DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Bishop Delfin Callao of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente and convener of the Exodus for Justice and Peace has expressed dismay over the spate of human rights abuses reported in Pantukan town in the southern Philippine province of Compostela Valley.
"I am worried that in barely five months after we have documented and reported grave human rights abuses in several areas in the region, the same pattern of abuses are now stalking farmers in another Comval town, this time in Pantukan," the bishop said in a statement.
He said the EJP led a high profile International Solidarity Mission in May which probed the areas of Paquibato District, New Bataan town, Mount Diwalwal, and in Santa Cruz.The mission was attended by Representative Satur Ocampo and more than 300 foreign, local and national delegates.
The EJP said it supported the filing of petition by Pantukan farmers and the residents which called for the immediate pull out of the military in the area and the indemnification of the victims for the damages and human rights abuses allegedly committed by soldiers of the Army's 10th Infantry Division.
The municipal chapter of Anakpawis Party list and the victims together with human rights group Karapatan and EJP, were supposed to file the petition Wednesday but was stalled after they were informed of a pending schedule for the reorganization of the Municipal Peace and Order Council.
"The Mayor informed us about the recent MPOC re-organization and after discussions with him we informed him that we shall file the petition within this week,” the bishop said.
The group said that in less than three weeks, there were already 1,042 victims of human rights abuses in Pantukan alone. This was reported during the two-day fact-finding mission conducted in Compostela Valley early this month.
“The situation is getting worse. The reports of the human rights violations committed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines continue to increase and have even spread to other municipalities such as in Pantukan and Maragusan in Compostela Valley Province, Talaingod in Davao del Norte, and Bagangga and San Isidro in Davao Oriental,” the bishop said.
“With an alarming situation like this we really have to push for immediate response, on our part we are planning to conduct another national fact-finding mission in order to conduct investigation on the affected areas and provide assistance for the victims of the human rights violations,” he added.
EJP will spearhead a National Fact-finding Mission to look into the effects of this relentless deployment of military troops in Davao region this month.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Human rights abuses alarm groups in Mindanao
EU and Philippines to address issue of Extra-Legal Killings
MANILA, Philippines - Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita and Ambassador Alistair MacDonald, Head of Delegation of the European Commission to the Philippines, signed Thursday the Financing Agreement for the EU-Philippine Justice Support Program.
Also present at the ceremony were Ambassador Luis Arias Romero of Spain, representing the Presidency of the European Union; Ambassador Cristina Ortega, Philippine Ambassador to the EC; and James Moran, Director for Asia in the Directorate-General of External Relations, European Commission, Brussels.
Ambassador MacDonald said: “The EU has been happy to respond positively to the Government’s request to provide technical assistance to help the Philippines address the question of extra-legal or extra-judicial killings."
"The EPJUST program now agreed will help all stakeholders in the Philippines – both from government and from civil society, as well as the relevant constitutional bodies – to work together to bring an end to extra-legal killings and enforced disappearances, of political activists, journalists, trades unionists or farmers’ representatives, and to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators.”
The Ambassador added that “while the incidence of these killings has declined significantly since 2007, it is regrettable that there has as yet been so few convictions in relation to the killings of political activists.”
The EC has allocated an amount of 3.9 million euros (approximately 270 million pesos) to cover the cost of the EPJUST program, which over a period of eighteen months will provide support, advice, technical assistance and training in areas such as strengthening the criminal justice system - investigation, prosecution, judiciary - providing support for the Commission on Human Rights and for civil society groups working in this area, and including human rights awareness training for the police and military.
In addition, the program will include support for the establishment of a credible and effective national monitoring system, which will bring together all Philippine stakeholders to help track the nation’s progress in addressing this issue. It is foreseen that the initial activities under the program will start before the end of this year, and that the program will be completed by March 2011.
Ambassador MacDonald noted also that “today’s signature of the Financing Agreement confirms the willingness of the EU and of the Republic of the Philippines to work together even in sensitive areas such as governance, reflecting the spirit of partnership which we have built up over the years”. (Thelma Gecolea)
Bombing injures 2 in Basilan province
BASILAN, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 8, 2009) – Two civilians were injured in a bomb explosion in Lamitan town in the southern Philippine province of Basilan, police said on Thursday.
The town’s police chief Roland Democrito said the blast occurred Wednesday night and that a woman and man were both injured. “It was an IED, an improvised explosive device packed with concrete nails. Two civilians, a man and woman, were hit by shrapnel,” he told the Mindanao Examiner.
He said the bomb was planted in a trash bin and exploded at around 7.30 p.m. during a heavy downpour. “It was raining hard and that probably helped prevent more casualties, otherwise the area is packed with people,” the officer said.
No individual or group claimed responsibly for the bombing, but al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group and Moro rebels are actively operating in Basilan, one of five provinces under the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
Aside from Basilan, security forces were battling militants and rebels in Sulu and Maguindanao and also in Lanao province, all in the autonomous region, one of the poorest in the country, although its regional governor Zaldy Ampatuan, is among the wealthiest in the southern Philippines. Ampatuan rarely visits the provinces.
Police said it was unknown whether the Abu Sayyaf was behind the attack, but the group had been blamed for the spate of attacks and kidnappings for ransom in Basilan.
The group was blamed for dozens of kidnappings, including the abduction of Sri Lankan peace worker Umar Jaleel since last year in the province. (Mindanao Examiner)
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Bomb explodes in South RP, misses passing troops
DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 7, 2009) – Communist rebels detonated an improvised explosive Wednesday on a road in the southern Philippine province of Compostela Valley and narrowly missed a passing military vehicle, officials told the Mindanao Examiner.
Captain Emmanuel Garcia, an army spokesman, said the attack occurred at around 2.30 p.m. in the town of Monkayo. There were no reports of casualties from the attack blamed to the New People’s Army rebels.
The attack targeted the vehicle transporting soldiers belonging to the Army’s 25th Infantry Battalion.
The NPA, which is fighting for decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country, was previously blamed by the military and police for numerous ambuscades in the province.
“The road serves as the lifeline of the peace loving people of Monkayo whose livelihood centers are in the Diwalwal area. The recent bomb explosion along the road has put the lives of the people at great risk. This shows that the NPA is purely a terrorist organization that is sowing fear and panic among our people,” said Lieutenant Colonel Gilbert Saret, the battalion commander.
On Monday, troops seized an improvised explosive after a firefight with NPA rebels in the village of Matupi in San Fernando town in Bukidnon province. (Mindanao Examiner)
Davao priest calls flock to pray for solon's divine guidance
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A Catholic priest in Davao City in the southern Philippines has openly called on his parishioners to pray that House Speaker Prospero Nograles will be guided by the “Holy Spirit” and decide to lead the people in 2010, referring to the forthcoming national elections, a report by the local Daily Mirror said Wednesday.
It said Father Pete Lamata made the call Sunday during his homily which elicited a loud applause in an otherwise solemn ceremony at the St. Mary’s church in Buhangin District.
Nograles, who has kept a 3-year stance to remain in the national level despite swelling clamor for him to run for mayor next year, belongs to Davao City’s 1st District.
His son and chief of staff, lawyer Karlo Nograles, has said that the solon always been praying for divine guidance when making important decisions. “Speaker Nograles comes from a very religious family and was brought up a religious man,” the young Nograles said. “He will, on his own, seek divine guidance.”
The young lawyer who is also the acting head of the ruling Lakas-Kampi-Christian Muslim Democrats in Davao City, said the political party is stepping up preparations for the 2010 elections despite the Speaker’s stance to stay away from local politics.
“Of course we are also listening to the clamor for the Speaker to run for mayor,” the 33-year old lawyer said.
“We can assure everyone that Lakas will be fielding a complete slate in Davao City, from mayor down to the last councilor,” the young Nograles, who himself is also being pushed to run for mayor or congressman in District 1.
The other mayoral wannabe of Lakas is ex-Mayor Benjamin de Guzman who admitted last week that he has been holding talks with the Nograles party.
De Guzman, who heads the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP) political party in Davao City, said he could easily attract 20-percent of the electorate towards the side of Lakas while Speaker Nograles has a conservative hold on 40-percent of the votes.
“At 60-percent you can say that we are already winners and it will now depend on the campaign in which I personally feel that Lakas even owns the advantage,” said De Guzman, who admitted he is open to a possible mayoral draft but insisted that “the overwhelming clamor is for Speaker Nograles to run for mayor.”
De Guzman said people are looking for change in the style of governance in Davao City.
Youth leader Jo Anne Bonguyan, said the widening plea for Speaker Nograles to take a shot at the mayoralty. “The women and the youth sectors in the city believe that the programs of Nograles are what the people really need,” she said.
Bonguyan also revealed that a party-list “who used to support the other side” has asked for a meeting with Nograles for a possible shift in allegiance. “They have realized what is best for Davao City,” the 24-year old niece of ex-Vice Mayor Luis Bonguyan said.
She said the party-list will come out in the open as soon as talks with Lakas are finalized.
Mindanao Examiner TV Week In Review September 27-October 3, 2009
Mindanao Examiner TV Week In Review September 27-October 3, 2009 Part 2
Mindanao Examiner TV Week In Review September 27-October 3, 2009 Part 3
House to approve General Appropriations Act next week
MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles and Majority Leader Arthur Defensor on Wednesday assured that there will be no re-enacted budget for 2010 as the House of Representatives starts its two-week marathon debate on the proposed P1.5-trillion General Appropriations Act.
"We are confident we will approve the proposed national budget by Friday next week," Nograles said, following Monday's sponsorship speeches led by Appropriations Committee Chairman Junie Cua and Vice Chairman Edcel Lagman.
Nograles pointed out that the current efforts of the national government in relief and rehabilitation of flood devastated areas due to the extraordinarily heavy rains spawned by storm Ketsana and the tailing storm Parma makes it more imperative that the proposed budget be acted upon swiftly.
"We can't waste time. Our people – the farmers, fishermen, small and big businesses, everybody - await government action. And we need to act together and fast," Nograles stressed.
Majority Leader Defensor assured that while the House leadership, through a consensus of the majority in plenary, has decided to hold morning and afternoon marathon sessions from today until October 16, each member will be given all the time to actively participate in the plenary consideration.
"We will allow, as always had been in the past, an open and democratic plenary debate on every concern relative to the proposed national outlay," Defensor said. (Gil Bugaoisan)
Security forces repulse Sayyaf attack on main military base in South RP
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 7, 2009) – Philippine security forces repulsed an attack by al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf militants on a major military base in the southern province of Sulu where US troops are stationed. There were no reports of casualties in the fighting, officials said Wednesday.
The militants fired one round of mortar bomb and hitting the end of runway of the airport in the capital town of Jolo as they flee from pursuing soldiers and policemen late Tuesday.
Six more mortar bombs left behind by militants had been recovered the next morning by troops outside the Camp Teodolfo Bautista, where US counterterrorism soldiers put up a forward operating base. US troops have been stationed in Sulu since 2006 and aiding the local military in defeating the Abu Sayyaf.
“Abu Sayyaf bandits again tried to harass the Marines in Sulu, but they were beaten back. While trying to get near Camp Bautista, the bandits ran smack into the defensive positions of the 6th and 7th Regional Mobile Group of the Philippine National Police.”
“Unable to approach the Marine base, they fired one 60mm mortar round and hitting the end of the runway, but the RMG zeroed in on the enemy’s position and engaged them in a firefight. This morning, six live and unexpended 60mm mortar ammos were recovered from the enemy position,” said military spokesman Major Ramon David Hontiveros.
It was the second time in eight years that rebels attacked the military camp right in the center of the provincial capital.
In November 2001, on the eve of the elections in the Muslim autonomous region, Abu Sayyaf militants and rebels loyal to Moro National Liberation Front chieftain Nur Misuari attacked the camp in Jolo and another group raided a village in Zamboanga City that left more than 100 people dead.
Misuari signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996 ending decades of bloody secessionist war. After the peace agreement was signed, Misuari became the governor of the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao. The Muslim autonomous region was meant to implement the 1976 Tripoli Agreement between Manila and the MNLF.
But despite the peace accord, there was a widespread disillusionment with the weak autonomy they were granted. And Misuari accused the government of reneging on the peace agreement.
Presently, the governor of the Muslims autonomous region, Zaldy Ampatuan, a close ally of President Gloria Arroyo, is not a member of the MNLF which is said to be a violation of the peace deal signed during President Fidel Ramos administration.
Many former guerrillas were disgruntled with the peace deal, saying, the Arroyo government failed to comply with some of its provisions and uplift their standards of living. They accused Manila of failing to develop war-torn areas in the south.
Under the peace agreement, Manila would have to provide a mini-Marshal Plan to spur economic development in Muslim areas in the south and livelihood and housing assistance to tens of thousands of former rebels to uplift their poor living standards.
After the rebellion in Jolo and Zamboanga, Misuari then escaped by boat to Malaysia, where he had been arrested and deported to the Philippines and jailed.
Misuari also ran twice for governor in Sulu even while under detention, but lost. He also supported Arroyo's election bid and her allies in the Senate and Congress in 2004 and 2007 in exchange for promises that he would be pardoned and freed. He was eventually set free. (Mindanao Examiner)
B'laan Tribesmen Dance In Southern Philippines
B'laan tribesmen perform the traditional victory dance during the Tribal Day Tuesday, October 6, 2009 which coincided with the 95th founding anniversary of the town of Glan in Sarangani province in the southern Philippines. (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion)Coco oil prices decline give woes to Filipino farmers
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In Luzon Island, copra prices went down from P 28.25 per kilo in 2007 to P 24.75 in 2008. This rapid and steep decline in prices is worse in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, averaging more than P 7 of decline within a year.
The Philippine Coconut Industry said given this bare situation, farmers are no longer harvesting coconuts. More farmers cut trees and sell them as lumber, instead of harvesting the coconut.
The coconut industry is the country's oldest and most strategic industry, contributing 1.14% of the total Gross Domestic Product amounting to US$ 760 million. The Philippines is a world leader in
coconut exports, dominating 59% of the global market.
Government statistics indicated that areas planted with coconut covers 3.258 million hectares equivalent to 27% of total agricultural land. At least 68 out of 79 provinces are considered
coconut areas, representing 1,195 municipalities. (With a report from Geo Solmerano)
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
House sends to the Senate 90-day loan payment suspension for flood victims in Philippines
MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives has approved on final reading House Joint Resolution Number 47 mandating a 90-day suspension of loan payments and condonation of interests and penalties on loans of victims of Typhoon Ketsana and expressed hope that the Senate will also act swiftly to ensure the immediate effect of the measure.
"Under House Joint Resolution Number 47, we are likewise urging other financial institutions from the private sector to do the same as a form of financial and economic relief for our people. I hope we can implement this immediately," House Speaker Prospero Nograles said on Tuesday.
As many parts of Luzon try to recover from the devastation of typhoon Ketsana, with many parts of northern Luzon still reeling from the fury of another storm Parma, the people needs all the necessary assistance and relief available, the Speaker said.
"Giving our people at least three months reprieve could be a great relief as the victims try to recover from the devastation inflicted by the floods that wrecked houses, public and private infrastructures, agriculture and businesses," he added.
Nograles lauded the bi-partisan concern and efforts of the members of the House led by principal authors led by Representative Darlene Custodio, Majority Floor Leader Arthur Defensor, Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora and senior assistant majority leader Neptali Gonzales.
The authors said that the relief mechanism being espoused by the government in the form of calamity fund releases and loans may not be enough, considering that emotional, social and economic recovery proves to be difficult, especially if it concerns sudden loss of lives and dwellings.
The joint resolution mandates "all government financial institutions such as the Government Service Insurance System, Social Security System and Pagtutulungan – Ikaw, Bangko, Industriya at Gobyerno or Pag-Ibig to immediately effect suspension for at least ninety days (90) of loan payments and condonation of interests and penalties thereat of the borrowers who are victims of typhoon Ketsana as a form of financial and economic relief, and urging other financial institutions from the private sector to do the same."
Other principal authors of House Joint Resolution Number 47 are Assistant majority leader Del de Guzman, Representatives Jesus Crispin Remulla, Juan Edgardo Angara, Albert Garcia, Rene Velarde, Anna York Bondoc, Janette Garin, Vincent Crisologo, Oscar Malapitan, Victor Aguedo Agbayani, Roman Romulo, Marc Douglas Cagas, Adam Relson Jala, Antonio Diaz, Roilo Golez, Satur Ocampo, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Rufus Rodriguez, Didagen Dilangalen, Ana Theresia Hontiveros, Liza Maza, Mar-Len Abigail Binay and Herminia Ramiro.
"We will immediately send the joint measure to the Senate for its appropriate action. We will continue to seek other forms of relief and help our people and our economy recover," Nograles said. (Gil Bugaoisan)
Troops clashed with NPA; seized IED in Southern Philippines
DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 6, 2009) – Government soldiers seized an improvised explosive device after a firefight with communist rebels in the southern Philippines, army officials told the Mindanao Examiner on Tuesday.
Officials said the fighting broke out in the village of Matupi in the town of San Fernando in Bukidnon province after army forces intercepted a band of rebels on Monday.
There were no reports of casualties from both sides, but officials said soldiers have seized the explosive, including medical kits and backpacks left behind by New People’s Army rebels.
“Government troops recovered an improvised explosive devise in an encounter with local NPA terrorists,” said Lieutenant Colonel Adriano Perez, commander of the Army’s 60th Infantry Battalion.
He said villages tipped off the military about the presence of rebels and eventually troops caught up with the gunmen and a firefight ensued.
Last week, rebel forces killed four government soldiers in a roadside bombing in Agusan del Sur’s Trento town. The rebels also seized an M16 rifle from the slain soldiers, said Roel Agustin II, a spokesman for the NPA’s Conrado Heredia Command.
The NPA is fighting for decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country. (Mindanao Examiner)
15 jail officers, guards cited for saving lives of prisoners in Philippines
MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 6, 2009) – Philippine jail officials awarded medals to 15 people for their efficient safeguarding and transfer of 234 prisoners at the height of typhoon Ketsana that devastated many parts of the country.
The Medalya ng Kasanayan or the Efficiency Medal was awarded to officers of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and personnel of the San Mateo Municipal Jail.
Officials said the 15 officers and jail guards risked their lives and rushed to save the inmates after the prison was flooded up to its second floor. The town was among the areas submerged in flood. More than 300 people were killed in the typhoon that hit the country last week.
The award was given by Jail Director Rosendo Dial, the BJMP chief.
He said the San Mateo town in Rizal province was one of the areas badly hit by floods and the municipal jail, situated a few meters away from a river, was not spared. Flood inundated the jail which prompted the officers to transfer the inmates to the second floor.
“While in the second floor, the water continued to rise up to waist level which called for mass evacuation of inmates, transferring them to a nearby college amidst heavy downpour and raging waters from the overflowing river. Aided by ropes and tire interiors, the inmates swam towards safety. All inmates were secured with no attempts of escapes and not a single casualty,” he said in a statement.
Dial said the San Mateo jail officers deserve the award. “Their presence of mind and adherence to jail security measures during this calamity enabled the safety evacuation of the inmates. If it were not for their competent act, the situation could have catastrophic results, probably ending the lives of many inmates who could have been trapped inside their cells.”
“Because of their courageous act, these personnel will be considered for meritorious promotion,” he added.
Warden chief Godfrey Galigo said the evacuation from the jail facility was a great peril, both for the inmates and us personnel. “Incompetence on our part could mete us administrative sanctions that could result to suspension or dismissal from the service. However, as jail officers, it is our sworn duty to keep our inmates safe in all situations, even against our personal safety,” he said.
Policemen and fire officers who came to the rescue and helped in the evacuation of the San Mateo Municipal Jail inmates will also be given award by the BJMP.
Army's Best Battalion Is Back In Basilan Province
BASILAN, Philippines – With the concept of introducing 80% Civil-Military Operation and only 20% Combat Operation in its campaign plan in the southern island of Basilan, the Armed Forces of the Philippines brought back one of the Army’s best CMO Battalion, the 32nd Infantry Battalion under the First Infantry Division.
The unit which came from Lanao Del Norte province under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Jones Agustin arrived recently at the port of Lamitan and was subsequently redeployed in the town of Maluso.
It can be recalled that the 32nd Infantry Battalion was assigned in Basilan from 1999 to 2007 and later deployed in various municipalities of the province. For almost eight years in the area, the said unit was one of those that contributed so much in transforming Basilan from a war zone to a peaceful zone for socio economic development during their stint in the area.
Before they battalion was sent to Basilan, Major General Romeo Lustestica, commander of the First Infantry Division, praised the soldiers for their successful campaign against rogue members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and other threat groups in Lanao del Norte and told them that they must display the same commitment and dedication in their new area of responsibility.
He stressed that the AFP’s priority for Basilan province is not necessarily to conduct a series of combat operations, but to assist the government in the establishment of a peaceful community conducive for socio–economic development.
On the other hand, the battalion commander upon their arrival in Basilan said that the locals could expect his unit to give the same effort it has exerted before for the establishment of peace throughout the province.
Just recently, the 32nd Infantry Battalion conducted the first ever Interfaith Symposium to 147 graduating high school students of Claret High School in Maluso town. It also showed a film documentary entitled “Healing the past, building the future.”
Agustin said the peace initiative was aimed at educating the youth of Basilan on how to eradicate prejudices and mistrust and foster friendship and camaraderie among the students.
He said his battalion also launched a children’s feeding program that benefited dozens of poor Samal children at Sitio Kalye Basa in the town’s Townsite village.
The activity, Agustin said, would be regularly conducted every Saturday targeting the hapless and indigent children in remote areas in the province.
“The activity included the distribution of arroz caldo or porridge and fruit juice, followed by the distribution of multi-vitamins syrup to the children,” he said.
“This endeavor is part of the AFP’s expanded role in the community which includes development oriented activities in support of the program of the national government,” Agustin added, adding the effort was also supported by the Philippine Marines in Basilan.
He stressed that the efforts were made to appeal to the people to support the government’s call for peace and unity and to show that the AFP will always adhere and observe peaceful means in resolving internal security problems.
Marine killed in Sayyaf attack in South RP
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 6, 2009) – Abu Sayyaf militants attacked government troops, killing a marine and wounding another in fierce clashes in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials told the independent regional newspaper, the Mindanao Examiner, on Tuesday.
Officials said the soldiers were to provide security for a group of military engineers repairing a bridge bombed by Moro rebels when gunmen attacked them at around 2.15 p.m. Monday in the village of Bato-Bato in Indanan town.
“They were going to clear the way and provide security for engineers who wanted to repair the Talatak bridge, but apparently, the enemy did not want the people to benefit from the bridge, hence, they prevented our engineers from repairing it,” said Marine Major Ramon David Hontiveros, a spokesman for the Western Mindanao Command.
Hontiveros blamed the Abu Sayyaf for the attack.
The bridge, linking Indanan to another town, was first blasted on September 29 and then rebels again bombed it on October 1 to prevent military vehicles from crossing into the town.
It was unknown what prompted the military to send army engineers in the area despite the pockets of fighting in the town, which is a known stronghold of Abu Sayyaf and Moro National Liberation Front rebels who are fighting for independence.
Suspected Moro rebels also attacked a marine post on Monday in the village of Bitan-ag in Panamao town, according to a regional military commander, Major General Benjamin Dolorfino.
He said rebels fired mortar bombs into the post of the 311th Marine Company, but there have been no reports of casualties.
A rebel leader, Madarang Sali, deputy supreme commander of the shadowy group called Bangsamoro National Liberation Army, said the fighting erupted after military forces shelled the stronghold of the Moro National Liberation Front.
Sali warned of more bloodshed and renewed threats to bomb military and civilian targets in the country in retaliation to government offensive in Sulu, one of five provinces in the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
The MNLF under Nur Misuari signed a peace accord with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the deal and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards or to bring developments in Muslim areas in the troubled region. (Mindanao Examiner)
Monday, October 05, 2009
Ex-mayor, prominent lawyer primed for Lakas mayor in Davao City
Lawyer Karlo Nograles, son and chief of staff of House Speaker Prospero Nograles, addresses a huge crowd of supporters in Davao City in Mindanao. (Mindanao Examimer Photo / Geo Solmerano)The scenario developed as local party stalwarts fell short of getting a commitment from Speaker Prospero Nograles to consider the mayoralty nomination during the Davao City forays of the House chief Thursday until yesterday.
Party leaders have been asking Nograles to accept the Lakas-Kampi-CMD mayoralty draft amid mounting clamors from around the three districts of the city. Nograles has taken the position of staying in the national level than delve into local politics.
In his Saturday radio program “Kalamboan Dala Tanan,” the young Nograles said the final selection process for mayor and other local positions in the city will begin as soon as the massive recruitment of Lakas members is completed.
“Applications for Lakas-CMD membership in Davao City have accelerated since the Commission on Elections ruled in favor of its merger with (President Gloria Arroyo’s) Kampi party after a challenge about its legality,” the young Nograles, who is also the Speaker’s chief of staff, said.
The lawyer said his father sits as vice chairman to Lakas-Kampi chairperson President Arroyo while he acts as interim leader of the party in Davao City.
“After we have sworn-in all the new Lakas-Kampi-CMD members in the city, we will immediately proceed to the final selection process,” explained Karlo in his radio program aired at dxAB, which had De Guzman and youth leader Jo Anne Bonguyan as guest panelists.
De Guzman has confirmed that he is into talks to join Lakas-Kampi-CMD. A leader of Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino in Davao, De Guzman made a surprise appearance at the groundbreaking of the Nograles-initiated sports dome project at the University of Southeastern Philippines last Thursday in which he made the revelation on his political future.
On the other hand, Bonguyan, a niece of former Davao City vice mayor Luis Bonguyan, joined Team Nograles last month.
The young Nograles said the Lakas-Kampi-CMD membership in Davao City will be given the opportunity to voice out their choices on who could be their candidate for mayor next year. “If the members choose Mayor De Guzman to run for the top local position, then he must accept it or leave the party,” he said.
De Guzman said while he welcomes a possible mayoral draft from Lakas, “the bigger clamor is still for Speaker Nograles to run for mayor.”
“In my sorties, people are clamoring, hoping and even praying that Speaker Nograles become their mayor,” De Guzman said. “My personal desire is for local government to change.”
Bonguyan, for her part, agreed that people are really calling on the Speaker to run for Davao City mayor. “The First District where Speaker Nograles is congressman has become the model of responsive governance because its progress and concerns for livelihood, education and heath. They want Nograles to run.”
Team Nograles spokesman Mario Tamayo said: “Even if the Speaker would be out of the mayoral picture, Lakas will have a formidable candidate for mayor next year either with Karlo Nograles or De Guzman.”
But Tamayo said there is also overwhelming call for the young Nograles to run for congressman and replace his father who is on his third and last term. “With Karlo taking over District 1, people know they will not be left out in their share of national funds so that we will continue to have development.”
“About Mayor De Guzman, he will certainly be a bigger force when the massive organization and resources of Lakas-Kampi-CMD are mobilized for his possible mayoral candidacy,” Tamayo said. “Besides, we don’t see a strong opponent from the other side with Mayor Rodrigo Duterte ineligible to run for another term.”
Baliguian town mayor, 5 others wounded in blast; bomber captured in Zamboanga City
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 5, 2009) – Six people were wounded, including a town mayor, in a roadside bombing Monday in the southern Philippines, officials said.
Officials said a cargo truck carrying Gani Esmali, the mayor of Baliguian town in Zamboanga del Norte province, was hit by the bombing in the village of Kauswagan.
“Six civilians were wounded, including the Baliguian mayor. They were evacuated to Siocon hospital,” said Marine Major Ramon David Hontiveros, a spokesman for the military’s Western Mindanao Command.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which came a day after government soldiers captured a suspected bomber in Zamboanga City.
Soldiers belonging to the Army’s Task Force Zamboanga captured Arnel Ceniza who was transporting an improvised explosive device assembled from a 60mm mortar bomb near the village of Campo Islam.
Local authorities are still investigating the 37-year old man whether he is a member of any rebel group.
Zamboanga City has been flooded with reports of bomb threats the past weeks after fighting between troops and rebels broke out in Sulu province that had killed at least four dozen gunmen and soldiers, including two members of the US Special Forces assisting the local military in defeating terrorism. (Mindanao Examiner)
Moro rebels attack marine post in Sulu, claim bombing in Cotabato
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 5, 2009) – Suspected Moro rebels attacked a marine post Monday in the southern Filipino province of Sulu where fighting had killed dozens of gunmen and soldiers in recent weeks.
A regional military commander, Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, said rebels fired mortar bombs into the post of the 311th Marine Company in the village of Bitan-ag in Panamao town.
“There were no casualties, but our operations are ongoing in Sulu against lawless elements,” Dolorfino said in an interview.
A rebel leader, Madarang Sali, deputy supreme commander of the shadowy group called Bangsamoro National Liberation Army, said the fighting erupted after military forces shelled the stronghold of the Moro National Liberation Front.
“The military started the offensive and fired cannons targeting MNLF forces in Sulu,” he said in a statement to the independent regional newspaper, the Mindanao Examiner.
Sali warned of more bloodshed and renewed threats to bomb military and civilian targets in the country in retaliation to government offensive in Sulu, one of five provinces in the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
“We have special units in Mindanao and we will target you all,” he said, adding they have declared holy war against the Arroyo government and that they are fighting for the freedom of the Bangsamoro people, referring to the local Muslims.
“We need to make a sacrifice even with our own lives to regain the independence of the Bangsamoro people,” Sali said.
Fighting in Sulu the past weeks have already killed at least 34 rebels and a dozen soldiers, including two members of the US Special Forces who were helping the Philippine military in defeating terrorism.
Sali’s group had claimed responsibility for the September 29 roadside bombing that killed US soldiers Sergeant First Class Christopher D. Shaw of Markham, Illinois, 37; and Staff Sergeant Jack M. Martin III of Bethany, Oklahoma, 26, in Indanan town.
Sali said only 10 MNLF rebels were killed in the fighting in Sulu, denying military claims that 34 gunmen had died from the clashes, although security officials claimed only two bodies had been recovered by soldiers.
He also accused US forces of participating in military operations in Sulu and warned that attacks on American troops would continue.
Local authorities said they have stepped up security because of threats of attacks by rebel forces. Zamboanga City, which had been previously bombed by Abu Sayyaf militants, is currently celebrating the weeklong Hermosa Festival in honor of the Virgin Mary locally known as “Our Lady of the Pilar,” its patron saint.
A homemade bomb exploded on Monday in Cotabato City in Mindanao Island, although no casualties had been reported. Sali has claimed responsibility for the latest blast, saying, it was carried out by a special unit of the BNLA’s 1st Battalion.
Security officials said the bomb exploded at around 7.45 a.m. near downtown Cotabato.
“There were no reports of injuries or casualties and we are still investigating the motive and who was behind the bombing,” said Colonel Jonathan Ponce, a spokesman for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
“The bomber may have failed to sneak the improvised explosive device into downtown Cotabato because of the presence of troops guarding checkpoints around Cotabato and just left the bomb to explode at a vacant lot in the village called Rosary Heights,” Ponce said.
Ponce said the bomb was designed to kill. “The design of the IED was meant to kill,” he said, adding, soldiers have recovered nails and broken parts of a cellular phone believed used to trigger explosion from the blast site.
He said the explosive was similar to those being used by Moro rebels in previous attacks in Mindanao.
The bombing came a day after BNLA rebels warned of impending attacks in civilian targets. Sali said the bombing was only a warning of bigger attacks to come.
Sali’s claims cannot be independently confirmed.
The MNLF signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the accord and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards or bring developments in Muslim areas. (With a report from Geo Solmerano)
Filipino teachers are overworked and underpaid, says teacher's organization
DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 5, 2009) - In commemoration of the World Teachers' Day, the Kahugpungan ng mga Magtutudlo ug Kawani sa Edukasyon sa Mindanao and the Alliance of Concerned Teachers-Partylist reiterate the need to upgrade teachers’ salary and the prioritization of education in the proposed 2010 national budget.
“Thousands of overworked, underpaid teachers in Davao City are in dire need for higher salaries and better working conditions," said Elenito Escalante, chairperson of KAMKEM-ACT.
He was referring to the Education Reform Agenda, a substantial legislative matter being pushed by ACT in order to alleviate the worsening system of education in the country.
“We are pushing for the P9000 wage increase for teachers and non-teaching staff through the House Bill 4734,” Escalante said in a statement.
The bill was filed by Gabriela Partylist Representatives Liza Maza and Luzviminda Ilagan.
Escalante cited that the low education budget and neglect for the teacher’s welfare "reflects the Arroyo government’s utter disrespect to the basic right of every Filipino for quality education."
He also said that "teachers receive the lowest salaries in the ranks of the professionals in the Philippines. The shortage of teachers in the country is not surprising as many prefer to work abroad."
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration reports that 1,666 teachers leave annually to teach in Africa, Europe and Asia or to work as caregivers or domestic helpers in Saudi Arabia, Hongkong or Singapore.
The ACT Teachers’ Party also lambasted the proposed Department of Education 2010 budget which roughly computes to only P6 per student.
The proposed budget is only 2.8 percent of the country’s GDP which is inadequate if one uses the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) ideal computation of 6 percent of GDP which should be allotted for education.
“Lack of budget in education results to inadequate facilities such as schools, classrooms, and textbooks,” Escalante said.
In 2008, there are 287 public elementary schools and 66 public high schools in Davao City yet there are only 4,489 public elementary school teachers and 2,227 public high school teachers.
“Clearly there is a discrepancy with the number of teachers per school. If that is the case we only have roughly 15 teachers per public elementary school and about 34 teachers in public high schools,” Escalante said.
He said: "Teachers put in long hours and more teaching load, while the DepEd is pushing for a reduction of class hours to accommodate the increasing number of pupils and inadequate classrooms."
“Our call is very simple: give priority to education and give back the teachers’ dignity,” Escalante said.
Moro human rights groups accuse military of violating civil liberty in South RP
Moro human rights groups accused the US and Philippine military of violating rights of innocent civilians in the southern Philippines province of Suluy during a news conference Monday, October 5, 2009 in Zamboanga City. Among those who also spoke during the news conference were Ustadza Jujum Jandul, of the Juga-Moro Human Rights Group; and Reverend Julius Camannong, of the Zamboanga-Basilan Regional Ecumenical Council. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Jung Francisco) The KAWAGIB reported that women, children and innocent civilians fall prey and targets of joint forces of Filipino and US troops’ manhunt operation against alleged Abu Sayyaf militants.
It said on September 20 while Muslims gathered to pray for Eid’l Fitr, Philippine Air Force planes indiscriminately bombed Sitio Talibang in the village of Buanza in Indanan town and killed a Muslim preacher and a 19-year old woman, Wilma Ambil, who was 7 months pregnant.
The shelling continued for four days and resumed again on September 28 that targeted areas near Moro National Liberation Front under Ustadz Habier Malik which sparked fierce clashes.
“Innocent civilians become targets of indiscriminate aerial bombings; their houses were destroyed including their sources of living. Documented victims of forcible evacuation reached 1, 739 families or 5, 725 individuals; some in evacuation centers while most of the evacuees are undocumented. Relief assistance were restricted only to areas not in armed conflict where evacuees are temporarily sheltering, in essence food blockade in areas of armed conflict occurs,” said Bai Ali Indayla, KAWAGIB’s Secretary-General, during a press conference in Zamboanga City.
She said they would file criminal charges against the US and Philippine military forces involved in the Sulu operation and submit their findings to the Commission on Human Rights and the Philippine Congress.
“For several times, the US-Arroyo regime in its nine years of administration had shown disrespect to the culture of the Moro people. On February 11, 2003, government troops attacked Buliok Complex in North Cotabato while Muslims pray on Eid’l Adha, the same that they launched aerial bombing in Indanan, Sulu on September 20, 2009, while we pray on the Eid’l Fitr. The ruthlessness of this government is so blatant; it also scored massacres on the Moro communities like the Maimbung Massacre in 2008; Mandi Massacre also in 2008, and Padiwan Massacre in 2005, not to mention the hundreds of civilian victims of military crackdown in the province of Basilan when Arroyo declared state of lawlessness in 2001,” she added.
She said no justice was given to victims of human rights violations and instead military officials were even promoted despite the killings of many Moro people.
“At worst, US troops are also perpetrators on these human rights violations because they participate on actual combat operations. In the name of US economic interest, as the top agenda of the Arroyo administration, Gloria Arroyo sacrifices the lives of the Moro people and the entire country. The Arroyo Administration-a puppet of the US government has perpetrated the total sell-out of our territorial integrity and national sovereignty,” Indayla said.
Among those who also spoke during the news conference were Ustadza Jujum Jandul, of the Juga-Moro Human Rights Group; and Reverend Julius Camannong, of the Zamboanga-Basilan Regional Ecumenical Council. (With reports from Jung Francisco and Jonathan Deles)
Zamboanga to host 2 business confab
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 5, 2009) – Zamboanga City is hosting two major events in Mindanao this month – the One Town, One Product Mindanao Island Fair - and the 2nd Mindanao Investment Conference, government media reported on Monday.
Regional trade director Nazrullah Manzur, who is the head of the organizing committee, said this year's OTOP Mindanao Island Fair will be called "Orgullo de Mindanao 2009," which will be held from October 9-12.
He said other activities include business matching sessions, Jardin de las Flores (Garden Show), livelihood seminars and technology demonstrations.
The fair will showcase an array of the best product lines from the five regions in Mindanao. A flaunt of jewelry and fashion accessories; furniture and furnishings; fresh and processed food; holiday decors; organic and natural products and raw material components abound for takers at affordable prices.
The 2nd Mindanao Investment Conference, on the other hand, is scheduled on October 9-10 and is jointly organized by the Mindanao Business Council and the Department of Trade and Industry with the theme "Steer the wheels to Progress, Invest in MindaNow".
Manzur said the conference aims to contribute to an increase in trade and investments in the Mindanao regions; generate project ideas that will lead to the creation of small and medium scale industries and forge strategic industry alliances within Mindanao and in the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines East-Asian Growth Area.
During the two-day conference, industry experts are expected to tackle investment opportunities in the production and processing of Pangasius – a genus of catfishes; halal food, seaweeds, coconut by-products, banana, moringa – the fruit of the kelor tree, whose leaves and seed pods are edible and are reported to taste like asparagus; high value vegetables, bamboo, and high value marine culture.
Bomb Explodes in Southern Philippine City
COTABATO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 5, 2009) – A homemade bomb exploded on Monday in the southern Philippines, although there were no reports of casualties, officials told the Mindanao Examiner.
Officials said the bomb exploded at around 7.45 a.m. near downtown Cotabato. “There were no reports of injuries or casualties and we are still investigating the motive and who was behind the bombing,” said Colonel Jonathan Ponce, a spokesman for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
“The bomber may have failed to sneak the improvised explosive device into downtown Cotabato because of the presence of troops guarding checkpoints around Cotabato and just left the bomb to explode at a vacant lot in the village called Rosary Heights,” Ponce said.
No group or individuals claimed responsibility for the blast, but Ponce said the bomb was designed to kill.
“The design of the IED was meant to kill,” he said, adding, soldiers have recovered nails and broken parts of a cellular phone believed used to trigger explosion from the blast site.
He said the explosive was similar to those being used by Moro rebels in previous attacks in Mindanao.
The bombing came a day after a rebel leader Madarang Sali, deputy supreme commander of the Bangsamoro National Liberation Army, warned of attacks against military and civilian targets in retaliation to government offensive in Sulu province.
The military said more than four dozen Moro rebels and soldiers were killed in fierce clashes in Sulu since late last month. Two US Special Forces soldiers and a Filipino marine were among those killed in rebel attacks in Sulu, one of five provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region.
Sali’s group is fighting for independence and vowed to attack US forces which he claimed were involved in combat operations in Sulu. (Mindanao Examiner)
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Speaker Nograles to prioritize measure suspending SSS, GSIS loan payments of typhoon victims
MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles said the House is committed to fast track the passage of House Resolution Number 47 which would mandate all government financial institutions such as the GSIS, SSS and Pag-ibig to immediately effect suspension for at least 90 days loan payments and condonation of interests and penalties of borrowers who are victims of typhoon Ketsana as a form of financial and economic relief.
Responding quickly to the humanitarian crisis that was caused by the devastation of typhoon Ketsana, the House approved on second reading HR 47 and Nograles expressed confidence that the Senate will give the same level of priority for this measure to lessen the pain and anguish of the victims.
HR No. 47 also urges other financial institutions from the private sector to do the same.“I'm confident that we can pass this measure the soonest. It is now a top a priority of the House and hopefully the Senate,” Nograles said.
HR No. 47 was sponsored during plenary by Majority Leader Arthur Defensor, Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora and principally authored by Representative Darlene Custodio.
Defensor, Custodio and Zamora pointed out that the relief mechanism being espoused by the government in the form of calamity fund release and loans may not be enough considering that emotional, social and economic recovery proves to be difficult, especially if it concerns sudden loss of lives and dwellings.
“Ondoy's devastating effects cannot be overstated given the rising death toll and damage to affected areas as many are still missing and the cost of damage to and loss of properties is yet to be determined in actual terms,” they said.
Ondoy was the local codename for typhoon Ketsana.
Zamboanga in heightened alert, military to launch new emergency hot line
A regional military commander, Marine Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, says they would launch Monday, October 5, 2009 a new “hot line” that would allow citizens to send text messages from their cell phones or inform authorities about suspicious persons or information that could prevent terrorism. Aside from the new hot line number, police also have telephone numbers 166 and 117 posted in many areas in Zamboanga City where citizens can call at anytime in case of an emergency similar to 911 in the United States. However, some of the hot lines were wrongly printed and instead of 166, the police line is written as 116. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)“We have stepped up our security and are closely working with the police to prevent terrorism or bombing in Zamboanga City,” Army Colonel Santiago Baluyot, commander of an anti-terror task force, told the Mindanao Examiner.
Zamboanga City, which had been previously bombed by Abu Sayyaf militants, is currently celebrating the weeklong Hermosa Festival in honor of the Virgin Mary locally known as “Our Lady of the Pilar,” its patron saint.
A regional military commander, Marine Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, said they would launch Monday a new “hotline” that would allow citizens to send text messages from their cell phones or inform authorities about suspicious persons or information that could prevent terrorism.
“We are going to launch this on Monday so citizens can easily and quickly provide information through SMS (short message system) from their cell phones,” Dolorfino said in a separate interview.
Aside from the new hotline number, police also have telephone numbers 166 and 117 posted in many areas in Zamboanga City where citizens can call at anytime in case of an emergency similar to 911 in the United States.However, some of the hotlines were wrongly printed and instead of 166, the police line is written as 116.
Government forces are battling Moro rebels since last month in the province and had already killed at least 45 gunmen and soldiers, including two members of the US Special Forces.
The Bangsamoro National Liberation Army warned of more attacks against the military and civilian targets in the Philippines in retaliation to the continued government offensive against rebels in Sulu province.
The shadowy group, an ally of the Moro National Liberation Front, has claimed responsibility for the September 29 roadside bombing in Sulu that killed US soldiers Sergeant First Class Christopher D. Shaw of Markham, Illinois, 37; and Staff Sergeant Jack M. Martin III of Bethany, Oklahoma, 26.
Madarang Sali, BNLA deputy supreme commander, rebel forces have declared a holy war against the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine government.
Sali, also the spokesman for the Bangsamoro Federated States of Sulu Archipelago, said US forces were involved in the Philippine military offensive against the rebel forces.
He said the BNLA is headed by Lieutenant General Abdulnasser Iskandar, while the MNLF are under the command of Ustadz Habier Malik, Khaid Ajibun and Tahil Usman.
Sali said only 10 MNLF rebels were killed in the fighting – seven under Malik and three more under the command of Ajibun. He warned of more attacks against US troops if they continue participating in combat operations in Sulu.
Dolorfino said troops were tracking down at least four most senior Abu Sayyaf leaders – Dr Abu, Albader Parad, Isnilon Hapilon and Yasser Igasan – including two foreign Jemaah Islamiya terrorists Mauiya and Quayem and some 200 followers.
But the killing of the two US Special Forces soldiers further bolstered suspicions that American troops joined counterterrorism operations in Sulu where 42 militants and soldiers were killed in recent clashes in Indanan town.
Sali said only 10 MNLF rebels were killed in the fighting – seven under Malik and three more under the command of Ajibun. He warned of more attacks against US troops if they continue participating in combat operations in Sulu.
US troops have been are deployed in Sulu since 2006 and assisting the Philippine military in defeating the Abu Sayyaf. Although security officials deny US forces were directly involved in combat operations, there were numerous reports from civilians and various civil groups that American soldiers actually participated in the operations aimed at capturing or killing militant leaders in Sulu and other parts of Mindanao.
The MNLF signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the accord and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards. Sali last week said the military offensive targeted the MNLF in Sulu. He said Ajibun escaped a military raid last week in the province. (Mindanao Examiner)
Job Fair, Mobile Passporting Launched in Kidapawan City
Filipinos flock to Kidapawan City in the southern Philippines during a job fair and mobile passporting service Saturday, October 3, 2009. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Geo Solmerano).
KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 4, 2009) - Hundreds of people flocked Saturday to Kidapawan City in Mindanao to search for jobs and apply for passport during the launching of a job fair and mobile passporting services.
Dozens of private companies joined the job fair in an effort to provide jobs to those who wanted to work. The Department of Labor and Employment and the local government spearheaded the job fair.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, on the hand, launched its mobile passporting service to allow those who want to travel to apply for passport. (Geo Solmerano)
9 killed as Parma ravages the Philippines
The aftermath of typhoon Ketsana that ravaged the Philippines. (AKP Images / Buck Pago)Street poles and fallen trees littered the streets in many areas and floodwaters submerged many villages in the provinces.
Many areas were without electricity and refugees continue to appeal for food as the typhoon ravaged the provinces of Batanes, Cagayan, Babuyan Island, Calayan Island, Ilocos Norte, Abra, Apayao, Kalinga, Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Isabela, La Union, Benguet, Ifugao, Pangasinan, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.
Just last month, typhoon Ketsana also ravaged the Philippines and left more than 300 people dead. (Mindanao Examiner)
Saturday, October 03, 2009
House cites growth of Jesus is Lord Movement
The House of Representatives official recognition of the JIL’s contributions to the social and religious well being of Filipinos is contained in House Resolution No. 1435 authored by Nograles himself and adopted last Wednesday.
The Jesus is Lord Movement is a Pentecostal movement in the Philippines headed by its founder, Brother Eddie as he is fondly called, which started in 1978 with 15 members, now has approximately six million members with about 10,000 local congregations nationwide.
Under Brother Eddie’s leadership, the JIL has grown to establish 2,500 services worldwide in more than 1,000 churches, including 365 chapters in the National Capital Region and 45 international chapters in the United States, Canada, Middle East, North America and neighboring Asian countries.
Rebel group claims responsibility for the killing of 2 US anti-terrorism soldiers in the Philippines
ZAMBONGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 3, 2009) – A shadowy group called the Bangsamoro National Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the dead roadside bombing that killed two US Special Forces soldiers and a Filipino marine in the southern Philippines.
Sergeant 1st Class Christopher D. Shaw of Markham, Illinois, 37; and Staff Sergeant Jack M. Martin III of Bethany, Oklahoma, 26, were killed on September 29 in the town of Indanan in Sulu province.
The Fort Lewis soldiers belonged to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group. The US Department of Defense said the incident is under being investigated.
Madarang Sali, BNLA deputy supreme commander, said the attack on the American soldiers was in retaliation to the continued operations of the US and Philippine military against the Moro National Liberation Front in Sulu province.
He said MNLF and BNLA rebels planted the bomb that killed the three soldiers.
“The BNLA and MNLF members planted the bomb. The US forces are really involved in the operations in Sulu. The landmine used in the attack was that of the BNLA,” Sali said in a statement to the Mindanao Examiner.
The Philippine military previously blamed the Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiya for the attack on the US soldiers. It said those killed in the roadside bombing were non-combatants, but members of the US Navy Seabees who were involved in humanitarian missions in Sulu.
Sali said fighting between rebels and troops broke out again late Saturday afternoon in the village of Bunot in Indanan town.
“Fighting again erupted (in the village) and they will suffer defeat. The Bangsamoro revolutionary forces have declared a jihad (holy war) against the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine government for the Bangsamoro homeland,” Sali, also the spokesman for the Bangsamoro Federated States of Sulu Archipelago.
The clashes erupted after rebel forces bombed a bridge late Friday in the village of Bunot. It was the third time rebels bombed bridges in Sulu in a span of two weeks.
Marine Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, blamed the Abu Sayyaf for the bombing of the bridges and the attack on the US forces.
Sali branded as lies and propaganda Dolorfino’s statement. “It is purely the operations of the BNLA and the MNLF, not the Abu Sayyaf or the Jemaah Islamiya,” he said.
He said the BNLA is headed by Lieutenant General Abdulnasser Iskandar, while the MNLF are under the command of Ustadz Habier Malik, Khaid Ajibun and Tahil Usman.
Dolorfino said troops were tracking down at least four most senior Abu Sayyaf leaders – Dr Abu, Albader Parad, Isnilon Hapilon and Yasser Igasan – including two foreign Jemaah Islamiya terrorists Mauiya and Quayem and some 200 followers.
The killing of the two US Special Forces soldiers further bolstered suspicions that American troops joined counterterrorism operations in Sulu where 42 militants and soldiers were killed in recent clashes in Indanan town.
Sali said only 10 MNLF rebels were killed in the fighting – seven under Malik and three more under the command of Ajibun. He warned of more attacks against US troops if they continue participating in combat operations in Sulu.
US troops have been are deployed in Sulu since 2006 and assisting the Philippine military in defeating the Abu Sayyaf. Although security officials deny US forces were directly involved in combat operations, there were numerous reports from civilians and various civil groups that American soldiers actually participated in the operations aimed at capturing or killing militant leaders in Sulu and other parts of Mindanao.
On Thursday, Moro rebels ambushed marine troops in Sulu’s Panamao town and sparking a fierce firefight that left one soldier and three gunmen dead. Nine soldiers were also wounded in the clashes.
The MNLF signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the accord and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards.
Sali last week said the military offensive targeted the MNLF in Sulu. He said Ajibun escaped a military raid last week in the province. (With a report from Geo Solmerano)
Slain US soldiers in Sulu were Special Forces, not Seabees
A photo from the tulsaworld.com shows US Army Staff Sergeant Jack Martin III who was killed Tuesday, September 29, 2009 in the first deadly attack on US forces in the Philippines in seven years. Martin was killed along with Sgt. 1st Class Christopher D. Shaw in this photo from clarionledger.com. And another photo shows tha patch of the 1st Special Forces Group.Defense officials identified those killed as 37-year-old Sgt. 1st Class Christopher D. Shaw of Markham in Illinois, and 26-year-old Staff Sgt. Jack M. Martin III of Bethany, Oklahoma.
“The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Sept. 29 in Jolo Island, the Philippines, from the detonation of an improvised-explosive device. The soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group, Fort Lewis, Wash.,” it said in a statement.
The duo died Tuesday after suspected Abu Sayyaf militants ambushed their convoy in the village of Kagay in Sulu’s Indanan town. One Filipino marine was also killed in the attack.
The Defense Department said the two slain soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group at Fort Lewis.
The statement denied previous pronouncements by the US Embassy in Manila and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines that those killed were members of the US Navy Seabees involved in humanitarian projects in Sulu, one of five provinces under the troubled Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.
Western Mindanao military chief, Marine Major General Benjamin Dolorfino and Philippine military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Brawner told reporters that the slain US soldiers were non-combatants and that they were involved in a school and road projects in Sulu, where security forces are battling Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiya militants, backed by Moro rebels.
Dolorfino said troops were tracking down at least four most senior Abu Sayyaf leaders – Dr Abu, Albader Parad, Isnilon Hapilon and Yasser Igasan – including two foreign Jemaah Islamiya terrorists Mauiya and Quayem and some 200 followers.
The US Department of Defense said the incident is under being investigated.
The killing of the two US Special Forces soldiers further bolstered suspicions that American troops joined counterterrorism operations in Sulu where 42 militants and soldiers were killed in recent clashes in Indanan town.
US troops have been are deployed in Sulu since 2006 and assisting the Philippine military in defeating the Abu Sayyaf. Although security officials deny US forces were directly involved in combat operations, there were numerous reports from civilians and various civil groups that American soldiers actually participated in the operations aimed at capturing or killing militant leaders in Sulu and other parts of Mindanao.
On Thursday, Moro rebels ambushed marine troops in Sulu’s Panamao town and sparking a fierce firefight that left one soldier and three gunmen dead. Nine soldiers were also wounded in the clashes.
The MNLF signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the accord and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards.
Madarang Sali, deputy supreme commander of the Bangsamoro National Liberation Front, said military offensive targeted the MNLF in Sulu. He said government operations were directed as MNLF leader Khaid Ajibunm who had escaped a military raid last week. It was unknown whether the MNLF had anything to do with the attack on the US forces. (Mindanao Examiner)
Friday, October 02, 2009
Tap military reservists in times of calamities
MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles urged Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro to mobilize the reserve commands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to assist in providing relief assistance for the victims of Typhoon Ketsana especially those who are yet to be reached by local government and non-government relief workers.
Nograles also urged Teodoro and the Armed Forces of the Philippines leadership to put in place an automatic system of mobilization that would allow the rapid deployment of AFP reservists in times of calamities.
"I suggest to Secretary Teodoro that he should activate the reserve forces of the Army, Navy and Air Force to assist in relief operations. While we cannot pull out troops from their present locations but he can always activate the reserve forces. This will determine how coordinated we are in the reserve forces since our reservists are also a force to reckon with," Nograles said in a statement.
"If the NDCC can quickly deploy reservists in their areas, I think that our response will be faster and we can better avoid massive loss of lives in times of typhoons and other calamities. Our reservists live in communities and are not inside military camps or in some remote military outposts so they can be quickly tapped to respond in times of crisis. All we need is to have a data on their location and the means to communicate with them. They can be formed into teams depending on their location," Nograles said.
Nograles said that the AFP's reserve command was precisely created as a force multiplier I whether it involves armed conflict or in times of natural calamities and therefore, the AFP leadership should be able to rapidly mobilize and deploy them as quick reaction personnel in times of crisis.
At present there are roughly one million reservists who are with the AFP's Army, Navy and Air Force commands.
He added that basic training for reservists includes rescue, paramedic and survival and this gives them the skill in providing assistance to civilians in times of calamities such as Typhoon Ketsana.
"They can be more effective in providing evacuation assistance, set up observation posts, provide search and rescue assistance and help in the relief operations if we can mobilize and deploy them rapidly. They can be of better use as emergency rapid response personnel instead of using them in dental and medical missions and tree planting," Nograles said.
"We should learn from the lessons of Ketsana and all the past natural tragedy that befell our nation. We cannot fight nature and the only way that we can minimize the loss of lives and destruction of properties is to be fully prepared to respond quickly and rapidly as possible and that should be the primary mission of the AFP's Reserve Command," Nograles said. (Gil Bugaoisan)
Confab on biodiversity, environmental researches set in Mindanao
DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 2, 2009) - A noted Filipino educator have welcomed researches on biodiversity and environment as faculty members and researchers present their studies on the forthcoming conference in the southern Philippines.
“Researches concerning biodiversity and our environment in Mindanao are all welcomed to the fourth part of our series of research conferences,” said Dr Larry Digal.
Dr Digal, Director of the Commission on Higher Education Zonal Research Center in Region XI — University of the Philippines Mindanao, invited all faculty members and researchers from different higher educational institutions and State universities and colleges in the region to present their studies to the research conference on October 20 in Davao City.
Focusing on “Biodiversity and the Environment”, the series of conferences is jointly organized by CHED ZRC 11—UP Mindanao and Davao Colleges and Universities Network with Southern Philippines Agribusiness, Marine and Aquatic School of Technology and Philippine Council of Aquatic and Marine Research and Development of the Department of Science and Techonolgy as the lead institutions.
“It is an opportunity for researchers to share their new knowledge to the public and inspire other scholarly individuals to conduct their own researches,” Digal said in a statement.
He said all interested researchers should submit their Abstracts to the Office of Research at the CHED ZRC 11 in UP-Mindanao in Tugbok District in Mintal in Davao City. They can also send them through e-mail at research@upmin.edu.ph and the deadline of submission is on October 9, he added.
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Audit calamity and intelligence funds, solons ask COA
MANILA, Philippines - A member of the House Committee of Appropriations has asked the Commission on Audit to monitor all the calamity and intelligence funds used by local government units all over the country.
Representative Teodolo Coquilla (Lone District, Eastern Samar) made the call during the hearing of the House Committee on Appropriations on COA's proposed P4.066-billion 2010 budget.
Coquilla said some local government units are declaring state of calamities in their own localities even if the typhoon that passed their province was not that strong or destructive.
Coquilla cited the provincial government of Eastern Samar as one of the provinces that declared a state of calamity, thus was able to spend the province's P100 million-calamity fund.
Appearing before the house body, COA Chairman Reynaldo Villar said the agency would create a team that would look into the issue.
Villar said the commission would base the investigation or auditing on the request that Coquilla would file at the COA office.
"Upon receipt of a complaint or request of an auditing for a calamity fund, the commission may create an investigating team that would look into the matter," Villar said.
Coquilla said several sectors including the church people in the province have been asking how the P100 million-calamity fund, which was still available in February this year, was used by the local government.
Meanwhile, Representatives Darlene Custodio (1st District, South Cotabato) and George Arnaiz (2nd District, Negros Oriental) also asked COA to audit the intelligence funds allegedly released to cities and municipalities all over the country.
Arnaiz said there is a law that governs the limits in releasing or issuing intelligence funds but some cities go beyond the limit because they are being given an exemption by the Department of Interior and Local Government.
"Does the COA have any authority to somehow limit the amount of the intelligence funds being released to LGUs so that it will not be subject to abuse by abusive local executives?" Arnaiz asked.
Arnaiz also cited one small city in Negros Oriental that allegedly received a P700-million intelligence fund as against the release of a P200-million intelligence fund to a bigger city, which is also in his province.
According to Arnaiz, the COA should come up with a report or at least an advice to the different LGUs and the DILG to limit giving exemptions to different LGUs that are asking for intelligence funds way beyond what is advised by law.
The COA assured the committee that it would look into the issue, especially if it is already excessive. (Salvacion Beleo)
Sports dome in Davao City to be named after House Speaker Prospero Nograles
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The head of the Philippines Commission on Higher Education suggested the first modern sports dome in Davao City be named after House Speaker Prospero Nograles.
Chairman Emmanuel Angeles said the idea of having a “Speaker Prospero Nograles Sports Dome” will be a fitting tribute to the first ever Mindanawon House Speaker, who worked hard in securing national funds to finally answer the clamor for the city’s first modern sporting facility.
The soon-to-rise sports dome, which could sit up to 8,000 people, will be built at the University in Southeastern Philippines compound in Barrio Obrero. Angeles heads the USEP Board of Regents.
The only government sporting center around is the now obsolete Davao City Recreation Center, originally named Almendras Gymnasium. It was built during the pre-martial law time of Davao’s only senator, Alejandro Almendras.
Then Mayor Benjamin de Guzman attempted to build the modern Artica Sports Dome in 2000, but it was mothballed by Mayor Rodrigo Duterte upon his return to City Hall in 2001.
To date, Davao City has been left behind by other localities hosting modern sporting arenas. The neighboring Panabo City, whose income is less than 20-percent of Davao City’s close to P4-billion annual take, long built its modern sporting center.
But lawyer Karlo Nograles, the solon’s son and chief of staff, said he has declined the suggestion by the CHED chairman to name the sports dome in USEP after his father.
“The more important thing is for Davao City to have its first modern sporting center,” the young Nograles said.
Angeles said he respected the decision of the young lawyer, but insisted on placing a marker at the dome that would cite the effort of Nograles to build the facility. The CHED chairman said he would personally supervise the placement of the marker in honor of the House Speaker.
The solon’s son said his father only wish is to use the income of the sports dome for its maintenance and fund students’ scholarship in Davao City, particularly in the 1st District where the lawmaker belongs.
Greggo Pantig, project officer of Nograles, said the sports dome will be a 3-storey edifice with spaces allocated for commercial use. He said that engineers have laid out a 6-month construction period for the sports dome.
Pantig said they will ensure the swift completion of the dome similar to the restoration of Governor Generoso Bridge II in Bankerohan that was completed in record time.
Former Councilor Beethoven Orcullo said he wished that the Artica Dome will be finally utilized to further enhance Davao City’s stature as the most progressive locality in the south. He said it was also unfair for taxpayers to shoulder the cost of the Artica Dome construction for nothing.
Unlike the planned USEP sports dome which has no tax burden, the P150-million Artica project was built from bank loan proceeds. The city government has been paying the loan interest and principal amount out of taxes during the past 8 years that the dome was left to elements.
4 dead in fresh fighting in Southern Philippines
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / October 1, 2009) – Fierce fighting between government troops and Moro rebels broke out on Thursday in the southern Philippine island of Sulu killing at least four people on both sides, officials said.
Officials said the fighting erupted at around 11 a.m. in the village of Bitan-ag in Panamao town. One soldier was killed and nine more were wounded in the clashes, said Marine Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, chief of the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.
“One of our soldiers was killed and nine others are wounded in the fighting. Three gunmen were also slain and troops recovered the bodies,” he said.
Other reports in Sulu said the fighting broke out after Moro National Liberation Front rebels ambushed the soldiers and that at least 9 gunmen were slain in the ensuing firefight.
Dolorfino said troops recovered a 90mm recoilless rifle and four munitions, an M16 and AK-47 automatic rifles, including an M1 sniper rifle.
The fighting erupted two days after Abu Sayyaf militants and Moro rebels destroyed a bridge in the town of Indanan, scene of previous clashes that killed 42 gunmen and soldiers.
Last month, Abu Sayyaf gunmen also ambushed a US military convoy, killing two counterterrorism specialists SSG Jack Martin and SFC Christopher Shaw, and a Filipino marine PFC Erwin Estrada – in Kagay village also in the town of Indanan.
A police post was also bomb on Tuesday morning in the village of Kasanyangan in Jolo town, but there were no reports of casualties.
US troops are deployed in Sulu since 2006 and assisting the Philippine military in defeating the Abu Sayyaf. Although security officials deny US forces were directly involved in combat operations, there were numerous reports from civilians that American soldiers actually participated in the operations aimed at capturing or killing militant leaders in Sulu and other areas in the restive southern region of Mindanao.
A US soldier was also killed and another wounded in a bomb attack at a roadside cafe near an army in Zamboanga City in October 2002.
The MNLF signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996, but many of its members were disgruntled with the accord and accused the government of failing to uplift their living standards.
Dolorfino said troops were tracking down at least four most senior Abu Sayyaf leaders – Dr Abu, Albader Parad, Isnilon Hapilon and Yasser Igasan – including two foreign Jemaah Islamiya terrorists Mauiya and Quayem and some 200 followers.
The series of attacks occurred just as troops continue their operation against the Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiya militants tagged as behind the series of bomb attacks and kidnappings for ransom in Sulu, one of five provinces under the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
Madarang Sali, deputy supreme commander of the Bangsamoro National Liberation Front, said military offensive against the MNLF continues in Sulu. He said government operations were directed as MNLF leader Khaid Ajibunm who had escaped a military raid last week. (Mindanao Examiner)
Davao City's Chinese Moon Fest draws Pinoy crowd
The second most important day in the Chinese calendar, the Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Lunar Calendar.
This is when the moon is believed to be in its fullest and roundest.
Today, dubbed as Lantern Lighting Day, Chinatown hosted a variety of activities, including the Chinese Lantern Making Contest at the Peace Archway in Santa Ana Avenue.
The weekend-long night market at Unity Archway along Magsaysay Avenue and Food and Entertainment Fiesta along Chavez Street is expected to draw huge crowds. (Ian Garcia)