5 NPA rebels surrender to the Marine Troopers in Sultan Kudarat

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (Martch 31, 2018) - Five members of the Communist Party of the Philippines New Peoples’ Army (CPP-NPA) Terrorist laid down their arms and surrendered to the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 on March 28, 2018 in Brgy. Keytodac, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, a military official from Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao said.

The military official disclosed that the former rebels of Guerilla Front 73 voluntary surrendered to Commanding Officer of MBLT2 Lieutenant Colonel Jose Marie Santos with the full support of Lebak Mayor Deonesio Besana.

The surrender of NPA also supported by the Keytodac, Dulangan Manobo Elders citing the resentful system of the NPA that are merely propagating lies to the Manobo Tribe in the towns of Lebak and Kalamansig.

The 5 rebel returnees were identified as Ariel Udas Apang, 29 years old, Iyoy Lebeg Nayam, 31 years old, Nicanor Nayam Apang, 38 years old, Ariel Matog Apang, 36 years old, from Brgy Keytodak, Lebak and Brgy Sabanal, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

According to the former rebels, they realized that their group no longer follows a clear direction and ideology making most of them dissatisfied of their leaders. Further, they revealed that they have noticed that those who have surrendered ahead were treated well by the government forces.

Apang and his companions turned over one Caliber .30 M1 carbine, one 9MM improvised Uzi, one fragnmentation hand grenade and two Improvised Explosive Devices upon their surrender.

In a statement, Major General Arnel Delavega, the commander of the Joint Task Force Central said that they will continue to intensify the combat operations and intensify information disseminations to encourage those who are still with the rebel/terror group to surrender and to give peace a chance.

“We will continue to welcome those who wish to embrace peace.

The President’s guidance to immediately accept and process those who surrender is very clear,” MGen. Arnel Delavega said.

“As soldiers, it is also our fervent desire to have peaceful communities in the entire country, but if our enemies opt to fight, then we are very ready.”

“I would like to congratulate the MBLT2 for convincing this group to surrender peacefully,” MGen Delavega added.

Gov’t troops captures ASG subleader in Sulu clash

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (March 31, 2018)  – The troops the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division encountered members of the Abu Sayaff Group in Brgy Taung, Patikul, Sulu, 7:15am today March 31.

Division Public Affairs Office Chief Maj. Ronald E. Suscano said  the operating troops of 32nd Infantry Battalion led by 1LT Primo A. Passion (OS) PA were conducting clearing operation at the vicinity of the said area when they clashed with 5 Abu Sayaff Group (ASG) under Walton Juljirin.

Commanding Officer of the 32IB LTC Ronaldo C. Mateo, INF (GSC) PA, also said that the enemy were reportedly at the house of the 6 wounded ASG Walton when the troops encountered the enemy. The firefight lasted for 5 minutes.

LTC Mateo disclosed that 4 ASG were able to escape from the said firefight while Walton was left behind due to his ill health condition brought about by infected wound incurred during the previous encounter with the government forces which he participated. The said ASG attempted to escape but the troops immediately ran after him, he added.

He said after the firefight, the troops recovered from  the house of ASG member Walton 1 cal 7.62 FN-G1 rifle, 1 magazine with ammunitions, a suspected IED and 2 hand grenades.  No casualties from the government side.

“The cooperation of the civilians who reported the armed group’s presence in their area is a strong manifestation that civilians have long been tired of these ASG’s terroristc activities and now actively helping the military locate them to contribute for the total elimination of all terrorists in the Province of Sulu,” LTC Mateo commented.

PAS, DND Abu Sayyaf nears eventual collapse

PAGADIAN CITY (March 29, 2018) - “The surrender of notorious Abu Sayyaf leader Nhurhassan Jamiri and his entire group after successful negotiations and military operations, will hopefully bring the eventual collapse of the ASG in Basilan, restore peace and order in the province, and bring justice to the death of thousands of soldiers, who sacrificed their lives to protect our people.” This was the statement of Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana of the Department of National Defense after receiving the news of Jamiri’s surrender from Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, at 9:00 am yesterday, 28 March 2018.

Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Nhurhassan Jamiri surrendered along with 13 of his followers to soldiers of Joint Task Force Basilan, composed of the 3rdScout Ranger Battalion, 8th and 9th Scout Ranger Companies, 104th Infantry Brigade; 74th Infantry Battalion and 14LAC.

The group also turned over 10 high-powered firearms, 40 assorted ammunition magazines, 651 pieces of live ammunition, a MK52 fragmentation grenade, and eight bandoleers.

The high-powered firearms consisted of seven M16 rifles, an M4 carbine, an M653 rifle, and an M14 rifle.

"From the rendezvous area, all the troops along with the ASG surrenderers exfiltrated towards the headquarters of the 9th Scout Ranger Company and the 104Bde in Tabiawan, Isabela City," said Brigadier General Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan commander.

“The surrenderees are currently undergoing custodial debriefing,” Brig. Gen. Uy added. In his report to WestMinCom, Brig. Gen. Uy said that coordination with the police is also being undertaken for the necessary legal procedures.

"This surrender only proves that with the President’s strategic guidance, our relentless offensives on the ground and our diplomatic approach are effective in defeating the Abu Sayyaf bandits and in addressing the internal aggression in ZamBaSulTa area," said LtGen. Galvez.

 “Following Jamiri’s surrender, we expect the other top leaders of the Abu Sayyaf to do the same in the upcoming days,” added the WestMinCom chief.

The series of surrenders is attributed to strategic leadership and sincerity of the Duterte Administration to solve the problem in Mindanao coupled with the strong cooperation between the LGU, AFP, PNP with the active participation of the affected communities.

During his visit to Patikul, Sulu, on March 26, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte emphasized that he will give the Abu Sayyaf surrenderees the chance at a new life.

He also asked them to help him make Mindanao peaceful during his term.

 “I don’t abhor you (Abu Sayyaf members) because I understand the situation.

As the president, I want to help you, but first, help me bring peace for the Moros in Mindanao.

I am the only president that has a heart for the Muslims. All those who want to surrender are welcome but those who want to fight, know that the government is ready,” President Duterte said.

Just two days after the President’s visit and pronouncement, an Abu Sayyaf member surrendered in Tawi-tawi and another did the same in Sulu.

“The surrender of Jamiri’s unit was a result of an inter-agency collaboration of our security forces and strong support of local government units which facilitated the negotiations,” Sec. Lorenzana said.

Sec. Lorenzana, lauded in particular, the efforts of Usec. Reynaldo B. Mapagu, Undersecretary of Defense for Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs, as well as key security stakeholders of Basilan Province, including Gov. Jim Hataman, Vice Mayor Cherilyn Akbar of Isabela City, and Ustadz Hud Limaya, deputy commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Jamiri is the overall ASG commander operating in Tuburan, Albarka, Tipo-tipo, Akbar, Mohamad Adjul and Lamitan City.

He is also the Operations Officer and Chief of the Urban Terrorist Group of Basilan. His group gained notoriety for carrying out the 2002 Fort Pilar Bombing in Zamboanga City, 2007 ambush of marine troops in Albarka, which left 24 dead Marines, the death of 19 Special Forces students in Cambug, Albarka, and the 2001 Lamitan Siege.

The Jamiri Group was also involved in hosting the Sulu-based ASG, which conducted seajacking and kidnapping of Vietnamese vessels and sailors crossing the Basilan Strait.

Its members also perpetrated several IED attacks in the cities of Isabela, Lamitan, Zamboanga, as well as kidnapping-for-ransom and extortion activities in Basilan province.

This development brings the total number of ASG surrenderers to 216, of whom 100 were from Basilan, which has served as the operational base of the ASG since 1995.

“Our various efforts at forging peace with various armed groups under the leadership of President Duterte are now reaping success. We hope this will continue to gain momentum in order to achieve peace without any bloodshed,” Secretary Lorenzana added. (By JONG CADION with WesMinCom PR)

STATEMENT OF PEACE ADVISER RE MEETING BETWEEN THE PRESIDENT AND MILF LEADERS LAST NIGHT IN DAVAO CITY

(“If this does not get done during the presidency of President Duterte, we seriously doubt if we can do it at all, in the future. President Duterte is now our only and last card.”)

— Kagi Al Haj Murad

March 27, 2018

Upon request of the MILF leaders, President Duterte met with them in Matina Enclaves last night in Davao City. Secretary Adelino Sitoy of the presidential legislative liaison office (PLLO) and I joined the president and Special Assistant to the president Bong Go.

This is part of the previously agreed arrangement that there will be periodic and regular meeting of both sides as efforts for the eventual passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) are underway in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

President Duterte reiterated to them his continuing and consistent desire and commitment to install the enhanced government structure and governance that will hopefully solve the root causes of the moro rebellion and address the historical injustice suffered by the bangsamoro over generations.

The President said he would assist even to the extent of relaying to both chambers of Congress his determination to help push for the passage of the BBL that is compliant with the comprehensive agreement of the bangsamoro and as close as possible to the new draft law submitted by the bangsamoro transition commission.

In the event this does not take place in Congress, he said he would go to the extent of even exercising his residual powers thru administrative directives to fulfil this commitment.

The timely meeting yesterday also dispelled negative speculations following the visit of President Duterte the other day in Jolo, Sulu where he told the Tausogs that he would meet with moro leaders at the soonest possible time due to reported opposition of some bangsamoro leaders (in Sulu, Basilan & Tawi-tawi) to the BTC-crafted BBL. He again stressed the “inclusive” character of the new BBL where all tribes and sectors, including non- Muslims will benefit from the new BBL when it is finally entrenched.

During the meeting former President Gloria Arroyo in a phone conversation with me and Kagi Murad, committed to support the BTC-drafted version that Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez authored. She said she would withdraw authorship of her previously signed bill to fast track the approval of the new version. Senate sub-Committee chair Senator Miguel Zubiri, who was then in London also said the Senate would act on the bill before Congress adjourns “sine die” on May 15 this year.

Kagi Aj Haj Murad of the MILF said they never doubted the sincerity of President Duterte in his commitments.

“If this does not get done during the presidency of President Duterte, we seriously doubt if we can do it at all, in the future. President Duterte is now our only and last card,”

Kagi Murad said.

President RR Duterte and Peace adviser Jess Dureza

Two Abu Sayyaf surrenders to troops of WestMinCom

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (March 28, 2018) - As President Duterte received 76 Abu Sayyaf surrendered on Tuesday (March 27) in Sulu and another notorious Abu surrendered to Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi Commander Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, in Brgy Sanga-Sanga, Bongao, Tawi-tawi at 10am Tuesday (March 27), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) PIO Cpt Jo-Ann D Petinglay disclosed that the soldiers of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 9 successfully facilitated the surrender of Rizal Karaman, a cohort of the late KFRG leader Butchoy Hassan. Karaman also turned over his cal .30 garand rifle to the soldiers upon his surrender. He was subjected to a medical checkup to ensure that any medical conditions be given attention.

Cpt Petinglay also said that on March 26, Abu Sayyaf member Alnijul Caray Aspi, a.k.a. Misang also surrendered to Lieutenant Colonel Ronaldo Mateo of the 32nd Infantry Battalion at the headquarters in Barnagay Bon-Bon, Patikul, Sulu. Aspi, 24 years old and a resident of Barangay Lipunos, Parang, Sulu, is a follower of ASG sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan, a.k.a. Apoh Mike. He also turned over an M1 Garand (Springfield) rifle. Aspi underwent a custodial debriefing conducted by the JTF Sulu troops.

From January 1, 2017 to March 27, 2018, a total of 204 Abu Sayyaf members yielded to the Joint Task Forces in the joint area of operations, 85 of whom surrendered in Basilan, 80 in Sulu, 37 in Tawi-Tawi, and two in Zamboanga City, she added.

“This only manifests the progress that we are attaining in our all-out offensives to defeat the Abu Sayyaf Group in ZamBaSulTa area, particularly in the province of Sulu, and we are elated to have the support of Suluanons,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command. “We believe that, in time, we will bring about the peace and development in Sulu.”

“The President’s message is very clear, he will be open to accept Abusayyaf surrenderers if they decide to do such and they will be made to undergo programs that are similar to that of the enhanced CLIP of the NPA surrenderers,” added LtGen Galvez.

A hundred crew-served and high powered firearms handed over to military in Maguindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (March 28, 2018) - Another 106 firearms were voluntarily handed over by officials and locals of four municipalities in Maguindanao Province to the Joint Task Force Central on March 26 and 27, 2018, military official said.  

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) PIO Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay

said that while President Duterte was in Sulu to receive hundreds of unregistered armaments and Abu Sayyaf rebel returnees, Major General Arnel Delavega, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and his subordinate commanders also received 100 armaments from the officials of Mamasapano, Pagalungan and Datu Montawal Municipalities.

At 9am Monday (March 26), thirteen (13) barangays of Mamasapano, Maguindanao headed by the Municipal Mayor, Hon Tahirodin Benzar A Ampatuan voluntarily surrendered 25 assorted firearms to 40th Infantry Battalion in a simple ceremony at the Municipal Hall of Mamasapano. The event was witnessed by the Officers and personnel of Mamasapano Municipal Police Station (MPS) together with DILG personnel headed by Mr Ricardo Padulino, other local officials and residents of the said municipality. The LGU of Pagalungan headed by Municipal Mayor, Hon Salik Mamasabulod also surrendered 45 assorted unregistered firearms to 7IB and 602Bde before noon time the same day. In the afternoon, Mayor Montawal of Datu Montawal municipality also turned-over 30 assorted loose firearms.

Cpt Petinglay further said that the following armaments that were surrendered were listed as follows: two 60mm mortars; two M16 rifles with attached M203 GL; 17 M14 rifles; 15 cal 50 Barret (HM); 12 M1 Garand rifles; two 5.56mm Ultimax rifles; four cal 30 M1 Carbines; one cal 30 Springfield rifle (bolt action); one cal .45 pistol; three M79 grenade launchers; five Rocket Propelled Grenade Launchers; 12 40mm Grenade Launchers; three cal .45 (HM) KG9 machine pistol; one 9mm (HM) Uzi machine pistol; one cal .45 (HM) Uzi machine pistol; one Winchester pistol; 17 12-gauge shotguns; and one baby (HM) Thompson.

Tuesday (March 27) at 9:15 AM, 6 armaments including one mortar were turned over by officials of Shariff Aguak Municipality to Lieutenant Colonel Enrique Clement.

Municipal Mayor Marouf Ampatuan led the turnover of one 60mm mortar; one M79 grenade launcher; one M4 carbine rifle; one barret; one uzi, and one Ingram pistol to the authorities.

“Units took custody of the surrendered firearms and were brought to their respective headquarters for initial inventory, documentation, and safekeeping,“ said Major General Arnel Delavega.

“We will continue to work convincing others to surrender their undocumented firearms in the entire Joint Task Force Central’s area of operations.”

The surrender of firearms is part of the “Balik Baril” Program initiatives of the local government of Maguindanao amid the intensified campaign of the AFP against proliferation of loose firearms in the implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao. For 2018 alone, a total of 293 undocumented firearms were already turned over to the authorities in Maguindanao Province, Cpt Petinglay added.

“We would like to reiterate our call to all peace loving people of Western Mindanao to cooperate in the President’s campaign to clear the country of undocumented firearms,” said Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“You decide the soonest while you can still be free from the legal liabilities. Once the probation period is over, you will be legally charged if firearms are recovered in your possession.”

“Since we started this campaign, we know that the number handed over will just comprise 10percent of the entire number of loose FAs in the entire Western Mindanao.”

“Decide now and become a part of the effort to bring peace in Mindanao and in the entire country,” added LtGen Galvez.

PRO 9 Turned Over 4 PNP Patrol Vehicle to Field Units

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (March 28, 2918) - In order to enhance police visibility and mobility in the various anti-crime operations in the region, the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9) has turned-over brand new Mobile Police Vehicles to the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9 (RMFB9) and three Provincial Mobile Force Company in the area of responsibility during the simple ceremony right after the Monday flag raising ceremony at PRO9 Quadrangle, Camp Col. Romeo A Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City on March 26, 2018.

PRO 9 Public Information Officer Chief P/Chief Inspector Helen L. Gavez said the PNP vehicles described as 4x4 Toyota Hilux were turned over by  Deputy Regional Director for Administration Police Chief Supt. Edwin S De Ocampo to the Battalion Commander of RMFB9 and Company Commanders of Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Public Safety Company, Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company and Zamboanga Del Sur Provincial Public Safety Company.

PCSUPT De Ocampo encouraged the recipients to take good care and maintain the newly-issued vehicles to enable them to serve better the community.

The distribution of new patrol vehicles is part of the continued effort of the Philippine National Police to upgrade the facilities and equipments of the local police forces to support its field operations under the Capability Enhancement Program (CEP) of the PNP Integrated Transformation Program - Performance Governance System (ITP-PGS), otherwise known as Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding the Rule of Law or PNP Patrol Plan 2030, Chief Inspector Gavez added

PSUPT Marlou N Labares, Chief of Regional Chaplain Service 9 formally officiated the blessing rites of the new vehicles. Aside from the vehicles, the four (4) mobile forces company also received Twenty (20) Global Positioning System (GPS) and Fifty (50) night vision goggles,  PRO 9 PIO Chief also said.

Police Regional Office 9 is awarded as “Silver Eagle”

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (March 28, 2018) - The Police Regional Office 9 (PRO 9) is now a Performance Governance System (PGS) proficient after receiving a “Silver Eagle Award” during the conferment of PGS Proficient' Status Ceremony held at the National Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City on March 26, 2018.  

PRO 9 Public Information Officer Chief P/Chief Inspector Helen L. Gavez said the PRO9 garnered a rating of 94.08 percent for satisfactorily completing the mandatory requirement for the third stage of the PGS who then evaluated the performance of police units in the entire country.

        

Chief Inspector Gavez added that some of the notable persons that administered the conferment of Performance Governance System (PGS) 'Proficient' Status to PRO9 are PNP Chief Police Director General Ronald Dela Rosa, Commissioner Rogelio Casurao, Vice Chairman and Executive Officer of NAPOLCOM Mr. Prudencio Gesta, Chairman of the National Advisory Group for Police Transformation and Development (NAGPTD), the PNP Command Group, and PCSUPT Noel Baraceros, Director of the Center for Police Strategy Management.

PRO9 Regional Director Police Chief Supt. Billy B Beltran expressed his gratitude to the PRO9 Regional Advisory Council for their support and contribution to PRO9. He promised to continue what PRO9 had started and vowed strengthen the PNP’s resolve to fight criminality and ensure safety of the community through the strict implementation of Project Double Barrel: Reloaded and compliance to the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030.

The PNP PGS comprises of four stages which include initiation, compliance, proficiency and institutionalization with the end-purpose of addressing organizational dysfunctions and improve the quality of the delivery of police services in the country. It also aims to strengthen law enforcement capabilities and to enhance the welfare and benefits of PNP personnel.

In the proficiency evaluation process, the Strategic Readiness Test, Performance Audit and Unit Revalida were conducted focusing on the alignment of the activities, projects, and initiatives to the strategy.

Philippines: Continuing the fight against TB in prisons

MANILA (ICRC-March 28, 2018) –Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern in the Philippines, which remains among the most affected countries in the world. The country’s overcrowded places of detention are particularly exposed to the disease. However, in New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, some significant gains have been made in the fight to eliminate TB among inmates.

In collaboration with the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) launched a pilot project at NBP in 2013 aimed at improving TB control strategies.

Through the project, more than 50,000 detainees were screened for TB. Around 2,800 of them with active TB, including 219 detainees with drug-resistant TB, were identified and enrolled for the treatment. Over 1,700 patients were cured, and the TB mortality rate dropped from 157 deaths to 112 per 100,000 people. The prison achieved the national and World Health Organization’s target of 90 percent success rate in treatment of drug-susceptible TB cases.

On 20 March 2018, this pilot project, which is also intended to serve as a model for other detention facilities to enhance their TB program implementation, was officially handed over to BuCor for continuance. Speaking on behalf of the TB Treatment Unit, Dr. Maria Cecilia Villanueva was confident about the way forward: “I know that our TB team will continue to do our best.”

“There are areas that require strong focus, such as screening upon entry in the Reception and Diagnostic Center, as it would allow us to efficiently diagnose inmates and give them the treatment they need at the earliest possible time. We now have the equipment and skills to do that,” Villanueva added.

Owing to this collaboration, the NBP TB staff work in a renovated and functional treatment unit. It contains fully equipped offices, clinic, pharmacy, TB laboratory, and a 200-bed-capacity isolation dormitory with patients’ access to open air and gardening.

On the occasion of World TB Day on 24 March, the ICRC affirms its commitment to continue its mobilization efforts to ensure access to quality TB care in detention.

“We believe that collaboration among the authorities and external partners is the best way forward in order for the Philippines to be TB-free by 2035,” said Dr. Kester Maniaul, TB in detention program manager of the ICRC.

“TB in detention facilities is a serious public health issue. The gains we see now may not be substantial to eliminate TB among inmates sooner unless overcrowding, which contributes to the rapid spread of this preventable disease, and issues such as the overall lack of human resources in jails and prisons are addressed,” Maniaul added.

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial, and independent humanitarian organization whose exclusive humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence, and to provide them with assistance.

In the Philippines, looking after the rights of people detained in relation to armed conflicts in the past three decades, the ICRC has been visiting detention facilities across the country to monitor the conditions and treatment of detainees. And whenever necessary, it also supports the authorities in their efforts to address the causes of jail overcrowding and carries out projects to improve inmates’ living conditions and their access to health care, water, and sanitation. (By J.D. Cadion with ICRC PR)

For further information, please contact:

Allison Lopez (in Manila), mobile: 0908 868 6884

Heidi Anicete (in Manila), mobile: 0928 504 7648

or visit our website: www.icrc.org/ph

Nat'l gov’t backs ARMM’s reintegration program for former ASG members

COTABATO CITY (March 28, 2018) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) government’s reintegration program for Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) returnees has received a positive message of support from National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

Sec. Lorenzana said the national government would support the ARMM’s reintegration program. The statement came after the program delivered positive results from its initial interventions.

The Defense secretary, along with Alexander Macario, assistant secretary for peace and order of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), attended the ARMM’s Regional Peace and Order Council meeting on Thursday, March 21, at the Western Mindanao Command Camp in Zamboanga City.

The reintegration program dubbed Program against Violence and Extremism (PAVE), was initiated by ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman’s office. PAVE is designed to provide opportunities to members of the ASG who surrendered and returned to the fold of law for reintegration in society. The program is expected to result in more ASG members surrendering in the coming months.

A total of 173 former Abu Sayyaf members from the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi have recently surrendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), or to their local government units (LGUs). John Louie Balagot, cabinet secretary of the ARMM Governor’s Office and current PAVE manager, said the ASG members must also give up their firearms upon surrendering.

Balagot added a series of interventions were piloted involving the 89 returnees from Basilan since July 2017. The interventions include psychosocial sessions, medical check-ups, introduction to farming systems, and expository tours outside the island provinces, which are designed to usher the complete reformation of the former combatants into decent and productive members of society.

The returnees will also be provided with farm implements as livelihood support and housing from the ARMM-Bangsamoro Regional Inclusive Development with Growth and Equity Program. “After hearing Sec. Lorenzana’s support, we will be able to expand and enhance our program to deliver more services to the returnees,” Balagot added.

Assistant Secretary Macario said the national government, through the DILG, is also making a reformation program dedicated to the ASG. “We commend the regional government for the initiatives it has taken to stabilize peace and order in ARMM,” Asec. Macario said.

In the coming months, the returnees from Sulu and Tawi-Tawi will undergo interventions similar to those in Basilan. In Sulu, there were 61 returnees, and 23 in Tawi-Tawi. PAVE has been running in cooperation with LGUs in Basilan, AFP Joint Task Force, Basilan provincial government, Basilan Young Leaders Program, Nagdilaab Foundation, Inc., and Eisenhower Fellows Association of the Philippines. (By J.D. Cadion with reports from Bureau of Public Information)

City PNP tightens security measures on this holy week

Click below to read relaated article

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1030352

By Jong D. Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY (March 28, 2018) – The Pagadian City Police Station tightened security measures on this holy week celebration particularly in the catholic churches in this city.

City Police Chief PSupt. Benito O. Recopuerto disclosed that he declared Red-alert in the entire city to prevent criminalities during the religious activities.

 PSupt. Recopuerto requested the public particularly the motorists and the riding public to have patience and cooperation during the conduct of checkpoint by the police operatives along the national highway going in and out to the city proper.

He also established Police Assistance Desk and increases police visibility in the Integrated Bus Terminal, Malls, Shopping Centers, Public Market and City Plaza, the City Police Chief said.

PSupt. Recopuerto also requested all the urban barangays chairs to involve in the monitoring against lawless elements within their area of responsibilities thru their barangay tanods and report immediately to the police authorities for appropriate action.

PSupt. Recopuerto said the PNP Provincial Mobile Force and the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion augmented the city police operatives in conducted checkpoint.

81 loose FAs handed-over by Lanao del Sur residents to authorities in just in three days

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (March 21, 2018) - Residents and officials of Western Mindanao is in full throttle to support President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s campaign to eliminate and recover all loose and undocumented firearms.

Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) information officer Capt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that recently 81 high-powered and low-powered firearms were voluntarily handed-over by residents and officials of three municipalities of Lanao del Sur to Tabak Division Chief Brigadier General Roseller Murillo, commander, Joint Task Force Zampelan.

Capt. Petinglay said 54 firearms were voluntary turned-over by residents of Lumba Bayabao and Masiu all of Lanao del Sur  in a simple ceremony in the town halls of both municipalities last March 24, 2018.

“This endeavor was made possible through the continuous collaboration of our infantry units and the local chief executives of Lumba Bayabao and Masiu municipalities relative to the national campaign against loose FAs,” said Major General Murillo.

Capt. Petinglay said also attending the activities were officials of the municipality and the commander of 49th Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Allan Villanueva.

The FAs composed of cal 5.56 rifles; 7.62 rifles; cal .30 M1 and M2 carbine rifles; shot guns; cal .45 pistols; cal .38 pistols; cal .357 pistols; and cal .22 pistols, Capt. Petinglay added.

He also said that just yesterday (March 26) at 6 in the morning, another 27 loose firearms were also handed over by the people of Maguing, Lanao del Sur to commander of 63rd Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Rizaldo Laurena.

The FAs include one cal .30 Machine Gun; three cal .30 M1 carbine rifles; 11 M16 5.56 rifles; one M4 5.56 rifle; two M14 rifles (one with scope); five shot guns; and five 9mm Ingram pistol/uzi, the military official said.

In a statement, MGen Murillo said that the firearms were immediately transported to the military camps for documentation and checking.

“These (firearms) will eventually be subject for demilitarization similar on what we did to the recovered firearms in Marawi in order to prevent the use deadly weapons in committing crimes and lawless violence,”

he disclosed.

As of March 26, the firearms that were surrendered to JTF Zampelan already reached 162. Based on the previous reports, the first batch of turn overed firearms accounted for 43 from Piagapo Municipality last March 18 and 11 from Lumbatan Municipality last March 18.

For the entire Western Mindanao Area of Operations, a total of 1,304 firearms were already handed over to the security forces with the following breakdown: 179 from Joint Task Force Central; 185 from Joint Task Force Zampelan; 222 from Joint Task Force Zamboanga; and 718 from Joint Task Force Sulu.

“In line with the pronouncement of our President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the campaign against loose firearms was launched by the entire Western Mindanao Command through our Joint Task Forces to implement the Security, Governance and Development Strategies of Martial Law in Mindanao,” said WesMinCom commander Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr.

“We would like to urge other officials and residents to do the same in order to free communities from these menacing tools of violence.”

“If those who have already handed-over their firearms can do their share and have shown of their commitment to a peaceful community, there will be no reason for others to do the same,” added LtGen Galvez.(With WesMinCom PR)

76 Abu surrenders, 652 loose firearms presented to President Duterte

PAGADIAN CITY (March 27, 2018) - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte received loose and undocumented firearms and Abu Sayyaf surrenderees in Patikul, Sulu yesterday (March 26).

Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) information officer Capt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that during the ceremony, military commanders led by WesMinCom Commander Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., presented 652 firearms to the President.

Capt. Petinglay said that also attended the turn-over ceremony were Sulu Local Government Units headed by Governor Abdusakur “Toto”Tan II and the Municipal LGUs, Mayor Hatta Berto of Pandami Municipality, Mayor Arthur Muksan of Siasi, Mayor Al-Frazier Abdurajak of Panamao, Mayor Allayon Arbison of Luuk, Mayor Hadar Hajiri of Lugus, Mayor Nasser Daud of Tapul, Mayor Benshar Estimo of Panglima Estimo, Mayor Amilhamja Taib of Pangutaran, Mayor Abraham Burahan of Panglima Tahil, Mayor Peping Halun of Kalingalan Caluang, Mayor Whajid Sahidulla of Tongkil, Mayor Madzhar Loong of Parang, and residents of the province.

Capt. Petinglay disclosed that the 652 firearms yielded in Sulu consisted of 9 Caliber .50 machine guns, 3 Caliber .30 machine guns, 4 units of 81mm mortars, 5 units of 60mm mortars, 2 units of 90mm recoilless rifles, a 57mm recoilless rifle, 5 units of Barret sniper rifles, a Rocket-Propelled Grenade/B40, an M60 Machine Gun, 138 units of M16A1 rifles, 31 units of M14 rifles, 373 units of M1 Garand rifles, 14 units of M2 Carbine rifles, 7 units of AK47 rifles, 26 units of M79 Grenade Launchers, 6 units of M203 Grenade Launchers, 9 BARs, 6 G1/FAL, a shotgun, 3 KG9, 6 Caliber .45 Pistols, and a Caliber .38 pistol.

Of the 652 loose firearms presented to President Duterte yesterday, 332 were yielded to the JTF Sulu in earlier this year, while 320 firearms were turned over by the local officials to the troops in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu on March 24, Capt. Petinglay said.

Capt. Petinglay also said that the Local officials on March 24 turned over three 81mm mortars, a 60mm mortar, a 90 recoilless rifle, two Caliber .50 HMG, a Caliber .30 LMG, an M60 GPMG, a K3 SAW, 49 M14 7.62mm rifles, 141 M16A1 5.56mm rifles, three M4/R4A3 5.56mm rifles, 14 M653 5.56mm rifles, 14 M203 Grenade Launchers, 174 M1 Garand rifles, seven Caliber .30 Carbine rifles, an AK-47 7.62mm Kalashnikov rifle, an FN FAL 7.62mm, 15 M79 Grenade Launchers, a Barret, three BAR Caliber .30 rifles, two G-1/Sig 7.62mm rifles, 21 Caliber .45 pistols, a Caliber .38 revolver, a Caliber .22 rifle, four KG9 9mm Uzi, and two shotguns.

Governor Tan turned over six firearms consisting of a Caliber .30 Light Machine Gun, a 57mm RL, a Caliber .50 Heavy Machine Gun, a Rocket-Propelled Grenade 7, a 60mm Mortar, and a Barret.

Mayor Berto yielded 31 firearms composed of a Caliber .50 heavy machine gun, five M16 rifles, an M203 Grenade Launcher, six M14 rifles, three G1 rifles, and 15 Caliber .30 Garand rifles.

Mayor Muksan handed over 51 firearms consisting of 35 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, four M14 rifles, a BAR, two Carbine rifles, two M79 Grenade Launchers, five M16 rifles, a FAL, and a Caliber .50 Heavy Machine Gun.

Mayor Abdurajak yielded 35 firearms, consisting of 11 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, two BAR, 16 M16 rifles, three M79 Grenade Launchers, an M14 rifle, a FAL, and a Caliber .50 HMG.

Mayor Arbison turned over 44 firearms composed of 13 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, two M14 rifles, 15 M16 rifles, an M60 rifle, a 90 Recoilless Rifle, two Caliber .50 HMGs, seven AK47, an 81mm mortar, an M203 Grenade Launcher, and an M79 Grenade Launcher. Mayor Hajiri yielded 23 firearms composed of three Carbine rifles, 17 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, and three Barrets.

Mayor Daud yielded an M16 rifle and 15 Caliber .30 Garand rifles.

Mayor Estino turned over 23 firearms composed of five M16 rifles, nine Caliber .30 Garand rifles, four M14 rifles, two M79 Grenade Launchers, a BAR, a 60mm Mortar, and a Barret.

Mayor Taib handed over 31 rifles consisting of 25 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, an M14 rifle, an M16 rifle, an M203 Grenade Launcher, and three M79 Grenade Launchers. Mayor Burahan yielded 10 Caliber .30 Garand rifles.

Mayor Halun turned over 14 rifles composed of a Caliber .50 HMG, a 60mm mortar, 11 Caliber .30 Garand rifles, and an M16 rifle.

Mayor Sahidulla yielded 35 firearms consisting of two M79 Grenade Launchers, an M203 Grenade Launcher, two M16 rifles, six Carbine rifles, two BAR, and 22 Caliber .30 Garand rifles.

Mayor Loong handed over a Caliber .50 HMG.

 For this year alone, a total of 1,079 loose firearms were yielded to and recovered by the Joint Task Forces under the WestMinCom in the joint area of operations.

“This showcases the harmonious relationship and trust built between local government units and the security sector as principal actors in building peaceful and progressive communities in Mindanao amid our sustained campaign to end lawless violence and demilitarize armed groups in the regions. Notwithstanding this success, we will continue to employ a diplomatic approach in calling for the involvement of local officials and other partners for peace. I attribute this to the efforts exerted by our troops in conducting dialogues and tapping local officials in Western Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Galvez, Jr.

“This is just the beginning of Sulu becoming a peaceful province. I made the politicians think that loose firearms are causes of criminalities. If the number of firearms is reduced, this will significantly result in the deterrence of the crime rate in the province. The local officials are very supporting of the President’s campaign, although they are emotionally affected. They bid to change the mindset and change their thinking that the firearms are symbols of authority,” also said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana

Lieutenant General Galvez, Jr. also presented 76 Abu Sayyaf surrenders to the Commander-in-Chief.

Out of the 76 Abu Sayyaf members presented to the President, 48 surrendered last year to Joint Task Force Sulu units while 28 surrendered this year. The surrenderers also turned over a total of 205 firearms to the government.

 “I came here to see that the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers are treated just like the communist terrorists surrenderers. Every time they surrender, someone has to take over and look after them. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will be tasked to teach them new skills,” said President Duterte.

From January 1, 2017 to March 26, 2018, a total of 202 Abu Sayyaf members yielded to the Joint Task Forces in the joint area of operations, 85 of whom surrendered in Basilan, 79 in Sulu, 36 in Tawi-Tawi, and two in Zamboanga City.

“Sulu, in time memorial, has suffered violence again and again. I have been here many times, but the situation is just the same. I don’t abhor you (Abu Sayyafs) because I understand the situation. As the president, I want to help you but, first, help me bring peace for the Moros in Mindanao. I am the only president that has a heart for the Muslims. All those who want to surrender are welcomed but those who want to fight, know that the government is ready,” PRRD added.

Also present during the activity were Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, Jr., National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, Secretary Arthur Tabaquero, the Presidential Adviser for Military Affairs, Secretary for the Interior and Local Government Eduardo Ano, TESDA Director General Secretary Guiling Mamondiong, General Rey Leonardo Guerero, AFP Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Rene Medina, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command, Mayor Kerkar Tan of Jolo, Sulu and former Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan.

Said turnover ceremony was held at the Multi-Purpose Gym Capitol in Patikul, Sulu at 2pm yesterday (March 26). (With WesMinCom PR)