MILF: MILF to appoint new ceasefire committee head

From the MILF Website (Apr 21): MILF to appoint new ceasefire committee head

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) through its negotiating peace panel will appoint a new head of its Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) in the light of the appointment of Said Sheikh, currently MILF CCCH chief, to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) last March 15.

This was learned from no less than Mohagher Iqbal, head of the MILF negotiating peace panel and also of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), who told Luwaran that it is time to look for Said’s replacement, saying membership in the BTC requires focus, dedication, and much leg-working.

He described Said as a very competent person, a team-worker, and very loyal to the MILF and the Bangsamoro people’s cause.

“We do not want to replace him,” Iqbal said, “but time has come that we have to do what we do not like.”

Asked to Said’s replacement, Iqbal said he will consult the military arm of the MILF and request them to recommend at least names from where the new MILF CCCH chief would be selected.

Heads of both the government and MILF CCCHs are appointed by their respective peace panel chairmen.

Pressed to provide more clues of who will be that person, Iqbal merely said, “I would prefer him to come from the island provinces,” which he described as emerging new strongholds of the MILF.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/321-milf-to-appoint-new-ceasefire-committee-head

Fact-finding mission decries ‘military harassment’ in Baganga; military denies allegations

From MindaNews (Apr 21): Fact-finding mission decries ‘military harassment’ in Baganga; military denies allegations

A 69-member fact-finding mission documenting the March 4 killing of Baganga village councilor Cristina Jose and the state of the environment in the typhoon-hit areas in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley decried alleged military harassment on Saturday evening, claiming they were “hostaged” in Sitio Cabuyao, Barangay Binondo in Baganga, Davao Oriental.

The military denied the allegations.

“No hostage incident,” Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon told MindaNews Sunday morning.

“A big contingent of 69 participants to a national humanitarian and fact-finding mission is being held hostage in Sitio Kabuyao, Barangay Binondo in Baganga, Davao Oriental. Elements of the 67^th IB in Davao Oriental are responsible for causing the delay of the mission,” said a text message from the group on Saturday evening.

 

It added that soldiers “have been blocking the way of the contingent on April 18, upon entering Sitio Spur Dos, Barangay Ngan (in Compostela Valley, Compostela Valley province), and all throughout the way through the municipality of Cateel… and towards Baganga poblacion.”

The message also said their provisions are “running out,” that “food and water are getting scarce and worst, the (mission members) fear military reprisal.”

“We categorically deny that there is a hostage-taking,” Col. Leonardo Rey Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade told MindaNews in a text message late Saturday night.

“Hosted not hostaged. Hostaged in Cabuyao? There are stranded in Cabuyao after being abandoned by their driver. There is already a rescue effort by 67^th IB,” Guerrero said.

He said there was no harassment in Spur Dos, either. “They were stopped for inspection at a Comelec checkpoint in Aliwagwag.”

“We categorically deny that there is hostage taking. They are on their own in that sitio. They did not coordinate their activities with the LGU (local government unit). Now they are asking for help of the LGU and military are finding ways to assist them from being stranded, not hostaged. Instead, they will be hosted by LGU and military as we are preparing vehicles to pick them up,” Guerrero said.

“Rescue”

Malou Tiangco, a member of the National Fact-Finding Mission and Solidarity Mission (NFFSM or FFM), who sent the group’s text message to MindaNews Saturday night, followed it up with another message: “We are here at Sitio Cabuyao. We are held hostage…. We don’t have food and water,” she said, as she urged Governor Corazon Malanyaon to “rescue mission team.”

The FFM, organized by Balsa Mindanao and Barog Katawhan, left Davao City Thursday and was expected to return Sunday or Monday.

Malanyaon, who described the sitio as “the farthest barangay,” told MindaNews in a telephone interview Sunday morning that she has not received any report on a hostage-taking. “I checked with barangay officials. Wala man” (there’s none).

She said Tiangco got in touch with her between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and informed her they were “stranded” in Cabuyao, a village in the hinterlands about three hours travel from Baganga poblacion.

The provincial government, she said, did not know a fact-finding mission was in the area because there was no coordination with them. She said Tiangco passed on the phone to Francis Morales, Executive Director at Balsa Mindanao.

“Hindi man nila sinabi na na-hostage sila” (They did not say they were hostaged), Malanyaon said.
The governor said Morales and Tiangco told her about the alleged harassments. She said she told them she would have these investigated but concerned with their “safety and convenience,” she offered to send vehicles to fetch them and bring them to Baganga poblacion on Saturday night. But Malanyaon said Morales and Tiangco told her the team would just spend the night in the community.

No contact

Malanyaon told MindaNews Sunday morning that she had been trying to get in touch with Tiangco since around 6 a.m. Sunday to discuss the arrangements on how to get them out of Cabuyao but Tiangco could not be reached.

At 10 a.m. Malanyaon said she still could not get in touch with Tiangco.

MindaNews had been trying to reach Tiangco Saturday night and Sunday morning but she could not be reached. Somebody answered the text message at 11:10 a.m. Sunday but said Tiangco “is on meeting pa.”

The Quezon City-based Promotion of Church People’s Response in a statement e-mailed Saturday evening quoting FFM member Deaconess Norma Dollaga of Kapatiran Simbahan para sa Bayan (Kasimbayan) said they had been expecting the vehicles mid-afternoon in Sitio Cabuyao and that soldiers “have been blocking the way of the contingent since the first day of the NFFSM last April 18.”

The PCPR statement, signed by Secretary General Nardy Sabino, quoted Sister Nina Achacoso, MSM, as saying, “we are trap(ped) because military paralyzed all means of our transportation. Please share this information and pray for our safety here.”

The statement noted that as of 7 p.m. Saturday, the mission members were “seeking the help of locals for water and shelter as darkness now engulfed their journey posing impending danger to the team.”

According to the PCPR, the NFFSM, composed of “churchpeople, environmental activists, human rights advocates and concerned individuals” is “now derailed from concluding their mission as all means of transportation which also contained necessary food and water supplies for the team are put on a halt by numerous military check points and road mishaps. Road blocks such as logs and barriers caused the long delay of vehicles that would bring the members of the NFFSM back to the city for the last leg of their itinerary.”

FFM’s mission

It said the NFFSM was conducted to “primarily document the extra-judicial killing of Kagawad Cristina Jose, a local leader of the typhoon Pablo survivors, to gather information on the corruption and militarization of humanitarian assistance and rehabilitation funds, and the extent of environmental plunder involving the local government officials, military officers and companies.”

On Sunday morning, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) issued an alert that “five journalists covering a fact finding mission by an organization of Typhoon Pablo survivors in Baganga, Davao Oriental reported to colleagues that the group led by Barog Katawhan has been stranded after alleged harrassment by military elements.”

“Macky Macaspac of the alternative media outfit Pinoy Weekly and Marilou Tuburan of Davao Today reported last night (Apr. 20) that they are among the 69 participants of the fact finding mission still unable to leave Sitio Cabuyao, Barangay Binondo, Baganga, Davao Oriental,” the NUJP alert, issued by JB Deveza of the Mindanao Media Safety Office, said.

The alert said Macaspac and Tuburan were with two others from Kilab Multimedia and a columnist of SunStar whose names were not mentioned.

The NUJP quoted a report of Pinoy Weekly that “although there was no direct harm inflicted against the participants, the military reportedly threatened the drivers of vehicles rented for the FFM, causing them to flee from the area and leaving the participants stranded through the night.”

Deveza said they were “initially told military elements encamped about an hour’s walk from the village where the FFM is being conducted are allegedly blocking the road leading to Baganga.”

The NUJP alert said Ronalyn Olea of the online Bulatlat said they received a text message from one of the organizers of the mission that military agents were barring the group from leaving the area.

Lt. Col. Krishnamurti Mortela, chief of the 67^th Infantry Battalion denied allegations that soldiers threatened the FFM’s drivers and blocked the road leading to Baganga. He said soldiers did not bar the group from leaving the area.

Mortela told MindaNews that he had prepared military trucks to fetch the FFM members as early as 5 a.m. Sunday but former Bayan Muna Rep. Joel Virador, he said, turned down the military’s offer.

Mortela said the FFM may have been fetched by Virador. Virador could not be reached by phone as of 3 p.m.

Also as of 3 p.m., Tiangco has yet to reply if the FFM delegation has left Sitio Cabuyao.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2013/04/21/fact-finding-mission-decries-military-harassment-in-baganga-military-denies-allegations/

CPP/NPA: Public apology for the incident in Capitulangan, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental

Posted to the CPP Website (Apr 21): Public apology for the incident in Capitulangan, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental

Alan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Jiito Tito Command)

The New People’s Army-North Central Mindanao Regional Command expresses its sincere apology to the Guingonas, the Velasco family and the people of Gingoog City for the unfortunate incident last night, April 20, around 10:20 PM in Capitulangan, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. It is confirmed that a firefight took place between the armed escorts of Mayor Ruthie Guingona and an NPA unit where two driver-bodyguards were killed while Mayor Guingona herself and two other civilians were wounded.

We offer condolences and express our deepest sympathy for the bereaved families of Bartolome Velasco and Nestor Velasco, who were both killed in the incident.

Contrary to reports that the incident was an ambush, it started when Mayor Guingona’s armed escorts fired upon an NPA checkpoint in Capitulangan. The group was on its way home when it passed by the NPA checkpoint near the bridge in Capitulangan. The lead vehicle of Mayor Guingona’s convoy rammed against the bamboo roadblock mounted by the Red fighters while her escorts opened fire at the NPAs flagging down the convoy. The Red fighters immediately returned fire in self defense.

The said NPA unit was carrying out orders from the Regional Command to implement the revolutionary policies regarding the conduct of elections, to flag down candidates and campaigners who carry firearms and armed escorts during their campaign sorties in guerilla zones when doing their campaign rounds without proper coordination with the concerned revolutionary territorial committees and commands.

Since April 15, NPAunits in the different fronts of NCMR have launched coordinated checkpoints to implement this policy. Three of these checkpoints were put up in Gingoog City. Among those held at a checkpoint in Brgy. Samaywere four of Mayor Guingona’s campaigners. Aside from explaining our policy to her campaigners, responsible cadres in the area also personally contacted Mayor Guingona through phone, reminding her to avoid bringing armed escorts during campaign sorties.

We recognize Vice Pres. Guingona’s significant contribution to the Filipino people’s anti-dictatorship struggle and his steadfast nationalist standpoint on various issues. We look upon Senator TG Guingona’s pro-people standpoint. Thus, we are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. We take responsibility for this.

For the civilian casualties, we will exhaust all efforts to contact their families to extend our indemnification and lend needed medical assistance to the wounded.

Despite this incident, the NPA will continue to put up checkpoints in the implementation of revolutionary policies and to ensure the peaceful conduct of election campaign in guerilla zones. We wish to reiterate our warning to all candidates who are campaigning in guerilla zones to avoid carrying firearms or armed escorts to avoid the occurrence of similar incident in the future.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130421_public-apology-for-the-incident-in-capitulangan-gingoog-city-misamis-oriental

CPP/NPA: Ka Parago on the Davao City district 2 leadership

Posted to the CPP Website (Apr 21): Ka Parago on the Davao City district 2 leadership

Leoncio Pitao (Kumander Parago)
Spokesperson
NPA Southern Mindanao 1st Pulang Bagani Company (1st Pulang Bagani Company)

It’s high time to change the politics of sheer self-perpetuation and coercive partisanship in the areas of Southern Mindanao and particularly in the rural districts of Davao City. The sordid politics have only resulted in the further exploitation of the masses, more so during the season of elections. Thus, the New People’s Army welcomes any opportunity, any development that would puncture the dynastic arrogation of power, particularly in the second congressional district of Davao City.

The NPA finds objectionable the current bullying character of local political campaigning in Davao City’s second district. The masses that have temporary relief in the sudden deluge of cash through patronage politics are forced to toe the line of the Garcias. Never mind that this ruling class family has smoothly perpetuated itself to power by whipping into line village and district functionaries, vote buying, military hamletting, employing of excessive number of Garcia “assistors” during election day, and a host of other dirty tricks.

At the expense of real development and progress for the people, the Garcias have lorded it over for more than 20 years in the Davao City’s second district and have perfected the use of psychological warfare and terror sweetened by largesse during election day, especially in Paquibato district and outlying areas. Officers and men of the 69th Infantry Battalion-10th ID of the Philippine Army are staunch private armies of the Garcias in perpetuating the garrison-like campaigning and voting in Paquibato and other parts of district 2.

With no real performance or track record to speak of at the level of reactionary politics, and with no inclination to represent the interests and aspiration of the Lumads, workers, peasants and other basic sectors in the Halls of reactionary Congress, a change in district 2 leadership could mean a reprieve for the masses from the murky politics that have characterized the past administration.

The people should seize the opportunity to repudiate the politics of status quo and atrocious election campaigning, and support candidates who may possibly rise to the challenge of representing and working for the people’s interest and welfare or who would at least deliver badly-needed basic services for the marginalized communities.

Likewise, local city leaders should encourage the burgeoning of novel ideas by new aspirants, make Paquibato and the whole of Davao city a free zone for all candidates, and dismantle the monopoly of traditional patronage politics.

As the NPA distances itself from directly participating in the reactionary elections as a matter of revolutionary conduct, it will exercise as the people’s army, ready to defend the masses from atrocities and human rights abuses.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130421_ka-parago-on-the-davao-city-district-2-leadership

Palace expects govt agencies to act on US human rights report

From GMA News (Apr 21): Palace expects govt agencies to act on US human rights report

Malacañang on Sunday said it expects the appropriate agencies to act on the report of the US State Department’s human rights country report indicating the Philippine government investigated and prosecuted only a limited number of reported rights abuses.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte also admitted President Benigno Aquino III’s recent directives to uphold human rights may not have been reflected in this year’s report because they came out only in November and December 2012.

“We expect agencies who have jurisdiction over these subjects... will be taking the necessary steps as they deem fit in the light of these observations,” Valte said on government-run dzRB radio.

She said Aquino’s administrative order to create an inter-agency committee on extra-judicial killings was issued only in November last year.

An act against enforced or involuntary disappearances was signed in December, she added.

“Medyo late na rin in the year na-issue (These were issued late in the past year),” she said.

“Hindi pa nararamdaman ang full effect ng pinirmahan ng Pangulong Aquino (The directives of Aquino in late 2012 may not have been immediately felt),” she added.

The US State Department’s human rights country report had indicated the Philippine government investigated and prosecuted only a limited number of reported human rights abuses.

It also cited persistent concerns about impunity.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/304891/news/nation/palace-expects-govt-agencies-to-act-on-us-human-rights-report

MILF to appoint new ceasefire committee head

From GMA News (Apr 21): MILF to appoint new ceasefire committee head

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front said Sunday it will soon appoint a new head for its Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH).

In a post on its website, the MILF said the present CCCH head, Said Sheikh, was appointed to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) last March 15.

“We do not want to replace him, but time has come that we have to do what we do not like,” said MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal, who heads the Bangsamoro Transition Commission.

According to Iqbal, Said may have to be replaced because his work in the BTC requires focus, dedication, and much leg-work.

He said Said is a very competent person, a team worker, and very loyal to the MILF and the Bangsamoro people’s cause.

But when asked who will replace Said, Iqbal said he will consult the MILF's military arm and ask for a list of at least three recommendations.

“I would prefer him to come from the island provinces,” he said, referring to emerging new strongholds of the MILF.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/304857/news/nation/milf-to-appoint-new-ceasefire-committee-head

Retiring AFP officials cause latest reshuffle

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 22): Retiring AFP officials cause latest reshuffle

Several senior field officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been affected by the latest round of reshuffle in the military organization brought about by the retirement of some officials.

Leading those reassigned was Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz, outgoing commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division (ID), who was promoted as new commanding general of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) Vice Lt. Gen. Jorge Segovia, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Cruz will formally take over the Easmincom today during change of command ceremonies to be presided over by AFP chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.

Both Cruz and Segovia are members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mapitagan” Class of 1980, which has the four presidential sisters — Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris — as honorary members.

Appointed as Cruz’s successor at the Army 1st ID was Brig. Gen. Daniel Lucero, of PMA “Matikas” Class of 1983, outgoing commander of the 103rd Brigade. Prior to his field assignments, Lucero served as spokesman of the AFP.

Lucero also previously served in the United Nations peacekeeping force and adjudged as one of the Outstanding Soldiers of the Philippines in 2011.

It was not announced who would replace Lucero as commander of the 103rd Brigade.

In Sulu, Col. Jose Johriel Cenabre, also of PMA Class of 1983 and incumbent commander of the Bonifacio Naval Station, was appointed as incoming commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade vice Brig. Gen. Orlando de Leon, of PMA Class of 1982.

De Leon was promoted as deputy commander of the Western Command based in Puerto Princesa City.

At the Air Force, Brig. Gen. Edgar Fallorina, current deputy commander of 3rd Air Division (AD), was named commander of the 1st AD, replacing Maj. Gen. Ricardo Banayat who will be retiring from the service on April 26 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Fallorina will be replaced by Col. John Estoesta as deputy commander of the 3rd AD. Brig. Gen. Rolando Aquino, incumbent commander of the 410th Maintenance Wing, will replace Estoesta as deputy commander of the Air Logistics Command.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/13195-retiring-afp-officials-cause-latest-reshuffle

Gov’t remains cautious with remaining annexes

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 22): Gov’t remains cautious with remaining annexes

A government peace adviser said the Aquino administration is working hard by exercising due diligence review of the three remaining annexes that will be included in the comprehensive agreement to be forged with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in order to understand the intricacies of the situation.

The Muslim group earlier had issued a “veiled threat” to the government, indirectly speaking of a possible collapse of the talks due to the delays on the part of President Aquino in getting the three annexes signed. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles, however, said “While we move forward in this final stretch, we need to remain cautious of the intricacies involved in the crafting of the annexes.”

“The three remaining annexes on power-sharing, wealth-sharing and normalization are now going through due diligence review because our President wants to make sure that the whole government, not just the peace panel, has the full grasp of all the implications of what we are going to sign,” she said in a message read on her behalf by Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Undersecretary Jose Lorena at a conference in Iligan City.

“Our President has reiterated time and again that this government will not sign any agreement that it cannot implement.”

The government of the Philippines (GRP) and the MILF in February already signed the annex on Transitional Arrangements and Modalities that details the road map toward the creation of the Bangsamoro region that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao by 2016.
The four annexes and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro will constitute the comprehensive agreement.

Deles stressed the importance of learning from history particularly the consequences of the botched memorandum of agreement on Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD) in 2008.

“The lessons of MoA-AD continue to remind us to practice due diligence by carefully studying the repercussions and examining the viability while making certain that that the voices of the people are heeded in the process.”

“We will never allow another hastily forged agreement to waste the gains achieved in the 14-year negotiations. We will never allow our people to suffer again. It is for this motivation that we want to settle on an agreement that is based on solid foundation and can withstand scrutiny and cynicism,” she said.

“We are almost there. Peace is already at hand and we cannot allow it to slip out of our grasp.”

The peace adviser stressed the last remaining issues on the three annexes are the most contentious and the most difficult, but the documents are nearing completion. At this crucial stage of the peace process, Deles asked for the people’s support and patience.

“For this reason, we need the help of more and more groups and sectors. For a peace process to succeed, we will need the patience and support of the vast majority of our people,” she said.

“At this point in our peace process, I would like to call on your further help and assistance as the challenges continue to abound. I know that there will be no shortage of options for your involvement as you begin to know more and more about the unfolding possibilities for peace in our country,” Deles told members of the Rotary International District 3870 during the conference.

“As well, your help will be needed in building bridges of understanding and in developing constituencies for peace especially in the professional and the business sectors. It is certainly welcome news to have you join and accompany us in this difficult but worthwhile journey.”

She expressed optimism that the challenges confronting the peace process “are not insurmountable.”
“We have a limited window of time to pursue our dreams, but we can create unlimited opportunities if we help one another in bringing about creative solutions in bringing about a future of peace for our children.”        

http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/headlines/item/13203-gov’t-remains-cautious-with-remaining-annexes

Tausugs rally to press Malaysia to free Sabah

From the Manila Times (Apr 21): Tausugs rally to press Malaysia to free Sabah

Thousands of Tausug people on Sunday gathered in Jolo, Sulu to call on the Malaysian government to free Sabah.

Abraham Idjirani, spokesperson and secretary-general of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo said that the rally was staged to express full support to the sultanate’s claim over Sabah.

Wearing shirts printed with “Free Sabah” on it, the participants urged the Malaysian government to return the disputed territory to its original owner, the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo.

“This is just a recognition of the ancestral and legal rights of the Sultanate of Sulu over Sabah,” said Idjirani.

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chief of staff Yusop Jikiri earlier said that the Tausugs in Mindanao have formed Bangsa-Sug to solidify their support in the move of the Sultanate to reclaim Sabah.

He said he personally initiated the move to gather all Tausugs to create the Bangsa-Sug, which according to him is different from the Bangsa Moro.

“They gathered in Jolo to show to the world that they are moving for the peaceful resolution of Sabah problem,” Jikiri said in a phone interview.

He also said that the move was also done to express full support to the legitimacy of the leadership of Sultan Jamalul Kiram 3rd after several personalities declared that they are the real Sultan.

Jikiri said that the participants of the rally first paraded around the whole town of Jolo before proceeding in front of the municipal hall where a short program was held.

“They [participants] are demanding freedom of the island of Sabah,” he added.

Elated by the strong support to the sultanate, Idjirani said that the rally was a “very welcome development.”

“With this, Malaysia will know that the Sultanate of Sulu is not only demanding the return of Sabah but also the Tausug people,” Idjirani said.

”This is only a manifestation that the Sultanate has the legal and ancestral rights over Sabah,” he added.
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/45933-tausugs-rally-to-press-malaysia-to-free-sabah

US refuses to pay P58-M reef fine

From the Manila Times (Apr 21): US refuses to pay P58-M reef fine

THE United States government has refused to pay cash to the Philippines as payment for damages caused by the grounding of the minesweeper USS Guardian at Tubbataha Reef, a Unesco World Heritage site.

According to highly-placed government sources, the US wants to pay in “kind”, offering to give an aircraft used during the war in Afghanistan.

“They [US Navy] insisted that they not pay a single penny but offered an airplane they used during the Afghan campaign instead. They said the aircraft can be used to boost security patrols around the reef,” one source confided to The Manila Times.

The official, who holds a sensitive position in the Philippine government, was present during a previous meeting between US officials and their Philippine counterparts in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan province.

The source added that local officials present during the meeting frowned upon hearing the US officials’ position, saying the Philippine government would be shortchanged if such an offer was accepted.

“If we are to accept the airplane, who’s going to the do the repairs? The maintenance? Chances are we would be paying the US Navy for the job. Doesn’t it sound awkward?” the source pointed out.

The Philippines, through the Tubbataha Management Office, has asked the US Navy to pay a fine of P58 million ($1.4 million) for damaging at least 2,300 square meters of the Tubbataha Reef. The Guardian got stuck on the reef in January. The vessel had to be removed from the reef piece by piece. Salvage work was completed on March 30. The salvage operation had cost the US Navy almost $25 million or about P1.2 billion.

The Manila Times tried to verify the information with Tubbataha Reefs Park Superintendent Angelique Songco but her cellphone was off during the weekend.

Republic Act 10067, or the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Act of 2009, slaps a fine of $300 or at least P12,000 per square meter of damaged reef. Besides this, another $300 per square meter would be used for rehabilitation efforts.

The Tubbataha management earlier said it will serve the US Navy a formal notice of violations.

US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas apologized for the incident in behalf of his government. He admitted that the reef “will take years to repair.”

Recently, the US Navy fired four officers of the USS Guardian after investigations revealed that they failed to “adhere to standard US Navy navigation procedures” when the incident occurred.

In an earlier statement, Songco said the $1.4 million fine “is but a slap on the wrist” if compared to the cost of the salvage operation.

“However, we respect the Rule of Law and these are the fines stipulated. The Tubbataha Management Office will not ask for anything more,” she added.

International concern

Meanwhile, officials of the oldest international federation of divers involved in underwater sports and sciences have expressed concern over the Tubbataha incident.

Some 200 members of the group Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) or the World Underwater Federation are presently in the country for their annual general assembly and election of new officers. They represent around 120 countries worldwide.

German Rainer Gottwald, a member of CMAS, said he was aware of the “aircraft offer” as payment for the damage wrought by the USS Guardian on Tubbataha.

Gottwald said he finds it absurd that the US Navy “could do just what they want to do.” He described the offer as a “cheat,” noting the extent of the damage to the reef.

Unbelievable

For his part, Nobel Prize candidate Dr. Ralph Schill, a marine scientist who is president of the organization’s scientific committee, said the fine that should be paid by the US Navy should be used by the Philippine government in intensifying patrols around Tubbataha.

Schill, an official of the German Underwater Federation, said it would take about a decade for the damaged corrals to grow again. He also lamented the recent accident in Tubbataha involving a Chinese fishing vessel that got stuck on another portion of the reef just days after the complete removal of the US minesweeper.

“It is unbelievable how these two accidents have happened. The money should be used to ensure that no such thing would happen again in the future. Nature will repair itself and it will take time. The most important lesson that should be learned from this experience is for an increased protection of the area,” Schill pointed out.

Russian Anna Arzhanova, the newly-elected president of CMAS, said her group is willing to help in whatever way to protect and develop not only the damaged reef but other similar sites in the country as well.

Like Dr. Schill, Arzhanova said the government should invest heavily on added protection for the Tubbataha national park by extending its security perimeter.

“There must also be a stricter monitoring of ships passing by. They should not come any closer to the reef. Patrols must be tight,” the CMAS president stressed.

CMAS is recognized by the UNESCO and the International Olympic Committee. Besides international underwater sports, it is also active in promoting the protection of underwater heritage sites all over the world.

http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/headlines-mt/45956-us-refuses-to-pay-p58-m-reef-fine

TG Guingona slams NPA for shooting elderly mom ‘already bowing out of politics’

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 21): TG Guingona slams NPA for shooting elderly mom ‘already bowing out of politics’

Senator Teofisto Guingona III blamed the New People’s Army for the assassination attempt on his mother, Gingoog City Mayor Ruth de Lara Guingona on late Saturday.

In a statement on Sunday, Guingona slammed the NPA for firing upon “an elderly and innocent woman who is already bowing out of politics.” The senator said the NPA was wrong to attack his mother for bringing arms at a rebel checkpoint. “The persons that were carrying the arms are members of Philippine National Police,” he said.

He said his mother, who was in her 70s and in her third term as Mayor, was ambushed on her way home from a fiesta in the city’s outskirts.

Guingona said he was relieved that her mother survived and suffered only wounds. But he mourned the death of her driver and security escort. “Brothers Nestor and Bartolome Velasco were killed in a hail of bullets on board the Hi-Lux pick-up she was riding in. The fatalities were loyal employees of long standing in our family’s home in Mindanao. My heart grieves for them and their families,” said Guingona.

Guingona said that his mother was “wounded and trapped inside the vehicle that fell on its side due to grenade explosions” until she was rescued early Sunday.

Sen. Franklin Drilon, campaign manager of Team PNoy, vowed to apply “the full force of the law” in identifying and bringing to the bar of justice the perpetrators of the crime.

“We have seen too many (cases of) political violence in our country and this is completely unacceptable. We must take meaningful measures to prevent similar incidents from happening again, regardless of the politics,” said Drilon.

Guingona said that no one had the right to “take the law in his own hands.”

“We would like to remind everyone in this country that there is only one government of the Republic of the Philippines. There is only one President who is in-charge of executing the laws of this land. That is President Noynoy Aquino. He is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Guingona.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/395073/tg-guingona-slams-npa-for-shooting-elderly-mom-already-bowing-out-of-politics

NDF: No ambush planned vs Guingona, NPA just wanted to talk to mayor

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 21): NDF: No ambush planned vs Guingona, NPA just wanted to talk to mayor
Jorge Madlos, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front in Mindanao, apologized on Sunday, to the Guingonas for the gun attack on Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona and her bodyguards, saying the NPA was not intending to ambush the party but only to hold the convoy, disarm the bodyguards and talk to the mayor.

“There was a makeshift roadblock but somebody in their convoy ordered to run it over and fire at the NPA, who were forced to return fire,” Madlos told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone Sunday.

“It is our heartfelt request to ask forgiveness to the family of Guingona. We did not expect this,” Madlos said.

Madlos said the NPA would also work on indemnifying the families of those killed.

Madlos, however, said the mayor’s entourage failed to ask permission from the NPA about campaigning in the areas, which the NPA claimed to have control of.

Asked if the failure of Guingona to ask the permit-to-campaign was the reason for the roadblock, Madlos said: “It is not the issue of campaign to permit fee, but rather adhering to policies to the revolutionary movement.”

The mayor is not running for any elective post, but her daughter, Marie, is eyeing to replace her mother as mayor of Gingoog City.

Madlos said the Guingona encounter should serve as a warning to politicians who would like to campaign in NPA-influenced areas not to bring armed escorts.

“They are not allowed to bring firearms unless they ask for special permits from the local NPA that they will bring one for their own protection against bandits,” Madlos said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/394995/ndf-no-ambush-planned-vs-guingona-npa-just-wanted-to-talk-to-mayor

AFP blames NPA’s ‘criminal nature’ for attack on Guingona, party

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 21): AFP blames NPA’s ‘criminal nature’ for attack on Guingona, party
Military and police units have been sent to go after a group of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, which allegedly opened fire at the convoy of Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona, wife of former Vice President Teofisto Guingona, and killed two of her aides.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) condemned the attack, saying the attack was another “proof of the NPA’s criminal nature.”

“They are no different from other partisan armed groups and criminals that consistently break the law and hamper far-flung communities’ growth and development,” the AFP spokesperson, Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr., said in a statement.

(The National Democratic Front in Mindanao has denied planning an ambush on Guingona’s group, saying that when they blocked Guingona’s convoy, they had just wanted to disarm the group and talk to the mayor for not seeking their permission to campaign in areas being claimed by the NPA as under their control. The NDF claimed that the Guingona convoy decided to ram through the roadblock, prompting the NPA to fire.)

Burgos said that while the communist rebels have been projecting themselves as “a pro-people armed group, their actions reflect their continuous violence and consistent disrespect of human rights and international humanitarian law.”

“Their actions vehemently disrespect and violate the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law to which they are signatories,” he said.

The military official said the insurgents also violated Republic Act 9851, otherwise known as the “Act defining and penalizing crimes against International Humanitarian Law, genocide and other crimes against humanity.”

Burgos said elements of the Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion, headed by Lt. Col Evan Bermudo, have been tapped to lead the joint military and police pursuit operations against the NPA rebels who carried out the “ambush.”

Last year, he said the communist insurgents killed a total of 53 civilians. He also noted that the NPAs gunned down eight civilians and a policeman in an ambuscade in Negros Occidental early this year.

“The AFP offers its sympathies to the families of the victims. The military would like to assure our citizens that the troops in the area will strictly follow the rules of engagement and will respect and promote human rights in pursuit of the perpetrators of this attack,” Burgos said.

“The AFP also hopes that the collective call for justice of our peace-loving people compel them to surrender and adhere to the rule of law.”

Burgos said Mayor Guingona and her group were returning to the city proper of Gingoog on Saturday night when NPA rebels waylaid their convoy.

He said the mayor survived the ambush, but sustained gunshot wounds. A policeman and another civilian bodyguard were also wounded. She was immediately brought to the Sanitarium Hospital in Gingoog and was later flown to a hospital in Cagayan de Oro City on Sunday, aboard a UH-1H Huey helicopter.

Her driver and a bodyguard were killed in the attack, Burgos said.

He said the mayor had attended a village fiesta in Barangay Upper Kapitulangan before the attack.
“This is contrary to claims (of) the NPA that she was campaigning in the area. Mayor Guingona is not a candidate in the coming… elections,” Burgos said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/395079/afp-blames-npas-criminal-nature-for-attack-on-guingona-party

2 leftist rebels killed in clash

From the Philippine Star (Apr 21): (UPDATE) 2 leftist rebels killed in clash

Two suspected rebels of the leftist New People's Army (NPA) were killed in a firefight with government troops in Camarines Sur, local military said Saturday.
 
Major Angelo Guzman, spokesman for the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division, said that nine soldiers of the 42nd Infantry Battalion clashed with a group of rebels at around 2:40 p.m. Friday at Antipolo, Iriga City in Camarines Sur.

He said that the government troops were on patrol when they engaged about 10 rebels in a 10-minute firefight. Two rebels died in the clash, and no one was hurt on the government troops' side, he said.

The NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front, has been waging an insurgency for over four decades.

 http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/21/933253/update-2-leftist-rebels-killed-clash

Village exec killed in front of family

From the Philippine Star (Apr 21): Village exec killed in front of family

A barangay councilor who is a political coordinator of a mayoral candidate was shot dead in front of his wife and daughter in Victoria town, Oriental Mindoro, Thursday night, police said yesterday.

Amado Villafando Umali, 55, was killed past 8 p.m. inside their house in Sitio Core Housing, Barangay Loyal by armed men wearing camouflage uniform.

The victim, a distant relative of incumbent Gov. Alfonso Umali Jr. and a cousin of Nacionalista Party mayoral candidate Lito Malabanan, was shot in the back of his head.

Witnesses told police the gunmen identified themselves as members of the Army who were allegedly out to search Umali’s house for weapons.

But when Umali asked the armed men to show them a search warrant, the suspects reportedly said they were New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and shot the victim.

 http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/04/21/933031/village-exec-killed-front-family

2 rebels killed in Bicol encounter

From the Philippine Star (Apr 21): 2 rebels killed in Bicol encounter

Two suspected communist rebels were killed in an encounter with government security forces in Iriga City Friday afternoon.
 
Maj. Angelo Guzman, spokesman of the 9th Infantry Division, said Army troops retrieved the bodies of the two slain insurgents at the encounter site in Barangay Catalotoan following a 10-minute fighting that broke out at 2:40 p.m.

The troops, Guzman added, also recovered an M16 and M3653 assault rifles from the slain rebels believed to be part of a 10-man NPA advance team dispatched in the area to conduct extortion activities.

Authorities have yet to identify the two fatalities.

The encounter was a result of an intensified Army patrols in the so-called red areas in response to increased rebel pre-election activities over the past several weeks not only in Bicol, but also in other areas of the country.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/04/21/933024/2-rebels-killed-bicol-encounter

Sultanate seeks release of Kiram’s nephew

From the Philippine Star (Apr 21): Sultanate seeks release of Kiram’s nephew



The Sultanate of Sulu yesterday demanded Malaysia to release the nephew of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III who was accused of being a terrorist and waging war against the Malaysian monarchy.

Sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani said there was no reason for Malaysia to have arrested and charged Datu Amirbahar Kiram since he previously helped the Malaysian Police in its negotiations with the royal security forces (RSF) in Sabah on Feb. 12.

Kiram is a son of Sultan Bantilan Esmail Kiram, younger brother of the sultan.

“There is no reason why he should have been arrested and charged. He was helping the Malaysian Police. His only crime I guess is that he is surnamed Kiram,” Idjirani said.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/21/932960/sultanate-seeks-release-kirams-nephew

Disputed Spratlys, 4,400 other islands covered in new China surveillance system

Posted to InterAksyon (Apr 21): Disputed Spratlys, 4,400 other islands covered in new China surveillance system

China has established a national island surveillance and monitoring system and completed airborne remote-sensing surveillance of what it claims to be its 4,406 islands, according to the Ministry of Land and Resources (MLR).

The national system is mainly built on aerial surveillance, with satellites, unmanned planes, and cruisers as auxiliary instruments, the MLR said in its annual land resources report issued Saturday.

Since a national plan on island protection and exploration came into effect in last April, south China's Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong provinces, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region have passed their own provincial-level scheme, with Liaoning, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Hainan completing their draft plan, the ministry said.

Last year, China completed an island name survey, including on-site investigation on part of the atolls in the three island groups known as Sansha in the South China Sea which covers the disputed island groups of Spratlys, Paracels, and Macclesfield. The Philippines and Vietnam also claim sovereignty over these islands.

The country also released the standard names and geographical coordinates of the Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands in the East China Sea, as well as other geographical entities in their surrounding waters last year, according to the MLR report. China Diaoyu is also being claimed by Japan.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/59912/disputed-spratlys-4400-other-islands-covered-in-new-china-surveillance-system

Military holds humanitarian volunteers in Davao Oriental

From Rappler (Apr 20): Military holds humanitarian volunteers in Davao Oriental



INDIGNATION. Protesters accuse the military and Davao Oriental governor Corazon Malanyaon of sabotaging fact-finding mission on alleged corruption of relief goods, massive logging and human rights violations. Photo by Karlos Manlupig

DAVAO CITY, Philippines - At least 70 health workers, social workers, nuns, mediamen, and environmentalists were stranded in a far-flung village in the town of Baganga, Davao Oriental, on Saturday, April 20, after soldiers allegedly blocked their vehicles and harassed their drivers.

The volunteers of the 3-day national humanitarian mission led by Balsa Mindanao was wrapping up the delivery of relief, medical, and psycho-social services to areas affected by Typhoon Pablo.

“The group was illegally held twice in checkpoints by members of the military in the municipality of Cateel. Military assets blocked the road with a dump truck, logs, and rocks in two different locations enough to bar the missioners from passing,” Balsa Mindanao claimed in a text message.

The group also said the drivers of the two trucks they hired abandoned the vehicles and left the area allegedly after the military harassed them. They were set to leave Sitio Cabuyao in Barangay Binondo, which is two hours away from the town center.

“The habal-habal drivers in the area would not also allow us to hire their motorcycles because they fear that they will be harmed by the soldiers. These drivers, including our drivers, were harassed by the soldiers,” the group added.

The volunteers are calling for public support so that they will be able to return to Davao City safely.

Briefly held

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon said in a phone interview that the local police indeed briefly held the group in Commission on Elections checkpoints.

“The police said that this is for security measures, most especially that it is election time,” Malanyaon said.

The governor also said she would send people to check the situation and provide assistance to the volunteers.

The military is still checking with its ground unit in the area to verify the report.

Fact-finding mission

Part of the group's activities was also to conduct a fact-finding mission on the murder of village councilor and food protest leader Cristina Jose. Her relatives said that Jose was gunned down while on her way to the Commission on Human Rights in Davao to file a complaint against the military for alleged threats to her life.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Southern Mindanao Region briefly held a protest action in Davao City on Saturday evening, lambasting the military and Malanyaon for sabotaging the mission to cover up issues that include alleged corruption in the delivery of relief services, massive logging, and human rights violations.

“Malanyaon and her group maximized the relief goods intended for Pablo survivors for the interest of their political party and candidates. And they are also afraid that their involvement in the massive abuse of the environment through logging will be exposed,” Bayan-SMR spokesperson Sheena Duazo said.

“I would resign, even if I will win again in the elections despite the fact that I am unopposed, if they would be able to prove that their accusations are true,” Malanyaon said, denying the accusations.

Malanyaon said that it would also be impossible for her to use the relief services for their campaign because she already turned over all relief and rehabilitation responsibilities to Department of Social Welfare and Development.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/27048-military-holds-humanitarian-volunteers-davao-oriental

NPA apologizes for hurting Guingona

From Rappler (Apr 21): NPA apologizes for hurting Guingona

The New People’s Army (NPA) on Sunday, April 21 apologized to the Guingonas for hurting Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona in an encounter with her group in Misamis Oriental last night, and claimed they acted “in self-defense.”

“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. We take responsibility for this,” said Allan Juanito, spokesman of the NPA-North Central Mindanao Regional Command.

Police said the mayor and her bodyguards were on their way home from a fiesta when they were fired upon by communist rebels at around 11 pm, Saturday, April 20 in Brgy Binakakalan in Gingoog.
Juanito said the incident was not an ambush.

“It started when Mayor Guingona’s armed escorts fired upon an NPA checkpoint,” he said.

“The lead vehicle of Mayor Guingona’s convoy rammed against the bamboo roadblock mounted by the red fighters while her escorts opened fire at the NPAs flagging down the convoy. The red fighters immediately returned fire in self defense,” he narrated.

Senator Teofisto Guingona III said the rebels threw grenades and fired at his mother’s vehicle causing it to overturn. Ruthie sustained wounds, while her two aides, brothers Nestor and Bartolome Velasco, died.

A third person, who has yet to be identified, was also reportedly killed. A cop who was part of Ruthie’s security detail was wounded in the incident, initial reports said.

“We offer condolences and express our deepest sympathy for the bereaved families,” Juanito said, adding the NPA would indemnify the families.

Checkpoints to remain

Juanito reiterated the NPA didn’t mean for the deadly encounter to happen.

He said the group recognizes former vice president Teofisto Guingona’s significant contribution to the Filipino people’s anti-dictatorship struggle and his steadfast nationalist standpoint on various issues.

“We look upon Senator TG Guingona’s pro-people standpoint.”

The communist spokesman explained that the NPA unit involved was carrying out orders from the regional command “to implement the revolutionary policies regarding the conduct of elections, to flag down candidates and campaigners who carry firearms and armed escorts during their campaign sorties in guerilla zones when doing their campaign rounds without proper coordination with the concerned revolutionary territorial committees and commands.”

He said the NPA unit in the area has been manning checkpoints since April 15.

“Three of these checkpoints were put up in Gingoog City. Among those held at a checkpoint in Brgy. Samay were 4 of Mayor Guingona’s campaigners. Aside from explaining our policy to her campaigners, responsible cadres in the area also personally contacted Mayor Guingona through phone, reminding her to avoid bringing armed escorts during campaign sorties,” Juanito explained.

Despite the incident, Juanito said NPA checkpoint operations would continue.

"We wish to reiterate our warning to all candidates who are campaigning in guerilla zones to avoid carrying firearms or armed escorts to avoid the occurrence of similar incident in the future.”

http://www.rappler.com/nation/27085-npa-guingona

Senator's mom hurt, 2 dead in NPA ambush

From Rappler (Apr 21): Senator's mom hurt, 2 dead in NPA ambush



Communist rebels ambushed the 4-vehicle convoy carrying Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona along a remote road in the same city in Misamis Oriental on Saturday night, April 20, injuring her and killing at least 2 others, police said.

PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Generoso Cerbo Jr. said the mayor was on her way home from a fiesta when they were fired upon by communist rebels at around 11 pm in Brgy Binakakalan.

Ruthie is the wife of former Vice President Teofisto Guingona and the mother of Senator Teofisto Guingona III.

Her daughter, Stella Marie de Lara Guingona, is seeking to replace her as mayor.

Maj. Leo Bongosia, spokesman of the military’s 4^th Infantry Division, said Ruthie's bodyguard and driver, brothers Nestor and Bartolome Velasco, died in the incident. A third person, who has yet to be identified, also reportedly died.

A cop, who is part of the security detail of Guingona, was also wounded, Bongosia said.

Senator Guingona III said in a statement his mother was wounded and trapped inside her vehicle, which fell on its side due to grenade explosions. She was rescued at dawn Sunday.

Ruthie sustained wounds in her arms and feet, according to reports. She is now safe.

"I am relieved she is now safe and in stable condition," said the senator.

NPA claims responsibility

The senator slammed the New People's Army (NPA), which claimed responsibility for the incident.

"The New People's Army fired upon an elderly and innocent woman who is already bowing out of politics," he said.

NPA-North Central Mindanao Regional Command spokesman Allan Juanito however claimed the rebel unit involved in the encounter was only acting "in self-defense."

Emphasizing what happened wasn't an ambush, he said it was the Gingoog mayor's aides who first fired their weapons at an NPA checkpoint.

"The lead vehicle of Mayor Guingona’s convoy rammed against the bamboo roadblock mounted by the red fighters while her escorts opened fire at the NPAs flagging down the convoy. The red fighters immediately returned fire in self-defense," he explained.

The NPA set up its own checkpoint operations in Mindanao ahead of the May polls.

It said this was to ensure "the peaceful conduct of elections" and was in accordance to "revolutionary policies," which include among others "prohibiting the use of firearms and armed escorts."

Senator Guingona however said the police in his mother's convoy were the only ones carrying firearms.

He added: "We would like to remind everyone in this country that there is only one government of the Republic of the Philippines. There is only one President who is in charge of executing the laws of this land... no one else has the right to usurp the laws of this country."

Gov't troops run after rebels

Bongosia said government forces were immediately deployed to secure the area. He said they are running after the suspects.

"Our forces are now conducting clearing and hot pursuit operations," Bongosia said.
"Joing AFP and PNP on pursuit operations," added Cerbo.

Guingona was on her way home after campaigning for Liberal Party candidates.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/27059-gingoog-mayor-ruthie-guinonga-ambushed

Army backs livelihood programs for Calubian, San Isidro farmers groups

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 21): Army backs livelihood programs for Calubian, San Isidro farmers groups

KANANGA, Leyte -- The Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade and 19th Infantry Battalion continue to work for the implementation of the livelihood enhancement programs to their eight newly organized farmers and fisher folks associations in Leyte’s Calubian and San Isidro towns.

First Lt. Rod Vincent F. Babera, Civil Military Operation officer of the 19th IB, identified the farmers and fisher folks associations as Taglawigan Farmers Association, Taglawigan Fisher Folks Organization and Catoogan Farmers Association in San Isidro, Leyte; Sorosimbahan Farmers Association, Jubay Farmers Association, Airport Farmers Association and Cabatoan Farmers Association from Calubian, Leyte; and Libertad Farmers Association in Kananga, Leyte.

These organizations were formerly organized in the early ‘90s by the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army/National Democratic Front (CNN) in Leyte but have returned under the folds of the law 12 years ago.

As of this writing, all the eight farmers and fisher folks associations have been registered with the Department of Labor and Employment, he added.

Babera disclosed that the training on cassava and sweet potatoes production was successfully conducted at So. Crossing, Barangay Taglawigan, San Isidro, Leyte on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 with 300 farmer participants.

The training which was facilitated by the Philippine Rootcrops Research Center based in Visayas State University (VSU), Baybay City in partnership with the Fatima Multi-purpose Cooperative Incorporated aimed to introduce modern technologies, excellent varieties of crops and techniques to increase production of cassava and sweet potato among farmers, Babera said.

The training also includes lecture on: “Management and Control of Insect Pests and Diseases on Rootcrops” by Dr. Erlinda A. Vasquez, a VSU professor and entomologist, “Cassava Production Technology” by Dioscorro M. Bolatete, senior agriculturist of PhilRootcrops and “Sweet Potato Production Technology” by Enrique B. Abogadie, a senior production expert and Germplasm curator.

Another lecturer was Nilo Pesquera from the Philippine Crop Insurance Incorporated who mentioned the importance of crop insurance to farmers especially during occurrence of natural and man-made calamities.

Lt. Col. Joel Alejandro S. Nacnac, commanding officer of 19IB said that the training was just a start of more comprehensive programs and opportunities for subsistence farmers to increase their production and to earn extra income for their basic needs.

The military in Leyte under the leadership of Col. Rafael C. Valencia, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade has been coordinating with the different government agencies in the regional, provincial and municipal levels to facilitate programs and to ensure that the farmers’ rights and benefits are protected.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1141366469420

Mayor of Gingoog City, police escort wounded in ambush; 2 drivers killed

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): Mayor of Gingoog City, police escort wounded in ambush; 2 drivers killed

An unidentified armed group ambushed the vehicle of Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona past 11:00 p.m. Saturday night in the outskirts of Gingoog City killing her two driver escorts, the military said Sunday.

The wounded Guingona was rescued only past 5:00 a.m. Sunday while the bodies of her two drivers identified as Nestor Velasco and his brother Tomas remained in the ambush area in Lower Kapitulangan, 15 kilometers, southwest of Gingoog City, a component city east of Misamis Oriental.

A police officer identified as Bonifacio Amper, a close-in security of Mayor Guingona, was reportedly wounded but was also declared out of danger.

Guingona was rushed to a hospital in Gingoog City for treatment. Her condition was stable, a member of the provincial board in Misamis Oriental, reported Sunday morning.

Provincial Board Member Jimmy Caina said that Guingona was on board a Toyota Hi-Lux pick-up which was in a convoy when waylaid by an armed group on her way home Saturday night after attending a fiesta in Upper Kapitulangan.

Caina said that Guingona’s vehicle was about a kilometer behind her escort vehicle, also a blue Toyota Hi-Lux, where most of her security escorts were on board. The security escort vehicle was not ambushed, Caina said.

He said he was two to three minutes behind Mayor Guingona’s vehicle on his way back to Gingoog City when the ambush was staged.

“We were two to three minutes behind Mayor Guingona’s vehicle but we stopped beside the road when we heard the staccato of gunfire ahead of us,” Caina said.

He said his group was not part of Guingona’s convoy which was ahead of them. “I was campaigning for my son who was running as an independent provincial board of Misamis Oriental,” Caina said.

According to Caina, he went down Sunday morning and was able to pass by Guingona’s vehicle which already fell on its side.

Guingona was trapped inside the vehicle since 11:00 p.m. Saturday since she was unable to open the vehicles' door at the back seat, Cain added.

Maj. Leo Bongasia, spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said that a team of the Army’s special forces was immediately dispatched to the area past 11 p.m. Saturday.

He said the army soldiers came from the 58th Infantry Batallion based in Claveria, Misamis Oriental and Medina. Bongasia said the soldiers were now pursuing the armed group believed to be members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) Guerilla Front 4B, of the North Central Mindanao Revolutionary Command.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=518381

NPA owns firing at Gingoog mayor's vehicle

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): NPA owns firing at Gingoog mayor's vehicle

The communist New People’s Army (NPA) on Sunday regretted that Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona was wounded in a "firefight" with her escort Saturday morning in the outskirts of the city.

George Madlos., a.k.a. “Oris,” spokesperson of the National Democratic Front (NDF) in Mindanao, in an interview with a local radio station here, confirmed that members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 4B of North Central Mindanao Regional Command engaged in a firefight with Guingona’s armed escort Saturday night.

Madlos said that the NPA put up a checkpoint in Alegatan, a hinterland barangay 15 kilometres southwest of Gingoog City, a component city of Misamis Oriental, after receiving reports that politicians with armed escorts were campaigning in the area.

He said the checkpoint was purposely to implement the NPA’s policy of prohibiting candidates of bringing armed escorts with them while on the campaign trail.

Madlos said that Guingona’s armed escorts fired first prompting the NPA to fire back which resulted in the death of Guingona’s escorts.

However, Police Senior Supt. Nilo Cabog, provincial director of the Misamis Oriental, said based on their investigation the NPA staged an ambushed belying Madlos allegation that the rebels were holding a checkpoint in the area.

Cabog said that two escorts of Guingona were killed identified as the driver Bartolome (not Tomas as reported earlier) Velasco and his brother Nestor Velasco, one of Guingona’s close-in security.

Cabog also confirmed that a police officer PO3 Rolando Beneberito, one of the six police escorts of Guingona, (not Bonifacio Amper), was wounded in the firefight.

Madlos said that the NPA did not know that Guingona was on board the vehicle, a green Toyota-Hi Lux pickup.

“We feel sorry for this incident, although Guingona was warned last week not to bring armed security escort with her while on the campaign trail,” Madlos added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=518390

AFP’s central commander visits Negros Oriental

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): AFP’s central commander visits Negros Oriental

Maj. Gen. Roy O. Deveraturda, the newly installed commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Central Command, conducted field visit and inspection to the army troopers in Negros Oriental on Saturday.

Deveraturda’s visit in 302nd Infantry Brigade Headquarters, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental was his first after he assumed the command April 8.

He replaced Vice Admiral Edgar L. Abogado who is now the Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

The official was welcomed by the staff officers of the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IB) headed by Col. Francisco M. Patrimonio and 11th IB Commander Ltc. Wilfredo V. Isaac.

During his speech, Deveraturda expressed his appreciation for the successful Internal Peace and Security Operations (IPSO) and the zero human rights violation in the province.

“For me, the life of every soldier is very important. Let us not forget our combat SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), the tactics, techniques and procedures to prevent unnecessary loss of lives,” he stressed.

“We will continue to perform our mandate in protecting the Filipino people with utmost respect to Human Rights and strict adherence to the rule of Law,” he added.

Meanwhile, Patrimonio said that the unit will perform its best to maintain what the brigade have achieved and will maintain the tradition of excellence and discipline as a habit of the achiever troopers.

Deveraturda is considered as the 14th commander of the AFP’s Central Command based in Camp Lapu-lapu, Lahug, Cebu City.

He earned his commission in 1980 and a rated Military Pilot after graduating from the Aviation Cadet Program of the Philippine Air Force Flying School.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=518408

PAF cleans seabed off Batangas

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): PAF cleans seabed off Batangas

Aside from defending the country's airspace against aerial intruders, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Sunday played a role in preserving the environment as its commander, Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino G. Dela Cruz, led airmen in an underwater clean-up activity, dubbed "Scubasurero" in Anilao, Mabini, Batangas where they collected dozens of sacks of garbage from the seabed.

Air Force spokesperson Col. Miguel Ernesto Okol said the activity was in connection with the coming 66th PAF anniversary with the theme "Malinis na Baybayin Dagat, Kaiga-igayang Kalikasan” which focused on cleaning the seabed and coral reefs to preserve and rehabilitate the threatened marine habitat.

During Sunday's activity Dela Cruz spearheaded the first of three dives off the coast of Barangay Anilao.

Each team of divers spent one hour underwater collecting assorted garbage ranging from plastic bottles to household wastes.

The dive teams were able to collect a 40 sacks of trash from the seabed at the end of their run.

Okol said a simultaneous coastal clean-up was also conducted along the coast of the said barangay by the PAF personnel.

The sea off the coast of Anilao is one of the country’s most popular diving sites. However, uncontrolled waste disposal of tourists and the locals have taken its toll on the coral reef system and the coastline.

"Scubasurero" was launched in partnership with the local government units (LGUs) and agencies (LGAs) along with local diving clubs as part of their social responsibility in promoting a healthy environment and sustainable ecotourism by keeping our oceans free from harmful and unsightly garbage for our future generations.

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