From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13): 1,000 MILF rebel returnees to get education aid from TESDA
Education aid is coming to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) communities in the form of technical vocational education and training (TVET) scholarships to help jumpstart development in the Bangsamoro areas.
This is part of TESDA's support to the peace agreement the rebels signed with the government last year.
Secretary Joel Villanueva, director general of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced recently that at least 1,000 scholarship vouchers will be made available to MILF rebel returnees or their dependents to give them access to skills training and jobs.
"We will not live in the peace rhetoric and translate it to genuine development by having a skilled and educated youth who will have jobs or livelihood of their own," Villanueva said after attending the launch of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro with President Benigno Aquino III in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
Sajahatra Bangsamoro or Peace Bangsamoro is the Aquino administration's socio-economic initiative to uplift the health, education and livelihood conditions of the MILF communities.
TESDA, together with the Department of Education and Commission on Higher Education will play a key role in the initiative through the provision of education assistance to MILF members long deprived of government support.
Last year, the government and the MILF, reached a framework agreement, a major breakthrough toward ending a decades-long insurgency in the southern Philippines.
Villanueva said TESDA is looking at education initiatives to support the Aquino administration's long-term vision of helping the region grow and make a dent on development.
"The road to development may take years, but at least now, our brothers and sisters in the MILF are no longer holding guns that destroy, but training tools that build," he said.
During the event, the TESDA chief handed scholarship certificate of commitment to the initial list of 30 beneficiaries from Cotabato City, Lanao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Saranggani, Jolo, and Tawi-Tawi. This will be covered by the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), one of the major programs of the agency.
The scholars who will be selected from various MILF communities will be entitled to free training in TESDA Technology Institutions, free competency assessment, starter tool kits whenever applicable and training allowance of P60 per training day. The funds will be sourced from the Special Sajahatra Bangsamoro budget.
Rebel returnees or their dependents who will be chosen scholars may avail of free training in various qualifications in the following sectors: agri-fishery, tourism, automotive, information technology, construction, and others that may be available based on the demands of the local market.
TESDA will partner with public and private institutions for the training of the scholars.
In areas where there are no training providers, the TESDA Provincial Office will assist the scholars in looking for the nearest provider. Another option is for the institution to conduct the training right in the area where the scholars are located.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1781360731416
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
3ID Commander: Sajahatra Bangsamoro, an example of hope
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13): 3ID Commander: Sajahatra Bangsamoro, an example of hope
The launching of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro by no less than President Benigno Aquino III in Sultan Kudarat is considered by top military officials as an example of not losing hope in attaining peace.
"We will never lose hope in attaining peace, for example right now, who would have thought that there is this great framework (Sajahatra Bangsamoro) with MILF and even the President has gone to the camp," 3rd Infantry Division Commander MGen Jose Z. Mabanta Jr. said during a press conference here in Bacolod City.
Sajahatra Bangsamoro is a concrete, socio economic initiative aimed to uplift the health, education and livelihood conditions of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) communities in Mindanao.
Earlier, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras in a statement said the program is a manifestation that both forces – the government and the MILF – are working closely naming the target beneficiaries of the services to be delivered by government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Agriculture and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
303rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Oscar Lactao who attended a lecture on Peace Through Commerce at the University of St. La Salle in a separate interview told PIA that the Sajahatra Bangsamoro is a good move.
“Now we see that our agreement with the MILF is moving forward which is a very good step and eventually this will start the development of Mindanao,” Lactao added.
Meanwhile, President Aquino in his message during the launching said that with Sajahatra Bangsamoro, we don’t have to wait longer to experience change, what we can do today, we do today
“When once they treated themselves with herbs from the jungle, soon they will have health insurance, and will be cared for by trained doctors and nurses in state-funded health centers. When once children were taught merely the histories of suffering inside their madaris, soon they will also learn that peace can triumph—so long as we open our hearts and allow ourselves to trust our fellow men. And when once they felt oppressed under the cloud of conflict, soon they will feel empowered, illumined by the daylight of peace,” Aquino added.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1031360653194
The launching of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro by no less than President Benigno Aquino III in Sultan Kudarat is considered by top military officials as an example of not losing hope in attaining peace.
"We will never lose hope in attaining peace, for example right now, who would have thought that there is this great framework (Sajahatra Bangsamoro) with MILF and even the President has gone to the camp," 3rd Infantry Division Commander MGen Jose Z. Mabanta Jr. said during a press conference here in Bacolod City.
Sajahatra Bangsamoro is a concrete, socio economic initiative aimed to uplift the health, education and livelihood conditions of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) communities in Mindanao.
Earlier, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras in a statement said the program is a manifestation that both forces – the government and the MILF – are working closely naming the target beneficiaries of the services to be delivered by government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Agriculture and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
303rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Oscar Lactao who attended a lecture on Peace Through Commerce at the University of St. La Salle in a separate interview told PIA that the Sajahatra Bangsamoro is a good move.
“Now we see that our agreement with the MILF is moving forward which is a very good step and eventually this will start the development of Mindanao,” Lactao added.
Meanwhile, President Aquino in his message during the launching said that with Sajahatra Bangsamoro, we don’t have to wait longer to experience change, what we can do today, we do today
“When once they treated themselves with herbs from the jungle, soon they will have health insurance, and will be cared for by trained doctors and nurses in state-funded health centers. When once children were taught merely the histories of suffering inside their madaris, soon they will also learn that peace can triumph—so long as we open our hearts and allow ourselves to trust our fellow men. And when once they felt oppressed under the cloud of conflict, soon they will feel empowered, illumined by the daylight of peace,” Aquino added.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1031360653194
Army says everyone has a stake in peace
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13): Army says everyone has a stake in peace
Everybody has a stake in peace efforts. This was what 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Oscar Lactao said who attended the lecture, "Peace through Commerce: The Global Corporate Role in Promoting More Peaceful Societies" together with his Deputy Commander Col. Jon Aying and other stakeholders from the academe, military, and business leaders at the Sanctuario de la Salle.
“The lecture is very relevant in the Whole of Nation Approach of the Armed Forces of the Philippines wherein everybody has a stake in our peace efforts,” Lactao told PIA.
Business has a lot of ways, power and resources to influence improve peace through job creation, labor standard, stop child labor which can lessen insecurities in certain areas, Lactao added.
Guest lecturer Rev. Fr. Oliver Williams, CSC, Director at the Center for Ethics and Religious Values in Business, Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA, explained the impact of commerce and industry in promoting peace, including the benefits of global economic development through voluntary corporate policies and action that help bring about more peaceful societies.
Based on his lecture, a lot of companies have joined the global combat to promote peaceful societies through their businesses.
Meanwhile, USLS Vice Chancellor for Mission and Development Geoffrey Bob Bergante in his message said that the task of promoting peace is everybody’s business and responsibility in the light of global economic growth and the ever-expanding influence of businesses and industries in fostering peace.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1031360656920
Everybody has a stake in peace efforts. This was what 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Oscar Lactao said who attended the lecture, "Peace through Commerce: The Global Corporate Role in Promoting More Peaceful Societies" together with his Deputy Commander Col. Jon Aying and other stakeholders from the academe, military, and business leaders at the Sanctuario de la Salle.
“The lecture is very relevant in the Whole of Nation Approach of the Armed Forces of the Philippines wherein everybody has a stake in our peace efforts,” Lactao told PIA.
Business has a lot of ways, power and resources to influence improve peace through job creation, labor standard, stop child labor which can lessen insecurities in certain areas, Lactao added.
Guest lecturer Rev. Fr. Oliver Williams, CSC, Director at the Center for Ethics and Religious Values in Business, Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA, explained the impact of commerce and industry in promoting peace, including the benefits of global economic development through voluntary corporate policies and action that help bring about more peaceful societies.
Based on his lecture, a lot of companies have joined the global combat to promote peaceful societies through their businesses.
Meanwhile, USLS Vice Chancellor for Mission and Development Geoffrey Bob Bergante in his message said that the task of promoting peace is everybody’s business and responsibility in the light of global economic growth and the ever-expanding influence of businesses and industries in fostering peace.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1031360656920
Army facilitates organization of Capiz IPs
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 13): Army facilitates organization of Capiz IPs
In an effort to win the respect of the residents of Panay Bukidnon and ensure that development in the community will be unhampered, the Philippine Army facilitated a consultative meeting of 25 indigenous people leaders representing 25 barangays in Tapaz, Capiz, in central Panay.
Datu Ramon Bayaan, who is a Manobo tribal leader from North Cotabato and the Calinog Indigenous People's Organization with the support of the 61st Infantry Battalion and the 310st Infantry Brigade convened the leaders and shared their experiences in organizing the group from Capiz to empower and preserve the indigenous people's cultural communities.
As an offshoot, seven leaders were selected to compose the Interim Working Group who will work in crafting their by-laws that will facilitate the formal organization of the IPs in Tapaz, Capiz. Other issues raised were the need for the Panay-Bukidnon of Tapaz to preserve their cultural heritage and empower their leaders as productive citizens not only of their province but the whole country as well.
Lt. Mary Jane C. Danga, civil military officer of the 6IIB said that Datu Bayaan who is a Manobo tribal leader wanted to share his expertise and experiences in the success of organizing his fellow IPs in North Cotabato.
On the other hand, LTC. Christopher C. Sab-it, commanding officer of 61IB said that with the organization of the IPs, he looks forward to a smooth working relationship with the community resulting in mutual respect and lasting peace.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=971360659261
In an effort to win the respect of the residents of Panay Bukidnon and ensure that development in the community will be unhampered, the Philippine Army facilitated a consultative meeting of 25 indigenous people leaders representing 25 barangays in Tapaz, Capiz, in central Panay.
Datu Ramon Bayaan, who is a Manobo tribal leader from North Cotabato and the Calinog Indigenous People's Organization with the support of the 61st Infantry Battalion and the 310st Infantry Brigade convened the leaders and shared their experiences in organizing the group from Capiz to empower and preserve the indigenous people's cultural communities.
As an offshoot, seven leaders were selected to compose the Interim Working Group who will work in crafting their by-laws that will facilitate the formal organization of the IPs in Tapaz, Capiz. Other issues raised were the need for the Panay-Bukidnon of Tapaz to preserve their cultural heritage and empower their leaders as productive citizens not only of their province but the whole country as well.
Lt. Mary Jane C. Danga, civil military officer of the 6IIB said that Datu Bayaan who is a Manobo tribal leader wanted to share his expertise and experiences in the success of organizing his fellow IPs in North Cotabato.
On the other hand, LTC. Christopher C. Sab-it, commanding officer of 61IB said that with the organization of the IPs, he looks forward to a smooth working relationship with the community resulting in mutual respect and lasting peace.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=971360659261
MNLF To Keep Up Efforts To Free Hostages
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 13): MNLF To Keep Up Efforts To Free Hostages
A Muslim rebel leader says hundreds of his armed fighters will continue efforts to free foreign hostages held by al-Qaeda-linked gunmen in the southern Philippines despite a clash last week that killed scores of combatants on both sides.
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari told the Associated Press late Tuesday that he ordered his men to reassess their plans following the Feb. 3 clash but to resume efforts aimed at securing the safe release of several hostages, including two European men, held by Abu Sayyaf gunmen in Sulu province.
Misuari said the clash killed eight men from his group, including a commander, and several gunmen from the Abu Sayyaf, many members of which have fled from their jungle strongholds in Sulu’s mountainous Patikul town.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/393902/mnlf-to-keep-up-efforts-to-free-hostages
A Muslim rebel leader says hundreds of his armed fighters will continue efforts to free foreign hostages held by al-Qaeda-linked gunmen in the southern Philippines despite a clash last week that killed scores of combatants on both sides.
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari told the Associated Press late Tuesday that he ordered his men to reassess their plans following the Feb. 3 clash but to resume efforts aimed at securing the safe release of several hostages, including two European men, held by Abu Sayyaf gunmen in Sulu province.
Misuari said the clash killed eight men from his group, including a commander, and several gunmen from the Abu Sayyaf, many members of which have fled from their jungle strongholds in Sulu’s mountainous Patikul town.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/393902/mnlf-to-keep-up-efforts-to-free-hostages
Militiaman killed, 3 hurt in alleged NPA attack in Northern Samar
From InterAksyon (Feb 13): Militiaman killed, 3 hurt in alleged NPA attack in Northern Samar
A militiaman was killed and three others, including a civilian, were hurt when suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels harassed troops in Northern Samar Tuesday, the Philippine Army said.
Captain Gene Orense, spokesman of the 8th Infantry Division, said members of the Pinarican Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) were holding a dialogue with residents of Barangay Guindaulan, Rosario town Tuesday noon when an undetermined number of alleged rebels attacked the soldiers.
The resulting firefight led to the wounding of a local resident, identified as Raul Estellero, a resident of Barangay 3. Also hurt were Staff Sergeant Dionald Opilanda, Sgt Arnold Miranda, and militiaman Jonar Estellero. A still unidentified militiaman was also killed.
Lieutenant Colonel Noel Vestuir, commander of the 20th Infantry Battalion, accused the NPA of committing human rights violations by attacking civilians.
“The NPA insurgents once again violated Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law by not sparing civilians from their attack against the government troops,” he said.
Meanwhile, troops from Charlie Company, 20th Infantry Battalion recovered another abandoned NPA camp in Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, Northern Samar on February 9. The camp could accommodate 20 rebels.
Troops recovered ammunition for M14 and M16 rifles and .45-caliber pistol.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/55000/militiaman-killed-3-hurt-in-alleged-npa-attack-in-northern-samar
A militiaman was killed and three others, including a civilian, were hurt when suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels harassed troops in Northern Samar Tuesday, the Philippine Army said.
Captain Gene Orense, spokesman of the 8th Infantry Division, said members of the Pinarican Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) were holding a dialogue with residents of Barangay Guindaulan, Rosario town Tuesday noon when an undetermined number of alleged rebels attacked the soldiers.
The resulting firefight led to the wounding of a local resident, identified as Raul Estellero, a resident of Barangay 3. Also hurt were Staff Sergeant Dionald Opilanda, Sgt Arnold Miranda, and militiaman Jonar Estellero. A still unidentified militiaman was also killed.
Lieutenant Colonel Noel Vestuir, commander of the 20th Infantry Battalion, accused the NPA of committing human rights violations by attacking civilians.
“The NPA insurgents once again violated Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law by not sparing civilians from their attack against the government troops,” he said.
Meanwhile, troops from Charlie Company, 20th Infantry Battalion recovered another abandoned NPA camp in Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, Northern Samar on February 9. The camp could accommodate 20 rebels.
Troops recovered ammunition for M14 and M16 rifles and .45-caliber pistol.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/55000/militiaman-killed-3-hurt-in-alleged-npa-attack-in-northern-samar
Arms cache seized from Lanao del Norte mayor's home
From InterAksyon (Feb 13): Arms cache seized from Lanao del Norte mayor's home
Police look over the large cache of arms and ammunition seized from the home of Pantao Ragat, Lanao del Norte Vice Mayor Lacson Mangotara Lantud and his wife, Mayor Eleanor Dimaporo. (photo from Police Regional Office 10)
An arms cache that included machineguns and grenade launchers was seized from the home of the mayor of Pantao Ragat town in Lanao del Norte Wednesday morning.
Personnel of the police Special Action Force and Criminal Detection and Investigation Group serving a search warrant against Vice Mayor Lacson Mangotara Lantud seized an M60 machinegun, a Browning Automatic Rifle, two M79 grenade launchers, six M203 assault rifles with grenade launchers, nine M14 rifles, two M16 rifles, 14 Garand rifles and six handguns.
Lantud was not home during the raid but his wife, Mayor Eleanor Dimaporo, who was present, was invited for questioning.
Chief Superintendent Catalino Rodriguez, police director for Northern Mindanao, said the search warrant was by Judge Mario dela Cruz Jr. of Branch 22 of the Metro Manila Judicial Branch on a charge of illegal possession of firearms.
As of Wednesday, police reported arresting 864 persons, mostly civilians, for violating the election gun ban and seizing 801 firearms, 29 grenades and 220 bladed weapons.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/54968/arms-cache-seized-from-lanao-del-norte-mayors-home
Police look over the large cache of arms and ammunition seized from the home of Pantao Ragat, Lanao del Norte Vice Mayor Lacson Mangotara Lantud and his wife, Mayor Eleanor Dimaporo. (photo from Police Regional Office 10)
Personnel of the police Special Action Force and Criminal Detection and Investigation Group serving a search warrant against Vice Mayor Lacson Mangotara Lantud seized an M60 machinegun, a Browning Automatic Rifle, two M79 grenade launchers, six M203 assault rifles with grenade launchers, nine M14 rifles, two M16 rifles, 14 Garand rifles and six handguns.
Lantud was not home during the raid but his wife, Mayor Eleanor Dimaporo, who was present, was invited for questioning.
Chief Superintendent Catalino Rodriguez, police director for Northern Mindanao, said the search warrant was by Judge Mario dela Cruz Jr. of Branch 22 of the Metro Manila Judicial Branch on a charge of illegal possession of firearms.
As of Wednesday, police reported arresting 864 persons, mostly civilians, for violating the election gun ban and seizing 801 firearms, 29 grenades and 220 bladed weapons.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/54968/arms-cache-seized-from-lanao-del-norte-mayors-home
Reject NPA campaign policy: Army
From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 13): Reject NPA
campaign policy: Army
The Philippine Army in Negros Occidental yesterday appealed for a sense of responsibility among candidates in the May 13 elections, and enjoined them to reject the so-called “permit to campaign” policy of the New People’s Army.
Contributing funds to the NPA, will make them stronger, at the expense of the people, Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said.
In previous elections, the military had confiscated numerous copies of Permits to Campaign from arrested NPA members, especially in southern Negros, military records show. Under the policy, candidates may only campaign in the so-called NPA controlled barangays if they have the permit.
The campaign period for candidates aspiring for national elective positions started yesterday, while that for local candidates will start on March 29.
While they have not monitored any distribution of PTCs to candidates in Negros Occidental, so far, Lactao said the recent ambush of civilians and policemen in Brgy. Puso, La Castellana, responsibility for which was claimed by the NPA, may also have been aimed at projecting to candidates that they are still a force to reckon with.
In staging an ambush, the NPA killed eight civilians and a policeman, while 12 were injured, Lactao said.
He also said the slain members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team and barangay tanods, are not paramilitary men.
BPAT and barangay tanods are organized to maintain peace and order during fiestas and mediate petty quarrels and simple incidents of theft in the barangay, Lactao said.
The justification of the massacre, by the NPA, Lactao said it shows “they have no remorse whatsoever over the incident.”
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/February/13/topstory5.htm
The Philippine Army in Negros Occidental yesterday appealed for a sense of responsibility among candidates in the May 13 elections, and enjoined them to reject the so-called “permit to campaign” policy of the New People’s Army.
Contributing funds to the NPA, will make them stronger, at the expense of the people, Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said.
In previous elections, the military had confiscated numerous copies of Permits to Campaign from arrested NPA members, especially in southern Negros, military records show. Under the policy, candidates may only campaign in the so-called NPA controlled barangays if they have the permit.
The campaign period for candidates aspiring for national elective positions started yesterday, while that for local candidates will start on March 29.
While they have not monitored any distribution of PTCs to candidates in Negros Occidental, so far, Lactao said the recent ambush of civilians and policemen in Brgy. Puso, La Castellana, responsibility for which was claimed by the NPA, may also have been aimed at projecting to candidates that they are still a force to reckon with.
In staging an ambush, the NPA killed eight civilians and a policeman, while 12 were injured, Lactao said.
He also said the slain members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team and barangay tanods, are not paramilitary men.
BPAT and barangay tanods are organized to maintain peace and order during fiestas and mediate petty quarrels and simple incidents of theft in the barangay, Lactao said.
The justification of the massacre, by the NPA, Lactao said it shows “they have no remorse whatsoever over the incident.”
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/February/13/topstory5.htm
MILF leaders to meet EU top officials
From the MILF Website (Feb 13): MILF leaders to meet EU top officials
Top leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and high officials of the European Union (EU) to meet this afternoon at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
Mohagher Iqbal, Chairman of the MILF Peace Negotiating Panel, relayed the information saying “the meeting involves the MILF Central Committee, MILF top military commanders and more than 10 EU officials from the European Parliament and EU Delegation in The Philippines headed by His Excellency Ambassador Guy Ledoux.
“This is an important meeting and we extend our warmest welcome and gratitude to the EU for having it at Camp Darapanan. This is not our first meeting with the EU Delegation but it will be the first meeting involving the EU Parliament,” Iqbal said.
The European Union is a very committed and strong supporter of the ongoing peace process between e ken the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and MILF, he said.
“We hope EU will continue to provide support and assistance for the peace process particularly on the implementation of the GPH – MLF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) for as long as necessary.
Currently, EU heads the Humanitarian, Rehabilitation and Development (HRD) Component of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) of the GPH – MILF Peace Process.
Tomorrow, Ambssador Ledoux and the EU Parliamentarians will lead the Program Launch of the EU- funded Project “Delivering the Dividends of Peace through Reduction of the Explosives Remnants of War being jointly undertaken by the Foundation Swiss Deminage (FSD) and the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) in Maguindanao.
The GPH and MILF Peace Panel, local government units, GPH – MILF CCCH, and civil society organization, and IMT will be attending the program.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3094:milf-leaders-to-meet-eu-top-officials&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
Top leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and high officials of the European Union (EU) to meet this afternoon at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
Mohagher Iqbal, Chairman of the MILF Peace Negotiating Panel, relayed the information saying “the meeting involves the MILF Central Committee, MILF top military commanders and more than 10 EU officials from the European Parliament and EU Delegation in The Philippines headed by His Excellency Ambassador Guy Ledoux.
“This is an important meeting and we extend our warmest welcome and gratitude to the EU for having it at Camp Darapanan. This is not our first meeting with the EU Delegation but it will be the first meeting involving the EU Parliament,” Iqbal said.
The European Union is a very committed and strong supporter of the ongoing peace process between e ken the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and MILF, he said.
“We hope EU will continue to provide support and assistance for the peace process particularly on the implementation of the GPH – MLF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) for as long as necessary.
Currently, EU heads the Humanitarian, Rehabilitation and Development (HRD) Component of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) of the GPH – MILF Peace Process.
Tomorrow, Ambssador Ledoux and the EU Parliamentarians will lead the Program Launch of the EU- funded Project “Delivering the Dividends of Peace through Reduction of the Explosives Remnants of War being jointly undertaken by the Foundation Swiss Deminage (FSD) and the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) in Maguindanao.
The GPH and MILF Peace Panel, local government units, GPH – MILF CCCH, and civil society organization, and IMT will be attending the program.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3094:milf-leaders-to-meet-eu-top-officials&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
US will protect environment during Tubbataha salvage
From Rappler (Feb 13): US will protect environment during Tubbataha salvage
Preventing further damage to the coral is the top priority of the operation to extricate the USS Guardian from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, the US Navy told Rappler on Wednesday, February 13.
"Mitigating damage to the surrounding environment has been a consideration throughout the process, and will continue to be as we remove [the USS] Guardian," said Lt Frederick Martin, official spokesman for the US Pacific Fleet regarding the stranded minesweeper.
Martin stressed that immediately after the ship ran aground on January 17, the US Navy "worked meticulously to remove potentially harmful materials, including petroleum-based products and human wastewater."
No fuel leaked and 15,000 gallons of diesel were successfully pumped from the vessel, the American officer added.
But removing the hull will be one of the most difficult parts of the salvage operation, currently suspended pending the arrival of the 2nd crane ship Jascon 25 after the 1st one, the SMIT Borneo, was unable to anchor in deep water at a considerable distance from the reef.
"Care will be taken while removing the hull itself, but the specific steps are still being developed," Martin said.
The Gibraltar-flagged Jascon 25 -- currently on its way to Tubbataha from Japan and set to arrive on February 16 -- is the 2nd floating crane that will be used in the salvage operation after the SMIT Borneo, on site since February 6.
The vessels belong to different companies but both are part of the same $25 million contract awarded by the US Department of Defense for private salvaging firms to remove the USS Guardian from the reef.
"Yes, both are part of the SMIT contract," Martin confirmed.
The US Navy spokesman also explained that the Jascon 25 will be the lead vessel because it is equipped with a Dynamic Positioning System, "which means that it doesn't have to lay anchors at all."
"As a result, it will not face the same difficulties the SMIT Borneo did in securing itself before operating," said Martin.
The new leading role given to the Jascon 25 is part of the revised salvage plan that Philippine and Americans authorities are still fine-tuning the process before it is published.
DOST offers help
Almost a month after the crash, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Wednesday for the first time offered assistance to help mitigate damage in the UNESCO World Heritage site and paradise for divers.
“We can do something. We have the technology to help rehabilitate and repair the damage to the coral reef in Tubbataha,” DOST Secretary Mario Montejo said in a statement.
Montejo proposed sending a team of experts in coral reef restoration and using the department's available technology to both work on the coral itself and train more Philippine Coast Guard and Maritime Police divers to do their job.
The estimated damage to the reef has reached at least 4,000 sqm, according to park officials.
The salvage operation is also expected to affect at least two dive sites to be closed off to the public during the official March-June diving season, unless the US Navy is capable of removing the ship by the target date of March 23 if weather and sea conditions are favorable.
Conservation groups such as WWF-Philippines have suggested leaving the vessel there to guarantee no more coral will be destroyed.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/21728-us-will-protect-environment-during-tubbataha-salvage
Preventing further damage to the coral is the top priority of the operation to extricate the USS Guardian from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, the US Navy told Rappler on Wednesday, February 13.
"Mitigating damage to the surrounding environment has been a consideration throughout the process, and will continue to be as we remove [the USS] Guardian," said Lt Frederick Martin, official spokesman for the US Pacific Fleet regarding the stranded minesweeper.
Martin stressed that immediately after the ship ran aground on January 17, the US Navy "worked meticulously to remove potentially harmful materials, including petroleum-based products and human wastewater."
No fuel leaked and 15,000 gallons of diesel were successfully pumped from the vessel, the American officer added.
But removing the hull will be one of the most difficult parts of the salvage operation, currently suspended pending the arrival of the 2nd crane ship Jascon 25 after the 1st one, the SMIT Borneo, was unable to anchor in deep water at a considerable distance from the reef.
"Care will be taken while removing the hull itself, but the specific steps are still being developed," Martin said.
The Gibraltar-flagged Jascon 25 -- currently on its way to Tubbataha from Japan and set to arrive on February 16 -- is the 2nd floating crane that will be used in the salvage operation after the SMIT Borneo, on site since February 6.
The vessels belong to different companies but both are part of the same $25 million contract awarded by the US Department of Defense for private salvaging firms to remove the USS Guardian from the reef.
"Yes, both are part of the SMIT contract," Martin confirmed.
The US Navy spokesman also explained that the Jascon 25 will be the lead vessel because it is equipped with a Dynamic Positioning System, "which means that it doesn't have to lay anchors at all."
"As a result, it will not face the same difficulties the SMIT Borneo did in securing itself before operating," said Martin.
The new leading role given to the Jascon 25 is part of the revised salvage plan that Philippine and Americans authorities are still fine-tuning the process before it is published.
DOST offers help
Almost a month after the crash, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Wednesday for the first time offered assistance to help mitigate damage in the UNESCO World Heritage site and paradise for divers.
“We can do something. We have the technology to help rehabilitate and repair the damage to the coral reef in Tubbataha,” DOST Secretary Mario Montejo said in a statement.
Montejo proposed sending a team of experts in coral reef restoration and using the department's available technology to both work on the coral itself and train more Philippine Coast Guard and Maritime Police divers to do their job.
The estimated damage to the reef has reached at least 4,000 sqm, according to park officials.
The salvage operation is also expected to affect at least two dive sites to be closed off to the public during the official March-June diving season, unless the US Navy is capable of removing the ship by the target date of March 23 if weather and sea conditions are favorable.
Conservation groups such as WWF-Philippines have suggested leaving the vessel there to guarantee no more coral will be destroyed.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/21728-us-will-protect-environment-during-tubbataha-salvage
'President's visit helped heal wounds between MILF, gov't forces'
From the Philippine Star (Feb 13): 'President's visit helped heal wounds between MILF, gov't forces'
Moro guerillas and members of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, led by Major Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo (right) dine together in a boodle fight before heading to President Aquino's launching last Monday of the "Sajahatra Bangsamoro," where he met (left, inset) with Al-Haj Murad, chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. (John Unson)
Monday’s visit of President Benigno Aquino III at the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s bastion in northeastern Maguindanao helped start the healing of “old wounds” between government and rebel forces that both bled and suffered from conflicts in decades past.
The hilly surroundings of the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute in Simuay area in Sultan Kudarat town, where Aquino launched, along with MILF chieftain Al-Haj Murad, the “Sajahatra Bangsamoro,” was, in fact, jointly secured by rebels and Army combatants that figured in most battles that rocked the province in recent years.
The president, in a speech, explained that the Sajahatra program is a convergence of education, health, social welfare and other interventions meant to address poverty and underdevelopment in Moro-dominated areas.
Col. Manolito Orense, commander of the Army’s 603rd Brigade, said he never thought the joint security effort for the presidential visit, meant to ward off saboteurs, will have deep, lasting impact on the battle-hardened combatants from both sides that saw each other only in combat situations during the past “hostile years” in Maguindanao.
It was a traditional Philippine military-style “boodle fight,” or free-for-all meal served on a long table, where soldiers and MILF guerillas ate with their bare hands, that sealed the newly established friendship of the supposedly enemy GPH and MILF forces in the province.
The boodle fight, led by Orense and the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, Major Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo, was part of the activities during the tactical briefing, a day earlier, for the guerillas and soldiers that were to secure the nearby surroundings of the site of Monday’s presidential speaking engagement.
Gordon Zaipullah, a senior MILF guerilla leader, said the boodle fight was something they never thought would ever happen and bring together enemy forces as if they belong to one big family, dining and relating to one another their optimism on the Mindanao peace process.
“Whenever we see each other before, we shoot each other and try to overcome one another with heavy firepower. Now we are cooperating with each other establish lasting peace in Mindanao,” Zaipullah said.
He said there is a big challenge now for the government and MILF to sustain the unity and cordiality that now binds soldiers and guerillas on the ground.
Zaipullah led some of their bloody counter-attacks on military positions in Central Mindanao in 2000 in response to then President Joseph Estrada’s all out war against the MILF.
Estrada’s military adventurism led to the fall of the MILF’s former bastion, Camp Abubakar Assidik, in the tri-boundaries of Maguindanao’s Buldon, Barira and Matanog towns, and the hoisting of the Philippine flag in most of the guerilla enclaves soldiers overran following heavy offensives that exacted heavy casualties on both sides.
For most peace activists, however, Estrada’s all out war policy against the MILF only intensified Moro dissent and catalyzed the group’s expansion in more areas in Mindanao, including the island provinces of Basilan and Sulu, which are known strongholds of the more moderate Moro National Liberation Front.
Gen. Gilberto Jose Roa, chairman of the government’s Coordinating Community on the Cessation of Hostilities, said there is, thus, much reason for them to rejoice over the improving relations among military units and MILF forces scattered in areas covered by the 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities.
Roa and his subordinates in the government’s ceasefire committee all participated in the boodle fight, held at the old Maguindanao provincial capitol compound, only about 500 meters from the venue of Sajahatra’s ceremonial launching.
“This will mean stronger, more comprehensive cooperation in addressing peace and security issues in areas covered by the ceasefire agreement and `zero hostilities’ which is essential in the restoration of normalcy, massive implementation of health, social welfare and other development initiatives in far-flung areas,” said Roa, himself a soldier who saw action in many hostile areas in the south while a junior officer.
Roa said he was delighted hearing from enlisted soldiers, that performed joint security missions for the presidential visit, stories of how their MILF counterparts wished for peace to enable them to till their lands peacefully and send their children to school for them to become responsible professionals.
Soldiers had also shared to their MILF companions how they longed to be together always with their families and how they prayed hard they can return home safely whenever they are deployed to urgent security assignments in combat zones.
“True and noble warriors are always ready to bury their hatchets and reconcile and come to terms beneficial to all. It’s heart rending to see this happening among combatants on the ground. There is tranquil space now, where they can talk to each other and share their visions of peace and development,” Roa said.
There has been a fragile peace in Central Mindanao’s supposedly most dangerous areas for almost two years prior to the Oct. 5, 2012 signing by the government and MILF peace panels of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) in Malacañang.
The FAB, whose four annexes- territory, wealth-and-power sharing, modalities and transitional arrangements- are now being completed by the GPH and MILF panels, aiming to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with a new autonomous political entity.
Records obtained from the regional police offices in Region 12 and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the 6th ID indicate a “zero encounter” between government and MILF forces in Central Mindanao in about 18 months before the symbolic crafting of the FAB.
Pocket hostilities that rocked the areas covered by the government-MILF ceasefire pact during the periods only involved feuding rebel groups whose misunderstandings are now being resolved peacefully by the joint ceasefire committee, the local government units, and traditional Moro leaders and clerics wielding influence over the protagonists.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/02/13/908366/presidents-visit-helped-heal-wounds-between-milf-govt-forces
Moro guerillas and members of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, led by Major Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo (right) dine together in a boodle fight before heading to President Aquino's launching last Monday of the "Sajahatra Bangsamoro," where he met (left, inset) with Al-Haj Murad, chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. (John Unson)
Monday’s visit of President Benigno Aquino III at the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s bastion in northeastern Maguindanao helped start the healing of “old wounds” between government and rebel forces that both bled and suffered from conflicts in decades past.
The hilly surroundings of the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute in Simuay area in Sultan Kudarat town, where Aquino launched, along with MILF chieftain Al-Haj Murad, the “Sajahatra Bangsamoro,” was, in fact, jointly secured by rebels and Army combatants that figured in most battles that rocked the province in recent years.
The president, in a speech, explained that the Sajahatra program is a convergence of education, health, social welfare and other interventions meant to address poverty and underdevelopment in Moro-dominated areas.
Col. Manolito Orense, commander of the Army’s 603rd Brigade, said he never thought the joint security effort for the presidential visit, meant to ward off saboteurs, will have deep, lasting impact on the battle-hardened combatants from both sides that saw each other only in combat situations during the past “hostile years” in Maguindanao.
It was a traditional Philippine military-style “boodle fight,” or free-for-all meal served on a long table, where soldiers and MILF guerillas ate with their bare hands, that sealed the newly established friendship of the supposedly enemy GPH and MILF forces in the province.
The boodle fight, led by Orense and the commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, Major Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo, was part of the activities during the tactical briefing, a day earlier, for the guerillas and soldiers that were to secure the nearby surroundings of the site of Monday’s presidential speaking engagement.
Gordon Zaipullah, a senior MILF guerilla leader, said the boodle fight was something they never thought would ever happen and bring together enemy forces as if they belong to one big family, dining and relating to one another their optimism on the Mindanao peace process.
“Whenever we see each other before, we shoot each other and try to overcome one another with heavy firepower. Now we are cooperating with each other establish lasting peace in Mindanao,” Zaipullah said.
He said there is a big challenge now for the government and MILF to sustain the unity and cordiality that now binds soldiers and guerillas on the ground.
Zaipullah led some of their bloody counter-attacks on military positions in Central Mindanao in 2000 in response to then President Joseph Estrada’s all out war against the MILF.
Estrada’s military adventurism led to the fall of the MILF’s former bastion, Camp Abubakar Assidik, in the tri-boundaries of Maguindanao’s Buldon, Barira and Matanog towns, and the hoisting of the Philippine flag in most of the guerilla enclaves soldiers overran following heavy offensives that exacted heavy casualties on both sides.
For most peace activists, however, Estrada’s all out war policy against the MILF only intensified Moro dissent and catalyzed the group’s expansion in more areas in Mindanao, including the island provinces of Basilan and Sulu, which are known strongholds of the more moderate Moro National Liberation Front.
Gen. Gilberto Jose Roa, chairman of the government’s Coordinating Community on the Cessation of Hostilities, said there is, thus, much reason for them to rejoice over the improving relations among military units and MILF forces scattered in areas covered by the 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities.
Roa and his subordinates in the government’s ceasefire committee all participated in the boodle fight, held at the old Maguindanao provincial capitol compound, only about 500 meters from the venue of Sajahatra’s ceremonial launching.
“This will mean stronger, more comprehensive cooperation in addressing peace and security issues in areas covered by the ceasefire agreement and `zero hostilities’ which is essential in the restoration of normalcy, massive implementation of health, social welfare and other development initiatives in far-flung areas,” said Roa, himself a soldier who saw action in many hostile areas in the south while a junior officer.
Roa said he was delighted hearing from enlisted soldiers, that performed joint security missions for the presidential visit, stories of how their MILF counterparts wished for peace to enable them to till their lands peacefully and send their children to school for them to become responsible professionals.
Soldiers had also shared to their MILF companions how they longed to be together always with their families and how they prayed hard they can return home safely whenever they are deployed to urgent security assignments in combat zones.
“True and noble warriors are always ready to bury their hatchets and reconcile and come to terms beneficial to all. It’s heart rending to see this happening among combatants on the ground. There is tranquil space now, where they can talk to each other and share their visions of peace and development,” Roa said.
There has been a fragile peace in Central Mindanao’s supposedly most dangerous areas for almost two years prior to the Oct. 5, 2012 signing by the government and MILF peace panels of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) in Malacañang.
The FAB, whose four annexes- territory, wealth-and-power sharing, modalities and transitional arrangements- are now being completed by the GPH and MILF panels, aiming to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with a new autonomous political entity.
Records obtained from the regional police offices in Region 12 and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the 6th ID indicate a “zero encounter” between government and MILF forces in Central Mindanao in about 18 months before the symbolic crafting of the FAB.
Pocket hostilities that rocked the areas covered by the government-MILF ceasefire pact during the periods only involved feuding rebel groups whose misunderstandings are now being resolved peacefully by the joint ceasefire committee, the local government units, and traditional Moro leaders and clerics wielding influence over the protagonists.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/02/13/908366/presidents-visit-helped-heal-wounds-between-milf-govt-forces
NDF hit for justifying La Castellana ambush
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13): NDF hit for justifying La Castellana
ambush
Major General Jose Mabanta Jr. of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army on Wednesday slammed the National Democratic Front (NDF)for justifying the killing of nine people in La Castellana last January 27.
“There is no way you can justify that,” Mabanta stressed in response to statement of NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni who claimed that ambush staged by the New People’s Army was "legitimate."
Jalandoni said the ambush was directed to “legitimate targets” – the policeman and eight members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) – tagged as “paramilitaries."
But Mabanta explained in a press conference Wednesday that most of the victims are not paramilitaries but civilians. Even the slain policeman cannot be considered as paramilitary. Only the military auxiliary force known as Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) is considered as paramilitary, he said.
“Majority of the victims are civilians. Nakisakay lang sila but they were finished off by shooting them point blank in their heads,” Mabanta stressed.
Mabanta also said that the ambush in La Castellana cannot prevent both parties from pursuing their impending peace talks. “This should not be a stumbling block. We continue to call for localized peace talk. In fact, our communication lines are open,” he said.
The 3rd ID commander said they continue to ask help from all stakeholders concerned to link them with the rebels so they can start the peace talk in a civilized and orderly manner. “We will never lose hope in attaining peace...if we can’t do it on the top level, we’ll do it on our level. We are willing to talk even to the lowest NPA foot soldier,” he said.
As to the proposed rewards, Mabanta said he is certain that the government will offer rewards to anybody who can help them catch or neutralize the responsible NPA officials.
The Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) has filed nine counts of murder and 14 counts of frustrated murder against the primary suspect Magno Flores, the head of Squad 2 of NPA operating in Central Negros.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=497045
Major General Jose Mabanta Jr. of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army on Wednesday slammed the National Democratic Front (NDF)for justifying the killing of nine people in La Castellana last January 27.
“There is no way you can justify that,” Mabanta stressed in response to statement of NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni who claimed that ambush staged by the New People’s Army was "legitimate."
Jalandoni said the ambush was directed to “legitimate targets” – the policeman and eight members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) – tagged as “paramilitaries."
But Mabanta explained in a press conference Wednesday that most of the victims are not paramilitaries but civilians. Even the slain policeman cannot be considered as paramilitary. Only the military auxiliary force known as Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) is considered as paramilitary, he said.
“Majority of the victims are civilians. Nakisakay lang sila but they were finished off by shooting them point blank in their heads,” Mabanta stressed.
Mabanta also said that the ambush in La Castellana cannot prevent both parties from pursuing their impending peace talks. “This should not be a stumbling block. We continue to call for localized peace talk. In fact, our communication lines are open,” he said.
The 3rd ID commander said they continue to ask help from all stakeholders concerned to link them with the rebels so they can start the peace talk in a civilized and orderly manner. “We will never lose hope in attaining peace...if we can’t do it on the top level, we’ll do it on our level. We are willing to talk even to the lowest NPA foot soldier,” he said.
As to the proposed rewards, Mabanta said he is certain that the government will offer rewards to anybody who can help them catch or neutralize the responsible NPA officials.
The Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) has filed nine counts of murder and 14 counts of frustrated murder against the primary suspect Magno Flores, the head of Squad 2 of NPA operating in Central Negros.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=497045
A cache of high powered firearms seized in Lanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13): A cache of high powered firearms
seized in Lanao
Combined police and military seized a large cache of high powered firearms in a house of a town official in Lanao Del Sur Wednesday dawn.
The police were still making an inventory of the firearms as of press time which initially totaled 44 pieces of assorted long and short firearms, including a machine gun and thousands of assorted ammunitions.
Pol. Senior Supt. Ronnie Carriaga, spokesperson of the PNP regional command here, said that the raiding team armed with a search warrant swooped down on the house of Vice Mayor Lacson Mangutara Langtod of Pantaoragat about 2:30 Wednesday dawn.
He said that only the wife of Langtod, the former town Mayor Eleonor Dimaporo was around when law enforcers served the warrant issued by a judge in Manila through Judge Mario de la Cruz of Lanao Del Sur.
Dimaporo was brought to the regional PNP headquarters here for questioning along with seven members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), and a police mobile car.
The CAFGU were having checkpoint in the area while the police mobile car was recovered in the mayor’s compound when the team conducted the raid Wednesday dawn. He said that the owners of the guns and ammunitions might face charges once proven that those items were illegally acquired.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=497127
Combined police and military seized a large cache of high powered firearms in a house of a town official in Lanao Del Sur Wednesday dawn.
The police were still making an inventory of the firearms as of press time which initially totaled 44 pieces of assorted long and short firearms, including a machine gun and thousands of assorted ammunitions.
Pol. Senior Supt. Ronnie Carriaga, spokesperson of the PNP regional command here, said that the raiding team armed with a search warrant swooped down on the house of Vice Mayor Lacson Mangutara Langtod of Pantaoragat about 2:30 Wednesday dawn.
He said that only the wife of Langtod, the former town Mayor Eleonor Dimaporo was around when law enforcers served the warrant issued by a judge in Manila through Judge Mario de la Cruz of Lanao Del Sur.
Dimaporo was brought to the regional PNP headquarters here for questioning along with seven members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), and a police mobile car.
The CAFGU were having checkpoint in the area while the police mobile car was recovered in the mayor’s compound when the team conducted the raid Wednesday dawn. He said that the owners of the guns and ammunitions might face charges once proven that those items were illegally acquired.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=497127
PHL looking for naval ships with 'frigate capabilities'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 13): PHL looking for naval ships with
'frigate capabilities'
With the contract on the country's next-generation fighter aircraft almost a done deal, Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez Wednesday said the Philippines is determined to acquire naval ships with "frigate capabilities" to help it protect and defend its 36,289 km coastline.
Galvez made the announcement when asked if the DND is in the market for modern offshore patrol vessels to boost the numbers of the Philippines Navy. "(We are looking for ships with) frigate capabilities," he added.
The country has allocated around P11.7 billion to acquire two modern ships of the frigate type to backstop the aging naval assets of the PN by 2014.
Frigates are ships optimized for anti-submarine warfare and have a limited ability to engage aerial targets. They are usually armed with surface-to-surface air missiles, anti-aircraft rockets, torpedoes and a variety of guns.
The DND earlier said five countries have expressed their intention to sell the Philippines modern frigates and offshore patrol vessels which will help the country protect its vast maritime territories. Offers came from the United States, Israel, Croatia, South Korea and even Australia.
All vessels being offered by these nations are brand new. Offers of the above-mentioned countries started coming during the last quarter of 2012. The DND attributed the sudden influx of would-be-suppliers to the fact the Philippine is now seriously upgrading its military forces.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=497116
With the contract on the country's next-generation fighter aircraft almost a done deal, Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez Wednesday said the Philippines is determined to acquire naval ships with "frigate capabilities" to help it protect and defend its 36,289 km coastline.
Galvez made the announcement when asked if the DND is in the market for modern offshore patrol vessels to boost the numbers of the Philippines Navy. "(We are looking for ships with) frigate capabilities," he added.
The country has allocated around P11.7 billion to acquire two modern ships of the frigate type to backstop the aging naval assets of the PN by 2014.
Frigates are ships optimized for anti-submarine warfare and have a limited ability to engage aerial targets. They are usually armed with surface-to-surface air missiles, anti-aircraft rockets, torpedoes and a variety of guns.
The DND earlier said five countries have expressed their intention to sell the Philippines modern frigates and offshore patrol vessels which will help the country protect its vast maritime territories. Offers came from the United States, Israel, Croatia, South Korea and even Australia.
All vessels being offered by these nations are brand new. Offers of the above-mentioned countries started coming during the last quarter of 2012. The DND attributed the sudden influx of would-be-suppliers to the fact the Philippine is now seriously upgrading its military forces.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=497116