Sitangkai police conducted seaborne patrol against lawless elements

Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi -  The Provincial Police Office of Tawi-Tawi under Police Senior Superintendent Jerich Tan Royales alerted all police stations to conduct seaborne patrol along their area of responsibility in order to monitor and protect their people against lawless elements.

Therefore the Sitangkai Municipal Police Station immediately respond the call of the provincial director.

Police here immediately  conducted seaborne patrol along the sea shore of all barangay's of Sitangkai just to pacify and monitor of any suspicious person's around the said municipality.

PO3 Asbud Sirip of Sitangkai Police Station who led the seaborne patrol said, that he is ready anytime in order  to protect the people of Sitangkai and other nearby municipality if needed.

While Police Chief Inspector Alexie A. Desamito, OIC  also said, that his policemen always alert and conducted seaborne patrol  to maintain the peace and order situation under his area of responsibility. (By: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News)

President Duterte hands over cash incentives to SEA Games medalists

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the awarding rites on Wednesday, September 13, for Filipino athletes who won in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Chief Executive gave cash incentives to athletes who won 24 gold medals, 33 silver, and 64 bronze at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan.

The medalists received presidential citations for their feats in the biennial multi-sporting event.

In his speech, the President expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the athletes who have represented the Philippines in the recently concluded SEA Games.

"I congratulate you all, especially our medalists, for the accomplishment that has brought honor to the country. Through hard work and discipline, you have prevailed and made our nation proud,” President Duterte said.

The Chief Executive also congratulated Malaysia for successfully hosting the 29th Southeast Asian Games, noting that the event is a symbol of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ commitment to strengthen partnership and cooperation towards a common goal of a more prosperous and united region.

“I hope we will continue to foster this spirit of goodwill and sportsmanship,” he said.

As the Philippines will host the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019, the President urged the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to widen its scope and recruit nationwide.

Duterte directed the agency to look for athletes in non-traditional places and include members of the indigenous tribes and out-of-school youth.

"Let us give them a chance to hone their talent and live up to their fullest potentials,” he said.

At the same time, the President encouraged the country's athletes to focus on improving their skills and to strive to do better in the next SEA Games.

Duterte assured that the government and the Filipino people will support the athletes “every step of the way.”

“Continue to represent the best of what the Philippines has to offer, here and abroad. Make us proud again," he said. ###PND

President Duterte confers Gawad Mabini award upon 6 DFA officials

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, September 13, conferred the Gawad Mabini Award upon six Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) officials.

During a ceremony at the President’s Hall in Malacañan Palace, the Gawad Mabini with the rank of Dakilang Kamanong (Grand Cross) was conferred upon Undersecretary Enrique Manalo; Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso; Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz; and Ambassador Mario L. de Leon.

The Gawad Mabini with the rank of Dakilang Kasugo (Commander) was conferred upon Vice Consul Theodore Andrei Bauzon and Director Ryan Francis Gener.

The Chief Executive has approved the conferment of the awards for the officials’ dedication and acumen in carrying out the country’s principled and independent foreign policy.

In his message, President Duterte expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the awardees.

The Chief Executive thanked them for upholding and promoting the country’s independent foreign policy “strongly founded on our national interest and carried out through the diversification of our international ties to secure our political, economic, and socio-cultural objectives.”

President Duterte underscored that strengthening the country's foreign relations is not only a sign of goodwill but also ensures that opportunities for trade and commerce, national security and cooperation, will prosper among nations.

The President stressed that the officials’ unwavering dedication has enabled the Philippines to achieve major foreign policy as well as national economic goals.

He said their efforts have safeguarded and promoted the welfare and rights of Filipinos who are living abroad.

“May you continue your exemplary service in advancing the interest and sovereignty of our nation,” President Duterte said.

The Gawad Mabini, established by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 490, s. 1974, is conferred on Filipinos who rendered distinguished foreign service or helped promote the interests and prestige of the Philippines abroad.

Accompanying the President during the ceremony were Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea. ###PND

President Duterte thanks China for assistance to wounded soldiers

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, September 13, expressed gratitude for the assistance of China to soldiers who sustained injuries in the conflict in Marawi City.

The Chief Executive witnessed the turnover of financial donation from the Chinese Embassy to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Malacañan Palace.

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua handed over a P65-million worth of check for wounded-in-action soldiers in the ongoing siege in Marawi City.

President Duterte said the assistance provided would be of great help to the government as it pursues the final stages of its operations against the Maute terrorists in Mindanao.

He also expressed the Filipino people's gratitude for China's continuous assistance to the country during the ongoing rebellion in the Islamic city.

In June, China donated a military aid package which includes rifles and ammunitions intended for the counterterrorism efforts in Marawi City.

The Chief Executive assured that the donations received by his administration would be put to good use.

President Duterte was accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, and AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año. ###PND

Marawi troops receive sacks of rice from ARMM, letters of support from Boy Scouts

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, headed by Honorable Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, donated sacks of rice to the soldiers of the Joint Task Force Marawi on Saturday (September 9).

The 100 sacks of rice were delivered in Camp Ranao, Marawi City via a dump truck and was received by soldiers of the Joint Task Group Ayuda, the unit in charge of logistical goods and supplies, at 11am morning on Saturday.

The rice bags were further brought to the different units inside the main battle area yesterday morning.

"We are very thankful for the continuing support we are receiving from the benevolent heart of the ARMM," said Lieutenant General Rolando Joselito Bautista, commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi.

"Rest assured that our troops will be more motivated to do their duties with all this kindness we are receiving from our fellow government organization."

Meanwhile, letters of support and chocolates sent by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines Zamboanga Chapter were received by our troops in the main battle area.

The goodies and art works brought renewed vigor and added motivation to the troops as the fighting enters its 110th day.

"It is so heartwarming to know that these young boys are well aware of the sacrifices our soldiers are doing here in Marawi," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"The ARMM and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines are only some of the many organizations which have sent their love and support to our troops."

"We are very pleased for their generosity and kindness," added Lieutenant General Galvez.

ARMM Officials, Multi- Sectors, Military and LGU's conducted a 3 -day conf. in Cagayan De Oro

Cagayan De Oro City - For the first time in the history of Lanao del Sur Province, local officials, high-ranking government officials, security and religious sectors, and other multi-sectorial organizations joined together in a three-day conference to discuss the present crisis in Marawi and to establish a common effort among all sectors.

Following the theme, "Towards Establishing a Unified Strength in Combating Violent Extremism," the 200 attendees came into an understanding on how they can individually and collectively take part and take actions in addressing the crisis in Marawi City, and in countering violent extremism in Mindanao.

They also discussed proposed security measures and formulated a statement that was presented to the Secretary of the National Defense, Honorable Delfin Lorenzana, during the culmination of the activity.

The Ulama-LGU Executives-Multi-Sectorial Groups Conference was held at N. Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City from September 4-6, 2017.

On Wednesday morning (September 6), Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command; Major General Ronald Villanueva, commander of the 4th Infantry Division; Brigadier General Ramiro Rey, commander of the Joint Task Group Ranao; Governor Mujiv S Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao; Mamintal Adiong, Jr., Lanao del Sur Vice Governor; and Mayor Majul Gandamra of Marawi City were among those present to grace the culmination ceremony.

They were welcomed by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, who said that the conference was the “first of its kind.”

The committee presented its statement to the Defense Secretary and key officials who responded to the concerns raised by the members of the said committee.

In his response, ARMM Governor Hataman said, “The problem in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is a national issue that demands the involvement of every individual, not only of the local chief executive or the president, and an outright solution that cannot simply be resolved in conferences, such as this."

Hataman further averred that violent extremism is one of the greatest challenges confronted by the Ulama.

“If the terrorists are willing to die for their wrong beliefs, then we have to fight for what is right. I hope they (terrorists) are willing to lose their lives when we are already there to defend ourselves. 

Tama na ang conferences. We have to act now and fight against their wrong ideologies. Ang kilos natin ngayon ay para imulat ang mga darating na henerasyon at ang buong sambayanan upang alamin ang ating kuwento,” he added.

For his part, the Marawi City Mayor also said, "Let us unite to resolve violent extremism and terrorism in Mindanao. Ako rin po ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng nandito na patuloy na nagsusuporta sa amin. Nagkaroon po ako ng baptism of fire; I was able to encounter the greatest challenge in my life. I am your seeking your all-out support as we continue the fight in Marawi City."

The final and the most applauded response is from the Secretary of National Defense himself, Honorable Delfin Lorenzana: "I live near a mosque and I grew up listening to that prayer, and today it brings more meaning. 

The way the Ustadz was singing it, it was a good rendition for it was a cry for help to Allah."

Saying that he was elated to see that everyone is working together for the rehabilitation of Marawi City, the Defense Secretary added: “We are here because we have a common desire to resolve the issues that weaken our nation. Our country is facing a lot of problem that include terrorism, drug and crime syndicates. Let us continue to work together in countering these problems and in rebuilding our institutions."

The Defense Secretary also provided positive response to the issues presented by the body in the statement they have crafted. Among others are the issues on rehabilitation, military reservations, establishment of a pro-active community defense system, and establishment of a fix support system to the Madrasah operations.

Making the activity more solid and meaningful were the presence of the Ulama League of the Philippines; the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Lanao del Sur; the Mayors' League of Lanao del Sur; the Philippine Medical Association; the traditional leaders and sultanate; the business sector; the Moro Islamic Liberation Front; and the Philippines Councilors' League.

Tandubas LGU conducted Anti-Drug and terrorism summit

BY: Becky  D. de Asis-The Redline News

Tandubas, Tawi-Tawi – The Municipal Police Station headed by P/SInspector Almira A. Relox with the Local Government Unit headed by Mayor Rahiema Salih and Vice Mayor Fatima Saida A. Maing conducted  the 1st LGU Summit on Anti-Drugs and terrorism in order to give the  exact information about the effects of this menace of the country.

The said summit attended different sectors of Tandubas including religious sectors, Barangay Tanod, BPATS, Municipal Emloyees, Barangay Officials and among others.

Mayor Rahiema Salih  urging the people of Tandubas to please cooperate to the police and other peacekeepers agencies to fight against drugs and terrorism because this is the only way to have a peaceful living conditions  of  their municipality. 

“I will not hesitate to funish  everyone involving drug businesses here  or even conniving with the terrorists, I will do the best way to arrests them and put them into  jail”, said the mayor.

Therefore, Vice Mayor Fatima Saida Maing also added, that she do the best way to help her constituents to fight against drugs and terrorism because she don't  want her constituents jailed or even killed because of using or involving drugs or even terrorism, Maing  said in an interview.

Meanwhile PSI Relox also said, that she urging  also the people and even the municipal government to help them the  mandates of the government  to fight against drugs and terrorism.

“Everybody here want to live peacefully, I urging you all to help us , and report immediately if do you have any reports in your areas involving drugs, so that we can respond immediately to arrests them”, said Relox during the summit last August 17, 2017.

President Duterte boosts soldiers’ morale in latest Marawi visit

President Rodrigo Duterte visited Marawi City anew on Monday, September 11, to boost the morale of soldiers assuring them of government's continued support and assistance.

In his speech at the Battleground Command Post, President Duterte told the soldiers that he would reward the soldiers and give them time to rest once the situation in the Islamic city returns to normalcy.

"Tapusin natin 'to, tapos bakasyon muna kayo," he said.

He explained that he does not want violence in the region but he has to do something to protect Mindanao from ISIS-backed Maute rebellion.

He also lamented that he has special affinity to the Maranao people but because the Mautes committed the crime of rebellion he is mandated to address it.

The President was dismayed when local extremists adopted the ISIS ideology, which he said only led to destruction like what happened in Syria, Iraq and Libya.

President Duterte also pledged to provide the military and the police with all the equipment they need from guns to helicopters and medical equipment needed by wounded soldiers.

He said that everything has to be brand new like the planes and helicopters that the military will be using.

He also thanked China for its assistance saying that Beijing "has been very good" to Manila.

"I am grateful to them. Let's thank them because everything that they gave us are of good quality," he added.

Before departing, the President thanked the soldiers for their commitment and dedication to serve the people and protect the country.

"Thank you very much. Don’t be too restless there, just stay put. Let me salute you. I’ll be the one who will salute you. Thank you very much for your service to our nation. Thank you, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Police," he said. ###PND

5 Abus slain, 2 hostages rescued by troops in Sulu

Following a 30-minute firefight with the military, five Abu Sayyaf bandits were slain by troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu on Thursday.

The fierce gunfight between elements of the 41st Infantry Battalion and the Abu Sayyaf under its sub-leader Idang Susukan ensued in Barangay Upper Binuang, Talipao, Sulu at 6:11am last September 7.

The bodies of the five Abu Sayyaf bandits were retrieved by the troops in the area of engagement.

Further seized were an M14 rifle and an M16 rifle with an M203 grenade launcher.

"Operating troops are currently scouring the area and are maneuvering forces as pursuit on the evading Abu Sayyaf bandits continue in the area,” said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

Meanwhile, two Indonesian captives held by the group were rescued in Indanan, Sulu at 6:30am on the same day.

Sarapuddin Koni and Sawal Maryam, both crew members of a Malaysian trawler, were rescued by the Philippine Marine Ready Fleet Sulu, under Colonel Antonio V. Rosario, Jr., in Barangay Bunot, Indanan, Sulu.

The two kidnap victims were aboard a vehicle when they were intercepted by the Marine troopers.

"Marine troops successfully rescued Koni and Maryam through the assistance of the Moro National Liberation Front,” said Rear Admiral Rene Medina, Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

"Close coordination was made with organizations that can help the rescue of these kidnap victims. We are lucky our plans have coincided and have resulted in the successful rescue," added Rear Admiral Medina.

The rescued hostages were brought to the headquarters of the PMRFS for medical checkup and debriefing.

They were abducted by five Abu Sayyaf members on Marabong waters near Kunah District in Sabah on November 19, 2016.

"I would like to congratulate our soldiers of the JTF Sulu for this very successful feat," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Our units are continually conducting offensives and maximizing intelligence operations in order to rescue the kidnap victims that are still in the hands of the ASG."

"In the effort of our units, we are sad to report that five of our men incurred minor wounds. They were promptly evacuated to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Hospital in Busbus, Jolo, Sulu, and were given immediate medical attention," added Lieutenant General Galvez.

In Zamboanga del Norte, five armed men aboard a red van abducted a businessman in Labason last September 6.

Jade Quimbo, 30 years old and son of Labason Mayor Eddie Quimbo, was supervising his hardware store when the perpetrators arrived and forcibly grabbed him at 6pm Wednesday.

Quimbo was forced to board the red vehicle, which headed towards Sitio Ulingan, Osukan in Labason. They subsequently boarded a motorized boat towards Bayangan island.

"We have created an Anti- Kidnapping Task Force, headed by Rear Admiral Medina, that will specifically deploy and react when there are kidnapping incidents," added the WestMinCom Chief.

"I have given immediate guidance to Rear Admiral Medina to immediately deploy all assets available for the conduct of a search and rescue operation along the waters of the ZamBaSulTa area. As of this report, intelligence operations are continuously being intensified to intercept the perpetrators."

Navy ship transports heavy equipment for Marawi rehab

A navy ship carrying heavy equipment and relief goods arrived at Iligan Port on Saturday (September 9), three days after a sea travel from South Harbor Pier 15 in Manila.

The Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Lanao del Sur docked around 9 in the morning at the port of Iligan and unloaded 4 heavy equipment of the Army Engineers and the Navy Seabees that will be utilized during the rehabilitation phase of Marawi City.

The two-pay loaders and two backhoes will temporarily be kept at Balo-i area so that it will be in proximity to Marawi City when the construction work starts.

Also shipped with the equipment are boxes of relief goods intended for the Internally Displaced Persons from Marawi City, who are now temporarily staying at the different evacuation centers in Saguiaran, Balo-i, Pantar, and Iligan City.

The boxes contained undergarments, sanitary napkins, diapers, hygiene kits, slippers, blankets, art materials, toys, and medicines.

"With the arrival of these additional equipment, we can now proceed to the reconstruction of iconic structures which were damaged due to the fighting," said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"These equipment will also be utilized during the construction of temporary houses for the IDPs in Barangay Sagongsongan and in other shelters that will be identified."

"The relief goods will be turned over to the appropriate agency responsible for it's distribution through the Joint Task Force Bangon Marawi. We will assist the JTF Marawi during the distribution of these relief goods," added Lieutenant General Galvez.

ASEAN Information Ministers tackle fake news

"The proliferation of fake news is real and this has negative impact in our world today."

Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), the current chair of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI), pointed this out during a roundtable discussion with the Information Ministers of the ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The meeting, with the theme, "Countering Fake News and Communicating the Right Information", was held in Quezon City on Saturday (September 9) at the Seda Hotel North Vertis

Andanar said he proposed the holding of the round table discussion so that the ASEAN Information Ministers "can exchange ideas and find ways to collectively address the negative consequences brought about by the spread of fake news."

The Roundtable Discussion focused on four topics: Country Experiences on Fake News; Practical Measures to Counter Fake News; Possible Government Initiatives to Ensure that the Right Information is Communicated; and Possible Cooperation Initiatives on Countering Fake News and Communicating the Right Information.

Joining Andanar in the Roundtable Discussion were the Information Ministers from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan also sat as observers.

Andanar proposed the setting up of a mechanism for regular monitoring of news among the ASEAN member-states, especially on significant issues of interest. This monitoring/nerve center, which can be called the ASEAN Communications Centre (ACC), Andanar said, can be housed at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, with inputs to be provided by the official news agencies or information ministries of the ASEAN member-states.

Andanar recalled that years ago, there was an ASEAN News Exchange Mechanism (ANEX) composed of the official news agencies of the ASEAN member-states, but this was overtaken by the advent of the internet. This can be revisited and considered for revival, he said.

At present, he said, the ASEAN Committee on Culture and Information implements the ASEAN Television News (ATN) project.

The PCOO Secretary noted that the materials exchanged among the ASEAN member-states, through Brunei Darussalam as the country coordinator, are mostly feature stories since these are sent only on a weekly basis and even less often.

Andanar suggested that the participants conduct a dialogue with Google, Facebook, and other social media sites to explore how these social media networks can help ASEAN in countering fake news and communicating the right information.

Oscar Franklin Tan, columnist of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, shared practical measures on how to deal with and counter fake news, especially those that proliferate online.

The other members of the Philippine delegation were Undersecretary Noel George Puyat, PCOO; Dino Apolonio, GM, PTNI; Harold E. Clavite, Director General, Philippine Information Agency; Demic Pabalan, Executive Director, RTVM; Rizal Aportadera, Director, RP; Benjie Felipe, Director, MMPM and Atty. Kristian Ablan, Assistant Secretary for Policy and Legislative Affairs, PCOO.###ASEAN-CMASC

President Duterte confers Order of Lapu-Lapu to wounded-in-action soldiers in CDO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on September 9, Saturday, visited the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) and conferred medals to 76 military personnel recovering from injuries at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) here.

The Commander-in-Chief presented medals of the Order of Lapu-Lapu to the men of the Armed Forces who sustained injuries in the government’s efforts to liberate Marawi City from the terrorist Maute group.

The President also gave each of the awardees a cellular phone, cash gift and brand new service firearms.

In his speech, President Duterte acknowledged the importance of the servicemen’s efforts and reiterated the administration’s commitment to improve their lives and increase their benefits due them for the service to the country.

“Try to be alive and fight for the country. Our duty here is to protect the people and to preserve itong Pilipinas natin. Medyo magulo pero kaya nagsakripisiyo kayo… Sa lahat ng Pilipino ngayon, ang pinaka-mahirap at pinaka-mabigat na nagbibigay na contribution sa bayan nila, kayo,” President Duterte said.

“Patapusin lang natin itong gulo dito. It will not stop until the last terrorist is taken out. ‘Yun ang sinabi ko sa bayan. ‘Yan ang ating dapat sundin,” he added.

The President assured that the troops would have everything that they need, including the education of their children through the P50 billion trust fund that he is currently raising for them.

“Wala kayong problema sa medisina, sa ospital, sa pamilya ninyo. Lahat ng nawalaan ng husband, lahat may trabaho. Lahat --- biyuda, may trabaho ngayon. Automatic ‘yan. At ako na ang sumasagot sa edukasyon ng inyong pamilya,” he said.

“Gusto ko, kung maawa si Allah, mag-abot tayo ng 50 billion. ‘Yung 50 billion, para lang ‘yun sa edukasyon ng mga anak ninyo,” he added.

He also encouraged the soldiers to make use of their direct access to him.

“Kayo ba may lahat na cellphone? Ito ha. Kaya ko kayo binigyan ng cellphone isa’t-isa. Una, gusto ko na may access kayo sa Commander-in-Chief,” Duterte said.

“Tawag kayo. Gusto ko na makatawag kayo diretso sa akin. ‘Yan ang gusto ko ha. May chain of command tayo pero gusto ko na kayo mismo ang makatawag sa akin sa problema na hindi mo kaya, ng opisyal, ng Army, Air Force o Marines, dito kayo sa akin mag-diretso. Sosolbahin natin ‘yang problema ninyo,” he assured.

Meanwhile, in an interview following his speech to the WIA soldiers, Duterte said Maute terrorists will be given due process if they surrender to the government.

“We will try them, give them due process, provide them with a lawyer… there will be no oppression or harassment, or anything. No violence will be inflicted upon them if they surrender,” Duterte said.

“'Yan ang i-guarantee ko sa inyo. Pag mag-surrender sila, walang… ‘yung sabihin mo na bugbugin mo o you oppress o gutumin. Nothing of the sort. I will not also allow it. That is not the way how we treat people, especially even they're criminals. They are not POWs to me. They're simply criminals. Period,” he said.

In the same media interview, Duterte said he will be exposing bank accounts of Senator Antonio Trillanes.

“May mga account 'yan na joint. Ang kasama niya, puro Chinese tapos paulit-ulit 'yung pangalan. But it's in Hong Kong, in Malaysia, then there's in Australia, and meron rin sa United States,” Duterte said.

“He has been at it against me, my son, and my family since election. Tapos na 'yung kampanya, and when I thought all the while na ganoon talaga pulitika. Pero ito, he is bent on destroying me. So I destroy him or he will destroy me. Ganun lang 'yan eh,”he said.###PND

16 ft crocodile captured in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi

Courtesy of Tawi-Tawi Provincial Police Office/P/SSupt. Jerich Tan Royales ,  LGU and PNP  of Simunul. 

Bongao, Tawi-Tawi – Police Senior Superintendent Jerich Tan Royales confirmed today regarding the 16ft salt water crocodile  known as Crocodylus Porosus or also known as the Estuarine Crocodile captured by residents in  Sokah Bulan, Simunul of the said province here.

The salt water crocodile ,the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest riparian predator in the world  just like in Simunul crocodile captured earlier.

The  said Crocodylus Porosus ( Buwaya or crocodile )  was seen by residents here swimming along the sea shore of the said barangay last Friday.

This is the next  largest reptile from Lolong was captured in Bunawan creek in the province of Agusan del Sur last September 03, 2011  measured.17 m (20 ft 3 in), and weighed 1,075 kg (2,370 lb) the world's largest crocodile in captivity according to  Guinness World Record  but unfortunately Lolong was died last February 10, 2013 caused of Pneumonia.

The said crocodile was turned over to municipal government of Simunul  as of presstime..(By: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

27 recovered cadavers buried in Marawi City

Twenty-seven cadavers retrieved by security forces from the Main Battle Area were buried in Marawi City last Tuesday (September 5).

The remains, believed to be civilians declared missing since fighting erupted, were transported by personnel of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office aboard seven military vehicles from Capin Funeral Homes in Iligan City to Maqbarah in Marawi City, where they will be laid to rest.

Soldiers of the Joint Task Group Ranao under Brigadier General Ramiro Rey facilitated the transport of the remains to the area at 7am of the same day.

Present were the local government unit of Marawi City; the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office of Marawi City; the PDRRMO Lanao del Sur; and the Scene of the Crime Operative.

"The remains will undergo the process of ‘Dingdinghali,’ a tradition observed by Muslim in burying the dead with pieces of bamboo and in citing a prayer for more than seven to 10 minutes,” said Nasser Alonto Maniri of the Prv’l Maqbarah Cemetery.

The owner of the Capin Funeral Homes said, "After retrieval, the remains were brought to the funeral homes and were made to undergo the embalming procedure in accordance with the Muslim rite. 

We have to wait for the advice of the SOCO criminal laboratory and the results of the autopsy and the DNA tests. 

The remains will then be buried upon advice of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office and the Department of Interior and Local Government,” said Danilo Capin of the Capin Funeral Homes.

Capin added that the remains were not claimed or identified by the next of kin.

"We appeal to the public, especially those who have relatives and kins that are still missing, to approach the Provincial Crisis Management Committee or the Missing Person Center in Iligan City and submit swab samples for the ante mortem procedure," said Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, the spokesperson of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee.

"Others who may have difficulty reaching the office of the Provincial Crisis Management at the Provincial Capitol or the MPC of SOCO in Iligan City may contact the International Committee of the Red Cross to report the identity of their missing relatives," he added.

Troops also retrieved skeletal remains in Barangay Lilod Madaya at 7:30am Monday (September 4).

Said remains were turned over to the Scene of the Crime Operatives and the BFP. 

They were subsequently brought to Capin Funeral Homes in Iligan City and transported by the troops in Marawi City for the burial.

Said skeletal remains, however, were not yet buried today pending the identification process.

"We pay our highest respect to the souls of those who were laid to rest," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

We will continue to pursue the identification of these remains and support the process of the concerned and authorized offices and units."

"We hope that soon, the families will be able to identify and find their loved ones and family members."

Representing Brigadier General Bautista is Col onelJose Maria Cuerpo, the deputy commander of the Joint Task Group Haribon, and Lieutenant Colonel Jason Jumawan, the battalion commander of the 82nd infantry Battalion.

The burial is the second of its kind since the siege in Marawi started last May. The first one was last July, which was also facilitated by the Marawi City DRRMO and the Lanao del Sur PDRRMO.

BM Dan Navarro welcomed Speaker Pantaleon Alvares in Ozamis City

Ozamis City  -  PDP Laban Misamis Occidental Secretary General Board Member Dan Navarro welcomed the  House Speaker Pantaleon Alvares , the National Secretary General of PDP Laban yesterday.

Alvares arrives in Ozamiz City just to attend  and witnessed  the mass oath taking  of the new members of the  party  of the said city. (Mike Navarro)

2 Abduction’s Suspect Nabbed in Sirawai yesterday

Zamboanga City - Elements of Zamboanga Del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company and Sirawai MPS has arrested two suspicious persons in Sirawai Municipality of the said province  at about 6:30 yesterday morning.

The arrested persons were identified as SoudiPondusan Banguih, 36 year old, married and a resident of Brgy Danganon, Sirawai and Edilberto   Sarmago  Albino,   61   years   old,   married   and   a   resident   of   Brgy  Antonino,Labason.

Police said that Both  persons   allegedly  were   involved   in   the   recent   abduction  of   Jed  Tiu Quimbo   in   Labason earlier.

The suspects identified by witnesses through    CCTV   footage   and confirmation of the witness Jolito Timanono Rodillos, who was with the victim during theincident.

He directly identified that the two (2) aforementioned suspects were involved and companion with the abductors during the time of incident.

Arrested suspects  presently detained at Labason MPS for proper filing  of case in court

Classes resume in 12 public schools in Marawi City

Classes resumed in 12 public elementary schools in Marawi City, as clashes between security forces and Daesh-inspired fighters continue in the main battle area on Tuesday (September 5).

Brigadier General Rolando Joselito Bautista, commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi, said classes in Sultan Conding Elementary School, Sikap Elementary School, Cabingan Primary School, Banga Elementary School, Datu Tambak Elementary School, Rorogagus Elementary School, Bito Elementary School, Pendolonan Elementary School, Abdulazis Elementary School, Camp Bagong Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School, Sugod Elementary School, and Mipaga Elementary School started Tuesday morning.

"We are nearing the end of the battle with the gun fight confined to the main battle area in the besieged city. Security measures are being tightened to preempt any attempts by the terrorists to hamper classes,” added Brigadier General Bautista.

As classes in 12 elementary and secondary schools start on Tuesday, the different Joint Task Groups under JTF Marawi had series of conferences, discussing security preparations and arrangements to ensure that faculty and students will feel safe when they come to their campuses.

"This is one of the steps taken by the security forces and the local government units to bring normalcy in the city. We are taking a gradual phase because we want to ensure that we are doing the right thing and that we are putting to primacy the welfare of the Maranaos,” said the Commander Joint Task Force Marawi.

"We are optimistic that as long as everyone is taking the same path, we will surely win this war against terrorism," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command. 

"I have always said that 'education is the antidote for peace', and with that, your Armed Forces will make sure that we will continue to work for the rehabilitation of the other schools, colleges and universities within the city that were affected by this crisis. We will be with the people in taking the road to normalcy," added the WestMinCom Chief.

On August 22, six hundred students were transported from Iligan City to the campus of the Mindanao State University in Marawi City as classes resumed in the said university.

As of last Friday (September 1), more than 9,000 students of MSU joined the University's 56th Founding Anniversary celebration with LTGen Galvez as their Guest of Honor and Speaker.

Anchored on the theme “MSU @ 56: A Thousand Minds Illuminating the Path to Recovery, Peace, and Development for Marawi City,” the anniversary celebration was held at the university gymnasium from 9am to 12noon last Friday.

The Vice President for Administration and Finance Officer in Charge, Atty Jamaloden Basar said in his welcome message, "Unity in diversity is not a myth. What we have done here can attest to that line."

"We may be different in our beliefs but we are the same in one goal: we want to promote peace and education in the lives of the next generation," Basar added.

"We feel safe that among the soldiers are MSU graduates, who we consider are already part of the MSU family. Surely with the MSU alumni, the soldiers will never leave us behind."

Following the opening of the schools, other government offices will also soon start cleaning their respective offices in Marawi City for the possible resumption of their operations.

AFP beefing up efforts to ensure safer roadways in Marawi

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday, September 8, assured that the government is doubling its efforts in ensuring the safety of roadways after a civilian died of a stray bullet near the Mindanao State University (MSU).

“Our local Crisis Committee in Marawi, together with our Task Force Group Ranao under General Rey, are working doubly hard to ensure the safety of some specific roadways that have figured in some incidents, particularly yesterday, when a member of a government agency was hit by a stray bullet,” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, Jr. said during the regular Mindanao Hour briefing in Malacañan.

“The gate of MSU where this incident occurred has been closed and traffic along that thoroughfare has been rerouted to safer areas as a result of this development,” Padilla said.

Padilla added that Task Force Group Ranao has beefed up its forces in the area, especially around MSU, and will provide additional men to ensure the safety of motorists and residents in those particular areas that figured in the incident, adding that classes in a nearby private school were likewise suspended following the incident.

Padilla however said classes at the MSU will continue because the area is well secured.

“There are forces that are detailed there to conduct checkpoints and to ensure that no groups will be able to penetrate from a safe distance,” he said.

The AFP spokesperson meanwhile said the area where the Maute rebels remain confined has already been reduced to about 20 hectares.

“Fighting has been very fierce. It has been at close quarter battle in the area. But our forces are determined and are focused to seek to end this rebellion as soon as possible,” Padilla assured.

Padilla added that they received word from the ground that only one of the seven Maute brothers remains alive.

“We got word from the commander on the ground, Lieutenant General [Carlito] Galvez, and as you have been hearing the last few days, they have reason to believe that only one of the Maute brothers remains in the fight, and this is Omar,” he said.

Padilla, however, said that the AFP has yet to recover the bodies of the other Maute members and subject them to DNA testing before they could issue a categorical statement.

He noted, however, that various information made available to the troops, including revelations from rescued hostages, point to this development.

Construction of 9-hectare Transitional Shelter Site starts

In a statement by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima, meanwhile, he said that the construction of the nine-hectare Transitional Shelter Site has already started.

“As promised by Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chair Eduardo Del Rosario, the construction of temporary shelters in the 9-hectare Transitional Shelter Site provided by the Marawi City Government will start today,” Purisima stated.

“The team in charge has arrived in Marawi City yesterday to facilitate the necessary coordination for the start of the construction today,” he added.

Palace welcomes rescue of Indonesian hostages from ASG

In other news, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Palace welcomes the recent rescue by government troops of two Indonesian hostages from the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) after an encounter in Sulu on Thursday, September 7.

“Our operations against the members of the ASG remain focused and intense, especially as they continue their acts of violence and terrorism,” Abella stressed.

Malacañang assures cooperation of Executive branch in Senate investigation of teenage suspect slays

Meanwhile, Abella said the government is keen on working with lawmakers in its investigation on the death of Carl Angelo Arnaiz and Reynaldo de Guzman.

“We are one with the public in condemning the suspicious deaths of Carl Angelo Arnaiz and [Reynaldo] de Guzman. The Executive, through the Philippine National Police, will cooperate with the Senate investigation and any other investigations called for,” Abella said.

The Palace official also reiterated that rogue cops have no place in the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“Rogue cops, if and when allegations are proven true, have no place in an institution like the Philippine National Police and we need everyone’s full support and cooperation as we continue to cleanse its ranks,” Abella said.

According to the Palace official, the recent killing of De Guzman and Arnaiz is a deep concern.

“Any death, any violent, even just one single violent death is a call for concern, especially with the younger ones. As we all know, the President is very concerned and deeply protective of the next generation,” Abella said.

He said it is important to maintain more solid family relationships and to keep the children away from questionable activities, or even companions.

Abella, meanwhile, thanked the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee for giving Vice Mayor Duterte and Atty. Carpio the chance to debunk baseless allegations.

“While nearly all senators showed respect for truth and reason, we caution against a particular one, who made baseless claims of purported bank accounts and body markings and then prodded witnesses to disprove his claims instead of presenting validating proofs,” Abella said.

“His tactics had been foisted on public and media time and again. And the only way to stop this is to demand proof from anyone making baseless claims,” he added.###PND