10 Killed in IED explodes in Basilan

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (July  31, 2018) – At leasr ten were killed including five soldiers in an Improvised Explosive Device exploded in Lamitan City, Basilan at 5:50 - this morning, military official said.

LTC Gerry Besana, WexMinCom spokesperson disclosed that the troops of the 9th Scout Ranger Company led by Lieutenant Rodriguez acted upon a report of the presence of a white van suspected to be bearing an Improvised Explosive Device near the Magwakit Detachment in Barangay Colonia, Lamitan City, Basilan Province.

While troops were conducting ocular inspection, the van suddenly exploded which resulted to the death of one (1) soldier and four (4) CAFGUs, and wounding of 2 other CAFGUs, Besana said.

Besana added that as of 12noon, casualties has increased to 10 killed including a soldier, 5 CAFGUs, and 4 civiliansidentified as: Corporal Samad M. Jumah, the detachment commander; members of the Civilian Active Auxillary namely,MuidManda, AdzlanAbdula, Titing Omar, HermilitoGapo, Jr., and Jerry Inso who died in the hospital; and civilians, HadjiRadiaManda (female), Garry Omar (child), Rosa Inso (female), and RosidaTiting (female).One more CAFGU, 6 soldiers including 1 officer and five enlisted personnel from the 9th Scout Ranger Company, and one civilian were wounded in the incident.

They were 1st Lieutenant Rojean Rodriguez, Corporal Romeo Tabon Jr., Sergeant RenanteEscañan, Sergeant Mike Elumba, Private First Class Jeffrey Martecio, Private First Class Frias, CAA Wilbert Garcia, and Angelina Inso (female), he said.

Civilians killed and wounded were identified as dependents of the CAFGUs.

Further investigation is now being conducted to identify the perpetrator and motive of the incident.

Security has been tightened in Lamitan and other highly populated areas.

Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, committed to exhaust every available resource under his disposal to identify the perpetrators in the soonest possible time so that the people of Basilan will have the peace that they truly deserve.

4th PN-RAN Maritime Security Activity continues in Tawi-Tawi’

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Naval Station Romulo Espaldon (July 31, 2018) – The Western Mindanao Command through the Philippine Navy welcomed the Royal Australian Navy in Tawi-tawi for the 2nd leg of the 4th Combined PN-RAN Maritime Security Activity, July 29, 2018, Military Official said.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao disclosed that the Naval Station Juan Magluyan, an organic unit of NFWM facilitated the Arrival and Opening Ceremony of the 4^th Combined PN-RAN MSA with the two Royal Australian Navy Patrol Boats – HMAS Ararat and HMAS Wollongong inBatu-bato, Panglima Sugala,Tawi-Tawi. The said activity was attended by Lt. Col. Judd Finger of the JTG 629 of the Australian Government and LCDR Muksin A Jasid PN, Commander, Naval Station Juan Magluyan with the officers of NSJM and Commanding officers of PN vessel.

Rear Admiral Medina said that right after the opening ceremony, fellowship games between the PN and RAN delegates were held followed by a boodle fight which served as a symbol of brotherhood and strong bond between the two navies.

Moreover, series of meeting procedures and maritime patrols in the Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs) particularly in the waters of ZAMPELAN, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi will be conducted during the Maritime Security Activity. Also, various ship drills aboard PN and RAN vessels will be undertaken for the benefit and readiness of crew on board, Medina added.

Medina also said that the vessels involved in the maritime patrols under the control of NFWM are BRP Felix Apolinario (PC 395), BRP Anastacio Cacayorin (PC 387), Multi purpose Attack Craft BA 482. While HMAS Wollongong and HMAS Ararat will be utilized by the Royal Australian Navy.

Prior to this, a Coordinating/Planning Conference was held by the PN with RAN counterparts on June 5, 2018 as preparation for the conduct of the 4thMSA. Likewise, the first leg of the said MSA was held in Naval Forces West Area of Responsibility (NFW AOR) from July 16- 25, 2018, Medina added..

Medina explained that the continuous conduct of such activity enhanced the maritime interoperability between the PN and RAN and other regional state navies and to also complement the current operations of the Naval Task Group Basilan and Naval Task Group ZAMPELAN to pre-empt and end piracy, kidnappings and terrorism in the maritime domain. Also, this efforts of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao is in support to the anti-terrorism and piracy campaign of the government to maintain a safe maritime environment in Western Mindanao Command’s Area of Responsibility (AOR). (By JONG CADION 

with PR)

Tabak Division sends newly-activated 97IB to Zamboanga Peninsula

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY Zamboanga del Sur  (July 31. 2018) –– A send-off ceremony for the Army’s youngest and newly-activated 97th Infantry (Kalasag Lahi) Battalion under the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army was conducted at Tabak grandstand today 8am, Military official said.

Division Public Affairs Office Chief Maj. Ronald E. Suscano said that the Army’s Premier (Tbak) Division Commander Major General Roseller G Murillo led the send-off ceremony in time with the closing ceremony of the 97IB’s organizational training.

In his message, Maj Gen. Murillo reminded the troops to continue to be soldiers of peace and security by standing firm in  guarding the welfare of the people, tapping the support and collective effort of our stakeholders, carrying on in reaching communities and relaying to them our government’s efforts, and in striving hard to improve their skills, Maj Suscano s aid.

“Always be culturally sensitive and respectful to all our stakeholders in your new area of responsibility. Also, be disciplined and responsible soldier who is always cautious in his actions so that we may continue to sustain the gains that we have achieved in the pursuit of our mission,” Maj Gen. Murillo emphasized.

Maj. Suscano disclosed that the 97IB, composed of 485 strong and proficient officers and enlisted personnel, is slated to augment the 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade in Zamboanga Peninsula after successfully completing the organizational training designed to significantly complement the counter-insurgency efforts of the AFP and anti-illegal drugs and anti-private armed groups (PAGs) operations of other government agencies.

Maj. Suscano added that the newly-activated Battalion is led by Lt. Col. Rufino L de Leon as the pioneer battalion commander.

Suscano also said that the 97IB was formally activated pursuant to General Orders Nr 211, Headquarters, Philippine Army dated March 24, 2018 effective April 10, 2018.

5 Killed in IED explodes in Basilan

By JONG CADION               

PAGADIAN CITY (July 31. 2018) – Five were killed in an Improvised Explosive Device exploded in Lamitan City, Basilan at 5:50 this morning, Military Official said.

WesMinCom spokesperson LTC Herry M. Besana disclosed that the troops of the 9th Scout Ranger Company led by Lieutenant Rodriguez acted upon a report of the presence of a white van suspected to be bearing an Improvised Explosive Device near the Magwakit Detachment in Barangay Colonia, Lamitan City, Basilan Province.

LTC Besama said that while troops were conducting ocular inspection, the van suddenly expl  oded which resulted to the death of one soldier and four CAFGUs, and wounding of 2 other CAFGUs.

Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), committed to exhaust every available resource under his disposal to identify the perpetrators in the soonest possible time so that the people of Basilan will have the peace that they truly deserve, he said.

50 Marawi heroes donned with new ranks

By JONG CADION

PAGADAIAN CITY (July 31, 2018) - Newly promoted soldiers of the Joint Task Force Sulu were recognized by the Secretary of the National Defense Delfin Lorenzana and the Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, General Carlito G Galvez during a simple donning of ranks ceremony at Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Busbus, Jolo, Sulu at 4:30pm today (July 27).\, Military Official said.

LTC Gerry M. Besana, WesMinCom spokesperson disclosed that the soldiers were all meritoriously promoted after having been deployed in Marawi City during the AFP’s campaign to liberate the besieged City from the claws of terrorism last year.

Majority of the promotees are from the 1st and 5th Scout Ranger Battalion(48), one is from the 101st Bde and one from the 12th Light Reaction Company, LTC Besana said.

Joining the ceremony were the Vice Commander, Philippine Army Major General Arevalo; the Commander, Western Mindanao Command LtGen Arnel Delavega and the Commander, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army Major General Roseller G Murillo, LTC Bersana added.

Secretary Lorenzana in his message congratulated the soldiers for the promotion and for the job well done in Marawi.

“My congratulations to all of you. I know that you have sacrificed a lot, you truly deserve this promotion,” Sec Lorenzana said.

Sec Lorenzana also mentioned that the President has given assurance to take care of the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the battle as well as to look after wounded soldiers who are still recuperating.

“Let us continue to do our job as it is far from over. I, your Chief of Staff, and the other Commanders will make sure to provide you all the support you need,” Sec Lorenzana added.

“If everything goes out well, we will soon be able to shift our efforts to more peaceful means such as programs that intends to develop our country.”

Soldiers’ sacrifices recognized by PRRD

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (July 31, 2018) - A total of twelve battle casualties (BatCas) of the Joint Task Force Sulu were accorded the Order of Lapu-lapu level of Kampilan Medal by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during his visit in Zamboanga City on July 26 and Sulu earlier this week, WesMinCom Official said.

WesMinCom spokesperson LTC Gerry M. Besanadisclosed that the said soldiers were recognized by the President after sustaining injuries in the armed engagements during the intensified conduct of military operations launched by the Joint Task Force Sulu to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

LTC Besana identified the awardees as Private First Class Richard Aquino and Staff Sergeant Krisma rNatividad of the 45th Infantry Battalion; Private Eugene Gonzales, Corporal Jollybert Bartolome, Sergeant YahcobSarian of 32nd Infantry Battalion were acknowledged yesterday evening at the Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City while Corporal Bernardo Ortiz, Private Brix Cojo, and Private First Class John Jusay, all from the 32nd Infantry Battalion; Private First Class Reynard Baynos from the MBLT-3; Corporal Dixon Aplahal, Corporal BinjakarAjak and Corporal Larkin Lumacad were conferred at the Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital, Jolo, Sulu at 5 this afternoon.

The awardees also received a pistol, a cellphone and cash incentives from the President, LTC Besana said.

"With the overwhelming support of our Commander-In-Chief, we become more motivated to do our job with utmost enthusiasm,” said Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

President Duterte was accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander, Western Mindanao Command; Department of Interior and Local Government Officer-In-Charge General Eduardo Año; Major General Roseller G Murillo, Commander of the 1st Infantry Division; and other officers, LTC Besana added.

Earlier, the President also turned over to the Provincial Government of Sulu relief goods for the fire victims in two barangays of Jolo, Sulu, he said.

In his message to the Joloanons, the President assured the people that he will find means to help the victims start a new life and be able to build new houses. He also promised to provide cash money of P15,000 to every family by first week of August, LTC Besana said.

AFP hauls relief goods for Sulu fire victims

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (July 31, 2018) - Sorties of C130 and C295 aircrafts were flown to deliver relief goods for the Sulu fire victims in Jolo, Sulu since after the day the fire was declared “out”, WesMinCom Official said.

WesMinCom spokesperson LTC Gerry M. Besana disclosed that the different organizations from all over the country coordinated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to transport goods and help distribute such to the Joloanon victims.

LTC Besana said that the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao through its ARMM HEART immediately sent by C295 plane from Cotabato City 200 sacks of 50 kilos rice, 600 boxes of sardines, 1,020 local sleeping mats (banig), and other personal items a day after the fire broke out in Sulu that left families homeless.

GMA Kapuso Foundation also donated 80 sacks of 50 kilos rice, 80 boxes of sardines, and 139 boxes of noodles yesterday (July 26), LTC Besana said.

“The AFP in coordination with DSWD and other concerned agencies is currently doing its best to be able to help in all ways possible” said General Carlito G Galvez, Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines. “Currently, we are in close coordination with other stakeholders who have already expressed their intention to help and donate.”

LTC Besana also said that the AFPs Joint Task Force Sulu is also directly involved in the different disaster responses organized by the Regional Government of ARMM and the Provincial Government of Sulu by facilitating and supporting distribution of relief, conduct of feeding programs and medical assistance activities, clearing of affected area and rescue operations.

Initial investigation of the Bureau of Fire indicates that the conflagration that started at 2:45 in the afternoon last July 24, was caused by overloaded electrical wiring system, he added.

The fire claimed hundreds of houses from two baranggays in Jolo, Brgy Walled City and Brgy. Busbus, and left 20,278 persons homeless with Php27 million of total estimated damages. It was declared “fire out” at 11:30 in the evening on the same day.\m WesMinCom Official disclosed

Php350K Worth of ShabuBusted in Mampang, Zamboanga City Drug Operation

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (July 27, 2018) – The Drugs Enforcement Unit of Zamboanga City Police Station 2 led by its Station Commander Police Senior Inspector Julius Dao-an arrested two persons involved in illegal drugs during the conduct of buy-bust operation at Km 6, Mampang Zamboanga City at about 8:20 PM of July 26, 2018, Police official said.

           

Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) PIO Chief PCINSP Helen L. Galvez identified the two arrested persons as Aldin Awod y Bara (Newly identified Pusher), 25 yrs. old, male, single, jeep driver and Almikdal Ahmad y Bautista, 24 yrs. old, male, married, born on Sept. 2, 1993, Elementary grade Level, PUJ conductor. Who sold one (1) piece heat sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu (Buy Bust Item) to poseur buyer amounting of P800.00 peso.

Galvez said the the operaticves recovered from the possession and control of Aldin were One piece heat sealed transparent plastic large pack containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu (possession).One heat sealed medium size transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu and eight pieces of One hundred peso bills (PHP100.00) marked money and One (1) Unit single motorcycle, XRM 125 colored red with numbered plate 1190JS.

Galvez added that the illegal drugs has estimated street value of suspected shabu is Three Hundred Fifty ThousandPesos (Php350,000.00).

All confiscated items were properly turnover to the assigned investigator of said police station to form part of investigation. Suspects are presently detained at the said police station for proper disposition.

Rape Suspect and Child Abuser Arrested in Sominot, Zamboanga Del Sur

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 27, 2018) -  The PNP personnel of SominotMunicipal Police Station (MPS) successfully arrested the wanted person duringconduct ofpolice operation on wanted person (Service of Arrest Warrant) at about 5:00amof July24, 2018 at Purok 3, Barangay Bag-ong Baroy in Sominot muicipality, Zamboanga Del Sur, police official said.

Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9) PIO Chief PCINSP Helen L. Galvez identified the arrested wanted personasRique Manisan Y Ugmad, 39 years old, farmer, married, and a resident of Purok 3, Barangay Bag-ong Baroy, Sominot.

PCINSP Galvez said that during the police operation, the operatives was able to recover from the possession and controls of the suspect two improvised marble-feed Air Gun (SUPLONG).

PCINSP Galvez added that the accused was arrested by virtue of Warrants of Arrest docketed under Criminal Case Number 17-10, 1460 for Qualified Rape by Sexual Assault and Criminal Case Number 17-10, 1459 for Child Abuse. Both Warrant of Arrest were issued by Hon. Judge Analyn F. Ramas-Costanilla, Presiding Judge of RTC, 9TH Judicial Region, Branch 30, Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur dated October 2, 2017.

The case has recommended bail for his temporary liberty for Qualified Rape by Sexual Assault is fixed at Two Hundred Thousand (Php200,000.00) pesos and for Child Abuse is fixed at Eighty Thousand (Php80,000.00) pesos, Galvez said.

Galvez also said that the accused is now temporary detained at Sominot MPS detention cell waiting for court disposition.  (By JONG CADION)

Wanted Person Cuffed in Pitogo, Zamboanga Del Sur

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 27, 2018) - The PNP personnel of Pitogo Municipal Police Station(MPS) successfully arrested the wanted person during the conduct ofpolice operation on wanted person (Service of Arrest Warrant) at about 7:30 AM of July24, 2018 at Barangay Panubigan, Pitogo, Zamboanga Del Sur, police official said.

Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) PIO Chief PCINSP Helen L. Galvez identified the arrestedwanted person asEric Balingit Hilamon, 21years old, male, single, jobless and a resident of Purok Palmera, Poblacion, Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur.

CINSP Galvez said that the accused was arrested by virtue of warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Johnabel H. Tabunda, Presiding Judge of 7th Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Dimataling, Tabina and Pitogo dated May 29, 2018 for the crime of Slight Physical Injuries docketed under criminal case number 17-2251-P. The casehas a recommended bail bond of Two Thousand Pesos (Ph 2,000.00) for his provisionary liberty.

The accused is now temporary detained at PitogoMPS detention cell waiting for court disposition, CINSP Galvez added. (By JONG CADION)

Murder suspect in Guipos, ZamboSur arrested in Lalano del Norte

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 27, 2018) – The PNP personnel of GuiposMunicipal Police Station (MPS) successfully arrested the wanted person during theconduct ofpolice operation on wanted person (Service of Arrest Warrant) at about 2:30pmof July24, 2018 at Purok 1, Barangay San Vicente, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, police official said.

Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) PIO Chief CINSP Helen L. Galvez identified the arrested personasMarquin Gomez y Antone, 33 years old, with live-in partner, driver and a resident of Purok 1, San Vicente, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

CINSP Galvez said the accused was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of Murder docketed under criminal case number 8375-2k6 issued by Hon. Aniceto B. Galon Jr., Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court, Branch 20, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur dated April 24, 2007 with no Bail bond recommended for his liberty.

The accused is now temporary detained at Guipos MPS detention cell waiting for court disposition, Galvez added. (By JONG CADION)

75IB intensifies threats, harassment vs Lumad bakwit, supporters

"WE were threatened by Marcos Bocales that if things get worse, he will liken the bakwit to that of Marawi," said Rene, an evacuee. Marcos Bocales is a leader of the paramilitary group Magahat-Bagani, the group which committed the September 1, 2015 Lianga massacre. Bocales join the military in their activities outside the evacuation center.

Meanwhile, teachers of Lumad schools TRIFPSS and ALCADEV continue to receive threats. "I got a text saying that I am already being targeted. They warned me that they'll blow my head off," Aya, a volunteer teacher at TRIFPSS reported.

Other teachers are also being threatened by the military face to face. "A military agent told me to stop what I was doing or something bad will happen to me," Dondon Gultia, OIC at TRIFPSS narrated.

The same military agent who threatened Gultia also threatened the community leaders. "Umayos kayo kundi sasampolan ko kayo," the agent told the leaders.

The Lumad evacuees who evacuated last July 16, 2018, and are staying at the gym of Brgy. Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur are now seeking help after threats, harassments, and intimidation from the military escalated since they fled from their homes.

Not only evacuees are being harassed and threatened by the 75th Infantry Battalion. Local government officials are also being pressured against helping the Lumad. "I was berated by the military after I let the evacuees get in the gym," a barangay official told the Bishop of Tandag during a visit.

Priests and church people are also intimidated by the military and told not to help the evacuees. Fr. Lacal, a Carmelite priest, who was supposed to donate food to the evacuees was told by the military, "You should not tolerate the evacuees so they will return to their communities." Other priests and nuns who were visiting the evacuees were blocked by the military and were escorted to a different venue instead.

The Lumad evacuees who wished to transfer to another evacuation site on July 23 were also blocked by the military, the vehicles that would transport them were held at military checkpoints.

Around 1,600 individuals evacuated from 15 Lumad communities in Lianga and San Agustin in Surigao del Sur, due to military abuses. The AFP is building detachments in their communities to provide security to coal mining companies raring to start operations in the Andap Valley Complex.

2 Fishing Boats Apprehended in Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay for Illegal Fishing

TUNGAWAN, Zamboanga Sibugay (July 26, 2018) - PNP elements of Tungawan Municipal Police Station (MPS), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and Bantay Dagat of Tungawan Municipality conducted seaborne patrol at municipal sea waters of Tungawan particularly at Barangay Looc Labuan, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay at about 2:00 PM of July 23, 2018.

The operation was resulted to the successful apprehension of two fishing boat engaged in illegal fishing at above-mentioned place, to wit:

One fishing boat “F/B Nur” color white, green, yellow combination owned by Nurcia Pa-a, onboard with twenty crews identified as:

1. Suaib Sibing, 2. Jaymar Paragas, 3. Ramil Catalan,

4. Fahroh Sibing, 5. Radznir Abubakar, 6. Umra Jubail,

7. Haron Kahal, 8. Kurtubi Aguilon, 9. Mohammadin Salawaddin,

10. Adman Aburi, 11.Manoy Abubakar, 12. Jomar Catalan,

13. Omar Sibing, 14. Asim Abdul, 15. NerjanHiya,

16. Jurkhan Sinnong, 17. Khalid Sibing, 18. Hamiddin Salawaddin,

19. Danny Dacula and 20. Marvin Sibing, all residents of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay.

The said boat was loaded with fishing  paraphernalia’s, one unit engine 4DR5, one unit generator, four and a half box of fish with a total of Six Hundred Thousand Pesos (Php600,000.00) estimated value.  

On the other hand, the other fishing boat apprehended was “F/B Irene” color white owned by Haji. Jul KilpiAtap, onboard with fifteen crews identified as:

1. MoksanSibing, 2. RaihanSibing, 3. BaiderSibing, 4. DinharSibing,

5. AlcaisarBensali, 6. AlverAwang, 7. WadakSingsing,

8. Mohammad Atab, 9. RadzmarDamlid, 10. BensarMadbalis,

11. AsmadMaji, 12. AbdulnaserAlam, 13. JunjunYusop,

14. CaseemArsad, and 15. Adie Nuril, all residents of Naga ZamboangaSibugay.

The said boat also loaded with fishing  paraphernalia’s, one unit engine 4DR5, one unit generator, and a half  box of fish with a total of Six Hundred Thousand Pesos (Php600,000.00) estimated value.

Meanwhile, at about 7:30pm of same date, the owners of the two apprehended fishing boats Nurcia Pa-a paid the fine amounting to Twenty Thousand Pesos (Php20,000.00) while Haji. Jul KilpiAtap paid the amount of fifteen thousand pesos (Php15, 000.00) at MTO Tungawan for violation of municipal ordinance.

The said fishing boats together with the crews were released from the custody of MENRO. PO2 Ronel G Limarewith contact number 09351181355 is the investigator on case. (By JONG CADION)

51 Firearms, 1 Hand grenade Turned-Over to Titay MPS

 

Photo shows HON. LEONARDO B. TALANIA, Municipal Mayor of Titay and assisted by LT. COL. DANILO AMBE, CO, 42nd, INF IB PA, turned over to PSSUPT NESTOR Y TIEMPO, PD, ZSBPPO the assorted firearms surrendered at Titay ZSP

TITAY, Zamboanga Sibgugay (July 26, 2018) - Fifty-one assorted firearms including one hand grenade were turned over by the Twenty-Two Barangay Chairman of Titay municipality during the Mass Surrender of Loose Firearms held at 3rd Floor, Municipal Hall Building, Titay, Zamboanga Sibugayat about 10:00am of July 23, 2018, Police official said.

PCI Ricardo Tabanas Pacaña, OIC of Titay MPS, initiated the mass surrender of Firearms. PSSUPT Nestor Y Tiempo, Provincial Director, Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, LT. Col. Danilo Ambe, Commanding Officer of 42nd Infantry Battalion of Phil Army, 1st Lt. Rommel P. Galvez, Commanding Officer, “A” Coy of 44th Infantry Battalion attended the occasion, Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9), PIO Chief CINSP Helen L. Galvez disclosed.

CINSP Galvez added that Titay Municipal Mayor Leonardo B. Talania together with Barangay Chairman of different Barangay of Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay, also attended the said activity.

Galvez said that the fifty-one assorted firearms and one explosive, which were surrendered to the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, were as follows:

Thirty-seven units 12 Gauge Improvise Long Shotgu,

Eight unitsCal .38 revolver,

Two units Cal .22 revolver

One units Cal.5.56 pistol Improvised

One unit Hand grenade

Three Units Pistolized Homemade shot gun.

Meanwhile, during the ceremony, the participants were informed of the laws in possessing the firearms. Likewise, Titay MPS OIC Chief urged the public that all those unlicensed and unregistered firearms must be surrendered either to the PNP or AFP to ensure the peace and tranquility in the community.

Galvez also said that after the said activity, inventory was conducted and those loose firearms and explosives, which were surrendered to the PNP, were turnover to Provincial Logistics Branchf or proper disposition. (By JONG CADION)

Photo shows HON. LEONARDO B. TALANIA, Municipal Mayor of Titay and assisted by LT. COL. DANILO AMBE, CO, 42nd, INF IB PA, turned over to PSSUPT NESTOR Y TIEMPO, PD, ZSBPPO the assorted firearms surrendered at Titay ZSP.

Maute-ISIS Group killed in Lanao del Sur AFP operation

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 26, 2018) – Troops under Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN encountered Maute-ISIS Terrorist Group during combat operations in Masiu, Lanao del Sur after concerned residents informed AFP units of the presence of the terrorists, Military official said.

Maj. Ronald E. Suscano, Division Pubvlic Affairs Office Chief disclosed thatr responding to the information of the concerned civilians in the area, operating troops of 49Infantry Battalion conducted strike operation on the lair of Panarigan Tama Baoraki @ Golden Boy and Hadji Rasul Amimbering. Both were alleged leaders of the lawless group and supporters of the MAUTE-ISIS terrorist operating in Lanao del Sur.

Maj. Suscano said that a brief firefight ensued as the operating troops were fired upon by the armed men while approaching the target area. The ten minutes exchange of fires resulted to the death of a certain Zainal Candidato and recovery of the following war weapons and other materials: three M16 rifles, two RPG Launchers, two grenades, ISIS Banners, six sachet of shabu, other drug paraphernalias and one cellular phone. No casualties reported on the government side, Maj. Suscano added.

“I commend the people of Lanao del Sur, for reporting the presence of the MAUTE-ISIS terrorists and the troops of JTF ZAMPELAN for swift and decisive action that led to the successful operations,” said Army’s Premeir Division Chief Major General Roseller G Murillo, the Commander of JTF ZAMPELAN.

Major General Murillo further added that “Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism is a shared responsibility of all members of our society but primarily of the people in the communities which these terrorists seek to destroy our way of life.”  (By JONG CADION)

   

Rape Suspect Cuffed in Tambulig

TAMBULIG, Zamboanga del Sur (July 26, 2018) – The PNP personnel of Tambulig Municipal Police Station (MPS) successfully arrested the rape suspect during the conduct of police operation on wanted person (Service of Arrest Warrant) at about 10:30am of July 21, 2018 at Purok Bombel, Barangay Sumalig in Tambulig municipality of Zamboanga Del Sur province.

Police identified the arrested wanted person as Lupercio Mamawe Bucar Jr. 27 years old, single, fisherman and a resident of Purok Bombel, Brgy Sumailig, Tambulig of this province.

The accused was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of Rape with Criminal Case number 2018-10-3553 issued by Hon. Jaime B. Caberte, Presiding Judge of RTC, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 23, Molave, Zamboanga del Sur dated July 18, 2018.

The accused is now temporary detained at Tambulig MPS detention cell waiting for court disposition. (By JONG CADION)

Toss coin for DSA Liga presidency

DATU SAUDI AMPATUAN, Maguindanao ---  After a toss coin to break the tie, the lucky one, Chairman Anwar Kedtag of  Barangay Elian, emerged as president of the Liga ng mga Barangay of this town following the conduct of election last July 16 at the GAD Building of this municipality.

        The election was participated by eight barangay chairmen, three of them contesting the Liga presidency. The two other aspirants were Barangay Chairman Datu Mando Tambungalan of Kitapok and Barangay Chairman Zaiton U. Dimaukom of Salbu.

        Tambungalan and Kedtag tied the votes, hence, the tossing of the coin as is the ruling to determine the winning contender. The new Liga president is a neophyte in politics.

The conduct of the election was peaceful and successfully exercised under the presence of 601st Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the 601st Brigade.

The presence of a top ranking military official was unprecedented in the history of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, particularly in the conduct of the election of officers of the Liga ng mga Barangay here. With Brig. Gen. Carreon was Lt. Col. Alvin Iyog of the 2nd Mechanized Battalion.

Also with Municipal Mayor Bai Anida A. Dimaukom in the conduct of the Liga election were Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Anisa Abdulkarim and Municipal Election officer Estelita Orbase.

“Rest assured I will do my best to work hand-in-hand together with my co-barangay chairmen in unity towards our mission and vision to make this municipality a progressive and peaceful place to live-in, inspite the fact that we live inside the SPMS box. But still, we must do our best to live in unity, peacefully, and harmoniously. With the help also of our men in uniform, such as AFP and PNP, we in the barangay level have to strive to eliminate illegal activities in this town, such as illegal drugs, extremism, and terrorism,”Liga president Kedtag said.

        In his message, Brig. Gen. emphasized the importance of good and exemplifying leadership with a clear and definite mission and vision in his area of responsibility… “a political leader who works for the benefit and welfare of his constituents. And I am thankful that finally we have already our barangay officials who could help us in maintaining and monitoring the peace and order in this community. But, I’m also warning you --- report to your respective barangays regularly  because I have instructed my men to check your attendance daily to assure that you are working and serving your people in your area of responsibility,”

On the other hand, MLGOO Anisa Abdulkarim enticed the barangay officials to do their tasks as mandated by the national government. To the Liga president, she said: “You are responsible to monitor and to guide your barangay chairmen. Your rule is just like a father of seven siblings.. You have to entertain their problems and bring this out to our level or to our municipal mayor for immediate action.”

        Mayor Dimaukom, on her part, also congratulated the newly elected ABC/Liga president with the hope, as a new member of the Sangguniang Bayan of this town, the sectoral head could help attain “our goals to make this community a peaceful place to live in.” (ANNE ACOSTA)

Drug Suspect Arrested in Pagadian City

PAGADIAN CITY,  Zamboanga del Sur (July 14, 2018) - The PNP elements of Lakewood Municipal Police Station (MPS) in coordination to Pagadian City Police Station arrested one illegal drug personality during the conduct of  manhunt operation at Barangay San Jose, Pagadian City at about 1:00pm of July 19, 2018.

Police identified the arrested person as Juram Limo Y Risada, 38 years old, male, married, janitor worker and a resident of Purok 3, Barangay Baking, Lakewood, Zamboanga Del Sur

He was arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest for the crime of Homicide, docketed under Criminal Case No.11803-2K14 issued by Hon. Dennis P. Vicoy, Presiding judge of RTC Branch 20, Pagadian City dated March 9, 2017 with bail bond recommended of forty thousand pesos (Php40, 000.00).

The arrested wanted person is now under the custody of Lakewood MPS for proper disposition. (By JONG CADION)

                               

                               

Drug Suspect Busted in Ipil

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (July 24, 2018) – The Operatives of Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, Phil. Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Ipil Municipal Police Station (MPS) arrested one illegal drug personality during the conduct of joint buy-bust operation at Purok Pines 2, Barangay Sanito in Ipil municipality, Zamboanga Sibugay province at about 3:55pm of July 20, 2018, Police official said.

Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) POI Chief CINSP Helen L. Galvez identified the arrested person as Gian Kryan Austero Recentes "a.k.a. Ian", (Newly identified SLT/Pusher), 27 years old, single, 1st year college and a resident of Purok Saturn, Barangay Bangkerohan, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

CINSP Galvez disclosed that the operating operatives confiscated from arrested possession and control of the suspect were:

-Two pieces small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu

-One-piece medium heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu,

-One-piece large heat sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu;

-Illegal drugs paraphernalia’s and

-One-piece five hundred peso (Php500.00) bill with serial number FJ975826 as marked money.

Subject arrested person and the confiscated items were brought to Ipil MPS for proper disposition. (By JONG CADION)