From the Manila Times (Nov 13): Obama affirms support for Philippines’ relief efforts
U.S. President Barack Obama on Tuesday called his Philippine counterpart Benigno Aquino III to affirm U.S. support for his country’s relief efforts in the wake of a devastating attack by Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).
Obama expressed his “deep condolences” for the lives lost and damage caused by Yolanda, one of the strongest storms to ever hit land, the White House said in a statement.
“President Obama discussed with President Aquino the need for a speedy assessment of what further American resources would be most helpful to assist in the Philippine recovery effort,” the White House said.
Washington was sending, among others, U.S. Marines, the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and other Navy ships as well as US$ 20 million in humanitarian aid to help disaster relief efforts in the Philippines, as Obama directed his administration over the weekend to mount a “swift and coordinated” response.
“In the days ahead, the United States will continue to work with the Philippines to deliver whatever help we can, as quickly as possible,” the White House said.
Haiyan, which hit the Philippines on Friday and Saturday, is believed to have left 10,000 people dead and 660,000 others displaced.
Two U.S. citizens were among the dead, State Department spokeswoman Jennifer Psaki said on Tuesday.
http://manilatimes.net/obama-affirms-support-for-philippines-relief-efforts/52666/
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Navy ship to ferry people out of Tacloban to Cebu
From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 12): Navy ship to ferry people out of Tacloban to Cebu
The Central Command (CentCom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday announced that a navy ship will be deployed to Tacloban to ferry people who want to get out of the city and go to Cebu.
A source from CentCom said the Navy‘s LC550 will be used to transport passengers from Tacloban to Cebu. The vessel has the capacity to accommodate up to 1,500 people.
People who want to board the navy ship will have to line up at the Tacloban port because the boarding will be on a first come, first serve basis.
The AFP is deploying the Navy ship following thousands of requests from local residents wanting to board the C-130 cargo planes flown by the Philippine Air Force to bring relief goods to Tacloban.
The C-130 planes, said the AFP, are strictly for transporting relief goods and ferrying of military personnel from Cebu to Tacloban City and vice versa. The AFP said, though, that it will prioritize sick and wounded persons due for treatment in Cebu City on board C-130 aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Provincial Board (PB) has declared the entire Cebu province under a state of calamity after super typhoon Yolanda struck the Visayas region.
It was the second declaration the PB made in less than 30 days after a strong earthquake also hit Cebu last October 15.
The PB also authorized Gov. Hilario Davide III to release P23 million from the province’s calamity fund as financial assistance to local government units (LGUs) badly hit by the typhoon.
The local government units (LGUs) of Bantayan, Madridejos, Santa Fe, Medellin, Daanbantayan, San Remigio, and Pilar towns, as well as Bogo City will get P2 million each while Poro, San Francisco, Tudela, Borbon, Tabogon, Tabuelan and Sogod will get P1 million each.
http://www.mb.com.ph/navy-ship-to-ferry-people-out-of-tacloban-to-cebu/
The Central Command (CentCom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday announced that a navy ship will be deployed to Tacloban to ferry people who want to get out of the city and go to Cebu.
A source from CentCom said the Navy‘s LC550 will be used to transport passengers from Tacloban to Cebu. The vessel has the capacity to accommodate up to 1,500 people.
People who want to board the navy ship will have to line up at the Tacloban port because the boarding will be on a first come, first serve basis.
The AFP is deploying the Navy ship following thousands of requests from local residents wanting to board the C-130 cargo planes flown by the Philippine Air Force to bring relief goods to Tacloban.
The C-130 planes, said the AFP, are strictly for transporting relief goods and ferrying of military personnel from Cebu to Tacloban City and vice versa. The AFP said, though, that it will prioritize sick and wounded persons due for treatment in Cebu City on board C-130 aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Provincial Board (PB) has declared the entire Cebu province under a state of calamity after super typhoon Yolanda struck the Visayas region.
It was the second declaration the PB made in less than 30 days after a strong earthquake also hit Cebu last October 15.
The PB also authorized Gov. Hilario Davide III to release P23 million from the province’s calamity fund as financial assistance to local government units (LGUs) badly hit by the typhoon.
The local government units (LGUs) of Bantayan, Madridejos, Santa Fe, Medellin, Daanbantayan, San Remigio, and Pilar towns, as well as Bogo City will get P2 million each while Poro, San Francisco, Tudela, Borbon, Tabogon, Tabuelan and Sogod will get P1 million each.
http://www.mb.com.ph/navy-ship-to-ferry-people-out-of-tacloban-to-cebu/
US, Britain send warships to help Philippine relief efforts
From InterAksyon (Nov 12): US, Britain send warships to help Philippine relief efforts
A US aircraft carrier set sail for the Philippines on Tuesday to accelerate relief efforts after a typhoon killed an estimated 10,000 people in one coastal city alone, with fears the toll could rise sharply as rescuers reach hundreds of isolated towns and villages.
The nuclear-powered USS George Washington, carrying about 5,000 sailors and more than 80 aircraft, was joined by four other US Navy ships and should arrive in two to three days, the Pentagon said.
"The weather is pretty bad out there, so we are limited by seas and wind," Captain Thomas Disy, commander of the USS Antietam, a missile cruiser that's part of the carrier group, told reporters in Hong Kong. "But we are going to be going as fast as we possibly can."
Philippine officials have been overwhelmed by Super Typhoon Yolanda (international code name: Haiyan), one of the strongest on record, which tore through the central Philippines on Friday and flattened Tacloban, coastal capital of Leyte province where officials fear 10,000 people died, many drowning in a tsunami-like wall of seawater.
Relief supplies poured into Tacloban along roads flanked with uncollected corpses and canyons of debris as the rain fell again. Rescue workers scrambled to reach other towns and villages still cut off, which could reveal the full extent of the casualties and devastation.
"There are hundreds of other towns and villages stretched over thousands of kilometers that were in the path of the typhoon and with which all communication has been cut," said Natasha Reyes, emergency coordinator in the Philippines at Médecins Sans Frontières.
"No one knows what the situation is like in these more rural and remote places, and it's going to be some time before we have a full picture."
She described the devastation as unprecedented for the Philippines, a disaster-prone archipelago of more than 7,000 islands that sees about 20 typhoons a year, likening the storm to "a massive earthquake followed by huge floods".
About 660,000 people have been displaced and many have no access to food, water or medicine, the United Nations said.
Britain is also sending a navy warship with equipment to make drinking water from seawater and a military transport aircraft. The HMS Daring left Singapore and expects to arrive in two or three days.....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/74680/us-britain-send-warships-to-help-philippine-relief-efforts
A US aircraft carrier set sail for the Philippines on Tuesday to accelerate relief efforts after a typhoon killed an estimated 10,000 people in one coastal city alone, with fears the toll could rise sharply as rescuers reach hundreds of isolated towns and villages.
The nuclear-powered USS George Washington, carrying about 5,000 sailors and more than 80 aircraft, was joined by four other US Navy ships and should arrive in two to three days, the Pentagon said.
"The weather is pretty bad out there, so we are limited by seas and wind," Captain Thomas Disy, commander of the USS Antietam, a missile cruiser that's part of the carrier group, told reporters in Hong Kong. "But we are going to be going as fast as we possibly can."
Philippine officials have been overwhelmed by Super Typhoon Yolanda (international code name: Haiyan), one of the strongest on record, which tore through the central Philippines on Friday and flattened Tacloban, coastal capital of Leyte province where officials fear 10,000 people died, many drowning in a tsunami-like wall of seawater.
Relief supplies poured into Tacloban along roads flanked with uncollected corpses and canyons of debris as the rain fell again. Rescue workers scrambled to reach other towns and villages still cut off, which could reveal the full extent of the casualties and devastation.
"There are hundreds of other towns and villages stretched over thousands of kilometers that were in the path of the typhoon and with which all communication has been cut," said Natasha Reyes, emergency coordinator in the Philippines at Médecins Sans Frontières.
"No one knows what the situation is like in these more rural and remote places, and it's going to be some time before we have a full picture."
She described the devastation as unprecedented for the Philippines, a disaster-prone archipelago of more than 7,000 islands that sees about 20 typhoons a year, likening the storm to "a massive earthquake followed by huge floods".
About 660,000 people have been displaced and many have no access to food, water or medicine, the United Nations said.
Britain is also sending a navy warship with equipment to make drinking water from seawater and a military transport aircraft. The HMS Daring left Singapore and expects to arrive in two or three days.....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/74680/us-britain-send-warships-to-help-philippine-relief-efforts
Communications restored in Tacloban City
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 12): Communications restored in Tacloban City
CD, TCPO
OPERATION BRANCH
INTEL BRANCH
CPSC GATER
520-8666, 321-5133
POLICE STATION 1
V & G PCP
SAGKAHAN PCP
SAN JOSE PCP
POLICE STATION 2
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/525941/communications-restored-in-tacloban-city
Communication lines have been restored in Tacloban days after supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) wreaked havoc in the city, the Department of National Defense said Tuesday.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines has installed a cellular communication site in the Tacloban City Police Station, allowing inquiries on Yolanda victims and missing persons possible.
The DND said family of Yolanda victims in Tacloban City can reach the police through the following numbers (Area code 053):
CD, TCPO
325-4442
OPERATION BRANCH
325-8808, 520-188, 321-2021
INTEL BRANCH
325-4477
CPSC GATER
520-8666, 321-5133
POLICE STATION 1
323-3449, 523-2510
V & G PCP
327-4413
SAGKAHAN PCP
325 1847
SAN JOSE PCP
323-9211
POLICE STATION 2
321-6968/325-3913
Tacloban City Hall satellite will also be open for inquiries through 09173104288 or 09333672737.
Meanwhile, Globe, Smart and Sun cellular telecommunication services were also restored on Monday, a government release announced Tuesday noon.
The telco giants have established Libreng Tawag (Free Call) services in some areas in Tacloban while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Operations Center in has provided free phone charging services to the affected persons.
On Saturday, the DSWD established a free satellite internet service in front of Tacloban City Hall. As of 12:00 noon Tuesday, the free internet service has served 3,400 persons, including members of media and non-government organizations (NGOs).
Based on the 6 a.m. report of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Tuesday, communications interruptions still remain in the following areas: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Cebu (municipalities of northern Cebu and Bogo City), Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Surigao del Norte (municipality of Bacuag).
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/525941/communications-restored-in-tacloban-city
US Military providing support to the Philippines
From DVIDS (Nov 11): US Military providing support to the Philippines
U.S. MARINE CORPS FORCES, PACIFIC - At the request of the Government of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has directed U.S. Pacific Command to support U.S. Government humanitarian relief operations in the Philippines in the wake of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda. U.S. Pacific Command has designated the commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, as the executive agent for this operation.
U.S. Military assets began moving Sunday (Philippine time) to begin initial assessments of support requirements. The forward command element/humanitarian assistance survey team, led by Marine Brig. Gen. Paul Kennedy, the deputy commander of the Third Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) and the commanding general of the Third Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB), is continuously assessing the situation along with the Government and Armed Forces of the Philippines to determine how to best make use of personnel and resources. Approximately 215 U.S. military personnel are currently deployed in support of this operation.
The initial focus includes surface maritime search and rescue (SAR), airborne maritime SAR, medium-heavy helicopter lift support, fixed-wing lift support and logistics enablers. This includes four MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 and five KC-130J Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, both part of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF, based in Okinawa, Japan. The MV-22 provides a unique capability in this type of operation: with its short/vertical take-off and landing capabilities, it can operate in austere environments. Its ability to convert quickly to fixed-wing configuration gives it greatly increased speed and range over traditional rotary wing aircraft.
Two U.S. Navy P-3 Orion aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 26, based in Jacksonville, Florida and currently on a six month rotation to Misawa, Japan in support of the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, are in the Philippines to assist with the Armed Forces of the Philippines' search and rescue operations.
On Monday, Marine Corps C-130s assisted in the delivery of 38,000 pounds of relief supplies provided by the Government of the Philippines, as well as the transport of 210 aid workers. On Tuesday, MEB personnel will assist with receiving relief supplies from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)-donated relief supplies, as well as assisting with the transport of those supplies to the affected areas.
Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda has impacted more than 4.2 million people across 36 provinces in the Philippines, according to the Philippine government’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Philippine officials will have a better idea of the damage and death toll in the coming days as transportation and communications systems are repaired.
In coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the U.S. Charge’ d’Affairs in Manila, the Department of Defense will continue to monitor the effects of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda and will help our ally recover from the storm.
Since 1990, the U.S. Government has responded to more than 40 disasters in the Philippines at the request of that country’s government, ranging from volcanic eruptions, drought, and population displacement.
To view the Typhoon Haiyan HADR photo album visit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/3mefpao/sets/72157637512259374/
Also visit the U.S. Embassy Manila Facebook page:
@usembassymanila
facebook.com/manila.usembassy
plus.google.com/+USEmbassyManila
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/116554/us-military-providing-support-philippines#.UoL_JY4o5jo
U.S. MARINE CORPS FORCES, PACIFIC - At the request of the Government of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has directed U.S. Pacific Command to support U.S. Government humanitarian relief operations in the Philippines in the wake of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda. U.S. Pacific Command has designated the commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, as the executive agent for this operation.
U.S. Military assets began moving Sunday (Philippine time) to begin initial assessments of support requirements. The forward command element/humanitarian assistance survey team, led by Marine Brig. Gen. Paul Kennedy, the deputy commander of the Third Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) and the commanding general of the Third Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB), is continuously assessing the situation along with the Government and Armed Forces of the Philippines to determine how to best make use of personnel and resources. Approximately 215 U.S. military personnel are currently deployed in support of this operation.
The initial focus includes surface maritime search and rescue (SAR), airborne maritime SAR, medium-heavy helicopter lift support, fixed-wing lift support and logistics enablers. This includes four MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 and five KC-130J Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, both part of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF, based in Okinawa, Japan. The MV-22 provides a unique capability in this type of operation: with its short/vertical take-off and landing capabilities, it can operate in austere environments. Its ability to convert quickly to fixed-wing configuration gives it greatly increased speed and range over traditional rotary wing aircraft.
Two U.S. Navy P-3 Orion aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 26, based in Jacksonville, Florida and currently on a six month rotation to Misawa, Japan in support of the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, are in the Philippines to assist with the Armed Forces of the Philippines' search and rescue operations.
On Monday, Marine Corps C-130s assisted in the delivery of 38,000 pounds of relief supplies provided by the Government of the Philippines, as well as the transport of 210 aid workers. On Tuesday, MEB personnel will assist with receiving relief supplies from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)-donated relief supplies, as well as assisting with the transport of those supplies to the affected areas.
Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda has impacted more than 4.2 million people across 36 provinces in the Philippines, according to the Philippine government’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Philippine officials will have a better idea of the damage and death toll in the coming days as transportation and communications systems are repaired.
In coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the U.S. Charge’ d’Affairs in Manila, the Department of Defense will continue to monitor the effects of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda and will help our ally recover from the storm.
Since 1990, the U.S. Government has responded to more than 40 disasters in the Philippines at the request of that country’s government, ranging from volcanic eruptions, drought, and population displacement.
To view the Typhoon Haiyan HADR photo album visit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/3mefpao/sets/72157637512259374/
Also visit the U.S. Embassy Manila Facebook page:
@usembassymanila
facebook.com/manila.usembassy
plus.google.com/+USEmbassyManila
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/116554/us-military-providing-support-philippines#.UoL_JY4o5jo
'Don't take advantage of typhoon victims', military urges NPAs
From the Philippine Star (Nov 11): 'Don't take advantage of typhoon victims', military urges NPAs
The military has urged communist rebels not to take advantage of the misery of typhoon victims and has encouraged them to support the relief efforts in affected areas.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista said there is no place for armed offensives now that many are suffering from the impact of typhoon “Yolanda.”
“Hopefully, they (rebels) don’t take advantage again just like what happened during (the devastation of) typhoon ‘Pablo.’ I hope they don’t take advantage of the sufferings of our countrymen,” Bautista said in a chance interview Sunday evening in Camp Aguinaldo.
The New People’s Army (NPA), Bautista said, should help those who are conducting relief operations instead.
“We have a national problem and we should help each other. There is no place for attacks and armed struggles,” the military chief said.
Last year, the military accused the insurgents of hampering relief operations in areas affected by typhoon ‘Pablo.’
A group aligned with the NPA reportedly tried to intercept soldiers who were about to deliver goods to typhoon victims in Talaingod in Davao del Norte last December.
Officials said a relief team from the 60th Infantry Battalion was fired upon at the outreach station in Barangay Sto. Niño.
The attack happened despite the 29-day ceasefire declared by the NPA in typhoon-stricken areas.
Bautista said they are prioritizing humanitarian and disaster response efforts over internal security for now.
“Our focus now is relief operation. There is no formal declaration (of ceasefire),” he said.
Last week, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) called for “mass mobilization” to generate emergency supply and funds for rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The group also called on “people in the areas least affected by the storm to extend maximum possible help to the people who are most in need of emergency assistance.”
CPP noted that many of the areas ravaged by the typhoon were those recently hit by powerful earthquakes.
“These areas are among the most impoverished in the entire country, where the majority are poor peasants, unemployed farm workers, small fisherfolk and indigenous peoples,” the group said in a statement.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/11/11/1255568/dont-take-advantage-typhoon-victims-military-urges-npas
The military has urged communist rebels not to take advantage of the misery of typhoon victims and has encouraged them to support the relief efforts in affected areas.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista said there is no place for armed offensives now that many are suffering from the impact of typhoon “Yolanda.”
“Hopefully, they (rebels) don’t take advantage again just like what happened during (the devastation of) typhoon ‘Pablo.’ I hope they don’t take advantage of the sufferings of our countrymen,” Bautista said in a chance interview Sunday evening in Camp Aguinaldo.
The New People’s Army (NPA), Bautista said, should help those who are conducting relief operations instead.
“We have a national problem and we should help each other. There is no place for attacks and armed struggles,” the military chief said.
Last year, the military accused the insurgents of hampering relief operations in areas affected by typhoon ‘Pablo.’
A group aligned with the NPA reportedly tried to intercept soldiers who were about to deliver goods to typhoon victims in Talaingod in Davao del Norte last December.
Officials said a relief team from the 60th Infantry Battalion was fired upon at the outreach station in Barangay Sto. Niño.
The attack happened despite the 29-day ceasefire declared by the NPA in typhoon-stricken areas.
Bautista said they are prioritizing humanitarian and disaster response efforts over internal security for now.
“Our focus now is relief operation. There is no formal declaration (of ceasefire),” he said.
Last week, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) called for “mass mobilization” to generate emergency supply and funds for rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The group also called on “people in the areas least affected by the storm to extend maximum possible help to the people who are most in need of emergency assistance.”
CPP noted that many of the areas ravaged by the typhoon were those recently hit by powerful earthquakes.
“These areas are among the most impoverished in the entire country, where the majority are poor peasants, unemployed farm workers, small fisherfolk and indigenous peoples,” the group said in a statement.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/11/11/1255568/dont-take-advantage-typhoon-victims-military-urges-npas
Malaysian allegedly involved in Zamboanga attack refuses to return home
From the Star Online (Nov 11): Malaysian allegedly involved in Zamboanga attack refuses to return home
KOTA KINABALU: A Malaysian, who is accused by Manila to be a Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) senior member, is resisting deportation.
Koh Wui Chick, who is from Sabah, has informed Malaysian and Philippines officials that he wanted to remain in the Philippines as his Filipino wife and two children were living in the country.
The 55-year-old man told investigators and Malaysian officials that he was missing his wife and children.
Philippines police arrested Koh in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines on Oct 4.
They are investigating him for allegedly receiving overseas funds to finance the MNLF’s attack in Zamboanga City on Sept 9 where armed members tried to raise the flag of an “independent Bangsamoro Republik.”
Philippines officials said that a Malaysian police representative had visited Philippines National Police headquarters at Camp Crame in Manila to talk to Koh who is undergoing tactical interrogation.
According to sources in the Philippines, investigators were looking at deporting Koh for overstaying his visa that had expired as there were little indications that he was directly involved in the Zamboanga attack.
However, the officials said that they were still investigating Koh’s links to the MNLF and its fugitive leader Nur Misuari who is believed to have fled to the country following the failed Zamboanga City attack.
Koh, who is also known as Samson Jose Konde and Atchong, is a former electrical contractor from Tawau was last known to have lived in Telipok in Kota Kinabalu.
American carrier battle group to help in 'Yolanda' relief efforts
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): American carrier battle group to help in 'Yolanda' relief efforts
An American carrier battle group consisting of the nuclear-powered carrier, USS George Washington (CVN-73), and her escorts, are now enroute to thePhilippines
The US Embassy inManila
The USS George Washington and her group was ordered to "make their best speed" to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster support to thePhilippines
The carrier is escorted by the "Ticonderoga "
guided-missile cruisers USS Antietam (CG-54) and USS Cowpens (CG-63), and the
destroyer USS Mustin (DDG-89).
The supply ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE-10) is already underway and will rendezvous with the group en route to thePhilippines
While the destroyer USS Lassen (DDG-82) is also underway Monday and now headed for thePhilippines
Grim reports on the impact of the super typhoon that left thousands killed and millions of people in need of assistance triggered an outpouring of support from the international community, including theUS
The USS George Washington is crewed by 5,000 sailors and equipped with more than 80 jet aircraft and helicopters.
The ship is currently inHong Kong for a
port visit.
Crew members were recalled early from shore leave for deployment to thePhilippines
Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), embarked on board the USS George Washington, includes an array of aircraft designed to perform various functions including disaster relief.
Among its assets are the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 flying the MH-60S Seahawk; and the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 flying the MH-60R Seahawk.
As needed, these ships and aircraft will be able to provide humanitarian assistance, supplies, and medical care in support of the ongoing efforts led by the government and military of the Republic of thePhilippines
The ships should be on station within 48-72 hours.
The Pentagon is continuing to work closely with the Philippine government to determine what, if any, additional assets may be required.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=585945
An American carrier battle group consisting of the nuclear-powered carrier, USS George Washington (CVN-73), and her escorts, are now enroute to the
The US Embassy in
The USS George Washington and her group was ordered to "make their best speed" to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster support to the
The carrier is escorted by the "
The supply ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE-10) is already underway and will rendezvous with the group en route to the
While the destroyer USS Lassen (DDG-82) is also underway Monday and now headed for the
Grim reports on the impact of the super typhoon that left thousands killed and millions of people in need of assistance triggered an outpouring of support from the international community, including the
The USS George Washington is crewed by 5,000 sailors and equipped with more than 80 jet aircraft and helicopters.
The ship is currently in
Crew members were recalled early from shore leave for deployment to the
Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), embarked on board the USS George Washington, includes an array of aircraft designed to perform various functions including disaster relief.
Among its assets are the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 flying the MH-60S Seahawk; and the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 flying the MH-60R Seahawk.
As needed, these ships and aircraft will be able to provide humanitarian assistance, supplies, and medical care in support of the ongoing efforts led by the government and military of the Republic of the
The ships should be on station within 48-72 hours.
The Pentagon is continuing to work closely with the Philippine government to determine what, if any, additional assets may be required.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=585945
Palace to rebel groups: Now is the time for solidarity, not ambushing government forces engaged in Yolanda relief work
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): Palace to rebel groups: Now is the time for solidarity, not ambushing government forces engaged in Yolanda relief work
Now is the time for solidarity, not for ambushing government troops engaged in relief work for those affected by super typhoon "Yolanda."
Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said this at a media briefing Tuesday at Malacanang where he lamented a reported ambush by rebel groups on soldiers transporting relief goods in Bicol.
"This is a time to be in solidarity with those people affected, and we ask those not with the same views we have, to set aside our differences," Lacierda said.
He was referring to a reported clash between government troops and rebels early Tuesday in Sorsogon. Two rebels were reportedly killed in the encounter.
Lacierda also reiterated that government forces remain in control of the situation in the affected areas, and will remain vigilant.
"The Armed Forces of thePhilippines
Lacierda reiterated that the government is not forgetting the other areas affected by Yolanda.
Also, he said the government is prepared for Tropical Depression "Zoraida," which is threatening parts of Visayas andMindanao .
Lacierda said there are already prepositioned goods in Visayas andMindanao .
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=585967
Now is the time for solidarity, not for ambushing government troops engaged in relief work for those affected by super typhoon "Yolanda."
Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said this at a media briefing Tuesday at Malacanang where he lamented a reported ambush by rebel groups on soldiers transporting relief goods in Bicol.
"This is a time to be in solidarity with those people affected, and we ask those not with the same views we have, to set aside our differences," Lacierda said.
He was referring to a reported clash between government troops and rebels early Tuesday in Sorsogon. Two rebels were reportedly killed in the encounter.
Lacierda also reiterated that government forces remain in control of the situation in the affected areas, and will remain vigilant.
"The Armed Forces of the
Lacierda reiterated that the government is not forgetting the other areas affected by Yolanda.
Also, he said the government is prepared for Tropical Depression "Zoraida," which is threatening parts of Visayas and
Lacierda said there are already prepositioned goods in Visayas and
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=585967
2 NPA fighters killed while attempting to ambush relief convoy in Sorsogon
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): 2 NPA fighters killed while attempting to ambush relief convoy in Sorsogon
Troopers from the 903rd Infantry Brigade shot and killed two New People's Army (NPA) fighters who were attempting to ambush a government relief convoy in Barangay Balocawe, Matnog town, Sorsogon Tuesday morning.
Col. Joselito Kakilala, 903rd Infantry Brigade commander, said the incident took place around 5:25 a.m.
He added that his men were escorting the relief convoy bound for Leyte andSamar when they encountered 15 heavily-armed rebels.
A firefight took place that resulted in the death of two NPA fighters one of which was identified as "Ka Abel", suspected commander of the NPA's Sorsogon Probinsyal Yunit Group.
Another rebel was reported injured. No losses were reported on the government side.
Also recovered were three M-16 automatic rifles, one "Baby Armalite", one M-14 carbine, and one .45-caliber pistol and several improvised explosives.
Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585850
Troopers from the 903rd Infantry Brigade shot and killed two New People's Army (NPA) fighters who were attempting to ambush a government relief convoy in Barangay Balocawe, Matnog town, Sorsogon Tuesday morning.
Col. Joselito Kakilala, 903rd Infantry Brigade commander, said the incident took place around 5:25 a.m.
He added that his men were escorting the relief convoy bound for Leyte and
A firefight took place that resulted in the death of two NPA fighters one of which was identified as "Ka Abel", suspected commander of the NPA's Sorsogon Probinsyal Yunit Group.
Another rebel was reported injured. No losses were reported on the government side.
Also recovered were three M-16 automatic rifles, one "Baby Armalite", one M-14 carbine, and one .45-caliber pistol and several improvised explosives.
Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585850
AFP mobilizes more troops, equipment for 'Yolanda' relief work
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): AFP mobilizes more troops, equipment for 'Yolanda' relief work
With the government mobilizing all available resources in order to repair the damage caused by super typhoon "Yolanda," the Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Tuesday it is deploying more troops and aerial assets to augment the ongoing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in Tacloban City, Leyte.
As this developed, Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP Public Affairs Office chief, said the military deployed additional five helicopters to augment the six already performing HADR operations in the area.
He added that the use of choppers inTacloban City
Zagala said that land assets are also on its way as 11 M-35 trucks left at 4 a.m. Tuesday from the Philippine Army Headquarters inFort
Bonifacio , Taguig
City en route to Tacloban
City to assist in the delivery of
relief goods to remote areas in Eastern Visayas .
Once they arrive in Tacloban, the trucks will be under the operational control of the AFP Central Command.
Meanwhile, the second batch of the Philippine Army’s 525th Engineering Combat Battalion, together with the 1st Special Forces Battalion, left Villamor Air Base,Pasay Tuesday morning to augment the
first batch of troops who left Manila
As of Monday, there were 300 combined military engineers and Special Forces troops conducting road clearing in Tacloban.
Zagala said the AFP is also allocating another 700 personnel to augment the troops.
The 523rd Engineer Construction Battalion from the Northern Luzon Command is also en route to the Central Command to aid existing troops in their HADR operations as well as to provide assistance in road clearing operations, support ongoing evacuations, and assist in efforts to restore peace and order in the area.
Two Navy boats, DF-341 and DF-352, on the other hand, delivered goods to the islands and coastal towns of Aklan and northernIloilo
Two logistical hubs in Panay were also established last Saturday -- one based in IloIlo City and the other in Roxas City -- conducting an average of three to four sorties by five helicopters in the areas of Capiz and northern Iloilo.
Moreover, troops from the 82nd Infantry Battalion and 61st Infantry Battalion with M-35 trucks are continuously conducting relief and rescue operations in Antique, northernIloIlo
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585919
With the government mobilizing all available resources in order to repair the damage caused by super typhoon "Yolanda," the Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Tuesday it is deploying more troops and aerial assets to augment the ongoing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in Tacloban City, Leyte.
As this developed, Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP Public Affairs Office chief, said the military deployed additional five helicopters to augment the six already performing HADR operations in the area.
He added that the use of choppers in
Zagala said that land assets are also on its way as 11 M-35 trucks left at 4 a.m. Tuesday from the Philippine Army Headquarters in
Once they arrive in Tacloban, the trucks will be under the operational control of the AFP Central Command.
Meanwhile, the second batch of the Philippine Army’s 525th Engineering Combat Battalion, together with the 1st Special Forces Battalion, left Villamor Air Base,
As of Monday, there were 300 combined military engineers and Special Forces troops conducting road clearing in Tacloban.
Zagala said the AFP is also allocating another 700 personnel to augment the troops.
The 523rd Engineer Construction Battalion from the Northern Luzon Command is also en route to the Central Command to aid existing troops in their HADR operations as well as to provide assistance in road clearing operations, support ongoing evacuations, and assist in efforts to restore peace and order in the area.
Two Navy boats, DF-341 and DF-352, on the other hand, delivered goods to the islands and coastal towns of Aklan and northern
Two logistical hubs in Panay were also established last Saturday -- one based in IloIlo City and the other in Roxas City -- conducting an average of three to four sorties by five helicopters in the areas of Capiz and northern Iloilo.
Moreover, troops from the 82nd Infantry Battalion and 61st Infantry Battalion with M-35 trucks are continuously conducting relief and rescue operations in Antique, northern
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585919
PA deploys WASAR, CSSR capable units to help in relief work in Tacloban City
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): PA deploys WASAR, CSSR capable units to help in relief work in Tacloban City
The Philippine Army (PA) on Tuesday has deployed water search-and-rescue (WASAR) and collapsed structure search-and-rescue (CSSR) capable teams to help other military units conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in "Yolanda" battered Tacloban City.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, PA deputy public affairs office chief, said these units include the 525th Engineering Combat Battalion, which is trained in WASAR and CSSR, was deployed to Tacloban to augment the Army forces conducting HADR operations.
Meanwhile, one company of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, is now enroute to Tacloban by land through Bicol, while one platoon of said battalion and elements of the 80th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division are still awaiting deployment.
The remaining batch of the 1st Special Forces Battalion is also ready to be deployed anytime.
On Nov. 10, the Philippine Army sent one medical team to the disaster-stricken city while another one is on its way.
Bacus added that two Squads from the Army’s Civil Military Operations Group (CMOG) will be deployed bringing with them loud speakers and communication electronics and information assets.
Army forces deployed in the typhoon-devastated areas are also geared to conduct rehabilitation operations in support to the local government and other agencies.
Help also continues to pour in for the victims of this massive disaster.
The consolidation and repacking of relief items are still ongoing at the Philippine Army Gym.
The Civil Military Operations Group, together with other groups and entities, was able to collect four boxes of blanket, 70 boxes of bed sheet and hundreds of sacks of assorted goods. These relief items will be distributed to the areas greatly affected by "Yolanda".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585922
The Philippine Army (PA) on Tuesday has deployed water search-and-rescue (WASAR) and collapsed structure search-and-rescue (CSSR) capable teams to help other military units conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in "Yolanda" battered Tacloban City.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, PA deputy public affairs office chief, said these units include the 525th Engineering Combat Battalion, which is trained in WASAR and CSSR, was deployed to Tacloban to augment the Army forces conducting HADR operations.
Meanwhile, one company of the 48th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, is now enroute to Tacloban by land through Bicol, while one platoon of said battalion and elements of the 80th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division are still awaiting deployment.
The remaining batch of the 1st Special Forces Battalion is also ready to be deployed anytime.
On Nov. 10, the Philippine Army sent one medical team to the disaster-stricken city while another one is on its way.
Bacus added that two Squads from the Army’s Civil Military Operations Group (CMOG) will be deployed bringing with them loud speakers and communication electronics and information assets.
Army forces deployed in the typhoon-devastated areas are also geared to conduct rehabilitation operations in support to the local government and other agencies.
Help also continues to pour in for the victims of this massive disaster.
The consolidation and repacking of relief items are still ongoing at the Philippine Army Gym.
The Civil Military Operations Group, together with other groups and entities, was able to collect four boxes of blanket, 70 boxes of bed sheet and hundreds of sacks of assorted goods. These relief items will be distributed to the areas greatly affected by "Yolanda".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585922
4th Infantry Division donates more than P400K to 'Yolanda' victims
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): 4th Infantry Division donates more than P400K to 'Yolanda' victims
The Cagayan De Oro-based 4th Infantry Division on Tuesday announced its donation of P459,590 and other relief items to victims of super typhoon "Yolanda" which badly battered a large part of the Visayas Region on Friday.
The money came from the troopers' subsistence allowance.
Enlisted personnel donated a day's worth while officers gave two days worth of subsistence allowance.
Capt. Christian Uy, 4th Infantry Division spokesperson, participated in this donation drive with the support of 4,520 enlisted personnel.
The money will be used to buy assorted goods to be distributed to the different areas ofCentral Visayas severely
affected by the typhoon.
The 4th Infantry Division also deployed a company-sized unit, around 100 troopers, to help in the ongoing relief work in the Visayas.
The troops are now consolidated at 4th Infantry Division headquarters in Cagayan De Oro waiting for the C-130 cargo plane that will transport them to the devastated areas in the Visayas Region.
Uy added that the 4th Infantry Division through its Civil Military Operations Battalion is also accepting donations from the locals who wish to donate goods.
This will be consolidated and hauled by the 4th Infantry Division to the affected communities in the Visayas.
“With the vast devastation left by typhoon 'Yolanda' in our country particularly in the Visayas, there are so many Filipinos who need our urgent help. This time, let us forget our differences. Instead, let the spirit of 'Bayanihan' be a beacon of hope for fast recovery work. I encourage everybody even the rebels who are hiding in the mountains to come down and help their love ones. They need not fear arrest. The Army is compassionate and always ready to extend help to all even to the enemies of the state. After the storm, let us join together in bringing back the sunshine to our countrymen,” 4th Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585930
The Cagayan De Oro-based 4th Infantry Division on Tuesday announced its donation of P459,590 and other relief items to victims of super typhoon "Yolanda" which badly battered a large part of the Visayas Region on Friday.
The money came from the troopers' subsistence allowance.
Enlisted personnel donated a day's worth while officers gave two days worth of subsistence allowance.
Capt. Christian Uy, 4th Infantry Division spokesperson, participated in this donation drive with the support of 4,520 enlisted personnel.
The money will be used to buy assorted goods to be distributed to the different areas of
The 4th Infantry Division also deployed a company-sized unit, around 100 troopers, to help in the ongoing relief work in the Visayas.
The troops are now consolidated at 4th Infantry Division headquarters in Cagayan De Oro waiting for the C-130 cargo plane that will transport them to the devastated areas in the Visayas Region.
Uy added that the 4th Infantry Division through its Civil Military Operations Battalion is also accepting donations from the locals who wish to donate goods.
This will be consolidated and hauled by the 4th Infantry Division to the affected communities in the Visayas.
“With the vast devastation left by typhoon 'Yolanda' in our country particularly in the Visayas, there are so many Filipinos who need our urgent help. This time, let us forget our differences. Instead, let the spirit of 'Bayanihan' be a beacon of hope for fast recovery work. I encourage everybody even the rebels who are hiding in the mountains to come down and help their love ones. They need not fear arrest. The Army is compassionate and always ready to extend help to all even to the enemies of the state. After the storm, let us join together in bringing back the sunshine to our countrymen,” 4th Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=585930
USAID donates US$ 20-M worth of assistance for 'Yolanda' victims
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): USAID donates US$ 20-M worth of assistance for 'Yolanda' victims
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing US$ 20 million worth of humanitarian assistance victims of super typhoon "Yolanda".
According to the USAID, these include the provision of emergency shelter, food assistance, relief commodities, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH
Nutritional bars will also be sent to ease the hunger felt by victims of typhoon, according to USAID mission director to thePhilippines
She said these nutritional bars in cans to feed about 20,000 children under 5 and 15,000 adults for a week.
Two to three nutritional bars are enough to provide a single person the calories needed for a day, Steele further said.
USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/OFDA), meanwhile, activated a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and correspondingWashington , D.C.-
USAID's DART team arrived inLeyte last
Monday to survey regions hardest hit by the super typhoon and reported that 90
percent of houses in some areas have been significantly damaged or destroyed.
The U.S. Government has made an initial US$ 100,000 available last Satuday (Nov. 9) following a formal request for international assistance by Philippine Government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=586024
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing US$ 20 million worth of humanitarian assistance victims of super typhoon "Yolanda".
According to the USAID, these include the provision of emergency shelter, food assistance, relief commodities, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (
Nutritional bars will also be sent to ease the hunger felt by victims of typhoon, according to USAID mission director to the
She said these nutritional bars in cans to feed about 20,000 children under 5 and 15,000 adults for a week.
Two to three nutritional bars are enough to provide a single person the calories needed for a day, Steele further said.
USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/OFDA), meanwhile, activated a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and corresponding
USAID's DART team arrived in
The U.S. Government has made an initial US$ 100,000 available last Satuday (Nov. 9) following a formal request for international assistance by Philippine Government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=586024
AFP Central Command troops secure San Juanico Bridge, Guian airport
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): AFP Central Command troops secure San Juanico Bridge, Guian airport
Troops from the Cebu City-based Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command (AFP-Centcom) have been deployed to secure two vital installations inTacloban City
and Eastern Samar .
Centcom chief Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda said they sent troops to secure the iconic San Juanico Bridge linking Samar andLeyte
following reports of looting in the area.
He said said it’s now safe to travel over the San Juanico Bridge inTacloban City
He said the public can report any untoward incidents to them or to the police.
Deveraturda said the airport in Guian,Eastern Samar
has also been secured, but he couldn’t say yet if the airport is safe for
operation.
He said they want the airport there to be operational so that the military C-130 planes can land for their relief operations inEastern
Samar .
He said they landed a helicopter at Guian airport, but their technical team composed of C-130 pilots is still assessing it for fixed-wing aircraft operation.
”I’m waiting for their feedback,” Deveraturda said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=585910
Troops from the Cebu City-based Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command (AFP-Centcom) have been deployed to secure two vital installations in
Centcom chief Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda said they sent troops to secure the iconic San Juanico Bridge linking Samar and
He said said it’s now safe to travel over the San Juanico Bridge in
He said the public can report any untoward incidents to them or to the police.
Deveraturda said the airport in Guian,
He said they want the airport there to be operational so that the military C-130 planes can land for their relief operations in
He said they landed a helicopter at Guian airport, but their technical team composed of C-130 pilots is still assessing it for fixed-wing aircraft operation.
”I’m waiting for their feedback,” Deveraturda said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=585910
Army’s 4th ID donates allowances, send troops to Visayas
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): Army’s 4th ID donates allowances, send troops to Visayas
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -– Military officials and enlisted personnel of the army’s 4th Infantry Division on Tuesday raised some P 459,590 for victims of typhoon Yolanda in severely affected regions in the Visayas.
Capt. Christian Uy, spokesperson of the army’s Public Affairs Division, said that the amount came from the voluntarily contributed one-day subsistence allowance of 4520 enlisted personnel and two day subsistence allowance of 293 officers here.
The amount collected would be used to buy assorted goods to be distributed to the different areas ofCentral Visayas
severely affected by the typhoon, Uy said.
Aside from the cash donations, Brig. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the army’s 4th ID, would also send a contingent of 100 troops equipped with tools for rehabilitation to typhoon-ravaged towns and city’s in theCentral
Visayas region.
Uy said that the company size army contingent has subsistence provisions for one month to sustain their rehabilitation operations wherever they will be deployed.
He said that the troops are now consolidated at the Headquarters 4th Infantry Division ready to be deployed once the C-130 cargo plane from the air force will be available to transport them.
The 4ID through its Civil Military Operations Battalion is also accepting donations from the locals who wish to donate goods for the affected communities in the Visayas, Uy added.
“With the vast devastation left by typhoon Yolanda in our country particularly in the Visayas, there are so many Filipinos who need our urgent help,” Visaya said.
Visaya also appealed to the communist New People’s Army (NPA) to “forget our differences and let the spirit of Bayanihan be a beacon of hope for fast recovery work.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=585939
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -– Military officials and enlisted personnel of the army’s 4th Infantry Division on Tuesday raised some P 459,590 for victims of typhoon Yolanda in severely affected regions in the Visayas.
Capt. Christian Uy, spokesperson of the army’s Public Affairs Division, said that the amount came from the voluntarily contributed one-day subsistence allowance of 4520 enlisted personnel and two day subsistence allowance of 293 officers here.
The amount collected would be used to buy assorted goods to be distributed to the different areas of
Aside from the cash donations, Brig. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the army’s 4th ID, would also send a contingent of 100 troops equipped with tools for rehabilitation to typhoon-ravaged towns and city’s in the
Uy said that the company size army contingent has subsistence provisions for one month to sustain their rehabilitation operations wherever they will be deployed.
He said that the troops are now consolidated at the Headquarters 4th Infantry Division ready to be deployed once the C-130 cargo plane from the air force will be available to transport them.
The 4ID through its Civil Military Operations Battalion is also accepting donations from the locals who wish to donate goods for the affected communities in the Visayas, Uy added.
“With the vast devastation left by typhoon Yolanda in our country particularly in the Visayas, there are so many Filipinos who need our urgent help,” Visaya said.
Visaya also appealed to the communist New People’s Army (NPA) to “forget our differences and let the spirit of Bayanihan be a beacon of hope for fast recovery work.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=585939
Judge enters not guilty plea for soldier in Jonas Burgos abduction
From Rappler (Nov 12): Judge enters not guilty plea for soldier in Jonas Burgos abduction
MOTION DENIED: Court denies Major Harry Baliaga's motion to defer his arraignment. Photo by Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler
Judge Alfonso Ruiz II of the Branch 216 of the Quezon City regional trial court entered a not guilty plea for Army Major Harry Baliaga in connection with charges he abducted activist Jonas Burgos in a mall in 2007.
"We did not enter a plea because of our motion. The court entered a plea of not guilty for the accused," Baliaga's uncle-turned-counsel Bumin Pasiwen told reporters after the scheduled arraignment on Tuesday, November 12.
Pasiwen made a verbal motion to defer the arraignment citing the pending motion for reconsideration they filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ). That motion is seeking dismissal of the case.
The pre-trial is scheduled on December 5.
Speaking to reporters, Baliaga maintained his innocence. "Wala naman talaga akong kinalaman diyan kaya kahit na saan man dalhin ito pupunta at pupunta ako. I did not do anything about this. Okay lang ako," Baliaga said. (I really have nothing to do with this that's why wherever this is brought, I will go... I'm okay.)
Witnesses tagged Baliaga as being behind the controversial abduction of Burgos on April 28, 2007. Burgos was taken from a restaurant in Ever Gotesco Mall in Quezon City. (READ: Court pins down army in Burgos case)
The court issued an arrest warrant and Baliaga posted a P40,000 bail in October. (READ: Officer accused in Burgos abduction posts bail)
Suspicious
Edita Burgos, the mother of Jonas, found Baliaga's refusal to enter a plea suspicious.
"By the very fact that he did not enter a plea then there is something there. He was positively identified by a witness," Edita said.
She also has a pending motion asking the DOJ to reconsider ruling on the exoneration of other military officers.
"I do not believe that this Major would do something that was not ordered by his superiors unless he has another reason for doing it. Personally, I don't think so," Edita said.
Baliaga was relieved from his post but remains an active officer of the Philippine Army. Soldiers facing charges are relieved from their posts and placed in a detached service, to a holding unit, so they are available in case they are called to court.
Baliaga faces charges for violating Article 124 of the Revised Penal Code for the "arbitrary detention and penalizing the detention of any person without legal grounds by any public officer or employee."
The military is fighting a 4-decade-old communist insurgency. It claims to have liberated most provinces from rebel influence.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/43496-judge-not-guilty-plea-jonas-burgos
MOTION DENIED: Court denies Major Harry Baliaga's motion to defer his arraignment. Photo by Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler
Judge Alfonso Ruiz II of the Branch 216 of the Quezon City regional trial court entered a not guilty plea for Army Major Harry Baliaga in connection with charges he abducted activist Jonas Burgos in a mall in 2007.
"We did not enter a plea because of our motion. The court entered a plea of not guilty for the accused," Baliaga's uncle-turned-counsel Bumin Pasiwen told reporters after the scheduled arraignment on Tuesday, November 12.
Pasiwen made a verbal motion to defer the arraignment citing the pending motion for reconsideration they filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ). That motion is seeking dismissal of the case.
The pre-trial is scheduled on December 5.
Speaking to reporters, Baliaga maintained his innocence. "Wala naman talaga akong kinalaman diyan kaya kahit na saan man dalhin ito pupunta at pupunta ako. I did not do anything about this. Okay lang ako," Baliaga said. (I really have nothing to do with this that's why wherever this is brought, I will go... I'm okay.)
Witnesses tagged Baliaga as being behind the controversial abduction of Burgos on April 28, 2007. Burgos was taken from a restaurant in Ever Gotesco Mall in Quezon City. (READ: Court pins down army in Burgos case)
The court issued an arrest warrant and Baliaga posted a P40,000 bail in October. (READ: Officer accused in Burgos abduction posts bail)
Suspicious
Edita Burgos, the mother of Jonas, found Baliaga's refusal to enter a plea suspicious.
"By the very fact that he did not enter a plea then there is something there. He was positively identified by a witness," Edita said.
She also has a pending motion asking the DOJ to reconsider ruling on the exoneration of other military officers.
"I do not believe that this Major would do something that was not ordered by his superiors unless he has another reason for doing it. Personally, I don't think so," Edita said.
Baliaga was relieved from his post but remains an active officer of the Philippine Army. Soldiers facing charges are relieved from their posts and placed in a detached service, to a holding unit, so they are available in case they are called to court.
Baliaga faces charges for violating Article 124 of the Revised Penal Code for the "arbitrary detention and penalizing the detention of any person without legal grounds by any public officer or employee."
The military is fighting a 4-decade-old communist insurgency. It claims to have liberated most provinces from rebel influence.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/43496-judge-not-guilty-plea-jonas-burgos
2 NPA rebels killed in Yolanda looting
From Rappler (Nov 12): 2 NPA rebels killed in Yolanda looting
Philippine troops killed two armed Leftist insurgents who attacked an aid convoy en route to this typhoon-devastated city on Tuesday, November 12, the military said, as soldiers were deployed to quell looting by hungry survivors.
The two insurgents were killed, and another was wounded, in Matnog town in Sorsogon, where the convoy was passing through.
Bodies still littered the streets of Tacloban City, where the United Nations fears 10,000 people could have died when the category-five Haiyan(Yolanda in the Philippines) struck on Friday.
Thousands of people whose homes were destroyed by one of the most powerful typhoons on record were spending yet another day in misery as troops established checkpoints to try to restore order and allow much-needed aid to percolate through.
Some of that aid fell victim to one of the Philippines' long-running insurgencies when 15 communist rebels ambushed trucks on their way to the storm-wracked region, a local commander told Agence France-Presse.
"There were no casualties on the government side," Lieutenant Colonel Joselito Kakilala said, adding that two members of the New People's Army, the militant wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were killed and another wounded in the clash in Matnog town, some 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Tacloban.
In the city itself, a curfew was in force as armored vehicles and elite security forces patrolled streets where famished survivors had raided stores and ransacked other aid convoys.
Hundreds of soldiers and police were in evidence around the city, the capital of the provincial island of Leyte, which bore the brunt of Haiyan, one of the strongest storms on record.
Tacloban – a city of 220,000 residents – has been the scene of the worst pillaging. Survivors reported gangs stealing consumer goods including televisions and washing machines from small businesses.
Chief Superintendent Carmelo Valmoria told Agence France-Presse that 500 of his Special Action Forces troops were in place.
"When we arrived here, there was looting everywhere in the city. We have come to restore order and ensure the public safety," Valmoria said.
"We have been conducting checkpoints around the city everywhere and every night to prevent those who have no business [here] from coming in."
Valmoria said his troops had been confiscating knives and were urgently looking for guns that had been stolen from a firearms store.
Earlier Tuesday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas said 4 Simba armored personnel carriers had been dispatched to Tacloban.
"We are circulating them in the city to show the people, especially those with bad intentions, that the authorities have returned," Roxas told DZMM radio, adding checkpoints were being used to prevent people mobbing relief trucks.
Super Typhoon Yolanda (international codename: Haiyan) flattened buildings and knocked out electricity and water supplies as tsunami-like waves and brutal winds tore across large swathes of the of the archipelago, leaving desperate survivors with virtually nothing.
Some have resorted to theft, with a charity saying that in one case a man with a machete tried to rob aid workers who were receiving a delivery of medicine.
Cops and soldiers vs roving gangs
"The presence of policemen, military and government forces will definitely improve things (but) it will not be overnight," Roxas said, confirming reports that the Tacloban city government had imposed a curfew from 10 pm (1400 GMT) to 6 am.
"It is a tool that we are using to minimise the looting and break-ins. We know some people cannot return home [during curfew] because their homes were washed away, but it is more effective against roving gangs who are looking for targets of opportunity," he said.
It is not clear where newly homeless residents are meant to go during this period.
Agence France-Presse journalists in Tacloban described the city as a "ghost town," with bodies still lying on the streets four days after the typhoon hit and those shops that were not destroyed boarded up.
Piles of debris, including wrecked homes and toppled trees, meant little food and medicine got through to survivors in the early days.
"That is why they were desperate and hungry," hotel owner Kenneth Uy said, describing the immediate aftermath of the storm as "a descent into chaos."
Police have said that some local councillors led the looting of shops to provide food to constituents.
Roxas added that the public works department had cleared at least one lane of a highway entering the city, which would speed up entry of supplies.
He said the government's three main priorities were to restore peace and order, bring in relief goods and start collecting dead bodies.
"Now that we have achieved number one and two, the priority is the recovery of the cadavers," he said.
http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/issues/disasters/typhoon-yolanda/43541-yolanda-rebels-killed-in-looting
Philippine troops killed two armed Leftist insurgents who attacked an aid convoy en route to this typhoon-devastated city on Tuesday, November 12, the military said, as soldiers were deployed to quell looting by hungry survivors.
The two insurgents were killed, and another was wounded, in Matnog town in Sorsogon, where the convoy was passing through.
Bodies still littered the streets of Tacloban City, where the United Nations fears 10,000 people could have died when the category-five Haiyan(Yolanda in the Philippines) struck on Friday.
Thousands of people whose homes were destroyed by one of the most powerful typhoons on record were spending yet another day in misery as troops established checkpoints to try to restore order and allow much-needed aid to percolate through.
Some of that aid fell victim to one of the Philippines' long-running insurgencies when 15 communist rebels ambushed trucks on their way to the storm-wracked region, a local commander told Agence France-Presse.
"There were no casualties on the government side," Lieutenant Colonel Joselito Kakilala said, adding that two members of the New People's Army, the militant wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were killed and another wounded in the clash in Matnog town, some 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Tacloban.
In the city itself, a curfew was in force as armored vehicles and elite security forces patrolled streets where famished survivors had raided stores and ransacked other aid convoys.
Hundreds of soldiers and police were in evidence around the city, the capital of the provincial island of Leyte, which bore the brunt of Haiyan, one of the strongest storms on record.
Tacloban – a city of 220,000 residents – has been the scene of the worst pillaging. Survivors reported gangs stealing consumer goods including televisions and washing machines from small businesses.
Chief Superintendent Carmelo Valmoria told Agence France-Presse that 500 of his Special Action Forces troops were in place.
"When we arrived here, there was looting everywhere in the city. We have come to restore order and ensure the public safety," Valmoria said.
"We have been conducting checkpoints around the city everywhere and every night to prevent those who have no business [here] from coming in."
Valmoria said his troops had been confiscating knives and were urgently looking for guns that had been stolen from a firearms store.
Earlier Tuesday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas said 4 Simba armored personnel carriers had been dispatched to Tacloban.
"We are circulating them in the city to show the people, especially those with bad intentions, that the authorities have returned," Roxas told DZMM radio, adding checkpoints were being used to prevent people mobbing relief trucks.
Super Typhoon Yolanda (international codename: Haiyan) flattened buildings and knocked out electricity and water supplies as tsunami-like waves and brutal winds tore across large swathes of the of the archipelago, leaving desperate survivors with virtually nothing.
Some have resorted to theft, with a charity saying that in one case a man with a machete tried to rob aid workers who were receiving a delivery of medicine.
Cops and soldiers vs roving gangs
"The presence of policemen, military and government forces will definitely improve things (but) it will not be overnight," Roxas said, confirming reports that the Tacloban city government had imposed a curfew from 10 pm (1400 GMT) to 6 am.
"It is a tool that we are using to minimise the looting and break-ins. We know some people cannot return home [during curfew] because their homes were washed away, but it is more effective against roving gangs who are looking for targets of opportunity," he said.
It is not clear where newly homeless residents are meant to go during this period.
Agence France-Presse journalists in Tacloban described the city as a "ghost town," with bodies still lying on the streets four days after the typhoon hit and those shops that were not destroyed boarded up.
Piles of debris, including wrecked homes and toppled trees, meant little food and medicine got through to survivors in the early days.
"That is why they were desperate and hungry," hotel owner Kenneth Uy said, describing the immediate aftermath of the storm as "a descent into chaos."
Police have said that some local councillors led the looting of shops to provide food to constituents.
Roxas added that the public works department had cleared at least one lane of a highway entering the city, which would speed up entry of supplies.
He said the government's three main priorities were to restore peace and order, bring in relief goods and start collecting dead bodies.
"Now that we have achieved number one and two, the priority is the recovery of the cadavers," he said.
http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/issues/disasters/typhoon-yolanda/43541-yolanda-rebels-killed-in-looting
Two killed as Yolanda relief convoy ambushed enroute to Tacloban; military blames NPA
From InterAksyon (Nov 12): Two killed as Yolanda relief convoy ambushed enroute to Tacloban; military blames NPA
Soldiers killed two armed insurgents who attacked an aid convoy en route to typhoon-devastated Tacloban on Tuesday, the military said, as soldiers were deployed to quell looting by hungry survivors.
Bodies still littered the streets of the city, where the United Nations fears 10,000 people could have died when the category-five Haiyan struck on Friday.
Thousands of people whose homes were destroyed by one of the most powerful typhoons on record were spending yet another day in misery as troops established checkpoints to try to restore order and allow much-needed aid to percolate through.
Some of that aid fell victim to one of the Philippines' long-running insurgencies when 15 communist rebels ambushed trucks on their way to the storm-wracked region, a local commander told AFP.
"There were no casualties on the government side," Lieutenant Colonel Joselito Kakilala said, adding that two members of the New People's Army, the militant wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were killed and another wounded in the clash in Matnog town, some 240 kilometres (150 miles) from Tacloban.
In the city itself, a curfew was in force as armoured vehicles and elite security forces patrolled streets where famished survivors had raided stores and ransacked other aid convoys.
Hundreds of soldiers and police were in evidence around the city, the capital of the provincial island of Leyte, which bore the brunt of Haiyan, one of the strongest storms on record.
Tacloban -- a city of 220,000 residents -- has been the scene of the worst pillaging. Survivors reported gangs stealing consumer goods including televisions and washing machines from small businesses.
Chief Superintendent Carmelo Valmoria told AFP that 500 of his Special Action Forces troops were in place.
"When we arrived here, there was looting everywhere in the city. We have come to restore order and ensure the public safety," Valmoria said.
"We have been conducting checkpoints around the city everywhere and every night to prevent those who have no business (here) from coming in."
Valmoria said his troops had been confiscating knives and were urgently looking for guns that had been stolen from a firearms store.
Earlier Tuesday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas said four Simba armoured personnel carriers had been dispatched to Tacloban.
"We are circulating them in the city to show the people, especially those with bad intentions, that the authorities have returned," Roxas told DZMM radio, adding checkpoints were being used to prevent people mobbing relief trucks.
Super Typhoon Haiyan flattened buildings and knocked out electricity and water supplies as tsunami-like waves and brutal winds tore across large swathes of the of the archipelago, leaving desperate survivors with virtually nothing.
Some have resorted to theft, with a charity saying that in one case a man with a machete tried to rob aid workers who were receiving a delivery of medicine.
"The presence of policemen, military and government forces will definitely improve things (but) it will not be overnight," Roxas said, confirming reports that the Tacloban city government had imposed a curfew from 10:00 pm (1400 GMT) to 6:00 am.
"It is a tool that we are using to minimise the looting and break-ins. We know some people cannot return home (during curfew) because their homes were washed away, but it is more effective against roving gangs who are looking for targets of opportunity," he said.
It is not clear where newly homeless residents are meant to go during this period.
AFP journalists in Tacloban described the city as a "ghost town", with bodies still lying on the streets four days after the typhoon hit and those shops that were not destroyed boarded up.
Piles of debris, including wrecked homes and toppled trees, meant little food and medicine got through to survivors in the early days.
"That is why they were desperate and hungry", hotel owner Kenneth Uy said, describing the immediate aftermath of the storm as "a descent into chaos".
Police have said that some local councillors led the looting of shops to provide food to constituents.
Roxas added that the public works department had cleared at least one lane of a highway entering the city, which would speed up entry of supplies.
He said the government's three main priorities were to restore peace and order, bring in relief goods and start collecting dead bodies.
"Now that we have achieved number one and two, the priority is the recovery of the cadavers," he said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/74666/two-killed-as-yolanda-relief-convoy-ambushed-enroute-to-tacloban-military-blames-npa
Soldiers killed two armed insurgents who attacked an aid convoy en route to typhoon-devastated Tacloban on Tuesday, the military said, as soldiers were deployed to quell looting by hungry survivors.
Bodies still littered the streets of the city, where the United Nations fears 10,000 people could have died when the category-five Haiyan struck on Friday.
Thousands of people whose homes were destroyed by one of the most powerful typhoons on record were spending yet another day in misery as troops established checkpoints to try to restore order and allow much-needed aid to percolate through.
Some of that aid fell victim to one of the Philippines' long-running insurgencies when 15 communist rebels ambushed trucks on their way to the storm-wracked region, a local commander told AFP.
"There were no casualties on the government side," Lieutenant Colonel Joselito Kakilala said, adding that two members of the New People's Army, the militant wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were killed and another wounded in the clash in Matnog town, some 240 kilometres (150 miles) from Tacloban.
In the city itself, a curfew was in force as armoured vehicles and elite security forces patrolled streets where famished survivors had raided stores and ransacked other aid convoys.
Hundreds of soldiers and police were in evidence around the city, the capital of the provincial island of Leyte, which bore the brunt of Haiyan, one of the strongest storms on record.
Tacloban -- a city of 220,000 residents -- has been the scene of the worst pillaging. Survivors reported gangs stealing consumer goods including televisions and washing machines from small businesses.
Chief Superintendent Carmelo Valmoria told AFP that 500 of his Special Action Forces troops were in place.
"When we arrived here, there was looting everywhere in the city. We have come to restore order and ensure the public safety," Valmoria said.
"We have been conducting checkpoints around the city everywhere and every night to prevent those who have no business (here) from coming in."
Valmoria said his troops had been confiscating knives and were urgently looking for guns that had been stolen from a firearms store.
Earlier Tuesday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas said four Simba armoured personnel carriers had been dispatched to Tacloban.
"We are circulating them in the city to show the people, especially those with bad intentions, that the authorities have returned," Roxas told DZMM radio, adding checkpoints were being used to prevent people mobbing relief trucks.
Super Typhoon Haiyan flattened buildings and knocked out electricity and water supplies as tsunami-like waves and brutal winds tore across large swathes of the of the archipelago, leaving desperate survivors with virtually nothing.
Some have resorted to theft, with a charity saying that in one case a man with a machete tried to rob aid workers who were receiving a delivery of medicine.
"The presence of policemen, military and government forces will definitely improve things (but) it will not be overnight," Roxas said, confirming reports that the Tacloban city government had imposed a curfew from 10:00 pm (1400 GMT) to 6:00 am.
"It is a tool that we are using to minimise the looting and break-ins. We know some people cannot return home (during curfew) because their homes were washed away, but it is more effective against roving gangs who are looking for targets of opportunity," he said.
It is not clear where newly homeless residents are meant to go during this period.
AFP journalists in Tacloban described the city as a "ghost town", with bodies still lying on the streets four days after the typhoon hit and those shops that were not destroyed boarded up.
Piles of debris, including wrecked homes and toppled trees, meant little food and medicine got through to survivors in the early days.
"That is why they were desperate and hungry", hotel owner Kenneth Uy said, describing the immediate aftermath of the storm as "a descent into chaos".
Police have said that some local councillors led the looting of shops to provide food to constituents.
Roxas added that the public works department had cleared at least one lane of a highway entering the city, which would speed up entry of supplies.
He said the government's three main priorities were to restore peace and order, bring in relief goods and start collecting dead bodies.
"Now that we have achieved number one and two, the priority is the recovery of the cadavers," he said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/74666/two-killed-as-yolanda-relief-convoy-ambushed-enroute-to-tacloban-military-blames-npa