BUBUWIT BALITA

STOP MISLEADING THE PUBLIC ON RH BILL, COUPLES FOR CHRIST TOLD

2008-09-26T04:53:00.000-07:00

NGO leaders vehemently condemn the continuous misinformation of the public by the Couples for Christ (CfC) on House Bill 5043, or the Reproductive Health and Population Development Act of 2008.

For Couples for Christ (CFC) to plea to kill RH bill is to condone more than 3500 of Filipino women dying every year due to childbirth and pregnancy complications. Killing the RH bill means ignoring the children left orphans by the mothers who died of maternal deaths. For CfC to campaign to kill HB 5043 amounts to taking part in the death of these poor mothers.

“We call on the opponents of the bill to stop propagating misinformation on the bill. Their effort to impose their moralities on others makes them blind of the realities around us. This is unfair for the 90% of Filipinos clamoring for the realization of this policy” Ramon San Pascual, Executive Director of the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development Foundation, Inc. (PLCPD), said.

San Pascual added that the CfC’s plea to “kill the RH bill” means an appeal for the government and our leaders to deny the Filipino people, most especially women, of their reproductive rights and their freedom to make informed choices.

Likewise, Ben De Leon, President of the Forum for Family Planning and Development, also criticized the CfC. "Ironically, the behavior of these anti-RH groups who are mostly from the Catholic hierarchy is very un-Catholic. They are in the forefront of a campaign to spread misinformation and lies to the Filipino public,” De Leon said.

Meanwhile, the Reproductive Health bill continues to grab more authors in the House of Representatives.

“The consistent threats and misinformation being peddled by the anti-reproductive health (RH) bill groups are actually helping the campaign for its passage,” San Pascual exclaimed. “In their effort to bully our policymakers, the anti-RH groups are actually insulting the intelligence and capacity of policymakers to decide based on facts and their conscience.”

San Pascual pointed out that since the inception of the anti RH groups’ vigorous misinformation campaign and public threats issued by certain Catholic Bishops to lawmakers, the RH bill’s authorship rose from 63 to 105.

“Their scare tactics such as the election backlash seems to turn-off some legislators,” San Pascual observed. “We call on the opponents to stop resorting to mudslinging and dirty tactics. It does not do anybody any good. It would be better to instead spend their time in working with us to improve the bill.”
House Bill 5043 is now being deliberated in the House of Representatives.

PCSUPT SERAPIO orders implementation of concerted police strate

2008-09-26T04:49:00.000-07:00

The North Cotabato conflict that started on August 7, 2008 has ushered in new police strategies in combating criminalities and terrorism.

Ramadhan will end by the night of September 30, 2008 (Eid’l Fitr on October 1) and it is expected that renegade commanders of the MILF will resume harassment to civilian villages and guerilla attacks to AFP/PNP detachments. Basing upon intelligence and information, monitored troop movements and consolidation are probably preparatory acts in their attempt to spread the hostilities outside PALMA-P and Maguindanao areas, hence, increase in illegally displaced-persons.

Against an ever more unstable and at the same time unpredictable rogue MILF activities, clear manifestations of which have been the 21 armed skirmishes, occupation of 13 barangays in the 1St Congressional District of the province and subsequent mass evacuation of people for fear of being caught in the armed confrontations, Regional Director PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, Jr ordered for the implementation of a concerted police strategy in anticipation of more activities from the MILF as Ramadhan nears it end.
Concerted police strategy has been a principal concern for the regional police command under the leadership of PCSUPT SERAPIO. Quad defense, deployment and expansion were seen as effective courses of action in security preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery to combat criminalities and terrorism.City and provincial directors and group directors of PNP mobile groups were directed to establish strong point detachments, establish monitoring points, enhance checkpoints and organize rapid deployment of troops.

PNP 12 affords assistance to one flooded barangay in Sultan Kudarat

2008-09-26T04:48:00.000-07:00

Police and military forces secured some families in Brgy. Antong, Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat affected by flood due to continuous heavy downpours which caused the over flowing of Buayan River.

Agricultural lands submerged in waters including one school building, leaving three classrooms destroyed. 270 hectares of rice field were ruined.
As of this release, no casualty has been reported. Extent of damage is yet to be determined while Sultan Kudarat police are finding means for evacuation assistance and relief operations in the area.

IED Explosion Rocked Isulan, Sultan Kudarat

2008-09-10T02:10:00.001-07:00

The Philippine National Police, Region 12 reported that one of the two improvised explosive device exploded prematurely in front of the public market of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat about four o’clock in the morning.

Police Superintendent Norberto Batislaong, officer in charge of the regional intelligence division (RID), PNP 12 based in this city said the explosive device was placed on the cemented floor infront of Nitz and Ging Beauty Parlor owned by one Corazon Bawe
at the public market entrance gate along Talipasan St.. Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.

Batislaong further said it is obvious the perpetrators failed to infiltrate or bring the explosive device inside the public market because of the effective security measures
being implemented by the local government unit and the Philippine National Police.

The PNP regional official disclosed that the Isulan Police Station, PNP Sultan Kudarat, PNP Crime Laboratory-Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) and the 65th Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, Philippine Army are jointly investigating the incident to determine the perpetrators, their motive and the type of explosives used.

In a related incident, another improvised explosive device was recovered by the elements of the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police Office, Tacurong City Police Station and the 65th Explosive Ordnance Disposal team around 6:45 AM today at a canal in d corner of Malvar St. and the national highway.
Recovered items are presently under the custody of the Tacurong City Police Station and the case is undergoing intensive investigation by the joint police units and army explosive ordnance disposal team.

10 MILF rebels die in Piagapo, LDS encounter

2008-09-10T02:09:00.001-07:00

Philippine Army soldiers belonging to the 33rd Infantry Battalion of the First Infantry (Tabak) Division (IID, PA) have killed at least ten (10) elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels under Commander Bravo during a 3-hour gun battle that occurred Sept. 8, 2008 in Barangay Tapucan, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

In a press briefing with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and officials of the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC), region 10, at the Information Command Center of the Philippine information Center in Iligan City, Lt. Col. Agane Adriatico, Civil Military Operations Chief of IID, PA reported that one of the slain MILF rebel was the son of Commander Dragon.
Adriatico said the Army soldiers suffered no casualty. However, the lawless MILF group led by Commanders Dragon, Aladin and Omar Mangondara managed to escape after the firefight.

AFP- Lawless MILF Clashed Anew

2008-09-10T02:07:00.000-07:00

An estimated of around 50 LMGs clashed with the government pursuing troops at barangays Tamparan, Munai, late of Friday, Sept 5 .

According to LTC Agane Adriatico , ACS-CMO,J-7,IID, PA, said the encounter bet. The elements of the government 10 IB Company and LMGs lasted for about one hour after which the enemy withdrew with undetermined number of casualties.

Government forces suffered one wounded in action. Recovered at the scene of battle were: 2 M16 rifles, 2 ICOMS radios, 2 rifle grenades, 1 carbine rifles, bandoleer, military uniforms, and 1 wet cell battery.
Col. Adriatico said the MLGs under commander Bravo are on the ran and spread into small groups but “wherever they go to the law would catch up with them”.

PRO 12 tightens security as 9/11 attack nears

2008-09-10T02:06:00.000-07:00

Police Regional Office 12 Deputy Regional Director for Administration PCSUPT (Atty.) FELICISIMO V KHU, JR ordered for the tightening of security measures on places of convergences and vital installations in the whole region as the seventh anniversary of the 9/11 attack in the US approaches.
He ordered all city and provincial directors to establish more checkpoints in key areas and increase police visibility.
He also ordered for deployment of added policemen to watch the bridges, shopping malls, power plants and the General Santos City International Airport.
Policemen deployed in these areas include uniformed and plainclothes personnel as covert security and bomb squads.PCSUPT KHU said police were also instructed to look out for possible sympathy attacks from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during this time

Military Operations to continue during Ramadan

2008-09-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Despite the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadhan, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue to strike on the Lawless MILF Groups (LMGs) responsible for the attacks of the provinces of North Cotabato, Maguindanao, and Lanao del Norte.

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Alexander Yano said that the government needs to sustain its gains and military campaign against those MILF perpetrators of un-Islamic acts in Mindanao.

However, the AFP Chief of Staff said tactical adjustments will be made by their military commanders in field to allow non-lawless MILG groups and other Muslims to peacefully observe Ramadhan.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assured that appropriate assistance and support will be extended to those at the evacuation centers so that they can observe Ramadhan unhampered.

“Tactical Adjustments on Military Operations during Ramadhan" –CSAFP Yano

2008-09-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

Armed Forces Chief of Staff, General Alexander Yano, said today that Government Forces will adjust its law enforcement operations to allow non-Lawless MILF Groups and other Muslims to peacefully observe Ramadhan.

He said tactical moves, artillery and air strikes will be minimized as much as practicable
nonetheless, field commanders are not prevented to proportionally employ such fire power when extremely necessary in addressing imminent threats from an overwhelming Lawless MILF.

To foster better understanding and ensure adherence in respecting the religious observance of Ramadan, the AFP chief of staff ordered a sustained briefing of troops on cultural and religious sensitivities.

Moreover, the military shall closely coordinate and confer with Muslim traditional and religious leaders in formulating activities mutually beneficial to Muslim communities and security forces.
These adjustments, while allowing unhampered observance of Ramadhan will be undertaken without losing our forces in going after the lawless MILF groups and bringing normalcy to conflict areas in Mindanao.

Umbra Kato, men to face 110 criminal raps

2008-09-03T06:43:00.000-07:00

KIDAPAWAN CITY – Task Force PALMA-P in North Cotabato filed at least one hundred ten (110) criminal complaints, most of them arson, attempted murder and robbery in band against Commander Ameril Umbra Kato and his supporters.
Rogue commander Kato, the 105th MILF Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) base commander, and his men were accused of overtaking 26 barangays in five municipalities in North Cotabato province since July 1, 2008.
TF PALMA-P Legal Offensive chairman PCSUPT (Atty.) FELICISIMO V KHU, JR, Deputy Regional Director for Administration of this Office, said that of the 110 complaints against Kato and his men, 40 were arson, 28 murders (to include attempted and frustrated), 37 robbery, 2 serious illegal detention, 2 grave coercion and violation of the anti-cattle-rustling law.
Most complainants were from the villages in Aleosan, Libungan and Pigcawayan municipalities.
"This development now makes the accused Moro rebels like any ordinary criminals," PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR., Central Mindanao Police Chief said in an interview.
TF PALMA-P was tasked to secure towns of Pigcawayan, Alamada, Libungan, Midsayap, and Aleosan, including Pikit, in North Cotabato's first district, from any possible rebels' attack.

The following is the breakdown of cases filed:

Aleosan Incidents:
1. Thirty-one (31) counts of Arson against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr Wahid Tondok, Cmdr Tha ( true name: Mustapha Gundalanga), Cmdr Abdul Bayan, Cmdr Jack Abas, Cmdr. Mohammad, Cmdr Bravo, Ismael Manalasal, Cmdr. Haun Sinadato, several John Does and Peter Does.
2. Thirty (30) counts of Robbery against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr Wahid Tondok, Cmdr Tha ( true name: Mustapha Gundalanga), Cmdr Abdul Bayan, Cmdr Jack Abas, Cmdr. Mohammad, Cmdr Bravo, Ismael Manalasal, Cmdr. Haun Sinadato, several John Does and Peter Does.
3. One (1) count of Murder against Rakman Sulaik, Kusain Sulaik and Mama Guiamilon.

Pikit Incidents:
4. Four (4) counts of Arson against Cmdr Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr Usi Ampatuan, Nayag Timan, Datukan Montok, Tumalao Butuan and Several John Does and Peter Does
5. One (1) count attempted Murder against Cmdr Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr. Usi Ampatuan, Nayag Timan, Datukan Mntok, Tumalao Butuan, several John Does and Peter Does.
6. Three (3) counts of Murder against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr. Usi Ampatuan, Nayag Timan, Datukan Montok, Tumalao Butuan, several John Does and Peter Does.
7. One (1) count of Robbery in Band against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr. Usi Ampatuan, Nayag Timan, Datukan Montok, Tumalao Butuan, several John Does and Peter Does.

Midsayap Incidents:
8. One (1) count of Arso against Ameril Umbra Kato, Alias Cmdr. Talio Budz Basilan, Alias Sagya, Ganin Kamansa, Buka Guialili Alias Jabo, Smawtin basilan, Kutong Basilan, Esmael Sandaton and several John Does.
9. Two (2) counts of attempted Murder against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Cmdr. Talio, several John Does and Peter Does.

Midsayap, Barangay Upper Labas, August 10, 2008 incidents:
10. Three (3) counts of Arson against Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr. Paradise and several John Does.
11. One (1) count of Destructive Arson against Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr. Paradise and several John Does.
12. One (1) count of Attempted Murder against Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr paradise and several John Does.

Libungan Incidents:
13. Nine (9) counts of Attempted Murder against Cmdr. Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise and Several John Does.

Pigcawayan Incidents:
14. Two (2) counts of Arson against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimblang, Cmdr. VCamarodin Hadji Alias Cmdr. Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and several John Does.

15. Six (6) counts of Robbery in band against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does.

16. One (10 count Frustrated Murder against Mendin Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does.

17. One (1) count of Attempted Murder against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does.

18. Two (2) counts Grave Coercion against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nas, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does

19. One (1) count for violation of the Anti-Cattle Rustling law of 1974 against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does.

20. Two (2) counts of Serious Illegal Detention against Mending Cabilangan, Ameril Umbra Kato, Musa Alamada Alias Cmdr Paradise, Cmdr Abdulbayan Guimlang, Cmdr. Camarodin Hadji Ali Alias Cmdr Mudi, Palencia Nasa, Doctor Hadji Akbar, Guialodin and Several John Does.
"The complaints may not be enough but for sure this will make Kato and his men pay for what they did to the civilians in North Cotabato," PCSUPT KHU added.

PRO 12 conducts medical mission

2008-08-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

Anticipating the medical needs of the affected evacuees and displaced persons in the PALMA (Pigcawayan, Aleosan, Libungan, Midsayap and Alamada) areas, Police Regional Office 12 conducted medical outreach missions in five towns in North Cotabato affected by the armed conflict between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Regional Director PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR. said the medical mission was conducted to show to the people that the PNP cared for them. It was also a part of the community work component of the PNP Police Community Relations aimed to enhance public support by improving the living condition of the disadvantaged and displaced people.

Since the North Cotabato conflict started, PRO 12 tried to meet some of the medical needs in the evacuation sites in the five affected municipalities. PRO 12 has taken in doctors, nurses, medics and even dentists. The PRO 12 Medical and Dental personnel joined with the local medics.

PRO 12 Regional Health Service also took small teams and went out on day trips to remote affected barangays and held clinics with nurses and doctors. The medical team brought donated medicines and divided it up among the local medics. Some of the activities initiated were consultation/treatment, limited field surgery, hygiene and sanitation and primary health care.

The mission in Aleosan alone benefited six affected barangays with about 2,000 families. The latest medical mission was conducted yesterday, August 27, 2008, at Brgy. Baliki, Midsayap, Cotabato with 565 families and 2,280 dependents benefited. As of last count, there are estimated 13,680 evacuees from North Cotabato.
PCSO donated medicines together with some other concerned non-government organizations. The PNP hopes the situation will improve so that it can once again feel safe working with the almost 14,000 evacuees desperately needing help.

PGMA bares shift in premise of govt peace efforts

2008-08-22T04:53:00.001-07:00

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo announced today a shift in the basic premise of the government’s peace efforts from talking with the armed groups to holding discussions with the communities in the conflict areas.

The President made the announcement in her message at the opening of the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

“The focus of our talks shall shift from the armed groups to the communities. The parameters governing our negotiations shall be a balance between the constitutionality and public sentiment,” the President said, as she pointed out that in order to promote the growth of industries and most especially the best interest of the people, government must maintain a peaceful and orderly society.

She said the change in the government’s approach to end the Mindanao conflict prompted by the atrocities committed recently by forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in North Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, Sarangani and Maguindanao.

MILF forces went on a rampage during the last two weeks killing more than 40 civilians, including women, children and the elderly and burning houses and looting properties.

The President explained that the government’s objective is to end all armed rebellion in the country, thus any engagement with all armed groups from here on in will focus on disarmament, demobilization and rehabilitation (DDR).

“DDR is about the people and government telling armed groups to give up armed struggle. Change shall be defined primarily by the people and the government,” she said.

The shift in the government’s approach to ending conflicts underscores its rejection of any armed struggle as a means of achieving political and social change and a reaffirmation of its commitment to democracy.

“From negotiations, our focus shall shift to dialogues with the communities, or government conducting authentic conversations or dialogues with the people,” she said.

The President reiterated that all armed groups must account for their actions not only to the government but more importantly to the people.
“The force of arms does not entitle any armed group to represent the people,” she stressed.

ARMM officials condemn atrocities in Mindanao, calls on MILF leadership to take full responsibility

2008-08-22T04:50:00.000-07:00

The newly-elected officials in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) today challenged the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to take full responsibility for the criminal acts committed by its members and help bring the culprits before the law.
The new ARMM officials, who took their oath of office before President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo this morning in Malacanang, also condemned "in the strongest terms the senseless murder of innocent civilians, the wanton destruction of properties and the heartless disruption of the livelihood of many of our brothers in Mindanao."
In a press conference after the oath-taking ceremony, the ARMM officials also expressed their "unequivocal support for the sincere efforts of the national leadership to negotiate and forge an agreement towards genuine and lasting peace in Mindanao."
"We call on the MILF leadership to take full responsibility for the criminal acts committed by some elements of the MILF and to help bring these elements to justice," they said in a manifesto.
The newly re-elected ARMM officials who signed the manifesto include ARMM Governor Zaldy Ampatuan, ARMM Vice Governor Ansaruddin Adiong, Basilan Governor Jum Akbar, Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali, members of the ARMM Legislative Assembly, and the congressmen in the ARMM.
Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Secretary Gabriel Claudio accompanied the ARMM officials during the press conference.
The ARMM also stressed the need for the continuation of the ongoing peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the MILF.
Although atrocities did not happen in his home province of Sulu, Governor Tan said the MILF hierarchy must "help bring to justice the perpetrators of these criminal acts."
While condemning the MILF atrocities committed against innocent civilians, Tawi-Tawi Governor Sahali said the Mindanao peace negotiations must continue "because we believe that it is only through negotiation that we can have peace in Mindanao."
ARMM Governor Ampatuan said if the MILF truly represents the Bangsamoro people, it must adhere to peaceful solutions to resolve the fratricidal conflict in Mindanao.
As ARMM governor, Ampatuan condemned the MILF atrocities against innocent civilians, adding that the ARMM fully supports the President’s initiative to bring lasting peace and development to Mindanao.
"The leadership of the ARMM under my watch continues to support the leadership of PGMA toward attaining peace and development in Mindanao," Ampatuan said.

Sarangani villages activate defense force

2008-08-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

MAASIM, Sarangani– Sarangani town mayors were directed by Governor Migs Dominguez Wednesday (August 20) to organize a defense force in villages, particularly in coastal areas, to foil rouge armed groups from harming civilians.

The governor issued the order in the wake of Monday's dawn attack by suspected rogue elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in poblacion Maasim that killed two innocent civilians and wounded another.

Civilian volunteer organizations (CVOs) are authorized to carry firearms to defend the province from any intrusions of armed men.

Police regional director Felizardo Serapio has sent word that "civilians can be tapped with coordination with barangay captains and mayors," Dominguez said, a constitutional right to defend life and limbs as well as property.

The first priority to be closely monitored is the coastal areas for intrusion or withdrawal of enemy troops. "Orders are to engage if enemy is visible," he said.

Municipal Disaster Coordinating Councils were activated immediately to prepare for any outbreak of hostilities as government troops are pursuing the armed men who attacked Maasim.

A military commander assured military operations are in "confined places" and "not widespread" that could affect civilians.

Lt. Col. Joshua Santiago, commander of the 27th Infantry Batallion, said government troops "know where they (MILF) are and we are following them."
Santiago said the ongoing military operation is in response to the crimes committed by the lawless elements that ransacked some business establishments in Maasim public market and killed two innocent civilians.

Gov’t seeks review of controversial Memorandum on Agreement with MILF

2008-08-21T07:48:00.001-07:00

The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has submitted a manifestation to the Supreme Court (SC) calling for a “further review” of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Ancestral Domain to move forward the peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and finally bring lasting peace in Mindanao.

In his weekly media briefing in Malacanang, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Solicitor General Agnes Devanadera submitted the manifestation to the Supreme Court yesterday.

“We were informed by the Solicitor General that they have presented a manifestation before the Supreme Court that there will be further review of the existing documents, especially the MOA with the end in view of moving negotiations that would lead to the drafting of the final peace agreement,” Ermita said.

The Executive Secretary said that in her manifestation Devanadera pointed out that the two parties explained that the realization of the MILF aspiration for a Bangsamoro homeland “shall be achieved only by complying with the existing legal processes such as the enactment of appropriate legislation or amendment of the Constitution itself as well as the holding of a plebiscite.”

Ermita, clarified that the MOA is still not a final agreement since it is subject to certain conditions that have to be complied with.

“The issuance of the SC of a temporary restraining order (TRO), coupled by present condition in some areas of Mindanao, dictates that the MOA in its present form must undergo review,” he said.

Ermita said the Executive Department will pursue further negotiations leading to the crafting of a final peace agreement within the context of the Constitution.
He said the Supreme Court has an oral argument on the GRP-MILF MOA on Friday to thresh out the issues at bar at the soonest time possible.

Executive waiting for S.C. ruling on M.O.A. before proceeding with peace process – Dureza

2008-08-21T07:47:00.001-07:00

The executive branch will wait for the Supreme Court (SC) ruling on the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) before deciding whether or not to resume peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the wake of the MILF attacks on three provinces in Mindanao over the past two weeks.

This was revealed by Press Secretary Jesus G. Dureza in an interview with Radio DZBB this morning even as he stressed that the Arroyo administration will continue the search for a lasting peace in Mindanao. “Alam naman natin na ang pakay ng Pangulo is peace in Mindanao so we will continue working towards a peaceful settlement in Mindanao.”

However, the Press Secretary pointed out that “titingnan natin muna kung ano ang magiging final ruling ng Korte Suprema at doon tayo ngayon susunod, tatalima (we have to find out first what the SC ruling will be and that is what we will follow).”

Dureza stressed that the MOA-AD just has to be reviewed later on to incorporate the views of the Supreme Court “and in the light also of the incident in Mindanao dahil may question na ngayon -- ano ba talaga ito, totohanan ba ito?”

“Hintayin na lang natin kung ano iyong magiging ruling ng Korte Suprema. Pero sinasabi ko sa inyo, dahil kausap ko si SolGen Agnes Devanadera, iyong kanyang na-file na position ng ating gobyerno, eh, talagang sinabihan ang Korte Suprema na we will further review or renegotiate ang dokumento na iyan, dahil may mga opinyon ang ating mga mahistrado, and we are not insensitive to their views. Dapat pakinggan natin iyong views nila… “

Dureza said that the government is, in fact, no longer that interested in signing the MOA as is because a lot of water has passed under the bridge since the MOA was brought up for the High Court’s review.

“May na-file na parang bid… sa Korte Suprema ang ating Solicitor General na si Agnes Devanadera, at ang pakay nito is to tell the Supreme Court, number one, hindi na namin pipirmahan iyong MOA na iyan SG Agnes Devanadera has submitted a motion to the Supreme Court saying that government will no longer sign the MOA),” Dureza told program host Arnold Clavio.

The Press Secretary added, “Pangalawa, dahil kailangan may further negotiation, dapat tingnan iyong mga punto na sinabi ng mga Justices natin sa Korte Suprema at pag-aralan din itong insidente na nangyayari ngayon dito sa Mindanao (Second, because there is a need for further negotiation, we have to look at the points raised by the SC associate justices while studying the ongoing debacle in Mindanao.”
Dureza said the MOA-AD has to be analyzed as to whether or not it could be signed by the government “in the light of the comment given by the Supreme Court and also in the light of what is happening now in Mindanao.”

Policemen on 'active defense' as MILF extends attacks in Maasim town

2008-08-19T04:38:00.000-07:00

Maasim Municipal Police Station and Public Market of Poblacion of said town were simultaneously harassed by more or less 60 fully armed men believed to be members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) under the 107th Base Command early morning of August 18, 2008, at exactly 1:50 o’clock.

Stores in public market were robbed by the said group and carted away goods and medicines. For a few days now, the MILF forces have been diligent in staging series of hostilities in North Cotabato and Sarangani provinces.
Maasim MPS who has been on alert following the series of reported armed sightings and other intelligence reports for the staging of atrocities in said town successfully repelled the enemy attack.

There were seven reported casualties but as of press time, only two were confirmed dead, namely James Reymond Varon, 21 years old and Joelito Gerodias Omas, 34 years old. Elements of 2nd Company Regional Mobile Group 12 and the 82nd SAC, PNP SAF proceeded to the area for reinforcement and to prevent further injury to the community and damage to properties.
"Although the PNP adheres to maximum tolerance to give primacy to peace, it does not mean we will let them have their way in the faces of these provocations. With such provocations, we will have to deal with them with fair and justified force in protection of our policemen and the public. Our duty is to ensure public safety from harm by the MILF. As the MILF forces intensifies their attacks, we will be on an 'active defense mode', vigilant and alert," said PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR. Regional Director.
Notable are the simultaneous harassments of the five towns in North Cotabato attacking residents, burning houses affecting 25 barangays and 9 sitios resulting to evacuees totaling 11,410 families with dependents numbering to 51,421 and harassments of CAFGU detachments leaving one killed in action for the government side and three from the enemy side.Deputy Regional Director for Operations PSSUPT EDGAR P VALDELLON and Sarangani Provincial Director PSSUPT DANILO P PERALTA are at the area to oversee implementation of hot pursuit operation against the perpetrators.

Region 12 cops usher ITP Torch Run

2008-08-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

The executive director of the Program Management Office (PMO) of the ITP, who is also the PNP Deputy Director General for Administration, Chief Superintendent JESUS AME VERZOSA and other top ranking officials from the PNP National Headquarters led the symbolic 15th leg transformation torch run relay bearing the theme: “Running the race towards genuine transformation.”

More than 2,000 people joined this morning’s torch run of the PNP with no less than People’s Champ Mr. Manny Pacquiao joining the extra milers for the seven-kilometer PRO 12 PNP Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) Torch Run.

The PNP participants came from the respective police offices of the PNP’s National Support Units (NSUs), region’s four provincial, 2 city and 45 municipalities comprising region 12 joined by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 1002nd Bde, Task Force GenSan, GAs, NGOs, barangay intelligence networks (BINs), private sectors, criminology students from different colleges and members of the clergy.
With PCSUPT ANDRES CARO II, regional director of PRO 11 as torch bearer, the event kicked off at 5:30 a.m. today - taking the route from General Santos City Fishport in Barangay Tambler to the regional headquarters of Police Regional Office 12. PCSUPT CARO formally turned-over the torch to PRO 12 Regional Director PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR. as facilitated by PDDG VERZOSA, who in turn turned-over miniature torches to the different city and provincial directors in the region
The “Transformation Torch Run,” is now on its 15th leg and seeks to inform the public about the PNP’s 10-year integrated transformation program (ITP). It aims to bring the symbol of reform to the 17 police regional offices across the country and create a candid awareness of the various projects under the ITP. The Program presents a comprehensive and holistic approach to reform the PNP with its honest-to-goodness assessment of its present institutional framework policies, systems, structures, and procedures.
PDDG VERZOSA described the Region 12 crowd as the most jubilant delegation so far in the entire country. This region is also unique for it started the formal turn-over of the transformation torch with a flag-raising ceremony.
The torch will be relayed from one police unit to another here in region 12 for 15 days before it will be brought to the second to the last leg, Region 9 (Zamboanga region), with ARMM being the last leg of the run.
The torch is the beacon that carries the light symbolizing the transformation program being undertaken by the PNP to turn itself into a more capable, effective and credible police service. As a light turn away darkness, so does the torch inspire, motivate and encourage the men and women of the PNP to never lose hope, press on and run the race towards genuine transformation.
The PNP priority projects included in the transformation program are PNP housing, health care system, legal assistance program to police officers who are facing job-related cases, strengthening of their values and leadership school.
Also included in the program are a proposed legislation to remove pending cases as disqualification for promotion of PNP uniformed personnel if the cases are service-related; upgrading of the PNP Crime Laboratory and mobilization and communication equipment and logistics improvement.
On the press briefing, it was emphasized that the entire PNP is not only ready to achieve reforms under the ITP but has been seriously working to finish its target for year 2015.
“As I accept this ITP Torch, allow me to solicit everyone’s cooperation and support to PRO 12 and the PNP National leadership in this campaign. Lend the PNP your strength and support to this noble PNP program so that together we will be able to call the PNP the premier law enforcement body in the country. Join us in this advocacy and continue to be the vocal, creative and even critical participants in improving our organization”, said PCSUPT SERAPIO in his acceptance message.
PDDG VERZOSA said in his message that the PNP transformation torch is “envisioned to blaze a path of positive change in the PNP to make it capable, effective and credible which will meet the needs of the Filipino people. He further added that said project will brings reforms to the grassroots level under the so-called “model police station” and will showcase police reforms in terms of upgraded facilities and highly trained and motivated personnel.
The activity was highlighted by the planting of Norfolk pine trees that served as the PRO 12 transformation tree. On August 29, PCSUPT SERAPIO will turn over the torch to PRO 9

“Send to jail anyone who violates the law, most specially my own relatives,” says Dureza

2008-08-15T06:01:00.000-07:00

Press Secretary Jesus Dureza stressed today that nobody is above the law, not even his relatives who must be meted appropriate punishment if they violate the law.

“I hope they quickly send to jail anyone who violates the law, most specially my own relatives,” Dureza said when asked for reaction on an incident in Davao City where his nephew was arrested early this morning for allegedly firing a 9-mm pistol and engaging police in a car chase.

Radio reports have it that John Paul Dureza, said to be the nephew of Secretary Dureza faces charges of indiscriminate firing, and possible charges of physical injury after a man was hit by a stray bullet from the shooting.

Initial investigation showed that John Paul Dureza fired his weapon along Florentino Torres St. in Davao City before dawn, prompting neighbors to seek police assistance.

The report added that he even tried to elude police, engaging them in a chase that ended when he was cornered at the Ecoland Subdivision.

A 9-mm pistol he allegedly used in the shooting was recovered from him.
He admitted firing his pistol and apologized, claiming he had some personal problems, the report said.

Gov’t forces directed to ensure renegade MILF forces do not return to 15 barangays

2008-08-15T06:00:00.001-07:00

Malacanang has directed the military to ensure that any attempt by the breakaway forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to return to the North Cotabato barangays they had forcibly occupied does not succeed.
In his regular midweek press briefing yesterday, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said although the last of the MILF forces had vacated the 15 barangays, the military will pursue follow-up operations to make sure that the MILF troops do not return to the beleaguered areas.
On various occasions earlier last week, the MILF forces led by Commander Umbra Kato were reported to have abandoned their position, but it all turned out their simulated departure was only part of the rebels’ tactical maneuver. They did not leave the occupied areas until Wednesday.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s order to the military was to drive away the renegade MILF forces and stop them from returning to the barangays they had forcibly occupied, Ermita said.
The government, he added, will not "stand idly by without doing something to defend our hapless citizens."
He quoted Defense Chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. as saying that combined military and police forces will stay put in the 15 affected barangays to ensure the residents’ safety.
President Arroyo was informed that government forces had driven away the MILF forces from the barangays, and that military-police elements were remaining in the "liberated’ areas to "give some degree of confidence to the residents that they will not be molested by the MILF renegades" again.
Reports from Teodoro, PNP Director General Avelino Razon and Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral said that the number of displaced families, which was earlier placed at 15,000, was bloated, Ermita said.
He said that the latest trouble-making in North Cotabato underscores the need for the MILF leadership to ensure that its members faithfully heed its directive and stop harassing military and police detachments as a sign of goodwill.
It is imperative, Ermita said, that the MILF manifests its interest in pursuing the peace process with the government.
"Pangalawa, to show goodwill naman and as a sign of confidence-building, sana naman ay gawin ng pamunuan ng MILF na orderan talaga iyong mga puwersa sa buong Mindanao, in this case Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, upang sa ganun ay itigil na iyong mga harassment nila ng mga isolated detachments ng pulis at saka military.
Ermita added that the AFP is also checking on Abu Sayyaf areas because renegade MILF bands are known to seek refuge in Abu Sayyaf-controlled areas to evade pursuing government forces.
"From the very beginning, alam naman natin na iyong collusion na iyan exists on the ground. That’s why, I recall, the very purpose while there is part of the ceasefire mechanism na tinatawag na ADJAG – Adhoc Joint Action Group – kung saan ay titingnan ng dalawang panig na ang mga enclave, ang mga lugar na pinagkakampuhan ng MILF ay hindi nagagamit na taguan ng mga Abu Sayyaf, at iyan ay dapat rikisahin through the ADJAG.

MILF leadership must compel its forces to stop harassing activities -- Ermita

2008-08-14T18:39:00.000-07:00

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) hierarchy should compel their ground commanders to stop harassment and other activities that undermine the ongoing peace process in Mindanao, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said today.

He said that government forces have finally dislodged some 200 MILF members from the 15 barangays in North Cotabato that the latter had forcibly occupied.

At his weekly media briefing this afternoon in Malacanang, Ermita said he was told by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro that government forces had “driven away the MILF renegades from occupied barangays.”

When contacted by Ermita, Teodoro was in Pikit supervising the military operations in the area.

According to Teodoro, police forces will remain in the area to ensure the safety of about 15,000 displaced families who are slowly trekking back to their homes.

“He (Teodoro) is hopeful that within two days a great majority (of the evacuees) will have already returned to their homes,” Ermita said.

He added that government forces were continuing mopping up operations to ensure that breakaway MILF bands no longer pose a threat to the communities in North Cotabato.

“The action of the government as ordered by President Arroyo resulted in driving them (MILF members) away. The national government will not stand idly by and not do something to defend our hapless citizens,” Ermita said.

The armed clashes between the renegade MILF guerillas led by Commander Datu Umbra Kato and government forces started last Friday after the rebels illegally occupied certain areas in Midsayap, Aleosan and Pikit, all in North Cotabato.

. Last Thursday, the military issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the MILF to vacate the areas they had occupied following last month’s sporadic encounters in the towns of Aleosan, Libungan, Midsayap, North Kabuntalan and Pigkawayan.

The fighting forced thousands of civilians to flee their homes.

Ermita said authorities have launched an investigation into the MILF takeover of the villages, and charges would be filed against Umbra Kato, the leader of the defiant MILF command, if evidence warrants.

“If he is found not to have followed orders from the MILF hierarchy in conducting depredations” such as marauding, burning of houses and even confiscating the harvests of hapless civilians, charges will be filed against him, Ermita said.

He said the MILF leadership should demonstrate that it is sincere in wanting peace in Mindanao by ordering its commanders to stop activities that undermine the ongoing peace process in Mindanao.

“As a sign of confidence building, the MILF hierarchy must order all their forces in Mindanao to stop harassing isolated detachments of the police and military. Para maipakita nila na interested pa rin sila sa pagsulong ng peace process,” Ermita said.

He said that to avoid “miscommunication,” the MILF hierarchy should also stop the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group from using MILF areas as safer grounds whenever they are hunted down by government forces.

Asked about reports that the military had discovered landmines planted by the renegade MILF members, Ermita said the MILF must not resort to such activities as it would create an international uproar.

The international treaty against the use of landmines was ratified in 1997 in Ottawa, Canada by more than 150 countries, including the Philippines.

Ermita said the MILF leadership should order the immediate dismantling of the landmines and refrain strictly from using the outlawed explosives.

“Otherwise, it will not only be the Philippine government that would be running hammer and thongs against them, but they will get sanctions from the world body -- the United Nations. So I wish that they will voluntarily dismantle those landmines,” Ermita said.
The GRP and MILF peace panels and members of the International Monitoring Team are now monitoring the situation in North Cotabato to ensure that peace is maintained in the area.
The military has linked the MILF attacks to North Cotabato’s opposition to its inclusion n the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity (BJE) under the memorandum of agreement on ancestral domain.

The MILF, however, denied that they had illegally occupied the villages, claiming that government militias had attacked them and even linked clashes in other areas in North Cotabato to land conflict and clan wars.

On Aug. 4, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) directing representatives of the GRP and the MILF “to cease and desist” from formally signing the MOA on Ancestral Domain of the BJE based on the petition of North Cotabato Governor Jesus Sacadalan, North Cotabato Vice Governor Emmanuel Piñol , Zamboanga City Mayor Celso Lobregat, Zamboanga City 1st District Rep. Ma. Isabelle Climaco, and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Erico Basilio Fabian.

Ermita said the Office of the Solicitor General has already submitted to the SC and the petitioners copies of the final draft of the MOA, and that the High Court has scheduled an oral argument on the issues raised by the parties involved in the case on Friday (Aug. 15).
He also quoted leading constitutionalist Fr. Joaquin Bernas who said that there is nothing to worry about the MOA on Ancestral Domain as it is “just a piece of paper” and would not lead to a separate Bangsamoro state in Mindanao until Congress acted on it and a plebiscite was held in the area.

Speculations on extension of PGMA’s term limit totally baseless -- Dureza

2008-08-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Press Secretary Jesus Dureza today squelched as totally baseless opposition charges that a shift from presidential to a federal system of government through an amendment of the Constitution would open the way for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to extend her term beyond 2010.

In radio interviews this morning, Dureza stressed that Malacanang is supporting Senate Joint Resolution No. 10 because it jibes with the administration’s and the Filipino people’s aspirations for a lasting peace in Mindanao.

The Senate resolution calls for the convening of “Congress into a constituent assembly for the purpose of revising the Constitution to establish a Federal System of government.”

Backed by 16 senators, or about two-thirds of the total membership of the upper chamber, among the principal authors of the resolution are Senate President Manuel Villar and Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr.

He pointed out that on various occasions in the past, the President reiterated that she would step down when her term ends in 2010.

“Hindi po siya magpapa-extend. Kaya nga sinusuportahan natin iyong sinabi ng mga senador na gagawin nila na magcha-charter change to Constituent Assembly, dahil iyong resolution na iyon, wala hong extension of term limit iyon. Klarong-klaro po iyon,” Dureza said.

“Kung minsan kasi, masyadong negatibo tayo kaya pati iyong reporma natin na gusto nating ipairal ay parang nagkokontrol ng ating ginagawa… dapat naman tingnan natin kung ano iyong reporma,” he added.

Among the main features of the Senate resolution is the creation of 11 states out of the Philippine Republic, including the Bangsa Moro State.

Dureza, who served as Presidential Adviser for the Peace Process (PAPP) before he was tapped by the President as press secretary, pointed out that the stalled memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Ancestral Domain with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is good not only for the Muslims but also for the Christians not only in Mindanao but the entire country.

The MOA is pending review in the Supreme Court which issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) last week to stop the Philippine government from signing the agreement.

“Yong ancestral domain sa MOA, ito’y hindi lamang para sa Muslim community. This will bring peace to the whole of Mindanao, including Christians alike, dahil pagna-address natin iyong problema na iyan, then we will have peace and development in the whole of Mindanao, hindi lang sa Muslim communities, ano po.

“So, isa sa mga dati na natin sinasabi pa, siguro hindi lang nakinig ang bansa, the way to be able to do this is to amend the Charter,” Dureza said.

Himself a Mindawanon, Dureza said that the agreement is intended “specifically to set up a system there (Mindanao) that will provide opportunity na lahat ng mga taga-Mindanao magkaisa.

“Ito iyong MOA natin doon sa MILF. Kasi iyong atin kasing negotiation with the MILF, para klaro sa lahat, hindi lang ito ho para sa MILF ha -- para sa buong Muslim communities ito at para din ito sa Christian communities dahil huhupa ang problema natin sa Mindanao,” he said.

“So, nang napag-usapan iyan, ang sabi natin, naku, we cannot do--we know naman na ang ating alam, hindi puwedeng magawa ito kung hindi natin i-amyenda iyong Charter, specifically to set up a federal set-up in Southern Philippines in Mindanao for our Muslim communities.

“Kaya ang Resolution No. 10 na nakabinbin sa Senado, labing-anim ho ang nagsusuporta na diyan really to set up a federal system and among them the Bangsamoro state,” he added.

Dureza said that the administration’s support for the Senate resolution would, hopefully, hasten the government’s earlier plan to grant the Muslims their own autonomous area, for starters.

“Ako, ang aking ‘take’ – personal ‘take’ as press secretary -- naku, alam natin na ang mga senador, paninindigan nila iyong kanilang katayuan. And so, pagsinuportahan iyan ng administrasyon ay mapabilis natin itong problema na ito at ma-set up agad natin iyong gusto nating i-set up for peace in the whole country,” he said.

Dureza said the country should be thankful to Senator Pimentel for authoring the resolution whose clear aim is only to shift to federalism and not to extend anybody’s term, nor for the government to shift to a parliamentary system.

“Dapat siguro magpasalamat ang bansa kay Senator Nene (Pimentel), dahil klarong-klaro iyong kanyang adhikain -- federalismo -- at alam ko ang taga-Mindanao ay kasamang-kasama diyan, front seats kami diyan sa kanyang federal trajectory,” he said.

“Kaya sinuportahan iyong kanyang Senate Resolution No. 10 dahil klarong-klaro doon na ang sadya noon walang extension of term limit at walang shift to the parliamentary system. Klarong-klaro ho ang posisyon diyan namin, na doon kami susuporta sa kanya.

“At alam naman natin na kung meron mga ibang tao diyan na may ibang agenda, with due respect to them, at hindi sadya iyong ating objective of a federal set-up pero sasakyan ito, definitely alam ko na hindi makakalusot rin iyan dahil nandiyan ang Senado at nandiyan si Nene Pimentel at iyong mga taga-Mindanao na ang adhikain lamang ay federal system to stop it and will frustrate any of these attempts,” he said.

Dureza added: “That’s the reason why ang ating suporta doon sa kanilang Resolution No. 10. And I hope… tuluy-tuloy na itong Charter change to bring about (a) federal set-up dahil 16 of the senators sumusuporta na doon, no less than the principal author is Senate President Villar.”
“At kung magsusuporta ngayon ang administrasyon congressmen doon sa House… eh di tuluy-tuloy ang Charter change. But it is really specifically to support Resolution No. 10, at ang tingin ko naman, ang Palasyo will not support anything outside of that dahil alam mo naman magsabing, ‘uy! ginagamit na naman ang Charter change para tuloy na naman si Presidente.’ Hindi ho, that is very clear in our mind—that is very clear kaya iyon ang aming punto diyan.”

COTABATO SITUATION

2008-08-13T00:57:00.000-07:00

On 4:00 p.m. of August 8, 2008, civilian volunteer organization (CVO) members of Brgy. Tapudok, Aleosan, Cotabato were harassed by MILF forces under comdr Jorge Casim/Comdr Bruce Lee of 105th Base Command.
On 8:30 p.m. of same date, CVOs of Brgy. Kulambog, Pikit, Cotabato were also harassed by the same group. No casualty was reported. Populace of brgys. Tapudok, Aleosan and Kolambog, Pikit, Cotabato evacuated to Poblacion, Pikit and nearby barangays. PNP and AFP units assisted the CVOs and civilian populace in the area.
At about 6:30 a.m., August 9, 2008, a certain Mr. Felandro Licudo Magpale, while wrapping the fruits at the mango plantation owned by Ms. Mila Capa at Brgy. Pagangan 1, Aleosan, Cotabato, was fired upon by heavily armed men positioning at the mountainous portion of the said place and that for the safety of his life, he abandoned the area. Upon receipt of the report, elements of Aleosan MPS together with members of the 40th IB, PA proceeded to the area to identify the perpetrators.
As the PNP went to the area, information was received that a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was discovered along the National Highway particularly at Brgy. Dalengaoen, Pikit, Cotabato. Pikit PNP verified and secured the reported area while EOD team from the Philippine Army based at Midsayap, Cotabato and the Provicnial Capitol Compound, Kidapawan City were dispatched to confirm the veracity of the report and for possible detonation of the suspected IED.
As of 091700 August 2008, general situation of region 12 is normal.
An IED was discovered at about 091045 August 2008 along the National Highway, Brgy. Dalengaoen, Pikit, Cotabato. Elements of Pikit MPS, 1201st PPMG and 66th EODT, PA immediately proceeded to the said place to conduct investigation. Intelligence report stated that there was an attempt to sabotage the NAPOCOR Transmission Tower 48 situated at the said area. Said EODT recovered the following IED components: detonator, tie wire and cut motorcycle tires.
On August 9, 2008 at about 8:30 a.m., joint elements of 7th IB, PA and Pikit MPS established tactical command post (TCP) at the boundary of Brgys. Kulambog and Tapudok, Pikit, Cotabato to secure residents and preempt any harassments by MILF forces. Presence of MILF forces is still monitored at brgys. Langayin, Tpudok and Bualan, all of Pikit, Cotabato. Evacuation center for Muslims was established at Brgy. Manaulanan and for Christians at Silik and Pikit Parish Gym.
On August 9, 2008, 9:41 p.m., verbal instruction of regional director PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR. to place the whole region into full alert. In anticipation of the conduct of MILF diversionary operations particularly in Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat provinces by attacking PNP/AFP units, vital installations and town centers and of the possible taking advantage of the communist terrorists (CTs) of the present situation to conduct tactical offensives in CT areas, all PNP units regionwide is directed to maintain full alert status, strengthen defense stations, intensify intel monitoring and coordination with AFP counterparts in the AOR.

SERAPIO orders 5,000 police to go on full alert

2008-08-13T00:55:00.000-07:00

Regional Director PCSUPT FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR. placed the almost 5,000-member Police Regional Office 12 force on full alert in anticipation of the escalation of conflict in Cotabato Province, conduct of diversionary operations of the MILF particularly in Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat provinces by attacking PNP and AFP units, vital installations and town centers.
The order was also in the probability of the taking advantage of the communist terrorists (CTs) of the present situation and conduct tactical offensives in their areas.
The full alert status took effect on August 6, 2008 and all uniformed personnel were advised to strengthen the defense stations, intensify intelligence monitoring and coordinate with AFP counterparts in the area.
Relatedly, police offices of regions 8, 9, 10 and 11 sent RMG forces to augment the local police in the province of North Cotabato and also in anticipation of the spill over of the election-related atrocities come tomorrow’s, August 11, 2008, ARMM election.
PCSUPT SERAPIO gave the assurance that the police organization remains vigilant for any possible terrorist attack.

PNP LAUNCHES ONLINE MOST WANTED PERSON REGISTRY

2008-08-13T00:53:00.000-07:00

The database of all Most Wanted Persons throughout the country can now be accessed in the internet as the Computer Service of the Philippine National Police launched the Online Most Wanted Person Registry.
PNP Chief Director General Avelino I Razon Jr. ordered the PNP Computer Service to put together all the most wanted persons of police field investigative and operational units on a nationwide scale.
"This 24-hour online site will be very effective in immediately alerting all police offices throughout the country as well as the public of the possibility that a person in their community is a most wanted person", said the PNP Chief.
The site includes pictures, vital information of these fugitives and the monetary reward for any information that will lead to their apprehension.
Presently topping the online most wanted list is Jose Sarmiento Panlilio alias "Bong", wanted for robbery and homicide with a P5M bounty. Panlilio is the primary suspect in the killing of brothers Ariel C Real and Albert C Gutierrez on July 15, 2003 in Calamba City, Laguna.
Computer Service Director, Police Chief Superintendent Teofilo Melliza Jr said that this online registry is part of the PNP Modernization Program that includes innovation in preventing and resolving crimes through information technology.
"The public, specially those with access to the internet are encouraged to regularly check the PNP Online Most Wanted Person Registry so they can be wary of these criminals and to report to the nearest police office any information they have on these fugitives", said General Melliza.
This online gallery of most wanted individuals can be accessed through the PNP website (http://www.pnp.gov.ph) or by visiting the direct link (https://registry.pnp.gov.ph/mwp).

Occupiers of 5 non-MILF barangays warned to leave peacefully or face punitive action

2008-08-08T03:42:00.000-07:00

The government has given alleged members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), who have taken over five barangays in North Cotabato, 24 hours to leave the occupied areas peacefully or face police-military “punitive” action.

Press Secretary Jesus Dureza told members of the media covering Malacanang this afternoon that the countdown for the occupiers to leave the civilian areas peacefully started at 10 a.m. today.

The armed men have occupied the five non-MILF barangays since Sunday.

Dureza pointed out that while the government is prepared to “walk the extra mile” to resolve the long-festering Mindanao conflict, the forcible occupation of the five barangays and the burning of the houses in the area by MILF forces were clear violations of the government-MILF ceasefire agreement.

“This is a clear violation of laws, but we have to exhaust the mechanisms of the peace process. There is a 24-hour period allowed by security forces to follow the peace process,” he said.

The government will take punitive action to “protect the civilians” if the problem cannot be resolved peacefully, he added.

Dureza described punitive option open to the security forces of the government as “a surgical, calibrated police action to be supported by the AFP if necessary.”

The marauding occupiers numbering more than 800 also torched 72 houses, forcing 5,000 residents of the occupied areas to flee their homes and seek shelter in evacuation centers.

Dureza said that a hopeful note in the latest explosive situation in Mindanao was the convening of the Mindanao ceasefire committee to take up the matter.
The committee was set to meet at 5 p.m. today.

Gov’t. to “walk the extra mile” to resolve the forcible occupation by the MILF of some barangays and towns in North Cotabato

2008-08-08T03:34:00.000-07:00

The government will “have to walk the extra mile” to resolve the present conflict in North Cotabato brought about by the forcible takeover by some 850 armed men of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) since Sunday of some barangays and towns in the province, displacing some 5,000 individuals.

Press Secretary Jesus Dureza, in a press briefing in Malacanang this afternoon, said a meeting set at 5 p.m. today between the MILF and the government peace panel ceasefire committee is expected to resolve the issue peacefully.

“This is a clear violation of laws but we have to exhaust all the remedies under the mechanisms of the peace process. There is a 24-hour period allowed by security forces to follow the peace process. There is a ceasefire agreement…before any punitive action will be taken,” Dureza stressed.

Earlier, Dureza said government security forces have given the MILF armed group 24 hours to leave the barangays and towns it has occupied by force in North Cotabato province or face police and military action.

"We are giving individuals 24 hours to vacate otherwise they will forcibly be separated from the area," Local Governments Secretary Ronaldo Puno said in a press conference at the national police headquarters in Camp Crame this morning.

Dureza said the military and the police will take punitive action if the MILF failed to meet deadline.

“This is a clear violation by the MILF of the ceasefire agreement…that their armed elements without prior coordination with the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, occupied these civilian areas that include Aleosan and Midsayap,” Dureza said.

He added that the government will take punitive actions to “protect the civilians.”

The press secretary said punitive action means “a surgical, calibrated police action to be supported by the AFP if necessary.”

“This morning up to tomorrow is an opportunity for a peaceful mechanism to succeed,” he stressed.

Dureza said AFP Chief General Alexander Yano was in Cotabato province to brief commanders on the government’s plan of action.

Dureza echoed Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Presidential Adviser Hermogenes Esperon’s view when Dureza said that the government wants to stabilize the situation and put back the rightful owners of those lands.

Dureza has clarified that the proposed government action was not a declaration of war.
“This is not a declaration of war, this is a normal enforcement of the rule of law,” Dureza stressed.

28 Rebel Returnees Received Cash Assistance

2008-08-08T03:13:00.000-07:00

28 Rebel Returnees Received Cash Assistance
Under the Social Integration Program of OPAPP

Twenty-eight former members of the CPP/NPA’s Far South Mindanao
Regional Command were each given P20,000.00 cash assistance through the Social Integration Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process.
Under the program, the rebel returnees could receive a package of livelihood assistance aside from the remuneration of the firearms that they surrendered to the government. As the rebels are integrated back into the society, they will be given livelihood projects that would benefit not only their families but also the communities to where they belong.

Most of the rebel returnees were from Barangay Datal Angas of the Municipality of Alabel while others came from the hinter barangays of Malapatan, Sarangani and Malita, Davao del Sur. Of the total nember, the 24 former NPA members returned to the folds of the law last year and were formally accepted by the local government, the AFP and PNP. The other four only surrendered yesterday yielding two (2) garand rifles, a homemade M79 grenade launcher, a 12 gauge shotgun and several ammunitions.

In an interview, Eufemio Diamante @ Janggo said that the government program is abig help for them as they returned back to their respective communities. @ Janggo narrated that he returned to the folds of the law after he realized that they were only used by the NPA’s in the extortion activities, which only benefited their commanders. He also cited that he found himself deceived when the propaganda of @ Warren at the time he was recruited.

The giving of cash assistance was done at the Provincial Capital of Sarangani immediately after the Peace and Order Council of Sarangani and he Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process came up with a resolution of joint partnership in the implementation of the Social Integration Program.

The 1002 Brigade on the other hand, enjoined the NPA’s in its area of responsibility to follow their comrades and avail of the government’s program. According to Bgen Pangilinan, his Brigade is willing to assist the NPA’s who intend to return to the folds of the law and embrace peace.

Probe body to look into broadcaster’s shooting

2008-08-04T23:41:00.000-07:00

GENERAL SANTOS CITY: The Philippine National Police (PNP) is creating a Special Task Force in a bid to resolve the soonest possible time the shooting of Dennis Cuesta, 35, a radio commentator of DxMD-Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) who is at present in critical condition.
Police Chief Superintendent FELIZARDO M SERAPIO, JR., Central Mindanao Chief, ordered the creation of Task Force “Cuesta” to be composed of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division (RIDMD), Regional Intelligence Division (RID) and Public Information Office to ensure a coordinated effort in the investigation and prioritize the immediate resolution of the case.
The incident took place approximately 4:30 in the afternoon yesterday, August 4, 2008 along National Highway fronting the Novitiate Square adjacent to DxCP Radio Station. PINSP LAURO ESPIDA, Chief of Police Station 03, reported that the victim was shot several times by two unidentified malefactors riding in tandem on a motorcycle.

Initial investigation disclosed that the suspects approached the victim from behind and shot him five times at close range using caliber .45 pistol. Cuesta was rushed to St. Elizabeth Hospital for medical treatment and is presently being secured by General Santos City Police.
PCSUPT SERAPIO, Jr. said they are considering several angles regarding the motive of the shooting, among them work-related for his being very hard-hitting radio commentator and possibly for his being witness to an illegal detention case.
PCSUPT SERAPIO admitted that they are strongly looking at such angle as motive but pointed out that they do not have any evidence on hand yet that would link the shooting.
“We cannot use these circumstances as evidence. We need to gather hard evidences and witnesses”, he addedPNP Regional Crime Laboratory Office 12 conducted crime scene investigation and conducted inventory of the belongings. Anyone with information about this case could contact TF Cuesta at (083) 301-5083 or PNP Hotline 117/166 immediately.

Communist rebels’ criminal activities must be stopped - PGMA

2008-08-04T06:45:00.000-07:00

TUGUEGARAO, Cagayan -- “The ideological nonsense and criminal activities of the Communist rebels must be stopped permanently to catapult the Philippines to a modernized country by 2020,” President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said today.

At the closing of the two-day Local Peace and Security Assembly (LPSA) held at the Roma Hotel here, the President received a resolution from the multi-sectoral stakeholders in Region II urging concerned agencies of the national and local governments to hasten the implementation of all measures needed “to strengthen and defend our region against all forms of aggression.”

In her speech, the President stressed the need to end Communist atrocities and other human rights abuses that impede the progress and development of a number of rural areas.

“If we are to become a First World country, as you said in your resolution, we have to put a stop to their ideological nonsense and their criminal acts once and for all. Our instruction, our goal is they must be stopped by 2020. That is what we want to do,” the President said.

“For years,” the President said, “the Communist rebels have been a low-level threat, and it is time for their disruption and violation of human rights to be put to rest so that the nation can move ahead.”

“But to the rebels who genuinely and sincerely speak peace, we shall respond in kind. The most important part of our counter-strategy is the soft power of economic progress, dialogue and continuing efforts to arrive at mutual understanding,” the President said.
The President said the government is continuously devising programs to advance peace and development in the country that include human rights advocacy and a social integration program for rebels wanting to return to the mainstream of society. It is no longer necessary to lose lives on both sides of the conflict when so many opportunities are now available to improve the people’s welfare, the President said.

Peace in Mindanao to open floodgates to development of resource-rich region

2008-08-04T06:43:00.000-07:00

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said yesterday peace in Mindanao would open the floodgates to the development of the resource-rich region, which has been caught in an alternating current of bloody conflict and an uneasy peace over the last 50 years.

In her State of the Nation Address (SONA) yesterday at the opening of the second regular session of the 14th Congress at the Batasan Complex in Quezon City, the President lamented that the development of Mindanao, the Philippines’ original “Land of Promise,” has been derailed by the unresolved conflict in the area.

Kidnappings for ransom by the bandit group Abu Sayyaf have added a highly combustible mix to the Mindanao conflict.

In her 2006 SONA, the President identified Mindanao, along with North Luzon, as the country’s food basket.

But while the development of North Luzon’s agricultural potentials continues to gain momentum, that of Mindanao has failed to keep pace with that of Luzon.

The poverty statistics say it all. The President said Mindanao does not only have some of the highest poverty incidences, six of the country’s poorest provinces are in Mindanao.

The principal reason for poverty in the area is the endless conflict, President Arroyo pointed out.

Mindanao has not been wanting in sympathy from countries offering help to lift the region and its people from poverty. These countries include Libya, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Canada, Japan and Australia.

No other region in the country has received so much assurance of assistance than Mindanao.

In her 2006 SONA, President thanked the various donors and multinationals for helping her administration’s efforts to establish a lasting peace and promote development in Mindanao.

“I take this occasion to express our gratitude to the donor community from the US, the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), and the European Union, Australia, Japan, our Asean neighbors, the multinationals and the rest of the world.

She pointed out that with peace in Mindanao, “we would reap dividends in resources invested in agribusiness, not aggression, to build up, not tear down, the Philippine south.”

The volatility of the Mindanao situation and the zig and zag of the quest for lasting peace in Mindanao was amply demonstrated once again when, a day before the President’s 8th SONA, the talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Kuala Lumpur collapsed over the crucial issue of ancestral domain.

But within hours, the talks was back on track. The President herself announced the good news in her SONA. “But last night, differences on the tough issue of ancestral domain were resolved. Yes, there are political dynamics among the people of Mindanao. Let us sort them out with utmost sobriety and patience,” she said, as she asked Congress to act on pivotal reforms that would lead to a “just and lasting peace (in Mindanao) during our term of office.”
She added: “The demands of decency and compassion urge dialogue. Better talk than fight, if nothing of sovereign value is anyway lost. Dialogue has achieved more than confrontation in many parts of the world.”

Communist rebels’ criminal activities must be stopped - PGMA

2008-08-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

DPCR awards two deserving individuals in the region

2008-08-04T06:32:00.000-07:00

PNP Press Release No. 07-11-323
Authority : PSSUPT CASIMERO B MEDES MPA, DSC
Public Information Office 12
Mobile No. 09286260217/
rpio_pro12hqs@yahoo.comDate : Friday, August 1, 2008

In connection with the culminating ceremony of the 13th Police Community Relations Month on July 28, 2008 at the National Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City, the Philippine National Police presented awards to PNP units and its personnel, as well as to the organizations and individuals for their invaluable contributions to the various police community relations activities that greatly help in the attainment of the mission of the PNP. In region 12, the recipients of awards were SPO2 Diogenes P Hare of Sto. Niño Police Station, South Cotabato ( Senior Police Community Relations PNCO 2008) and Hadji Usman O Mudsol, Chairman of Sarangani PNP Salaam Council (Special Award for an individual). During the awarding, they were escorted by Senior Superintendent Casimero B Medes, DSC, Chief of the Police Community relations Division 12.