From the Manila Times (Jan 7): Prosecution denies US hand in murder case
THE prosecution panel in the murder case of American serviceman George Anikow has denied reports that the United States government has been intervening in the case. Public Prosecutor Hannah Arriola said that she did not receive any order from the US government nor from the Department of Justice to ensure the conviction of the four accused in the murder of Anikow, the spouse of a US diplomat. “Nothing from the mayor, nothing from the secretary of the Department of Justice,” said Arriola when asked if she received any such directive.
She explained that representatives from the US embassy in Manila were just attending the hearing to monitor the progress of the case and that they did not interfere in the litigation. “Hindi naman nila ako kinakausap [They did not talk to me], I did not even know that they are there. They are just attending the hearing to monitor the progress of the case,” Arriola added. Relatives of one of the accused earlier asked US officials attending the hearing to stay out of the case.
Meanwhile, the Branch 59 of the Regional Trial Court of Makati City is set to view today the original closed-circuit television (CCTV) footages on the murder of Anikow at the Rockwell Center. Arriola explained that the viewing of the original CCTV footages is necessary in order to compare it with the copy submitted to the Makati police investigators and later presented as evidence before the court. “We will view the original copy for comparison with the video presented to the court,” she added.
The viewing at the Rockwell Command Center was ordered by Judge Winlove Dumayas of the regional court in Makati after the hard drive of the CCTV footages was not presented to the court as this would affect the operations of Rockwell Center’s CCTV system.
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/nation/38824-prosecution-denies-us-hand-in-murder-case
Sunday, January 6, 2013
MILF probes foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao
From the Manila Times (Jan 7): MILF probes foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has launched its own probe into the series of foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao province. Civilians on Saturday discovered a powerful homemade bomb in Shariff Aguak town, but military and police authorities remain silent about the breach in security. The improvised explosive, assembled from mortar bombs and detonator, was found by locals in a downtown area.
The Sixth Infantry Division did not give any statement about the breach in security despite the huge numbers of soldiers deployed in the province where its main headquarters are located. Col. Prudencio Asto, Army spokesman did not answer repeated phone calls by journalists trying to get a statement from the military about its failure to prevent bombing attempts. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the foiled bombing.
“We are also conducting our own investigation into the recovery of bombs and other explosives in recent weeks and we are looking whether this has anything to do with the peace talks between the Islamic group and the Aquino government. This could also be connected to politics or a third party trying to muddle up the peace talks,” Von al Haq, a rebel spokesman, told The Manila Times.
The governor of Maguindanao, Esmael Mangudadatu, also did not give a statement about the foiled bombing. He had been the target of bomb attacks in the past and he blamed his political foes for all attempts to kill him.
MILF signed a framework agreement with Manila in October for the creation of Bangsamoro homeland, which would replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao comprising of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi; and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/nation/38822-milf-probes-foiled-bomb-attacks-in-maguindanao
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has launched its own probe into the series of foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao province. Civilians on Saturday discovered a powerful homemade bomb in Shariff Aguak town, but military and police authorities remain silent about the breach in security. The improvised explosive, assembled from mortar bombs and detonator, was found by locals in a downtown area.
The Sixth Infantry Division did not give any statement about the breach in security despite the huge numbers of soldiers deployed in the province where its main headquarters are located. Col. Prudencio Asto, Army spokesman did not answer repeated phone calls by journalists trying to get a statement from the military about its failure to prevent bombing attempts. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the foiled bombing.
“We are also conducting our own investigation into the recovery of bombs and other explosives in recent weeks and we are looking whether this has anything to do with the peace talks between the Islamic group and the Aquino government. This could also be connected to politics or a third party trying to muddle up the peace talks,” Von al Haq, a rebel spokesman, told The Manila Times.
The governor of Maguindanao, Esmael Mangudadatu, also did not give a statement about the foiled bombing. He had been the target of bomb attacks in the past and he blamed his political foes for all attempts to kill him.
MILF signed a framework agreement with Manila in October for the creation of Bangsamoro homeland, which would replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao comprising of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi; and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/nation/38822-milf-probes-foiled-bomb-attacks-in-maguindanao
MILF says ban on its officials seeking elective posts remains
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 6): MILF says ban on its
officials seeking elective posts remains
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said its policy against any of its officials seeking elective posts remains. Muhammad Ameen, chief of the MILF’s central committee secretariat, said the prohibition on participation by any MILF official in Philippine political exercises, which was formulated in 1984, has not been lifted. “The MILF, as an organization, will not meddle in the May 2013 balloting,” he said in a statement. He said sanctions await those who violate the said policy.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said its policy against any of its officials seeking elective posts remains. Muhammad Ameen, chief of the MILF’s central committee secretariat, said the prohibition on participation by any MILF official in Philippine political exercises, which was formulated in 1984, has not been lifted. “The MILF, as an organization, will not meddle in the May 2013 balloting,” he said in a statement. He said sanctions await those who violate the said policy.
The MILF has previously sacked Eid Kabalu,
its spokesperson, following findings he had actively participated in previous
elections by supporting and endorsing particular parties and candidates. “Philippines elections are so divisive and
expensive that after every election, so much bloodshed and corrupt practices
ensue,” Ameen said in explaining why the policy was maintained despite the
signing of the initial agreement, which would become the basis of the charter of
the future Bangsamoro government that would replace the current autonomous
setup. Even if the candidates were related to
MILF officials, Ameen said: “Just the same, we do not support them.”
But while prohibiting its officials from
seeking public office, Ameen said the MILF has been encouraging ordinary members
to vote in the May polls. “We urge them to participate if they are
qualified voters and choose candidates who are supportive of the GPH-MILF
Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro,” he said. With this, he warned politicians hostile
to the peace negotiations they would not get the votes of the Moro people. For those who “made amends” by supporting
the framework agreement, Ameen said they can expect support from Moro voters.
“There is always a second time for people
who sincerely repent and make up,” he said.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao
(ARMM), composed of the provinces of Sulu, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan
and Tawi-Tawi, is populated mainly by Moros. The MILF has control over various
areas of the region and maintains base commands in its five provinces.
Release of RPA-ABB Hitmen in Arles Murder Case No Longer News
From the Negros Daily Bulletin (Jan 7): Release of RPA-ABB Hitmen in Arles Murder Case No Longer News
Deficiencies in the country’s justice system has resulted in the release of Eddie Fortunado, and the other suspects in the alleged murder case of Kabankalan RTC Judge Henry Arles, lawyer Frank Britanico, brother-in-law of the murdered magistrate, said in a text message to NNF/NDB after the suspect’s release last week on legal issues. Earlier, Fortunado had placed himself under the custody of the NBI supposedly for protection and a while later sought his freedom temporarily through his mother’s appeal.
Earlier, too, his co-accused the confessed triggerman Jessie Daguia and alleged conspirator, Alejandro Capunong who were accused of illegal possession of firearms by the NBI were also released. But all faced the main complaints of murder for the killing of Judge Arles.
Judge Fernando Elumba, of the RTC Branch 42 in Bacolod City had ordered Fortunado’s release ruling that there was no legal basis for his continued detention. But a pending complaint for murder remains and has purportedly been resolved by the state prosecutor assigned to the case, Vimar Barcellano. The resolution, according to Britanico, has been forwarded for review to the office of the government’s solicitor-general. It is later to be forwarded to DOJ Secretary Leila Delima.
Previously, too, Fortunado’s mother, Tess, had filed for her son’s release on a Writ of Amparo. Tess Fortunado had appealed for the release of her son under a Writ of Amparo because according to her, there was no more reason to hold him in the NBI office in Manila.
In his response to the issue of Fortunado’s release, the brother-in-law of the late Judge Arles, lawyer Frank Britanico who acts as the family’s spokesman, said that insofar as they are concerned, the release of Fortunado is no longer news to them. His release, Britanico said, is just an offshoot of deficiencies in the country’s legal system. Fortunado’s release, however, added Britanico, is not an infication of a strong legal basis because the evidence against him and the other suspects in the main complaint, the killing of Judge Arles, is strong.
The evidence against the suspects in the case, all ten of them is strong, said Britanico. Britanico said he and his family believe that warrants of arrest will soon be issued against the suspects in the Arles murder case. Jurisprudence says, once warrants of arrest are issued for a murder complaint which is unbailable, they will be detained without bail. The RPA-ABB hitmen and the political masterminds will be arrested, he said.
http://www.ndb-online.com/010713/local-news/local-news-release-rpa-abb-hitmen-arles-murder-case-no-longer-news
Deficiencies in the country’s justice system has resulted in the release of Eddie Fortunado, and the other suspects in the alleged murder case of Kabankalan RTC Judge Henry Arles, lawyer Frank Britanico, brother-in-law of the murdered magistrate, said in a text message to NNF/NDB after the suspect’s release last week on legal issues. Earlier, Fortunado had placed himself under the custody of the NBI supposedly for protection and a while later sought his freedom temporarily through his mother’s appeal.
Earlier, too, his co-accused the confessed triggerman Jessie Daguia and alleged conspirator, Alejandro Capunong who were accused of illegal possession of firearms by the NBI were also released. But all faced the main complaints of murder for the killing of Judge Arles.
Judge Fernando Elumba, of the RTC Branch 42 in Bacolod City had ordered Fortunado’s release ruling that there was no legal basis for his continued detention. But a pending complaint for murder remains and has purportedly been resolved by the state prosecutor assigned to the case, Vimar Barcellano. The resolution, according to Britanico, has been forwarded for review to the office of the government’s solicitor-general. It is later to be forwarded to DOJ Secretary Leila Delima.
Previously, too, Fortunado’s mother, Tess, had filed for her son’s release on a Writ of Amparo. Tess Fortunado had appealed for the release of her son under a Writ of Amparo because according to her, there was no more reason to hold him in the NBI office in Manila.
In his response to the issue of Fortunado’s release, the brother-in-law of the late Judge Arles, lawyer Frank Britanico who acts as the family’s spokesman, said that insofar as they are concerned, the release of Fortunado is no longer news to them. His release, Britanico said, is just an offshoot of deficiencies in the country’s legal system. Fortunado’s release, however, added Britanico, is not an infication of a strong legal basis because the evidence against him and the other suspects in the main complaint, the killing of Judge Arles, is strong.
The evidence against the suspects in the case, all ten of them is strong, said Britanico. Britanico said he and his family believe that warrants of arrest will soon be issued against the suspects in the Arles murder case. Jurisprudence says, once warrants of arrest are issued for a murder complaint which is unbailable, they will be detained without bail. The RPA-ABB hitmen and the political masterminds will be arrested, he said.
http://www.ndb-online.com/010713/local-news/local-news-release-rpa-abb-hitmen-arles-murder-case-no-longer-news
Police IDs found on gang suspects killed in Quezon shootout
From InterAksyon (Jan 7): Police IDs found on gang suspects killed in Quezon shootout
Some of the 13 alleged members of a criminal gang killed in a shootout with police officers in Quezon on Sunday afternoon were said to be members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as well, a police official disclosed Monday. Senior Superintendent Val de Leon, Quezon provincial police director, said that based on the identification cards recovered from the slain suspects, at least three had IDs from the PNP. He would not immediately disclose the names of the men.
Some of the 13 alleged members of a criminal gang killed in a shootout with police officers in Quezon on Sunday afternoon were said to be members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as well, a police official disclosed Monday. Senior Superintendent Val de Leon, Quezon provincial police director, said that based on the identification cards recovered from the slain suspects, at least three had IDs from the PNP. He would not immediately disclose the names of the men.
Radio reports, however, identified one of the slain "suspects" as Superintendent Alfredo Consamino, said to be a ranking official in the Mimaropa (Mindoro-Marinduque-Romblon-Palawan) police office. De Leon said that there were also soldiers among those killed in the encounter in the boundaries of Atimonan and Plaridel towns Sunday afternoon.
Policemen and soldiers were acting on intelligence reports that a Bicol-based crime group was passing by the area headed for Metro Manila so they set up a checkpoint, where the suspects fired at those manning the checkpoint, triggering a gun fight.
"Meron tayong tatlong pulis na namatay based on the IDs we recovered but we have yet to confirm their identity kasi merong mga coordination na ginagawa ang ating RD (regional director, Chief Superintendent James Melad) at inaalam pa yung true identity kasi ang pagkakilanlan based on the IDs that were recovered sa kanilang katawan," de Leon said in a phone interview.
Asked if the three policemen were suspects, de Leon said, "We did not expect at all that there were uniformed personnel involved."
A ranking police officer, Supt. Hansel Marantan, was also wounded in the incident.
Authorities recovered several high-powered firearms, including ten M14 rifles and an M16 baby armalite, from the slain suspects. The group was said to be engaged in a wide range of illegal activities, including robbery and illegal drugs.
National Commission on Muslim Filipinos endorses “Thy Womb”
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 7): National Commission on Muslim Filipinos endorses “Thy Womb”
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) is encouraging the Muslim communities in Soccksargen Region to watch “Thy Womb,”. “I am highly endorsing the Filipino movie, Thy Womb, to our Muslim communities,” Atty. Guialil R. Kanda, NCMF provincial director in General Santos City wrote in his letter of endorsement dated January 4. “(Thy Womb is) "a good vehicle in communicating interfaith and ecumenical spirit of respect and understanding for other people's beliefs, " he said.
Directed by award-winning director Brillante Mendoza, Thy Womb tackles the struggles of Shalela Sarail (Aunor), a Badjao midwife, and her husband Bangas-An of Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi. Shalela agonizes over her own infertility and failure to bear her a child. To fulfil her husband’s only wish of having a child -- anchored on the belief that a child is a tangible proof of Divine grace – Shalela resolved to find an appropriate woman who would agree to their proposal to become Bangas-An’s second wife and bear him a child as well as try to find money to pay for the dowry. The movie also stars Lovi Poe and Mercedes Cabral.
The movie, which tells the couple’s story “against the backdrop of misleadingly projected war-torn Tawi-Tawi…shows the exact opposite of what most people perceived Mindanao to be,” Kanda said. “While the movie revolves around the story of a Badjao couple, it generally handles not only the issue on religion but of being a Filipino. It fosters an appreciation of our culture that is part of our heritage as a nation.” It also tackles the life of the communities in Tawi-Tawi, their joys and struggles, and the colourful rituals and ceremonies as well as their problems with pirates and the military.
Thy Womb is an entry of the Metro Manila Film Festival where it garnered several awards including Best Director for Mendoza, Best Actress for Aunor, Best Story, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Gatpuno Villegas Cultural Award, and Most Gender Sensitive Film. Earlier, the film competed for the Golden Lion at the 69th Venice Internatinal Film Festival. It won three special prizes in the festival: La Navicella Venezia Cinema Award, the P. Nazareno Taddei Award - Special Mention, and the Bisato d' Oro Award for Best Actress for Aunor. “By all means, let us support and watch this movie more so as it positively depicts Mindanao culture and traditions,” Kanda said.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611357527056
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) is encouraging the Muslim communities in Soccksargen Region to watch “Thy Womb,”. “I am highly endorsing the Filipino movie, Thy Womb, to our Muslim communities,” Atty. Guialil R. Kanda, NCMF provincial director in General Santos City wrote in his letter of endorsement dated January 4. “(Thy Womb is) "a good vehicle in communicating interfaith and ecumenical spirit of respect and understanding for other people's beliefs, " he said.
Directed by award-winning director Brillante Mendoza, Thy Womb tackles the struggles of Shalela Sarail (Aunor), a Badjao midwife, and her husband Bangas-An of Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi. Shalela agonizes over her own infertility and failure to bear her a child. To fulfil her husband’s only wish of having a child -- anchored on the belief that a child is a tangible proof of Divine grace – Shalela resolved to find an appropriate woman who would agree to their proposal to become Bangas-An’s second wife and bear him a child as well as try to find money to pay for the dowry. The movie also stars Lovi Poe and Mercedes Cabral.
The movie, which tells the couple’s story “against the backdrop of misleadingly projected war-torn Tawi-Tawi…shows the exact opposite of what most people perceived Mindanao to be,” Kanda said. “While the movie revolves around the story of a Badjao couple, it generally handles not only the issue on religion but of being a Filipino. It fosters an appreciation of our culture that is part of our heritage as a nation.” It also tackles the life of the communities in Tawi-Tawi, their joys and struggles, and the colourful rituals and ceremonies as well as their problems with pirates and the military.
Thy Womb is an entry of the Metro Manila Film Festival where it garnered several awards including Best Director for Mendoza, Best Actress for Aunor, Best Story, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Gatpuno Villegas Cultural Award, and Most Gender Sensitive Film. Earlier, the film competed for the Golden Lion at the 69th Venice Internatinal Film Festival. It won three special prizes in the festival: La Navicella Venezia Cinema Award, the P. Nazareno Taddei Award - Special Mention, and the Bisato d' Oro Award for Best Actress for Aunor. “By all means, let us support and watch this movie more so as it positively depicts Mindanao culture and traditions,” Kanda said.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611357527056
MILF: MILF members in Sulu urged to close ranks
From the MILF Website (Jan 7): MILF members in Sulu urged to close ranks
A senior member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has urged members in the province of Sulu to close ranks and spread the real content or substance of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), in the heels of report that some unscrupulous persons including politicians are spreading rumors that the FAB is nothing but a useless scrap of paper. Muhammad Ameen, chairperson of the MILF Secretariat, told Luwaran that the best way to counter these detractors FAB is to talk to the people directly and explain to them in plain and simple language that they understand the content of the agreement and what it brings to better the future of the entire Bangsamoro. “Expose their game and hidden self-agenda and in the end they will collapse in the face of truth,” he said. Sulu, which used to be the turf of the MNLF, is now fast becoming the bastion of the MILF as more and more people are joining the ranks of the MILF.
The MILF has complete political and military organs in Sulu. In addition, thousands of women are also enlisting in the social welfare committee of the MILF, which caters to the modest needs of the people, especially in terms of health, sanitation, adult education, etc. Asked to identify the detractors, Ameen refused to divulge their identities, saying it is not advisable and we are reaching out to them. He said problems like this should be handled cautiously and should be non-antagonistic to prevent it from degenerating. However, he said the government knows the identities of these people and surely, he added, it is not good to let these people proceed with their anti-peace agenda.
In a related development, Ameen disclosed that the MILF is trying very much to involve people in the island provinces to run the organization. But he said membership in the MILF central committee is not more by geographical representation but it is something that hinges on long service to the struggle, commitment and loyalty to the Bangsamoro cause, and capability to lead. However, he disclosed that right now the island provinces have at least five members of the MILF central leadership. He also disclosed that two members of the Transition Commission (TC) nominated by the MILF are coming from the island provinces.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3029:milf-members-in-sulu-urged-to-close-ranks&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
A senior member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has urged members in the province of Sulu to close ranks and spread the real content or substance of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), in the heels of report that some unscrupulous persons including politicians are spreading rumors that the FAB is nothing but a useless scrap of paper. Muhammad Ameen, chairperson of the MILF Secretariat, told Luwaran that the best way to counter these detractors FAB is to talk to the people directly and explain to them in plain and simple language that they understand the content of the agreement and what it brings to better the future of the entire Bangsamoro. “Expose their game and hidden self-agenda and in the end they will collapse in the face of truth,” he said. Sulu, which used to be the turf of the MNLF, is now fast becoming the bastion of the MILF as more and more people are joining the ranks of the MILF.
The MILF has complete political and military organs in Sulu. In addition, thousands of women are also enlisting in the social welfare committee of the MILF, which caters to the modest needs of the people, especially in terms of health, sanitation, adult education, etc. Asked to identify the detractors, Ameen refused to divulge their identities, saying it is not advisable and we are reaching out to them. He said problems like this should be handled cautiously and should be non-antagonistic to prevent it from degenerating. However, he said the government knows the identities of these people and surely, he added, it is not good to let these people proceed with their anti-peace agenda.
In a related development, Ameen disclosed that the MILF is trying very much to involve people in the island provinces to run the organization. But he said membership in the MILF central committee is not more by geographical representation but it is something that hinges on long service to the struggle, commitment and loyalty to the Bangsamoro cause, and capability to lead. However, he disclosed that right now the island provinces have at least five members of the MILF central leadership. He also disclosed that two members of the Transition Commission (TC) nominated by the MILF are coming from the island provinces.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3029:milf-members-in-sulu-urged-to-close-ranks&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
Muslim rebels launch own probe on series of foiled bomb attacks in Philippine province
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 6): Muslim rebels launch own probe on series of foiled bomb attacks
in Philippine province
The Philippines’ largest Muslim rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front has launched its own probe into the series of foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao province. Civilians on Saturday discovered a powerful homemade bomb in Shariff Aguak town, but military and police authorities remain silent about the breach in security. The improvised explosive, assembled from mortar bombs and detonator, was found by locals in downtown area. The 6th Infantry Division did not give any statement about the breach in security despite the huge numbers of soldiers deployed in the province where its main headquarters are located. Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto did not answer repeated phone calls by journalists trying to get a statement from the military about its failure to prevent bombing attempts. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the foiled bombing.
“We are also conducting our own investigation into the recovery of bombs and other explosives in recent weeks and we are looking whether this has anything to do with the peace talks between the MILF and the Aquino government. This could also be connected to politics or a third party trying to muddle up the peace talks,” Von al Haq, a rebel spokesman, told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
The governor of Maguindanao, Esmael Mangudadatu, also did not give a statement about the foiled bombing, but had been the target of bomb attacks in the past and he blamed his political foes for all attempts to kill him.
The MILF has signed a framework agreement with Manila in October for the creation of Bangsamoro homeland, which would replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao comprising of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi; and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106004346
The Philippines’ largest Muslim rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front has launched its own probe into the series of foiled bomb attacks in Maguindanao province. Civilians on Saturday discovered a powerful homemade bomb in Shariff Aguak town, but military and police authorities remain silent about the breach in security. The improvised explosive, assembled from mortar bombs and detonator, was found by locals in downtown area. The 6th Infantry Division did not give any statement about the breach in security despite the huge numbers of soldiers deployed in the province where its main headquarters are located. Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto did not answer repeated phone calls by journalists trying to get a statement from the military about its failure to prevent bombing attempts. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the foiled bombing.
“We are also conducting our own investigation into the recovery of bombs and other explosives in recent weeks and we are looking whether this has anything to do with the peace talks between the MILF and the Aquino government. This could also be connected to politics or a third party trying to muddle up the peace talks,” Von al Haq, a rebel spokesman, told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
The governor of Maguindanao, Esmael Mangudadatu, also did not give a statement about the foiled bombing, but had been the target of bomb attacks in the past and he blamed his political foes for all attempts to kill him.
The MILF has signed a framework agreement with Manila in October for the creation of Bangsamoro homeland, which would replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao comprising of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi; and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106004346
Military seemingly useless in Maguindanao!
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 6): Militar mistulang inutil sa Maguindanao! (Military seemingly useless in Maguindanao!)
Isang imbestigasyon ang inilunsad ngayon ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front upang mabatid ang dahilan ay kung sino ang nasa likod ng mga tangkang pambobomba sa lalawigan ng Maguindanao. Ito'y matapos na isang malakas na bomba na naman ang natagpuan ng mga sibilyan sa sentro ng Shariff Aguak, ang kapitolyo ng lalawigan, nitong Sabado ng umaga. Gawa sa mortar bombs na nakakabit sa isang detonator ang naturang pampasabog at itong uri rin ang mga nabawi sa mga nakalipas sa ibat-ibang bahagi ng Maguindanao. Tikom naman ang bibig ng mga opisyal ng 6th Infantry Division at hindi rin nagbigay ng anumang pahayag sa media ukol sa breach sa kanilang security sa Maguindanao na kung saan ay naroon rin ang kampo nito. Maging si Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto ay hindi rin sinasagot ang tawag ng mga manunulat ukol sa kabiguan ng militar na mabigyan ng sapat na proteksyon ang mga sibilyan sa lalawigan.
Wala rin umako sa bigong atake, ngunit sinabi ni Von Al Haq, ang spokesman ng MILF, na sinisipat na nila ang posibleng mga motibo nito. “Nagiimbestiga na kami tungkol diyan at inaalam naman kung may kinalaman ba ito sa peace talks o kung may third party na nais madiskaril ang paguusap. Posible rin na may kaugnayan ito sa pulitika," wika pa ni Al Haq aa panayam ng Mindanao Examiner.
Hindi rin sinagot ni Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu ang kanyang cell phone sa mga tawag ng media upang makunan ng pahayag sa kaguluhan sa kanyang lugar. Ngunit ilang beses na rin itong naging target ng mga pambobomba at madalas nitong sisihin ang kalaban sa pulitika. Maging ang pamunuan ng rehiyon ay wala rin sinabi sa mga nagaganap na karahasan sa Maguindanao.
Ang MILF ay may kasalukuyang peace talks sa pamahalaang Aquino at nitong Oktubre lamang ay lumagda sa isang framework agreement upang mabuo ang Bangsamoro homeland na siyang ipapalit naman sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao na kinabibilangan ng Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu at Tawi-Tawi; at gayiun rin ng lungsod ng Marawi at Lamitan.
(An investigation was launched today by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to discern who is behind the attempted bombings in the province of Maguindanao. This was after a powerful bomb targeting civilians was discovered in the center of Shariff Aguak, the capital of the province, on Saturday morning. Made of mortar bombs attached to a detonator, explosives of this type have been recovered in the past in different parts of Maguindano. 6th Infantry Division officials have not given any statements to the media about the security breach in Maguindanao, which also includes their camp. Even Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto did not answer the calls of journalists about the failure of the military to provide adequate protection for civilians in the province.
Von Al Haq, spokesman of the MILF had no assumptions about the attack and or possible motives. "We will investigate it and determine if a third party is attmepting to derail the peace talks. It could also be related to poltics," said Al Haq in an interview with the Mindanao Examiner.
Maguindanao Gov.Esmael Mangudadatu did not answer his cell phone either in response to media calls on ethe vents in his province. Several times he was (the target of) bombings and he often blamed political opponents. Thus, even the leadership of the region is not well informed about the ongoing violence in Maguindanao.
The MILF is currently engaged in peace talks with the Aquino government and only last October signed a framework agreement to construct the Bangsamoro homeland which in turn would replace the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, which includes Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi- Tawi, and also the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106013054
Isang imbestigasyon ang inilunsad ngayon ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front upang mabatid ang dahilan ay kung sino ang nasa likod ng mga tangkang pambobomba sa lalawigan ng Maguindanao. Ito'y matapos na isang malakas na bomba na naman ang natagpuan ng mga sibilyan sa sentro ng Shariff Aguak, ang kapitolyo ng lalawigan, nitong Sabado ng umaga. Gawa sa mortar bombs na nakakabit sa isang detonator ang naturang pampasabog at itong uri rin ang mga nabawi sa mga nakalipas sa ibat-ibang bahagi ng Maguindanao. Tikom naman ang bibig ng mga opisyal ng 6th Infantry Division at hindi rin nagbigay ng anumang pahayag sa media ukol sa breach sa kanilang security sa Maguindanao na kung saan ay naroon rin ang kampo nito. Maging si Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto ay hindi rin sinasagot ang tawag ng mga manunulat ukol sa kabiguan ng militar na mabigyan ng sapat na proteksyon ang mga sibilyan sa lalawigan.
Wala rin umako sa bigong atake, ngunit sinabi ni Von Al Haq, ang spokesman ng MILF, na sinisipat na nila ang posibleng mga motibo nito. “Nagiimbestiga na kami tungkol diyan at inaalam naman kung may kinalaman ba ito sa peace talks o kung may third party na nais madiskaril ang paguusap. Posible rin na may kaugnayan ito sa pulitika," wika pa ni Al Haq aa panayam ng Mindanao Examiner.
Hindi rin sinagot ni Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu ang kanyang cell phone sa mga tawag ng media upang makunan ng pahayag sa kaguluhan sa kanyang lugar. Ngunit ilang beses na rin itong naging target ng mga pambobomba at madalas nitong sisihin ang kalaban sa pulitika. Maging ang pamunuan ng rehiyon ay wala rin sinabi sa mga nagaganap na karahasan sa Maguindanao.
Ang MILF ay may kasalukuyang peace talks sa pamahalaang Aquino at nitong Oktubre lamang ay lumagda sa isang framework agreement upang mabuo ang Bangsamoro homeland na siyang ipapalit naman sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao na kinabibilangan ng Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu at Tawi-Tawi; at gayiun rin ng lungsod ng Marawi at Lamitan.
(An investigation was launched today by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to discern who is behind the attempted bombings in the province of Maguindanao. This was after a powerful bomb targeting civilians was discovered in the center of Shariff Aguak, the capital of the province, on Saturday morning. Made of mortar bombs attached to a detonator, explosives of this type have been recovered in the past in different parts of Maguindano. 6th Infantry Division officials have not given any statements to the media about the security breach in Maguindanao, which also includes their camp. Even Army spokesman Col. Prudencio Asto did not answer the calls of journalists about the failure of the military to provide adequate protection for civilians in the province.
Von Al Haq, spokesman of the MILF had no assumptions about the attack and or possible motives. "We will investigate it and determine if a third party is attmepting to derail the peace talks. It could also be related to poltics," said Al Haq in an interview with the Mindanao Examiner.
Maguindanao Gov.Esmael Mangudadatu did not answer his cell phone either in response to media calls on ethe vents in his province. Several times he was (the target of) bombings and he often blamed political opponents. Thus, even the leadership of the region is not well informed about the ongoing violence in Maguindanao.
The MILF is currently engaged in peace talks with the Aquino government and only last October signed a framework agreement to construct the Bangsamoro homeland which in turn would replace the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, which includes Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi- Tawi, and also the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106013054
Alleged NPA ambusher, arrested in Ifugao!
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 6): Hinihinalang NPA ambusher, timbog sa Ifugao! (Alleged NPA ambusher, arrested in Ifugao!)
Nadakip ng pulisya ang isa umanong rebeldeng ng New People's Army na nanambang sa 11 sundalo sa bayan ng Tinoc sa Ifugao province. Sinabi ng pulisya na nadakip si Rene Abiva sa kanyang tahanan sa Centro 5 sa Tuguegara City matapos na matunton ito ng mga awtoridad. May warrant of arrest rin na inilabas ang korte laban kay Abiva. Si Abiva ang isa sa mga itinuturong nasa likod ng ambush na naganap nuong Abril ng nakaraang taon na kung saan ay ilang sibilyan rin ang nasawi at maraming sundalo ang sugatan......
(Police arrested an alleged New People's Army rebel who ambushed 11 soldiers at Tinoc town in Ifugao province. Police said Rene Abiva was arrested at his home in Centro 5 Tuguegara City after the authorities located it. There was an arrest warrant from the court against Abiva. Abiva was one of those behind the ambush that occurred in April last year in which several civilians were killed and many soldiers were wounded.....
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106055033
Nadakip ng pulisya ang isa umanong rebeldeng ng New People's Army na nanambang sa 11 sundalo sa bayan ng Tinoc sa Ifugao province. Sinabi ng pulisya na nadakip si Rene Abiva sa kanyang tahanan sa Centro 5 sa Tuguegara City matapos na matunton ito ng mga awtoridad. May warrant of arrest rin na inilabas ang korte laban kay Abiva. Si Abiva ang isa sa mga itinuturong nasa likod ng ambush na naganap nuong Abril ng nakaraang taon na kung saan ay ilang sibilyan rin ang nasawi at maraming sundalo ang sugatan......
(Police arrested an alleged New People's Army rebel who ambushed 11 soldiers at Tinoc town in Ifugao province. Police said Rene Abiva was arrested at his home in Centro 5 Tuguegara City after the authorities located it. There was an arrest warrant from the court against Abiva. Abiva was one of those behind the ambush that occurred in April last year in which several civilians were killed and many soldiers were wounded.....
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130106055033
ILPS: Best Wishes for the New Year
Statement from the Office of the Chairperson, International League of Peoples Struggles posted to the Website of Jose Maria Sison (Jan 1): Best Wishes for the New Year
http://www.josemariasison.org/
http://www.josemariasison.org/
CPP: NPA not behind Ligao ambush against CAFGU
Posted to the PRWC Blog (Jan 6): NPA
not behind Ligao ambush against CAFGU
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today clarified that no unit of the New People's Army (NPA) was involved in the the ambush against an element of the Citizens' Armed Force Georgraphic Unit (CAFGU) last January 2 in Albay. Arnel Yuson, a CAFGU member and his wife Sarah Jane were traversing the road in Sitio Abulan, Barangay Oma-oma, Ligao City when ambushed by unidentified men. Sarah Jane was killed in the incident. The AFP immediately accused the NPA of staging the ambush and denounced it as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.
According to the Santos Binamira Command of the NPA in Albay, they are looking into the possibility that the elements of the 2nd IBPA were themselves involved in the ambush as their detachment was located less than a kilometer away from the site of the incident. The CPP asserted that units of the NPA and people's militias are strictly complying with the ceasefire declaration of the CPP Central Committee which has been reextended to January 15, in support of the resumption of peace negotiations between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH).
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2013/01/npa-not-behind-ligao-ambush-against.html
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today clarified that no unit of the New People's Army (NPA) was involved in the the ambush against an element of the Citizens' Armed Force Georgraphic Unit (CAFGU) last January 2 in Albay. Arnel Yuson, a CAFGU member and his wife Sarah Jane were traversing the road in Sitio Abulan, Barangay Oma-oma, Ligao City when ambushed by unidentified men. Sarah Jane was killed in the incident. The AFP immediately accused the NPA of staging the ambush and denounced it as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.
According to the Santos Binamira Command of the NPA in Albay, they are looking into the possibility that the elements of the 2nd IBPA were themselves involved in the ambush as their detachment was located less than a kilometer away from the site of the incident. The CPP asserted that units of the NPA and people's militias are strictly complying with the ceasefire declaration of the CPP Central Committee which has been reextended to January 15, in support of the resumption of peace negotiations between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH).
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2013/01/npa-not-behind-ligao-ambush-against.html
CPP: Condemn widespread offensives and deployment of troops by AFP amid ceasefire
Posted to the PRWC Blog (Jan 6): Condemn
widespread offensives and deployment of troops by AFP amid ceasefire
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) condemns the Aquino regime for carrying out widespread offensives and deployment of its armed troops against the revolutionary base areas and the New People's Army amid the synchronized temporary ceasefire between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH).
Based on reports from field commands of the New People's Army, there is now an emerging a pattern of forward deployment of troops by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and police special forces in apparent preparation for an all-out offensive after the expiration of the ceasefire agreement by January 15.
The CPP denounces the duplicitous statements of Malacañang and the AFP that claim commitment to the synchronized temporary ceasefire agreement even as offensive operations under the guise of so-called "peace and order" operations are being carried out. (Refer to the updated report below.) The AFP is obviously taking advantage of the ceasefire to carry out widespread and large-scale operations with impunity, knowing full well that units of the NPA are restraining themselves from carrying out counterstrikes in compliance with the temporary ceasefire agreement.
The continued combat operations, forward deployment of troops, militarization and stepped-up intelligence operations in rural communities all form part of the heightened counterrevolutionary offensives of the Aquino regime this year. This is all part of its Oplan Bayanihan war campaign to decimate the New People's Army by the middle of this year, and transfer so-called counter-insurgency operations from the AFP to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In stark contrast to the all-out disregard of the AFP of the synchronized temporary ceasefire, units of the New People's Army and people's militias are strictly complying with the Central Committee's order to cease and desist from carrying out offensive operations. The allegations of NPA violations of the CPP's ceasefire declaration are all baseless and concoctions of the AFP's US-directed spinmeisters. (See related statement.)
Updated report of AFP offensive operations in disregard of synchronized ceasefire agreement:
1. Since December, elements of the 57th and 40th IB have been scouring the villages of Old Bulatukan, New Israel and Biangan, all in Makilala, North Cotabato and have put up two batteries of 105 howitzer canons against NPA Guerrilla Fronts 51 and 72.
2. The 10th ID deployed three sections of soldiers in every barangay between Mapula to Barko-barko, Lumiad to Riverside and in Pandaitan, all in Paquibato district, Davao City.
3. The 10th ID set up checkpoints along roads leading to Paquibato district to deter visitors from attending the mass assembly scheduled to mark the CPP anniversary last December 26.
4. Elements of the 69th IB and 84th IB continue to intimidate residents of Purok Isled, Barangay Damilag in Calinan, Davao City in order to force them to report the whereabouts of the local NPA units.
5. Elements of the 74th IB arrested last December 21 five local peasants in Mulanay, Quezon and accused them of being members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
6. Elements of the 302nd Brigade and local police forces arrested last December 25 in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, Oligario Sebas, whom the military claims to be Filemon Mendrez, allegedly a ranking revolutionary leader.
7. Elements of the Cagayan Valley Regional PNP arrested last December 28 in Bagumbayan, Tuguegarao City Rene Esmondo Abiva whom the military also alleges to be a revolutionary leader.
8. On January 1, three platoons of the 84th IB entered Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District, Davao City and began carrying out military operations in the area. Further augmented by other troops on January 3, the 84th IB has forced the evacuation of some 125 families, restricted work in plantations and controlled the movement of rice and other food supplies in the area.
9. Hours before December 16, at the start of the Aquino regime's ceasefire declaration, a platoon of the 31st Infantry Battalion clandestinely entered Barangay Hamorawon, Bulan, Sorsogon. For several days, it scoured the mountainous areas up to the border of the towns of Bulan and Irosin, before eventually returning to their camp.
10. Elements of the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion (formerly Regional Mobile Group o RMG) conducted combat operations in Barangay Macahoy, San Pascual, Masbate on December 24 and 25. On December 28 and 29, these troops raided the home of a peasant family in Barangay Mabini suspected of being active in the revolutionary movement.
11. On December 23, elements of the PNP in Milagros, Masabate City and troops of the 9th Infantry Battalion abducted Olalio Gonzaga, 22, of Barangay Bolo, Masbate City and Noel Espinosa, 37, a village watchman in Barangay Miabas, Palanas, Masbate.
12. On January 2, elements of the 2nd IBPA entered Barangay Sta. Cruz, Donsol, Sorsogon, and launched combat operations against the New People's Army and revolutionary mass organizations in the area.
13. Intelligence and psywar operations continue to be conducted by the so-called "peace and development teams" of the AFP in roughly 40 barangays in the Bicol region.
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2013/01/condemn-widespread-offensives-and.html
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) condemns the Aquino regime for carrying out widespread offensives and deployment of its armed troops against the revolutionary base areas and the New People's Army amid the synchronized temporary ceasefire between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH).
Based on reports from field commands of the New People's Army, there is now an emerging a pattern of forward deployment of troops by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and police special forces in apparent preparation for an all-out offensive after the expiration of the ceasefire agreement by January 15.
The CPP denounces the duplicitous statements of Malacañang and the AFP that claim commitment to the synchronized temporary ceasefire agreement even as offensive operations under the guise of so-called "peace and order" operations are being carried out. (Refer to the updated report below.) The AFP is obviously taking advantage of the ceasefire to carry out widespread and large-scale operations with impunity, knowing full well that units of the NPA are restraining themselves from carrying out counterstrikes in compliance with the temporary ceasefire agreement.
The continued combat operations, forward deployment of troops, militarization and stepped-up intelligence operations in rural communities all form part of the heightened counterrevolutionary offensives of the Aquino regime this year. This is all part of its Oplan Bayanihan war campaign to decimate the New People's Army by the middle of this year, and transfer so-called counter-insurgency operations from the AFP to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In stark contrast to the all-out disregard of the AFP of the synchronized temporary ceasefire, units of the New People's Army and people's militias are strictly complying with the Central Committee's order to cease and desist from carrying out offensive operations. The allegations of NPA violations of the CPP's ceasefire declaration are all baseless and concoctions of the AFP's US-directed spinmeisters. (See related statement.)
Updated report of AFP offensive operations in disregard of synchronized ceasefire agreement:
1. Since December, elements of the 57th and 40th IB have been scouring the villages of Old Bulatukan, New Israel and Biangan, all in Makilala, North Cotabato and have put up two batteries of 105 howitzer canons against NPA Guerrilla Fronts 51 and 72.
2. The 10th ID deployed three sections of soldiers in every barangay between Mapula to Barko-barko, Lumiad to Riverside and in Pandaitan, all in Paquibato district, Davao City.
3. The 10th ID set up checkpoints along roads leading to Paquibato district to deter visitors from attending the mass assembly scheduled to mark the CPP anniversary last December 26.
4. Elements of the 69th IB and 84th IB continue to intimidate residents of Purok Isled, Barangay Damilag in Calinan, Davao City in order to force them to report the whereabouts of the local NPA units.
5. Elements of the 74th IB arrested last December 21 five local peasants in Mulanay, Quezon and accused them of being members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
6. Elements of the 302nd Brigade and local police forces arrested last December 25 in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, Oligario Sebas, whom the military claims to be Filemon Mendrez, allegedly a ranking revolutionary leader.
7. Elements of the Cagayan Valley Regional PNP arrested last December 28 in Bagumbayan, Tuguegarao City Rene Esmondo Abiva whom the military also alleges to be a revolutionary leader.
8. On January 1, three platoons of the 84th IB entered Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District, Davao City and began carrying out military operations in the area. Further augmented by other troops on January 3, the 84th IB has forced the evacuation of some 125 families, restricted work in plantations and controlled the movement of rice and other food supplies in the area.
9. Hours before December 16, at the start of the Aquino regime's ceasefire declaration, a platoon of the 31st Infantry Battalion clandestinely entered Barangay Hamorawon, Bulan, Sorsogon. For several days, it scoured the mountainous areas up to the border of the towns of Bulan and Irosin, before eventually returning to their camp.
10. Elements of the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion (formerly Regional Mobile Group o RMG) conducted combat operations in Barangay Macahoy, San Pascual, Masbate on December 24 and 25. On December 28 and 29, these troops raided the home of a peasant family in Barangay Mabini suspected of being active in the revolutionary movement.
11. On December 23, elements of the PNP in Milagros, Masabate City and troops of the 9th Infantry Battalion abducted Olalio Gonzaga, 22, of Barangay Bolo, Masbate City and Noel Espinosa, 37, a village watchman in Barangay Miabas, Palanas, Masbate.
12. On January 2, elements of the 2nd IBPA entered Barangay Sta. Cruz, Donsol, Sorsogon, and launched combat operations against the New People's Army and revolutionary mass organizations in the area.
13. Intelligence and psywar operations continue to be conducted by the so-called "peace and development teams" of the AFP in roughly 40 barangays in the Bicol region.
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2013/01/condemn-widespread-offensives-and.html
China gov’t invests $1.6B to beef up Spratlys claim
From the Daily Tribune (Jan 6): China gov’t invests $1.6B to beef up Spratlys claim
China is infusing nearly $1.6 billion into Sansha City of Hainan province in what is being viewed as efforts to bolster its claim to the contested Spratly islands that the Chinese government earlier had placed under the jurisdiction of the Hainan provincial government which passed new regulations recently allowing its local police “to board, seize and expel foreign ships.” The official state publication China Daily said the huge investment will be used to develop infrastructure, including air and sea ports of the city, which is located in the Paracels which is being claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier had lodged an official protest with China over the establishment of Sansha City that covers parts of the Spratlys that the Philippines claims as part of its territory. Last week, Chinese military forces also held air and ground defense drills in Sansha City which the DFA also protested. “No military activities shall be undertaken by any country within the Philippine maritime and territorial jurisdiction without the consent and authority by the Philippine government,” DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a statement.
Citing information from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the South Chiana Morning Post said drills were held on Jan. 2 in Sansha City in the Paracels, the city of Shenyang in northeast China’s Liaoning province and Jinan, the capital city of the eastern Chinese province of Shandong. The PLA said drills were also held on New Year’s Day in the city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang, also a province in eastern China. The exercises were aimed at “enhancing soldiers’ combat consciousness and capabilities” in the event of a surprise attack, a Chinese government statement said. Some 1,000 civilians and 6,000 Chinese troops are stationed as “permanent residents” in Sansha City, established in June last year as a Hainan prefecture to exercise administrative powers over all of the Spratlys islands.
Amid China’s increasingly aggressive stance on the territorial disputes, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida indicated plans to visit the Philippines this month on his first trip abroad as foreign minister supposedly to strengthen Japan’s ties with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). China is pushing its claims to the Japanese-administered Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, which China calls the Diaoyus. Kishida is expected to discuss bilateral cooperation in maritime security, including possible supply of coast guard vessels to the country.
The year 2013 marks the 40th anniversary of the beginning of exchanges between Japan and Asean, with a special summit of the heads of the 10 Asean members being planned in Japan in December for the first time in a decade.
Japan also scrambled fighter jets yesterday to head off a Chinese state-owned plane that flew near the disputed islands, a Japanese Defense Ministry spokesman said. The Japanese jets were mobilised after a Chinese maritime aircraft ventured some 120 kilometers north of Senkaku islands at around 12 p.m. (0300 GMT), the spokesman said. The Chinese Y-12 twin-turboprop later left the zone without entering Japanese airspace over the islands, he added. It was the first time Japanese fighter jets had been scrambled this year to counter Chinese aircraft approaching the islands, the spokesman said. Japan dispatched fighter jets last month after a Chinese state-owned plane breached airspace over the islands, while Chinese government ships have moved in and out of waters there for the past few months.
The confrontations have become commonplace since Japan nationalised the East China Sea islands in September, a move it insisted amounted to nothing more than a change of ownership of what was already Japanese territory. But Beijing reacted with fury, with observers saying riots that erupted across China in the weeks following had at least tacit government backing.
The Kyodo news agency reported that Tokyo is considering introducing US spy drones to boost surveillance of its territorial waters near the Senkaku islands. The Japanese defense ministry hopes to introduce the unmanned Global Hawk aircraft by 2015 “in a bid to counter China’s growing assertiveness at sea, especially when it comes to the Senkaku Islands”, the news agency said, citing unnamed government officials.
The development of roads, water supply and drainage systems will be stepped-up in the new “capital” city of Sansha on Yongxing, one of the islands that make up the disputed Paracel chain, Luo Baoming, Communist Party secretary of southern Hainan Province had said. Luo also said steps will also be taken to enforce China’s “legal rights” in the region, which includes other island chains which are the subject of competing claims by Asian countries.
Beijing enraged Vietnam and caused concern in Washington when it announced the establishment of a new city and military garrison at Sansha in July. The island, under the control of Hainan Province, will have administrative control over a region that encompasses not only the Paracels, but Macclesfield Bank, a largely sunken atoll to the east, and the Spratly Islands to the south. The sovereignty of each remains a matter of dispute. “To safeguard our legal rights in the South China Sea, we are now coordinating between the relevant departments in order to set a more unified, and efficient law enforcing body,” Luo said. Domestic media reported in August that work had begun on sewage disposal and waste collection facilities for the island’s roughly 1,000 residents.
Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, which is home to vital shipping lanes and substantial proven and estimated oil and gas deposits. Taiwan and Asean members the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei and Malaysia all have rival claims on areas of the sea, while the United States is also watching China’s increased assertiveness closely.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/headlines/item/8792-china-gov’t-invests-$16b-to-beef-up-spratlys-claim
China is infusing nearly $1.6 billion into Sansha City of Hainan province in what is being viewed as efforts to bolster its claim to the contested Spratly islands that the Chinese government earlier had placed under the jurisdiction of the Hainan provincial government which passed new regulations recently allowing its local police “to board, seize and expel foreign ships.” The official state publication China Daily said the huge investment will be used to develop infrastructure, including air and sea ports of the city, which is located in the Paracels which is being claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier had lodged an official protest with China over the establishment of Sansha City that covers parts of the Spratlys that the Philippines claims as part of its territory. Last week, Chinese military forces also held air and ground defense drills in Sansha City which the DFA also protested. “No military activities shall be undertaken by any country within the Philippine maritime and territorial jurisdiction without the consent and authority by the Philippine government,” DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a statement.
Citing information from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the South Chiana Morning Post said drills were held on Jan. 2 in Sansha City in the Paracels, the city of Shenyang in northeast China’s Liaoning province and Jinan, the capital city of the eastern Chinese province of Shandong. The PLA said drills were also held on New Year’s Day in the city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang, also a province in eastern China. The exercises were aimed at “enhancing soldiers’ combat consciousness and capabilities” in the event of a surprise attack, a Chinese government statement said. Some 1,000 civilians and 6,000 Chinese troops are stationed as “permanent residents” in Sansha City, established in June last year as a Hainan prefecture to exercise administrative powers over all of the Spratlys islands.
Amid China’s increasingly aggressive stance on the territorial disputes, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida indicated plans to visit the Philippines this month on his first trip abroad as foreign minister supposedly to strengthen Japan’s ties with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). China is pushing its claims to the Japanese-administered Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, which China calls the Diaoyus. Kishida is expected to discuss bilateral cooperation in maritime security, including possible supply of coast guard vessels to the country.
The year 2013 marks the 40th anniversary of the beginning of exchanges between Japan and Asean, with a special summit of the heads of the 10 Asean members being planned in Japan in December for the first time in a decade.
Japan also scrambled fighter jets yesterday to head off a Chinese state-owned plane that flew near the disputed islands, a Japanese Defense Ministry spokesman said. The Japanese jets were mobilised after a Chinese maritime aircraft ventured some 120 kilometers north of Senkaku islands at around 12 p.m. (0300 GMT), the spokesman said. The Chinese Y-12 twin-turboprop later left the zone without entering Japanese airspace over the islands, he added. It was the first time Japanese fighter jets had been scrambled this year to counter Chinese aircraft approaching the islands, the spokesman said. Japan dispatched fighter jets last month after a Chinese state-owned plane breached airspace over the islands, while Chinese government ships have moved in and out of waters there for the past few months.
The confrontations have become commonplace since Japan nationalised the East China Sea islands in September, a move it insisted amounted to nothing more than a change of ownership of what was already Japanese territory. But Beijing reacted with fury, with observers saying riots that erupted across China in the weeks following had at least tacit government backing.
The Kyodo news agency reported that Tokyo is considering introducing US spy drones to boost surveillance of its territorial waters near the Senkaku islands. The Japanese defense ministry hopes to introduce the unmanned Global Hawk aircraft by 2015 “in a bid to counter China’s growing assertiveness at sea, especially when it comes to the Senkaku Islands”, the news agency said, citing unnamed government officials.
The development of roads, water supply and drainage systems will be stepped-up in the new “capital” city of Sansha on Yongxing, one of the islands that make up the disputed Paracel chain, Luo Baoming, Communist Party secretary of southern Hainan Province had said. Luo also said steps will also be taken to enforce China’s “legal rights” in the region, which includes other island chains which are the subject of competing claims by Asian countries.
Beijing enraged Vietnam and caused concern in Washington when it announced the establishment of a new city and military garrison at Sansha in July. The island, under the control of Hainan Province, will have administrative control over a region that encompasses not only the Paracels, but Macclesfield Bank, a largely sunken atoll to the east, and the Spratly Islands to the south. The sovereignty of each remains a matter of dispute. “To safeguard our legal rights in the South China Sea, we are now coordinating between the relevant departments in order to set a more unified, and efficient law enforcing body,” Luo said. Domestic media reported in August that work had begun on sewage disposal and waste collection facilities for the island’s roughly 1,000 residents.
Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, which is home to vital shipping lanes and substantial proven and estimated oil and gas deposits. Taiwan and Asean members the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei and Malaysia all have rival claims on areas of the sea, while the United States is also watching China’s increased assertiveness closely.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/headlines/item/8792-china-gov’t-invests-$16b-to-beef-up-spratlys-claim
DND submits shortlist for next AFP chief
From the Philippine Star (Jan 6): DND
submits shortlist for next AFP chief
The Department of National Defense (DND) has submitted to President Aquino the shortlist of candidates for the next Armed Forces chief. The list contains four names of senior military officers: Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Philippine Air Force (PAF) chief Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino de la Cruz, AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes and Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) head Maj. Gen. Alan Luga.
Meanwhile, military insiders informed The STAR yesterday that President Aquino met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at Daza Park in Camp Aguinaldo last Friday to tackle major changes in the military leadership once AFP chief Gen. Jessie Dellosa retires on his 56th birthday on Jan. 20. “For all we know, the President may have chosen Dellosa’s replacement last Friday evening,” a source told The STAR.
Gazmin earlier told Camp Aguinaldo reporters that he was scheduled to meet with Aquino to discuss Dellosa’s replacement. The defense chief said that all senior military officers were being considered for the top AFP post. But after a series of deliberations, top defense and military officials decided to cut short the long list of candidates for the top AFP post to four and forwarded this to the Palace.
Of the four candidates, Bautista and De la Cruz are reportedly leading the race. Bautista belongs to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1981 while De la Cruz is a member of PMA Class 1980. Coballes also belongs to PMA Class 1980 while Luga is from Class 1981. Bautista and De la Cruz are reportedly backed by influential lobby groups.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/01/06/893759/dnd-submits-shortlist-next-afp-chief
The Department of National Defense (DND) has submitted to President Aquino the shortlist of candidates for the next Armed Forces chief. The list contains four names of senior military officers: Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Philippine Air Force (PAF) chief Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino de la Cruz, AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes and Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) head Maj. Gen. Alan Luga.
Meanwhile, military insiders informed The STAR yesterday that President Aquino met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at Daza Park in Camp Aguinaldo last Friday to tackle major changes in the military leadership once AFP chief Gen. Jessie Dellosa retires on his 56th birthday on Jan. 20. “For all we know, the President may have chosen Dellosa’s replacement last Friday evening,” a source told The STAR.
Gazmin earlier told Camp Aguinaldo reporters that he was scheduled to meet with Aquino to discuss Dellosa’s replacement. The defense chief said that all senior military officers were being considered for the top AFP post. But after a series of deliberations, top defense and military officials decided to cut short the long list of candidates for the top AFP post to four and forwarded this to the Palace.
Of the four candidates, Bautista and De la Cruz are reportedly leading the race. Bautista belongs to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1981 while De la Cruz is a member of PMA Class 1980. Coballes also belongs to PMA Class 1980 while Luga is from Class 1981. Bautista and De la Cruz are reportedly backed by influential lobby groups.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/01/06/893759/dnd-submits-shortlist-next-afp-chief
Troops kill 13 suspects in clash
From the Philippine Star (Jan 6): Troops kill 13 suspects in clash
Officials say army troops and police have killed 13 suspected criminals in a fierce gunbattle that also wounded a police officer in a coastal town southeast of Manila. Army Lt. Col. Monico Abang says the gunmen aboard two black SUVs opened fire on about 50 police and army special forces troops when they were flagged down Sunday afternoon at a highway checkpoint in Atimonan town in Quezon province, sparking the firefight. Abang, who led the army troops, tells The Associated Press that gunmen from a third van also opened fire but managed to turn around and escape. Quezon provincial police chief Valeriano de Leon says 11 gunmen died in the scene of the clash. Two others died while being brought to a hospital.
http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2013/01/06/893977/troops-kill-13-suspects-clash
Officials say army troops and police have killed 13 suspected criminals in a fierce gunbattle that also wounded a police officer in a coastal town southeast of Manila. Army Lt. Col. Monico Abang says the gunmen aboard two black SUVs opened fire on about 50 police and army special forces troops when they were flagged down Sunday afternoon at a highway checkpoint in Atimonan town in Quezon province, sparking the firefight. Abang, who led the army troops, tells The Associated Press that gunmen from a third van also opened fire but managed to turn around and escape. Quezon provincial police chief Valeriano de Leon says 11 gunmen died in the scene of the clash. Two others died while being brought to a hospital.
http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2013/01/06/893977/troops-kill-13-suspects-clash
DSWD finishes 2012 with 99% Kalahi-CIDSS fund utilization
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 6): DSWD finishes 2012 with 99% Kalahi-CIDSS fund utilization
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Caraga closed the year 2012 with a near-perfect fund utilization for its anti-poverty project called Kalahi-CIDSS. This was learned during the project’s year-end assessment and evaluation meeting last December. A total of P135,771,894.53 was utilized by beneficiary communities from the P136,979,959.78 that was released and downloaded directly to community accounts. “We were projecting a hundred percent fund disbursement at the start of 2012 but with the variety of sub-projects the communities are implementing, there are those that need facilitating payment of contract works,” Mita G. Lim said, DSWD Caraga assistant regional director for operation and project manager.
With this accomplishment, the regional project management office of Kalahi-CIDSS is shifting to full gear as barangays are getting ready for the completion of their respective sub-projects or infrastructures for proper turn over in the first quarter of 2013. The year 2012 saw three “phases” of Kalahi-CIDSS implemented in 139 barangays in 16 municipalities in the region. Lim added that 139 sub-projects or infrastructures are almost ready to be inaugurated and be accessed by both volunteers and community residents once the remaining funds are fully utilized and closing of community accounts are facilitated.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1701357300864
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Caraga closed the year 2012 with a near-perfect fund utilization for its anti-poverty project called Kalahi-CIDSS. This was learned during the project’s year-end assessment and evaluation meeting last December. A total of P135,771,894.53 was utilized by beneficiary communities from the P136,979,959.78 that was released and downloaded directly to community accounts. “We were projecting a hundred percent fund disbursement at the start of 2012 but with the variety of sub-projects the communities are implementing, there are those that need facilitating payment of contract works,” Mita G. Lim said, DSWD Caraga assistant regional director for operation and project manager.
With this accomplishment, the regional project management office of Kalahi-CIDSS is shifting to full gear as barangays are getting ready for the completion of their respective sub-projects or infrastructures for proper turn over in the first quarter of 2013. The year 2012 saw three “phases” of Kalahi-CIDSS implemented in 139 barangays in 16 municipalities in the region. Lim added that 139 sub-projects or infrastructures are almost ready to be inaugurated and be accessed by both volunteers and community residents once the remaining funds are fully utilized and closing of community accounts are facilitated.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1701357300864
Bomb experts defuse IED found near Kidapawan police station
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6): Bomb experts defuse IED found near
Kidapawan police station
Bomb experts defused an improvised explosive device (IED) the police recovered at the back of their headquarters along Jose P. Laurel St., here, around 11:30 a.m., Sunday. Operatives of the Army’s 63rd Explosives and Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Team used a ball-charged disruptor to defuse the IED. The EOD said the bomb used two 60-mm mortars attached to each other as main charge. A detonating cord was tied to it and the mobile phone as triggering device.
After the disruption, the EOD team, including the Scene of the Crimes Operatives (SOCO) in North Cotabato, are still in search of the blasting cap. The blasting cap, according to them, is important to determine if the explosive is set to ignite or not. The IED recovery took place two days after the turnover of new police command in Kidapawan City.
On Friday, Supt. Renante Cabico relinquished his post to Supt. Joseph Semillano, former Midsayap municipal police station, as the new city police director. The turnover was witnessed by Sr. Supt. Danny Peralta, new Cotabato provincial police director.
The incident also happened while the culmination of the three-day city sports meet is ongoing at the Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School, which is just a block away from the police station. Authorities have yet to know if the latest IED recovery in Kidapawan City is, in a way, connected to the bomb attacks in nearby Tacurong City and Isulan in Sultan Kudarat.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=484830
Bomb experts defused an improvised explosive device (IED) the police recovered at the back of their headquarters along Jose P. Laurel St., here, around 11:30 a.m., Sunday. Operatives of the Army’s 63rd Explosives and Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Team used a ball-charged disruptor to defuse the IED. The EOD said the bomb used two 60-mm mortars attached to each other as main charge. A detonating cord was tied to it and the mobile phone as triggering device.
After the disruption, the EOD team, including the Scene of the Crimes Operatives (SOCO) in North Cotabato, are still in search of the blasting cap. The blasting cap, according to them, is important to determine if the explosive is set to ignite or not. The IED recovery took place two days after the turnover of new police command in Kidapawan City.
On Friday, Supt. Renante Cabico relinquished his post to Supt. Joseph Semillano, former Midsayap municipal police station, as the new city police director. The turnover was witnessed by Sr. Supt. Danny Peralta, new Cotabato provincial police director.
The incident also happened while the culmination of the three-day city sports meet is ongoing at the Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School, which is just a block away from the police station. Authorities have yet to know if the latest IED recovery in Kidapawan City is, in a way, connected to the bomb attacks in nearby Tacurong City and Isulan in Sultan Kudarat.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=484830