Obama set to visit PH in October Asian trip

From the Manila Standard Today (Aug 31): Obama set to visit PH in October Asian trip

United States President Barack Obama will visit the Southeast Asian region soon, possibly including the Philippines, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told reporters on Friday.

Hagel made the announcement after his meeting with President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang.

“I spoke with the President and he is very much looking forward to his trip to Southeast Asia, and I know that the White House is preparing for that and his meetings,” Hagel said.

“There is a lot to discuss…As much as I know, President Obama is looking forward to his upcoming visit.”

Hagel said he would leave it to the White House to announce the details of the visit.
So far, Obama’s confirmed trips to the region in October are as follows: to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in Bali, to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations meetings in Brunei, and to the 4th Global Entrepreneurship Summit.

Aquino will also be attending the Apec and Asean meetings.

Last year, after his re-election, Obama  visited Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Hagel said he was happy to return to the Philippines. He has been visiting the Philippines since the late 1980s, when he was still a senator.

“I first learned about the Philippines when my father, who was here during World War II, spent some time in Clark Air Field. He was a radio operator, a tail gunner on a B-25, and had many, many pictures of his experience here,” Hagel said. “He loved the Filipino people; he loved this country.”
  http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/08/31/obama-set-to-visit-ph-in-october-asian-trip/

PHL forces conduct air strike vs. NPA in Sagada

From GMA News (Aug 30): PHL forces conduct air strike vs. NPA in Sagada

Philippine security forces on Friday launched air strikes against communist New People's Army rebels in Mountain Province, a day after a clash occurred in the area.

Police personnel, with air support from the Philippine Air Force, were going after a band of NPA rebels that engaged security forces in an encounter Thursday, resulting in the wounding of two policemen, police officials said.

"Ongoing pa po yung aming operation sa area, at meron pong dumating na air support from the Philippine Air Force, yung dalawang MG-520," said Superintendent Davy Vicente Limmong, spokesman of the Cordillera Regional Police.

"Nagkaroon po ng mga air strike sa area, so after that papasukin po ng ating mga personnel yung suspected location ng mga enemy," he added.

Cordillera police head Chief Superintendent Benjamin Magalong was quoted in a dzBB report as saying that two police personnel had been hurt by sniper fire on Thursday.

 Limmong said the rebels belong to the NPA's Leonardo Pacsi Command.

Peace zone

For their part, Sagada native Dom-an Macagne said in a Facebook post that the airstrike should not have happened because Sagada is a "peace zone."

"Two military helicopters hovering over Northern Sagada dropping bombs and spraying bullets in the watershed close to the villages. At 8.00 this morning, for 30 minutes, they did the same. Villagers watch(ed) helplessly in terror," Macagne said in the post.

"Sagada is a peace zone, violated many times. Calling all peace makers and peace builders... peace... peace... peace... as I type I hear the explosions..." she added.

The Sagada Peace Zone, one of seven peace zones in the country and recognized by government in 1989, supposedly bans military operations in the municipality, according to a 2007 book "Zones of Peace."

A separate report on state-run Philippines News Agency said a special unit of the Cordillera police engaged NPA rebels in gun battle in Barangay Agid, Sagada.

The PNA report said there were some 30 NPAs at the time and were believed to be among those who ambushed unarmed police trainees in Tadian town last June.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/324281/news/regions/phl-forces-conduct-air-strike-vs-npa-in-sagada

NPA leader surrenders

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 30): NPA leader surrenders

An alleged vice squad leader of the Rachel May Palang Command of the New People’s Army in Negros Oriental, Jerome Rio Bilimac, voluntarily surrendered yesterday to Gov. Roel Degamo at the provincial Capitol building in Dumaguete City.

Bilimac, 24, of Sitio Kaputianan, Barangay San Roque in San Jose town, Negros Oriental, turned himself in first to his uncle, Willy Retes, a barangay tanod of San Roque, and to Barangay Captain Alvin Omaguing on August 22.

The surrender of Bilimac, alias Ka Raymund, Ka Rey and Ka Maisa, was witnessed by 302ndBrigade deputy commander, Col. Christopher Estella, Army officers, and Department of Social Welfare and Development officer Alice Lagarde.

Degamo assured the rebel returnee of his safety under the custody of the 79thInfantry Battalion, while documentary requirements are being processed for the financial and livelihood assistance that will be given to him.

Bilimac said he was a machine gunner of the Rachel Mae Palang Command for four years and had participated in several armed encounters with the Army, like the ones in Sugpo, Kulabyawan and in Bungabong, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental.

He said he decided to surrender because he wants to live peacefully and to spend more time with his family. He said he was taken advantage of by the group that recruited and indoctrinated him into the underground movement.

Degamo said Bilimac’s surrender is timely, with the commemoration of the National Peace Month in September.

Estella said they are thankful for the support of Degamo, and stressed the need to finally win the peace in the province, and other parts of the country. “We need the help of the community in believing that peace can be achieved by bringing government closer to the people, through Oplan Bayanihan, medical missions and peace fora, among others,” he added.

He said the surrender of Bilimac is a good indication that the government is gaining ground in winning the peace in Negros Oriental.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/August/30/negor3.htm

MILF: SWC conducts Islamic Symposium in North Cotabato town

From the MILF Website (Aug 30): SWC conducts Islamic Symposium in North Cotabato town

The Social Welfare Committee (SWC) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Ligawasan Province conducted an Islamic Symposium on August 25, 2013 at Taporok, Aleosan, North Cotabato.
  

The gathering was attended by almost 1,500 women from different municipalities covered by SWC Ligawasan Provincial Committee.

The said activity was part of SWC program of strengthening women’s awareness on the issue of spiritual well-being of mankind. They invited personalities from the Committee on Information to provide updates on the current situation specifically with regards to the peace process between Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The chairperson of the committee reminded the participants that women needed to be prepared for the days ahead towards building the Bangsamoro Region.  Another aleema shared her views on the essentials of sustainable networks that would benefit the organization (MILF).

Prof. Mike Abdula, steering committee member of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) and also the chair of the training and education department of the Kalilintad Development Foundation, Inc. gave inputs and spoke on the current negotiation between GPH and MILF. After delving on the FAB’s four annexes, an open forum was moderated by Arman Armada, the head of secretariat of the Committee on Information, Central Committee. Nasrullah Muhammad, the HRDC point man to the MILF assisted Armada.

During the open forum, most of the questions raised addressed to the speakers concern provisions of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB), the signed agreement between GPH-MILF in Malacanang Palace in Manila last October 15, 2012, a historic event witnessed by prominent national and international figures including President Benigno C. Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Najib Razak .

Another woman participant expressed her apprehension on the snail-pace process in crafting the Bangsamoro Basic Law by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) due to the unfinished annexes on power-sharing and normalization that is yet to be completed by the two peace panels. The BTC cannot work on the wholeness of the basic law unless the two remaining annexes are completed and signed by the panels. The Framework agreement and the four annexes will constitute the comprehensive compact that will be signed by the two peace panels.

Nasrullah Muhammad reminded the participants to do their part in the best way they can to realize the establishment of the must-awaited Bangsamoro new political entity by 2016.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/526-swc-conducts-islamic-symposium-in-north-cotabato-town

CPP/NPA: Opportunist leader Ruben Labawan responsible for CVO ambush

Posted to the CPP Website (Aug 29): Opportunist leader Ruben Labawan responsible for CVO ambush

Tano Paragas
Spokesperson
Southern Mindanao Sub-regional Command (Davao City-Bukidnon Sub-regional Command)

So-called civilian volunteers who were hit by the New People’s Army (NPA)’s command detonated explosive last Monday in Barangay Tapak, Paquibato were paramilitary baganis recruited by the notorious Ruben Labawan and who were engaged in banditry and various atrocities when they were ambushed.

Labawan has again showed his ugly fangs as a loyal dog to the AFP 10th Infantry Division by sowing terror among Lumads and peasants. Labawan ordered his throng of paramilitary CVOs to commit banditry by confiscating a cattle and a pig from the masses after a CAFGU went AWOL and stole a garand rifle in a detachment in Kalagangan, San Fernando town, Bukidnon.

The CAFGU abandoned the San Fernando detachment because he was disillusioned with the delayed wages, and he felt discriminated among his colleagues. CAFGUs like him are bound to suffer under the present system where only the generals enjoy the largesse from a corrupt US-Aquino regime while foot soldiers and force multipliers such as CAFGUs and CVOs make do with paltry compensation. As they suffer, they become enlightened with the fact that they cannot continue to serve a government and an armed forces that steal from the people’s sweat and blood.

And as the number of CAFGUs abandoning their posts rise, Labawan and running dogs in the AFP are likely to heap their rage over the poor peasants and commit atrocious criminal actions against the people. The military employs the classic tactic of pitting Lumads against Lumads to control ancestral territories and make it easier for capitalist mining companies to enter and exploit ancestral resources.

Labawan is already exposed in the past as among the notorious Lumad opportunists who are eager to sell ancestral lands to the highest bidders, destroyers of the environment and landgrabbers. He and his minions rightly deserve the people’s wrath and the blows inflicted by the New People’s Army.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130829_opportunist-leader-ruben-labawan-responsible-for-cvo-ambush

CPP: CPP denounces Hagel visit, Aquino subservience to US government

From the CPP Website (Aug 30): CPP denounces Hagel visit, Aquino subservience to US government

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today denounced the arrival in the Philippines of US Pentagon Chief Chuck Hagel “which has no other aim but to further boost the US campaign to project its power and strengthen its military foothold in the Asia-Pacific region.”

The CPP issued this statement as Hagel met with Aquino in Malacañang to further discuss the so-called framework agreement presently being forged in negotiations held in Washington. The CPP averred that the framework agreement which is set to be completed in the next few weeks will virtually bring back US basing rights, allow the US to use the Philippines as a vast military outpost, raise the number of US troops in the Philippines and increase the frequency of US troop rotation.

“The US wants to forge an agreement similar to what it has with Singapore where the US Navy is allowed to deploy and operate resupply vessels. The US Navy is also allowed to use a naval base, a ship repair facility and an airfield. The US maintains permanent presence of US fighter jet squadrons of which are rotated a month at a time.
It also uses Singapore as a logistics coordinating center for its Pacific command.

“The Filipino people must denounce and oppose the strategic framework agreement because it violates Philippine national sovereignty,” said the CPP. “They must reject claims of the US government that such arrangements do not touch on matters of sovereignty.”

“Philippine sovereignty is trampled when the US military is allowed to deploy and operate its own equipment, to have unlimited access to air and seaport facilities, operate surveillance equipment, launch and deploy military drones for intelligence and combat, dock its nuclear-capable warships and to land and launch its fighter jets and set up military command posts,” pointed out the CPP.

The CPP further asserted that Benigno Aquino III’s worsening subservience to the US imperialist government makes the establishment of an independent foreign policy even more untenable. “In particular, a peaceful resolution to the South China conflict is being made more difficult because of Aquino’s acquiescence to US dictates and interference on the matter.”

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130830_cpp-denounces-hagel-visit-aquino-subservience-to-us-government

Gov't forces beat off rebel attack in Compostela Valley

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Gov't forces beat off rebel attack in Compostela Valley

Government forces deployed at the Magnaga Patrol Base, Barangay Magnaga, Panutukan town, Compostela Valley Province have successfully beaten off an attack conducted by 20 New People's Army (NPA) rebels Thursday night.

Capt. Raul Villegas, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the assault started around 8: 30 p.m.

He added the government forces consisted of a soldier and 14 militiamen.

Villegas stated that no one among the government side was wounded in the attack that lasted for three hours.

He added the rebels retreated with an undetermined number of casualties.

The 10th Infantry Division spokesperson also said that the rebels placed landmines at the foot of the Magnaga Bridge but removed these during their retreat.

Pursuit operations are still ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=560434

Victim of NPA summary execution recovered in Zambales

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Victim of NPA summary execution recovered in Zambales
 
Troopers from the 24th Infantry Battalion, a field unit of the 7th Infantry Division, have unearthed the remains of a New People's Army (NPA) summary execution victim in Sta. Cruz, Zambales last Aug. 17.

Belated reports from Capt. Mark Ruelos, 7th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the body was identified as Macmac Corpuz, 19, a resident of Barangay Lucapon South, Sta. Cruz.

Ruelos said the victim was executed by members of the Marxism-Leninism Proletariat Party/Rebulosyunaryong Hukbong Bayan last year and was found buried in Malpay Hill, Sitio Araw, Barangay Lucapon North in Sta. Cruz town.

The exhumation of the remains was a result of information from a concerned civilian in the area.

Initial result of the investigation conducted revealed that Macmac was executed by his former comrades after he was accused of rape and stealing a gun from his cadre.

“The accurate information given by concerned civilians on the area led us to the discovery of the skeletal remains of a victim of summary execution initiated by the rebel groups,” 24th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Gilmar Galicia said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=560502

PNoy names new PSG chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): PNoy names new PSG chief

President Benigno Aquino III has named Navy Capt. Raul Ubando as the new head of the Presidential Security Group (PSG).

Ubando replaced PSG chief Brig. Gen. Mateo Dizon whose retirement took effect Friday.

Ubando is a member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1985.

Aquino will lead the change of command ceremony later in the day at the PSG Grandstand in Malacanang.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=560512

3 soldiers hurt as IED blast rocks North Cotabato town

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): 3 soldiers hurt as IED blast rocks North Cotabato town
 
Three soldiers were hurt when an improvised explosive device planted near an Army detachment went off at 6 a.m. Friday, police said.

Supt. Renante Delos Reyes, Midsayap PNP chief, said the IED was fashioned from a 60 mm mortar with cellphone as trigger mechanism. The explosive went off in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

Colonel Dickson Hermoso, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, identified the wounded soldiers as Sgt. Rudolfo Ubangon, Sgt. Remond Sapun and Sgt. Errick Naranjo, all of the Delta Company of the 7th Field Artillery Battalion.

Sgt. Ubangon was in critical condition as he was close to the IED when it went off.

Delos Santos said Ubangon was about to take an early morning bath at the back of the Army detachment when the IED went off, the fifth explosion in Midsayap in August.

Three of the IEDs were set off by suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) at the outskirt barangays of Nes, Nabalawag ang Baliki while two were set off in the town center.

Following the August 6 IED blast that ripped through a pawnshop along Rizal Street, the local government had imposed curfew hours starting at 9 p.m. until 4 a.m.

No one has claimed responsibility in Friday’s improvised bomb attack but police are looking at the BIFF since it has the signature of the latest explosion.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=560467

Civil society group rates AFP’s implementation of IPSP 'above satisfactory'

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Civil society group rates AFP’s implementation of IPSP 'above satisfactory'

The Bantay-Bayanihan (BB) Visayas Network on Friday gave a rating of “above satisfactory performance” to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) implementation in the Visayas region during the first quarter of 2013.

A network of Bantay-Bayanihan Visayas Team reported that the operational procedures of the Philippine Army in the Visayas, which is composed of two Army Divisions, lagged behind in terms of policy implementation in ensuring consistency of its operations.

The monitoring and evaluation, in which the rating was made, covers the military that implements IPSP in the provinces of Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, the rest of towns and cities in Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental.

On a positive note, “joint efforts by the AFP and PNP is gaining grounds relative to fighting insurgency. While some local politicians still supporting the NPA and other private groups, the LGU support at higher level is visible,” said Rommel L. Rutor, co-convener of the BB Eastern Visayas.

“The fall-out is that, these policies accordingly are already present but are not clearly defined to the BB concerned,” the BB convener said suggesting that the security sector should enhance further engagement with the local BBs.

When asked on how they evaluate and assess these AFP’s IPSP implementations, he said: “Once we hold the data from our sources, we validate it from our own data base as well as compare it to the information provided by the military.”

“We actually do it two to three weeks prior to the scheduled evaluation or actual filling of the local matrix (by the AFP),” Rutor said.

“If there are no recorded adverse reports during the quarter, regardless of the truthfulness of the figures presented by the AFP as to the number of their combat operations, the BB would rate the same as YES; but if conflicts or issues (human rights violations, number of KIA, missing enemy’s, etc) are present, then it should reflect (on their score card),” he added.

Meanwhile, AFP Central Command chief Lt.Gen. Roy Deveraturda, in his reactions to the BB report, welcomed the positive results and likewise committed to respond on the lapses.

“We will furnish you any data you want to make the assessment and evaluation more comprehensive,” the CenCom chief said assuring to conduct more local engagement with BBs on the ground.

On its IPSP evaluation report, a copy of which obtained by the PNA, B/Gen. Rodelio V. Santos, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations said the AFP is now moving forward as regard to their IPSP implementation.

He said that through the AFP intensive campaign against the insurgents, the CPP-NPA-NDF trend of initiated violence had decreased 25 percent from 2010 with 501 incidents to only 230 incidents recorded as of August 2013.

According to the AFP, the IPSP Bayanihan also improved internal peace and security situation in a nationwide scope.

“Forty-six percent of the rebels affected provinces have undergone normalization. Under normalization, the LGU takes the lead role in ensuring local peace and security. By the end of 2013, we aim to have normalization to another 20 provinces,” B/Gen. Santos disclosed.

The BB is a civil-society led initiative that aims to create an oversight body over the armed forces, including defense and security policies (strategic, tactical and operational levels).

In the Visayas, the monitoring and evaluation of Bayanihan started in January 2013 through Catbalogan City-based Bantay Kalinaw Sinirangan Bisayas, BB Negros Oriental (Dumaguete City) and BB Negros Occidental based in Bacolod City.

All of these BBs had their network of non-government offices, people’s organization, academe, media, religious groups and other organizations in their midst as either members or source of information.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=560488

Siege of a well entrenched NPA camp in Sagada, Mountain Province is far from over – PROCOR

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Siege of a well entrenched NPA camp in Sagada, Mountain Province is far from over – PROCOR

The Police Regional Office Cordillera (PROCOR) is considering all options to lay siege of the well-entrenched mountain camp of the communist New People's Army (NPA) after it was determined that initial ground assault Thursday morning to noon had unclear results.

Police Senior Superintendent Dave Limmong, PROCOR public information officer, said the government troopers have yet to gain upperhand in the on-going sporadic skirmishes in that remote barangay of Agid, Sagada, Mountain Province some 100 kilometers north of this camp.

In the initial gunbattle Thursday, two policemen were injured.

As of early Friday, Limmong confirmed the two wounded members of an elite group of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are now out of danger.

”Each of our wounded personnel received P20,000 as initial assistance to buy their needs while hospitalized,” he said.

He clarified that the initial reports did not indicate any casualty on the part of the NPA “but we still have to verify in due time.”

Limmong said that the NPA camp strategically built within a remote secluded area in Sagada town was only discovered by the government troopers when they were fired upon by a group of heavily armed rebels numbering to 20 to 30.

Their escape routes in the follow-up operations, however, led to the discovery of the well-entrenched rebel camp.

Limmong assured the public of being updated of the government assault against the remnants of the rebels in the mountainous region.

He added the operations is part of the preparations of the PNP to assure a peaceful, honest and orderly barangay elections this October.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=560510

Visiting defense chief says US not seeking permanent bases in PHL

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Visiting defense chief says US not seeking permanent bases in PHL

Visiting United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said Friday his government is not seeking to put up military bases in the country.

"The United States does not seek permanent bases in the Philippines. That would represent a return to an outdated Cold War mentality. Instead we are using a new method of military cooperation befitting two great allies and friends and looking to increase our rotational presence here as we have done recently in Singapore and Australia," Hagel said at a press briefing in Malacañang.

Hagel said the US is seeking to increase its military presence in the Philippines and working hard on a new framework agreement that will strengthen cooperation between the two countries and the modernization agenda of the Aquino administration.

Hagel, who met with President Benigno Aquino III Friday morning, said they also discussed the West Philippine Sea dispute with China.

He said the US lauds the Philippine government's efforts to resolve the dispute peacefully.

"The US appreciates the Philippine efforts to resolve disputes through peaceful means... we encourage nations to peacefully resolve their disputes to internationally accepted mechanisms in accordance with international law including the law of the sea and without coercion or militarized attempts," Hagel said.

The Philippine government has elevated the territorial row to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560507

President Aquino welcomes US Defense Secretary Hagel in Malacanang

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): President Aquino welcomes US Defense Secretary Hagel in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel who emphasized his country's commitment to the "deep and unbreakable" alliance between the Philippines and the United States.

During a courtesy call at the Music Room of Malacanang Palace on Friday, Hagel expressed his gratitude to the Chief Executive for the warm welcome accorded him.

Hagel was sworn in as the 24th Secretary of Defense on February 27, 2013, becoming the first enlisted combat veteran to lead the Department of Defense.

Hagel's visit to the Philippines is seen as a continuing US effort to assure the Philippines that it will help maintain peace in the region amid territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

The President met Hagel in a bid to enhance vibrant relations between the Philippines and the US on various issues of mutual concerns, especially in defense and security matters.

The Philippines is presently negotiating with the United States to institutionalize the policy of increased rotational presence of American troops through a framework agreement.

The negotiations will enable the Philippines and US to conduct activities such as bilateral exercises, including the prepositioning of equipment for disaster response and development of Philippine facilities, among others.

Joining the President in welcoming Hagel were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Yabes, Armed Forces of the Philippine Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, Defense Assistant Secretary Raymund Quilop, Foreign Affairs Acting Assistant Secretary Gina Jamoralin, among others.

Also in attendance were US Ambassador Harry K. Thomas Jr., US Department of Defense Chief of Staff Mark Lippert, Acting Assistant Secretary for Asia Policy Dr. Peter Lavoy, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Defense for Southeast Asia Vikram Singh and USMC Senior Military Assistant Lieutenant General Thomas Waldhauser.

Hagel is in Manila in the last leg of a week-long Southeast Asian tour that included Malaysia, Indonesia, and attendance to the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting in Brunei before returning to Washington August 30.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560582

Hagel says U.S. remains committed to further develop ties with the PHL

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Hagel says U.S. remains committed to further develop ties with the PHL

United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said he had a productive meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday and assured that the US remains committed to further develop its close ties with the Philippines.

"In my meeting with President Aquino, I noted that the deep and unbreakable alliance between United States and Philippines is an anchor for peace and stability and prosperity in this region," Hagel said in his remarks during a joint press conference with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at the Heroes' Hall of Malacanang Palace.

"Our close ties with the Philippines have been forged through history of shared sacrifice and common purpose, and continuing to strengthen the close partnership between our nations is an important part of America’s long-term strategy of re-balancing in the Asia Pacific,” he said.”

Hagel is in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia.

During his visit, Hagel paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive at the Music Room of Malacanang Palace on Friday.

"One thing that I want to emphasize is that United States is committed to the mutual defense treaty between our nations. It was borne out of Americans and Filipinos fighting shoulder-to-shoulder during World War II, and it has formed the foundation of the US-Philippines security relationship for more than 60 years," Hagel stressed.

Hagel's visit to the Philippines is seen as a continuing US effort to assure the Philippines that it will help maintain peace in the region amid territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560614

Gazmin says Philippines and United States continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities for regional peace and stability

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Gazmin says Philippines and United States continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities for regional peace and stability

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the Philippines and the United States (US) continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities to address the security challenges of mutual concern and contribute to regional peace and stability.

"Our alliance remains relevant today as it was before," Gazmin said in his remarks during the press conference on the visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to Manila held at the Heroes' Hall of Malacanang Palace on Friday.

Hagel is in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia.

"As fellow members of the ASEAN defense ministers’ meeting (ADMM)-plus, which was convened for the second time yesterday (Thursday) in Brunei Darussalam, the defense establishments of our two countries deemedit important to enhance our relations not only as allies but also as fellow stakeholders of regional security," Gazmin said.

Hagel's visit to Manila coincides with the 62nd anniversary of the signing of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

"The visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to the Philippines coincides with an important date for Philippines-U.S. defense relations for it was on August 30, 1951 that the Mutual Defense Treaty was signed," Gazmin said.

"The defense relations between our two countries have evolved since then. From military-to-military relations between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Pacific Command, we have begun conducting policy consultations between our defense establishments," Gazmin added.

In addition to the bilateral strategic dialogue between senior officials from the Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments of the Philippines and the US, which was first held in 2011, Gazmin said the two countries held the two-plus-two ministerial consultations between the secretaries of the Philippine and U.S. Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments in April 2012.

Gazmin said the Philippines and US Defense departments are focusing on key areas of cooperation, including maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response, and cyber security and information sharing.

"Indeed, after more than 60 years, the alliance between the Philippines and the U.S. remain relevant as we continue to enhance our capacity to address current concerns and emerging security issues. Thus, we shall continue to work closely to promote our common interests as well as peace and stability in the region," he stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560611

US Defense Chief reaffirms commitment for greater US-PHL military cooperation

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): US Defense Chief reaffirms commitment for greater US-PHL military cooperation
 
Visiting United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the ongoing discussions on a Framework Agreement that will allow wider US military presence in the Philippines for greater regional stability.

In a statement following his meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III Friday in Malacanang, Hagel said the agreement will strengthen cooperation between the two countries militarily and help them work together more effectively.

“So, both now and the future, that relationship will strengthen,” Hagel said adding that “this progress is welcomed and encouraging. I noted that negotiating teams are working hard to finish the Framework Agreement in the near future.”

The US official also assured that the United States doesn’t seek permanent bases in the Philippines and instead use a new model of military-to-military cooperation suited for the US and the Philippines military partnership.

Hagel said that the US looks to increase its rotational presence in the Philippines as what America did recently in Singapore and Australia.

“Such an arrangement would benefit both our militaries by increasing our ability to train and operate together. Deepening engagement opportunities between our forces will further support President Aquino’s defense modernization agenda,” the US defense official said.

Hagel said the US has a great deal of experience in building a modern military and his country is willing to share what it learned in the past to its Filipino allies.

The US Defense Chief stressed that he discussed with President Aquino the situation in the South China Sea, an issue which the United States and its partners hope to resolve through peaceful means and without coercion.

The US, he said, supports ASEAN’s efforts to negotiate the South China Sea Code of Conduct, which will help peacefully-manage disagreements and tensions arising from competing territorial and maritime claims.

Hagel encouraged claimant nations to peacefully resolve their disputes to internationally accepted mechanisms in accordance with international law including the Law of the Sea.

He said the US supports the Philippines’ efforts to solve its dispute by bringing the issue to international arbitration.

The US Defense Secretary arrived in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia. His visit to the Philippines coincides with the 62nd anniversary of the signing of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty on August 30, 1951.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560628

2 soldiers killed, 3 others injured in Kalinga ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): 2 soldiers killed, 3 others injured in Kalinga ambush

Two soldiers from the 17th Infantry Battalion were killed and three others wounded after an undetermined number of New People's Army (NPA) rebels staged an ambush in Sitio Tumiangan, Barangay Dupag, Tabuk City, Kalinga Friday afternoon.

1st Lt. Rowena Abayon, 5th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the incident took place around 1:40 p.m. as the soldiers were responding to reports that the rebels were extorting and harassing residents of the said barangay.

At this point, the NPAs fired on the soldiers, killing two and wounding three others before retreating to the mountainous area.

The slain soldiers were identified as Cpl. Dominador A. Concordia and Pfc. Rey B. Raagas.

The wounded and now undergoing treatment in a hospital in the city were identified as 2nd Lt. Czar N. Carsido, Pfc. Marnel Langnga and Pfc. Kennedy D. Sallaya.

Pursuit operations are still ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=560743

US not seeking permanent bases in PH, says defense chief Hagel

From InterAksyon (Aug 30): US not seeking permanent bases in PH, says defense chief Hagel



Visiting US Defense Sec Chuck Hagel is greeted by Pres. Benigno Aquino III and Defense Sec Voltaire Gazmin.

The United States "does not seek permanent bases in the Philippines," visiting US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said Friday, following a courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III in Malacanang.

Permanent basing "represents a return to an outdated Cold War" mentality and is not suited to the new, and evolving challenges to security and cooperation in the region, explained Hagel, who is visiting Manila as part of a Southeast Asian swing after attending the ASEAN defense chiefs' meeting in Brunei.

Instead of permanent basing, "we are using a new model of military-to-military cooperation befitting great allies and friends, and looking to increase our rotational presence here, as we have done recently in Singapore and Australia," added Hagel.

He said such an arrangement "would benefit both our militaries by increasing our ability to train and operate together. Deepening engagement opportunities between our forces will further support President Aquino’s defense modernization agenda."

The US and the Philippines are confident of stronger military cooperation, said both sides in a joint press briefing by Hagel and Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. "The deep and unbreakable alliance between the United States and Philippines is an anchor for peace and stability and prosperity in this region," said the US defense chief.

Hagel explained that "as the US re-balance to the Asia Pacific makes clear, this region is very important to America’s economic, strategic, and security interests both now and the years to come. So I look forward to continuing our engagement in the region."

"As much as I know, President Obama is looking forward to his upcoming visit" to the region, added Hagel.

They described their talks as "productive" as they tackled ongoing discussions on a framework agreement on increased US rotational presence in the Philippines.

Finally, Hagel said he discussed with President Aquino, and meant to discuss with the ministers, the situation in the South China Sea. He said the US and its allies, partners and friends in this part of the world hope this "will be resolved peacefully and without coercion."

He affirmed US support for ASEAN efforts to negotiate the South China Sea Code of Conduct, "which will help peacefully manage disagreements and tensions arising from competing territorial and maritime claims." He also praised the "Philippines’ efforts to solve its dispute through peaceful means."

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/69713/us-not-seeking-permanent-bases-in-ph-says-defense-chief-hagel

AFP mum on reward given for capture of security guard tagged as 'CPP leader'

From InterAksyon (Aug 30): AFP mum on reward given for capture of security guard tagged as 'CPP leader'

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is mum on why it handed a P5.6-million reward for the capture of a man they had long been insisting was a ranking communist rebel, but who the Court of Appeals recently said was an innocent victim of "mistaken identity."

Brigadier General Domingo Tutaan Jr., AFP spokesman, refused to give an explanation when sought for comment on the CA decision that the man the military claimed was “Benjamin Mendoza,” supposedly the Communist Party of the Philippines chief in Southern Tagalog, was actually security guard Rolly Mira Panesa.

Panesa was arrested in Quezon City October 5 last year by military and police agents.
Human rights groups said he had been severely tortured and released photographs showing his battered face and other injuries.

In its ruling, the CA’s Fifth Division said Panesa “is a simple security guard and not a high-ranking officer of the CPP-NPA (New People’s Army) … This Court will not further want to hold in detention a person who is not Danilo Benjamin Mendoza, accused of rebellion, murder, frustrated murder, etc.” and ordered him released from the Metro Manila District Jail in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City.

In a well-publicized event on August 12, AFP chief of staff General Emmanuel Bautista handed out P19.25 million to 10 informants responsible for the “neutralization” of wanted “rebels and terrorists.”

“Among the neutralized NPA leaders is Danilo Benjamin Mendoza alias ‘Rolly Panesa’ who has P5.6-million reward money on his head,” the press release issued by military public affairs office chief Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala said.

“He was the NPA’s Secretary of Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee and member of the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) Central Committee. Mendoza was captured during a special intelligence operation by Philippine Army troops and police elements in Quezon City, October last year.”

Joint Memorandum 2012-14 of the Departments of Interior and Local Government and of National Defense also included “Mendoza” among a list of 235 “wanted communists” and allocating P466.88 million in rewards for their capture.

The human rights group Karapatan slammed the reward system as an “organized racket” by military officers.

“It’s simply a rip-off, an organized racket,” Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay said in a statement.

Asked earlier to comment on Palabay’s accusation, Tutaan ignored the question.

On Friday, Karapatan called for the sacking and prosecution of Bautista, Southern Luzon Commander Major (now AFP vice chief of staff) General Alan Luga “and all military and police officials involved in the illegal arrest, torture and detention of Panesa” for violating the Anti-Torture Law and Republic Act 7438, which guarantees the rights of arrested or detained persons.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/69710/afp-mum-on-reward-given-for-capture-of-security-guard-tagged-as-cpp-leader

Air Force mounts rocket strikes vs NPA in Sagada

From InterAksyon (Aug 30): Air Force mounts rocket strikes vs NPA in Sagada

Air Force attack helicopters pounded suspected lairs of the New People’s Army in Sagada, Mt. Province on Friday in support of a ground assault by government forces, police said.

 “Yes, the airstrike was being conducted by two MG520” choppers, Superintendent Davy Vicente Limmong, spokesman of the Cordiller regional police office, said.

He would not say which areas in the town, a popular tourist destination, were being bombed by the Air Force 1st Division’s Strike Wing but a Sagada resident said the choppers had been "dropping bombs and spraying bullets in the watershed close to the villages" as "villagers watched helplessly in terror."

The resident said there were two strikes Friday, at 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., and that soldiers had camped at the Aguid elementary school.

The air strikes came after Thursday’s ambush by NPA guerrillas of a convoy of policemen on the boundary of Barangay Aguid, Sagada and Barangay Mainit, Bontoc.

Two policemen were wounded in the incident.

Sagada was declared a peace zone supposed to be off limits to armed members of warring forces several years ago.

On June 28, rebels also ambushed a group of police trainees, killing one policeman and wounding almost a dozen.

The NPA said they did not target the trainees but their armed escorts. The rebels said they had seized more than a dozen weapons during the incident.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/69712/air-force-mounts-rocket-strikes-vs-npa-in-sagada

2 soldiers hurt in North Cotabato roadside blast

From InterAksyon (Aug 30): 2 soldiers hurt in North Cotabato roadside blast

Two Army soldiers were wounded in a roadside bomb explosion in the town of Midsayap, North Cotabato Friday morning.

Captain Tony Bulao, spokesman of the 602nd Infantry Brigade said the victims, whom he identified only as Staff Sergeant Ubogan and Sergean Sapon, of the 40th Infantry Battalion’s Charlie Company were on their way to get water from a source some 200 meters from their camp when the bomb went off around 7 a.m.

The device was crafted from a 60-mm mortar round and triggered by a cellular phone.

40th IB commander Lieutenant Colonel Bon Huet said they suspect the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters was behind the attack because of his unit’s efforts to prevent the rebels, who belong to a faction that broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, from infiltrating populated areas.

Earlier, BIFF spokesman Abu Misry Mama said they would continue attacking military outposts and facilities in their continued struggle for an independent state.
The wounded personnel were taken to the Camp Siongo Hospital where they were declared in stable condition.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/69716/2-soldiers-hurt-in-north-cotabato-roadside-blast

US-PH DEFENSE BRIEF | Opening Statements of Hagel, Gazmin at Joint Presser

From InterAksyon (Aug 30): US-PH DEFENSE BRIEF | Opening Statements of Hagel, Gazmin at Joint Presser



The defense chief of treaty allies United States and the Philippines presided over a joint press briefing Friday after the meeting of Secretary Chuck Hagel with President Benigno Aquino III at Malacanang Palace. The meeting and briefing coincided with the 62nd anniversary of the RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

Here is the official transcript of their opening statements.

Opening Statement of United States Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel following his courtesy call to President Benigno Aquino III in Malacanang Palace on August 30, 2013

Good morning. It’s a pleasure to be back here in the Philippines at the conclusion of my second trip to Asia as Secretary of Defense. One that is taking me to Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and now, here.

I have been to the Philippines many times over the years. I first started coming to the  Philippines in the mid-late 1980s when I was president of the World USO and as a United States senator, I visited the Philippines often.

I first learned about the Philippines when my father, who was here during World War II and spent some time in Clark Air Field. He was a radio operator, tail gunner on a B-25 and has many, many pictures of his experience here. He loved the Filipino people; he loved this country. And I have always been somewhat influenced by my father’s early assessment but, I can tell you that if he was alive today, I would tell him that I wholly agree with that assessment of this country and the people here in this country.

This morning, I had a very productive meeting with President Aquino, and I look forward to meeting again with Secretary of National Defense Gazmin, who has spent some time at the ASEAN conference and I saw the Secretary at the Shangri-la dialogue and saw him and (-unclear-)... So we’ve seen a lot of each other over the last few months. And I appreciate very much his time this morning. I also have an opportunity to meet with Secretary of Foreign Affairs del Rosario and I look forward to that meeting as well.

In my meeting with President Aquino, I noted that the deep and unbreakable alliance between United States and Philippines is an anchor for peace and stability and prosperity in this region. Our close ties with the Philippines have been forged through history of shared sacrifice and common purpose, and continuing to strengthen the close partnership between our nations is an important part of America’s long-term strategy of re-balancing in the Asia Pacific. One thing that I want to  emphasize is that United States is committed to the mutual defense treaty between our nations. It was borne out of Americans and Filipinos fighting shoulder-to-shoulder during World War II, and it has formed the foundation of the US-Philippines security relationship for more than 60 years.

In the spirit of that treaty, in its continuing relevance today, President Aquino, when I reaffirmed the progress being made in the ongoing discussions for our Framework Agreement. This agreement will strengthen cooperation between our two militaries and help them work together more effectively. So, both now and the future, that relationship will strengthen. This progress is welcomed and encouraging. I noted that our negotiating teams are working hard to finish the Framework Agreement in the near future.

The United States does not seek permanent bases in the Philippines. That would represent a return to an outdated cold war mentality. Instead, we are using a new model of military to military cooperation befitting to great allies and friends, and looking to increase our rotational presence here, as we have done recently in Singapore and Australia. Such an arrangement would benefit both our militaries by increasing our ability to train and operate together. Deepening engagement opportunities between our forces will further support President Aquino’s defense modernization agenda.

The United States has a great deal of experience in building a modern military and we would like to share what we’ve learned with our Filipino allies. I also discussed with President Aquino and intend to discuss with the ministers, the situation in the South China Sea, an issue which the United States, our allies, partners and friends in this part of the world hope will be resolved peacefully and without coercion.

The United States supports ASEAN efforts to negotiate the South China Sea Code of Conduct, which will help peacefully manage disagreements and tensions arising from competing territorial and maritime claims. In the meantime, we encourage nations to peacefully resolve their disputes to internationally accepted mechanism and accordance with international law, including the Law of the Sea and without coercion or militarize attempts to alter the status quo. The United States appreciates the Philippines’ efforts to solve its dispute through peaceful means.

I close by observing this has been a productive trip for me to Southeast Asia. As the United States re-balance to the Asia Pacific makes clear, this region is very important to America’s economic, strategic, and security interests both now and the years to come. So I look forward to continuing our engagement in the region. As much as I know, President Obama is looking forward to his upcoming visit.

Thank you very much.

Opening Statement of Philippine Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin:

Members of the press, ladies, and gentlemen:

Today, we mark another milestone in Philippines-U.S. defense relations. The visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to the Philippines coincides with an important date for Philippines-U.S. defense relations for it was on 30 August 1951 that the Mutual Defense Treaty was signed. Today, therefore, is the 62nd anniversary of the Treaty.

The defense relations between our two countries have evolved since then. From military-to-military relations between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Pacific Command, we have begun conducting policy consultations between our defense establishments. In addition to the bilateral strategic dialogue between senior officials from the Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments of both countries, which was first held in 2011, we also had the two-plus-two ministerial consultations between the secretaries of the Philippine and U.S. Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments in April 2012.

Our alliance remains relevant today as it was before. As we have reached a critical juncture in our alliance where our concerns on traditional and non-traditional security issues have become intertwined, the Philippines and the U.S. continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities to address security challenges of mutual concern and contribute to regional peace and stability.

As fellow members of the ASEAN defense ministers’ meeting (ADMM)-plus, which was convened for the second time yesterday in Brunei Darussalam, the defense establishments of our two countries deem it important to enhance our relations not only as allies but also as fellow stakeholders of regional security.

Today, we focus on key areas of cooperation, including maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response (HA/DR), and cyber security and information sharing.

Indeed, after more than 60 years, the alliance between the Philippines and the U.S. remain relevant as we continue to enhance our capacity to address current concerns and emerging security issues. Thus, we shall continue to work closely to promote our common interests as well as peace and stability in the region.

Thank you.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/69734/us-ph-defense-brief--opening-statements-of-hagel-gazmin-at-joint-presser

Philippine military, Muslim rebels join forces to fight terrorism

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 29): Philippine military, Muslim rebels join forces to fight terrorism

Philippine soldiers and police commandos have joined forces with Muslim rebels in a historic pact to run after terrorists in the southern region of Mindanao where security forces are battling radical groups with links to al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiya.

Rebel and military commanders welcomed the local pact and said this would further strengthen cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the country’s largest Muslim rebel group now negotiating peace with Manila.

The International Monitoring Team is also supporting the joint operation, which started just recently in Maguindanao province.

Army Col. Manolito Orense, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, said both the military and the MILF are supporting peace in the southern Philippines.
Orense spoke to soldiers and rebels at the army headquarters in the province before the start of their deployment in Maguindanao.

The region has been the scene of recent bomb attacks that killed and wounded dozens of innocent civilians and the Aquino government blamed so-called spoilers of the peace process as behind the violence.

 Conspiracy

The MILF has said that it appears there is a conspiracy of all anti-peace and anti-MILF forces against the success of the current peace negotiation which is now in the last stretch and that the administration of President Benigno Aquino is not spared from this. It is as much as the target of this hate and shaming campaign as the MILF, it said.

It said the conspirators are not acting as one body, but tactically they converge to ensure that the peace process will fail because of a common interest.

“Who are these people or groups? It is very easy to know them, because some are speaking to the media openly or releasing “poison” statements, others spread rumors and intrigues, and another either explode bombs or launch attacks against government military positions. Add the MNLF-Nur Misuari’s declaration of independence of the Bangsamoro Republik and we have full array of these groups,” the MILF said in an editorial on its website.

“The MILF is not totally unaware of this development. We know that as we close-in to the finishing line of the negotiation, the oppositions will intensify their spoilage, because it is in the nature of things that the bigger the impending success the bigger the challenge or threat ranged against it. Besides, the society of man has good number of insane, purist, extremist, and sadist. They all belong to the category of sick mind and for which history had suffered deaths and destructions. Moreover, there are those whose ego, pride or anger they cannot manage or are prisoner thereof. Similarly, they find fulfilment in the fit of their anger or their ego is praised to the highest heaven,” it said.

The editorial said as long as the MILF, the Philippine government and majority of the people, including the international community are one and fully committed to pursue the peaceful track through to the end, “this dubious scheme will not succeed.”

“The message of peace is so powerful that those who are not swayed to its side will be swept aside into the dustbin of history. Amidst these challenges, the MILF still pursues conciliatory approach. We know that the power of logic and reason resonates so powerfully that men of understanding will respond positively. We will continue to uphold this approach or policy without losing sight of the fact that men of the other mold will always enjoy at the sufferings of others. This is a different matter,” it said.













Philippine troops and police commandos join forces with Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels to hunt down terrorist in Mindanao region. And Army Col. Manolito Orense, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, speak to security and rebel forces, in Maguindanao province. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Mark Navales)

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/08/philippine-military-muslim-rebels-join.html

Rebels own up attack vs. army-led militias in Davao City

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 30): Rebels own up attack vs. army-led militias in Davao City

Communist rebels have taken responsibility for a recent attack on a group of pro-government militias in Davao City in southern Philippines as punishment for violating the rights of local villagers.

Ka Tano Paragas, a rebel spokesman, said fighters from the New People’s Army detonated an explosive that targeted the militias in the village of Tapak in Paquibato district.

He said the militias were allegedly behind a series of cattle rustling and other atrocities against civilians.

Paragas said: “The military also employs the classic tactic of pitting Lumads (tribesmen) against Lumads to control ancestral territories and make it easier for capitalist mining companies to enter and exploit ancestral resources.”

There was no immediate statement from the military about the NPA accusations against the abuses of the army-led militia group in Paquibato district.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/08/rebels-own-up-attack-vs-army-led.html

Eastern Mindanao Command turns 7

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 30): Eastern Mindanao Command turns 7

 

Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III (Mindanao Examiner Library Photo)

 

The Eastern Mindanao Command is celebrating its 7th founding anniversary and its commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III has vowed to continue working hard for the attainment of peace and development in the region.

 

Capt. Albert Caber, the military’s chief information officer, said Gen. Cruz also “congratulated the men and women of the Eastern Mindanao Command and down to the units under it for painstakingly pursuing their jobs with dedication.”

He said Gen. Cruz has encouraged the “Team EastMinCom” to continue to work hand in hand for the attainment of peace and development programs for the benefit of the Filipino people.

“As a team, I am confident that we shall accomplish much in the coming day and all these peace and development efforts will bear fruits and benefit our people. Let us continue in our efforts and work hand in hand in the attainment of peace in Mindanao,” Gen. Cruz said.

Capt. Caber said this year’s theme is Eastern Mindanao Command, Patuloy na kaagapay ng Silangang Mindanaw para sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran.”

 

He said the celebration is marked with a sport festival and awarding of medals to soldiers and civilian employees of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

 

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/08/eastern-mindanao-command-turns-7.html