BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao del Sur

From GMA Regional TV (Jul 26, 2024): BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao del Sur (By Alwen Saliring)


Photo via PRO-BAR

At least six former members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have turned themselves in to the military in Maguindanao del Sur on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

The military and the police facilitated the surrender of the six in Barangay Salbu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan town.

According to the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), the surrender was a result of the joint efforts and dialogue between government forces and local government officials.

The six former violent extremists also handed over their ammunition and firearms, including three M14 rifles, an RPG-2, and two homemade M79 grenade launchers.

Upon their surrender, they were given two sacks of rice by the military while the local government is also set to give them assistance as they turn a new leaf over.

“Accomplishments such as this are a testament to a solid foundation of cooperation and support yielded among different government troops and units for the pursuit of peace and unity in the Bangsamoro region,” PRO-BAR said.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/103138/biff-members-surrender-in-maguindanao-del-sur/story/

Soldier slain in Maguindanao attack

From the Philippine Star (Jul 23, 2023): Soldier slain in Maguindanao attack (John Unson)

Army Pfc. Rosendo Gannaban died on the spot from multiple bullet wounds sustained in an encounter with Dawlah Islamiya in Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur on July 20, 2024.  Photo courtesy of Philstar.com / Artemio Dumlao

Philippines — A soldier was killed while another was wounded after a group of Dawlah Islamiya terrorists attacked an Army detachment in Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur on Saturday.

Pfc. Rosendo Gannaban of the Army’s 99th Infantry Battalion died at the scene of the incident that occurred in Barangay Pagatin 1.

Gannaban died due to multiple gunshot wounds while one of his companions was treated for minor injuries, the military said.

Reports said Gannaban and his companions were in the detachment when some 20 Dawlah Islamiya terrorists fired shots at them, trigerring a firefight.

Local leaders said the terrorist group was led by Ben Harris Salamat, alias Nakan, who has been wanted for murder, extortion, armed robbery and coddling drug traffickers.

Three terrorists were reportedly hit during the firefight, prompting Salamat and his men to retreat, according to barangay officials.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2024/07/23/2372186/soldier-slain-maguindanao-attack

Al-Barka, Basilan declared ASG-free

From GMA Regional TV (Jul 24, 2024): Al-Barka, Basilan declared ASG-free (By Alwen Saliring)


Photo via 101st Infantry Brigade

The town of Al-Barka in Basilan was declared free of the presence of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

According to the military, Al-Barka has a long history of violence involving the ASG but government forces were able to suppress the ASF influence and presence in the town.

The 101st Infantry Brigade said the declaration of the town as ASG-free marked a significant step towards lasting peace and progress.

“The collective efforts of the local government, security forces, and the community serve as a beacon of hope and resilience, paving the way for a brighter future,” 101st Infantry Brigade said.

During the ceremony, some residents surrendered seven firearms, including an M1 Garand rifle and pistols. The turnover of guns showed the town’s commitment to peace and the desire to move forward in building a safer and more secure environment for the generations to come.

The event was attended by local government leaders, police and military officials, and members of the 114th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces-Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Jihada Mindanao Command of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

The military urged the residents to ensure that peace and development will be sustained in the town.

Other areas in the province that have been declared ASG-free include the towns of Lantawan, Akbar, Ungkaya Pukan, and Lamitan City.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/103063/al-barka-basilan-declared-asg-free/story/

ISIS remains primary threat in South-east Asia: ISD

Posted to the Straits Times (Jul 25, 2024): ISIS remains primary threat in South-east Asia: ISD (By Wong Shiying)

The man who attacked the police station in Ulu Tiram, Johor, on May 17 was likely radicalised by ISIS' violent ideology. PHOTO: BERNAMA

SINGAPORE – South-east Asia continues to face an active terror threat, primarily from the ISIS militant group, said the Internal Security Department (ISD).

In its annual report on terrorism released on July 25, ISD said the region continues to see ISIS-linked or ISIS-inspired attacks and foiled plots.

On May 17, a radicalised man who was likely motivated by ISIS’ violent ideology attacked a police station in Ulu Tiram, Johor, with a machete, killing two police officers and injuring a third.

ISD said the incident underscores the continued resonance of radical ideologies, such as those extolled by ISIS, among the vulnerable and misguided.

“That this attack was carried out with an easily available bladed weapon also highlights how lone-actor attacks involving simple means remain a serious threat,” ISD added.

The attacker, a 21-year-old Malaysian, was shot dead by a police officer at the scene. His five family members were charged in court with terrorism-related offences.

ISD said Singapore remains a prized target and continues to be featured in ISIS propaganda.

A comment made in March in a forum of a pro-ISIS website suggested that the mujahideen should attack “Chinese outside China” in Muslim and Western countries, specifically mentioning Malaysia and Singapore.

ISD said ISIS supporters in South-east Asia use online communications to connect with like-minded people in the region and incite violence.

The agency pointed to a Philippines-based pro-ISIS media group, Al Fursan Media Foundation, which reportedly collaborated with pro-ISIS groups said to be based in Malaysia.

Turning to Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), ISD said the threat posed by the terror group remains, despite JI’s senior leadership announcing on June 30 that it would be dissolved.

JI’s dissolution is a major accomplishment for the Indonesian authorities, ISD said, noting that the group has been weakened and decimated by waves of pre-emptive strikes and arrests against its leaders and members since 2019.

However, ISD warned that groups within JI that do not agree with their senior leaders may splinter and carry out attacks to demonstrate their commitment to armed jihad.

“Some JI members may also continue to propagate the group’s ultimate ambition of establishing an Islamic caliphate in South-east Asia,” the agency added.

Nonetheless, ISD said in its report that there are strong counter-terrorism efforts in South-east Asia.

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In the Philippines, for example, security operations have weakened the Abu Sayyaf group’s operational capabilities, said ISD.

The group’s sub-leader and bomb-maker Mundi Sawadjaan was killed in December 2023 when Philippine security forces foiled his escape attempt.

ISD said Indonesia did not suffer any terror attacks in 2023, and the authorities there arrested close to 150 individuals in counter-terrorism operations that year.

Separately, ISD noted that a survey of Singapore residents found that 49 per cent of respondents believed the Republic was a target for terrorist attacks, and 67 per cent agreed that they were generally alert to and on the lookout for suspicious behaviours or items in a public place.

The survey by the then Ministry of Communications and Information, which polled over 2,000 Singaporeans and permanent residents from March to June in 2023, also found that 92 per cent of participants were willing to help other Singaporeans in a national crisis like a terrorist attack.

ISD said public vigilance and preparedness are key to Singapore’s defence against terrorism.

“The authorities will not always be able to neutralise plots before they are actualised, or identify radicalised individuals before they act,” the agency said.

“It is critical that the public remains strongly vigilant to the possibility of a terrorist attack against the country, and that such an attack may be successful.”

Anyone with information on or suspicions about terrorism-related activities, or people who may be radicalised, should contact the ISD counter-terrorism hotline on 1800-2626-473 (1800-2626-ISD).

Signs of possible radicalisation include sharing extremist views on social media platforms, and making remarks that promote ill-will or hatred towards people of other races and religions.

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/isis-remains-primary-threat-in-south-east-asia-isd

Mindanao armed groups funded by smuggled Indonesian cigarettes

From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 26, 2024): Mindanao armed groups funded by smuggled Indonesian cigarettes

ARMED groups in Mindanao are financing their activities through smuggled cigarettes, mostly originating from Indonesia, a security expert said in a recent forum.

Prof. Rohan Gunaratna, a security studies instructor at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, identified the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) as among the beneficiaries of the illicit cigarette trade in southern Philippines.

“Indonesia is a key source for the cigarettes coming in,” Gunaratna said during a recent forum titled “Terrorism-Illicit Trade Nexus: A National Security Threat” at the PROTECT 2024 Conference at the New World Hotel in Makati. “The Philippines is not benefitting from this revenue, because the carriers are the groups who are not recognized entities or the government.”

Delegates in the forum discussed ongoing and emerging threats which also include current geopolitical risks, violent extremism, climate change, cybersecurity and other disruptive technologies.

Among those who attended the forum are key defense officials such as National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Año and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., along with several officials of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila.

Gunaratna, who founded Singapore’s International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research, cited Indonesian trade data showing cigarette exports to the Philippines reaching $137 million or nearly P8 billion in 2021. However, these exports are not reflected in official Philippine import data.

The smuggled brands are typically unregistered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and lack graphic health warnings, tax stamps and other regulatory compliance. Common brands found in Mindanao include Gudang Baru, Oakley, Souvenir, Cannon, Bravo, New Berlin, Fort and Astro, though the total number is believed to exceed 50.

These cigarettes, frequently seized by authorities in Mindanao provinces, are also openly sold in stores and markets despite lacking import records or evidence of excise tax payment.

Gunaratna identified Palawan, Zamboanga, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi as entry points for smuggled cigarettes from Indonesia and Malaysia, citing millions of pesos worth of seized products between 2021 and 2023.

He said that as members of these groups consolidated their power through years of continued smuggling, they attained political positions in the areas that protected their businesses and interests.

“The emergence of numerous private ports, particularly in Mindanao, has facilitated the transport of smuggled goods from Malaysia to the southern Philippines,” Gunaratna said. “Unless these ports are monitored and regulated by the government, smuggling will continue.”

He said these areas are strongholds for the ASG and MNLF, where leaders have invested heavily in cigarette smuggling to fund their activities. Gunaratna said that as their power grew, these groups secured political positions that shielded their operations.

“Law enforcement is focused on dismantling this criminal network,” Gunaratna said. “It’s imperative that the national government work closely with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). It’s important to develop cooperation between armed forces with both the AFP and Philippine National Police [PNP] working together, to make sure these corrupt elements are neutralized,” Gunaratna said.

A report by the Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade (TRACIT) and the EU-ASEAN Business Council estimated that ASEAN governments lost nearly $3 billion in tax revenue from illicit tobacco products in 2017. The Philippines alone loses an estimated P100 billion ($1.9 billion) annually due to cigarette smuggling.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue reported a 15.9-percent decrease in tobacco excise tax collection in 2023, dropping from P160.55 billion in 2022 to P134.87 billion in 2023, representing a loss of about P25.5 billion.

https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/mindanao-armed-groups-funded-by-smuggled-indonesian-cigarettes/

Al-Barka town now ASG-free

 From the Daily Tribune (Jul 26, 2024): Al-Barka town now ASG-free (Nonoy Lacson)

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The military on Friday disclosed that Al-Barka town in Basilan province has been declared free of Abu Sayyaf Group influence.

The declaration, a culmination of efforts by the military, police and local government, marks a significant step toward peace and stability in the long-troubled region.

According to Brig. Gen. Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, it is a pivotal moment for Basilan.

“The cooperation between security forces and the community has been instrumental in achieving this milestone,” Luzon said.

https://tribune.net.ph/2024/07/26/al-barka-town-now-asg-free

PH Army honors Vietnam War veterans

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): PH Army honors Vietnam War veterans (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) on Sunday honored the heroism and sacrifice of Vietnam War veterans in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

“As we pay tribute to their immense sacrifice during their service in a foreign land, the importance of brotherhood without borders, shared goals, and global commitment to peace become more inspiring. Indeed the service of those who were involved in this conflict are timeless symbol of unity and hope and quest for peace that we would always long for,” PA chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said in his message forwarded to reporters Monday.

The Philippines deployed the 2,000-member Philippine Civic Action Group, Vietnam (PHILCAG) during the Vietnam War.

The group — guided by the motto "to build not to destroy" — was mainly involved in rebuilding key roads and providing humanitarian aid in the course of their deployment.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229443

DFA refutes Chinese claim on ‘prior notification’ in Ayungin deal

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): DFA refutes Chinese claim on ‘prior notification’ in Ayungin deal (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

COLLISION. Two Philippine Coast Guard personnel scramble to place a fender to lessen the impact of collision before BRP Sindangan (MRRV-4407) and the bigger Chinese Coast Guard vessel 21555 collide on March 5, 2024. The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday (July 22, 2024) belied China’s claim that the Philippines has agreed to its condition to inform Beijing in advance when conducting a resupply mission to the marooned BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday belied China’s claim that the Philippines has agreed to its condition to inform Beijing in advance when conducting a resupply mission to the marooned BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

The statement came after the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on July 21 that the two states reached an understanding based on this and several other conditions.

The ministry said China was willing to allow the resupply operations “if the Philippines informs China in advance and after onsite verification is conducted,” while it monitors the entire resupply process.

Responding to this, the DFA said the provisional arrangement on the resupply missions was reached “with the clear understanding by both sides that it will not prejudice our respective national positions.”

READ: PH, China reach ‘provisional arrangement’ on Ayungin missions

“The principles and approaches laid out in the agreement were reached through a series of careful and meticulous consultations between both sides that paved the way for a convergence of ideas without compromising national positions,” DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said.

“The spokesperson’s statement therefore regarding prior notification and on-site confirmation is inaccurate."

She said the agreement was “concluded with the clear understanding by both sides that it will not prejudice our respective national positions”.

Daza said the Philippines would continue asserting its rights and jurisdiction over its maritime zones, including the Ayungin Shoal, which is well within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

Daza said the arrangement was “done in good faith” and the Philippines remains ready to implement it.

“We urge China to do the same,” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229446

DND: Video from US rally 'crude destabilization attempt' vs. PBBM

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): DND: Video from US rally 'crude destabilization attempt' vs. PBBM (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan and Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday called a video from a gathering of a group linked to former president Rodrigo Duterte in the United States as "malicious."

"The obviously fake video being circulated emanating from a MAISUG gathering in Los Angeles is again a maliciously crude attempt to destabilize the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. They will not succeed!" DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

The DND was referring to a video at a gathering, which purportedly showed the Chief Executive using illegal drugs.

Andolong said the release of the contrived video in the US is a "cowardly attempt to escape Philippine criminal jurisdiction."

He also urged US authorities to investigate and bring to justice the perpetrators of this act.

In a video statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the video is “obviously manipulated.”

"Kitang kita po sa video na hindi po yan ang ating Pangulo. Peke ang ginawa nilang video at obvious na ito ay gawa-gawaan lang (It is obvious that the person in the video is not the President. The video they made is fake and it is obvious that it was made up)," he said.

Teodoro added that this act was part of an organized scheme to destablize the Marcos administration.

"Nag umpisa po ito sa mga fake na mga news tungkol po sa Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at DND. Tapos nagprogseso po ito sa diumano'y walkout na hindi naman po nangyari. Pagkatapos ngayon na curiously, araw ng SONA (State of the Nation Address), naglabas sila ng pekeng video at sa Amerika pa (It began with the fake news on the AFP and DND. Then it progressed to the alleged walkout, which did not even happen. Now, curiously, on the day of the SONA, they released a fake video in the US)," he added.

Teodoro, meanwhile, said the DND would continue to rally behind the Marcos administration and follow the chain of command.

"Itong mga isip-batang attempt na mapahina ang ating Saligang Batas at mga institusyon ay mariin po naming tututulan at lalabanan. Kami po ay makikipag-ugnayan sa lahat ng ahensya ng gobyerno upang masugpo itong mga nasa likod nitong mga di kanais-nais at karumal-dumal na plot na ito (We will resist and fight these childish attempts to weaken the Constitution and our institutions. We will coordinate with all government agencies to suppress those behind this unpleasant and horrible plot)," he added.

DILG orders probe

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., meanwhile, directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to form a task force to investigate the video.

In a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City, Abalos said he was convinced that the man in the video was not Marcos, noting that this type of content could be easily manipulated through artificial intelligence.

“Sa pagtingin namin sa video, hindi ako naniniwala na ang lalaking nandun ay ang ating Pangulo, sa tagal na kilala ko ang ating Pangulo ang mga features niya hindi siya yun (When I saw the video, I do not believe that it was the President. I have known the President for a long time and based on his features, it is not him who is in the video,” he said, noting the “extreme difference” of the ears of the man in the video and that of Marcos.

He added that the President would not engage in this kind of activity.

He questioned the timing of the release of the video which was made hours before the President’s SONA.

Abalos said he has yet to talk to the President about the matter and that he called for the press conference to discuss it on his own will.

The video was reportedly played in an anti-Marcos government rally abroad and has since made rounds on social media.

He assured that those behind the proliferation of the video will be held liable under the Anti-Cybercrime Law.

Abalos urged the public to be vigilant and not easily believe the things they see online especially if they came from an unverified source.

Fabricated

The National Security Council also slammed the act and described it as a crude attempt which reveals the desperation and ulterior motives of those behind it.

In a statement, the NSC expressed concern over this “calculated attempt to tarnish the President’s reputation and create political instability”.

“We condemn any attempt to destabilize the administration and we will resist any and all efforts to weaken our duly-constituted democratic institutions,” it added.

Crossed the line

House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe also strongly condemned the people responsible for the fabrication and dissemination of the AI-generated video.

“The fabricated video, which falsely depicts the President using illegal substances, is not just an attack on his person but an affront to the entire nation,” Dalipe said in a statement.

“Sobrang foul na ito (This is severely foul). Whoever is behind this and whoever is financing this attempt to malign the President has crossed the line. This act is not just an attack against our President but a blatant attempt to destabilize our government and undermine the integrity of our democratic processes. It erodes public trust and poses a serious threat to our national unity,” he added.

The House Leader emphasized the need for swift and decisive action against those responsible for this attack, saying that such misuse of technology for political gain cannot be tolerated.

He called on all sectors of society to join in condemning these actions and to work together to uphold the sanctity of our democratic institutions. (Jose Cielito Reganit/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229453

Marcos: PH won't yield, waver on asserting West PH Sea rights

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): Marcos: PH won't yield, waver on asserting West PH Sea rights (By Priam Nepomuceno)

JOINT SAIL. The Philippine Navy missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna and the Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Ottawa conduct a bilateral sail activity in an undisclosed location in the West Philippine Sea in this Sept. 21, 2023 photo. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his third SONA on Monday (July 22, 2024) said Manila will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS). (Photo courtesy of AFP Western Command)

MANILA – The Philippines will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

"In the face of challenges to our territorial sovereignty, we will assert our rights and interests in the same fair and pacific way that we have always done. Proper diplomatic channels and mechanisms under the rules-based international order remain the only acceptable means of settling disputes," the Chief Executive said in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa.

Marcos also emphasized that peace and community-building are always the Philippines' way, especially since the country would be the chair and host of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

He also stressed the Philippines would find ways to de-escalate tensions in contested areas with other claimant nations without compromising the country's position and principles.

With more Filipinos realizing the need to secure and defend its vast territories, Marcos said the government would continue beefing up its defenses and engage with like-minded states to improve its security.

"We are now more conscious as a people and strategic in heightening our aerial and maritime domain awareness. We are continuing to strengthen our defense posture, both through developing self-reliance and through partnerships with like-minded states," he noted.

The WPS is a real part of the country's patrimony, the President stressed.

"Ito ay atin. At ito ay mananatiling atin, hangga’t nag-aalab ang diwa ng ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas. Pagtitibayin at palalaguin natin ang kamalayan at kaalaman ng buong bansa, at titiyaking maipapasa natin ito sa ating kabataan at ating susunod na mga salinlahi. (This is ours. And it will remain ours as long as our love for our country, the Philippines, remains ablaze. We will strengthen our nation's consciousness and knowledge over this territory and we will see to it that it is passed down to our youths and the next generation)," he added.

Marcos said Philippine laws on its maritime zones and archipelagic sea lanes would make sure that this intergenerational mandate would take root in the hearts and minds of our people.

In this regard, the President expressed his thanks, along with those of the nation, to the Armed Forces, the Coast Guard, and Filipino fisherfolks who continue to go about their lawful mandate in the WPS.

He added that this gratitude was only fitting for the sacrifices they made while standing guard over this vital waterway.

Fighting insurgency

Marcos also noted the elimination of active guerilla fronts due to the ongoing efforts by the military and government to ensure that the New People's Army (NPA) was neutralized decisively.

"We have come a long way in our quest for a lasting and inclusive peace. No guerilla fronts remain active across the country today. Only seven weakened groups remain to be dismantled, and they are the subject of focused operations," he added.

Along with the assertion of government might, Marcos said they were offering peace, community development, and reintegration programs for those who have returned to the fold of the law.

"Through a comprehensive and transformative approach, we have rebuilt not only lives but also conflict-affected communities," he added.

The peace agreement is now in its concluding phase, the President said.

"Former combatants now live peaceful and productive lives in their respective communities. Some of our former rebels are now absorbed into the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) serving in the defense of our Republic; while others are now part of the PNP BARMM (Philippine National Police Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao)" he added.

Marcos said the government would honor and fully comply with its remaining deliverables and commitments under these peace agreements.

"In November last year, we signed proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels. A month later, and then in June of this year, the House of Representatives and the Senate issued their respective resolutions concurring with these amnesty proclamations," Marcos noted.

Congressional support for these initiatives is a testament to the whole nation’s sincere desire for peace, the President said.

Laudable

As this developed, 50-year-old Mike Dela Cruz, a resident of Sampaloc, Manila, and a native of Ilocos Sur, expressed his support to the Chief Executive's ongoing programs.

Dela Cruz was spotted carrying a bobblehead of the President during the "Tunog ng Bagong Pilipinas" concert in front of the Sandiganbayan and Commission on Audit at Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City.

He lauded Marcos' governance for the past three years and expressed that he and all his family are supporters of the President. Dela Cruz also expressed hope that the Chief Executive could help curb the prices of goods in the market in the coming days.

His views were shared by Jover Dailo, 35, a barbecue vendor residing in Makati City, who also expressed hope that the President will be able to find a remedy against high prices of goods.

He lauded Marcos for ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving the Philippines' competitiveness. (with reports from Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229510

PH, US to discuss ways to enhance alliance during Manila talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): PH, US to discuss ways to enhance alliance during Manila talks (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

IMPROVED COOPERATION. US State Secretary Antony Blinken (left) and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo speak to foreign and local media after their bilateral meeting at Sofitel Manila on March 19, 2024. Manalo said an improved cooperation with Washington is vital for the Philippines to build its capacity not only for maritime but also for humanitarian operations. (PNA photo by Joyce Rocamora)

MANILA – The Philippines and the United States are set to discuss ways to bolster their 72-year-old alliance in the upcoming Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) next week.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday announced that Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. will meet with US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III in Manila for the 2+2 on July 30.

This will be the 4th iteration of the Philippine-US ministerial dialogue, following the meeting held in Washington DC last April 2023.

“The Philippines-U.S. Alliance has contributed to the maintenance of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region for over 70 years,” the DFA said in a press statement.

“During this year’s 2+2 Dialogue, the four Secretaries are expected to discuss how to further enhance our two countries’ ironclad commitment to this alliance while enabling a common program in support of the rules-based international order, enhanced economic ties, broad-based prosperity, and solutions to evolving regional and global security challenges,” it added.

In the last 2+2 meeting, the two states issued a joint statement that reaffirmed full support for international law, modernizing shared defense capabilities of the alliance, advancing economic and environmental security, and cultivating vibrant and robust people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Blinken and Austin are also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. during their visit to Manila, the DFA said.

The US has reiterated its “ironclad commitment” to the alliance on numerous occasions in the face of Beijing’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.

During his visit to Manila on March 19, Blinken said the US would continue to bolster its maritime, defense, as well as economic cooperation with Manila.

He said Washington DC’s foreign policy is to reinvigorate existing partnerships in the region and “build nuance that are fit” for the needs of its partner country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229554

PH eyes defense pacts with 3 more countries (By Priam Nepomuceno)

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): PH eyes defense pacts with 3 more countries (By Priam Nepomuceno)

DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. (File photo courtesy of the DND)

MANILA – The Philippines is looking to sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Canada, France, and New Zealand. Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. has said.

"We are going to work on an RAA hopefully with Canada, with France, (also) with New Zealand and with other countries that escaped my memory," Teodoro said in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel on Monday afternoon.

The DND chief also said a similar pact with these countries will center on interoperability between their military forces.

"They will all look the same, they will allow (the) Armed Forces of these different countries to operate with the Philippine Armed Forces within the Philippine territorial jurisdictions and vice versa so it will increase interoperability between these countries," he added.

The country's first RAA signed with Japan last July 8, aims to lift restrictions on military-to-military exchange between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan Self Defense Force.

The DND chief said he hopes to start talks with these countries on a possible RAA by next year.

"Hopefully by next year, it is not easy to negotiate the RAA, and that's why we want a Defense Transformation Bill to come out because our staff is limited," he added.

However, despite the DND only having 267 employees, Teodoro said that negotiating and finishing the RAA with Japan is a big accomplishment.

"I'm very proud with what everybody is doing in this department despite its handicap so I hope our legislators listen and capacitate us so that we can do more," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229567

AFP grateful for PBBM's special mention in SONA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): AFP grateful for PBBM's special mention in SONA (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMAND CONFERENCE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) leads the Mid-Year Command Conference of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on July 4, 2024. The AFP on Tuesday (July 23) thanked the President for recognizing its efforts in protecting the country's territories during his third State Of the Nation Address (SONA). (Photo courtesy of Presidential Photojournalists Association)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for recognizing its efforts in protecting the country's territories, including the West Philippine Sea (WPS), during his third State Of the Nation Address (SONA).

"The AFP expresses our gratitude for the President's recognition of our ongoing efforts in safeguarding our territory. This acknowledgment serves as an inspiration to all our personnel who tirelessly serve to ensure the safety and sovereignty of our beloved country," AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

She added that they take immense pride in the sacrifice and heroism of AFP members who continue to guard the nation.

"The President's recognition confirms that our efforts are noticed and boosts morale and dedication in fulfilling our duties. We will not be deterred from performing our mission to protect and uphold the sovereignty of our country. Your AFP will not yield nor waver," Padilla stressed.

Marcos, in Monday's address, thanked the military, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Filipino fishermen who continue to go about their lawful mandate in the WPS.

He also said the military, police and the PCG continuously undergo capacity-building and asset-upgrading for these to be more capable of preserving the country's peace and territorial defense.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229568

AFP echoes Marcos: No yielding in resolve to protect WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): AFP echoes Marcos: No yielding in resolve to protect WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) conducting another maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea on Sept. 22, 2023. (File photo courtesy of AFP Western Command)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has committed to rallying behind President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s tough stance on asserting Manila's rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in his State of the Nation Address on Monday.

"The AFP will continue to uphold our mission, ensuring that our sovereignty and territorial integrity are safeguarded and that we remain vigilant in our commitment to national defense. We will not yield and waver and will face open and covert threats to our national security with the courage of a true Filipino patriot," AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in a statement Tuesday.

While they are always ready to defend the country, Brawner said they also fully support the President's strategy of a fair and pacifist approach that emphasizes rules-based international order and efforts toward de-escalation.

"We believe in the importance of maintaining peace and stability through diplomatic means and constructive dialogue," he added.

Brawner said the AFP stands behind Marcos' vision of building strong relationships with like-minded nations to promote mutual security and cooperation.

He also thanked the President's unwavering support for AFP modernization efforts and the push towards self-reliance, which are essential for strengthening the country's defense capabilities.

"As we shift our focus towards external defense, we are thankful for the President's acknowledgment of our accomplishments in addressing internal security threats. We fully commit to the whole-of-nation approach and the fulfillment of our government's obligations and agreements aimed at ending decades of strife and ushering just and lasting peace in the country," Brawner said.

Meanwhile, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the support of the Commander-in-Chief for their efforts in the WPS will further strengthen their resolve to respond to the call of duty.

"Our men and women especially those in our occupied features are thankful their sacrifices are recognized. Your Navy will not yield, nor will we waiver in ensuring the integrity of our territory," he added.

Number of Chinese ships in WPS down to 80

As this developed, the PN on Tuesday said the number of Chinese vessels spotted in various features in the WPS from July 16 to 22 has reached 80.

This is greatly lower than the 105 assorted vessels monitored from July 9 to 15.

These can be broken down into nine China Coast Guard Vessels (CCGVs), two from the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and 69 from the Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMVs).

The PN said these ships were located in the following features:

--Bajo de Masinloc, two CCGV and seven CMMVs;

--Ayungin Shoal, four CCGVs, two PLAN, and 14 CMMVs;

--Pagasa Island, one CCGV and 10 CMMVs;

--Kota Island, two CMMVs;

--Lawak Island, one CMMV;

--Panata, one CMMV;

--Sabina Shoal, one CCGV and six CMMVs.

Mandatory prayer for peace

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued an "oratio imperata" (mandatory prayer) for peace to reign in the WPS.

In its "Oratio Imperata”, which will be prayed nationwide from July 25, 2024 to Jan. 1, 2025, the Catholic bishops are seeking divine intercession for the easing of tensions in these waters.

"Spare us, Lord, from the horrors of war. Hear our pleas as we cry out to You. Have mercy on us, Lord; rescue us from the malevolent forces that influence world leaders," said the CBCP prayer released Tuesday.

The prayer was approved during the 128th CBCP Plenary Assembly held recently in Mindanao.

"We pray for our leaders entrusted with making crucial decisions for our nation. We place all our hopes in You," it added.

Archdioceses and dioceses across the country have been given copies of the prayer.

CBCP president Bishop Pablo Virgilio David earlier said the issuance of the mandatory prayer is the Catholic Church’s contribution to the easing of tensions in the WPS. (with report from Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229592

Presidential security ready to secure VP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): Presidential security ready to secure VP (By Darryl John Esguerra)

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte (PNA file photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

MANILA – The Presidential Security Command (PSC) is ready to guard Vice President Sara Duterte, its Commander said Tuesday, following the recall of police officers from her protective security detail.

“The Presidential Security Command is ready to ensure the security and safety of the Vice President,” Brig. Gen. Nelson Morales, PSC commander, told reporters in a text message.

Earlier, Duterte confirmed that 75 Police and Security and Protection Group (PSPG) officers assigned to her have already been recalled by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the recall of Duterte’s police security detail is meant to rationalize deployment to security operations.

He also said the Vice President’s security is under the jurisdiction of the PSC and the PSPG only complements security details.

Formerly known as the Presidential Security Group, the PSC is a unit under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mandated to provide protection escort for the President, Vice President and their immediate families, as well as honor guard duties for visiting dignitaries.

To recall, the AFP activated in 2022 the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group before Duterte became the second highest official of the land.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229649