From MindaNews (Jan 21): 9 injured in Iligan blast
An improvised explosive device (IED) believed attached to a bicycle exploded at downtown Iligan City Monday morning, injuring nine persons, including a 10-year old wash-your-car boy, a police official said. Supt. Ronnie Francis Cariaga, Philippine National Police-Northern Mindanao spokesperson, said the IED exploded near the M Lhuiller and Susana pawnshops located along Mercado Street at around 10:05 a.m.
The bomb exploded as people started coming in to buy goods at the nearby public market, he said. Bomb experts have yet to determine the materials composing the explosive device, Cariaga said. “There are witnesses who told police they saw a man parked the bicycle beside a car and hurriedly left,” he said.
The explosion shattered the glass door of M Lhuiller pawnshop and also blew the windshield and tires of the car, reports said.
“Our initial theory was that the explosive was command-detonated but it was not very powerful, based on the extent of the damage,” said Col. Ricardo Jalad, commanding officer of the Army 2nd Mechanized Brigade.
The blast victims were rushed to the Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital but were released later after minor treatment of their injuries. They were identified as Mark Asilo, 27; Charlie Florida, 32; Rowena Ronda, 46; Raul Padilla, 48; Roel Asero, 33; H. Manan Rocayma, 28; Socorro Alquiza, 70 and a certain Erwin Bensal. The 10-year old boy was identified as Ryan Disomimba Mohammad.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2013/01/21/9-injured-in-iligan-blast/
Monday, January 21, 2013
For this week’s GPH-MILF talks, Iqbal says finish at least 2 of 4 annexes
From MindaNews (Jan 21): For this week’s GPH-MILF talks, Iqbal says finish at least 2 of 4 annexes
Apparently convinced they will not be able to finish all four annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) in this week’s peace talks in Kuala Lumpur, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal says he hopes “we can settle at least two of the Annexes.” “The challenge before us now is to come up with results. If we cannot finish all the Annexes, at least we can settle at least two of the Annexes. I am looking at Power-sharing and Modalities and Arrangement Annexes as possible areas of breakthrough,” Iqbal said in his opening statement at the resumption of the peace talks today at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
“Any failure is not good for all of us especially to the party that appears unreasonable or recalcitrant,” Iqbal said in his statement, a copy of which was emailed to MindaNews, explaining that the eyes of the public and the international community “are staring at us intently.”
As agreed upon in the FAB, the two panels were supposed to have completed by December 31, 2012 the annexes on Power-sharing, Wealth-sharing, Normalization, and Transitional Arrangements and Modalities, to complete the comprehensive peace pact.
The panels ended their December talks with no joint statement and no date for resumption of talks. In her New Year’s message, GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said she was optimistic “it should not take more than two months to finish the four annexes.” By then, Ferrer said, the 15-member Transition Commission (TransCom) “should have been fully organized and ready to build on the terms laid out by the Panels in the Annexes.” “The future is on track,” she said .
Minutest details
In her opening statement, a copy of which was sent to MindaNews by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), Ferrer said, “expect that we will get worked up in the minutest details. Expect that we will once again tangle with words and ruffle emotions.”
But Ferrer said the goals remain the same: “to establish a Bangsamoro government that will enjoy the blessings of meaningful political and fiscal autonomy; to get to this end through a peaceful transition that will enable the MILF to test and prove its brand of leadership, jumpstart the socio-economic development in the communities, and forever still the guns in the erstwhile conflict-affected region; and to achieve healing, reconstruction and the human security of the peoples, groups and sectors in the region.”
She said skeptics have asked them “what makes you so sure that this time around it will be different? That not another armed group will arise asking for the same things. That governance will be better and not worse.”
“We tell them: we do not have all the answers, but we have to try. The alternative is to be left with the status quo that is unacceptable,” she said, emphasizing that this time, “our aim is transformation and empowerment, not patronage. The new institutions shall be inclusive. There shall be transparency.”
“We have all learned from the lessons of the past,” said Ferrer, the first woman to head the government peace panel negotiating with the Bangsamoro. Ferrer assured that the GPH panel has “no other interest” than to complete the annexes. “We are not politicians. Our task is to assist the President realize his vision of peace and progress for Mindanao where the MILF is a trustworthy partner,” she said.
Comprehensive pact
The four annexes and the FAB are to form the comprehensive peace pact. Signed on October 15 last year, the FAB provides for the creation of the Bangsamoro, a new autonomous political entity that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by June 30, 2016.
President Aquino on December 18 signed Executive Order 120 creating the TransCom that would prepare the groundwork for the setting up of the Bangsamoro. The House of Representatives and Senate passed resolutions in support of the EO, before both houses went on Christmas break. The TransCom’s main task is to draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law. The President has yet to name the 15-member TransCom, eight of whom would be from the MILF and seven from the GPH.
Delays
Iqbal said the annexes have not been completed because the issues are “simply hard and contentious.” But Iqbal said there are other reasons. He said he has “great reservations on the current manner and rate we are conducting ourselves in the recent talks,” that there are “many refrains, like a song, that should not have obstructed our way or discussed at all.”
He pointed to the concepts already agreed upon in previous signed documents or already earlier given to the ARMM. “They should not consume our time and effort, or tax the goodwill of the parties. These things should not be offered again and again. These are settled issues and are given,” he said.
In the Wealth-Sharing annex, Iqbal said the technical working groups “continue to lock up horns on the current dismal financial status of the ARMM and the perceived incapacity of any new Bangsamoro entity to rise above this pathetic situation especially in relation to administering the taxes especially the base and collection.”
“It appears that the parties cannot agree that the issue should be appreciated first in terms oprinciples and concepts (i.e., fiscal autonomy for the new entity), the power to tax which must be devolved to it in order to be able to stand on its feet, sharing of revenues and resources, and then the administrative or implementation aspect of whether or not the new entity is capable of. If it is capable, then let it do the tasks immediately, if not, then the parties can agree on the timetable,” he said.
He urged the GPH panel to “ maximize their offer to the Bangsamoro people through this peace process,” adding that “any diluted offer is only slowing down the process. It is not helping us in any way.”
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2013/01/21/for-this-weeks-gph-milf-talks-iqbal-says-finish-at-least-2-of-4-annexes/
Apparently convinced they will not be able to finish all four annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) in this week’s peace talks in Kuala Lumpur, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal says he hopes “we can settle at least two of the Annexes.” “The challenge before us now is to come up with results. If we cannot finish all the Annexes, at least we can settle at least two of the Annexes. I am looking at Power-sharing and Modalities and Arrangement Annexes as possible areas of breakthrough,” Iqbal said in his opening statement at the resumption of the peace talks today at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
“Any failure is not good for all of us especially to the party that appears unreasonable or recalcitrant,” Iqbal said in his statement, a copy of which was emailed to MindaNews, explaining that the eyes of the public and the international community “are staring at us intently.”
As agreed upon in the FAB, the two panels were supposed to have completed by December 31, 2012 the annexes on Power-sharing, Wealth-sharing, Normalization, and Transitional Arrangements and Modalities, to complete the comprehensive peace pact.
The panels ended their December talks with no joint statement and no date for resumption of talks. In her New Year’s message, GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said she was optimistic “it should not take more than two months to finish the four annexes.” By then, Ferrer said, the 15-member Transition Commission (TransCom) “should have been fully organized and ready to build on the terms laid out by the Panels in the Annexes.” “The future is on track,” she said .
Minutest details
In her opening statement, a copy of which was sent to MindaNews by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), Ferrer said, “expect that we will get worked up in the minutest details. Expect that we will once again tangle with words and ruffle emotions.”
But Ferrer said the goals remain the same: “to establish a Bangsamoro government that will enjoy the blessings of meaningful political and fiscal autonomy; to get to this end through a peaceful transition that will enable the MILF to test and prove its brand of leadership, jumpstart the socio-economic development in the communities, and forever still the guns in the erstwhile conflict-affected region; and to achieve healing, reconstruction and the human security of the peoples, groups and sectors in the region.”
She said skeptics have asked them “what makes you so sure that this time around it will be different? That not another armed group will arise asking for the same things. That governance will be better and not worse.”
“We tell them: we do not have all the answers, but we have to try. The alternative is to be left with the status quo that is unacceptable,” she said, emphasizing that this time, “our aim is transformation and empowerment, not patronage. The new institutions shall be inclusive. There shall be transparency.”
“We have all learned from the lessons of the past,” said Ferrer, the first woman to head the government peace panel negotiating with the Bangsamoro. Ferrer assured that the GPH panel has “no other interest” than to complete the annexes. “We are not politicians. Our task is to assist the President realize his vision of peace and progress for Mindanao where the MILF is a trustworthy partner,” she said.
Comprehensive pact
The four annexes and the FAB are to form the comprehensive peace pact. Signed on October 15 last year, the FAB provides for the creation of the Bangsamoro, a new autonomous political entity that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by June 30, 2016.
President Aquino on December 18 signed Executive Order 120 creating the TransCom that would prepare the groundwork for the setting up of the Bangsamoro. The House of Representatives and Senate passed resolutions in support of the EO, before both houses went on Christmas break. The TransCom’s main task is to draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law. The President has yet to name the 15-member TransCom, eight of whom would be from the MILF and seven from the GPH.
Delays
Iqbal said the annexes have not been completed because the issues are “simply hard and contentious.” But Iqbal said there are other reasons. He said he has “great reservations on the current manner and rate we are conducting ourselves in the recent talks,” that there are “many refrains, like a song, that should not have obstructed our way or discussed at all.”
He pointed to the concepts already agreed upon in previous signed documents or already earlier given to the ARMM. “They should not consume our time and effort, or tax the goodwill of the parties. These things should not be offered again and again. These are settled issues and are given,” he said.
In the Wealth-Sharing annex, Iqbal said the technical working groups “continue to lock up horns on the current dismal financial status of the ARMM and the perceived incapacity of any new Bangsamoro entity to rise above this pathetic situation especially in relation to administering the taxes especially the base and collection.”
“It appears that the parties cannot agree that the issue should be appreciated first in terms oprinciples and concepts (i.e., fiscal autonomy for the new entity), the power to tax which must be devolved to it in order to be able to stand on its feet, sharing of revenues and resources, and then the administrative or implementation aspect of whether or not the new entity is capable of. If it is capable, then let it do the tasks immediately, if not, then the parties can agree on the timetable,” he said.
He urged the GPH panel to “ maximize their offer to the Bangsamoro people through this peace process,” adding that “any diluted offer is only slowing down the process. It is not helping us in any way.”
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2013/01/21/for-this-weeks-gph-milf-talks-iqbal-says-finish-at-least-2-of-4-annexes/
Albani calls on PNoy, MILF for massive consultation with Sultanate, MNLF
From the Zamboanga Today (Jan 21): Albani calls on PNoy, MILF for massive consultation with Sultanate, MNLF
A Muslim freelance businessman is calling President Benigno Aquino III and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for a massive consultation with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Sultanate of Sulu on the issue of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
“Sana magakaroon ng massive consultation, meaning we will reconcile dapat i-consult nila ang MNLF at Sultanate (Sulu)... ngayon nakikita natin tapos na ang pirmahan bago consultation... eh...baligtad,” Shariff Ibrahim Albani, chairman of the Unity for Revival Foundation, Inc., said.
Albani was one of the resource speakers during yesterday’s forum on Peace Advocacy on Framework Agreement held at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) gymnasium, with the theme “Bridging the Unity of Bangsamoro and Roadmap Solution to Mindanao Problem.”
Other speakers in the forum were representatives of MILF and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), International Monitoring Team (IMT), leaders of Silsilah Dialogue Movement and Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ), officials of the city government, AFP and PNP as well as leaders of Muslim and Christian religious and human rights groups.
Albani said: “Ang tunay na solution para sa problema ng ating bansa, kailangan bawat leader ng MILF, government alam niya ang tunay na kasaysayan ng bansa kapag hindi niya alam ang tunay na kasaysayan ng bansa hindi rin nila alam ang tunay na kasagutan sa problema na hinaharap ng ating bansa.”
“Ano ba ang gagawin natin dito? Ang gagawin natin kailangan magkaisa ang Muslims, Christians at mga katutubo sapagkat ito lamang ang tunay na kasagutan sa pagbabago at kapayapaan ng ating bansa,” Albani stressed.
Albani said he is hopeful that the MILF together with the GPH and the government under President Aquino should have a massive consultation with the MNLF and the Sultanate of Sulu, “upang mabuo.. in short, kinakailangan bawat isa mag give way hindi lahat ng tao ay maging leader kailangan mayron isa sa Sultanate at sa MNLF.”
“Sana ang presidente hindi lang isa ang i-recognize niya, dapat i-reconcile niya lahat kung talagang gusto niyang magkaroon ng lasting peace and unity dito sa bansa natin... we should recognize the MNLF, we should recognize the Sultanate. Titingnan nila, kung hindi ito maayos ito ang pinakamalaki na conflict in the future.”
“Nakikita ko na there will be a blood bath because of that power and interest. Pangalawa, sa batas ang Sultanate mayron siyang tinatawag na sovereignity, souvereign rights, may title siya ang MNLF at MILF walang bahay, ngayon i-usurpate mo ang territorial boundary nila there will be a big conflict in the future,” Albani further said.
Albani, meantime, said there is a need for creartion of so-called committee of experts, composed of economies, who can turn nothing into something. “If the MILF relies only with the Internal Revenue of the Republic of the Philippines, malaki ang magiging problema diyan.”
He concluded that the best way to realize a final resolution of the decades old conflict in Mindanao through the Bangsamoro framework pact is to get the support of the Sultanate, MNLF, the indigenous people and all the stakeholders.
http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/top-stories/12917-albani-calls-on-pnoy-milf-for-massive-consultation-with-sultanate-mnlf.html
A Muslim freelance businessman is calling President Benigno Aquino III and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for a massive consultation with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Sultanate of Sulu on the issue of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
“Sana magakaroon ng massive consultation, meaning we will reconcile dapat i-consult nila ang MNLF at Sultanate (Sulu)... ngayon nakikita natin tapos na ang pirmahan bago consultation... eh...baligtad,” Shariff Ibrahim Albani, chairman of the Unity for Revival Foundation, Inc., said.
Albani was one of the resource speakers during yesterday’s forum on Peace Advocacy on Framework Agreement held at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) gymnasium, with the theme “Bridging the Unity of Bangsamoro and Roadmap Solution to Mindanao Problem.”
Other speakers in the forum were representatives of MILF and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), International Monitoring Team (IMT), leaders of Silsilah Dialogue Movement and Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ), officials of the city government, AFP and PNP as well as leaders of Muslim and Christian religious and human rights groups.
Albani said: “Ang tunay na solution para sa problema ng ating bansa, kailangan bawat leader ng MILF, government alam niya ang tunay na kasaysayan ng bansa kapag hindi niya alam ang tunay na kasaysayan ng bansa hindi rin nila alam ang tunay na kasagutan sa problema na hinaharap ng ating bansa.”
“Ano ba ang gagawin natin dito? Ang gagawin natin kailangan magkaisa ang Muslims, Christians at mga katutubo sapagkat ito lamang ang tunay na kasagutan sa pagbabago at kapayapaan ng ating bansa,” Albani stressed.
Albani said he is hopeful that the MILF together with the GPH and the government under President Aquino should have a massive consultation with the MNLF and the Sultanate of Sulu, “upang mabuo.. in short, kinakailangan bawat isa mag give way hindi lahat ng tao ay maging leader kailangan mayron isa sa Sultanate at sa MNLF.”
“Sana ang presidente hindi lang isa ang i-recognize niya, dapat i-reconcile niya lahat kung talagang gusto niyang magkaroon ng lasting peace and unity dito sa bansa natin... we should recognize the MNLF, we should recognize the Sultanate. Titingnan nila, kung hindi ito maayos ito ang pinakamalaki na conflict in the future.”
“Nakikita ko na there will be a blood bath because of that power and interest. Pangalawa, sa batas ang Sultanate mayron siyang tinatawag na sovereignity, souvereign rights, may title siya ang MNLF at MILF walang bahay, ngayon i-usurpate mo ang territorial boundary nila there will be a big conflict in the future,” Albani further said.
Albani, meantime, said there is a need for creartion of so-called committee of experts, composed of economies, who can turn nothing into something. “If the MILF relies only with the Internal Revenue of the Republic of the Philippines, malaki ang magiging problema diyan.”
He concluded that the best way to realize a final resolution of the decades old conflict in Mindanao through the Bangsamoro framework pact is to get the support of the Sultanate, MNLF, the indigenous people and all the stakeholders.
http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/top-stories/12917-albani-calls-on-pnoy-milf-for-massive-consultation-with-sultanate-mnlf.html
PN: Navy Chief Visits the Fleet
From the Philippine Navy Website (Jan 20): Navy Chief Visits the Fleet
Part of the rich tradition of the Navy is the visit of the New Flag Officer in Command to every unit, in order to uplift the morale of every navy personnel.
Just recently (16 January 2013), Vice Admiral Jose Luis M Alano AFP, the Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command visited one of its major type commands, the Philippine Fleet. He was accorded with an arrival honor and then he proceed to the headquarters of the Philippine Fleet for the "Talk to Men"- an assembly of PN Officers and Personnel with the Commander that aimed to discuss and address relevant issues and concerns.
The Philippine Fleet headed by the its Commander, Rear Admiral Orwen J Cortez is mandated to organize, train, equip and maintain fleet assets for naval operations in order to contribute to the accomplishment of the Philippine Navy mission.
http://www.navy.mil.ph/news.php?news_id=824&home=1
Part of the rich tradition of the Navy is the visit of the New Flag Officer in Command to every unit, in order to uplift the morale of every navy personnel.
Just recently (16 January 2013), Vice Admiral Jose Luis M Alano AFP, the Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command visited one of its major type commands, the Philippine Fleet. He was accorded with an arrival honor and then he proceed to the headquarters of the Philippine Fleet for the "Talk to Men"- an assembly of PN Officers and Personnel with the Commander that aimed to discuss and address relevant issues and concerns.
The Philippine Fleet headed by the its Commander, Rear Admiral Orwen J Cortez is mandated to organize, train, equip and maintain fleet assets for naval operations in order to contribute to the accomplishment of the Philippine Navy mission.
http://www.navy.mil.ph/news.php?news_id=824&home=1
PA: Photo--LtGen Emmanuel T. Bautista, New AFP Chief of Staff
From the Philippine Army Public Affairs Office Facebook Page: Photo: LtGen Emmanuel T. Bautista, New AFP Chief of Staff
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Philippine-Army-Public-Affairs-Office/119999698013971#!/photo.php?fbid=417141695027019&set=a.208496082558249.49902.208474745893716&type=1&theater
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Philippine-Army-Public-Affairs-Office/119999698013971#!/photo.php?fbid=417141695027019&set=a.208496082558249.49902.208474745893716&type=1&theater
OPAPP: Opening Statement of GPH Panel Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on the 35th GPH-MILF Formal Exploratory Talks
Posted to the OPAPP (Jan 21): Opening Statement of GPH Panel Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on the 35th GPH-MILF Formal Exploratory Talks
Thank you very much. Asalamu alaikum.
His Excellency Tengku Dato’ Abd Ghafar Tengku Mohammed, Brother Mohagher Iqbal of the MILF and our brothers Bobby Alonto, Abdullah Camlian and Dato Antonio Kinoc. The MILF technical working groups and secretariat. Our companions in this journey, the members of the ICG.
Good morning to everyone. (salutations)
In the past weeks since we adjourned the December round of talks, both the Government and the MILF panels met with a lot of people.In many of these meetings,again and again we had to explain why it is important to realize self-governance in the envisioned Bangsamoro; why this Bangsamoro is different from local government units and administrative regions in actual terms and as envisioned in the Constitution when it provided in Article X for autonomous regions; and why therefore they deserve to have more powers, more support and institutional features that are different from the rest of the country, such as a plural administration of justice system and a ministerial form of government.
Again and again we had to explain that this asymmetrical relationship vis-à-vis other government units and the parity of esteem that we agreed to uphold between the Central and Bangsamoro governments do not make the Bangsamoro separate from the rest of the country. The MILF, the Bangsamoro are Filipinos.
Again and again, we explained why these people and the new political entity that we are crafting deserve and have the right to be called Bangsamoro as the symbol of their identity.
At the same time, before other constituents, we had to clarify that such a right is not an imposition; that there shall be freedom of choice as to identity; that basic rights, political representation and equal protection shall be guaranteed for all; that all indigenous peoples in the territorial jurisdiction of the future Bangsamoro, whether Moro on non-Moro, shall have the right to their ancestral domains; that vested property rights and belief systems including those of settlers shall be recognized and respected.
Still there are those who remained skeptical. They ask: what makes you so sure that this time around it will be different? That not another armed group will arise asking for the same things. That governance will be better and not worse.
We tell them: we do not have all the answers, but we have to try. The alternative is to be left with the status quo that is unacceptable.
We say: this time, our aim is transformation and empowerment, not patronage. The new institutions shall be inclusive. There shall be transparency. We have all learned from the lessons of the past.
In this round of talks we aim to settle the few remaining issues across the four annexes that together with the Framework Agreement will comprise the Comprehensive Agreement.
These issues pertain to jurisdiction over natural resources; transportation and communication; the extent of territorial waters; taxing powers; timetables for decommissioning and demilitarization; policing structures; the transition authority, among others.
Expect that we will get worked up in the minutest details. Expect that we will once again tangle with words and ruffle emotions. But our goals have remained the same: (1) To establish a Bangsamoro government that will enjoy the blessings of meaningful political and fiscal autonomy. (2) To get to this end through a peaceful transition that will enable the MILF to test and prove its brand of leadership, jumpstart the socio-economic development in the communities, and forever still the guns in the erstwhile conflict-affected region. (3) To achieve healing, reconstruction and the human security of the peoples, groups and sectors in the region.
To get any farther toward these goals, we first have to produce a comprehensive agreement that will measure up to the core needs of the Bangsamoro advocates, on the one hand,and at the same time stand the scrutiny of the skeptics and all those who will co-exist with each other under the Bangsamoro government.
The government negotiating team and the bureaucracy behind us has no other interest than to see this through. We are not politicians. Our task is to assist the President realize his vision of peace and progress for Mindanao where the MILF is a trustworthy partner.
We are not tourists in this journey. Besides this journey is not for the fainthearted. After the annexes, the ride will even be rougher. But, insha Allah, we will get going. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/milf/news/opening-statement-gph-panel-chair-miriam-coronel-ferrer-35th-gph-milf-formal-exploratory-t
Thank you very much. Asalamu alaikum.
His Excellency Tengku Dato’ Abd Ghafar Tengku Mohammed, Brother Mohagher Iqbal of the MILF and our brothers Bobby Alonto, Abdullah Camlian and Dato Antonio Kinoc. The MILF technical working groups and secretariat. Our companions in this journey, the members of the ICG.
Good morning to everyone. (salutations)
In the past weeks since we adjourned the December round of talks, both the Government and the MILF panels met with a lot of people.In many of these meetings,again and again we had to explain why it is important to realize self-governance in the envisioned Bangsamoro; why this Bangsamoro is different from local government units and administrative regions in actual terms and as envisioned in the Constitution when it provided in Article X for autonomous regions; and why therefore they deserve to have more powers, more support and institutional features that are different from the rest of the country, such as a plural administration of justice system and a ministerial form of government.
Again and again we had to explain that this asymmetrical relationship vis-à-vis other government units and the parity of esteem that we agreed to uphold between the Central and Bangsamoro governments do not make the Bangsamoro separate from the rest of the country. The MILF, the Bangsamoro are Filipinos.
Again and again, we explained why these people and the new political entity that we are crafting deserve and have the right to be called Bangsamoro as the symbol of their identity.
At the same time, before other constituents, we had to clarify that such a right is not an imposition; that there shall be freedom of choice as to identity; that basic rights, political representation and equal protection shall be guaranteed for all; that all indigenous peoples in the territorial jurisdiction of the future Bangsamoro, whether Moro on non-Moro, shall have the right to their ancestral domains; that vested property rights and belief systems including those of settlers shall be recognized and respected.
Still there are those who remained skeptical. They ask: what makes you so sure that this time around it will be different? That not another armed group will arise asking for the same things. That governance will be better and not worse.
We tell them: we do not have all the answers, but we have to try. The alternative is to be left with the status quo that is unacceptable.
We say: this time, our aim is transformation and empowerment, not patronage. The new institutions shall be inclusive. There shall be transparency. We have all learned from the lessons of the past.
In this round of talks we aim to settle the few remaining issues across the four annexes that together with the Framework Agreement will comprise the Comprehensive Agreement.
These issues pertain to jurisdiction over natural resources; transportation and communication; the extent of territorial waters; taxing powers; timetables for decommissioning and demilitarization; policing structures; the transition authority, among others.
Expect that we will get worked up in the minutest details. Expect that we will once again tangle with words and ruffle emotions. But our goals have remained the same: (1) To establish a Bangsamoro government that will enjoy the blessings of meaningful political and fiscal autonomy. (2) To get to this end through a peaceful transition that will enable the MILF to test and prove its brand of leadership, jumpstart the socio-economic development in the communities, and forever still the guns in the erstwhile conflict-affected region. (3) To achieve healing, reconstruction and the human security of the peoples, groups and sectors in the region.
To get any farther toward these goals, we first have to produce a comprehensive agreement that will measure up to the core needs of the Bangsamoro advocates, on the one hand,and at the same time stand the scrutiny of the skeptics and all those who will co-exist with each other under the Bangsamoro government.
The government negotiating team and the bureaucracy behind us has no other interest than to see this through. We are not politicians. Our task is to assist the President realize his vision of peace and progress for Mindanao where the MILF is a trustworthy partner.
We are not tourists in this journey. Besides this journey is not for the fainthearted. After the annexes, the ride will even be rougher. But, insha Allah, we will get going. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/milf/news/opening-statement-gph-panel-chair-miriam-coronel-ferrer-35th-gph-milf-formal-exploratory-t
Fluvial parade for FAB set to sail in Rio Grande de Mindanao
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 21): Fluvial parade for FAB set to sail in Rio Grande de Mindanao
Residents of Central Mindanao will witness a parade of hundreds of colorful and traditional boats along the Rio Grande de Mindanao to show its support to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). The fluvial float parade which is led by 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in cooperation with the provincial government of Maguindanao as well as local officials of different towns is set to sail on January 29.
The parade will start at Mother Kabuntalan riverbanks, will pass along Barangay Upper Taviran and Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat and will end at the rear of the riverside in Sultan Bolkiah Grand Mosque in Cotabato City.
6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Lao Lucas said the “Fluvial Peace Caravan” aims to highlight the military and other sectors’ support on the FAB. An estimated 500 motorized boats are expected to participate in the fluvial parade.
Newly installed 6th ID spokesman Col. Dickson Hermoso is thankful to the support of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, local leaders, non-government organizations and peace advocates for helping organize the fluvial parade.
The Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed the Framework of Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which will pave the way for the establishment of the new autonomous political entity, the Bangsamoro, to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on October 15, 2012, in ceremonies held in Malacañan Palace.
The signing was witnessed by President Benigno S. Aquino III, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, and other dignitaries.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411358746543
Residents of Central Mindanao will witness a parade of hundreds of colorful and traditional boats along the Rio Grande de Mindanao to show its support to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). The fluvial float parade which is led by 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in cooperation with the provincial government of Maguindanao as well as local officials of different towns is set to sail on January 29.
The parade will start at Mother Kabuntalan riverbanks, will pass along Barangay Upper Taviran and Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat and will end at the rear of the riverside in Sultan Bolkiah Grand Mosque in Cotabato City.
6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Lao Lucas said the “Fluvial Peace Caravan” aims to highlight the military and other sectors’ support on the FAB. An estimated 500 motorized boats are expected to participate in the fluvial parade.
Newly installed 6th ID spokesman Col. Dickson Hermoso is thankful to the support of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, local leaders, non-government organizations and peace advocates for helping organize the fluvial parade.
The Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed the Framework of Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which will pave the way for the establishment of the new autonomous political entity, the Bangsamoro, to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on October 15, 2012, in ceremonies held in Malacañan Palace.
The signing was witnessed by President Benigno S. Aquino III, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, and other dignitaries.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411358746543
Soldiers’ first retraining for 2013 opens
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 21): Soldiers’ first retraining for 2013 opens
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -- The Division Reenlistment Office of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division opened the Restructured Reenlistment Training (RRT) at the Division’s Grandstand, January 19. The program started with an opening prayer offered by Division Sergeant Major Rodrigo A Litang Sr, which was followed by the presentation of students by Lieutenant Colonel Juanito B Vertudez, division reenlistment officer.
Lieutenant Colonel Rene R Cañete, assistant chief of staff for Education and Training, G8 declared the opening of the students of Restructured Reenlistment Training (RRT) Batch 01 – 2013 and subsequently introduced the keynote speaker.
A total of 118 enlisted personnel from the line units under 4ID had joined the 14-day training that aims to teach soldiers on the basic skill of soldiery necessary in the performance of their task as combatant in the battlefield. Since they were already taught of this during their pre-soldiery training, this training serves as a refresher. This training is mandatory for a soldier to undergo every three years of his service as a pre-requisite for him to be re-enlisted to the regular force of the Armed Forces.
In this training, although of brief duration, the soldiers will be taught Air-to-Ground Operations, Combat Life Saver, Immediate Action Drill, Communication Security, Mechanized Infantry Drill, Forward Observer, Marksmanship, and Cultural Sensitivity which are all basic for a soldier to learn. The Disaster Emergency and Rescue Training (Deart) was also incorporated in order to prepare soldiers in the event of any disaster. Another subject was further added to the program of instruction which will help the soldiers in the discharge of their duties during election, the election-related resolutions and laws.
Lieutenant Colonel Rolando C Dumawa, assistant chief of staff for CMO, G7 the keynote speaker during the program, inspired the students in his speech and encouraged them to be more disciplined and do the right thing as prescribe by the Army Vision of “A World Class Army that is a source of national pride.” He emphasized to everybody that by being a more responsive and motivated soldier we can help the Army in the attainment of its vision.
He further reminded the soldiers that they should be able to understand the Internal Peace Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” as the contribution of the Armed Forces to the permanent closure of the armed conflict in the country. He also told soldiers that as agent of the state we are first expected to advocate and adhere to human rights law as one of our good tools in winning the peace.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Eugenio Julio C Osias IV, 4ID spokesperson said RRT students should be attentive and take the training seriously for them to be more proficient in combat and other skills necessary for them to efficiently perform their tasks as soldiers of the people.
This training will also help the individual soldier to enhance their ability to lead and develop their time-management skills. Also, they should also remember the importance of having a healthy mind and body which is essential in our profession as soldiers. (4CMO/4ID/PA/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461358741884
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -- The Division Reenlistment Office of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division opened the Restructured Reenlistment Training (RRT) at the Division’s Grandstand, January 19. The program started with an opening prayer offered by Division Sergeant Major Rodrigo A Litang Sr, which was followed by the presentation of students by Lieutenant Colonel Juanito B Vertudez, division reenlistment officer.
Lieutenant Colonel Rene R Cañete, assistant chief of staff for Education and Training, G8 declared the opening of the students of Restructured Reenlistment Training (RRT) Batch 01 – 2013 and subsequently introduced the keynote speaker.
A total of 118 enlisted personnel from the line units under 4ID had joined the 14-day training that aims to teach soldiers on the basic skill of soldiery necessary in the performance of their task as combatant in the battlefield. Since they were already taught of this during their pre-soldiery training, this training serves as a refresher. This training is mandatory for a soldier to undergo every three years of his service as a pre-requisite for him to be re-enlisted to the regular force of the Armed Forces.
In this training, although of brief duration, the soldiers will be taught Air-to-Ground Operations, Combat Life Saver, Immediate Action Drill, Communication Security, Mechanized Infantry Drill, Forward Observer, Marksmanship, and Cultural Sensitivity which are all basic for a soldier to learn. The Disaster Emergency and Rescue Training (Deart) was also incorporated in order to prepare soldiers in the event of any disaster. Another subject was further added to the program of instruction which will help the soldiers in the discharge of their duties during election, the election-related resolutions and laws.
Lieutenant Colonel Rolando C Dumawa, assistant chief of staff for CMO, G7 the keynote speaker during the program, inspired the students in his speech and encouraged them to be more disciplined and do the right thing as prescribe by the Army Vision of “A World Class Army that is a source of national pride.” He emphasized to everybody that by being a more responsive and motivated soldier we can help the Army in the attainment of its vision.
He further reminded the soldiers that they should be able to understand the Internal Peace Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” as the contribution of the Armed Forces to the permanent closure of the armed conflict in the country. He also told soldiers that as agent of the state we are first expected to advocate and adhere to human rights law as one of our good tools in winning the peace.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Eugenio Julio C Osias IV, 4ID spokesperson said RRT students should be attentive and take the training seriously for them to be more proficient in combat and other skills necessary for them to efficiently perform their tasks as soldiers of the people.
This training will also help the individual soldier to enhance their ability to lead and develop their time-management skills. Also, they should also remember the importance of having a healthy mind and body which is essential in our profession as soldiers. (4CMO/4ID/PA/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461358741884
Army, UNTV medical mission benefit 1,900 residents
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 21): Army, UNTV medical mission benefit 1,900 residents
The 903rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, in partnership with the UNTV Network, conducted its first medical mission benefiting 1,986 residents of 10 barangays of Irosin town in Sorsogon on January 15. “With the opportunity extended to the Philippine Army to recommend areas for medical missions, the 31st Infantry Battalion, under the Brigade’s operational control, designated Barangay Gabao in Irosin as the first beneficiary for CY 2013,” said 903rd Brigade Commanding Officer Col. Joselito E. Kakilala.
Supporting UNTV in this laudable undertaking is the Kamangagawa Foundation Clinic ni Kuya Daniel Razon and Bro. Ely Soriano. The local government led by Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. sent their municipal doctors and nurses to join said activity. The Sangguniang Barangays including barangay captains of the 10 adjacent barangays, were also present and brought their constituents to avail of the free medical services offered.
Col Kakilala said the medical mission included medical and dental services, x-ray services, and optical check-up with free eyeglasses distribution. Soldiers from the 31IB also provided free haircut and therapeutic massage. “The activity benefited 1,986 clienteles of 10 barangays of Irosin town. Of the total number, 315 adults and 366 pedia were given medical check-ups, 145 for dental, 260 for optical, 35 on reflexology, 95 haircut services and 745 recipients of free medicines. The UNTV’s X-ray van which traveled all the way from Manila also served 25 local residents,” he added.
Col Joselito E Kakilala further said that UNTV’s medical missions have made a huge difference in the lives of the people of Sorsogon, especially to the indigents. “This endeavor is in line with the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan- Bayanihan,” he said.
Meanwhile, barangay chairperson Teresa Pontalan of Barangay Gabao said it was the first time, that they experienced a medical mission with plenty of medicines and with many doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners congregated in their place.
Irosin Municipal Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr, on the other hand, said that the medical mission boosted the health services program of the municipality providing prompt treatment and adequate medicines to their people.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=801358742443
The 903rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, in partnership with the UNTV Network, conducted its first medical mission benefiting 1,986 residents of 10 barangays of Irosin town in Sorsogon on January 15. “With the opportunity extended to the Philippine Army to recommend areas for medical missions, the 31st Infantry Battalion, under the Brigade’s operational control, designated Barangay Gabao in Irosin as the first beneficiary for CY 2013,” said 903rd Brigade Commanding Officer Col. Joselito E. Kakilala.
Supporting UNTV in this laudable undertaking is the Kamangagawa Foundation Clinic ni Kuya Daniel Razon and Bro. Ely Soriano. The local government led by Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. sent their municipal doctors and nurses to join said activity. The Sangguniang Barangays including barangay captains of the 10 adjacent barangays, were also present and brought their constituents to avail of the free medical services offered.
Col Kakilala said the medical mission included medical and dental services, x-ray services, and optical check-up with free eyeglasses distribution. Soldiers from the 31IB also provided free haircut and therapeutic massage. “The activity benefited 1,986 clienteles of 10 barangays of Irosin town. Of the total number, 315 adults and 366 pedia were given medical check-ups, 145 for dental, 260 for optical, 35 on reflexology, 95 haircut services and 745 recipients of free medicines. The UNTV’s X-ray van which traveled all the way from Manila also served 25 local residents,” he added.
Col Joselito E Kakilala further said that UNTV’s medical missions have made a huge difference in the lives of the people of Sorsogon, especially to the indigents. “This endeavor is in line with the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan- Bayanihan,” he said.
Meanwhile, barangay chairperson Teresa Pontalan of Barangay Gabao said it was the first time, that they experienced a medical mission with plenty of medicines and with many doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners congregated in their place.
Irosin Municipal Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr, on the other hand, said that the medical mission boosted the health services program of the municipality providing prompt treatment and adequate medicines to their people.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=801358742443
Commander of 7ID, again called on the rebels to join the military to fight against climate change
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 22): Kumander
ng 7ID, muling nanawagan sa mga rebelde na makiisa sa militar sa paglaban
kontra pagbabago ng klima (Commander of 7ID, againcalled on the rebels to join the military tofight
against climate change)
Muling nanawagan ang kumander ng 7th Infantry Division (7ID) ng Philippine Army na si Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. sa Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army (CPP-NDF-NPA) na makiisa sa Hukbong Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas sa paglaban kontra pagbabago ng klima.
(The commander of the 7th Infantry Division (7ID)of the Philippine Army, Brigadier General GregorioPio Catapang Jr., again called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People'sArmy (CPP-NDF-NPA) to join the ArmyArmed Forces of thePhilippines
Ani Catapang, hinihimok niya ang CPP-NDF-NPA na magdeklara ng bilateral ceasefire sa mga disaster-prone areas at tumulong sa konstruksyon ng mga paaralan na maaring maging evacuation centers tuwing may kalamidad.
(Catapang encouraged the CPP-NDF-NPA to declare a bilateral ceasefirein disaster-proneareas and contribute to the construction of theschools that may beevacuation centers during a disaster.)
Iginiit pa ng heneral na ang pananalasa ng bagyong Pablo sa Davao Region, na nagresulta ng pagkamatay ng libu-libo at pagkasira sa agrikultura at imprastraktura na nagkakahalaga nang lampas sa isang bilyong piso ay senyales sa lahat na dapat nang tignang bilang seryosong banta ang pagbabago ng klima.
(The general argued thatthe onslaught oftyphoon Paul DavaoRegion, which resulted in the deaths of thousands anddamage to agricultureand infrastructure valued at over a billion pesos, isall that should be needed to signal(the existence) of a serious threatsuch as climate change.)
Samantala, iniulat ni Catapang na umabot sa 9,881 kilograms o 10 tons ng relief goods ang naipamahagi ng 7ID sa mga biktima ng bayong Pablo sa tulong ng mga may mabubuting loob sa Nueva Ecija at iba pang bahagi ng Gitnang Luzon.
(Meanwhile, Catapang reported that 9,881 kilogramsor 10 tons of relief goods distributed by7ID reached the victims of (Typhoon) Pablo from areas within Nueva Ecija and other parts ofCentral
Luzon .)
Ang mga relief goods ay binubuo ng bigas, assorted noodles, canned goods, mga trinelas at sapatos, mga gamit na damit, mineral water, assorted goods at toiletries.
(The relief goods consisted of rice, assortednoodles, canned goods, sandals andshoes, (along) with clothing,mineral water, assortedgoods and toiletries.)
Ito ay idineliver sa mga tropa ng 7ID sa Davao Oriental upang ipamahagi sa mga apektadong pamilya.
(These were delivered by 7ID troops and distributed to affected families in Davao Oriental.)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561358774655
Muling nanawagan ang kumander ng 7th Infantry Division (7ID) ng Philippine Army na si Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. sa Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army (CPP-NDF-NPA) na makiisa sa Hukbong Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas sa paglaban kontra pagbabago ng klima.
(The commander of the 7th Infantry Division (7ID)of the Philippine Army, Brigadier General GregorioPio Catapang Jr., again called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People'sArmy (CPP-NDF-NPA) to join the ArmyArmed Forces of the
Ani Catapang, hinihimok niya ang CPP-NDF-NPA na magdeklara ng bilateral ceasefire sa mga disaster-prone areas at tumulong sa konstruksyon ng mga paaralan na maaring maging evacuation centers tuwing may kalamidad.
(Catapang encouraged the CPP-NDF-NPA to declare a bilateral ceasefirein disaster-proneareas and contribute to the construction of theschools that may beevacuation centers during a disaster.)
Iginiit pa ng heneral na ang pananalasa ng bagyong Pablo sa Davao Region, na nagresulta ng pagkamatay ng libu-libo at pagkasira sa agrikultura at imprastraktura na nagkakahalaga nang lampas sa isang bilyong piso ay senyales sa lahat na dapat nang tignang bilang seryosong banta ang pagbabago ng klima.
(The general argued thatthe onslaught oftyphoon Paul DavaoRegion, which resulted in the deaths of thousands anddamage to agricultureand infrastructure valued at over a billion pesos, isall that should be needed to signal(the existence) of a serious threatsuch as climate change.)
Samantala, iniulat ni Catapang na umabot sa 9,881 kilograms o 10 tons ng relief goods ang naipamahagi ng 7ID sa mga biktima ng bayong Pablo sa tulong ng mga may mabubuting loob sa Nueva Ecija at iba pang bahagi ng Gitnang Luzon.
(Meanwhile, Catapang reported that 9,881 kilogramsor 10 tons of relief goods distributed by7ID reached the victims of (Typhoon) Pablo from areas within Nueva Ecija and other parts of
Ang mga relief goods ay binubuo ng bigas, assorted noodles, canned goods, mga trinelas at sapatos, mga gamit na damit, mineral water, assorted goods at toiletries.
(The relief goods consisted of rice, assortednoodles, canned goods, sandals andshoes, (along) with clothing,mineral water, assortedgoods and toiletries.)
Ito ay idineliver sa mga tropa ng 7ID sa Davao Oriental upang ipamahagi sa mga apektadong pamilya.
(These were delivered by 7ID troops and distributed to affected families in Davao Oriental.)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561358774655
Army 7ID continues pursuit of peace in Regions One and Three
From the Philippine Informtion Agency (Jan 22): 7ID
ng Army patuloy sa hangarin ng kapayapaan sa Rehiyon Uno at Tres (Army 7ID continues pursuit of peace in Regions
One and Three)
Inihayag ng 7th Infantry Division (7ID) ng Philippine Army na patuloy o "on track" ito sa pagpanalo ng kapayapaan sa rehiyong Ilocos at Gitnang Luzon.
(The Philippine Army 7th Infantry Division (7ID) reported that it continues to be "on track" in winning the peace in Ilocos andCentral Luzonregions .)
Ayon kay 7ID commander Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr, kanilang nalimitahan ang mga "ideological political organizing works" ng Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army gamit ang mga "Peace Development Teams" o Bayanihan Patrols na nag-uugnay sa pamahalaan at mamamayan sa mga malalayong lugar sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng mga pangunahing serbisyo.
(According to the 7ID commander Brigadier General GregorioPio Catapang Jr., they restricted the "ideologicalpolitical organizing works" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People'sArmy with the "Peace Development Teams" or Bayanihan Patrolsthat link the government and people in remote areas by providing basic services.)
Noong 2012, nagpasa ng resolusyon ang mga Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Zambales at Ilocos Norte na nagdedeklara sa kani-kanilang mga probinsya bilang “peaceful and ready for further development.”
(In 2012, the Provincial Councils of Zambales and Ilocos Norte passed resolutions declaringtheir provinces as"peaceful and ready for furtherdevelopment.")
Pumirma rin ng Memorandum of Agreement ang 7ID sa mga lokal na punong ehekutibo saBataan na may kahalintulad na
deklarasyon.
(A Memorandum of Agreement with the 7IDwas also signed by the local chief executiveinBataan with
a similar declaration.)
Sinabi ni Catapang na ang deklarasyon na ito sa mga nabanggit na lalawigan ay magbibigay daan upang mas dumami ang mamumuhunan sa kani-kanilang mga lugar.
(Catapang said that the declarations issued by these provinces will result in more investors(coming) to their areas.)
Sa ngayon ang iba pang “insurgency-free” na sa Rehiyon Uno at Tres ay ang La Union,Aurora
(Right now the other "insurgency-free" (provinces) in Regions One and Three are La Union, Aurora, Tarlac,Nueva Ecija andPangasinan.)
Hinikayat ni Catapang ang lahat na ngayong namamatay na ang paghihimagsik at ipinanganak na ang kapayapaan at kasaganahan ay dapat paghandaan naman ang panibagong digmaan -- ang digmaan laban sa epekto ng pagbabago ng klima upang maiwasang magkaroon ng pagkawala ng buhay at matinding pinsala tuwing may kalamidad.
(Catapang is encouraged by all the peaceand prosperity that has risen as a result of the dying rebellion (but cautions that we) mustalso prepare for thenew war - the war against the effectsof climate change in order to prevent lossof life and severedamage during adisaster.)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561358774601
Inihayag ng 7th Infantry Division (7ID) ng Philippine Army na patuloy o "on track" ito sa pagpanalo ng kapayapaan sa rehiyong Ilocos at Gitnang Luzon.
(The Philippine Army 7th Infantry Division (7ID) reported that it continues to be "on track" in winning the peace in Ilocos and
Ayon kay 7ID commander Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr, kanilang nalimitahan ang mga "ideological political organizing works" ng Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army gamit ang mga "Peace Development Teams" o Bayanihan Patrols na nag-uugnay sa pamahalaan at mamamayan sa mga malalayong lugar sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng mga pangunahing serbisyo.
(According to the 7ID commander Brigadier General GregorioPio Catapang Jr., they restricted the "ideologicalpolitical organizing works" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People'sArmy with the "Peace Development Teams" or Bayanihan Patrolsthat link the government and people in remote areas by providing basic services.)
Noong 2012, nagpasa ng resolusyon ang mga Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Zambales at Ilocos Norte na nagdedeklara sa kani-kanilang mga probinsya bilang “peaceful and ready for further development.”
(In 2012, the Provincial Councils of Zambales and Ilocos Norte passed resolutions declaringtheir provinces as"peaceful and ready for furtherdevelopment.")
Pumirma rin ng Memorandum of Agreement ang 7ID sa mga lokal na punong ehekutibo sa
(A Memorandum of Agreement with the 7IDwas also signed by the local chief executivein
Sinabi ni Catapang na ang deklarasyon na ito sa mga nabanggit na lalawigan ay magbibigay daan upang mas dumami ang mamumuhunan sa kani-kanilang mga lugar.
(Catapang said that the declarations issued by these provinces will result in more investors(coming) to their areas.)
Sa ngayon ang iba pang “insurgency-free” na sa Rehiyon Uno at Tres ay ang La Union,
(Right now the other "insurgency-free" (provinces) in Regions One and Three are La Union, Aurora, Tarlac,Nueva Ecija andPangasinan.)
Hinikayat ni Catapang ang lahat na ngayong namamatay na ang paghihimagsik at ipinanganak na ang kapayapaan at kasaganahan ay dapat paghandaan naman ang panibagong digmaan -- ang digmaan laban sa epekto ng pagbabago ng klima upang maiwasang magkaroon ng pagkawala ng buhay at matinding pinsala tuwing may kalamidad.
(Catapang is encouraged by all the peaceand prosperity that has risen as a result of the dying rebellion (but cautions that we) mustalso prepare for thenew war - the war against the effectsof climate change in order to prevent lossof life and severedamage during adisaster.)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561358774601
Moro Widows Earn From Lilies
From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 20): Moro Widows Earn From Lilies
LILY HANDICRAFT-Ethnic Maguindanaoan women sell a few samples of their bags made from water lilies at a recent forum on the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro in Buluan, a town in Maguindanao bordering the 220,000-Hectare Liguasan... (Ali G. Macabalang)
COTABATO, Philippines – While perceived as a menace to thousands of people living in low areas here and in nearby Maguindanao towns adjacent to rivers during rainy days, water lilies abounding the 220,000-hectare Liguasan Marsh have been a source of livelihood for hundreds of mostly widows of former Moro rebels living around the delta.
True to the words of a former regional trade official in the Muslim Mindanao region that “there can be positive dimension in a world of problems,” collaborating government line agencies and local government units have been training and assisting several organized female residents in a cottage industry that emerged some three years ago out of the menacing water lilies.
The stalks and leaves of a water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) are durable materials for bags, mats, slippers and home decors that are now sold in other regions and even designed to cover foreign markets. Water lilies, according to Department of Science and Technology (DOST) researchers, can also be ground finely, mixed with a durable binding compound, and molded into wall boards and panel sheets for construction and industrial purposes.
But for the moment, the DOST and other line agencies alongside the local governments (LGUs) in North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao surrounding the Liguasan delta are led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) in assisting some 2,000 female residents trained and engaged in producing personal gadgets made out of water lilies.
There are estimated 10,000 families of guerillas belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and even the renegade Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM). In Maguindanao, almost a dozen of cooperatives involving mostly widows of slain MNLF and MILF combatants have been engaged in making bags, mats, slippers and other personal gadgets out of processed water lily stalks and leaves, according to Lea Sagan, an OPAPP liaison for the office of Governor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu.
In an earlier Manila Bulletin interview, Gov. Mangudadatu recalled having initially organized a cooperative for 800 female constituents upon his election in 2010, providing them an initial seed money of P250,000 and P1 million additional fund later. He said his office would allocate another P1-million subsidy early this year.
“We’re very glad in embarking on one project that addresses two concerns: The poverty among our female residents that are mostly widows; and the conversion of the menace of water lilies into a source of livelihood,” Mangudadatu said.
Thousands of villagers in more than 20 barangays in the city and in nearby towns of Kabuntalan, Sultan Kudarat and Northern Kabuntalan in Maguindanao, Pigkawayan and Midsayap in North Cotabato were dislocated when vast carpets of water hyacinths blocked in 2008 and 2010 the downstream channels of the Rio Grande de Mindanao.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/390487/moro-widows-earn-from-lilies
True to the words of a former regional trade official in the Muslim Mindanao region that “there can be positive dimension in a world of problems,” collaborating government line agencies and local government units have been training and assisting several organized female residents in a cottage industry that emerged some three years ago out of the menacing water lilies.
The stalks and leaves of a water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) are durable materials for bags, mats, slippers and home decors that are now sold in other regions and even designed to cover foreign markets. Water lilies, according to Department of Science and Technology (DOST) researchers, can also be ground finely, mixed with a durable binding compound, and molded into wall boards and panel sheets for construction and industrial purposes.
But for the moment, the DOST and other line agencies alongside the local governments (LGUs) in North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao surrounding the Liguasan delta are led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) in assisting some 2,000 female residents trained and engaged in producing personal gadgets made out of water lilies.
There are estimated 10,000 families of guerillas belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and even the renegade Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM). In Maguindanao, almost a dozen of cooperatives involving mostly widows of slain MNLF and MILF combatants have been engaged in making bags, mats, slippers and other personal gadgets out of processed water lily stalks and leaves, according to Lea Sagan, an OPAPP liaison for the office of Governor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu.
In an earlier Manila Bulletin interview, Gov. Mangudadatu recalled having initially organized a cooperative for 800 female constituents upon his election in 2010, providing them an initial seed money of P250,000 and P1 million additional fund later. He said his office would allocate another P1-million subsidy early this year.
“We’re very glad in embarking on one project that addresses two concerns: The poverty among our female residents that are mostly widows; and the conversion of the menace of water lilies into a source of livelihood,” Mangudadatu said.
Thousands of villagers in more than 20 barangays in the city and in nearby towns of Kabuntalan, Sultan Kudarat and Northern Kabuntalan in Maguindanao, Pigkawayan and Midsayap in North Cotabato were dislocated when vast carpets of water hyacinths blocked in 2008 and 2010 the downstream channels of the Rio Grande de Mindanao.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/390487/moro-widows-earn-from-lilies
US ship’s presence in Palawan defended
From the Manila Standard Today (Jan 22): US ship’s presence in Palawan defended
There was nothing irregular about the presence of the United States minesweeper USS Guardian in the protected and restricted Palawan waters where it ran aground on Tubbataha Reef, Malacañang said Monday. “I confirmed with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin that there was such a port call request made for Puerto Princesa by USS Guardian,” presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said. “There was a request made and the request was granted.”
Still, that will not stop the government from demanding that the United States Navy pay for the damage suffered by the reef, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the cost of removing the vessel.
Transport Secretary Joseph Abaya said the Philippines also expected the US to sanction the captain of the USS Guardian that ran aground on Thursday last week.
“Once you ground your vessel—or touch bottom without causing damage—just the fact that you allowed it to touch ground is a mortal sin. I expect they’ll come down hard on their commanding officer,” Abaya said. “As a responsible nation and state and as a strong ally of the Philippines, I assume it goes without saying [that the US will pay for the damage and the cost of salvaging the ship)… The law doesn’t distinguish whether this was negligence or inadvertence or intentional.”
The Tubbataha Management Office has said that the USS Guardian did not have a permit to enter the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, and that the ship’s officers ignored Marine Park rangers when told that they were entering a protected area. When the rangers warned the ship’s officers that they would be boarding it, the ship’s crew took battle positions with their weapons, forcing the rangers to back off.
Vice Admiral Scott Swift, commander of the US 7th Fleet, on Monday said he regretted the grounding of the USS Guardian, one of the fleet’s minesweepers, on Tubbataha Reef. “As a protector of the sea and a sailor myself, I greatly regret any damage this incident has caused to the Tubbataha Reef,” he said.
In other developments:
• The Transport Department on Monday ordered the Coast Guard to submit an initial report on the extent of the damage to the Tubbataha Reef. Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said the national government was doing a “government-to-government communication with the United States regarding the incident.”
• The Coast Guard has dispatched a team on board an environmental protection vessel to help the crew of the USS Guardian. Coast Guard spokesman Armand Balilo said the BRP Corregidor will also bring equipment such as an oil spill boom, a skimmer and oil dispersant chemicals.
• Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said the House of Representatives will conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation on the case of the USS Guardian. “We want to know why they were there and what they were doing there,” he said.
Meanwhile, bad weather in the Sulu Sea is preventing the United States Navy from extricating the USS Guardian, Lt. Gen. James Stock said. “There are no further updates since our last press release,” Stock said. “The extent of damage to the USS Guardian is currently under investigation, but bad weather is hindering our progress.”
Abaya said there will be a meeting today to determine whether the USS Guardian will be salvaged or brought up using a heavy lifting ship and a timetable for extricating it. He said a US naval reserve salvage ship was also set to arrive on Thursday.
The government has formed a task force led by the Coast Guard that will oversee the salvage and maritime environmental protection operations. The task force will be composed of units from the Navy Western Command, Philippine National Police and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
“For the salvage operations, we will vet the plans of the US Navy and we will likewise be abreast of every plan and detail what will be conducted and implemented,” Abaya said. “Foremost in these salvage operations is that the procedure should cause the minimum damage to reef or no further damage to the reef.”
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/01/22/us-ships-presence-in-palawan-defended/
There was nothing irregular about the presence of the United States minesweeper USS Guardian in the protected and restricted Palawan waters where it ran aground on Tubbataha Reef, Malacañang said Monday. “I confirmed with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin that there was such a port call request made for Puerto Princesa by USS Guardian,” presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said. “There was a request made and the request was granted.”
Still, that will not stop the government from demanding that the United States Navy pay for the damage suffered by the reef, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the cost of removing the vessel.
Transport Secretary Joseph Abaya said the Philippines also expected the US to sanction the captain of the USS Guardian that ran aground on Thursday last week.
“Once you ground your vessel—or touch bottom without causing damage—just the fact that you allowed it to touch ground is a mortal sin. I expect they’ll come down hard on their commanding officer,” Abaya said. “As a responsible nation and state and as a strong ally of the Philippines, I assume it goes without saying [that the US will pay for the damage and the cost of salvaging the ship)… The law doesn’t distinguish whether this was negligence or inadvertence or intentional.”
The Tubbataha Management Office has said that the USS Guardian did not have a permit to enter the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, and that the ship’s officers ignored Marine Park rangers when told that they were entering a protected area. When the rangers warned the ship’s officers that they would be boarding it, the ship’s crew took battle positions with their weapons, forcing the rangers to back off.
Vice Admiral Scott Swift, commander of the US 7th Fleet, on Monday said he regretted the grounding of the USS Guardian, one of the fleet’s minesweepers, on Tubbataha Reef. “As a protector of the sea and a sailor myself, I greatly regret any damage this incident has caused to the Tubbataha Reef,” he said.
In other developments:
• The Transport Department on Monday ordered the Coast Guard to submit an initial report on the extent of the damage to the Tubbataha Reef. Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said the national government was doing a “government-to-government communication with the United States regarding the incident.”
• The Coast Guard has dispatched a team on board an environmental protection vessel to help the crew of the USS Guardian. Coast Guard spokesman Armand Balilo said the BRP Corregidor will also bring equipment such as an oil spill boom, a skimmer and oil dispersant chemicals.
• Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said the House of Representatives will conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation on the case of the USS Guardian. “We want to know why they were there and what they were doing there,” he said.
Meanwhile, bad weather in the Sulu Sea is preventing the United States Navy from extricating the USS Guardian, Lt. Gen. James Stock said. “There are no further updates since our last press release,” Stock said. “The extent of damage to the USS Guardian is currently under investigation, but bad weather is hindering our progress.”
Abaya said there will be a meeting today to determine whether the USS Guardian will be salvaged or brought up using a heavy lifting ship and a timetable for extricating it. He said a US naval reserve salvage ship was also set to arrive on Thursday.
The government has formed a task force led by the Coast Guard that will oversee the salvage and maritime environmental protection operations. The task force will be composed of units from the Navy Western Command, Philippine National Police and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
“For the salvage operations, we will vet the plans of the US Navy and we will likewise be abreast of every plan and detail what will be conducted and implemented,” Abaya said. “Foremost in these salvage operations is that the procedure should cause the minimum damage to reef or no further damage to the reef.”
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/01/22/us-ships-presence-in-palawan-defended/
Coballes named 55th Army commander
From the Business Mirror (Jan 21): Coballes named 55th Army commander
THE Armed Forces’ No. 2 man has been appointed Army commander. Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes, 54, current Armed Forces vice chief of staff, will assume the post as the 55th Army commander, replacing Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista who was recently appointed as Armed Forces chief of staff. Coballes served in Mindanao for over 14 years. President Aquino will preside over the change of command ceremonies at Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City, at 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
Coballes is among the most bemedaled officers in the Armed Forces, having been twice awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second-highest award for gallantry in action, for his exemplary combat actions in Maguindanao. He was also the recipient of three Distinguished Service Stars, five Gold Cross Medals for gallantry in action (third highest combat medal), two Bronze Cross Medals, and several Military Merit Medals, and commendations both from the military and other institutions.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mapitagan” Class of 1980, Coballes also served as the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, overseeing military operations in Zamboanga, Lanao provinces, Misamis Occidental and the island-provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
Coballes was also the chief of the Armed Forces Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability, commander of the Armed Forces Disaster Response Task Force and commander of an Armed Forces Wide Service Support Unit. He, likewise, chaired the Armed Forces Housing Board, the Medal for Valor Board, Gender and Development Focal Point Committee and the Legislative Affairs Board.
Coballes finished 15th out of 106 cadets and eventually joined the First Scout Ranger Regiment that was deployed in various places in Mindanao. He led four different Task Groups Panther (TGP), the command and control unit that supervises the operations of Scout Ranger companies. The TGP that he led in Basilan in 1995 was credited for the neutralization of several Abu Sayyaf bandits who were responsible for the kidnapping of civilians in the area.
He was also the battalion commander of the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion that was employed to confront the armed threats in Maguindanao and North Cotabato from 1997-2000. He successfully headed the Filipino Peacekeeping Unit that served under the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (Untaet) from 2001 to 2002. Holding then the rank of lieutenant colonel, he led the 604-strong Filipino contingent that helped international peacekeeping operations in East Timor during its transition to an independent state.
He also commanded the Army’s 105th Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division in Basilan; and also the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, 10th Infantry “Agila” Division in the Davao area. He also served as the commander of the First Scout Ranger Regiment, Special Operations Command, one of the elite units of the military.
Government panel briefs IMT on talks with MILF
From the Business Mirror (Jan 21): Government panel briefs IMT on talks with MILF
The government panel negotiating peace with Moro separatist rebels has assured the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) that it would ensure carrying out the aspiration of the Bangsamoro or Moro nation in the succeeding talks after the two panels signed last year a commitment to pursue the talks to its conclusion.
The government panel negotiating peace with Moro separatist rebels has assured the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) that it would ensure carrying out the aspiration of the Bangsamoro or Moro nation in the succeeding talks after the two panels signed last year a commitment to pursue the talks to its conclusion.
On January 10 the government panel convened for the first time the full contingent of the IMT to brief it on the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the general commitment of both sides that they would continue with the talks toward a peace settlement before President Aquino steps down in. In the briefing, government panel member Senen Bacani said that “whatever inputs they [both panels] may have, the result will embody the true aspirations of the Bangsamoro.”
“There will be deliberate efforts made in that regard so that hopefully the final product, will have ownership of all of the governed,” Bacani said, saying that “many of the details [of the framework agreement] would have to be done after due consultations with the stakeholders.”
Bacani urged the IMT members to continue to work with the negotiating panels to reach a just and lasting peace in Mindanao. “We have to work together in this because the end goal is the same. The government as well as the MILF, together with all the peoples of Bangsamoro, want a just and lasting peace,” he said.
The 55-member IMT is tasked to monitor the cease-fire, humanitarian, rehabilitation and socioeconomic agreements between the government and the MILF, the statement released by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (Opapp) said.
The IMT is composed of member-countries Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Libya and Norway. Malaysia formed the IMT after the two panels agreed to an international cease-fire monitoring team. The European Union has two representatives in the team, as well as the non-governmental organizations, which have four representatives sitting in the Civilian Protection Component of the IMT.
The Opapp statement said IMT-7 Head of Mission Dato Abdul Rahim Bin Mohd Yusoff had promised that the IMT would continue to work with the panels “in sustaining the cease-fire and security of the current government-MILF peace process.”
Bacani and fellow government panelist, Yasmin Busran-Lao, led the briefing held at the headquarters of the Army’s 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. “With you on the ground and as one of our great partners in committing peace, I think it is very important that you should be kept updated on what’s happening in the peace talks,” Busran-Lao said. She cited the presence of the unit in the talks, saying that since its establishment in 2004, “the IMT has efficiently helped in the significant decrease of recorded cease-fire violations between the government and MILF.”
The IMT operates in the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga-Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Palawan, the Opapp said.
Talks to resolve contentious points
From the Business World (Jan 21): Talks to resolve contentious points
GOVERNMENT AND Moro negotiators yesterday began crucial talks in Kuala Lumpur to settle contentious provisions that will give teeth to a peace plan inked last October. “In this round of talks we aim to settle the few remaining issues across the four annexes that together with the framework agreement will comprise the comprehensive agreement,” chief negotiator for the government Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said in an opening statement.
The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed in Malacañang required the drawing up of annexes on key concerns. “These issues pertain to jurisdiction over natural resources; transportation and communication; the extent of territorial waters; taxing powers; timetables for decommissioning and demilitarization; policing structures; the transition authority, among others,” Ms. Ferrer said.
An agreement on the remaining issues will round up the comprehensive peace deal to end the long-standing conflict in Mindanao. “To get any farther toward these goals, we first have to produce a comprehensive agreement that will measure up to the core needs of the Bangsamoro advocates, on the one hand, and at the same time stand the scrutiny of the skeptics and all those who will coexist with each other under the Bangsamoro government,” Ms. Ferrer said. She reiterated that the peace deal could be signed within the first quarter.
TRANSITION LEADERSHIP
Meanwhile, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) yesterday said it wants to immediately settle the issue on leadership of the transition body. Jun Mantawil, head of the MILF peace panel secretariat, said the leadership of the body -- which will oversee the change in governance to the Bangsamoro from the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) -- is among major contentious points during the last negotiations.
The previous talks failed to finalize key annexes that will complete the peace plan. Both panels were at odds on the leadership of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority that will temporarily replace the ARMM. The MILF wants to lead the body, while the government is pushing the inclusion of other Moro groups. Aside from membership in the authority, he said the MILF also wants to settle the provision on power sharing, but admitted that “the remaining unsettled issues are very hard to resolve.”
As this developed, both parties are expected to renew the tour of duty of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) led by Malaysian forces. “I am sure the IMT’s tour of duty will be extended,” Mr. Mantawil told BusinessWorld. IMT is the peace-keeping force that also groups Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Libya and Norway. Two representatives from the European Union and four others from nongovernmental groups are involved in the civilian protection component.
For his part, MILF Chairman Murad Ebrahim said he is positive the comprehensive agreement will be achieved at the soonest. “Indeed, the MILF is very optimistic that the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro will be a successful negotiated political solution given the strong commitment of both the GPH (government of the Philippines) and MILF, the Malaysian government being the third-party facilitator and the overwhelming commitment of support from the international community and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation,” Mr. Murad said during the three-day “Malay Archipelago Seminar -- Islam in Southeast Asia: Challenges and Hopes” held last weekend in Kuala Lumpur.
The peace plan, he noted, will be beneficial to both sides with the “facilitation” of Malaysia. “The MILF, the Bangsamoro and even the Filipino people could not thank enough Malaysia for its role and contribution in the success of the GPH-MILF peace process,” he said.
GOVERNMENT AND Moro negotiators yesterday began crucial talks in Kuala Lumpur to settle contentious provisions that will give teeth to a peace plan inked last October. “In this round of talks we aim to settle the few remaining issues across the four annexes that together with the framework agreement will comprise the comprehensive agreement,” chief negotiator for the government Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said in an opening statement.
The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed in Malacañang required the drawing up of annexes on key concerns. “These issues pertain to jurisdiction over natural resources; transportation and communication; the extent of territorial waters; taxing powers; timetables for decommissioning and demilitarization; policing structures; the transition authority, among others,” Ms. Ferrer said.
An agreement on the remaining issues will round up the comprehensive peace deal to end the long-standing conflict in Mindanao. “To get any farther toward these goals, we first have to produce a comprehensive agreement that will measure up to the core needs of the Bangsamoro advocates, on the one hand, and at the same time stand the scrutiny of the skeptics and all those who will coexist with each other under the Bangsamoro government,” Ms. Ferrer said. She reiterated that the peace deal could be signed within the first quarter.
TRANSITION LEADERSHIP
Meanwhile, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) yesterday said it wants to immediately settle the issue on leadership of the transition body. Jun Mantawil, head of the MILF peace panel secretariat, said the leadership of the body -- which will oversee the change in governance to the Bangsamoro from the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) -- is among major contentious points during the last negotiations.
The previous talks failed to finalize key annexes that will complete the peace plan. Both panels were at odds on the leadership of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority that will temporarily replace the ARMM. The MILF wants to lead the body, while the government is pushing the inclusion of other Moro groups. Aside from membership in the authority, he said the MILF also wants to settle the provision on power sharing, but admitted that “the remaining unsettled issues are very hard to resolve.”
As this developed, both parties are expected to renew the tour of duty of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) led by Malaysian forces. “I am sure the IMT’s tour of duty will be extended,” Mr. Mantawil told BusinessWorld. IMT is the peace-keeping force that also groups Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Libya and Norway. Two representatives from the European Union and four others from nongovernmental groups are involved in the civilian protection component.
For his part, MILF Chairman Murad Ebrahim said he is positive the comprehensive agreement will be achieved at the soonest. “Indeed, the MILF is very optimistic that the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro will be a successful negotiated political solution given the strong commitment of both the GPH (government of the Philippines) and MILF, the Malaysian government being the third-party facilitator and the overwhelming commitment of support from the international community and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation,” Mr. Murad said during the three-day “Malay Archipelago Seminar -- Islam in Southeast Asia: Challenges and Hopes” held last weekend in Kuala Lumpur.
The peace plan, he noted, will be beneficial to both sides with the “facilitation” of Malaysia. “The MILF, the Bangsamoro and even the Filipino people could not thank enough Malaysia for its role and contribution in the success of the GPH-MILF peace process,” he said.
Video: US Navy ship still stuck at world heritage site
From ABS-CBN (Jan 21): Video: US Navy ship still stuck at world heritage site
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Se86w5vksAc
The Philippines is set to claim damages from the United States for the grounding of its navy vessel at Tubbataha Reef. Authorities are now coordinating with a team from the US on plans to remove the ship from the world heritage site. - Prime Time, ANC, January 21, 2013
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/-depth/01/21/13/us-navy-ship-still-stuck-world-heritage-site
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Se86w5vksAc
The Philippines is set to claim damages from the United States for the grounding of its navy vessel at Tubbataha Reef. Authorities are now coordinating with a team from the US on plans to remove the ship from the world heritage site. - Prime Time, ANC, January 21, 2013
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/-depth/01/21/13/us-navy-ship-still-stuck-world-heritage-site
Ranking AFP official is next Army chief
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 21): Ranking AFP official is next Army chief
Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes. Photo courtesy of Army Public Affairs
Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes will be the next Commanding General of the Philippine Army, replacing newly installed AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista. Coballes will take over the 80,000-strong Army in a turnover rites Tuesday 3p.m. at the Philippine Army Grandstand in Fort Bonifacio to be presided by Commander-in-Chief and President Benigno Aquino III, spokesman Major Harold Cabunoc said in a statement on Monday.
The incoming Army chief is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1980, the same class which adopted the Aquino sisters as classmates or ‘mistah.’ He graduated 15th of 106 cadets at that time.
Before becoming AFP Vice Chief, Coballes was a distinguished Scout Ranger officer in the field, mostly in war-torn Mindanao. His most recent assignments include heading the Western Mindanao Command in 2012, Army’s First Infantry Division in 2011 and the First Scout Ranger Regiment in Bulacan from April 2008 to January 2011.
He was twice awarded with the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest award in the military service, for his “exemplary combat actions in Mindanao.”
Part of his campaign against terrorism and lawlessness led to the neutralization of 15 Abu Sayyaf Group members and foreign terrorists including Abu Sayyaf leader Umbra Jumdail alias Doctor Abu and two leaders of Jemaah Islamiyah.
He is married to the former Ms Lorna Paglinawan of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte and they have four daughters: Sue Ann, Carolyn, Mae Ann, and Maria Alexis. He will reach the retirement age of 56 on February 7, 2014.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/344239/ranking-afp-official-is-next-army-chief
Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes. Photo courtesy of Army Public Affairs
Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes will be the next Commanding General of the Philippine Army, replacing newly installed AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista. Coballes will take over the 80,000-strong Army in a turnover rites Tuesday 3p.m. at the Philippine Army Grandstand in Fort Bonifacio to be presided by Commander-in-Chief and President Benigno Aquino III, spokesman Major Harold Cabunoc said in a statement on Monday.
The incoming Army chief is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1980, the same class which adopted the Aquino sisters as classmates or ‘mistah.’ He graduated 15th of 106 cadets at that time.
Before becoming AFP Vice Chief, Coballes was a distinguished Scout Ranger officer in the field, mostly in war-torn Mindanao. His most recent assignments include heading the Western Mindanao Command in 2012, Army’s First Infantry Division in 2011 and the First Scout Ranger Regiment in Bulacan from April 2008 to January 2011.
He was twice awarded with the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest award in the military service, for his “exemplary combat actions in Mindanao.”
Part of his campaign against terrorism and lawlessness led to the neutralization of 15 Abu Sayyaf Group members and foreign terrorists including Abu Sayyaf leader Umbra Jumdail alias Doctor Abu and two leaders of Jemaah Islamiyah.
He is married to the former Ms Lorna Paglinawan of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte and they have four daughters: Sue Ann, Carolyn, Mae Ann, and Maria Alexis. He will reach the retirement age of 56 on February 7, 2014.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/344239/ranking-afp-official-is-next-army-chief
SolCom seeks swift NBI probe on Atimonan case
From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): SolCom
seeks swift NBI probe on Atimonan case
The leadership of the Southern Luzon Command of the Army where the 25 soldiers involved in the Atimonan incident are detailed on Monday called on the National Bureau of Investigation for a swift probe on the case for the "truth" to come out.
Solcom spokesman Col. Generoso Bolina made the call to NBI so that the operations of the unit would return to normal. "We are calling on the concerned agency for a speedy resolution of the case so that truth will come out and we can move on," Bolina said in an interview.
Bolina said the soldiers, including those enlisted personnel dragged in the Atinoman operation, are still restricted to barracks pending the result of the investigation of the case.
The 25 soldiers were involved in the operation in Brgy. Lumutan, Atimonan, Quezon province last Jan. 6 where 13 people were killed, including suspected jueteng kingpin Vic Siman.
Earlier, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said she will submit to the Office of the President the result of the probe by the National Bureau of Investigation this week.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899495/solcom-seeks-swift-nbi-probe-atimonan-case
The leadership of the Southern Luzon Command of the Army where the 25 soldiers involved in the Atimonan incident are detailed on Monday called on the National Bureau of Investigation for a swift probe on the case for the "truth" to come out.
Solcom spokesman Col. Generoso Bolina made the call to NBI so that the operations of the unit would return to normal. "We are calling on the concerned agency for a speedy resolution of the case so that truth will come out and we can move on," Bolina said in an interview.
Bolina said the soldiers, including those enlisted personnel dragged in the Atinoman operation, are still restricted to barracks pending the result of the investigation of the case.
The 25 soldiers were involved in the operation in Brgy. Lumutan, Atimonan, Quezon province last Jan. 6 where 13 people were killed, including suspected jueteng kingpin Vic Siman.
Earlier, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said she will submit to the Office of the President the result of the probe by the National Bureau of Investigation this week.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899495/solcom-seeks-swift-nbi-probe-atimonan-case
DND: Gov’t permitted US ship to enter Phl
From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): DND:
Gov’t permitted US ship to enter Phl
The presence of the United States Navy’s minesweeper USS Guardian in the country is legal and allowed by both the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Department of Foreign Affairs. DND spokesperson Peter Paul Galvez said in a radio interview on Monday that the ship currently aground off Sulu Sea’s Tubbataha Reef has permission to enter the coastal region, but why it got stuck will be further investigated by the agency. “That is what we are trying to learn and we are still waiting for reports on why (the ship) reached the area,” Galvez said in Filipino.
The US Navy Pacific Fleet earlier said the crew of the vessel reportedly used erroneous nautical data that caused it to skid among the country’s most important marine sanctuaries.
The damages of the wreckage on the reef initially reported to be at least 10 meters in length may even worsen while the ship remains in place, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said.
The DENR’s Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau Director Theresa Lim said on Monday that ruined parts of the reef are expected to widen as winds and waves continue to shake the vessel, which has been stranded since January 17. “Our assumption is that the length of the ship or the area which skidded (in the reef) is damaged … but upon seeing the last few days’ weather conditions, the ship has been moving because the waves push against it,” Lim said.
She added that marine park rangers had already been assigned to monitor the reef, considered to be a national marine park.Lim also said that the agency hopes the vessel can be extracted from the coral ridge immediately.
Militant groups led by Bayan, meanwhile, protested before the US Embassy in Manila against the stranded ship and condemned Americans’ alleged abuse of the country’s natural resources. Bayan Southern Tagalog Secretary General Erica Chiong told reporters that the US, besides dumping toxic substances off Subic Bay in 2012, had been bringing their nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers into the country. Chiong added that junking the Visiting Forces Agreement between the country and the US will protect Philippine coasts.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/01/21/899493/dnd-govt-permitted-us-ship-enter-phl
The presence of the United States Navy’s minesweeper USS Guardian in the country is legal and allowed by both the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Department of Foreign Affairs. DND spokesperson Peter Paul Galvez said in a radio interview on Monday that the ship currently aground off Sulu Sea’s Tubbataha Reef has permission to enter the coastal region, but why it got stuck will be further investigated by the agency. “That is what we are trying to learn and we are still waiting for reports on why (the ship) reached the area,” Galvez said in Filipino.
The US Navy Pacific Fleet earlier said the crew of the vessel reportedly used erroneous nautical data that caused it to skid among the country’s most important marine sanctuaries.
The damages of the wreckage on the reef initially reported to be at least 10 meters in length may even worsen while the ship remains in place, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said.
The DENR’s Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau Director Theresa Lim said on Monday that ruined parts of the reef are expected to widen as winds and waves continue to shake the vessel, which has been stranded since January 17. “Our assumption is that the length of the ship or the area which skidded (in the reef) is damaged … but upon seeing the last few days’ weather conditions, the ship has been moving because the waves push against it,” Lim said.
She added that marine park rangers had already been assigned to monitor the reef, considered to be a national marine park.Lim also said that the agency hopes the vessel can be extracted from the coral ridge immediately.
Militant groups led by Bayan, meanwhile, protested before the US Embassy in Manila against the stranded ship and condemned Americans’ alleged abuse of the country’s natural resources. Bayan Southern Tagalog Secretary General Erica Chiong told reporters that the US, besides dumping toxic substances off Subic Bay in 2012, had been bringing their nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers into the country. Chiong added that junking the Visiting Forces Agreement between the country and the US will protect Philippine coasts.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/01/21/899493/dnd-govt-permitted-us-ship-enter-phl
Troops, MILF help settle rido in Basilan
From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): Troops,
MILF help settle rido in Basilan
The military and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MNLF) forces jointly settled a dispute between warring clans, ending two decades of deadly conflict in Sumisip town, Basilan province, an official said. The clans also signed a peace pact Monday. The participation of the MILF in the settlement of rido (clan war) has signalled the unofficial cessation of hostility between the rebel group and and the military forces, the military officer said.
Col. Carlito Galvez, commander of the 104th Army Brigade, said his command and the MILF Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Force (BIAF) leadership under Dan Laksaw Asnawi and Hud Limaya jointly worked for the settlement of rido between the warring families of Mingkong and Bakal. Asnawi, an MILF leader, and his forces had figured in more than half a decade of bitter hostilities that saw the beheading of a number of soldiers in the province.
The pact signing was witnessed by 400 to 500 BIAF fighters and close to 4,000 of their families with the presence of military forces led by Col. Galvez, and Asnawi, Limaya, and Commander Abas Salonga of the MILF ad hoc joint action group (AJAG), the ceasefire monitoring body.
The feud between the two clans stemmed from issues of land disputes to political disagreement for 20 years that left scores of deaths from both warring clans, Galvez said. However, Galvez underscored the participation of MILF leaders Asnawi and Limaya and their forces in the rido settlement programs as it also developed trust among the military forces. “It was a good confidence-building for both our forces and their forces,” Galvez said.
Asnawi and his forces were the subject of the military operations after the MILF leader allegedly led the attack and the beheading of 14 marines in Barangay Guinanta, Al-Barka town in 2007 and the attack and killing of 19 Army Special Forces in 2011 in Tuburan town. Galvez was confident the case of Asnawi will not affect their relationship with MILF in jointly helping settle clan war in the province as the higher level of command government leaders will determine whether there will be a general amnesty for the wanted MILF leaders.
Galvez said the participation of the MILF forces have also made their coordination stronger with the rebel faction. “Our MILF brothers [are no longer wary of leaving their areas]," Galvez said. The military officer said the MILF forces have also helped in the interdiction of criminals and kidnappers and preventing the latter from making Basilan areas as their refuge to keep their hostages.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899517/troops-milf-help-settle-rido-basilan
The military and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MNLF) forces jointly settled a dispute between warring clans, ending two decades of deadly conflict in Sumisip town, Basilan province, an official said. The clans also signed a peace pact Monday. The participation of the MILF in the settlement of rido (clan war) has signalled the unofficial cessation of hostility between the rebel group and and the military forces, the military officer said.
Col. Carlito Galvez, commander of the 104th Army Brigade, said his command and the MILF Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Force (BIAF) leadership under Dan Laksaw Asnawi and Hud Limaya jointly worked for the settlement of rido between the warring families of Mingkong and Bakal. Asnawi, an MILF leader, and his forces had figured in more than half a decade of bitter hostilities that saw the beheading of a number of soldiers in the province.
The pact signing was witnessed by 400 to 500 BIAF fighters and close to 4,000 of their families with the presence of military forces led by Col. Galvez, and Asnawi, Limaya, and Commander Abas Salonga of the MILF ad hoc joint action group (AJAG), the ceasefire monitoring body.
Galvez said that during their first meeting, which was held this month, the
MILF forces under Asnawi and Limaya expressed support to the rido settlement
program being implemented by the police and the military in the province. “The MILF-BIAF saw that the program to settle rido was good and they
supported it and helped the settlement of the long standing rido between the
Mingkong and Bakal families,” Galvez said.
The feud between the two clans stemmed from issues of land disputes to political disagreement for 20 years that left scores of deaths from both warring clans, Galvez said. However, Galvez underscored the participation of MILF leaders Asnawi and Limaya and their forces in the rido settlement programs as it also developed trust among the military forces. “It was a good confidence-building for both our forces and their forces,” Galvez said.
Asnawi and his forces were the subject of the military operations after the MILF leader allegedly led the attack and the beheading of 14 marines in Barangay Guinanta, Al-Barka town in 2007 and the attack and killing of 19 Army Special Forces in 2011 in Tuburan town. Galvez was confident the case of Asnawi will not affect their relationship with MILF in jointly helping settle clan war in the province as the higher level of command government leaders will determine whether there will be a general amnesty for the wanted MILF leaders.
Galvez said the participation of the MILF forces have also made their coordination stronger with the rebel faction. “Our MILF brothers [are no longer wary of leaving their areas]," Galvez said. The military officer said the MILF forces have also helped in the interdiction of criminals and kidnappers and preventing the latter from making Basilan areas as their refuge to keep their hostages.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899517/troops-milf-help-settle-rido-basilan
Battle-hardened general new Army chief
From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): Battle-hardened
general new Army chief
A military officer with extensive combat experience in Mindanao has been named new commanding-general of the Army. Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes, a graduate of Philippine Military Academy class ’80, assumes Tuesday as the 55th chief of the 80,000-strong Army in a ceremony to be held in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. President Aquino was scheduled to preside over the change of command ceremony, which starts at 3 p.m.
Coballes will take over the post vacated by Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, who assumed as chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) last week. “Gen. Coballes is a seasoned combat officer. Most of his assignments were in the field,” AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said in a press briefing. “He (Coballes) is a battle-hardened soldier and has gone through a lot of command positions. He spent 14 years in Mindanao alone,” he added.
Prior to his appointment as Army chief, Coballes was the Vice Chief of Staff of the military. No announcements have been made as to who would succeed Coballes as AFP Vice Chief.
A native of Tuguegarao, Coballes started his military career in the battle fields of Mindanao as platoon Leader of the 26th Infantry Battalion. He then joined the First Scout Ranger Regiment and led troops under the 2ndScout Ranger Battalion. He also led task groups and units that oversee the operations of Scout Ranger companies. These include the Task Group Panther credited for the arrest and killing of several Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Basilan.
Coballes also served as chief of the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion tasked to address security threats in Maguindanao and North Cotabato. Other units he led are the Army’s 105th Infantry Brigade in Basilan, the 1003rd Infantry Brigade in Davao and the Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga.
Coballes is a recipient of several military awards including two Distinguished Conduct Stars, the second highest combat medal for bravery. Other awards he received include three Distinguished Service Stars, five Gold Cross Medals for gallantry in action, the third highest combat medal, two Bronze Cross Medals, and several Military Merit Medals, and Commendations.
Coballes holds a Master's degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College and has completed a strategic human resource management course at the Asian Institute of Management.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899518/battle-hardened-general-new-army-chief
A military officer with extensive combat experience in Mindanao has been named new commanding-general of the Army. Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes, a graduate of Philippine Military Academy class ’80, assumes Tuesday as the 55th chief of the 80,000-strong Army in a ceremony to be held in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. President Aquino was scheduled to preside over the change of command ceremony, which starts at 3 p.m.
Coballes will take over the post vacated by Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, who assumed as chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) last week. “Gen. Coballes is a seasoned combat officer. Most of his assignments were in the field,” AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said in a press briefing. “He (Coballes) is a battle-hardened soldier and has gone through a lot of command positions. He spent 14 years in Mindanao alone,” he added.
Prior to his appointment as Army chief, Coballes was the Vice Chief of Staff of the military. No announcements have been made as to who would succeed Coballes as AFP Vice Chief.
A native of Tuguegarao, Coballes started his military career in the battle fields of Mindanao as platoon Leader of the 26th Infantry Battalion. He then joined the First Scout Ranger Regiment and led troops under the 2ndScout Ranger Battalion. He also led task groups and units that oversee the operations of Scout Ranger companies. These include the Task Group Panther credited for the arrest and killing of several Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Basilan.
Coballes also served as chief of the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion tasked to address security threats in Maguindanao and North Cotabato. Other units he led are the Army’s 105th Infantry Brigade in Basilan, the 1003rd Infantry Brigade in Davao and the Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga.
Coballes is a recipient of several military awards including two Distinguished Conduct Stars, the second highest combat medal for bravery. Other awards he received include three Distinguished Service Stars, five Gold Cross Medals for gallantry in action, the third highest combat medal, two Bronze Cross Medals, and several Military Merit Medals, and Commendations.
Coballes holds a Master's degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College and has completed a strategic human resource management course at the Asian Institute of Management.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899518/battle-hardened-general-new-army-chief
Tubbataha incident won't affect Balikatan - AFP exec
From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): Tubbataha
incident won't affect Balikatan - AFP exec
The grounding of a US warship in Tubbataha Reef would not disrupt the future exercises and engagements between the Philippine and American armed forces, the military said Monday. “This (incident) won’t affect the conduct of our exercises,” Armed Forces spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said when asked whether the grounding would have an impact on the two country’s military engagements. “Nobody wanted that incident to happen,” he added.
In fact, the military is already planning for the next Balikatan exercises between US and Filipino troops to be held this year. “We have been preparing for the Balikatan exercise (as early as) last year,” Burgos said. Burgos added the need to preserve the environment was among the factors considered in their preparations.
Balikatan literally means shoulder to shoulder and is an annual exercise designed to enhance the interoperability between the US and Philippine troops. It was in line with the Mutual Defense Treaty signed by the two countries in 1951.
The military declined to comment on calls by some militants to abrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which allows US troops to hold exercises in the country.
Burgos, however, maintained that the controversial agreement has been beneficial to the military. “Aside form improving our capability and also our interoperability, the benefit we derived is our disaster preparedness. We benefit a lot from (the exercises) considering that we constantly expect calamities (and) we are located in the Pacific Ring of Fire,” he said. “It really means a lot if you are prepared for calamities that may happen.”
On Thursday, US warship USS Guardian ran aground at the Tubbataha Reef’s south atoll off Palawan, raising concerns about its impact on the heritage site. The 1,300-ton, 68-meter-long warship had just completed a port call in Subic Bay and was en route to Indonesia and then on to Timor-Leste to join a training exercise when the grounding occurred. The US Navy said the ship has about 80 crew members.
Known for its extensive coral network, Tubbataha Reef in Sulu Sea is one of only five Philippine sites declared as Word Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The other World Heritage Sites in the country are cultural houses in the town of Vigan in Ilocos Sur, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan, the Rice Terraces in the Cordilleras, and a grouping of baroque churches – San Agustin in Manila, Miag-ao in Iloilo, Paoay in Ilocos Norte and Santa Maria in Ilocos Sur.
Tubbataha, which spans 130,028 hectares, was declared a protected area, which means that swimming or diving in the area requires special permits from the government.
The environmental threat posed by the grounding of the ship has prompted militant groups to call for the scrapping of the VFA and the Mutual Defense Treaty. The Communist Party of the Philippines has also condemned what it called the “incursion” of the US military into the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. “The entry of the USS Guardian in the protected area without prior notice or authorization shows the arrogance of the US military who swagger around Philippine territory in complete disregard of Philippine sovereignty,” CPP said in a statement. “The failure of the Aquino government to stand up against the persistent incursions of the US in Philippine territory reveals its puppetry to the US imperialists,” it added.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899522/tubbataha-incident-wont-affect-balikatan-afp-exec
The grounding of a US warship in Tubbataha Reef would not disrupt the future exercises and engagements between the Philippine and American armed forces, the military said Monday. “This (incident) won’t affect the conduct of our exercises,” Armed Forces spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said when asked whether the grounding would have an impact on the two country’s military engagements. “Nobody wanted that incident to happen,” he added.
In fact, the military is already planning for the next Balikatan exercises between US and Filipino troops to be held this year. “We have been preparing for the Balikatan exercise (as early as) last year,” Burgos said. Burgos added the need to preserve the environment was among the factors considered in their preparations.
Balikatan literally means shoulder to shoulder and is an annual exercise designed to enhance the interoperability between the US and Philippine troops. It was in line with the Mutual Defense Treaty signed by the two countries in 1951.
The military declined to comment on calls by some militants to abrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which allows US troops to hold exercises in the country.
Burgos, however, maintained that the controversial agreement has been beneficial to the military. “Aside form improving our capability and also our interoperability, the benefit we derived is our disaster preparedness. We benefit a lot from (the exercises) considering that we constantly expect calamities (and) we are located in the Pacific Ring of Fire,” he said. “It really means a lot if you are prepared for calamities that may happen.”
On Thursday, US warship USS Guardian ran aground at the Tubbataha Reef’s south atoll off Palawan, raising concerns about its impact on the heritage site. The 1,300-ton, 68-meter-long warship had just completed a port call in Subic Bay and was en route to Indonesia and then on to Timor-Leste to join a training exercise when the grounding occurred. The US Navy said the ship has about 80 crew members.
Known for its extensive coral network, Tubbataha Reef in Sulu Sea is one of only five Philippine sites declared as Word Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The other World Heritage Sites in the country are cultural houses in the town of Vigan in Ilocos Sur, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan, the Rice Terraces in the Cordilleras, and a grouping of baroque churches – San Agustin in Manila, Miag-ao in Iloilo, Paoay in Ilocos Norte and Santa Maria in Ilocos Sur.
Tubbataha, which spans 130,028 hectares, was declared a protected area, which means that swimming or diving in the area requires special permits from the government.
The environmental threat posed by the grounding of the ship has prompted militant groups to call for the scrapping of the VFA and the Mutual Defense Treaty. The Communist Party of the Philippines has also condemned what it called the “incursion” of the US military into the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. “The entry of the USS Guardian in the protected area without prior notice or authorization shows the arrogance of the US military who swagger around Philippine territory in complete disregard of Philippine sovereignty,” CPP said in a statement. “The failure of the Aquino government to stand up against the persistent incursions of the US in Philippine territory reveals its puppetry to the US imperialists,” it added.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/21/899522/tubbataha-incident-wont-affect-balikatan-afp-exec
Iligan blast injures 9
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Jan 21): Iligan blast injures 9
Nine persons, including a policeman, were wounded when a bomb exploded in front of a pawnshop in Iligan City Monday morning. Police Superintendent Ronnie Francis Cariaga, spokesperson of Police Regional Office (PRO), said the bomb went off in front of M. Lhuillier pawnshop located along Mercado Street Quezon Avenue Poblacion around 10:15 a.m.
Among those wounded is Police Officer 1 Diosdado “Jun” Cabahug Jr. who was walking towards his car when the bomb, an improvised explosive device, went off. Police authorities are eyeing personal grudge as motive of the explosion after Cabahug admitted he was the target of the suspects.
Cariaga told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that based on their initial investigation, the explosive was placed in a bicycle parked in front of the pawnshop. Cabahug said the bicycle was parked right beside his car. “The bicycle was not yet there when I entered the pawnshop,” he said.
Aside from Cabahug, among those wounded are Roel Asero, 33, security guard of M. Lhuillier and a resident of Pala-o in Iligan City; Charlie Florida, 23, a resident of Mercado-Quezon Avenue Streets Poblacion; Raul Padilla, 48; Ryan Mohammad, 10; Jenmark Asilo, 27; Socorro Alquiza, 70, a resident of Suarez; and Erwin Binsal, 35, of Tambacan, all from Iligan City. Florida was seriously injured in his hips and left leg. The victims were all rushed to the Don Gregorio T. Lluch hospital for treatment.
Iligan City Police Director Senior Superintendent Raul Diones said they are still doing further investigation on the explosion. “We are still identifying the suspects. We are also investigating PO1 Cabahug on why he was the target of the explosion,” Diones said. The explosion has reportedly caused fear among the residents as they called on the City Government to investigate the spate of bombings in the city.
Last December 24, a bomb exploded inside a rented room at the second floor of Nigra Lodging House in Iligan City. No one was killed or injured in the blast. Last May 2012, a bomb also exploded outside El Centro bar, which killed two people and injured 21 others.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2013/01/21/iligan-blast-injures-9-263958
Nine persons, including a policeman, were wounded when a bomb exploded in front of a pawnshop in Iligan City Monday morning. Police Superintendent Ronnie Francis Cariaga, spokesperson of Police Regional Office (PRO), said the bomb went off in front of M. Lhuillier pawnshop located along Mercado Street Quezon Avenue Poblacion around 10:15 a.m.
Among those wounded is Police Officer 1 Diosdado “Jun” Cabahug Jr. who was walking towards his car when the bomb, an improvised explosive device, went off. Police authorities are eyeing personal grudge as motive of the explosion after Cabahug admitted he was the target of the suspects.
Cariaga told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that based on their initial investigation, the explosive was placed in a bicycle parked in front of the pawnshop. Cabahug said the bicycle was parked right beside his car. “The bicycle was not yet there when I entered the pawnshop,” he said.
Aside from Cabahug, among those wounded are Roel Asero, 33, security guard of M. Lhuillier and a resident of Pala-o in Iligan City; Charlie Florida, 23, a resident of Mercado-Quezon Avenue Streets Poblacion; Raul Padilla, 48; Ryan Mohammad, 10; Jenmark Asilo, 27; Socorro Alquiza, 70, a resident of Suarez; and Erwin Binsal, 35, of Tambacan, all from Iligan City. Florida was seriously injured in his hips and left leg. The victims were all rushed to the Don Gregorio T. Lluch hospital for treatment.
Iligan City Police Director Senior Superintendent Raul Diones said they are still doing further investigation on the explosion. “We are still identifying the suspects. We are also investigating PO1 Cabahug on why he was the target of the explosion,” Diones said. The explosion has reportedly caused fear among the residents as they called on the City Government to investigate the spate of bombings in the city.
Last December 24, a bomb exploded inside a rented room at the second floor of Nigra Lodging House in Iligan City. No one was killed or injured in the blast. Last May 2012, a bomb also exploded outside El Centro bar, which killed two people and injured 21 others.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2013/01/21/iligan-blast-injures-9-263958
Stranded US Navy ship 'ignored warnings'
From Rappler (Jan 21): Stranded US Navy ship 'ignored warnings'
A US Navy minesweeper that has been stuck inside Tubbataha Reef Natural Park since last week ignored warnings to avoid the area, a government official said Monday, January 21.The comments from the marine park superintendent, Angelique Songco, added to growing anger in the country over the incident, for which the US Navy has apologized but may still face fines.
Park rangers radioed the USS Guardian to advise it was nearing the Tubbataha Reef early on Thursday morning, but the ship captain insisted they raise their complaint with the US embassy, Songco told reporters. She said that shortly after the warning, the 68 m vessel became stuck on part of reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Sulu Sea about 130 km southeast of Palawan. The site is protected by Philippine law and is off-limits to navigation except for research or tourism purposes approved by the park management.
Songco -- who on Friday filed an official protest over the behavior of the ship's commanding officer -- said it was too early to assess the damage to the corals and the corresponding fines, with the vessel still stuck on the reef and being battered by big waves.
'Too dangerous' to assess damage now
Asked about the incident, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya explained that the government will conduct its own investigation and damage assessment, but only after the USS Guardian is removed from the reef."We haven’t conducted any investigation [yet] because clearly the logical step, especially if we want to investigate the damage to the reef, is to first pull out the vessel," Abaya said during in a press conference in Malacañang.
He explained that "it would be too dangerous" to conduct a probe at the same time the boat is being extracted and added that a final plan to salvage the ship should be ready by Tuesday.The USS Guardian's hull is currently at least 17 m aground, but the fact that after turning 90 degrees the ship is now perpendicular to the reef minimizes the risk of further damage to the coral, Abaya said.
"As compared to a situation where only a portion is attached to the reef while the rest is unattached, by the normal course of action of the waves, any object that is perpendicular to the wave direction will be forced by the wave to eventually be parallel with the wave direction," he explained.
Abaya added that the Americans are cooperating, but the government will still verify any claim made by the US Navy official investigation, particularly the alleged faulty navigation charts."I take [that claim] at face value. We weren’t aboard the vessel. Probably they’ve really encountered such problem. But it is best if we verify these stories too and establish our own facts," the DOTC chief said.
Coast Guard to lead fact-finding mission
Before any official investigation, the government ordered the Philippine Coast Guard to lead a fact-finding team to gather information about the incident, Abaya announced. The team will verify why the USS Guardian did not make a scheduled fuel stop in Puerto Princesa en route to Indonesia and why it ended up entering the marine protected area in spite of warnings by park officials.
Abaya said the task force will continue to inform the public about the situation and address eventual legal issues while the salvage operations are ongoing inside the award-winning conservation project. Once the ship is extracted, he added, the environmental damage will be determined by experts from the Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR), close coordination with the military, park officials and the Americans. Abaya also noted that President Benigno Aquino III "is mindful of that national treasure that we have [in Tubbataha] and wanted to make sure that we would be proactive on this [and] we minimize damage."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/20128-stranded-us-navy-ship-ignored-warnings
A US Navy minesweeper that has been stuck inside Tubbataha Reef Natural Park since last week ignored warnings to avoid the area, a government official said Monday, January 21.The comments from the marine park superintendent, Angelique Songco, added to growing anger in the country over the incident, for which the US Navy has apologized but may still face fines.
Park rangers radioed the USS Guardian to advise it was nearing the Tubbataha Reef early on Thursday morning, but the ship captain insisted they raise their complaint with the US embassy, Songco told reporters. She said that shortly after the warning, the 68 m vessel became stuck on part of reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Sulu Sea about 130 km southeast of Palawan. The site is protected by Philippine law and is off-limits to navigation except for research or tourism purposes approved by the park management.
Songco -- who on Friday filed an official protest over the behavior of the ship's commanding officer -- said it was too early to assess the damage to the corals and the corresponding fines, with the vessel still stuck on the reef and being battered by big waves.
'Too dangerous' to assess damage now
Asked about the incident, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya explained that the government will conduct its own investigation and damage assessment, but only after the USS Guardian is removed from the reef."We haven’t conducted any investigation [yet] because clearly the logical step, especially if we want to investigate the damage to the reef, is to first pull out the vessel," Abaya said during in a press conference in Malacañang.
He explained that "it would be too dangerous" to conduct a probe at the same time the boat is being extracted and added that a final plan to salvage the ship should be ready by Tuesday.The USS Guardian's hull is currently at least 17 m aground, but the fact that after turning 90 degrees the ship is now perpendicular to the reef minimizes the risk of further damage to the coral, Abaya said.
"As compared to a situation where only a portion is attached to the reef while the rest is unattached, by the normal course of action of the waves, any object that is perpendicular to the wave direction will be forced by the wave to eventually be parallel with the wave direction," he explained.
Abaya added that the Americans are cooperating, but the government will still verify any claim made by the US Navy official investigation, particularly the alleged faulty navigation charts."I take [that claim] at face value. We weren’t aboard the vessel. Probably they’ve really encountered such problem. But it is best if we verify these stories too and establish our own facts," the DOTC chief said.
Coast Guard to lead fact-finding mission
Before any official investigation, the government ordered the Philippine Coast Guard to lead a fact-finding team to gather information about the incident, Abaya announced. The team will verify why the USS Guardian did not make a scheduled fuel stop in Puerto Princesa en route to Indonesia and why it ended up entering the marine protected area in spite of warnings by park officials.
Abaya said the task force will continue to inform the public about the situation and address eventual legal issues while the salvage operations are ongoing inside the award-winning conservation project. Once the ship is extracted, he added, the environmental damage will be determined by experts from the Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR), close coordination with the military, park officials and the Americans. Abaya also noted that President Benigno Aquino III "is mindful of that national treasure that we have [in Tubbataha] and wanted to make sure that we would be proactive on this [and] we minimize damage."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/20128-stranded-us-navy-ship-ignored-warnings
Military terminates 27-day ceasefire with NDF
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): Military terminates 27-day ceasefire
with NDF
The 8th Infantry Battalion of the army’s 4th Infantry Division has officially terminated the 27-day ceasefire agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) on January 15, 2013. Lt. Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commander of the army’s 8th IB, said Monday the military in Bukidnon has strictly adhered to the ceasefire agreement that took effect on Dec. 16, 2012.
The army has successfully implemented the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (Somo) while maintaining a high sense of professionalism and vigilance throughout the province of Bukidnon, Cuerpo said. He said that the during the 27-day ceasefire, the military has also prevented armed groups, including lawless elements, from perpetrating any forms of hostile actions in Bukidnon.
Cuerpo said that the SOMO provided a chance to soldiers and villagers in conflict areas to celebrate the Christmas holidays peacefully with their families and loved ones. During the period, the military also succeeded in providing humanitarian assistance and actively participated in the rescue and relief operations in communities affected by typhoon Pablo in Valencia, Bukidnon, Davao Oriental, and Compostela Valley provinces, Cuerpo added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489227
The 8th Infantry Battalion of the army’s 4th Infantry Division has officially terminated the 27-day ceasefire agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) on January 15, 2013. Lt. Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commander of the army’s 8th IB, said Monday the military in Bukidnon has strictly adhered to the ceasefire agreement that took effect on Dec. 16, 2012.
The army has successfully implemented the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (Somo) while maintaining a high sense of professionalism and vigilance throughout the province of Bukidnon, Cuerpo said. He said that the during the 27-day ceasefire, the military has also prevented armed groups, including lawless elements, from perpetrating any forms of hostile actions in Bukidnon.
Cuerpo said that the SOMO provided a chance to soldiers and villagers in conflict areas to celebrate the Christmas holidays peacefully with their families and loved ones. During the period, the military also succeeded in providing humanitarian assistance and actively participated in the rescue and relief operations in communities affected by typhoon Pablo in Valencia, Bukidnon, Davao Oriental, and Compostela Valley provinces, Cuerpo added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489227
Soldiers sent to Maguindanao town on peacekeeping mission after village chair's ambush
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): Soldiers sent to Maguindanao town on
peacekeeping mission after village chair's ambush
The Army's 6th Infantry Division has sent peacekeeping forces in a Maguindanao town where a village chair and member of the town council was ambushed and wounded Saturday. Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th Infantry Division spokesman, said elements of the 6th Infantry Battalion have been deployed to Talitay, Maguindanao to maintain law and order and to back up the police in implementation of election gun ban.
At about 4 p.m. Saturday, Barangay Poblacion chairman Musanib Buisan and his two relatives were on board a tricycle when ambushed by gunmen as they enter the town proper. Musanip Buisan, also president of the Talitay Association of Barangay Chairmen, was wounded and two of his relatives were killed. Buisan, a member of the Talitay Sangguniang Bayan, was wounded in his abdomen and is now recuperating at a private hospital here.
Buisan, as ABC president, sits at the Sangguniang Bayan in an ex-officio capacity. His relatives, named only as Guiamad and Gantukan, were killed, the Maguindanao provincial police office said. Accompanied by his two relatives, Buisan on board a tricycle, was heading toward the town proper at about 4 p.m. when gunmen emerged from the roadside and opened fire. His relatives died on the spot. Police remained clueless on the motive of the attackers and their identities.
Hermoso said military intelligence are now helping the police identify the attackers. Elements of the 6th Infantry Battalion were also deployed in Talitay to prevent the escalation of conflict. Buisan is the second village official who survived an ambush since the election period started last Jan. 13.
Hermoso said Maj. Gen. Ceasar Ordoyo, 6th ID chief, has ordered military agents to help identify the ambushers of Buisan and Sonny Kadil, chairman of Barangay Pantar, Banisilan, North Cotabato last week. Kadil and his two unarmed escorts were on board a motorbike when ambushed by gunmen using assault rifles. Kadil survived the ambush but his two escorts, Takanda Mamukao and Muslimin Ampuan, were killed.
Following the separate ambuscades, Ordoyo ordered Army battalion commanders to take precautionary and preventive measures in their area of responsibility as the political climate started to heat up.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489217
The Army's 6th Infantry Division has sent peacekeeping forces in a Maguindanao town where a village chair and member of the town council was ambushed and wounded Saturday. Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th Infantry Division spokesman, said elements of the 6th Infantry Battalion have been deployed to Talitay, Maguindanao to maintain law and order and to back up the police in implementation of election gun ban.
At about 4 p.m. Saturday, Barangay Poblacion chairman Musanib Buisan and his two relatives were on board a tricycle when ambushed by gunmen as they enter the town proper. Musanip Buisan, also president of the Talitay Association of Barangay Chairmen, was wounded and two of his relatives were killed. Buisan, a member of the Talitay Sangguniang Bayan, was wounded in his abdomen and is now recuperating at a private hospital here.
Buisan, as ABC president, sits at the Sangguniang Bayan in an ex-officio capacity. His relatives, named only as Guiamad and Gantukan, were killed, the Maguindanao provincial police office said. Accompanied by his two relatives, Buisan on board a tricycle, was heading toward the town proper at about 4 p.m. when gunmen emerged from the roadside and opened fire. His relatives died on the spot. Police remained clueless on the motive of the attackers and their identities.
Hermoso said military intelligence are now helping the police identify the attackers. Elements of the 6th Infantry Battalion were also deployed in Talitay to prevent the escalation of conflict. Buisan is the second village official who survived an ambush since the election period started last Jan. 13.
Hermoso said Maj. Gen. Ceasar Ordoyo, 6th ID chief, has ordered military agents to help identify the ambushers of Buisan and Sonny Kadil, chairman of Barangay Pantar, Banisilan, North Cotabato last week. Kadil and his two unarmed escorts were on board a motorbike when ambushed by gunmen using assault rifles. Kadil survived the ambush but his two escorts, Takanda Mamukao and Muslimin Ampuan, were killed.
Following the separate ambuscades, Ordoyo ordered Army battalion commanders to take precautionary and preventive measures in their area of responsibility as the political climate started to heat up.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489217
Search on for a soldier, cop captured by NPAs in Comval
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): Search on for a soldier, cop captured
by NPAs in Comval
Members of the 60th Infantry Battalion continued to search the hinterland areas of Laak, Compostela Valley for the soldier and policeman abducted by the rebels on Jan. 17, two days after government ended its observance of the suspension of military operations (SOMO). Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said Private First Class Jezreel Culangao and PO1 Ruel Pasion remain in the hands of their captors who could have fled to Sitio Tugpahan, Brgy. Imelda in Laak town.
Paniza reminded the military and police personnel to be wary of the deception being employed by the rebel movement to score on its propaganda campaign. “We are still looking for the victims. The abduction is a desperate move of the rebels because their legal front failed in their propaganda. While the soldiers and police are busy in providing humanitarian assistance to the survivors of typhoon Pablo, the rebels are busy initiating violent criminal acts,” Paniza said.
He recalled that the rebel in military uniform accosted the victims when they passed on different time at a checkpoint in Sitio Mangob, Barangay Imelda 9 a.m. last Jan. 17. Paniza said the rebels staged a deception when they flagged down the victims. “Culango was on his way to visit his girlfriend in Brgy. Mangloy while PO1 Ruel Pasion, a member of the San Isidro Municipal Police Office just happened to pass by in the area,” he said. Paniza said both Culango and Pasion were off-duty and in civilian attire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489250
Members of the 60th Infantry Battalion continued to search the hinterland areas of Laak, Compostela Valley for the soldier and policeman abducted by the rebels on Jan. 17, two days after government ended its observance of the suspension of military operations (SOMO). Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said Private First Class Jezreel Culangao and PO1 Ruel Pasion remain in the hands of their captors who could have fled to Sitio Tugpahan, Brgy. Imelda in Laak town.
Paniza reminded the military and police personnel to be wary of the deception being employed by the rebel movement to score on its propaganda campaign. “We are still looking for the victims. The abduction is a desperate move of the rebels because their legal front failed in their propaganda. While the soldiers and police are busy in providing humanitarian assistance to the survivors of typhoon Pablo, the rebels are busy initiating violent criminal acts,” Paniza said.
He recalled that the rebel in military uniform accosted the victims when they passed on different time at a checkpoint in Sitio Mangob, Barangay Imelda 9 a.m. last Jan. 17. Paniza said the rebels staged a deception when they flagged down the victims. “Culango was on his way to visit his girlfriend in Brgy. Mangloy while PO1 Ruel Pasion, a member of the San Isidro Municipal Police Office just happened to pass by in the area,” he said. Paniza said both Culango and Pasion were off-duty and in civilian attire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489250
Three more high-powered guns surrendered
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): Three more high-powered guns
surrendered
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- Members of the Cordillera People's Liberation Army (CPLA) recently surrendered three more high-powered firearms to the Army and police officials at the military camp here. The latest batch of surrendered guns came two weeks after other CPLA members gave up 70 more high-powered firearms and 58 guns.
The newly surrendered guns were a 1-GPMG M-60 machine gun with body marking "Fabrique Nationale Herstal Belgique" and two M-16 Armalite rifles. These were accepted by Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcos, assistant division commander, and Police Senior Supt. Franklin Moises Mabanag, Isabela police director, from CPLA members Domingo Dalog of Tinglayan, Clever Dalog of Tabuk City and Obar Liab of Tinglayan, Kalinga.
A day before the newest surrenders of guns, fifty-one sons and daughters of CPLA rebels were integrated anew aside from the initially admitted 58 CPLA integrees two weeks ago.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489273
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- Members of the Cordillera People's Liberation Army (CPLA) recently surrendered three more high-powered firearms to the Army and police officials at the military camp here. The latest batch of surrendered guns came two weeks after other CPLA members gave up 70 more high-powered firearms and 58 guns.
The newly surrendered guns were a 1-GPMG M-60 machine gun with body marking "Fabrique Nationale Herstal Belgique" and two M-16 Armalite rifles. These were accepted by Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcos, assistant division commander, and Police Senior Supt. Franklin Moises Mabanag, Isabela police director, from CPLA members Domingo Dalog of Tinglayan, Clever Dalog of Tabuk City and Obar Liab of Tinglayan, Kalinga.
A day before the newest surrenders of guns, fifty-one sons and daughters of CPLA rebels were integrated anew aside from the initially admitted 58 CPLA integrees two weeks ago.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489273
Government gaining upper hand in fight vs insurgents, says top Army official
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): Government gaining upper hand in fight
vs insurgents, says top Army official
The government is gaining an upper hand in the "war of the minds" of the populace at least in their area of responsibility here in Caraga Region, says a top Army official Monday morning. Lt. Col. Potenciano C. Camba, commanding officer of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, Philippine Army, who was the guest of honor and speaker during the regular Monday flag raising ceremony of the Police Regional Office 13, outlined what he called the "modest contribution" to the Internal Peace and Security (IPAs) operation in the region.
He said that in a span of 14 months in their assignment in the region, his company has put pressure to the Communist movement and the New People's Army operating in the region on several occasions and in various locations. They also prevented the attack of the RTR Patrol Base in the municipality of RTR, Agusan del Norte, discovered the regional headquarters of the CPP/NPA at Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City and received active NPA surrenderees which had contributed to the setback of the Northeastern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NEMRC).
Camba also said with their tactical accomplishments merged with civil military operations, they were able to conduct outreach programs in far-flung barangays, conducting dialogues with the residents and medical and dental outreaches right inside the communist affected barangays. He relayed that in their dialogues, they were able to make the residents aware of the ongoing program of the government for them. These had been made possible, he said, with the assistance of the local government units, the line agencies of the government and the Philippine National Police.
They also brought the government closer to the people in their immersion programs, one of which, he said, was focused on the youths, the "Youth Leadership Summit" for which they partnered with the provincial Philippine National Police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489317
The government is gaining an upper hand in the "war of the minds" of the populace at least in their area of responsibility here in Caraga Region, says a top Army official Monday morning. Lt. Col. Potenciano C. Camba, commanding officer of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, Philippine Army, who was the guest of honor and speaker during the regular Monday flag raising ceremony of the Police Regional Office 13, outlined what he called the "modest contribution" to the Internal Peace and Security (IPAs) operation in the region.
He said that in a span of 14 months in their assignment in the region, his company has put pressure to the Communist movement and the New People's Army operating in the region on several occasions and in various locations. They also prevented the attack of the RTR Patrol Base in the municipality of RTR, Agusan del Norte, discovered the regional headquarters of the CPP/NPA at Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City and received active NPA surrenderees which had contributed to the setback of the Northeastern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (NEMRC).
Camba also said with their tactical accomplishments merged with civil military operations, they were able to conduct outreach programs in far-flung barangays, conducting dialogues with the residents and medical and dental outreaches right inside the communist affected barangays. He relayed that in their dialogues, they were able to make the residents aware of the ongoing program of the government for them. These had been made possible, he said, with the assistance of the local government units, the line agencies of the government and the Philippine National Police.
They also brought the government closer to the people in their immersion programs, one of which, he said, was focused on the youths, the "Youth Leadership Summit" for which they partnered with the provincial Philippine National Police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=489317