From the Sun Star (Jun 7): AFP monitoring Chinese movements in Panatag Shoal: Palace
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been monitoring the Panatag Shoal or Bajo de Masiloc off Zambales province following reports that China has started constructing structures in the area, a Palace official said Friday.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said that as of Thursday, the military reported no indication that there was an ongoing construction in Panatag Shoal.
"However, out of prudence, they will be on the lookout first for any indications during the next ocular," she said in a news briefing.
Asked of the standard operating procedure if found that China has started building structures on the Philippine-claimed territory, Valte said "the next step would be left to the assessment of the AFP and the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs)."
Since the standoff between the Philippine and Chinese ships in April last year in Panatag Shoal, Chinese vessels never left the area contrary to the Philippine Coast Guard ship that was pulled out from the shoal months later.
China has been claiming the entire South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea through its nine-dash line.
The Philippines has brought up the territorial row with China before the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2013/06/07/afp-monitoring-chinese-movements-panatag-shoal-palace-286286
Saturday, June 8, 2013
US military commander, Phl execs tackle sea row
From the Philippine Star (Jun 7): US military commander, Phl execs tackle sea row
Top defense and military officials on Friday tackled behind closed door the mounting tension in the West Philippine Sea with US top military commander.
Also discussed during the meeting between visiting US Navy Admiral Samuel Locklear III, commander of the US Pacific Command (USPACOM), and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano, is the defense and military relations of the Philippines and America.
The meeting was held at the national defense headquarters of the AFP at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
“The Admiral discussed how the US could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security,” defense spokesperson Anne Marie Sta. Ana said in a press statement.
Sta. Ana added that with the emerging traditional and non-traditional security challenges in the Asia-Pacifc rRegion, both sides also reaffirmed the importance of their bilateral relations as well as promoting the multilaterals.
One of the emerging security challenges in the region is China’s deployment of its warships and surveillance vessels to press its maritime claim in the West Philippine Sea, particularly at Ayungin Shoal and Panganiban Reef, now China's naval outpost near Palawan.
Both areas are outside of the contested Spratly archipelago, where China has also built a three-storey military structure at its occupied Subi Reef close to the Philippines' Pag-Asa Island.
The presence of Chinese ships near Ayungin Shoal is causing inconvenience to Filipino troops on forward deployment in the area aboard a grounded Philippine Navy (PN) Landing Tank Ship, BRP Sierra Madre.
Modalities of increased rotational presence of the US troops in the Asia-Pacific and in the Philippines were also discussed during the meeting, to include high-value and high-impact exercises, Sta. Ana said.
“Admiral Locklear also gave assurance that in spite of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the US remains committed to its policy of rebalancing to Asia, emphasizing that the rebalance includes, political, economic and military aspects,” Sta. Ana added.
Locklear also reiterated before Gazmin, Bautista and Alano that while the US does not take sides on the West Philippine Sea issue, the US remains concerned about developments in the area and emphasized that they are opposed to unilateral actions that will change the status quo.
Bautista, in an ambushed interview, downplayed their meeting with Locklear as “just a getting-to-know each other" event. But when pressed if the South China Sea issue was discussed, he answered in the affirmative by simply raising both his eyebrows.
Since his assumption as USPACOM commander last year, almost the time when China started flexing its muscle in claiming almost 80 percent of the entire South China Sea, Locklear has been in the country thrice.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/06/07/951301/us-military-commander-phl-execs-tackle-sea-row
Top defense and military officials on Friday tackled behind closed door the mounting tension in the West Philippine Sea with US top military commander.
Also discussed during the meeting between visiting US Navy Admiral Samuel Locklear III, commander of the US Pacific Command (USPACOM), and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano, is the defense and military relations of the Philippines and America.
The meeting was held at the national defense headquarters of the AFP at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
“The Admiral discussed how the US could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security,” defense spokesperson Anne Marie Sta. Ana said in a press statement.
Sta. Ana added that with the emerging traditional and non-traditional security challenges in the Asia-Pacifc rRegion, both sides also reaffirmed the importance of their bilateral relations as well as promoting the multilaterals.
One of the emerging security challenges in the region is China’s deployment of its warships and surveillance vessels to press its maritime claim in the West Philippine Sea, particularly at Ayungin Shoal and Panganiban Reef, now China's naval outpost near Palawan.
Both areas are outside of the contested Spratly archipelago, where China has also built a three-storey military structure at its occupied Subi Reef close to the Philippines' Pag-Asa Island.
The presence of Chinese ships near Ayungin Shoal is causing inconvenience to Filipino troops on forward deployment in the area aboard a grounded Philippine Navy (PN) Landing Tank Ship, BRP Sierra Madre.
Modalities of increased rotational presence of the US troops in the Asia-Pacific and in the Philippines were also discussed during the meeting, to include high-value and high-impact exercises, Sta. Ana said.
“Admiral Locklear also gave assurance that in spite of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the US remains committed to its policy of rebalancing to Asia, emphasizing that the rebalance includes, political, economic and military aspects,” Sta. Ana added.
Locklear also reiterated before Gazmin, Bautista and Alano that while the US does not take sides on the West Philippine Sea issue, the US remains concerned about developments in the area and emphasized that they are opposed to unilateral actions that will change the status quo.
Bautista, in an ambushed interview, downplayed their meeting with Locklear as “just a getting-to-know each other" event. But when pressed if the South China Sea issue was discussed, he answered in the affirmative by simply raising both his eyebrows.
Since his assumption as USPACOM commander last year, almost the time when China started flexing its muscle in claiming almost 80 percent of the entire South China Sea, Locklear has been in the country thrice.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/06/07/951301/us-military-commander-phl-execs-tackle-sea-row
Visiting USPACOM chief expresses US neutrality in West PHL Sea issue
From GMA News (Jun 7): Visiting USPACOM chief expresses US neutrality in West PHL Sea issue
The United States remains neutral in the ongoing territorial dispute between the Philippines and China, according to its ranking military official who was in Manila for a two-day working visit.
“The US does not take sides as regards the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue," a Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) statement quoted US Pacific Command (USPACOM) commander Admiral Samuel Locklear III as saying Friday.
He added, however, that the US "remains concerned about developments in the area and emphasized that they are opposed to unilateral actions that will change the status quo.”
Locklear's visit came amid an unresolved dispute between the Philippines and China over overlapping territories in the vast South China Sea. Beijing's aggressive moves have forced Manila to bring the issue to an international court for arbitration.
Locklear was in Manila June 6 and 7 and met with Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and Armed Forces chief General Emmanuel T. Bautista to discuss regional security issues and PH-US defense and military relations.
Beefing up the United States military's presence in the Asia Pacific region was also among the topics discussed, the DND statement said.
Locklear said he and Philippine defense and military officials discussed “modalities of increased rotational presence of the US in the Asia-Pacific and in the Philippines... to include high value and high impact exercises.”
Locklear, who was on his third visit to the country, said his country “remains committed to its policy of rebalancing to Asia, emphasizing that the rebalance includes political economic, and military aspects.”
He maintained that the US “could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.”
“The Philippine and US sides reaffirmed the importance of enhancing their bilateral relations as well as promoting multilateralism,” he added.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/311895/news/nation/visiting-uspacom-chief-expresses-us-neutrality-in-west-phl-sea-issue
The United States remains neutral in the ongoing territorial dispute between the Philippines and China, according to its ranking military official who was in Manila for a two-day working visit.
“The US does not take sides as regards the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue," a Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) statement quoted US Pacific Command (USPACOM) commander Admiral Samuel Locklear III as saying Friday.
He added, however, that the US "remains concerned about developments in the area and emphasized that they are opposed to unilateral actions that will change the status quo.”
Locklear's visit came amid an unresolved dispute between the Philippines and China over overlapping territories in the vast South China Sea. Beijing's aggressive moves have forced Manila to bring the issue to an international court for arbitration.
Locklear was in Manila June 6 and 7 and met with Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and Armed Forces chief General Emmanuel T. Bautista to discuss regional security issues and PH-US defense and military relations.
Beefing up the United States military's presence in the Asia Pacific region was also among the topics discussed, the DND statement said.
Locklear said he and Philippine defense and military officials discussed “modalities of increased rotational presence of the US in the Asia-Pacific and in the Philippines... to include high value and high impact exercises.”
Locklear, who was on his third visit to the country, said his country “remains committed to its policy of rebalancing to Asia, emphasizing that the rebalance includes political economic, and military aspects.”
He maintained that the US “could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.”
“The Philippine and US sides reaffirmed the importance of enhancing their bilateral relations as well as promoting multilateralism,” he added.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/311895/news/nation/visiting-uspacom-chief-expresses-us-neutrality-in-west-phl-sea-issue
Sabah incursion cases of Sultan Kiram followers to be transferred to Kota Kinabalu — New Straits Times report
From GMA News (Jun 8): Sabah incursion cases of Sultan Kiram followers to be transferred to Kota Kinabalu — New Straits Times report
Cases related to the entry of followers of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III intoSabah earlier this year
may soon be transferred to Kota Kinabalu, a Malaysian news site reported
Friday.
A report on the New Straits Times said the high court in Tawau granted a petition to transfer cases related to the Lahad Datu incident.
Cases related to the entry of followers of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III into
A report on the New Straits Times said the high court in Tawau granted a petition to transfer cases related to the Lahad Datu incident.
It quoted Federal Attorney General Tan Sri Gani Patail as saying Tan Sri Richard Malanjum, Chief Justice of Sabah and Sarawak, granted his application to transfer the cases.
The report added policeman Corporal Hassan Ali Basri, who
was accused of witholding information of terrorist activities, will be the
first to go on trial from June 24 to 27.
Court date for the other accused have been set on June 27, the report added.
Another charged
The New Straits Times also said another man linked to the alleged terrorist intrusion in Lahad Datu was charged in the high court in Tawau Friday.
A Bernama report posted on the New Straits Times identified the latest accused as Totoh Hismullah, but did not immediately say if he was a Filipino or a Malaysian.
Hismullah was charged with waging war against the King and being a member of a terrorist group, the New Straits Times report said.
Waging war on the King carries the death penalty upon conviction, while terrorism carries the penalty of life imprisonment upon conviction.
The charges lodged against Hismullah brought to 31 the number of people charged in relation to the Sabah row so far.
Kiram's followers entered Sabah last February and engaged Malaysian forces in a three-week standoff. The standoff ended with deadly clashes on March 1 and 2.
In turn, the deadly clashes prompted Malaysian forces to conduct offensives to flush out the Kiram followers.
PHL lawyer
Meanwhile, NST reported James Tsai, a lawyer appointed by the Philippine government to represent its citizens facing charges for the Sabah row, will represent 24 Filipinos charged in the case.
Tsai said the Kota Kinabalu High Court is to hear on June 12 an application by lawyer Datuk N. Sivananthan to join the team.
US ship, submarine arrive in Subic
From ABS-CBN (Jun 8): US ship, submarine arrive in Subic
A US Navy submarine tender and submarine arrived at the Subic Bay port on Saturday.
The submarine tender USS Frank Cable and submarine USS Asheville are docked in Subic for a routine port call and maintenance.
The visit will also allow US sailors to tour the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
Officials earlier said the visit aims to "highlight the strong historic community and military relations between the Philippines and the United States."
The women’s group Kaisa Ka, meanwhile, protests the presence of US military personnel in the country.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/06/08/13/us-ship-submarine-arrive-subic
A US Navy submarine tender and submarine arrived at the Subic Bay port on Saturday.
The submarine tender USS Frank Cable and submarine USS Asheville are docked in Subic for a routine port call and maintenance.
The visit will also allow US sailors to tour the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
Officials earlier said the visit aims to "highlight the strong historic community and military relations between the Philippines and the United States."
The women’s group Kaisa Ka, meanwhile, protests the presence of US military personnel in the country.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/06/08/13/us-ship-submarine-arrive-subic
4 ’rebels’ released from jail
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 8): 4 ’rebels’ released from jail
An alleged leader of the New People’s Army in southern Negros, and his wife, remained in jail, while four of their companions were released after posting bail of P12,000 each for violation of the Comelec gun ban.
Police said the arrest of Reniel Cellon, alias Ka Kumpol, commander of the Sentro de Grabidad Platoon of the NPA South West Front, his wife, Mary Jane Magquilat, alias Ka Chin Chin, and four of their companions, Jose Sonny Boy Ditomal, Rodrigo Maricasa, Antonio Estaniel and Edson Gonzales, at a Comelec checkpoint on April in Ilog, yielded a .45 caliber pistol, a fragmentation grenade, .22 caliber pistol, a rifle grenade and hundreds of live ammunition for an M-16 assault rifle and carbine.
Senior Inspector Joshua Villasis, Ilog police chief, yesterday said the four companions of Cellon and Magquilat, were, however, freed from jail, after posting bail.
Aside from the gun ban charges, Cellon and Magquilat are also facing murder charges, which are non-bailable offenses, and frustrated murder,Villasis said. They are now detained at the Negros Occidental Provincial District Jail in Bago City.
The .45 caliber pistol recovered from Cellon was traced by the military to have been owned by the slain Army PFC John Ilisan, who was gunned down by suspected NPA assassins last year in Sipalay City, military records show.
Villasis said they have arrested nine gun ban violators in Ilog, from January to June 5 and a certain Paul Lester Pallares has been added to the list of apprehended suspects.
The arrest of Pallares in Brgy. Tabu, Ilog, yielded a homemade 12-gauge shotgun with a live ammunition.
Of the nine arrested, only Cellon, Magquilat and Pallares are still in jail.
Five days before the gun ban implementation is lifted on June 12, more than 50 violators were accounted for by the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, police records also show.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/June/08/topstory4.htm
An alleged leader of the New People’s Army in southern Negros, and his wife, remained in jail, while four of their companions were released after posting bail of P12,000 each for violation of the Comelec gun ban.
Police said the arrest of Reniel Cellon, alias Ka Kumpol, commander of the Sentro de Grabidad Platoon of the NPA South West Front, his wife, Mary Jane Magquilat, alias Ka Chin Chin, and four of their companions, Jose Sonny Boy Ditomal, Rodrigo Maricasa, Antonio Estaniel and Edson Gonzales, at a Comelec checkpoint on April in Ilog, yielded a .45 caliber pistol, a fragmentation grenade, .22 caliber pistol, a rifle grenade and hundreds of live ammunition for an M-16 assault rifle and carbine.
Senior Inspector Joshua Villasis, Ilog police chief, yesterday said the four companions of Cellon and Magquilat, were, however, freed from jail, after posting bail.
Aside from the gun ban charges, Cellon and Magquilat are also facing murder charges, which are non-bailable offenses, and frustrated murder,Villasis said. They are now detained at the Negros Occidental Provincial District Jail in Bago City.
The .45 caliber pistol recovered from Cellon was traced by the military to have been owned by the slain Army PFC John Ilisan, who was gunned down by suspected NPA assassins last year in Sipalay City, military records show.
Villasis said they have arrested nine gun ban violators in Ilog, from January to June 5 and a certain Paul Lester Pallares has been added to the list of apprehended suspects.
The arrest of Pallares in Brgy. Tabu, Ilog, yielded a homemade 12-gauge shotgun with a live ammunition.
Of the nine arrested, only Cellon, Magquilat and Pallares are still in jail.
Five days before the gun ban implementation is lifted on June 12, more than 50 violators were accounted for by the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, police records also show.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/June/08/topstory4.htm
4 hurt in CVO vs MILF gunbattle
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jun 8): 4 hurt in CVO vs MILF gunbattle
KIDAPAWAN CITY -- Four were wounded in an encounter between elements of the Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) at 4:02 p.m. last Thursday in Cotabato province.
Wounded in the gun fight were Rapani Saban of the CVO and three rebels whose names were unknown.
Colonel Donald Gumiran, commander of 7th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, said that the CVO forces and the 105th Base Command of the MILF battled each other in the border between Barangay Langayen, Pikit, and Barangay Dungguan, Aleosan.
The two groups subsequently traded shots using long firearms for two hours.
The shooting stopped only when local officials intervened, headed by Aleosan Mayor Loreto Cabaya and Pikit Mayor Sumulong Sultan with the GPH-MILF Ceasefire Committee and members of the International Monitoring Team.
The CVO claimed that the group of Commander Kuyo and Commander Nasser of the 105th Base Command of the MILF approached their outpost and opened fire.
Meanwhile, hundreds of families evacuated for fear that they might get in the crossfire.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2013/06/08/4-hurt-cvo-vs-milf-gunbattle-286382
KIDAPAWAN CITY -- Four were wounded in an encounter between elements of the Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) at 4:02 p.m. last Thursday in Cotabato province.
Wounded in the gun fight were Rapani Saban of the CVO and three rebels whose names were unknown.
Colonel Donald Gumiran, commander of 7th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, said that the CVO forces and the 105th Base Command of the MILF battled each other in the border between Barangay Langayen, Pikit, and Barangay Dungguan, Aleosan.
The two groups subsequently traded shots using long firearms for two hours.
The shooting stopped only when local officials intervened, headed by Aleosan Mayor Loreto Cabaya and Pikit Mayor Sumulong Sultan with the GPH-MILF Ceasefire Committee and members of the International Monitoring Team.
The CVO claimed that the group of Commander Kuyo and Commander Nasser of the 105th Base Command of the MILF approached their outpost and opened fire.
Meanwhile, hundreds of families evacuated for fear that they might get in the crossfire.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2013/06/08/4-hurt-cvo-vs-milf-gunbattle-286382
Army: 74 NPA members have so far surrendered
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jun 8): Army: 74 NPA members have so far surrendered
A TOTAL of 74 members of the New People's Army (NPA) have returned to the fold of the law since January of this year.
10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Lyndon Paniza bared this during the Armed Forces of the Philippine-Philippine National Police (AFP-PNP) press corps at the Task Force Davao headquarters Thursday.
Paniza said the total of number of those who surrendered for the first five months of this year is a good indication that this year's total may increase compared to last year's total which is 186.
"Naga-expect mi na mas daghan ang musurreder this year labi na nga naa na ang Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). Initially, ang CLIP nagahatag ug P15,000 nga immediate assistance. Makadawat pud sila ug P50,000 worth of livelihood program (We are expecting that there will be an increase in the number of those who surrendered this year especially that there is already the CLIP. Initially, CLIP offers P15,000 immediate assistance. They will also receive P50,000 worth of livelihood program)," Paniza said.
The rebel returnees who will be benefiting from the CLIP will be monitored by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for three years to ensure that the former communist rebels are well equipped to become contributing members of the society.
The army official also said those rebel returnees who will be surrendering firearms will also be receiving cash incentives as part of the AFP project called the Guns for Peace.
Paniza added that the number of surrenderees can be attributed to their Peace and Development Outreach Program.
"Aside from reaching out to the barangay officials for their surrender, our Peace and Development Teams (PDTs) have already established trust among the rebels so some of them go directly to these military personnel to facilitate their surrender," Paniza said.
Commander of the 69th Infantry Battalion Lt. Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, who was also guest at the AFP-PNP press corps, said: "Naging role na din ng PDTs ang mag-facilitate ng mga surrender ng mga returnees. Sila na din ang nag-assist sa pagproseso ng CLIP (Facilitating the surrenders of rebel returnees have become an added role for the PDTs. They also assist the processing of the CLIP for the surrenderees)."
He said they are coordinating with DSWD to determine the right livelihood programs for the rebel returnees.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2013/06/08/army-74-npa-members-have-so-far-surrendered-286387
A TOTAL of 74 members of the New People's Army (NPA) have returned to the fold of the law since January of this year.
10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Lyndon Paniza bared this during the Armed Forces of the Philippine-Philippine National Police (AFP-PNP) press corps at the Task Force Davao headquarters Thursday.
Paniza said the total of number of those who surrendered for the first five months of this year is a good indication that this year's total may increase compared to last year's total which is 186.
"Naga-expect mi na mas daghan ang musurreder this year labi na nga naa na ang Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). Initially, ang CLIP nagahatag ug P15,000 nga immediate assistance. Makadawat pud sila ug P50,000 worth of livelihood program (We are expecting that there will be an increase in the number of those who surrendered this year especially that there is already the CLIP. Initially, CLIP offers P15,000 immediate assistance. They will also receive P50,000 worth of livelihood program)," Paniza said.
The rebel returnees who will be benefiting from the CLIP will be monitored by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for three years to ensure that the former communist rebels are well equipped to become contributing members of the society.
The army official also said those rebel returnees who will be surrendering firearms will also be receiving cash incentives as part of the AFP project called the Guns for Peace.
Paniza added that the number of surrenderees can be attributed to their Peace and Development Outreach Program.
"Aside from reaching out to the barangay officials for their surrender, our Peace and Development Teams (PDTs) have already established trust among the rebels so some of them go directly to these military personnel to facilitate their surrender," Paniza said.
Commander of the 69th Infantry Battalion Lt. Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, who was also guest at the AFP-PNP press corps, said: "Naging role na din ng PDTs ang mag-facilitate ng mga surrender ng mga returnees. Sila na din ang nag-assist sa pagproseso ng CLIP (Facilitating the surrenders of rebel returnees have become an added role for the PDTs. They also assist the processing of the CLIP for the surrenderees)."
He said they are coordinating with DSWD to determine the right livelihood programs for the rebel returnees.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2013/06/08/army-74-npa-members-have-so-far-surrendered-286387
Wounded Filipino Peacekeeper in “good and stable” condition
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 7): Wounded Filipino Peacekeeper in “good and stable” condition
The Filipino peacekeeper wounded after a wayward indirect fire landed at the United Nation’sCamp Ziouni in the Golan Heights
is now in stable condition, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday.
The incident happened while there was fighting between Syrian government and rebel forces some three to four kilometers away from Camp Ziouni, the logistics base of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Golan Heights.
A member of the 6th Philippine contingent to theGolan
Heights , the Filipino was hit by shrapnel just above his right
ankle.
“He was immediately given medical treatment and is now in a good and stable condition,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a press briefing.
The wounding of a Filipino peacekeeper in the Golan Heights “highlighted once again how the deteriorating security situation inSyria
The DFA earlier recommended to President Benigno S. Aquino III to withdraw more than 300 Filipino peacekeepers from the area as soon as possible following the second kidnapping of Philippine troops in the volatile region by rebels last month.
“While we remain steadfast in our support for UNDOF’s mandate and mission, our priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our people,” Hernandez said.
“In this context, the DFA has already submitted to the President its recommendation for the immediate pullout of the Philippine peacekeeping contingent in theGolan Heights .”
The peacekeepers are part of the U.N. mission monitoring the armistice line in Golan Heights betweenSyria
and Israel
“We would like to emphasize that peacekeepers should not be exposed to that kind of risk. They form an impartial observer force with the important task of maintaining peace in an area that used to be a site of conflict. As such, the peacekeepers should be assured of their safety and security,” Hernandez said.
“We also call on all concerned parties to ensure that the freedom of movement and safety and security of the UNDOF are observed,” he added.
The Philippines has a total of 742 police, military and jail personnel in eight U.N. peacekeeping operations, namely Haiti, Liberia, South Sudan, Cote d’ Ivoire, the disputed territory of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan, the India-Pakistan border and Afghanistan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532288
The Filipino peacekeeper wounded after a wayward indirect fire landed at the United Nation’s
The incident happened while there was fighting between Syrian government and rebel forces some three to four kilometers away from Camp Ziouni, the logistics base of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Golan Heights.
A member of the 6th Philippine contingent to the
“He was immediately given medical treatment and is now in a good and stable condition,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a press briefing.
The wounding of a Filipino peacekeeper in the Golan Heights “highlighted once again how the deteriorating security situation in
The DFA earlier recommended to President Benigno S. Aquino III to withdraw more than 300 Filipino peacekeepers from the area as soon as possible following the second kidnapping of Philippine troops in the volatile region by rebels last month.
“While we remain steadfast in our support for UNDOF’s mandate and mission, our priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our people,” Hernandez said.
“In this context, the DFA has already submitted to the President its recommendation for the immediate pullout of the Philippine peacekeeping contingent in the
The peacekeepers are part of the U.N. mission monitoring the armistice line in Golan Heights between
“We would like to emphasize that peacekeepers should not be exposed to that kind of risk. They form an impartial observer force with the important task of maintaining peace in an area that used to be a site of conflict. As such, the peacekeepers should be assured of their safety and security,” Hernandez said.
“We also call on all concerned parties to ensure that the freedom of movement and safety and security of the UNDOF are observed,” he added.
The Philippines has a total of 742 police, military and jail personnel in eight U.N. peacekeeping operations, namely Haiti, Liberia, South Sudan, Cote d’ Ivoire, the disputed territory of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan, the India-Pakistan border and Afghanistan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532288
8th Infantry Division to perform more community development missions
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): 8th Infantry Division to perform more community development missions
Aside from securing theEastern Visayas
from all forms of security threats, 8th Infantry Division chief, Major Gen.
Ricardo Layug, announced that they will conduct more community development
missions in line with the military's "Bayanihan" program.
The latter refers to the initiative where the military and the government aims to defeat insurgency through community development programs.
"The 8th Infantry will continue to support all endeavors initiated by our stakeholders in the spirit of "Bayanihan,” Layug stressed.
The 8th Infantry Division is based inCamp
Lukban , Catbalogan
City , Samar .
He also added that his unit has evolved from conducting purely military operations to performing non-military operations such as medical missions and humanitarian assistance.
"And we assure our people in this part of the country that we will continue to serve them and support our stakeholders to help alleviate their living conditions," Layug added.
Earlier, troopers from the 8th Infantry Division participated in the Department of Education's “Brigada Eskuwela” program which cleaned and repaired public schools for the June 3 opening of classes.
Soldiers from the latter unit participated in 124 “Brigada Eskuwela” activities all overEastern Visayas where they
conducted renovation and repainting of facilities, repair of fences, chairs and
tables and cleanliness drive within school campuses and immediate vicinities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532397
Aside from securing the
The latter refers to the initiative where the military and the government aims to defeat insurgency through community development programs.
"The 8th Infantry will continue to support all endeavors initiated by our stakeholders in the spirit of "Bayanihan,” Layug stressed.
The 8th Infantry Division is based in
He also added that his unit has evolved from conducting purely military operations to performing non-military operations such as medical missions and humanitarian assistance.
"And we assure our people in this part of the country that we will continue to serve them and support our stakeholders to help alleviate their living conditions," Layug added.
Earlier, troopers from the 8th Infantry Division participated in the Department of Education's “Brigada Eskuwela” program which cleaned and repaired public schools for the June 3 opening of classes.
Soldiers from the latter unit participated in 124 “Brigada Eskuwela” activities all over
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532397
Lucero laid to rest Saturday
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): Lucero laid to rest Saturday
Brig. Gen. Daniel Lucero, the 1st Infantry Division commander who died of an apparent heart attack last June 2, was laid to rest at the "Libingan ng Mga Bayani" in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Saturday afternoon.
"He was given a 21-gun salute and the usual military honors befitting his rank and exemplary service to the military," Army spokesperson Lt. Randolph Cabangbang said.
Necrological services for the late officer was also held Friday night.
Lucero's remains arrived at the "Libingan ng Mga Bayani",Taguig City
Lucero's remains was ferried by C-130 cargo aircraft fromPagadian City
Prior this, the body of the deceased was placed at stateat the "Tabak" Chapel in Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
The latter is the headquarters of the 1st Infantry Division, the unit the deceased commanded before his death.
Lucero has just finished diving offTuluran Beach
He passed away at theMendero Hospital in Pagadian City
"Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and the rest of the AFP extends their deepest condolences and prayers to Brig. Gen. Lucero's wife, Maria Consuelo, and daughter Paula Divina," AFP public affairs office chief Major Ramon Zagala earlier said.
Lucero is a member of Philippine Military Class of 1983.
The deceased is a member of Philippine Military Academy "Matikas" Class of 1983.
The former was appointed to head the 1st Infantry Division only last April 22.
He headed the 1002nd Infantry Brigade before assuming command of the latter unit.
As former battalion commander based in Basilan, Lucero led the assault against the Abu Sayyaf in May 2001 for kidnapping more than 20 Filipino and foreign tourists from Dos Palmas inPalawan .
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532438
Brig. Gen. Daniel Lucero, the 1st Infantry Division commander who died of an apparent heart attack last June 2, was laid to rest at the "Libingan ng Mga Bayani" in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Saturday afternoon.
"He was given a 21-gun salute and the usual military honors befitting his rank and exemplary service to the military," Army spokesperson Lt. Randolph Cabangbang said.
Necrological services for the late officer was also held Friday night.
Lucero's remains arrived at the "Libingan ng Mga Bayani",
Lucero's remains was ferried by C-130 cargo aircraft from
Prior this, the body of the deceased was placed at stateat the "Tabak" Chapel in Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
The latter is the headquarters of the 1st Infantry Division, the unit the deceased commanded before his death.
Lucero has just finished diving off
He passed away at the
"Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and the rest of the AFP extends their deepest condolences and prayers to Brig. Gen. Lucero's wife, Maria Consuelo, and daughter Paula Divina," AFP public affairs office chief Major Ramon Zagala earlier said.
Lucero is a member of Philippine Military Class of 1983.
The deceased is a member of Philippine Military Academy "Matikas" Class of 1983.
The former was appointed to head the 1st Infantry Division only last April 22.
He headed the 1002nd Infantry Brigade before assuming command of the latter unit.
As former battalion commander based in Basilan, Lucero led the assault against the Abu Sayyaf in May 2001 for kidnapping more than 20 Filipino and foreign tourists from Dos Palmas in
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=532438
Info campaign, livelihood training highlight National Reservist week celebration in E. Visayas
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 7): Info campaign, livelihood training highlight National Reservist week celebration in E. Visayas
An advocacy campaign and livelihood training symposium highlighted the gathering of Army Reservists from all throughout Eastern Visayas in line with the 34th National Reservists Week celebration here at theBalyuan Convention Center
Lt. Col. Arthur Balunes Jr., commanding officer of the 5thAir Reserve
Center
Likewise through the activity, the AFP sought to enhance the potential of reservists in order to make them responsive and capable.
During peacetime, reservists who are mostly civilians have other careers outside the military. They are only called to active duty when necessary or when the state needs their services, usually in times of strife or war.
Balunes said the reservists are also a force multiplier of the AFP in communities and can be tapped to accomplish local projects.
He added that when needed the reservists would gladly take part in any socio-civic undertaking as when they donned their uniform, they swore to be free from any political influence.
During the whole-day gathering participants were briefed on topics to include why one should join the reserve force and who are qualified to be part of the AFP Reserve Force and AFP Affiliated Reserve Unit (AFP ARU) Program.
The last part of the gathering was a livelihood training symposium, which discussed important activities that reservist can engage in outside of the service.
Meanwhile, city administrator Tecson John Lim represented Tacloban City Mayor Alfred S. Romualdez, who was invited as guest of honor for the celebration.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532286
An advocacy campaign and livelihood training symposium highlighted the gathering of Army Reservists from all throughout Eastern Visayas in line with the 34th National Reservists Week celebration here at the
Lt. Col. Arthur Balunes Jr., commanding officer of the 5th
Likewise through the activity, the AFP sought to enhance the potential of reservists in order to make them responsive and capable.
During peacetime, reservists who are mostly civilians have other careers outside the military. They are only called to active duty when necessary or when the state needs their services, usually in times of strife or war.
Balunes said the reservists are also a force multiplier of the AFP in communities and can be tapped to accomplish local projects.
He added that when needed the reservists would gladly take part in any socio-civic undertaking as when they donned their uniform, they swore to be free from any political influence.
During the whole-day gathering participants were briefed on topics to include why one should join the reserve force and who are qualified to be part of the AFP Reserve Force and AFP Affiliated Reserve Unit (AFP ARU) Program.
The last part of the gathering was a livelihood training symposium, which discussed important activities that reservist can engage in outside of the service.
Meanwhile, city administrator Tecson John Lim represented Tacloban City Mayor Alfred S. Romualdez, who was invited as guest of honor for the celebration.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532286
Army chief awards apartments to 4ID personnel
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): Army chief awards apartments to 4ID personnel
The commanding general of the Philippine Army led the awarding of apartments for 10 officers and enlisted personnel here, the military said on Saturday.
Maj. Leo E. Bongosia, spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said that the apartments were part of the military’s program in uplifting the living conditions of army personnel working inside the major military installations in the country.
The army’s 4th ID based atCamp Evangelista here is one of the largest military
installations in Mindanao . The army division
covers the Caraga Region in Northeastern Mindanao and Region 10 in Northern Mindanao .
Bongosia said the military officers and personnel who availed of the housing project would pay the monthly premiums through an automatic monthly deduction of their quarters allowance.
He said that those whose actual residence were located outsideMindanao and those who renting outside the army camp were
given priority.
During the awarding ceremony, the army’s commanding general Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes stressed that the housing program was intended to provide decent and affordable housing units to members of the Armed Forces, Bongosia added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532409
The commanding general of the Philippine Army led the awarding of apartments for 10 officers and enlisted personnel here, the military said on Saturday.
Maj. Leo E. Bongosia, spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said that the apartments were part of the military’s program in uplifting the living conditions of army personnel working inside the major military installations in the country.
The army’s 4th ID based at
Bongosia said the military officers and personnel who availed of the housing project would pay the monthly premiums through an automatic monthly deduction of their quarters allowance.
He said that those whose actual residence were located outside
During the awarding ceremony, the army’s commanding general Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes stressed that the housing program was intended to provide decent and affordable housing units to members of the Armed Forces, Bongosia added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532409
Young PMA officer killed in Misamis Oriental encounter
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): Young PMA officer killed in Misamis Oriental encounter
CAMP EVANGELISTA
Maj. Leo E. Bongosia, spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the 2nd Lt. Dennis Avila, 24, of PMA Class 2011, and a native of Tarlac, succumbed to serious gunshot wounds while being treated at the military hospital here around 7:00 p.m. Friday.
He saidAvila
The other wounded army officer was Private First Class Ales Andilong, also of the 58th IB. Andilong who was also brought to the military hospital here is now out of danger, Bongosia added.
He said that Avila’s team was on combat operations in the farming village of Abacahan in Mat-I, Claveria, Misamis Oriental when they encountered about 30 fully armed rebels resulting in a running gun battle that started past 11:00 a.m. Friday.
Bongosia said thatAvila ’s team pursued the
withdrawing NPA rebels toward the borders of Malitbog in a more than an hour
intermittent gun battle that resulted in the wounding of Avila
Avila
He saidAvila
According to Bongosia, the military mourned the lost one of the most promising military officers here whose courage and dedication to duty were proven during his short stint at the army’s 58th IB.
Bongosia said thatAvila ’s remains would be
airlifted to Manila
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532407
Maj. Leo E. Bongosia, spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the 2nd Lt. Dennis Avila, 24, of PMA Class 2011, and a native of Tarlac, succumbed to serious gunshot wounds while being treated at the military hospital here around 7:00 p.m. Friday.
He said
The other wounded army officer was Private First Class Ales Andilong, also of the 58th IB. Andilong who was also brought to the military hospital here is now out of danger, Bongosia added.
He said that Avila’s team was on combat operations in the farming village of Abacahan in Mat-I, Claveria, Misamis Oriental when they encountered about 30 fully armed rebels resulting in a running gun battle that started past 11:00 a.m. Friday.
Bongosia said that
He said
According to Bongosia, the military mourned the lost one of the most promising military officers here whose courage and dedication to duty were proven during his short stint at the army’s 58th IB.
Bongosia said that
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532407
2 die as MNLF, MILF clash anew in North Cotabato
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): 2 die as MNLF, MILF clash anew in North Cotabato
Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) were killed when rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked a farming village inNorth Cotabato on Friday, the military here said
Saturday.
Captain Antonio Bulao, local Army spokesperson, said the MILF, in a clear violation of a localized truce, attacked thevillage
of Marbel in Matalam town in North Cotabato Friday, killing two unarmed members of the
MNLF.
Bulao identified the victims as Toto Manial and Eddie Buisan, who both died on the spot from gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Quoting reports from village officials and Army stationed in Barangay Marbel, Bulao said the victims were returning to their farmlands when armed MILF, led by Commanders Ali Mansur and Commander Salonga of the MILF’s 108th base command, fired at them.
”It was a clear violation of the localized truce by the MILF,” Bulao said of the MILF attack.
The MNLF retaliated and a shooting war ensued. Fighting ceased when the Army fired warning shots from mortars and howitzers.
Bulao stressed that a local peace agreement was forged between the leaders of the MILF and MNLF with participation of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) and local government units ofNorth
Cotabato .
The agreement calls for the repositioning of MILF reinforcement troops from Barangay Marbel where MNLF and MILF clashed before the May 13 elections.
”They did not reposition their troops, instead they continued harassing civilians identified with the MNLF,” Bulao added.
The MNLF-MILF conflict started on May 5 when the MILF was to hold an advocacy forum for the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro in Barangay Marbel, a known bailiwick of the MNLF and declared peace zones after the MNLF forged an agreement with the government in 1996.
Datu Dima Ambel, MNLF leader in the area, allowed the MILF to hold the forum as this was for peace but requested the MILF not to wear fatigue uniform or carry guns.
But the MILF came in full battle gear and fatigue uniforms with high powered firearms which insulted the MNLF leader. Skirmishes between two Moro rebel groups ensued, leaving at least three persons killed and three others wounded.
The Army, LGU and IMT came into the picture and normalized the situation with the localized truce but the MILF violated its provisions, the Army said.
Thousands of civilians have been displaced by the on-off skirmishes between the two warring groups.
Both sides declared that the conflict was not organizational but more of a territorial dispute.
Barangay Marbel is a known sugarcane and corn plantation areas recognized by the government as peace zone.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532441
Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) were killed when rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked a farming village in
Captain Antonio Bulao, local Army spokesperson, said the MILF, in a clear violation of a localized truce, attacked the
Bulao identified the victims as Toto Manial and Eddie Buisan, who both died on the spot from gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Quoting reports from village officials and Army stationed in Barangay Marbel, Bulao said the victims were returning to their farmlands when armed MILF, led by Commanders Ali Mansur and Commander Salonga of the MILF’s 108th base command, fired at them.
”It was a clear violation of the localized truce by the MILF,” Bulao said of the MILF attack.
The MNLF retaliated and a shooting war ensued. Fighting ceased when the Army fired warning shots from mortars and howitzers.
Bulao stressed that a local peace agreement was forged between the leaders of the MILF and MNLF with participation of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) and local government units of
The agreement calls for the repositioning of MILF reinforcement troops from Barangay Marbel where MNLF and MILF clashed before the May 13 elections.
”They did not reposition their troops, instead they continued harassing civilians identified with the MNLF,” Bulao added.
The MNLF-MILF conflict started on May 5 when the MILF was to hold an advocacy forum for the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro in Barangay Marbel, a known bailiwick of the MNLF and declared peace zones after the MNLF forged an agreement with the government in 1996.
Datu Dima Ambel, MNLF leader in the area, allowed the MILF to hold the forum as this was for peace but requested the MILF not to wear fatigue uniform or carry guns.
But the MILF came in full battle gear and fatigue uniforms with high powered firearms which insulted the MNLF leader. Skirmishes between two Moro rebel groups ensued, leaving at least three persons killed and three others wounded.
The Army, LGU and IMT came into the picture and normalized the situation with the localized truce but the MILF violated its provisions, the Army said.
Thousands of civilians have been displaced by the on-off skirmishes between the two warring groups.
Both sides declared that the conflict was not organizational but more of a territorial dispute.
Barangay Marbel is a known sugarcane and corn plantation areas recognized by the government as peace zone.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=532441
PACOM chief reiterates commitment to enhance AFP capability in maritime security
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 7): PACOM chief reiterates commitment to enhance AFP capability in maritime security
During his Friday visit to ranking defense and military officials, US Pacific Command (PACOM) head Adm. Samuel Locklear III reiterated Washington's commitment to boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines's maritime security and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief.
"The Admiral discussed how the US could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR)," the Dept. of National Defense statement on Locklear's visit stated.
Locklear met with DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.
Modalities of increased rotational presence of theUS in the Asia-Pacific and in the Philippines
Locklear's two-day visit, his third to thePhilippines
Both the Philippine and US sides reaffirmed the importance of enhancing their bilateral relations as well as promoting multi-lateralism.
Locklear also reiterated that while theUS
does not take sides as regards the West Philippine Sea issue, the US
He also gave the assurance that in spite of the on-going crisis in the Middle East, theUS remains
committed to its policy of re-balancing to Asia ,
emphasizing that the re-balance includes political economic, and military
aspects.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=532271
During his Friday visit to ranking defense and military officials, US Pacific Command (PACOM) head Adm. Samuel Locklear III reiterated Washington's commitment to boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines's maritime security and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief.
"The Admiral discussed how the US could contribute in enhancing the capability of the AFP in meeting emerging security challenges to include maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR)," the Dept. of National Defense statement on Locklear's visit stated.
Locklear met with DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.
Modalities of increased rotational presence of the
Locklear's two-day visit, his third to the
Both the Philippine and US sides reaffirmed the importance of enhancing their bilateral relations as well as promoting multi-lateralism.
Locklear also reiterated that while the
He also gave the assurance that in spite of the on-going crisis in the Middle East, the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=532271
Military's modernization a government priority, assures Palace official
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 8): Military's modernization a government priority, assures Palace official
The Aquino administration will remain focused on attaining a minimum credible defense position to protect the country’s sovereignty against both external and internal threats, a Palace official said Saturday.
In a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the Aquino government already accomplished a lot in modernizing the country’s police and military.
Lacierda’s statements came amidst some lawmakers' calls to increase the 2014 budget of the Armed Forces and Philippine National Police so these can better address external and internal threats.
He said the current thrust of government is modernizing the Philippine police and military.
“In only a span of three years, we have devoted a substantial amount of money towards modernizing our armed forces,” he said.
Under the AFP Modernization Law, the Aquino administration was able to acquire aHamilton class cutter from the US
The navy is also awaiting arrival of another naval ship from theUS
The military also acquired several combat helicopters fromPoland
There are additional deliveries of more choppers as well as jet fighters most probably fromSouth Korea
“We are going to achieve what we have always maintained, what the President has always said — a minimum credible defense position - and if the lawmakers would wish to add to the budget of the AFP, again, we are going through a budget deliberation process,” Lacierda said.
“It is within the process itself as to their discretion how they would like to assist in further modernizing our forces.”
He further said if Congress wants to increase the budget for both military and the police, that'll be a great help to the country.
Adding any amount should be in the budget process and budget deliberations, he noted.
Modernizing the Philippine military is seen as a necessity for the country as tension is rising in theWest Philippine Sea .
Other countries are also aggressively pursuing respective claims in that area.
Among territorial concerns of thePhilippines
are the alleged continuous patrols of China
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=532462
The Aquino administration will remain focused on attaining a minimum credible defense position to protect the country’s sovereignty against both external and internal threats, a Palace official said Saturday.
In a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the Aquino government already accomplished a lot in modernizing the country’s police and military.
Lacierda’s statements came amidst some lawmakers' calls to increase the 2014 budget of the Armed Forces and Philippine National Police so these can better address external and internal threats.
He said the current thrust of government is modernizing the Philippine police and military.
“In only a span of three years, we have devoted a substantial amount of money towards modernizing our armed forces,” he said.
Under the AFP Modernization Law, the Aquino administration was able to acquire a
The navy is also awaiting arrival of another naval ship from the
The military also acquired several combat helicopters from
There are additional deliveries of more choppers as well as jet fighters most probably from
“We are going to achieve what we have always maintained, what the President has always said — a minimum credible defense position - and if the lawmakers would wish to add to the budget of the AFP, again, we are going through a budget deliberation process,” Lacierda said.
“It is within the process itself as to their discretion how they would like to assist in further modernizing our forces.”
He further said if Congress wants to increase the budget for both military and the police, that'll be a great help to the country.
Adding any amount should be in the budget process and budget deliberations, he noted.
Modernizing the Philippine military is seen as a necessity for the country as tension is rising in the
Other countries are also aggressively pursuing respective claims in that area.
Among territorial concerns of the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=532462
Video on Balintang shooting likely tampered – NBI source
From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 8): Video on Balintang shooting likely tampered – NBI source
Forensic video experts from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) yesterday cast doubt on the “authenticity” of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) video showing the whole May 9 Balintang Channel shooting incident as probers believed that it was tampered before it was submitted for investigation.
Sources from the NBI said that results from the bureau’s Cybercrime Division showed indications that some of the scenes in the PCG video had already been spliced before it was sent to the bureau at the start of the investigation.
One of the sources quickly noticed that there were some small “cuts” in the two-hour video, a sign that there were scenes in the PCG video that had already been deleted even before the NBI commenced its probe on the Balintang shooting.
Two other sources, who had seen the video, confirmed the statements of the first source.
“Medyo madilim at magulo yung pagkakakuha nung video at medyo green yung screen. Pero habang pinapanuod namin parang putol-putol,” one of the sources said. “Since medyo putol-putol yung video, kinakailangan talaga na i-verify yung kuha nung video. We verified it and found na may na-edit or natanggal sa video.”
The source, however, declined to elaborate on what part of the video had been edited since it will already give an idea of the content of the PCG video, which allegedly showed the footage of the hot pursuit operation made by the PCG personnel against the Taiwanese poachers that led to the accidental, fatal shooting of Taiwanese Hung Shih-chen, 65.
Hung reportedly sustained a gunshot wound on the neck.
They also declined to answer the question whether the editing of the video, which is tantamount to tampering of evidence, can already be considered as an act of obstruction of justice.
“What I can say is the NBI has competent investigators which can look into the authenticity of videos presented as evidence,” the second source said.
PCG spokesman Armand Balilo declined to comment on the report that the video the agency submitted to the NBI had been tampered.
Balilio said they will just wait for the bureau’s final report on the incident.
“The PCG has already submitted all the documents they were asking, including the video taken by the MCS-3001. The PCG has nothing to hide,” Balilo said.
The two-hour video of the PCG reportedly showed how the Taiwanese fishing vessel taunted those aboard the MCS-3001, a patrol vessel owned by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources but manned by coast guard, by moving in circles.
After engaging in a high seas chase, the coast guard aimed for what they thought was the engine room to stop the boat but they accidentally hit Hung in the process.
But contrary to earlier reports, only a few coast guard personnel laughed after one of the M-16 rifles of the PCG got stuck up and failed to fire.
As this developed, the Taiwanese investigators and NBI had already ironed out some of the supposed “discrepancies” in their parallel probes, including the exact coordinates of the shooting incident and the number of rifles used by the PCG.
http://mb.com.ph/News/Main_News/16142/Video_on_Balintang_shooting_likely_tampered_–_NBI_source#.UbMOR47D9jo
Forensic video experts from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) yesterday cast doubt on the “authenticity” of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) video showing the whole May 9 Balintang Channel shooting incident as probers believed that it was tampered before it was submitted for investigation.
Sources from the NBI said that results from the bureau’s Cybercrime Division showed indications that some of the scenes in the PCG video had already been spliced before it was sent to the bureau at the start of the investigation.
One of the sources quickly noticed that there were some small “cuts” in the two-hour video, a sign that there were scenes in the PCG video that had already been deleted even before the NBI commenced its probe on the Balintang shooting.
Two other sources, who had seen the video, confirmed the statements of the first source.
“Medyo madilim at magulo yung pagkakakuha nung video at medyo green yung screen. Pero habang pinapanuod namin parang putol-putol,” one of the sources said. “Since medyo putol-putol yung video, kinakailangan talaga na i-verify yung kuha nung video. We verified it and found na may na-edit or natanggal sa video.”
The source, however, declined to elaborate on what part of the video had been edited since it will already give an idea of the content of the PCG video, which allegedly showed the footage of the hot pursuit operation made by the PCG personnel against the Taiwanese poachers that led to the accidental, fatal shooting of Taiwanese Hung Shih-chen, 65.
Hung reportedly sustained a gunshot wound on the neck.
They also declined to answer the question whether the editing of the video, which is tantamount to tampering of evidence, can already be considered as an act of obstruction of justice.
“What I can say is the NBI has competent investigators which can look into the authenticity of videos presented as evidence,” the second source said.
PCG spokesman Armand Balilo declined to comment on the report that the video the agency submitted to the NBI had been tampered.
Balilio said they will just wait for the bureau’s final report on the incident.
“The PCG has already submitted all the documents they were asking, including the video taken by the MCS-3001. The PCG has nothing to hide,” Balilo said.
The two-hour video of the PCG reportedly showed how the Taiwanese fishing vessel taunted those aboard the MCS-3001, a patrol vessel owned by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources but manned by coast guard, by moving in circles.
After engaging in a high seas chase, the coast guard aimed for what they thought was the engine room to stop the boat but they accidentally hit Hung in the process.
But contrary to earlier reports, only a few coast guard personnel laughed after one of the M-16 rifles of the PCG got stuck up and failed to fire.
As this developed, the Taiwanese investigators and NBI had already ironed out some of the supposed “discrepancies” in their parallel probes, including the exact coordinates of the shooting incident and the number of rifles used by the PCG.
http://mb.com.ph/News/Main_News/16142/Video_on_Balintang_shooting_likely_tampered_–_NBI_source#.UbMOR47D9jo
DFA wants pinoy peacekeepers pulled from Golan Heights
From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 7): DFA wants pinoy peacekeepers pulled from Golan Heights
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday reiterated its recommendation for the immediate pull out of Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights due to the worsening security situation in the area.
The call came after Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez confirmed that a Filipino peacekeeper suffered leg injury when a wayward indirect fire landed at Camp Ziouni in Golan Heights Thursday morning (Thursday afternoon Manila time).
According to Hernandez, he is now in good condition and has returned to the camp after being treated at a hospital.
The DFA said the incident happened while there was fighting ongoing between Syrian government and rebel forces, some 3 to 4 kilometers away from Camp Ziouni, the logistics base of the United Nations Field Operations Division (UNFOD) where different peacekeeping missions are based including the 6PCGH.
“We have made recommendations to the President to pull out the peacekeeper in Golan Heights due to the security situation there," announced the DFA Spokesperson.
Last month, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario personally recommended to President Benigno Aquino III the withdrawal of Filipino peacekeepers.
Malacanang has yet to issue a decision about the issue.
The Philippines has 843 peacekeepers over 8 missions throughout the world.
There are 341 Filipino members of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), which has monitored a ceasefire between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights since 1974.
On Thursday, Austria announced it would withdraw its 377 troops, which is more than one third of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) after Syrian rebels briefly seized a crossing on the Israel-Syria ceasefire line.
The Austrian pullout would leave the force with just 341 troops from the Philippines and 193 from India.
"The AFP continues to monitor the situation in the area, likewise we assure the safety and wellbeing of our peacekeepers will remain a priority," said DFA Spokesperson Raul Hernandez in a statement issued Friday morning.
http://mb.com.ph/News/National_News/16066/DFA_wants_pinoy_peacekeepers_pulled_from_Golan_Heights#.UbMNW47D9jo
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday reiterated its recommendation for the immediate pull out of Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights due to the worsening security situation in the area.
The call came after Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez confirmed that a Filipino peacekeeper suffered leg injury when a wayward indirect fire landed at Camp Ziouni in Golan Heights Thursday morning (Thursday afternoon Manila time).
According to Hernandez, he is now in good condition and has returned to the camp after being treated at a hospital.
The DFA said the incident happened while there was fighting ongoing between Syrian government and rebel forces, some 3 to 4 kilometers away from Camp Ziouni, the logistics base of the United Nations Field Operations Division (UNFOD) where different peacekeeping missions are based including the 6PCGH.
“We have made recommendations to the President to pull out the peacekeeper in Golan Heights due to the security situation there," announced the DFA Spokesperson.
Last month, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario personally recommended to President Benigno Aquino III the withdrawal of Filipino peacekeepers.
Malacanang has yet to issue a decision about the issue.
The Philippines has 843 peacekeepers over 8 missions throughout the world.
There are 341 Filipino members of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), which has monitored a ceasefire between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights since 1974.
On Thursday, Austria announced it would withdraw its 377 troops, which is more than one third of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) after Syrian rebels briefly seized a crossing on the Israel-Syria ceasefire line.
The Austrian pullout would leave the force with just 341 troops from the Philippines and 193 from India.
"The AFP continues to monitor the situation in the area, likewise we assure the safety and wellbeing of our peacekeepers will remain a priority," said DFA Spokesperson Raul Hernandez in a statement issued Friday morning.
http://mb.com.ph/News/National_News/16066/DFA_wants_pinoy_peacekeepers_pulled_from_Golan_Heights#.UbMNW47D9jo
Rebel killed in Samar encounter
From the Leyte Samar Daily Express (Jun 8): Rebel killed in Samar encounter
TACLOBAN CITY- A member of the rebel group, New People’s Army, was killed in one of the encounters that occurred in Samar Island last Tuesday afternoon.
Captain Amado Gutierrez, spokesperson of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, said that the separate encounters between government troops and the rebels took place in remote villages of Matuguinao, Samar and Las Navas in Northern Samar.
Both towns are still considered by the government troops where presence of the NPA remains to be felt.
Gutierrez said that the encounter at the vicinity of Barangay Poponton, Las Navas last Tuesday at around 4 p.m. has resulted to the death of one rebel and the recovery of two M16 rifles.
Members of the 63rd Infantry Battalion, which is based Brgy. Upong, Catubig, also in Northern Samar and under the command of Lt.Col.Arvin Lagamon, where in the area as part of their peace and security operations when they chanced upon the undetermined numbers of NPA members which resulted to a fire fight.
On that same day, another skirmish between the two warring sides took place in Matuguinao, Samar with no casualty or injury reported to either side, Gutierrez said.
The fire fight in Barangay Ligaya of said town took place at around 3p.m. and lasted for 15 minutes with the rebels going to different directions on their way to escape, the spokesperson of the 8th ID said.
Members of the 43rd Infantry Battalion, based in Brgy.Cagsumjie, Sta. Margarita and headed by Lt.Col. Glenn Jun Calambuhay, also in Samar, were conducting their security patrol when they saw the rebels that immediately resulted to the fire fight, Gutierrez said.
Meantime, Major General Gerardo Layug, commanding general officer of the 8th ID, said that they would intensify their campaign on internal security of the region, particularly the Samar Island, against the rebels.
“This is the constitutional mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines so we cannot afford to waste time. Our mission and goal is to make the island of Samar a manageable conflict and development-ready just like Biliran, Bohol, Leyte and Southern Leyte. We are determined to do this to serve the people of Samar so we can attain a just and lasting peace,” Layug, in an emailed statement, said.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/06/rebel-killed-in-samar-encounter/
TACLOBAN CITY- A member of the rebel group, New People’s Army, was killed in one of the encounters that occurred in Samar Island last Tuesday afternoon.
Captain Amado Gutierrez, spokesperson of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, said that the separate encounters between government troops and the rebels took place in remote villages of Matuguinao, Samar and Las Navas in Northern Samar.
Both towns are still considered by the government troops where presence of the NPA remains to be felt.
Gutierrez said that the encounter at the vicinity of Barangay Poponton, Las Navas last Tuesday at around 4 p.m. has resulted to the death of one rebel and the recovery of two M16 rifles.
Members of the 63rd Infantry Battalion, which is based Brgy. Upong, Catubig, also in Northern Samar and under the command of Lt.Col.Arvin Lagamon, where in the area as part of their peace and security operations when they chanced upon the undetermined numbers of NPA members which resulted to a fire fight.
On that same day, another skirmish between the two warring sides took place in Matuguinao, Samar with no casualty or injury reported to either side, Gutierrez said.
The fire fight in Barangay Ligaya of said town took place at around 3p.m. and lasted for 15 minutes with the rebels going to different directions on their way to escape, the spokesperson of the 8th ID said.
Members of the 43rd Infantry Battalion, based in Brgy.Cagsumjie, Sta. Margarita and headed by Lt.Col. Glenn Jun Calambuhay, also in Samar, were conducting their security patrol when they saw the rebels that immediately resulted to the fire fight, Gutierrez said.
Meantime, Major General Gerardo Layug, commanding general officer of the 8th ID, said that they would intensify their campaign on internal security of the region, particularly the Samar Island, against the rebels.
“This is the constitutional mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines so we cannot afford to waste time. Our mission and goal is to make the island of Samar a manageable conflict and development-ready just like Biliran, Bohol, Leyte and Southern Leyte. We are determined to do this to serve the people of Samar so we can attain a just and lasting peace,” Layug, in an emailed statement, said.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/06/rebel-killed-in-samar-encounter/
Navy sends gunboat after Vietnamese vessel spotted off Tubbataha
From InterAksyon (Jun 8): Navy sends gunboat after Vietnamese vessel spotted off Tubbataha
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Philippines -- Naval Forces West in Palawan is deploying a patrol gunboat to Tubbataha Reef National Park following reports a Vietnamese fishing vessel was spotted off the protected site’s North Atoll Friday night.
NFW commander Commodore Rustom Peña said the deployment of the gunboat was in response to a call from Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) chief Angelique Songco early Saturday morning to report the incident.
According to the report, around 9 p.m. Friday, the Tubbataha Park Ranger Station radar spotted an unidentified vessel flying a Philippine flag approximately 3.4 nautical miles east of North Atoll.
On seeing the vessel, which was towing bright lights behind it, a mere half nautical mile from the reef, park rangers decided to approach.
The vessel was described as 60 gross tons and of Vietnamese origin.
When its crew saw the park rangers approaching, the vessel immediately sailed away towards the northeast, refusing to stop despite warning shots until it reached the marine park’s boundary.
Earlier this year, an American minesweeper ran aground on the reef and was removed only after a month. Soon after, a Chinese fishing vessel was apprehended within the marine park.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63601/navy-sends-gunboat-after-vietnamese-vessel-spotted-off-tubbataha
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Philippines -- Naval Forces West in Palawan is deploying a patrol gunboat to Tubbataha Reef National Park following reports a Vietnamese fishing vessel was spotted off the protected site’s North Atoll Friday night.
NFW commander Commodore Rustom Peña said the deployment of the gunboat was in response to a call from Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) chief Angelique Songco early Saturday morning to report the incident.
According to the report, around 9 p.m. Friday, the Tubbataha Park Ranger Station radar spotted an unidentified vessel flying a Philippine flag approximately 3.4 nautical miles east of North Atoll.
On seeing the vessel, which was towing bright lights behind it, a mere half nautical mile from the reef, park rangers decided to approach.
The vessel was described as 60 gross tons and of Vietnamese origin.
When its crew saw the park rangers approaching, the vessel immediately sailed away towards the northeast, refusing to stop despite warning shots until it reached the marine park’s boundary.
Earlier this year, an American minesweeper ran aground on the reef and was removed only after a month. Soon after, a Chinese fishing vessel was apprehended within the marine park.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63601/navy-sends-gunboat-after-vietnamese-vessel-spotted-off-tubbataha
Killing of 2 MNLF men triggers renewed fighting between rival Moro groups in North Cotabato
From InterAksyon (Jun 8): Killing of 2 MNLF men triggers renewed fighting between rival Moro groups in North Cotabato
MATALAM, North Cotabato -- Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front were killed when fighters of the rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front attacked a farming village in North Cotabato on Friday, the military said.
Captain Antonio Bulao, local Army spokesman, accused the MILF of violating a local truce when it attacked the village of Marbel in Matalam town.
He said the slain MNLF members were unarmed.
Bulao identified the victims as Toto Manial and Eddie Buisan, who both died on the spot from gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Quoting reports from village officials and Army troops stationed in Barangay Marbel, Bulao said the victims were going to their farms when the MILF fighters, led by Commanders Ali Mansur and Salonga of the 108th Base Command, shot them.
”It was a clear violation of the localized truce by the MILF,” Bulao said.
The MNLF retaliated, with fighting stopping only when the Army fired warning salvos from mortars and howitzers.
Bulao said the rival rebel groups had earlier declared a truce brokered by the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team and local government units.
The agreement calls for the repositioning of the MILF from Barangay Marbel, where the two groups clashed before the May 13 elections.
”They did not reposition their troops, instead they continued harassing civilians identified with the MNLF,” Bulao said.
The conflict started on May 5 when the MILF was to hold an advocacy forum on the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro in Barangay Marbel, a known bailiwick of the MNLF that was declared a peace zone after the MNLF forged an agreement with the government in 1996.
Datu Dima Ambel, MNLF leader in the area, allowed the MILF to hold the forum but requested them not to wear military uniforms or carry weapons.
However, the MILF came in full battle gear.
This triggered skirmishes that left at least three persons killed and three others wounded.
Thousands of civilians have been displaced by the skirmishes between the two warring groups.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63603/killing-of-2-mnlf-men-triggers-renewed-fighting-between-rival-moro-groups-in-north-cotabato
MATALAM, North Cotabato -- Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front were killed when fighters of the rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front attacked a farming village in North Cotabato on Friday, the military said.
Captain Antonio Bulao, local Army spokesman, accused the MILF of violating a local truce when it attacked the village of Marbel in Matalam town.
He said the slain MNLF members were unarmed.
Bulao identified the victims as Toto Manial and Eddie Buisan, who both died on the spot from gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Quoting reports from village officials and Army troops stationed in Barangay Marbel, Bulao said the victims were going to their farms when the MILF fighters, led by Commanders Ali Mansur and Salonga of the 108th Base Command, shot them.
”It was a clear violation of the localized truce by the MILF,” Bulao said.
The MNLF retaliated, with fighting stopping only when the Army fired warning salvos from mortars and howitzers.
Bulao said the rival rebel groups had earlier declared a truce brokered by the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team and local government units.
The agreement calls for the repositioning of the MILF from Barangay Marbel, where the two groups clashed before the May 13 elections.
”They did not reposition their troops, instead they continued harassing civilians identified with the MNLF,” Bulao said.
The conflict started on May 5 when the MILF was to hold an advocacy forum on the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro in Barangay Marbel, a known bailiwick of the MNLF that was declared a peace zone after the MNLF forged an agreement with the government in 1996.
Datu Dima Ambel, MNLF leader in the area, allowed the MILF to hold the forum but requested them not to wear military uniforms or carry weapons.
However, the MILF came in full battle gear.
This triggered skirmishes that left at least three persons killed and three others wounded.
Thousands of civilians have been displaced by the skirmishes between the two warring groups.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63603/killing-of-2-mnlf-men-triggers-renewed-fighting-between-rival-moro-groups-in-north-cotabato
INFOGRAPHIC | 6 clues Serendra blast was caused by a gas leak
Posted to InterAksyon (Jun 7): INFOGRAPHIC | 6 clues Serendra blast was caused by a gas leak
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63560/infographic--6-clues-serendra-blast-was-caused-by-a-gas-leak
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/63560/infographic--6-clues-serendra-blast-was-caused-by-a-gas-leak
Authorities tag Army sarge as leader of gun-for-hire group
From the Daily Tribune (Jun 7): Authorities tag Army sarge as leader of gun-for-hire group
An Army sergeant is now under custody after being tagged by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) as the leader of a gun-for-hire group operating in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Army spokesman Col. Randolph Cabangbang said T/Sgt. Robert Yadao, 42, was placed in the custody of the Army Provost Marshall (APM) after he was tagged by the NBI as leader of a gun-for-hire group operating in the National Capital Region and other areas in Luzon.
Cabangbang said Col. Benedicto Jose, the APM, initially conducted an investigation on Yadao.
The NBI on Wednesday raided the house of Yadao in Payatas, Quezon City where operatives reportedly recovered 100 caliber .45 pistols. The Army sergeant, however, was nowhere in the place during the raid.
Follow-up operations at a safehouse on Commonwealth Avenue led to the arrest of three of Yadao’s alleged cohorts.
According to the NBI, authorities managed to track down the group with the help of one of their alleged targets, identified as Butch Cosme, whose photograph was reportedly recovered from the group’s safehouse.
“Yadao denies owning 100 caliber .45 pistols, he denies being a member of a gun-for-hire group and evading arrest. In fact, he is on-leave up to June 8 but decided to report to his superiors early when he was informed that his house was raided,” Cabangbang said.
The Army spokesman said Yadao will subsequently be turned over to the Army Custodial Management to ensure his availability for any investigation by other agencies.
“The APM will turn over Yadao to the Custodial Management Unit to ensure that he will be available for investigation by concerned agencies,” Cabangbang said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/metro-section/item/15064-authorities-tag-army-sarge-as-leader-of-gun-for-hire-group
An Army sergeant is now under custody after being tagged by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) as the leader of a gun-for-hire group operating in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Army spokesman Col. Randolph Cabangbang said T/Sgt. Robert Yadao, 42, was placed in the custody of the Army Provost Marshall (APM) after he was tagged by the NBI as leader of a gun-for-hire group operating in the National Capital Region and other areas in Luzon.
Cabangbang said Col. Benedicto Jose, the APM, initially conducted an investigation on Yadao.
The NBI on Wednesday raided the house of Yadao in Payatas, Quezon City where operatives reportedly recovered 100 caliber .45 pistols. The Army sergeant, however, was nowhere in the place during the raid.
Follow-up operations at a safehouse on Commonwealth Avenue led to the arrest of three of Yadao’s alleged cohorts.
According to the NBI, authorities managed to track down the group with the help of one of their alleged targets, identified as Butch Cosme, whose photograph was reportedly recovered from the group’s safehouse.
“Yadao denies owning 100 caliber .45 pistols, he denies being a member of a gun-for-hire group and evading arrest. In fact, he is on-leave up to June 8 but decided to report to his superiors early when he was informed that his house was raided,” Cabangbang said.
The Army spokesman said Yadao will subsequently be turned over to the Army Custodial Management to ensure his availability for any investigation by other agencies.
“The APM will turn over Yadao to the Custodial Management Unit to ensure that he will be available for investigation by concerned agencies,” Cabangbang said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/metro-section/item/15064-authorities-tag-army-sarge-as-leader-of-gun-for-hire-group
PCG personnel may face criminal raps, says NBI
From the Daily Tribune (Jun 8): PCG personnel may face criminal raps, says NBI
ON BALINTANG SHOOTING INCIDENT
Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) involved in the bloody shooting incident in Balintang Channel last May 9 may face criminal charges.
According to National Bureau of Investigation Deputy Director Virgilio Mendez, this was one of the matters they are reviewing that will be included in their findings.
However, Mendez clarified they still need additional evidence for their final report and recommendation.
Some of the evidence still needed by the NBI in the investigation, Mendez said, are the medico-legal report and ballistic report from Taiwan which are written in Mandarin and needs to be translated and authenticated.
Aside from this, Mendez said, the NBI wants the slug taken from the Taiwanese fishing boat involved in the incident to be presented to them.
Mendez added they also want to determine whether the Taiwanese investigators have the record to prove who was in possession of the firearm who shot the slain fisherman.
However, Mendez could not directly say whether they can submit the report to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima next week because the drafting of the report depends on the availability of the documents they are asking.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/15116-pcg-personnel-may-face-criminal-raps-says-nbi
ON BALINTANG SHOOTING INCIDENT
Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) involved in the bloody shooting incident in Balintang Channel last May 9 may face criminal charges.
According to National Bureau of Investigation Deputy Director Virgilio Mendez, this was one of the matters they are reviewing that will be included in their findings.
However, Mendez clarified they still need additional evidence for their final report and recommendation.
Some of the evidence still needed by the NBI in the investigation, Mendez said, are the medico-legal report and ballistic report from Taiwan which are written in Mandarin and needs to be translated and authenticated.
Aside from this, Mendez said, the NBI wants the slug taken from the Taiwanese fishing boat involved in the incident to be presented to them.
Mendez added they also want to determine whether the Taiwanese investigators have the record to prove who was in possession of the firearm who shot the slain fisherman.
However, Mendez could not directly say whether they can submit the report to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima next week because the drafting of the report depends on the availability of the documents they are asking.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/15116-pcg-personnel-may-face-criminal-raps-says-nbi
AFP chief: Pinoy troops’ pullout from Golan Heights up to gov’t
From the Daily Tribune (Jun 8): AFP chief: Pinoy troops’ pullout from Golan Heights up to gov’t
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday said that pulling out of its peacekeepers from the strife-torn Golan Heights remained a “political decision” even after one Filipino soldier was reported wounded amid intense fighting between Syrian government forces and rebels.
However, the military leadership maintained that all Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights in Syria will remain in the area until a decision is reached by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
AFP chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista confirmed that one Filipino peacekeeper was “slightly wounded” in Golan Heights where there were reported fightings between Syrian armed forces and insurgents.
Bautista said there is no order yet to pull out from the troubled region.
“That is a political decision... it’s a foreign relations issue and we submit to whatever the decision is going to be. We just implement,” Bautista said.
He stressed that the AFP is ready to face the risks that come with its mandate, whether locally or outside the country.
As member of the United Nations, the Philippines is committed to send peacekeepers in UN-sanctioned peace mission in various parts of the world, including Golan Heights.
“We are committed to perform our mandate and we lay our lives on the line whether it be here or somewhere else,” Bautista stressed.
The AFP chief said that risk in Golan Heights is very manageable, adding that the Philippines had faced even tougher conditions when it deployed around 8,000 Filipino soldiers during the Korean War.
“There was combat then and yet we deployed our people,” Bautista said.
The soldier, who sustained shrapnel wounds in the right ankle, is a member of the 6th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights.
Maj. Ramon Zagala, AFP public affairs office chief, said that the injured soldier is now in stable condition.
He added that the incident took place as Syrian government and rebel forces clashed some three to four kilometers away from Camp Ziouni.
The latter base is the logistic base of the UN Disengagement Observer Force.
Zagala said that the AFP is constantly monitoring the situation in the area even as he stressed that the safety and well-being of all Filipino peacekeepers is the military’s priority.
About DFA’s recommendation last month to President Aquino that the country should withdraw its peacekeepers because of security concerns, the Malacañang said no decision had yet been made.
“The recommendation re (regarding) the deployment of forces is being studied as of the present time,” presidential spokesman Abigail Valte said.
According to DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez, the department’s position remained that the Filipino troops should be pulled out.
There are 341 Filipino peacekeepers now deployed in Golan Heights, 25 of whom were abducted and later on released during separate incidents in March and May.
The abductions prompted the DFA to recommend the pull out of Filipino troops from Golan Heights.
On Thursday, Austria pulled out 377 peacekeepers from Golan Heights amid tense fighting in the area.
Japan and Croatia earlier also pulled out their peacekeepers from Golan Heights.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/15120-afp-chief-pinoy-troops-pullout-from-golan-heights-up-to-gov-t
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday said that pulling out of its peacekeepers from the strife-torn Golan Heights remained a “political decision” even after one Filipino soldier was reported wounded amid intense fighting between Syrian government forces and rebels.
However, the military leadership maintained that all Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights in Syria will remain in the area until a decision is reached by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
AFP chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista confirmed that one Filipino peacekeeper was “slightly wounded” in Golan Heights where there were reported fightings between Syrian armed forces and insurgents.
Bautista said there is no order yet to pull out from the troubled region.
“That is a political decision... it’s a foreign relations issue and we submit to whatever the decision is going to be. We just implement,” Bautista said.
He stressed that the AFP is ready to face the risks that come with its mandate, whether locally or outside the country.
As member of the United Nations, the Philippines is committed to send peacekeepers in UN-sanctioned peace mission in various parts of the world, including Golan Heights.
“We are committed to perform our mandate and we lay our lives on the line whether it be here or somewhere else,” Bautista stressed.
The AFP chief said that risk in Golan Heights is very manageable, adding that the Philippines had faced even tougher conditions when it deployed around 8,000 Filipino soldiers during the Korean War.
“There was combat then and yet we deployed our people,” Bautista said.
The soldier, who sustained shrapnel wounds in the right ankle, is a member of the 6th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights.
Maj. Ramon Zagala, AFP public affairs office chief, said that the injured soldier is now in stable condition.
He added that the incident took place as Syrian government and rebel forces clashed some three to four kilometers away from Camp Ziouni.
The latter base is the logistic base of the UN Disengagement Observer Force.
Zagala said that the AFP is constantly monitoring the situation in the area even as he stressed that the safety and well-being of all Filipino peacekeepers is the military’s priority.
About DFA’s recommendation last month to President Aquino that the country should withdraw its peacekeepers because of security concerns, the Malacañang said no decision had yet been made.
“The recommendation re (regarding) the deployment of forces is being studied as of the present time,” presidential spokesman Abigail Valte said.
According to DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez, the department’s position remained that the Filipino troops should be pulled out.
There are 341 Filipino peacekeepers now deployed in Golan Heights, 25 of whom were abducted and later on released during separate incidents in March and May.
The abductions prompted the DFA to recommend the pull out of Filipino troops from Golan Heights.
On Thursday, Austria pulled out 377 peacekeepers from Golan Heights amid tense fighting in the area.
Japan and Croatia earlier also pulled out their peacekeepers from Golan Heights.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/15120-afp-chief-pinoy-troops-pullout-from-golan-heights-up-to-gov-t
2 injured in a skirmish between two warring groups in N. Cotabato
From Business World (Jun 7): 2 injured in a skirmish between two warring groups in N. Cotabato
KORONADAL -- Armed members of warring clans in the hinterlands of Pikit, North Cotabato clashed on Thursday displacing local residents and injuring two persons, the local police said.
Herberto M. Paculanang, deputy chief of police of nearby Aleosan town, said in a radio interview on Friday that the fight was triggered by a longstanding land dispute between a clan with members of civilian volunteers organizations and the clan of Commanders Kuyo and Nasser of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) 105th base command.
The local police office and the local government unit are still confirming reported number of families affected by the conflict. Anwar Esamel, a third year high school student was hit by a bullet while tending to his carabao near the conflict area, the police said. Also wounded was Rafani Sahban, said to be a member of one of the two warring factions.
Mr. Paculanang confirmed on Friday that members of 7th Infantry Battalion (IB) and 40th IB were deployed to guard the conflict area and help Pikit town officials to resolve the conflict between the two groups.
The conflict between and among groups are considered by the government and the MILF as one of the challenges in attaining peace in this part of Mindanao. The MILF and the government are currently negotiating for a lasting peace on the island.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=2-injured-in-a-skirmish-between-two-warring-groups-in-N.-Cotabato&id=71488
KORONADAL -- Armed members of warring clans in the hinterlands of Pikit, North Cotabato clashed on Thursday displacing local residents and injuring two persons, the local police said.
Herberto M. Paculanang, deputy chief of police of nearby Aleosan town, said in a radio interview on Friday that the fight was triggered by a longstanding land dispute between a clan with members of civilian volunteers organizations and the clan of Commanders Kuyo and Nasser of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) 105th base command.
The local police office and the local government unit are still confirming reported number of families affected by the conflict. Anwar Esamel, a third year high school student was hit by a bullet while tending to his carabao near the conflict area, the police said. Also wounded was Rafani Sahban, said to be a member of one of the two warring factions.
Mr. Paculanang confirmed on Friday that members of 7th Infantry Battalion (IB) and 40th IB were deployed to guard the conflict area and help Pikit town officials to resolve the conflict between the two groups.
The conflict between and among groups are considered by the government and the MILF as one of the challenges in attaining peace in this part of Mindanao. The MILF and the government are currently negotiating for a lasting peace on the island.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=2-injured-in-a-skirmish-between-two-warring-groups-in-N.-Cotabato&id=71488
Serendra blast caused by LPG leak
From Business World (Jun 7): Serendra blast caused by LPG leak
AUTHORITIES officially declared on Friday that the explosion in at the Two Serendra condomium in Taguig City a week ago was caused by a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) leak, but its source is still unknown.
“In view of all the foregoing, the blast was most consistent with a gas explosion, most likely LPG (liquefied gas petroleum),” said Interior department Secretary Manuel “Mar” A. Roxas, III, in a press conference. “For Two Serendra, the gas that is most readily available and does not require a specialized container is the LPG.”
“The next part of the investigation should pinpoint where the leak came from [and] what triggered the explosion,” said Carlos Primo C. David, part of the team from the Department of Science and Technology and the University of the Philippines-Diliman’s National Institute of Geological Sciences who joined the probe.
Mr. David told reporters that the incident fulfilled the requirements of a gas explosion, such as minimal post-blast residue. He explained that if a explosive caused the blast, there would be parts of a bomb left. This follows the initial report that there the incident was not bomb-related as trained dogs did not find traces of explosives.
The blast was also “almost instantaneous” and covered a large area, similar to gas explosions in the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, and California and New York in the US from September 2010 to June this year.
There was also no blast crater found at the site, while fire caused by the explosion disappeared quickly. Nearly no soot was left in the site.
The possibility that diesel or kerosene caused the blast was also set aside as authorities did not find any trace of a container for the substances.
Investigators learned that the unit was renovated last year to convert the property from a one-bedroom to a two-bedroom unit. Mr. Roxas said that they are still checking to see if there was other work done in the unit.
Meanwhile, the cabinet secretary suggested that gas systems in buildings in the area be checked to avoid a similar mishap.
“We recommend all residents and establishments of Serendra to immediately have your gas system checked not only in your units but the whole building as well.”
In a related development, authorities have taken the spotlight off Angelito San Juan, who had leased the unit where the explosion occurred. Mr. Juan was earlier declared a “person of interest” by the police.
“What I can say is according to the investigations, testimonies, we consider his behavior normal. [We are] not anymore that interested in him,” Mr. Roxas told the media.
Mr. San Juan, 63, is suffering from second degree burns covering 72% of his skin. He is now conscious but still remains in the intensive care unit of St. Luke’s Hospital in the same city.
Police learned that Mr. Juan is based in the US and has no known criminal history.
The owner of the unit he leased, Marianne Cayton-Castillo, also based in the US, returned to the Philippines on Friday morning.
Mr. San Juan rented the unit through Ms. Castillo’s aunt, Herminia Ochoa, his “batchmate” and the caretaker of the property.
Three people were immediately killed in the explosion when a concrete slab from the condo unit slammed down on a delivery van.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Serendra-blast-caused-by-LPG-leak&id=71493
AUTHORITIES officially declared on Friday that the explosion in at the Two Serendra condomium in Taguig City a week ago was caused by a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) leak, but its source is still unknown.
“In view of all the foregoing, the blast was most consistent with a gas explosion, most likely LPG (liquefied gas petroleum),” said Interior department Secretary Manuel “Mar” A. Roxas, III, in a press conference. “For Two Serendra, the gas that is most readily available and does not require a specialized container is the LPG.”
“The next part of the investigation should pinpoint where the leak came from [and] what triggered the explosion,” said Carlos Primo C. David, part of the team from the Department of Science and Technology and the University of the Philippines-Diliman’s National Institute of Geological Sciences who joined the probe.
Mr. David told reporters that the incident fulfilled the requirements of a gas explosion, such as minimal post-blast residue. He explained that if a explosive caused the blast, there would be parts of a bomb left. This follows the initial report that there the incident was not bomb-related as trained dogs did not find traces of explosives.
The blast was also “almost instantaneous” and covered a large area, similar to gas explosions in the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, and California and New York in the US from September 2010 to June this year.
There was also no blast crater found at the site, while fire caused by the explosion disappeared quickly. Nearly no soot was left in the site.
The possibility that diesel or kerosene caused the blast was also set aside as authorities did not find any trace of a container for the substances.
Investigators learned that the unit was renovated last year to convert the property from a one-bedroom to a two-bedroom unit. Mr. Roxas said that they are still checking to see if there was other work done in the unit.
Meanwhile, the cabinet secretary suggested that gas systems in buildings in the area be checked to avoid a similar mishap.
“We recommend all residents and establishments of Serendra to immediately have your gas system checked not only in your units but the whole building as well.”
In a related development, authorities have taken the spotlight off Angelito San Juan, who had leased the unit where the explosion occurred. Mr. Juan was earlier declared a “person of interest” by the police.
“What I can say is according to the investigations, testimonies, we consider his behavior normal. [We are] not anymore that interested in him,” Mr. Roxas told the media.
Mr. San Juan, 63, is suffering from second degree burns covering 72% of his skin. He is now conscious but still remains in the intensive care unit of St. Luke’s Hospital in the same city.
Police learned that Mr. Juan is based in the US and has no known criminal history.
The owner of the unit he leased, Marianne Cayton-Castillo, also based in the US, returned to the Philippines on Friday morning.
Mr. San Juan rented the unit through Ms. Castillo’s aunt, Herminia Ochoa, his “batchmate” and the caretaker of the property.
Three people were immediately killed in the explosion when a concrete slab from the condo unit slammed down on a delivery van.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Serendra-blast-caused-by-LPG-leak&id=71493