Philippines' first peace monument unveiled in Zamboanga City, Mindanao

Individuals, groups and institutions led by Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ) and Interreligious Solidarity Movement for Peace (IRSMP) gathered yesterday infront of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Barangay Sta. Maria, in this city, to unveil a peace monument.

Fr. Angel Calvo, PAZ president, accompanied by Dr. Grace Rebollos, president of Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), and Prof. Ali Yacub, chairman of Golden Crescent Consortium of Peace Builders and Affiliates (GCCPBA) officially unveiled the first ever peace monument in the country.

An indigenous offerings and ceremonial ritual with smoke and incense as well as thanksgiving, flowers offering, and a prayer for peace were also held. Organizers said the offerings were giving themselves to Almighty God as the over all Peace Weaver of our time.

"As we cleanse ourselves, we commit to live in a new space for peace, peace within ourselves, peace among our neighbors, peace with nature and peace with our Great Provider," one of the organizers, Ms. Pangilinan, said in a prepared statement.

The statement further states, "In this symbolic gathering, we share flowers among ourselves to show love and respect of the individual; the smoke and the incense is the symbol of cleansing and driving away negative forces...and salt as it spread around the area drive away negative forces that may cause indiferrence or misunderstanding...let all symbols remind us to preserve and promote peace to all mankind."

Father Calvo told a crowd which included Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPPAP) Secretary Teresita Deles who graced the peace monument unveiling ceremony, Councilors Al Jihan Edding, Myra Paz Abubakar, as well as high ranking military and police officials and PAZ/IRSMP members: "This (monument) is reminder for all of us and the future generation of our aspiration of harmony among the people of Zamboanga."

Calvo said: "This is anchoring the reality of our hands. We proclaim peace in our hands...the mosaic represents the Muslims, Lumads and other tribes of Christians in the area that is our symbol to be a reminder to preserve and a symbol for all for us living in Zamboanga, coming to Zamboanga together or nearby the airbase with our aspiration of peace anchoring with the reality. We hope that the monument will be a monument to remind us all of our common commitment to peace."

The "First Peace Monument" was created by Tausug artist Rameer Tawasil. It is shaped like a peace dove and hand extending peace.

Secretary Deles congratulated and thanked Tawasil for contributing his talent in creating the peace monument that they have unveiled. "I will wish to return to this monument everytime I am in Zamboanga."

She said: "We build monuments and markers of remembrance to maintain to a past that we want future generations remember...we build monuments because remembering is a part of healing and a necessary step for moving on and forward."

She mentioned the "Social Contract with the Filipino People" of President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III. "It is not called a promise. Of the 16 provisions in the contract, number 14 focuses on the issue of peace in Mindanao. It said from a disjointed, short-sighted Mindanao policy that merely reacts to events and incidents to one that seeks a broadly supported just peace and will redress decades of neglect of the Moro and other peoples of Mindanao." - HG

Maguindanao massacre victims' kin urge for speedy prosecution of Ampatuans

Prayers, offering of flowers, lighting of candles, and demonstrations in remembering the 57 victims of Maguindanao massacre were held Tuesday in the remote town of Ampatuan to mark the first anniversary of the carnage.

A huge crowd, including local journalists from the different regions and foreign countries as well as multi-sectoral group leaders and non governmental organizations, gathered in a remote hill at Barangay Salman, where the slaughter occured Nov. 23, 2009.

Tuesday's ceremony in Ampatuan town began at 8:00 a.m., the country’s worst political massacre that shocked the world and gained media international and United Nation attention.

Military and police security forces backed by combat vehicles along the road towards the hilly site, where the massacre took place, had a very sizable size presence to secure the area.

The families and relatives of massacre victims led by Maguindanao Governor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu, whose wife Jenalyn was among those killed in the slaughter, called for a speedy prosecution of the accused.

"A year has passed but justice still remains unserved. I have mixed emotions as I stand before you today. I wish I could tell you that after one year, the case is about to be concluded," Mangudadatu said in a prepared statement.

The Ampatuans, their conspirators and accomplices shall in no time be convicted. However, that is not the case here. It pains me to think that despite the evidence presented by the prosecution, the major suspects in the case are yet to be arraigned."

Considering that the number of victims involved in the masssacre, Mangudadatu said its negative impact to the country and the media attention it received internationally as well as the slow progress of the case is to say disappointing.

Despite having been put behind bars, the Ampatuans remain influential through their allies who are powered by their ill-gotten wealth and weapons, according to Mangudadatu.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, who was present at the commemoration, vowed to focus her attention on the prosecution of those implicated in the massacre.

Reading the statement of President Benigno Aquino III, De Lima says: "Today the wheels of justice grind on. 57 cases are pending before the Regional Trial Court 221 of Quezon City. 49 of the 196 accused in the case have been arraigned and 81 have been arrested. One alleged victim remains missing. His body was never found."

The President's statement furthers, "The resolution of these cases has become the litmus test of our justice system. It in one of the top priorities of the Justice Department. We will not rest until justice has been served. Today we agai offer our condolences to the families of the victims and vow to do everything in our power to achieve a timely resolution of this case and esnure that this does not happen again."

Relatives of the victims also made emotional appeals for justice.

Journalists placed flowers and lit candles on the area, where many of the media colleagues were dugged up. They also released white doves and white baloons in memory of the victims.

A foreign journalist Deborah Muir, who is senior member of the Australia-based International Federation of Journalists, called for a speedy and comprehensive justice for all the Maguindanao massacre victims.

Meanwhile, Governor Mangudadatu asked the people to be cautious against the influences of the Ampatuans.

"Let us be vigilant so that we may restore not only peace and order in the province of Maguindanao but also the wealth ill gotten by them from the people. We should remain hopeful despite the slow progress of the case. Let us pray that justice shall be served in an inexpensive and expeditious manner. Let us pray that such event, one of the darkest moments in 21st century will never be repeated."

The Mindanao Human Rights Action Center, Inc. also issued statament wishing to express its solidarity with the families of the victims and support for their unwavering determination to seek justice.

"The quest for justice and peace must continue...justice is sought. Justice must be delivered. No ifs,not buts...our calls for justice for the victims of the November 23 massacre is ther same call we make for ALL victims of human rights violations throughout the conflict affected areas of Mindanao," the statement said.

Let our commemoration of the martyrdom of the November 23 victims be a moment for all of us to: reflect of the nexus between the conflict and human rights violations; strengthen our resolve to seek a just and negotiated end to the conflict; and strengthen our commitment to pursue justice for all victims of human rights violations. No peace without human rights. No human rights without peace."

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Tragic incident in Zamboanga: 3 killed, 6 injured

Fate intervened in the cruelest way possible, a Muslim public school teacher was stabbed to death by an ex-convict few days before she was to get married.

One witness, a 12-year old girl who was in a state of trauma, recounted the stabbing spree inside their classroom at Talisayan Elementary School in the city's westcoast.

It was Friday afternoon, October 22, 2010, a knife-wielding ex-convict who ran amok barged into the classroom and stabbed teachers and students one by one.

Six other people were also wounded in the attack that occurred at 1:45 in the afternoon inside the classrooms, where teachers were holding their classes.

The suspect, who was identified as Feli Mateo, was also killed after angry villagers, overpowered, mauled and beat him to death with stones.

The motive of the attack was unknown, but village officials confirmed that the attacker was an ex-convict.

It was learned from police officials, the suspect was the caretaker of a fighting cock farm owned by Leonito Narvaez.

The suspect was convicted for rape in 1981 and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, his sentence was commuted and later released in 2008.

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ASFP, JICA perform groundbreaking/turnover of over P25 million projects in Lamitan, Basilan

The ARMM seeks to improve the current socio-economic condition of Lamitan, Basilan in support of its current developmental thrusts that include among others the establishment of vital transport infrastructure facilities (roads, bridges, ports and other support facilities).

ARMM Social Fund Project Manager Nasser Sinarimbo on Friday, October 15, 2010, perfomed the groundbreaking of the improvement of Lamitan Port (construction of passenger terminal building) and concreting of Parangbasak- Bolehebong road in Lamitan, Basilan Province.

Japan International Cooperation Agency expert Tito Oria Sr. who represented JICA Chief Representative Norio Matsuda and Lamitan Mayor Roderick Furigay accompanied Engr. Sinarimbo in the two groundbreaking of ASFP projects in Barangay Kulay Bato and Barangay Parangbasak, as well as turnover of completed health and multi-purpose centers in Barangay Baungos.

In an interview, Sinarimbo said the local government of Basilan identified the projects through Lamitan Mayor Furigay whose effort was approved by ARMM Social Fund's Regional Economic Development Planning Board, and positively reciprocated by the administration of ARMM Regional Governor Ansaruddin Alonto Adiong with fundings from JICA.

According to Sinarimbo, the cost of the improvement of Lamitan port project is estimated at P15,808,302.39 million and the concreting of Parangbasak and the cost of Bolehebong road project is estimated at P9.791,229.07 million.

The said projects are also in line with the socio-economic-political agenda of the national government.

The officials believe the projects will bring progress to Lamitan benefits as far as socio-economic development, revenue, and all maritime interests and easy accessibility, reduce travel time, as well as peace and order stability, respectively, are concerned.

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A MUST WATCH VIDEOS: MNLF-MILF CONFLICT PART 1 & 2

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Police show CCTV video on airport bombing in Zamboanga

Local authorities here on Sunday showed to media a video taken from CCTV security camera footage that justifies the linkages of suspected bombers in Thursday's bombing near the arrival area of Zamboanga City International Airport.

In a press conference at City Hall, the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) chaired by Mayor Celso Lobregat presented pieces of evidence captured from the CCTV video footage establishing the linkages of Reynaldo Apilado and Hatimil Yacub Harun.

The authorities also showed a CCTV video footage of some scenes, including Apilado and Harun who were waiting near the arrival area when the explosion occurred.

Based on the CCTV footage, Saipudin together with a companion checked at Imperial Hotel on July 27, 20010 and the next day Apilado, Harun and a companion took over the said hotel room and continued until July 31, 2010.

The video footage showed that on August 1, 2010, the three persons transferred to a bigger room at the same floor in room 203 and until August 5, 2010, the day of the bomb explosion at the city airport.

It furthered that at about 3:15 in the afternoon on August 5, Apilado together with Harun and other companions left the Imperial Hotel. It showed Apilado returning a hotel key in the counter.

It also showed the suspects suspect were in the stairway going down and walking away outside the hotel.

Police Regional Office 9 (PRO 9) chief Edwin Corvera told reporters that in their investigation those finger prints taken from the hotel and the identification cards match with the finger prints of Apilado.

Meanwhile, Directorate for Integrated Police Operations Western Mindanao (DIPO WesMin) director Angelo Sunglao said they are looking into on whether a backbag was given to Apilado at the airport.

"Because based on the CCTV footage, when they (suspects) checked out from the hotel apparently they had no carried a bag...so we are investigating who carried the bag that was used," he added.

Sunglao said they are open to all the possible motives, one of which is the political, but said they are not discounting other motives.

But he said that, "with the development linking the pieces of evidence is leading to that point (more or less political)."

Earlier, during questioning by Philippine National Police chief Jesus Versoza with Governor Sakur Tan of Sulu, the latter told authorities that the the bomb attack was intended for him.

Tan also told General Versoza that Cocoy Tulawie, the main suspect in the first bomb attack on the Sulu governor a year ago in Patikul, was behind the Zamboanga City airport bombing last Thursday.

Tulawie, a former councilor of Jolo, Sulu and a leader of Bangsamoro Consortium of Civil Society, is facing warrant of arrest together with three companions for the first bomb attack on Governor Tan's convoy in Sulu.

He remains at large as of this report and he is now the subject of manhunt operation by police and military authorities.

Meanwhile, Mayor Lobregat clarified certain publication about the identification of the mastermind of the bombing who attempted on the life of Governor Tan of Sulu.

He said the authorities are looking at past attempts on the life of Governor Tan, wherein there were several suspects who have warrants of arrest.

"So the instructions of the PNP chief (General Jesus Versoza) is to make sure that there is a manhunt for those that have warrants of arrest," the mayor explained.

He said: "It does not necessarily mean that those suspects are the masterminds that cannot be more or less made very definite at this point in time."

Authorities identify suspected bomber at Zamboanga City international airport

Chief Supt. Edwin Corvera, director of the Police Region Office 9 (PRO 9), shows to journalists the photo of Reynaldo Apilado, whom the authorities suspected as the bomb carrier who blew himself Thursday night at the Zamboanga City International Airport. Also in photo are PNP chief Jesus Verzosa (left) and Mayor Celso Lobregat.

Police and military authorities announced the identity of a suspected suicide bomber who blew himself up targeting a governor of Sulu on the Zamboanga City international airport on Thursday night.

Security sources said that authorities are still conducting thorough investigation of the alleged suicide bombing which if confirmed could be the first of such attack carried out by a Filipino.

A police investigator described the video footage from a surveillance camera at the airport saying that they have seen the suspect (Reynaldo Apilado) who was standing infront of the arrival area and stayed there for almost four minutes."

"Then the passengers started to come out from the airplane. Perhaps, 3 to 4 passengers until such time the escort (vehicle) of Governor Sakur Tan passed when the explosion occured...the suspect has a bagpack at his back," he said.

The suspected bomber was identified as Reynaldo Apilado of Barangay Maasin, Zamboanga City. He was in his 30s and had been living at a local housing project for the past 3-4 years.

Authorities are investigating reports that Reynaldo Apilado came from Siocon town in Zamboanga del Norte and had stayed in Cotabato City sometime ago.

Zamboanga City Mayor Celso Lobregat said that a surveillance footage at the airport showed that the alleged bomber made no move to detonate the bomb that he was carrying in his backpack.

"So I would be very very hesitant to use the word suicide bomber because first of all there is no evidence that Reynaldo Apilado was the one who triggered the bomb. There was no triggering mechanism that was found within the vicinity."

Lobregat added that it is very possible that there was a remote triggering device that was triggered by somebody else. Aside from that, he said there is another angle that Reynaldo Apilado did not know that what he was carrying.

"Perhaps, somebody just asked him to carry the bag and to meet somebody in the airport. So all these angles are being looked into and we really should refrain from using the word suicide bomber because it is not verified," he said.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Jesus Versoza, in a press conference in Zamboanga City, told reporters that the motive of the bombing incident appears to be a "politically motivated terrorist act."

"That is a possible attack on Governor Tan by a person through the used of bomb," Versoza said.

He said they are now looking also on previous incidents that might have some relations with the attack on Governor Tan before because there was an attempt on his life before also through the used of bomb.

"Our investigators are assessing and interfacing the other terror attacks which are polically motivated. In the initial finding, the bomb carrier itself that was a victim in the bomb blast," the PNP chief said.

Bombing at Zamboanga City airport

Two persons including a suspected bomber were killed and twenty two others wounded in a bombing Thursday evening outside the arrival area of Zamboanga International Airport in Mindanao.

2 people killed, 22 others injured

Suspected bomber blew himself

At least five people including a suspected bomber were killed and 22 others injured when a bomb exploded outside the arrival area of the Zamboanga City International Airport on Thursday evening.

Mayor Celso Lobregat told local reporters the explosion occurred at about 6:15 p.m. outside the city airport's arrival area.

"It appears that the person holding the explosive device (was the bomber). We can not determine yet what the explosive device used in the attack. The body (suspected bomber) was mangled," he said.

The mayor said one of those injured victims was Sulu Governor Sakur Tan who was among the passengers of a Philippine Airlines flight from Manila that landed in Zamboanga at 6:10 p.m.

"I was able to talk with Governor Sakur Tan of Sulu...he went inside the arrival area. He was there with his son (Mayor Tan)...the governor had a slight wound because he was outside the airport when the incident happened," he said.

Governor Tan was one of the passengers going out of the airport when the bomb exploded.

When asked if the bomb was intended for the Sulu governor, Lobregat replied. "He (Governor Tan) told me that the bomb was intended for him. He thinks so."

According to Mayor Lobregat, the Sulu governor told him that the bomb exploded a few feet away from him. "In fact, he showed me his shirt was full of blood stains and the t-shirt of his son Mayor Tan was also full of blood stain."

Tan's spokesman, Sonny Abing, said the governor suffered a scratch at the right abdomen, but the injury did not require Tan to be confined at the hospital. As of posting, Tan was in his residence in Zamboanga City near the airport.

Mayor Lobregat considered the bomb attack as a terrorist act, saying that "definitely, this is a terrorist act. How else can you describe it? This is an act of terrorist."

Also asked whether the attack was a suicide attack, he said the person who carried the bomb could have exploded prematurely or it could have been that the person did not know that he was carrying the bomb and somebody had a triggering device.

The mayor confirmed that one of the injured blast victims is a British national. "He is in the operating room. He is 69 years old I think he was just waiting a passenger."

Lobregat also said that US ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas canceled his trip to Zamboanga City due to the bombing incident at the airport.

"I was just informed by General Dolorfino that the trip or visit of the US ambassador has been cancelled definitely because of the incident."

Thomas was scheduled to fly to Zamboanga on Friday to inspect local projects funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The US military has had about 500 soldiers stationed in the southern Philippines since early 2002 to train local troops in how to combat Al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf militants.

Mayor Lobregat convened the city's Crisis Management Committee to assess the situation. He said the measures they adopted to address the incident include a much higher police and military visibility.

"We have also raised the level of alertness. We have asked augmentation of troops both from the regional police and the military’s WesMinCom. The police and military top officials here assured that they will put all the possible resources that they can put to secure the City of Zamboanga," Lobregat said.

Escalation of Sultan Kudarat hostilities

between 2 MNL-MILF faction leaders feared

Abandoned houses of the civilians in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat that are affected by the armed conflict of two Moro commanders Randy Karon of MNLF vs. Jing Caludtiag of MILF.

An armed conflict between a top commander of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) against a commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat province is feared to escalate as hostilities between the two camps continue to claim lives.

Muslim leaders of Mindanao have tried but failed to pacify Datu Randy Karon, a top MNLF commander, and Jing Caludtiag, commander of the 104th Base Command of the MILF in the town of Lebak.Karon is a close ally and one of the trusted men of Chairman Nur Misuari during the MNLF-led armed struggle during the 70s and 80s in Central Mindanao.

When Misuari became the regional governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 1996 and until 2001, Karon was appointed as the regional secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

After the failure of the traditional leaders, local government units and non governmental organizations to bring peace to Lebak, the International Monitoring Team (IMT) overseeing the cessation of hostilities between the government and the MILF has stepped in with the hope of ending the armed feud between two commanders.

Battle of supremacy

The said feud started last year and has already claimed several lives and displaced thousands of civilians who fled their homes to safer grounds in the towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat and Lebak in Sultan Kudarat, and its adjacent towns in Maguindanao.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the ARMM headed by Acting Secretary Pombaen Karon-Kadir reported that the displaced families have around 17,000 individuals affected by the MNLF-MILF commanders’ armed conflict.

They are temporarily housed in nearby villages and village halls while some of the evacuees are taking refuge at the houses of their relatives in neigh-boring villages.

A source of The Manila Times noted that the root cause of the armed conflict between the two Moro commanders was a reported “battle of supremacy” on who should control the strategic patches of lands along the coasts connecting the towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat and Lebak in Sultan Kudarat.

The two commanders, with their own armed followers in tow, engaged in gun battles several times last year, causing the dislocation of thousands of villagers who rely mainly on fishing and farming for their livelihood.

Protecting civiliansKaron told the members of the media that visited his lair that the MNLF forces loyal to him were just out to defend the civilian populace of Lebak who were reportedly harassed by the men of Caludtiag.

Karon claimed that the town of Lebak became a peaceful coastal municipality after the MNLF and the government signed the Final Peace Agreement in 1996.

He said the MNLF forces in the area including him have already reverted to their civilian lives after the signing of the peace accord that was brokered also by the Organization of the Islamic Conference.

According to Karon, after the failed signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain between the government and the MILF peace panel, some MILF commanders attacked certain towns in Mindanao to get the attention of both the local and international communities. Karon accused the MILF forces headed by Caludtiag, which according to him attacked also civilian installations.

“They attacked the power plant situated in Calamansig, Sultan Kudarat that included a power barge situated in the commercial port of Calamansig that eventually brought havocs into our civilian populace,” Karon complained.

Karon said because of the atrocity of the MILF forces under the control of Caludtiag, he was forced to recall his former MNLF combatants and regroup themselves into one fighting army.“I came to the point of recalling my old troops and regroup ourselves to counter act the terrorist activities of Caludtiag and his men,” Karon said.

Not sanctioned

Meanwhile, the MILF admitted that Caludtiag is one of their commanders, but claimed that he was not taking orders from the MILF central command. The group maintained that Caludtiag’s acts were not sanctioned by the MILF.

Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF chairman for political affairs, in a statement, said that while the trouble in Sultan Kudarat province involves an MILF commander, the MILF as an organization is not involved at all.

Jaafar also said that the armed conflict between the two commanders is an isolated case and should not affect the resumption of the peace talks between the government and the MILF scheduled after the observance of the Muslims’ holy month of Ramadan.

“Caludtiag’s involvement in the fighting is not sanctioned by the MILF. So it does not affect the peace talks between the GRP [Government of the Republic of the Philippines] and the MILF. This has nothing to do with it,” Jaafar said.

Appeal for peaceJaafar had sent a message addressed to both Karon and Ca-ludtiag, whom he advised to amicably settle their differences in order to bring back normalcy and peace and order in the towns of Lebak and nearby towns in Sultan Kudarat.

“I believe brother Karon, being a Muslim, and brother Caludtiag, being a Muslim too, must stop fighting because this is un-Islamic. You know, when one Muslim fights against his brother and the intention is to kill him, this is forbidden in Islam. Our hope is that both of them will agree to the proposed settlement initiated now by the IMT because many of their Muslim relatives and brothers are affected by their fighting,” Jaafar further said.

MNLF commander airs sentiment
over Misuari's unilateral decision

Datu Randy Karon (right), leader of Moro National Liberation Front’s Bangsamoro warriors in Central Mindanao, shows one of his high-powered firearms at Camp Watamama Silongan-II in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. Joseph Zosobrado, Net 25

A top moro leader based in Central Mindanao said Prof. Nur Misuari cannot make a unilateral decision for the destiny of the Bangsamoro people.

Datu Randy Karon, leader the Moro National Liberation Front forces in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, made the pronouncement early this week.

Commander Karon has been in conflict with Jing Caludtiag, also a commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front since March 2009.

The conflict has already claimed several lives on both sides and displaced thousands of people in the towns in Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao.

"He (Misuari) should involve us. After all, we are freedom fighters. We fought for this cause, we fought for the aspiration of the Bangsamoro people," he said.

Now we have the peace agreement with the government and then he (Misuari) will just decide for the destiny of the Bangsamoro people alone, no! That can't happen, we will always oppose him but we still recognize him as the chairman of the MNLF," he pointed.

Karon, however, said Nur Misuari is still considered as their leader in the organization, stressing that they do not disown the MNLF founder.

"In fact, we have that high respect on him, but you know in an organization like us, you can't evade some sort of mental conflict, belief. I think that's the only thing we differ now."

He further said that there is no personal conflict between him and the old man, as it is only a matter of technical problem.

Dismissing a report that he already split from the MNLF and he formed his own group, Commander Karon sai he is still an MNLF and that MNLF is Nur Misuari.

"You can't prevent some circumstances that the group has also this internal problem but this is a problem within our organization. We will settle this once and for all but you know because of my problem can't see and talk to the old man (Misuari)," he added.

According to him, there are moments that they have opposed Misuari's idea because he is not a perfect man.

In fact, Karon said they have been doing some initiative and effort with the group to reconcile all their differences between them.

"We have already started moving but you know, this is hampered by this problem (conflict with Caludtiag). So I have to stay with my boys here. So how would I work with my MNLF brothers and sisters in other provinces?"

Karon explained they have initiated move under that unified MNLF hard cores, but not to abandon Nur Misuari or destroy the MNLF and make another organization.

"No...our intention here is to unite the MNLF to pursue the peace agreement that we have signed with the Philippine government. That is our final and ultimate goal for reorganizing the MNLF again."

When asked if still take orders from Chairman Misuari, Karon replied: "At the moment I don't. As I have said this is not a company. This is an organization. This is not own by Nur Misuari. we will see what kind of orders he is going to give us. If it is advantageous or favorable for the Bangsamoro people, we still abide him. But if his order is going to be erroneous to the organization, so why abide it?" -- HG

Solution to conflict between 2 MNLF-MILF

faction commanders in SK remains elusive

A definitive solution to the armed conflict between Datu Randy Karon, leader of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) forces in Lebak town in Sultan Kudarat, and Jing Caludtiag, also commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF’s) 104th Base Command, remains elusive.

Based on media reports, despite attempts from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) traditional leaders and local government officials and the latest from the International Monitoring Team (IMT) to resolve the conflicthe two armed feuding groups continue their dispute in the area.

The armed conflict which started sometime in March of 2009 has already claimed several lives and displaced thousands of civilians who fled their homes to safer grounds in the towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat (DBS), Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, and its adjacent towns in Maguindanao.

The DWSD-ARMM regional office reported that the displaced families in the Karon-Caludtiag conflict are temporarily housed in nearby villages and village halls while some of the evacuees are taking refuge at the houses of their relatives' houses in neighboring villages.

A local official in Lebak told this reporter that eight barangays, including Sadam, Miti, Senapak, Laguitan in Datu Blah Sinsuat in Maguindanao as well as Tran, Calamansig, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat have been affected with an estimated of 15,000 to 17,000 individuals.

The official said the sector most affected by the conflict is the business and the education sector. “I refer to the business community of Lebak and Calamansig. This situation has greatly affected the people in the community, putting them in high alert, and fear that this trouble will escalate to its fullest. Yes (on education)…you just imagine how many people have been displaced from the various barangays from DBS (Datu Blah Sinsuat) and Lebak.”

Karon, who was former regional secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) when MNLF chairman Nur Misuari was ARMM governor from 1996 to 2001, is reportedly battling against Caludtiag over control of strategic patches of lands along the coasts connecting the towns of Datu Blah and Lebak in Sultan Kudarat.

The two contending factions fought several times last year, causing the dislocation of thousands of villagers that rely mainly on fishing and farming of short-term crops such as corn, rice and bananas, as their source of income.

In an interview at his lair called "Camp Watamama-II" in Lebak, Commander Karon said that the problem started after the collapse of peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

"This group, the MILF, it's very clear. It's not just a suspect. This Caludtiag family," the MNLF commander said, blaming the MILF faction command as the one who started the conflict.

But MILF vice chairman for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar refuted this, saying that the conflict is a misunderstanding between two relatives because Karon and Caludtiag are relatives.

"I can’t give details the misunderstanding between the two of them because it’s a long story but the fight between them is not an organizational conflict between the MILF and the MNLF. It is a family. But sometime it is misunderstood. Sometime people are saying that the fight is between the MILF and the MNLF but that is not correct."

Jaafar said the MILF is not siding Caludtiag, although he is an MILF commander. Admitting that Caludtiag is being reinforced by hi MILF relatives, but the decision of his relatives who are identified with the MILF in helping him is family matter and is not sanction by the MILF as an organization.

Meanwhile, evacuees who have been affected by the armed conflict between Commander Karon and Commander Caludtiag in the coastal sitio of Lebak are longing for an end to the feud in their village.

An evacuee identified as a certain Basio, 60, who has four children said that his house and corn farm were totally damaged when the armed fighting between the two feuding groups erupted in their barangay recently.

"The conflict really affected our lives. We don't have livelihood here and we are afraid to return to our home," he said.

A woman evacuee, who is suffering from tuberculosis, said they have practically no medicine and the conditions in the area where they temporarily stay for months now are completely unsanitary.

"We don't have any medical assistance here and our home and farm were destroyed. We hope they will already settle their differences and stop the fighting," the woman added

Women, children and the elderly in Lebak, some with weeping sores on their feet, make up the majority of the refugees. Many were asking for fishing net from concerned local government agencies for their livelihood.

"When this conflict is over, I must return to my house because it is there where we born," said a teenager whose one leg was hit by a crossfire during the armed fighting between the men of the two moro feuding groups.

The coastal village of Lebak and its adjacent coastal areas are left with destroyed shanty houses and just a tiny fraction of fishermen as residents move away from the area. Now, only armed men remain in the camp of MNLF or peace zone with a Philippine flag hoisted near seashore.

Asked if they still want to settle the conflict, Commander Karon said:: "Of course, I want to have our people, our civilian, our community healthy and stable because after all that's the reason why we agreed to the peace offered by the government."

Karon said the truth of the matter he is just waiting the decision of the MILF for this problem and that he already yielded the problem to the MNLF chairman.

"I told him (MNLF chairman) to decide for us. While it's true that there is an offer of the MNLF to settle this problem but I see some biases on their decision because they only talked the local issue between our family and and then forget that big issue that involves many people who died here," he stressed.

He asked: "How would you agree with that kind of proposition disregarding that big issues surrounding this problem?"

The MNLF commander explained that the problem could had not been reached this extent had it not the support of the MILF to the other side that instead of making the effort to resolve the problem, they send more their forces to support this group (Caludtiag).

"So that's the cause why there is no resolution that had taken place. After all those initiatives from people and different people from all walks of life. Now comes the intervention of the International Monitoring Team (IMT). I don't know what's going to happen next."

"Up to now I am still awaiting for whatever peaceful resolution to the problem because you know it's my family that suffers the consequence of this problem. It's my relatives and my people from this place. It's not the people coming from the different areas. It's not them that suffer the consequence of this trouble. It's our relatives, our family and friends and all the people in this place."

Also asked to comment on the unity covenant between by the MNLF and the MILF signed by Prof. Nur Misuari and MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim, he said they are not privy to it and they don't recognize that agreement.

This agreement could probably be a personal agreement between them (Misuari and Murad), otherwise they should have consulted us before signing with any party...there was no consultation ever made whatsoever between us and Nur Misuari.

"This is people's organization that needs proper consultation on matters related to the shaping of the destiny of the organization and the people itself."

Speaking in behalf of Commander Caludtiag, MILF vice chairman Jaafar said the International Monitoring Team (IMT) together with the ceasefire committees of MILF and GRP CCCH is right now handling the problem.

"The purpose is to reconcile the two groups. Until now, they are still in the process of trying to resolve the problem, the issue. I don’t know whether they will succeed or they will fail, but we can only pray that the effort of the IMT will succeed because as of now, there are civilians in the area in Tran and neighboring areas directly affected by the troubles. They were forced to abandon their homes for fear that they might be caught in the crossfire, and so decided to stay in safer areas temporarily."

Jaafar said that what is happening between Karon and Caludtiag is not good because he believe the Bangsamoro people must remain united in facing their problems. Jaafar also believes that at this point in time there is no room for disunity and infighting between and among Bangsamoro.

"I believe that Bangsamoro leaders at this point in time must be able to arise above the 'box' (MNLF box, tribal box, MILF box)…what I mean here the Bangsamoro leaders must think as one people as Bangsamoro people, not as tribal leaders, not as Tausug leaders, not as Maguindanao leaders, Maranao leaders but as one…I think there is no time in a Bangsamoro people such as now that the Bangsamoro must act as one people, united," he concluded. HG

Business community shocked at

latest kidnapping in Zamboanga

Charlie Reith, 72, the latest kidnap victim in Zamboanga City.

Vice moralty candidate Crisanto "Monsi" Dela Cruz said the City's business community was "shocked" by the abduction of a Swiss-born businessman in the city on Easter Sunday.

"The business community here is shocked by the latest kidnapping of a good friend and a neighbor," said Dela Cruz, the former presidential assistant for Western Mindanao.

On Sunday, undetermined gunmen sneaked onto the resthouse of victim Charlie Reith, 72, at Sitio Parkampo, Barangay Patalon, west of Zamboanga City at around 6 p.m.

Reith was married to a Filipina and had been living in the Philippines for decades. He owns a sand and gravel business in the same village, but previously managed a large piece of land.

A caretaker told local reporters Reith was drinking liquor with a German friend when the abductors arrived. He said the German was left behind after he passed out.

The military said Reith was forced to board a pumpboat, which sped off with the gunmen to a still unknown direction.

The caretaker said the kidnappers also took the victims' cell phones, wallet, car keys and jewelry.

It was learned from media reports that the gunmen who abducted Reith were seen speeding away in the direction of Basilan island, a well-known Abu Sayyaf and kidnappers lair.

Monsi Dela Cruz said they are saddened by the kidnapping of Reith, who is a well-respected member of the local community in Zamboanga City.

"We're are praying for the fast and safe recovery of Mr. Reith," the former priest and government official said.

"I also ask the people of Zamboanga to stay calm but vigilant amid all the incidents taking place in the city," Dela Cruz added.

According to Dela Cruz, City Hall should properly use the intelligence fund to address and put a stop to the kidnapping menace.

He said the kidnapping problem stands as a critical stumbling block to Zamboanga City's and growth and progress.

"If there is more kidnapping then we will continue to lose business confidence from local and foreign investors," Dela Cruz further said.

"It is time for the present administration to set aside politics and solve this kidnapping problem once and for all," he ended. HG

Maguindanao under martial law

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo handed over power to military authorities in Maguindanao on Saturday in a bid to restore order and to speed up the arrest without warrants of other members of the Ampatuan family and their private armies who have been linked to the November 23 massacre.

In a media report, the President through Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita announced Proclamation No. 1959 proclaiming a state of martial law and suspending the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Maguindanao province, except for certain areas.

“Based on Proclamation 1959, we are here to formally take over the provincial capitol. By this time, all municipal halls have been secured by the armed forces and police forces in order to ensure that these facilities will be secure,” Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command, announced yesterday at a press conference hours after the martial law declaration.

The martial law will continue indefinitely. The declaration came after a large cache of firearms and ammunition was unearthed near the mansions of the Ampatuans in Shariff Aguak, the capital town of Maguindanao.

Reports said soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade found different types of high-powered firearms and ammunition buried in the ground in a vacant lot in Poblacion 3 in the said town.

At least 4,000 troops have been deployed to Maguindanao for a purpose of implementing President Arroyo’s proclamation of martial law in the province and to conduct warrantless searches on residences of politicians, mostly members of the powerful political clan of the Ampatuans.

While martial law is in effect, Lieutenant General Ferrer will take over from Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr., one of the suspects in the massacre, as the provincial military governor.
Security forces have arrested members of the Ampatuan clan: Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Jr., Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan, ARMM Vice-Governor Akmad Ampatuan Sr., Shariff Aguak Mayor Anwar Ampatuan, and Cahoner Amatuan, a Sangguniang Bayan member of Shariff Aguak.

The other local officials arrested were Paisal Sulaik, a Sangguniang Member of Shariff Aguak; Keise Usman, regional secretary of agriculture and of the ARMM; and Kabuntalan Emblawa, regional environment secretary of the ARMM.

A total of six Ampatuans have been arrested, including another son of the Maguindanao governor, Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr., who has been charged with 25 counts of murder for the massacre.

Ampatuan Jr. is currently detained at the National Bureau of Investigation headquarters in Manila. Ampatuan Sr. and Zaldy have been brought to Davao City and General City, respectively.

Two other Ampatuans were detained at the Maguindanao police provincial office, as of posting time.

The November 23 Maguindanao massacre, where 57 innocent civilians were killed, drew both local and international condemnation. It was allegedly led by the governor’s son.

There was immediate condemnation about the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao from a moro group called Suara Bangsamoro.

In a text message, Amirah Lidasan, the group’s leader, said: “Salam, kinokondena ng suara bangsamoro ang martial law sa maguindanao (greetings of peace, the suara bangsamoro condemns the martial in Maguindanao).”

Lidasan said the martial law might be used against the people in Maguindanao. She added that “we fear this will set a trend for other province and be used as a pretext for a no election scenario.”

However, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) condemned the Maguindanao massacre and blamed the Ampatuans for the carnage. The rebel group said many people in the province are rejoicing over the downfall of Ampatuan.

Earlier, Mayor Ampatuan alleged that MILF commander Umbra Kato staged the deadly massacre and was behind the deaths of 57 people including mediamen. The MILF denied the allegations. (Hader Glang)

Kidnapped Irish missionary priest freed

Freed Irish missionary priest. Fr. Michael Sinnott reveals his ordeal before local journalists at the Philippine Air Force's (PAF's) Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) in Zamboanga City. HADER GLANG

A kidnapped Catholic Irish priest has been freed unharmed early Thursday morning in Zamboanga City after one month in captivity, officials said.

Father Michael Sinnott was turned over to government peace panel chairman Rafael Seguis by a unit of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front unit, which was ordered earlier by its leadership top help in the release effort, at around 4:22 a.m. at the costal village of Sangali, this city.

“I am very happy to inform everyone that after 30 days of captivity, Fr. Michael Sinnott has finally been released. He is a bit exhausted at this time, but otherwise, he is in good physical and emotional health. More importantly, he is with us once more,” Seguis said in statement issued to the local reporters by Major General Benjamin Dolorfino, chief of the military’s Western Mindanao Command, at Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB).

Personally, Seguis added: “Since Fr. Sinnot’s abduction…,ensuring his safe release has been our overriding concern. We have accomplished this goal. Personally, I am very relieved to see Fr. Mick early this morning when I received him from our joint CCCH.”

Seguis commended GRP-CCCH chairman Major General Reynaldo Sealana, his counterpart, MILF-CCCH chairman Toks Ebrahim, the CCCH secretariat heads Major Jun Sol and Rashid Ladiasan, and the other members of their team.

“I also wish to thank and congratulate our counterparts in the MILF peace panel, especially it chairman Mohagher Iqbal, for working and cooperating with us through the peace process mechanism,” he said.

Iqbal, in a phone interview, said they are very happy with the recovery of Father Sinnott, but admitted it was a delicate operation. We exerted great pressure to the group holding the priest and so was the family and relatives of those who held Father Sinnott.”

Iqbal said no ransom was paid for the kidnapped Irish priest’s release, invoking that kidnapping is forbidden in Islam and Father Sinnott’s recovery did not involve any money.

The kidnappers originally demanded $2 million for the release of the missionary, but authorities said it would not pay ransom.

Sinnott was taken by six gunmen on October 11 from his Columban missionary house in Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur province and brought to Lanao province.

Top military officials from the WesMinCom headquarters said Dolorfino said the priest is frail, but is okay. “He is okay and was examined by our doctors,” Dolorfino said.

Dolorfino said the priest told him that it took them 9 hours by boat to Zamboanga City. “Before Father Sinnott was freed, the kidnappers brought him to a mountain hideout and later transferred him at a mangrove area, probably in Lanao, for 10 days until he was released."

He said the MILF played a vital role in the recovery of the priest. “This will have a big impact in the peace talks between the MILF and the government. This is confidence-building measure and we are happy that Father Sinnott is finally a free man,” Dolorfino said.

Revealing his ordeal to the local reporters in Zamboanga City before leaving to Manila, Father Sinnott said he was treated well by his captors, who he identified as members of a “lost command” headed by Kikay.

“They said they were the Lost Command and the one in-charge is Kikay. The first group in the swamp they were 7 of them and the second group – only two had guarded me,” Sinnott said.

“They treated me very well, conditions were very primitive and we were living in the open under vinyl and they did their best to make things as easy as possible for me those who were guarding me. On the first 10 days, we were in the swampy area. It was a small area and you cannot walk – it’s difficult. Just slept on the hammock, there was nothing else. When we got to the forest, the one in-charge caused a pathway of about 10 meters and I walked up and down there. The first 10 days there was no place for walking around,” he said.

The Irish priest said he was supposed to be freed last week, but bad weather prevented his captors from releasing him.

“On the 4th of November, we were supposed to be released and after about 20 minutes hiking we were told that there is a typhoon on the way and it’s too high for the boat so we came back. Then last Monday, they said they were just waiting for the signal, so Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday the signal came so we came out. The first time we changed from the swampy area to forest area, they told me that I was going out free so when I got there so I said now I will not leave until I am free, but they were actually going out, but even last night I was not sure,” he further said.

The priest continued that his captors told him that he was kidnapped because of ransom. “They said they want to get money, to get ransom and I do not know if they got money.”

Sinnott said he wanted to return to his missionary home in Pagadian City, but would discuss this with the Missionary Society of St. Columban. He also thanked those who helped secure his freedom.

“I hope I will be going back to Pagadian, I do not know, but that has to be discussed with many people besides my self,” he said. “I would like to thank everybody who helped to get me free and every one of my friends that I know prayed for me while I was in captivity.” (HG)

Salapuddin: Senator Pimentel’s call to tap Pacquiao as peace negotiator “a big joke”

Former House deputy speaker for Mindanao Gerry Salapuddin called Senator Aquilino Pimentel’s proposal to tap Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao as peace negotiator amidst the renewed conflict in Basilan “a big joke” that will only make an already difficult situation worse.

In a press statement, Salapuddin said the proposal of Senator Pimentel to send Filipino boxing icon Pacquiao being designated Ambassador of Peace and Unity by Malacañang must have been proposed in jest, not in all seriousness, neither was it a well thought of recommendation.

“This proposal by Senator Pimentel is really quite a joke. While it is true that every boxing match of Pacquiao, even enemies sit together to cheer for him,” said Salapuddin, also former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebel commander based in Basilan turned politician.

Salapuddin defended the administration of President Gloria Arroyo, saying that she must not be faulted for it because the proposal was not coming from the Palace but from Senate Minorty Leader, who is an opposition senator.

“Personally, I don’t encourage sending Pacquiao to negotiate for a complex and intricate issue as the Moro issue. Most of all, I also fear for his safety. He is not just an international boxing icon, but also a Filipino pride who proudly raised the Philippine banner in the boxing ring.”

Salapuddin continued that most of all, Pacquiao is undeniably a billionaire now, and God forbids if he might be held hostage for ransom by unscrupulous armed elements.

He recalled that Vice President Noli de Castro and Actor Robin Padilla together with dozens of journalists were held hostage by Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. Likewise, he said even Major General Benjamin Dolorfino and top OPAPP officials were once held against their will in Sulu.

“Recently, the last of the International Committee of the Red Cross volunteer was held hostage and only released recently even if he belongs to a non-government charitable and humanitarian organization. There are many other unfortunate stories that we can learn from the past.”

Earlier, Senator Rodolfo Biazon questioned the competence of the boxing champ to handle an intricate and complex political subject as the Moro issue while Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago called the proposal as an act of desperation.

Even instant celebrity, mother of the Filipino boxing icon is simply not in favor of sending his son as a negotiator, Salapuddin said adding that just like the most prayerful Filipino President Corazon Aquino, Aling Dionisia Pacquiao instead calls on the nation to pray for guidance.

“As a Mindanaoan, I firmly believe that the key to the Mindanao problem is for the GRP and MILF and MNLF Panels to go to the negotiating table equipped with firmness and sincerity, prepared with sensible proposals and options, galvanized by the sole objective of formulating and achieving a comprehensive political settlement of the Moro issue.”

Since the MNLF and the MILF are both fighting for the same people and the same homeland, and since the present ARMM is the product of the GRP-MNLF FPA, it is only right that the MNLF must be consulted and made to participate in the peace process, according to Salapuddin.

Affected by recent violence and bloodshed in Basilan, where several people including soldiers and rebels were killed, the former lawmaker said that it is unfortunate that one after another incidents of bloody encounters in his province have always been the banner story these days.

“The right thing to do is for both the GRP and the United Moro Front, through their respective negotiating panels to notify the Orgnaization of Islamic Conference thru its Secretary-General to facilitate the resumption of the stalled talks,” Salapuddin suggested.

Since the Moro issue was a result of wrong colonial approach, Salapuddin said that it is likewise suggested that the United State and United Kingdom, be invited as co-facilitators and co-guarantors of the peace talks.”

He ended with the statement: “As we have experienced in the GRP-MNLF FPA, the economic component of the political settlement is indispensable. We need the political muscle and economic resources of the US and UK in achieving a comprehensive peace settlement of the Moro issue.”

Zamboanga leaders enjoin people to pray for eternal repose of President Cory Aquino soul Hundreds of Zamboangueños join the memorial mass for the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino at Fort Pilar shrine. Photos By HADER GLANG

Local leaders of the City of Zamboanga on Saturday enjoined the people to pray for the eternal repose of soul of former President Corazon Aquino.

Mrs Aquino, the ‘People Power’ icon, passed away at 3:18 a.m. Saturday, August 1, 2009, after battling colon cancer for more than a year. She was 76.

Congressman Erbie Fabian immediately extended his deepest condolonces to the Aquino family after knowing the news of the death of the first woman president in the country.

Fabian described Cory Aquino as a true example of a humble servant leader and an icon of democracy, whom “we owe it to her. Thank you President Cory.”

Presidential Assistant for Western Mindanao Monsi Dela Cruz said the nation has lost a great leader who had restored democracy and showed the true essence of servant leadership and humility.

“May I take this oppoturnity to condole with the grave family of President Aquino,” the former Catholic priest turned government official said.

“I am certain that the Almighty God would give President Aquino eternal reward for her goodness, compassion and love for the Filipino people.”

For his part, Vice Mayor Mannix Dalipe also described former President Aquino’s death “as a great loss to the Filipino people.”

“Her care and concern for the people made her a beloved leader,” said Dalipe. “Her tireless work for democracy is one of her greatest legacies. We will miss her.”

Fabian, Monsi and Dalipe did not give further statement, but they reiterated to Zamboangueños to pray for the eternal repose of soul of the late President Aquino.

The Philippine flag inside the Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) headquarters was raised at half-mast as a sign of respect to the country’s former president.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino, WesMinCom chief, said that in accordance with military tradition, full honors will be accorded to the late former President for 30 days in all military camps.

Dolorfino condoled with the beraved family of Aquino as he described the late ex-President Corazon Aquino as one of the nation’s icon of democracy.

“We wish her soul peace and her family peace of mind. President Cory will always be remembered as an integral part of the nation’s rich history,” he said.

Cannon shots were fired yesterday morning in the city. It will also be fired every thirty minutes until sundown at the Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB).

A message from US Ambassador Kristie Kenney emailed to Zamboanga Today: “On behalf of the US Embassy, I would like to express our most heartfelt condolences to the Aquino family and to the people of the Philippines on the death of former President Corazon Aquino.”

Kenney said that after Cory’s husband was assassinated in 1983, President Aquino’s determined leadership of the peaceful ‘People Power’ revolution restored democracy to the Philippines.

“Her courage in the face of tragedy and the peaceful restoration of democracy made her an icon for freedom-loving people everywhere. President Aquino’s example and memory will inspire generations to come.”

For the past twenty years, President Cory worked closely with the U.S. Embassy in helping to select the annual recipients of the Ninoy Aquino Fellowships given for public service and journalism. We will deeply miss her personal warmth and her tireless zeal on behalf of talented Filipinos emerging as leaders in those fields, according to Kenney.

Also a statement from US Secretary Hilary Clinton emailed to Zamboanga Today: “I extend my deepest condolences to the Aquino family and all the people of the Philippines on the death of former President Corazon Aquino.”

Clinton said Cory Aquino was beloved by her nation and admired by the world for her extraordinary courage after the assassination of her husband, and later, during her service as president.

“She helped bring democracy back to the Philippines after many years of authoritarian rule with a faith in her country and its people that never wavered. Like millions of people worldwide, Bill and I were inspired by her quiet strength and her unshakable commitment to justice and freedom. We join the American and Filipino people in honoring her life and memory.”

Aquino’s husband was assassinated in 1983 upon his return to Manila from his exile in the United States. His death catapulted Aquino to the presidency after deposing President Ferdinand Marcos.

She ruled from 1986 to 1992 and survived several coup attempts by rightist soldiers, who accused Aquino as a leftist supporter. She was named by Time Magazine as the 1986 Woman of the Year.

Kidnapped Italian Red Cross member freed in Sulu

Italian Eugenio Vagni, staff member of the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), waves to journalists as he embarks on a private plane for Manila at the Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) in Zamboanga City on Sunday, July 12, 2009. HADER GLANG

An Italian Red Cross official kidnapped in the southern Philippines’ island of Sulu was freed unharmed early Sunday dawn after nearly six months in captivity by the extremist Abu Sayyaf group, officials said.

Eugenio Vagni, 62, staff member of the International Committee of the Red Cross was kidnapped on January 15, 2009 with Swiss national Andres Notter and Filipina Mary Jean Lacaba while they working on a humanitarian mission in Patikul, Sulu.

His fellow ICRC staff members – Ms. Lacaba and Mr. Notter – regained their freedom on April 2 and 18, respectively.

Vagni regained his freedom in the early hours of July 12. He is tired after 179 days in captivity, but given the circumstances is doing remarkably well, said Jean-Daniel Tauxe, the head of the ICRC’s delegation in the Philippines.

"The ICRC is relieved and happy that Mr. Vagni will soon be back with his family and friends, who have been living a painful nightmare for almost six months and cannot wait to see him return home," Tauxe said.

"We would like to express our profound gratitude to all those who have worked so hard in recent months to secure the release of Mary Jean, Andreas and Eugenio," he added.

The Philippine-based ICRC head thanked Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, Vice Governor Nur-Ana Sahidulla, Joint Task Force Comet Commander, Major General Juancho Sabban, the national and local authorities, especially the military and the police for the tremendous efforts that contributed greatly to the resolution of the long hostage crisis.

According to Mr. Tauxe, the ICRC remains concerned about other hostages still being held captive in the southern Philippines.

He said the ICRC has been working in the Philippines since 1982. It provides protection and assistance for those most in need, particularly internally displaced people (IDPs) in Mindanao. In addition, it visits detainees to assess their conditions of detention.

As of early Sunday, Vagni was already in the custody of Major General Sabban and Vice Governor Sahidula.

A press release from the Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) headquarters disclosed that Vagni was recovered safely by Sahidulla and Sabban at about 12:30 a.m. Sunday in Barangay Pula Abu, Parang town.

Army Lieutenant Esteffani Cacho, WesMinCom spokesperson, said that Vagni appeared in good health condition but underwent a medical check up at the trauma hospital in Camp Bautista in Jolo town.

Vagni's release came after General Victor Ibrado's first visit as Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff to Sulu and Basilan, the two island provinces that have been beset by a rise in kidnapping and bombing incidents in the past few months.

Vagni was flown to Zamboanga City yesterday morning where he was met at the Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) by outgoing WesMinCom chief Lt. Gen. Nelson Allaga, who will replace by Lt. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino, the Philippine Marines commandant.

In an ambush interview at EAAB, Vagni who is thinner and clad with vest, jogging pants and black t-shirt told Zamboanga Southwall: “I feel very good. I Feel great.”

When asked how he feels now, he replied: “I feel free. Yes, a wonderful feeling.”

Earlier in Jolo, Vagni revealed to reporters that he lost 20 kilos and was also stricken with cholera. He thought he would die already but fortunately, medicines were brought for him.

The Italian also remarked that it was a miracle he was able to recover from cholera. He shared that he is very fit because he engages in various sports including taekwando.

He said that he wants to take a break from work so he can build up his muscle tone because of all the weight he lost. He added that his diet in captivity mostly consisted of rice and fish.

He was able to eat a hearty breakfast with eggs on Sunday, noting that it was one of the things he missed the most.

Meanwhile, the military said that the arrested two wives of Abu Sayyaf leader Albader Parad could be the key to the release of Vagni.

Parad’s two wives were arrested right after Tuesday's bombing in Jolo, where five people were killed and dozens more injured.

Sources from Jolo said that Parad’s two wives were exchanged for Vagni's freedom aside from a pledge for the implementation of development projects.

It was not known whether a ransom had been paid for the release of Vagni. Earlier reports said that Parad’s group had demanded $15 million ransom.

The ICRC had earlier issued an appeal for Vagni's release. It had also said it was not involved in negotiations or offering ransom for Vagni's freedom.

RP-US “Balikatan 2009” emphasizes humanitarian assistance

Balikatan, an annual Republic of the Philippines-U.S. bilateral military humanitarian assistance and training exercise, will take place in the Philippines April 16-30, 2009. Preliminary work on community infrastructure projects will begin in early April.

Balikatan 2009 will focus on training both of our armed forces to provide relief and assistance together, in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.

In addition, Philippine and U.S. military service members will conduct humanitarian assistance projects in Bicol, Central and Southern Luzon, and Zamboanga. They will offer free medical, dental, and veterinary care and construct and repair schools and other community infrastructure in communities most in need of assistance.

Members from all military services of our countries will conduct combined staff exercises and field training in Luzon to improve interoperability and contingency planning.

“These humanitarian assistance and training activities enable our soldiers to get to know each other, train together, and provide assistance in communities where the need is greatest,” said U.S. Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney.

“True to the meaning of the word balikatan, this exercise entails Philippine and U.S. forces shouldering the load together to help the greatest possible number of people in need.”

Balikatan 2009 will be the 25th annual event of its kind held under the auspices of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). -- PR

Spate of kidnappings, murders alarm Basilan ulamas

Some twenty-four Muslim ethnic religious leaders based in Basilan Province have voiced alarm over the spate of kidnappings and extra-judicial executions in the different parts of the island province.

The Basilan Ulama Council (BUC) condemned the wave of kidnappings and killings and urged all the local officials to immediately convene their respective peace and order council if only to faithfully address the current alarming situation in the province.

"We firmly believe that the immediate convening of the peace and order council would surely bring about proper venue for the ventilation of any burning issues that may be detrimental to the people and the province as a whole," members of the BUC said in a statement.

They believe that with serious approach and joint efforts of the different local officials as well as the military and police with the support of various stakeholders in the province, the current peace and order disturbances could be minimized and improved.

A spate of kidnappings in Basilan began July last year, where almost two dozens of people including children were abducted. This was followed by a series of killings of suspected members or sympathizers of Moro rebel and political groups.

Ustadz Abdulmuhmin Mujahid, BUC vice chairman for operations, alleged that the law and order situation in the province had collapsed, as incidents of killings are rampant in the different parts of the province.

"Residents were afraid of venturing out even in day time," Mujahid said. "Enough is enough in Basilan. No to kidnappings and killings!" Mujahid said.

But police and military authorities maintained that patrolling had been intensified in the province and special operations were being launched to arrest or neutralize criminals and lawless elements.