2 drug personalities slain; firearms, shabu seized in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 29, 2017) - Several firearms and shabu were seized from two (2) drug personalities slain in an operation in Sulu on Wednesday (Sept. 27), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Alsidi Anji and Benjie Dumdaydi were neutralized in a law enforcement operation launched by joint elements of the Philippine Marine Ready Force Sulu and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Barangay Lambago, Luuk, Sulu at 1:50am Wednesday (Sept. 27).

Cpt Petinglay said that seized were a Garand rifle, 14 rounds of caliber .30 ball, shabu, and drug paraphernalia. Anji and Dumdaydi were slain after resisting arrest by the government forces. Their remains were turned over to Arafi Hajiron, a barangay kagawad of Tubig Putih, Luuk, Sulu, and were brought by their relatives to Barangay Bulangsih, Panamao, Sulu.

Operating troops are pursuing the group of a notorious drug pusher, identified as Jinar.

"The military will continue to assist law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal drug operations in the province. This is another accomplishment attributable to the combined efforts of our troops and the PDEA,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Meanwhile, at 6pm Wednesday, Zed Tan, a municipal councilor of Jolo, was abducted by the Ajang-Ajang group between the boundary of Barangays Timbangan and Tagbak, both in Indanan, Sulu, Cpt. Petinglay added.

The captors were riding a red Tamaraw jeep and proceeded towards the municipality of Talipao.

"All forces under the Joint Task Force Sulu immediately intensified checkpoints and intelligence monitoring,” said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

"As we speak, search and rescue operations are now being conducted to expedite the rescue of the victim,” he added.

Philippine Navy and Royal Australian Navy conduct joint maritime patrol at Sulu Sea

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 28, 2017) – The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conduct Passing Exercises (PASSEX), Communications and Electronics Exercise (COMMELEX) and joint maritime patrol at the vicinity of Sulu Sea from September 22-25, 2017, military official said.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina AFP, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), disclosed that Del Pilar Class Frigate BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF16) under the helm of Cmdr. Glen Z Dizon PN (GSC) and currently under the operational control of Naval Task Group-Tawi Tawi (NTG-TT) of Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) joins the exercise counterpart Her Majesty Australian Ship (HMAS) Parramatta of the RAN. The Defence Attaché, Australian Embassy, Capt. Bradley Ian White RAN, headed the delegation of HMAS Parramatta.

RADM Medina said that the exercise is designed to strengthen the defence relationship of both navies when it comes to the establishment of communications with each other while conducting joint maritime patrols in the region.

On September 13, 2017, Capt. White RAN had his second visit to the Commander, NFWM, Rear Adm. Rene V Medina AFP to personally coordinate his intention to conduct COMMELEX exercise and joint maritime patrol with the Philippine Navy in the Western Mindanao Region.

The exercise between the Philippine Navy and the Royal Australian Navy is embodied in the Code of Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES). The CUES is an agreement signed by 21 countries including the Philippines and Australia that limits the occurrence of incidents at sea and prevents the escalation of tensions between navies in agreement.

The NFWM and the Philippine Navy as a whole is assured that the strong defence relationship and continuous conduct of joint maritime patrols with the Royal Australian Navy will further improve its capabilities and service to the maritime nation especially in the Western Mindanao region where the exercise is being held, RADM Medina added.

Military Commanders Cross Retaken Bridges in Marawi

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (September 24, 2017) - At 10:00 AM Sunday (September 24), Major Generals Rolando Bautista and Danilo Pamonag, Commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi and Commander of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident respectively, crossed for the first time since the start of the Marawi seige, the Bayabao Bridge and the Masui Bridge, military official said.

These bridges were recently recovered and controlled by government forces from the Maute Terrorist Group that lay seige over this Islamic City. The two commanders were met on the other end of the bridge by Brigadier General Melquiades Ordiales, the Commander of the Joint Task Group Tiger.

According to Major General Bautista, this is a significant progress in the effort of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to defeat the terrorists, rescue the hostages, and regain control of the whole city. "The terrorists are now becoming desperate as our soldiers and police are closing in on their defensive positions. We are continuing our appeal to the terrorists to release their hostsges and for them to surrender," Major General Bautista added.

On its 125th day since the seige started, 151 soldiers and police have paid the ultimate sacrifice while 694 terrorists have been killed.

During his 5th visit to Marawi City last September 21, 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte said that "the end of the combat operation is just around the corner". Once the firefight is over, the daunting task of rehabilitation will proceed full blast.

Troops foil Abus' bomb plot in Zambo

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 24, 2017) - Government forces thwarted Abu Sayyaf members under top leader Furuji Indama from bombing the City of Zamboanga, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the combined forces of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga and the Zamboanga City Police Office launched a counter action against the group of Abu Sayyaf members Omar Askali, a.k.a. Ayub. The joint AFP-PNP Law Enforce Operation was conducted at Governor Lim Avenue in this city at around 10:30am Saturday (September 23).

"Intelligence reports revealed that the group will bomb public places in the city three days from now. This prompted our troops to conduct a joint operation with the police to capture the bandits and preempt their bomb ploy," said Colonel Leonel Nicolas, commander of the JTF Zamboanga.

Cpt Petinglay said that recovered from Askali were a hand grenade, a cellular phone, and two identification cards. Askali is a trusted follower of Indama. He is trained in manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices.

Further information disclosed that Mukaram Sapie, a.k.a. Mukram, and Shayif were sent by Indama to conduct bombing, she added.

In a follow-up operation, government forces also nabbed Mukram in Barangay Taluksangay on the same day. Recovered from Mukram was an IED and a Caliber .45 pistol. The area was still being searched for another IED since information from @Ayub revealed that Mukram was keeping two IEDs.

"Our successful offensives were complemented by the intensified conduct of intelligence operations and the strengthened collaboration with the police, thus preempting the bandits fron executing their terror plan. I commend the troops of the JTF Zamboanga for a job well done," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Follow-up operations are still ongoing.

Soldiers donate blood for Marawi battle casualties

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 24, 2017) - Soldiers of the Western Mindanao Command donated blood for battle casualties who are fighting at the forefront in Marawi City, military official said.

Personnel of the WestMinCom participated in the bloodletting activity held at the WestMinCom gymnasium in Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city at around 8am Saturday (September 23).

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the said bloodletting was organized by the Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Civil-Military Operations, OU7, to benefit the wounded soldiers and to commemorate the 11th founding anniversary of the WestMinCom. This was held in conjunction with the National Peace Consciousness Month observed every September under Proclamation No. 675.

Cpt. Petinglay said that among those who donated were soldiers of the Task Force Zamboanga, 54th ECBde, 3TOC, and Naval Forces Western Mindanao. The said activity was facilitated by personnel of the Zamboanga City Medical Center.

“This good deed bridges the lives of our wounded comrades who braved the battleground. Our gratitude goes to those who have donated blood for the sake of our battle casualties,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

PRO9 Awards Police Officers for Medalya ng Kasanayan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 19, 2017) - Six (6) Police Commissioned Officers were awarded with the PNP Efficiency Medal (Medalya ng Kasanayan) during the traditional Flag Raising Ceremony held at PRO9 Parade Ground, Camp Romeo Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City on Monday (September 18) in recognition of their exemplary performance and devotion to duty rendered as Summary Hearing Officers (SHO), official said.    

ZCPO-PRO9 information officer PCINSP HELEN L GALVEZ disclosed that the recipients of the award are PSUPT BENJAMIN B DE PERALTA, PCINSP HAZEL FERNANDEZ, PCINSP LEO P CASTILLO, PSINSP ALVIN F GUTIEREREZ, PINSP JUNAR C YAP and PINSP ALBERT A ACORIN.

PCINSP GALVEZ said that the above-mentioned Police Officers were awarded of such medal for their exemplary performance on the speedy resolution of the administrative cases handled by them within the prescribed period of sixty (60) days

PSSUPT EDWIN S DE OCAMPO, Deputy Regional Director for Administration, PRO9, said that the above-named Police Officers exemplifying their sterling leadership qualities and epitome of a true and dedicated public servant have earned honor and prestige, worthy of praise and emulation not only by their peers in particular but for the entire PNP, in general.

As part of the PRO9 Best Practices, five (5) Police Commissioned Officers and five (5) Police Non-Commissioned Officers including one (1) Non-Uniformed Personnel who were celebrating their birthday for the month of September were accorded with the traditional blowing of candle and the giving of individual cake and birthday greeting cards.

The activity was followed by “Kapihan sa PRO9”, wherein the awardees and members of the Command Group including the Directorial Staffs and other guests, gathered together at the PRO9 Conference Room for a coffee break, PCINSP GALVEZ added.

2 lawless elements slain in Zambo del Norte

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 19, 2017) - Two lawless elements were slain on Sunday (September 17) in a combat operation launched by the government forces in Zamboanga del Norte, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the combined elements of the 42nd Infantry Battalion under 1st Lieutenant Basyon and the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company conducted the operation to rescue kidnap victims and clear the areas from the presence of kidnap for ransom groups. Government troops encountered about 10 lawless elements led by Ustadz Kadjo Tungayaw in Barangay Panganuran, Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte at around 2pm Sunday (September 17).

Cpt. Petinglay said a 10-minute exchange of fire ensued, yielding to the neutralization of two lawless elements and the recovery of a Garand rifle, a Carbine automatic rifle, an improvised shotgun, several ammunition, camouflage uniform, and documents. Retrieved by the military and police were two cadavers that were subsequently turned over to barangay officials of Lambagoan, Sibuco after proper procedures were observed by the police.

“Our ground troops have intensified their combat operations in several municipalities of Zamboanga del Norte, particularly in Sibuco, Siocon, Sirawai, and Baliguian, since the kidnapping incident transpired in Labason in early September,” said Brigadier General Joselito Rolando Bautista, commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan.

Commander Kadjo was a former member of the Moro National Liberation Front. However, he was disowned by MNLF Commander Asbirin for coddling lawless and criminal elements in the area.

“The Joint Task Force ZamPeLan will continue their operations in Zamboanga Peninsula area to thwart any attempts by kidnap for ransom and lawless groups to incite violence,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Pursuit operations are continuously being conducted on the evading lawless elements," added LtGen Galvez.

4 Abus surrender to troops in Sulu, turned-over 4 Firearms

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 19, 2017) - Four Abu Sayyaf members under the late sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya laid down their arms in Sulu, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt. Joan D. Petinglay disclosed Aldin Hadil Akmad, 25, Willing Ibba Jaabal, 45, Ijal Samsain Sadjal, 25, and Emar Ladjar Udjah, 17, yielded to Lieutenant Colonel Jesse Montoya, commanding officer of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion, in Barangay Likod Pata, Pata Island, Sulu at 8:30pm of Saturday (September 16).

"Through the joint efforts of the 3rd Sulu Civilian Active Auxiliary Company and the Special Intelligence Team, Akmad and his companions decided to return to the fold of the law," said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

"The surrendered Abu Sayyaf members also turned-over an M16 rifle and three Garand rifles," added Sobejana.

“Documentation is currently being undertaken at the headquarters of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion in Talipao, Sulu."

Cpt. Petinglay said that at the start of the year, intensified conduct of focused military operations were directed to bring the defeat of the Abu Sayyaf, and with the offensives of the Joint Task Forces in the ZamBaSulta area, there were series of surrendered Abu Sayyaf members. As of this report the total number of surrendered Abu Sayyaf members in Sulu to 23.

"I commend the recent accomplishment of JTF Sulu under Brigadier General Sobejana," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command. "The unit is very successful in their coordinations and stakeholders engagements that yielded this positive result," added the WestMinCom Chief.

Cpt. Petinglay further said from January 2017 to this date, there are a total of 111 Abu Sayyaf members who surrendered to the troops in the joint area of operations of the WestMinCom. Of this, 65 yielded to the troops in Basilan, 23 in Sulu, 21 in Tawi-Tawi, and two in Zamboanga City,

"Our Joint Task Forces are committed in intensifying the offensives to neutralize the remaining Abu Sayyaf bandits, who are on the run now. This operational accomplishment is attributed to our soldiers on the ground who made this possible," added LtGen Galvez.

WestMinCom chief lauds JTFs’ efforts against Abus

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 17, 2017) - The Western Mindanao Chief Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., visited his ground troops in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi on Friday (Sep. 15), military official said.

Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. was given a briefing by the Commanders of JTF Sulu and Tawi-tawi pertaining to the current thrust and accomplishments of their respective units.

During the talk to the troops he said, "the series of combat operations launched by the Joint Task Forces have degraded the capability of the Abu Sayyaf Group."

"A number of milestones has been achieved by the very competent Commanders and hardworking units under WestMinCom."

LtGen. Galvez, Jr. also lauded the commitment of the soldiers, who battled the Abu Sayyaf bandits, for what they have accomplished to secure the ZamBaSulTa areas and prevent the provinces from becoming a haven of the terrorists.

Saying that the sustained operations have successfully thwarted the plans of the Abu Sayyaf, the WestMinCom chief added, “You have gone far and have even exceeded expectations in your effort to defeat the terrorists.”

Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, reported that: “We have interrelated operations that include combat, civil-military and intelligence to counter violent extremism. These are done in collaboration with the local government and the people of Sulu.”

As of the moment, there are 13 hostages held by the Abu Sayyaf in the hinterlands of Sulu.

LtGen. Galvez, Jr. also conferred the Wounded Personnel Medal to Corporal Munib Baid of the 35th Infantry Battalion. Baid is currently recuperating from wounds sustained during an armed confrontation with the Abu Sayyaf bandit in Indanan, Sulu last September 12.

During his visit to the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi in Barangay Sanga-Sanga, Bungao at around 10:30am Friday (Sept. 15), Brigadier General Custodio J. Parcon, Jr., Commander of the JTF Tawi-Tawi, reported to the ComWestMinCom the continuing offensives conducted in the province. He also presented their neutralized high-value targets in the past months.

“From these accomplishments, we are planning to continue harnessing our skills through training on the detection of Improvised Explosive Devices, sniping, and counter sniping and other capabilities," he added.

“We are also working with Indonesia and Malaysia so that we can establish interoperability through the creation of the Joint Task Force IndoMalPhi which will address cross-border kidnappings and piracy.”

Parcon also led LtGen Galvez in a tour of his camp facilities showcasing the readiness and tidiness of his headquarters.

"I am happy to know that you are doing well with your respective missions," said Lieutenant General Galvez, Jr.

"Tuloy lang ang laban. Isipin natin na mahirap man ang ating ginagawa dito, mas mahirap ang ginagawa at ang sitwasyon ng ating mga kasamahan sa Marawi."

"Aking hinihingi na ipagdasal nating lahat ang ating mga kasamahan upang sila at gabayan sa pang araw araw."

"As your Operational Commander, i am very satisfied and happy with what you have done. Your accomplishments are all commendable. You have indeed delivered outstanding accomplishments," the WestMinCom Chief added.

Last Monday, LtGen Galvez also visited the Joint Task Force Central headquarters in Maguindanao. A briefing update was presented to him by the command during his visit. Central is also doing well in their campaign against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and some lawless groups in the area.

5th Kalikasan GP3 Conference and EXPO

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (September 16, 2017 CNN PH) – The Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc., in coordination with the National Ecolabelling Programme Green Choice Philippines will again be hosting the Kalikasan GP3 Conference and Expo with the theme, “Advancing Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) in Addressing Climate Challenges” on September 19-22, 2017 at the Function Room 1, SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.

Provincial Director Maria Socorro M. Atay, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Zamboanga del Sur, said that now on its 5^th staging, the program will present a more robust platform of dynamic information sharing that will spur the promotion for green productivity, green consumerism, resource use efficiency and low carbon utilization to address climate change. In addition, the Philippines as regarded 6^th largest exporter of bamboo and rattan products, the event will also showcase the promotion and commercialization technologies for the manufacture of globally competitive engineered bamboo products and the advanced support for growing bamboo plantations.

Even better, His Excellency through the office of the Honorable Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea issued Memorandum Circular No. 23 – Authorizing the Participation of Government Agencies and Instrumentalities, which includes Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) and Local Government Units (LGUs) to attend the prestigious activity.

PD Atay added that in view of this, all interested entrepreneurs and LGU representatives are cordially invited to join the activity.

Team NavForWeM celebrates with San Nicolas Feast in Sirawai

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 14, 2017) - Naval Forces Western Mindanao ((NFWM) conducted a Community Outreach program in celebration of San Nicolas Feast in Sirawai, Zamboanga Del Norte last Saturday (Sept. 9, 2017).

 The Commander, NFWM Rear Adm. Rene V. Medina AFP, who is a native of Sirawai, Zamboanga Del Norte was represented by the Deputy Commander for Marine Operations, NFWM Col. Hernanie S. Songano PN (M) (GSC) along with the Team NavForWeM. The participating units were Naval Reserve Center—Western Mindanao (NRCen-WM), Civil Military Operations Unit- Western Mindanao (CMOU-WM), Camp Navarro Dental Dental Dispensary (CNDD), Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH), Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 (MBLT11) and the NFWM Combo. The team was welcomed by San Nicolas Brgy. Captain, Hon. Arthur B Delantar and other Barangay Officials. The community outreach was themed, "Kauban Nyo ang Inyong Navy sa Kalinaw ug Paglambo". The CMO initiatives strengthen the  Higher Headquarters development support and security plan, “Kapayapaan 2017-2022” in promoting peace, ensuring security, helping maintain public order and supporting the overall development initiatives of the government.

Rear Adm. Medina said that the Team NavForWeM offered free medical and dental consultation, Operation Tuli, Feeding Program, optical check-up with free eye glasses, free haircut and Film showing. Food packs and dental kit were also given. Moreover, the recruitment team provided information and assistance to those aspiring to join the Navy. The NFWM Combo was also there to entertain the citizens and their performance was supplemented by a dance number from the residents of Brgy. San Nicolas. The outreach program had been successful with the help of various stakeholders of NFWM namely, KCC Mall, Dr. Wee and Dr. Feliciano of Philippine Dental Association, Philippine Navy Savings and Loans Association Inc. (PNSLAI), Department of Health Region IX (DOH-R9), Universal Canning and Crystal Clear Vision Eye Center.

Last June 15, 2017, Team NFWM conducted its first Community Outreach in the Municipality in line with the celebration of “Araw ng Sirawai 2017” which benefitted 807 residents. The second visit of the command in Brgy San Nicolas adds to the joyful celebration of the Feast in the Barangay and has a total of 821 beneficiaries. The activity guaranteed the citizens that the Navy stands ready to provide necessary services and assistance to the community despite the current threat in Zamboanga Del Norte and NFWM Area of Responsibility.

2 Arrested Abductors of Labason Mayors’ Son Charged

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 14, 2017) - The Labason MPS has filed a case for Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention at the Fiscal’s Office in Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte at about 3:18 PM of September 11, 2017 against the two arrested suspects who were allegedly involved in the abduction of Jelster Ed “Jed” Quimbo y Tiu, the son of Mayor of Labason last September 6, 2017.

ZCPO-PRO9 information officer PCINSP HELEN L GALVEZ disclosed that the suspects identified as Soudi Pondusan Banguih, 36 years old, married and a resident of Barangay Danganon, Sirawai and Edilberto Sarmago Albino, 61 years old, married and a resident of Barangay Antonino, Labason, were arrested by the personnel of Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company at Poblacion, Sirawai, Zamboanga Del Norte at about 3:00 PM of September 7, 2017

PCINSP GALVEZ said that the identification of the suspects was based on the CCTV footage and confirmation by the witness who was with the victim during the incident where he positively identified the two (2) aforementioned suspects who were involved and companions of the abductors during the time of incident. Both suspects are presently detained at Labason MPS.

PR09 Awards Regional Anti-Cybercrime Office 9

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 11, 2017) - The personnel of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Office 9 awarded with PNP efficiency medal (Medalya ng Kasanayan) during the traditional Flag Raising Ceremony held at PRO9 Parade Ground, Camp Romeo Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City, Monday (September 11) in recognition for their meritorious performance in the successful arrest of certain Eric Abad Acain and rescued of two minors including the confiscation of several items such as eleven (11) sets of computers and eleven units of cellular phones.   

Recipients of the award are PCINSP JOEL C TUTTUH, SPO1 Charlene G Nabua, PO3 Mary Grace G Francisco, PO2 Art G Binas, PO1 Art Josef S Valdez and PO1 Jenny Ian L Kalayakan.

The above-mentioned PNP personnel awarded such medal for their exemplary performance and devotion to duty rendered during the conduct of joint operation in implementation of Search Warrant for Violation of Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (RA 10175) and Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition (RA 10591), which resulted in the successful arrest of the accused.

PCSUPT BILLY B BELTRAN, Regional Director, PRO9, lauded the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Office 9 for a job well done. He said that the above-named PNP personnel exemplifying sterling leadership qualities and epitome of a true and dedicated public servant have earned honor and prestige, worthy of praise and emulation not only by their peers in particular but for the entire PNP, in general.

Soldiers join Eid-ul Adha celebration in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (September 3, 2017) - More than a thousand evacuees in one of the Saguiaran evacuation centers received portions of beef meat on Saturday (Sep. 2) as Eid-ul Adha celebration continue.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the soldiers of the Western Mindanao Command specifically those from the Joint Task Group Tabang under Colonel Thomas Sedano arrived early at the said evacuation center to help in the butchering of about 15 cows. The meat of said cow will be later distributed to the evacuees after live cows will undergo 'sumbali' or ceremonial butchering by an Imam to make sure that the process is 'halal'.

Halal refers to what is permissible or lawful in traditional Islamic Law. It is frequently applied to permissible food and drinks, including animals that will be butchered.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the formal program started at 10am with Director Kim Edres, Head of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and Mayor Macmod Muti of Saguiaran attending. Also Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., the Commander of the Western Mindanao Command; Brigadier General Ramiro Rey, Commander of the Joint Task Group Ranao; Colonel Thomas Sedano, Commander of the Joint Task Group Tabang; and Colonel Romeo S Brawner, Jr., Deputy Commander of JTG Ranao were also present during the activity. Female soldiers were among the facilitators during the activity. They taught the kids with the peace clap, 'Kalilintad' or Peace songs and the let's go clap. Also, loot bags were distributed to the children after series of games participated by about 100 kids.

"I know the children are the ones most affected by war. It breaks my heart to see all these innocent children displaced from their normal lives," said LtGen Galvez.

"Hwag kayong mag-alala, malapit na kayong makauwi. Malapit na itong matapos. Sasamahan namin kayo hangang sa matapos ang krisis na ito," said LtGen Galvez addressing the evacuees who were also listening attentively.

"I would like to express my gratitude for the kindness extended by our generous host of the live cows the Integrated Center for Alternative Development (ICAD) Foundation led by Mr Ahmet M Bikec," added the WestMinCom Chief. "We will never forget your generosity. We will treasure this forever."

Cpt. Petinglay said that a total of 53 live cows were donated by the ICAD Foundation to the internally displaced families who are temporarily living in evacuation centers in Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, and Maguindanao. The cows were delivered to different evacuation centers starting last August 31, 2017 by the Joint Task Group Tabang.

"I also would like to thank the good Mayor of this municipality, Mayor Muti for his generous and caring heart."

"For three months now, his enthusiasm in helping and taking care of the evacuees whom he welcomed here in his municipality never faltered. In fact, he continually looked for means to make the lives of more than 4,000 evacuees lighter and less burdened," LtGen Galvez adds.

Meanwhile on Friday (September 1) morning, around 5,000 Islam followers from the City of Marawi joined the congregational prayer in celebration of the Eid-ul Adha at Mindanao State University Grandstand at 6 in the morning, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that the Maranaos were joined by Muslim soldiers and cops, who are at the forefront in retaking the besieged city from Daesh-inspired fighters, in observing the feast of sacrifice in spite of the crisis in Marawi City. Also in Zamboanga, Muslim soldiers and civilians congregated at the WestMinCom mosque in Bagong Calarian at around 6:15am Friday.

She further added that the said celebration was led by the Office of the Islamic Chaplain of the WestMinCom under Colonel Sanuan Akkuh. The Filipino-Turkish Tolerance School turned over at 2pm Friday, 100 bags of beef to the Command for distribution to indigent families living inside and outside Zamboanga City. Units deployed in other areas of WestMinCom also assisted and observed the very important Muslim holiday in their respective areas.

“The armed forces are one with our Muslim brothers and sisters from Marawi City in commemorating the holy sacrifice of Ibrahim. In observing the feast of sacrifice, we are one with the Maranaos, who face the ordeal, in wishing for the rehabilitation of the battle-stricken city,” said LtGen Galvez.

Team NAVFORWEM reaches out to the Community of Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 3, 2017) - Naval Forces Western Mindanao in collaboration with the Zamboanga City stakeholders and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Zamboanga Sibugay Province conducted a Community Outreach Program at Brgy. Solar, Poblacion Olutanga, Sibugay Province on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, military official said.

The Deputy Commander for Marine Operations, Col. Hernanie S. Songano PN (M) (GSC) was there to represent the Commander, NFWM Rear Adm. Rene V Medina AFP. Along with the Team NAVFORWEM were the Medical and Dental Team from Camp Navarro General Hospital and Dental Dispensary, Civil Military Operations Unit-Western Mindanao (CMOU-WM), Naval Reserve Center (NRCen) and Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 (MBLT11) who was welcomed by Mrs Nerie L Ruste, wife of Poblacion Olutanga Mayor, Hon. Arthur Ruste Sr. in the conduct of Community Outreach Mission with a theme, “Kauban Ninyo Ang Inyong Navy sa Kalinaw ug Paglambo”. The CMO initiatives is in support to Higher Headquarters’ development support and security plan “KAPAYAPAAN 2017-2022” promoting peace, ensuring security, helping maintain public order and supporting the overall development initiatives of the government.

The conduct of the community outreach was made possible by the following partner stakeholders of NFWM; YL Fishing, Lingkod Kapamilya Bantay Bata 163, E-Media, Coca-Cola, IPIL Integrated Provincial Head Office (IPHO), Department of Health Region IX (DOH-R9) and Armed Forces of the Philippines Savings and Loans Association Inc. (AFPSLAI). The services offered during the Mission where Medical and Dental Consultation, Feeding program, Free Haircut, Operation Tuli and Community Dialogue rendered by the representatives from Bantay Bata 163. NFWM also offered recruitment opportunities to the citizens of Olutanga who would like to serve the country under the Navy.

The visit of Team NAVFORWEM resolves some issues and health concerns of the citizens of Olutanga and serves as an assurance that they will always have the Navy to assist and provide their needs despite the threat in the Western Mindanao area.

NFWM renders honors to another hero of Marawi

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 3, 2017) – Fleet-Marine Team of Naval Forces Western Mindanao rendered funeral honors to the remains of the late Pfc. Robert R Bismar PN (M) who was hit by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in the morning of Aug. 31, 2017.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina AFP, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, disclosed that Pfc Robert R Bismar was a member of the 7th Marine Company (7MC) and reported to Marawi City on June 22, 2017. His squad was departing from one building to another to man and establish a defensive position against the enemy. At 12 o’clock in the afternoon of Aug. 28, 2017, a loud explosion in the location of Bismar was heard by his comrades and turned out that Bismar was hit by an IED set-up by the enemy.

The wounded Pfc. was immediately evacuated via civilian pick-up truck to the nearest Medical station at Lilod Madaya. However, he was then declared dead on arrival by his attending physician. His remains was turned over to his family in the morning of Aug. 31, 2017 right after the funeral honors and followed by the internment held at their residence in Upper Calarian, Zamboanga City.

NFWM and the Armed forces of the Philippines as a whole condoles with the family of the fallen soldiers who took up the challenge to serve and bring peace to the city of Marawi. Their dedication in serving the country will always be honored and remembered by the nation and the Filipino people, RADM Medina added.