From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 10): PMA cadets cheer up orphans, abandoned children
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadets played big brother to less fortunate children at the Bethesda Children’s Home in barangay Tuding, this town.
The PMA ‘Salaknib’ Class of 2017 composed of 189 male and female cadets hosted the annual Christmas party of the children’s home which houses more than a hundred orphan and abandoned children and young adults.
The cadets spent the day interacting, sharing their meals and playing several games the children and the youth of the center.
They also donated ten desks and three blackboards, used books and clothings.
Major Agnes Lynnette Flores, PMA Public Affairs Office Chief, said that the Bethesda Children’s Home was one of the recommended grounds for the cadets’ early exposure.
“We believe that the activity will help the cadets find meaning and significance in their yuletide celebrations even though they are away from their families,” said Flores.
She said the immersion of the cadets for even just a few hours in the Bethesda Children’s Home will help them be ready in playing different roles in the future.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=41389286596
Friday, January 10, 2014
'GROSS VIOLATION OF INTERNATIONAL LAW' | Manila blasts Beijing on new South China Sea regulations
From InterAksyon (Jan 10): 'GROSS VIOLATION OF INTERNATIONAL LAW' | Manila blasts Beijing on new South China Sea regulations
The Philippines denounced Friday a new Chinese law that Manila says compels foreign vessels to seek a permit from Chinese regional authorities for activities in large areas of the South China Sea, including portions referred to by Manila as the West Philippine Sea.
"We have requested China to immediately clarify the new fisheries law issued by the Hainan Provincial People's Congress," the Filipino foreign department said in a statement.
"We are gravely concerned by this new regulation that would require foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval from Chinese regional authorities before fishing or surveying in a large portion of the South China Sea."
Press reports said the law was passed last year and took effect on January 1.
China claims almost all the South China Sea but the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims.
Tensions between the Philippines and China have risen in recent years as Beijing becomes more aggressive in asserting its claims.
Earlier this year Manila took Beijing to a United Nations tribunal over the contested Scarborough Shoal, which has been controlled by Chinese government vessels since last year.
"This new law reinforces China's expansive claim under the 9-dash line," the Philippine foreign department alleged Friday, referring to China's delineation of the extent of its maritime territorial claim.
"It is a gross violation of international law," the statement added.
"This development escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea, and threatens the peace and stability of the region."
The statement said the Philippines was not the only country to be affected by the new Hainan regulations.
"These regulations seriously violate the freedom of navigation and the right to fish of all states in the high seas, as provided for under UNCLOS (the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea)," it said.
"Under customary international law, no state can subject the high seas to its sovereignty."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/78426/gross-violation-of-international-law--manila-blasts-beijing-on-new-south-china-sea-regulations
The Philippines denounced Friday a new Chinese law that Manila says compels foreign vessels to seek a permit from Chinese regional authorities for activities in large areas of the South China Sea, including portions referred to by Manila as the West Philippine Sea.
"We have requested China to immediately clarify the new fisheries law issued by the Hainan Provincial People's Congress," the Filipino foreign department said in a statement.
"We are gravely concerned by this new regulation that would require foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval from Chinese regional authorities before fishing or surveying in a large portion of the South China Sea."
Press reports said the law was passed last year and took effect on January 1.
China claims almost all the South China Sea but the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims.
Tensions between the Philippines and China have risen in recent years as Beijing becomes more aggressive in asserting its claims.
Earlier this year Manila took Beijing to a United Nations tribunal over the contested Scarborough Shoal, which has been controlled by Chinese government vessels since last year.
"This new law reinforces China's expansive claim under the 9-dash line," the Philippine foreign department alleged Friday, referring to China's delineation of the extent of its maritime territorial claim.
"It is a gross violation of international law," the statement added.
"This development escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea, and threatens the peace and stability of the region."
The statement said the Philippines was not the only country to be affected by the new Hainan regulations.
"These regulations seriously violate the freedom of navigation and the right to fish of all states in the high seas, as provided for under UNCLOS (the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea)," it said.
"Under customary international law, no state can subject the high seas to its sovereignty."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/78426/gross-violation-of-international-law--manila-blasts-beijing-on-new-south-china-sea-regulations
Group urges PNoy gov't to address spate of teacher kidnappings in Mindanao
From InterAksyon (Jan 10): Group urges PNoy gov't to address spate of teacher kidnappings in Mindanao
An educators' group is urging the government to address the spate of kidnapping incidents in Southern Mindanao victimizing teachers.
According to Benjo Basas, national chairperson of Teachers' Dignity Coalition, the unabated kidnapping has traumatized teachers especially those assigned in remote areas, with some of them already afraid to report for work.
“The bandits are back to their kidnapping business in Zamboanga Peninsula," Basas said.
The coalition said that on December 18, days before Christmas, a group of armed men abducted 23-year-old Cathy Mae Casipong, a teacher in Sibugtoc Elementary School in Zamboanga City.
"Teacher Cathy remains in the hands of her kidnappers,” Basas said.
Earlier, three more teachers from the city's Landang Gua Elementary School were also kidnapped by bandits, according to Basas. They are Freires Quizon, Janette de los Reyes, and Rafael Mayonado, who were abducted on January 23, 2009 on Siacol Island.
Kidnappers freed the victims on May 27 of the same year after the teachers' families reportedly gave an undetermined amount to cover for the "board and lodging" of the hostages.
The incident was followed by the March 13, 2009 abduction of three more teachers from Bangkaw-bangkaw Elementary School in Zamboanga Sibugay by suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
Noemi Mandi, Jocelyn Inion and Jocelyn Enriquez were released on September 23, 2009 after their relatives also reportedly gave the ASG undetermined amount to cover for the victims' board and lodging.
On October 19, 2009, the ASG also abducted Gabriel Canizares, principal of Kanague Elementary School in Sulu.
Canizares was killed by his abductors after the victim's family reportedly failed to pay ransom to the ASG. His headless body was found on November 9, 2009 at a vacant lot in Jolo town.
Last month, Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II met with the Provincial Peace and Order Council of Sulu to discuss the spate of kidnappings in Basilan.
According to Gazmin, there were at least 17 kidnap victims still in the hands of the ASG in Sulu alone.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/78453/group-urges-pnoy-govt-to-address-spate-of-teacher-kidnappings-in-mindanao
An educators' group is urging the government to address the spate of kidnapping incidents in Southern Mindanao victimizing teachers.
According to Benjo Basas, national chairperson of Teachers' Dignity Coalition, the unabated kidnapping has traumatized teachers especially those assigned in remote areas, with some of them already afraid to report for work.
“The bandits are back to their kidnapping business in Zamboanga Peninsula," Basas said.
The coalition said that on December 18, days before Christmas, a group of armed men abducted 23-year-old Cathy Mae Casipong, a teacher in Sibugtoc Elementary School in Zamboanga City.
"Teacher Cathy remains in the hands of her kidnappers,” Basas said.
Earlier, three more teachers from the city's Landang Gua Elementary School were also kidnapped by bandits, according to Basas. They are Freires Quizon, Janette de los Reyes, and Rafael Mayonado, who were abducted on January 23, 2009 on Siacol Island.
Kidnappers freed the victims on May 27 of the same year after the teachers' families reportedly gave an undetermined amount to cover for the "board and lodging" of the hostages.
The incident was followed by the March 13, 2009 abduction of three more teachers from Bangkaw-bangkaw Elementary School in Zamboanga Sibugay by suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
Noemi Mandi, Jocelyn Inion and Jocelyn Enriquez were released on September 23, 2009 after their relatives also reportedly gave the ASG undetermined amount to cover for the victims' board and lodging.
On October 19, 2009, the ASG also abducted Gabriel Canizares, principal of Kanague Elementary School in Sulu.
Canizares was killed by his abductors after the victim's family reportedly failed to pay ransom to the ASG. His headless body was found on November 9, 2009 at a vacant lot in Jolo town.
Last month, Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II met with the Provincial Peace and Order Council of Sulu to discuss the spate of kidnappings in Basilan.
According to Gazmin, there were at least 17 kidnap victims still in the hands of the ASG in Sulu alone.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/78453/group-urges-pnoy-govt-to-address-spate-of-teacher-kidnappings-in-mindanao
Possible revival of PHL-NDFP talks still under consultation – Deles
From GMA News (Jan 10): Possible revival of PHL-NDFP talks still under consultation – Deles
The planned revival of peace negotiations between the government and the communist-led National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) is still under consultation, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles said Friday.
In his meeting with Norwegian Foreign Minister Børge Brende in Manila, President Benigno Aquino III sought the help of Norway in the planned revival of the talks, to which the foreign country responded by committing to continue as facilitator between the two parties.
But Deles told GMA News Online that they will still have to discuss the situation with the Norwegians to “avoid restarting talks that will again quickly break down and go nowhere.”
“We will continue to consult with our Norwegian facilitators and local stakeholders to ensure a common understanding of the parameters of peace negotiations that will make a felt difference in the lives of our people especially in the most affected areas,” she said.
“We want to resume talks on the basis of a doable and time-bound agenda,” she added without elaborating on the matter.
Government and NDFP panels last met in Norway in February 2011 but failed to reach an agreement on issues, particularly on the collection of “revolutionary tax” and the release of some of detained New People's Army (NPA) commanders.
The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), which has been pursuing one of Asia's longest-running insurgencies, spanning more than four decades.
In April last year, the government ended its peace negotiations with the NDFP after a 22-month impasse, citing the lack of “sincerity and political will” on the part of the party and its affiliate groups.
NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni said it was the Aquino administration, and not NDFP, which “dimmed” the prospects of peace due to the government's supposed refusal to hold its end up on agreements signed by both parties decades ago.
Last month, the CPP said in a statement on its 45th founding anniversary that it will no longer engage in formal talks with the Aquino administration, citing the “proven unwillingness of the Aquino regime to negotiate a just peace.”
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/343250/news/nation/possible-revival-of-phl-ndfp-talks-still-under-consultation-deles
The planned revival of peace negotiations between the government and the communist-led National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) is still under consultation, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles said Friday.
In his meeting with Norwegian Foreign Minister Børge Brende in Manila, President Benigno Aquino III sought the help of Norway in the planned revival of the talks, to which the foreign country responded by committing to continue as facilitator between the two parties.
But Deles told GMA News Online that they will still have to discuss the situation with the Norwegians to “avoid restarting talks that will again quickly break down and go nowhere.”
“We will continue to consult with our Norwegian facilitators and local stakeholders to ensure a common understanding of the parameters of peace negotiations that will make a felt difference in the lives of our people especially in the most affected areas,” she said.
“We want to resume talks on the basis of a doable and time-bound agenda,” she added without elaborating on the matter.
Government and NDFP panels last met in Norway in February 2011 but failed to reach an agreement on issues, particularly on the collection of “revolutionary tax” and the release of some of detained New People's Army (NPA) commanders.
The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), which has been pursuing one of Asia's longest-running insurgencies, spanning more than four decades.
In April last year, the government ended its peace negotiations with the NDFP after a 22-month impasse, citing the lack of “sincerity and political will” on the part of the party and its affiliate groups.
NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni said it was the Aquino administration, and not NDFP, which “dimmed” the prospects of peace due to the government's supposed refusal to hold its end up on agreements signed by both parties decades ago.
Last month, the CPP said in a statement on its 45th founding anniversary that it will no longer engage in formal talks with the Aquino administration, citing the “proven unwillingness of the Aquino regime to negotiate a just peace.”
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/343250/news/nation/possible-revival-of-phl-ndfp-talks-still-under-consultation-deles
‘Misuari hiding in Sulu’
From the Philippine Star (Jan 11): ‘Misuari hiding in Sulu’
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder and chairman Nur Misuari has not left the country and is just hiding in Sulu, the commander of the military’s Western Mindanao Command said yesterday.
Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero said there have been “persistent reports” that Misuari is still in Sulu, adding that government forces in the island province continue to locate him.
Misuari has a standing arrest warrant for rebellion and violation of the international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity in connection with the Zamboanga City siege staged by his followers that displaced more than 120,000 civilians, left nearly 200 people dead, and scores wounded.
About 300 arrested followers of Misuari, who are facing similar charges, were transferred to Camp Bagong Diwa Taguig City recently, amid reports of a supposed plan by their comrades to “rescue” them.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/01/11/1277386/misuari-hiding-sulu
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder and chairman Nur Misuari has not left the country and is just hiding in Sulu, the commander of the military’s Western Mindanao Command said yesterday.
Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero said there have been “persistent reports” that Misuari is still in Sulu, adding that government forces in the island province continue to locate him.
Misuari has a standing arrest warrant for rebellion and violation of the international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity in connection with the Zamboanga City siege staged by his followers that displaced more than 120,000 civilians, left nearly 200 people dead, and scores wounded.
About 300 arrested followers of Misuari, who are facing similar charges, were transferred to Camp Bagong Diwa Taguig City recently, amid reports of a supposed plan by their comrades to “rescue” them.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/01/11/1277386/misuari-hiding-sulu
US slams China sea law
From the Philippine Star (Jan 10): US slams China sea law
The United States said on Thursday that new Chinese fishing restrictions in disputed waters in the South China Sea were “provocative and potentially dangerous,” as disquiet grew in Southeast Asia over the rules.
The legislature of China’s Hainan province approved rules in November that took effect on Jan. 1 requiring foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval to enter waters under its jurisdiction.
Such a move, if broadly enforced, could worsen tensions in the region. Beijing claims almost the entire oil- and gas-rich South China Sea, rejecting rival claims to parts of it from the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei and Vietnam.
The fishing rules add another irritant to Sino-US ties, after China’s recent announcement of an air defense identification zone in the East China Sea drew sharp criticism from Washington.
“The passing of these restrictions on other countries’ fishing activities in disputed portions of the South China Sea is a provocative and potentially dangerous act,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a news briefing.
“China has not offered any explanation or basis under international law for these extensive maritime claims.
“Our long-standing position has been that all concerned parties should avoid any unilateral action that raises tensions and undermines the prospects for a diplomatic or other peaceful resolution of differences.”
Fishermen from Vietnam and the Philippines have been caught up in heated territorial disputes with China on the seas in recent years. Last year, Vietnam accused China of opening fire on a fishing boat in the South China Sea, and later of endangering the lives of fishermen after ramming a fishing trawler.
China created the air defense zone in late November in an area that includes islands at the heart of a bitter territorial dispute with Japan.
The United States responded to that declaration by sending two B-52 bombers into the area without informing China. At the same time, it advised US commercial carriers to operate in line with so-called notices to aviators issued by foreign countries.
The State Department spokeswoman gave no indication of any possible US response to the fishing zone.
Hainan home to big naval base
According to the website of the Hainan legislature, foreign fishing vessels need approval to enter from the “relevant and responsible department” of the Chinese government’s Cabinet.
Hainan is responsible for administering the country’s extensive claims to the myriad islets and atolls in the South China Sea.
It says it governs 2 million square km (770,000 square miles) of water, according to local government data issued in 2011. The South China Sea is an estimated 3.5 million square km (1.4 million square miles) in size.
The province is also home to Chinese naval facilities that include a purpose-built dock for the country’s only aircraft carrier as well as a base for attack submarines.
The fishing rules do not outline penalties, but the requirements are similar to a 2004 national law that says boats entering Chinese territory without permission can have their catch and fishing equipment seized and face fines of up to 500,000 yuan ($82,600).
Vietnam reiterated its claim to sovereignty over the Paracel and Spratlys islands in the South China Sea, both also claimed by Beijing.
“All foreign activities at these areas without Vietnam’s acceptance are illegal and groundless,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Luong Thanh Nghi said in a written response to questions about the new fishing rules.
A government-affiliated fishing organization, the Vietnam Fisheries Society, condemned the Hainan regulations.
“This action from China will directly affect Vietnamese fishermen, damage their work, their livelihoods and impact their families,” said Vo Van Trac, vice chairman of the body.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Department spokesman Raul Hernandez said Manila had asked its embassy in Beijing to get more information on the rules.
Hainan officials were not immediately available to comment, but Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said regulating the use of China’s marine resources was a normal practice.
China defends fisheries law
China defended yesterday a fisheries law issued by Hainan Province restricting fishing by foreign vessels in disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), saying the regulation is not really new.
The Chinese embassy in Manila said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made comments on the law after the new reg- ulation was criticized and explained that the current version is already the second amendment of the measure adopted in 1993. China downplayed criti- cisms by justifying the mea- sure is necessary for China as a coastal state.
Hua said it is a regular and routine practice that coastal provinces formulate local regulations in accordance with national laws to pre- serve, use and manage fishery resources.
“The measure has been ad- opted in 1993 and was amended in 2008 for the first time. The current version is the second amendment, which aims to strengthen efforts to protect, reproduce, explore and ratio- nally utilize fishery resources, to safeguard the legitimate rights of fishermen, ensure quality and safety of aquatic products, promote sustainable develop- ment of fishery industry, and to protect fishery resources and eco-environment,“ Hua said.
China challenged “anyone having interest in it.”
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/11/1277500/us-slams-china-sea-law
The United States said on Thursday that new Chinese fishing restrictions in disputed waters in the South China Sea were “provocative and potentially dangerous,” as disquiet grew in Southeast Asia over the rules.
The legislature of China’s Hainan province approved rules in November that took effect on Jan. 1 requiring foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval to enter waters under its jurisdiction.
Such a move, if broadly enforced, could worsen tensions in the region. Beijing claims almost the entire oil- and gas-rich South China Sea, rejecting rival claims to parts of it from the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei and Vietnam.
The fishing rules add another irritant to Sino-US ties, after China’s recent announcement of an air defense identification zone in the East China Sea drew sharp criticism from Washington.
“The passing of these restrictions on other countries’ fishing activities in disputed portions of the South China Sea is a provocative and potentially dangerous act,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a news briefing.
“China has not offered any explanation or basis under international law for these extensive maritime claims.
“Our long-standing position has been that all concerned parties should avoid any unilateral action that raises tensions and undermines the prospects for a diplomatic or other peaceful resolution of differences.”
Fishermen from Vietnam and the Philippines have been caught up in heated territorial disputes with China on the seas in recent years. Last year, Vietnam accused China of opening fire on a fishing boat in the South China Sea, and later of endangering the lives of fishermen after ramming a fishing trawler.
China created the air defense zone in late November in an area that includes islands at the heart of a bitter territorial dispute with Japan.
The United States responded to that declaration by sending two B-52 bombers into the area without informing China. At the same time, it advised US commercial carriers to operate in line with so-called notices to aviators issued by foreign countries.
The State Department spokeswoman gave no indication of any possible US response to the fishing zone.
Hainan home to big naval base
Hainan is responsible for administering the country’s extensive claims to the myriad islets and atolls in the South China Sea.
It says it governs 2 million square km (770,000 square miles) of water, according to local government data issued in 2011. The South China Sea is an estimated 3.5 million square km (1.4 million square miles) in size.
The province is also home to Chinese naval facilities that include a purpose-built dock for the country’s only aircraft carrier as well as a base for attack submarines.
The fishing rules do not outline penalties, but the requirements are similar to a 2004 national law that says boats entering Chinese territory without permission can have their catch and fishing equipment seized and face fines of up to 500,000 yuan ($82,600).
Vietnam reiterated its claim to sovereignty over the Paracel and Spratlys islands in the South China Sea, both also claimed by Beijing.
“All foreign activities at these areas without Vietnam’s acceptance are illegal and groundless,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Luong Thanh Nghi said in a written response to questions about the new fishing rules.
A government-affiliated fishing organization, the Vietnam Fisheries Society, condemned the Hainan regulations.
“This action from China will directly affect Vietnamese fishermen, damage their work, their livelihoods and impact their families,” said Vo Van Trac, vice chairman of the body.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Department spokesman Raul Hernandez said Manila had asked its embassy in Beijing to get more information on the rules.
Hainan officials were not immediately available to comment, but Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said regulating the use of China’s marine resources was a normal practice.
China defends fisheries law
China defended yesterday a fisheries law issued by Hainan Province restricting fishing by foreign vessels in disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), saying the regulation is not really new.
The Chinese embassy in Manila said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made comments on the law after the new reg- ulation was criticized and explained that the current version is already the second amendment of the measure adopted in 1993. China downplayed criti- cisms by justifying the mea- sure is necessary for China as a coastal state.
Hua said it is a regular and routine practice that coastal provinces formulate local regulations in accordance with national laws to pre- serve, use and manage fishery resources.
“The measure has been ad- opted in 1993 and was amended in 2008 for the first time. The current version is the second amendment, which aims to strengthen efforts to protect, reproduce, explore and ratio- nally utilize fishery resources, to safeguard the legitimate rights of fishermen, ensure quality and safety of aquatic products, promote sustainable develop- ment of fishery industry, and to protect fishery resources and eco-environment,“ Hua said.
China challenged “anyone having interest in it.”
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/11/1277500/us-slams-china-sea-law
Mindanao commander eyed as next Army chief
From the Manila Standard Today (Jan 10): Mindanao commander eyed as next Army chief
A “dark horse” is likely to emerge as the next new commanding general of the Army to replace Lieutenant General Noel Coballes who will retire on February 7.
Sources at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City who are knowledgeable of the promotion told Manila Standard that Malacañang was eyeing Major Gen. Ricardo Visaya, present commander of the 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City, to appoint him to the coveted Army position.
When contacted through his mobile phone, he said, “It’s (Army position) the prerogative of the President”.
Visaya is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Matikas” Class of 1983. He will retire in December 2016.
A ranking military officer said Visaya’s name was not in the “final shortlist” of contenders recommended by the Board of Generals.
“As of now, all indications point to him as the next Army chief,” the general said.
Early birds whose names had cropped up as contenders include Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) chief Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang (PMA “Dimalupig” Class 1981) and 7th Infantry Division chief Maj. Gen. Hernando Iriberri, classmate of Visaya.
Some interviewed field commanders have favored the appointment of Visaya rather than Catapang or Iriberri.
“He (Visaya) does not play with politics. That’s the good thing we liked him so much. In fact, majority of field commanders silently vote for him than anybody else,” one battalion commander said.
Visaya, among other generals, wass recently promoted to two-star general.
He suceeded Maj. Gen. Nestor Anonuevo as division commander after the ambush that nearly killed 79-year-old Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie de Lara Guingona, mother of Senator Teofisto “TG” Guingona III, by communist rebels.
Visaya commanded the 69th Infantry Battalion covering Tarlac and Pampanga at the time authorities dispersed a rally of thousands of Luisita farmers that went violent and resulted in the death of a protester.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/01/11/mindanao-commander-eyed-as-next-army-chief-/
A “dark horse” is likely to emerge as the next new commanding general of the Army to replace Lieutenant General Noel Coballes who will retire on February 7.
Sources at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City who are knowledgeable of the promotion told Manila Standard that Malacañang was eyeing Major Gen. Ricardo Visaya, present commander of the 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City, to appoint him to the coveted Army position.
When contacted through his mobile phone, he said, “It’s (Army position) the prerogative of the President”.
Visaya is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Matikas” Class of 1983. He will retire in December 2016.
A ranking military officer said Visaya’s name was not in the “final shortlist” of contenders recommended by the Board of Generals.
“As of now, all indications point to him as the next Army chief,” the general said.
Early birds whose names had cropped up as contenders include Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) chief Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang (PMA “Dimalupig” Class 1981) and 7th Infantry Division chief Maj. Gen. Hernando Iriberri, classmate of Visaya.
Some interviewed field commanders have favored the appointment of Visaya rather than Catapang or Iriberri.
“He (Visaya) does not play with politics. That’s the good thing we liked him so much. In fact, majority of field commanders silently vote for him than anybody else,” one battalion commander said.
Visaya, among other generals, wass recently promoted to two-star general.
He suceeded Maj. Gen. Nestor Anonuevo as division commander after the ambush that nearly killed 79-year-old Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie de Lara Guingona, mother of Senator Teofisto “TG” Guingona III, by communist rebels.
Visaya commanded the 69th Infantry Battalion covering Tarlac and Pampanga at the time authorities dispersed a rally of thousands of Luisita farmers that went violent and resulted in the death of a protester.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/01/11/mindanao-commander-eyed-as-next-army-chief-/
AFP chief leads star-studded field due to retire this year
From Malaya (Jan 10): AFP chief leads star-studded field due to retire this year
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/afp-chief-leads-star-studded-field-due-retire-year
THE 120,000-strong military establishment will virtually have a new face this year with the impending retirement of Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and eight three-star generals and flag officers, including the heads of the major service commands.
Bautista, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1981, will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on July 20. He assumed the top military post in January last year.
The eight three-star officers due for retirement includes Army chief Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes (PMA ’80), Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz (PMA ’80), and Navy chief Vice Adm. Jose Luis Alano (PMA’79).
Coballes is retiring on February 7, Dela Cruz on April 30 and Alano on May 1.
Bautista said the military establishment has started the selection process for Coballes’ successor.
The other ranking military officers due for retirement this year are AFP vice chief Lt. Gen. Alan Luga of PMA ’81, on May 12; Western Command chief Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda of the Air Force Flying School ’80 (Aug. 17); Southern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo, PMA’80 (Sept. 8); Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz, PMA ’80 (Sept. 6); and PMA superintendent Vice Adm. Edgar Abogado of PMA Class ’80 (Feb. 16).
The only hierarchy leader and area commanders not retiring this year are AFP deputy chief of staff Lt. Gen. Virgilio Domingo of PMA Class ’81; Northern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang PMA’81; Central Command chief Maj. Gen. John Bonafos, PMA ’83; and Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, of PMA Class ’81.
“They will not be retiring at the same time; they will be retiring on different dates so the transition will be undertaken within the system of change of command,” said AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan.
Tutaan said the retirement of Bautista and other top officials will not negatively affect the military because the military’s thrusts and programs, including the Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan, are in place.
The IPSP Bayanihan, the military’s blueprint in winning peace, aims to end all internal security threats on or before the end of the President Aquino’s term in 2016. The military began implementing the campaign plan in January 2011.
“We will continue what has been started as far as programs are concerned...The new commanders will complement what we are doing right now,” said Tutaan, referring to the officers who will be succeeding the soon-to-be retiring officials.
Tutaan said the retirements will not hamper the execution of military thrusts and programs because those who will rise up in the military ladder are not new to the organization.
“We have been working hand in hand with them. They are not from the outside, who will come in and do not know anything about what is being undertaken. They’ve been here long before,” he said.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/afp-chief-leads-star-studded-field-due-retire-year
Navy pleased with support of AW-109 suppliers
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): Navy pleased with support of AW-109 suppliers
The Philippine Navy has expressed its appreciation to AgustaWestland, the manufacturer and supplier of its three brand-new AW-109 "Power" helicopters, for providing its pilots and flight crews with the necessary training to properly handle the aircraft.
Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said the aircraft manufacturer has pledged to provide three months' more worth of training to Filipino pilots and crewmen who will be manning the AW-109s.
"They (AgustaWestland technical representatives) will stay here until the end of March to ensure that all Filipino flight crews will be proficient in the handling of the AW-109s," he added.
Trainings on how to fly and maintain the aircraft have been ongoing since the helicopters were delivered to the PN last Dec. 8.
"The PN leadership is very pleased with the support being provided by AgustaWestland," Fabic said.
Also, the maintenance crews are also being taught to properly service the aircraft once aboard the frigates.
Fabic said there are seven pilots assigned per helicopter.
He added that an equivalent number of AW-109 trained co-pilots and crewmen are also available.
"More (pilots and crewmen) are now undergoing training to ensure that the aircraft can be manned at all times," the PN spokesperson earlier said.
At the moment, the Naval Air Group (NAG), the unit tasked to operate and maintain the PN's aerial assets, has more than 50 pilots at its roster.
Prior to the arrival of the AW-109s last Dec. 8, the inventory of the NAG consists of one Robinson R-22 helicopter, Blohm B0-105 helicopter, two Islander aircraft and four Cessna light utility planes.
With the arrival of the three AW-109s, the number of flyable assets of the NAG has increased to 11.
NAG pilots, who were trained to fly the AW-109s inCesto Calende , Italy
They added that the AW-109s is very maneuverable and very ideal for shipboard deployment.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603649
The Philippine Navy has expressed its appreciation to AgustaWestland, the manufacturer and supplier of its three brand-new AW-109 "Power" helicopters, for providing its pilots and flight crews with the necessary training to properly handle the aircraft.
Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said the aircraft manufacturer has pledged to provide three months' more worth of training to Filipino pilots and crewmen who will be manning the AW-109s.
"They (AgustaWestland technical representatives) will stay here until the end of March to ensure that all Filipino flight crews will be proficient in the handling of the AW-109s," he added.
Trainings on how to fly and maintain the aircraft have been ongoing since the helicopters were delivered to the PN last Dec. 8.
"The PN leadership is very pleased with the support being provided by AgustaWestland," Fabic said.
Also, the maintenance crews are also being taught to properly service the aircraft once aboard the frigates.
Fabic said there are seven pilots assigned per helicopter.
He added that an equivalent number of AW-109 trained co-pilots and crewmen are also available.
"More (pilots and crewmen) are now undergoing training to ensure that the aircraft can be manned at all times," the PN spokesperson earlier said.
At the moment, the Naval Air Group (NAG), the unit tasked to operate and maintain the PN's aerial assets, has more than 50 pilots at its roster.
Prior to the arrival of the AW-109s last Dec. 8, the inventory of the NAG consists of one Robinson R-22 helicopter, Blohm B0-105 helicopter, two Islander aircraft and four Cessna light utility planes.
With the arrival of the three AW-109s, the number of flyable assets of the NAG has increased to 11.
NAG pilots, who were trained to fly the AW-109s in
They added that the AW-109s is very maneuverable and very ideal for shipboard deployment.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603649
PA has anti-armor capability
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): PA has anti-armor capability
Not many people are aware of it but the Philippine Army, despite its small size, has an anti-armor capability.
This capability refers to a military unit's ability to destroy or incapacitate enemy armor units in the battlefield.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, Army spokesperson, said such anti-armor is provided by the 90mm and 57mm recoilless rifles, of which there are sufficient numbers in the armory.
"These weapons are being operated by elite infantry and special operations units," he added.
Aside from these weapons, the PA also operates 76mm and 25mm anti-tank guns which are mounted on its Scorpion CVRTs (combat vehicles reconnaissance tracks).
These vehicles are organized into mechanized infantry units of 14 CVRTs or armored fighting vehicles (AFVs).
The PA is known to operate 65 units of the Scorpion CVRTs.
The PA has 343 AFVs in its inventory, of which 150 are the United Kingdom-built GKN "Simba." The remaining AFVs consist of United States-designed V-150 and V-200 APCs, M-113 "Bradley," Turkish-made ACV-300s and British Scorpion CVRTs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603700
Not many people are aware of it but the Philippine Army, despite its small size, has an anti-armor capability.
This capability refers to a military unit's ability to destroy or incapacitate enemy armor units in the battlefield.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, Army spokesperson, said such anti-armor is provided by the 90mm and 57mm recoilless rifles, of which there are sufficient numbers in the armory.
"These weapons are being operated by elite infantry and special operations units," he added.
Aside from these weapons, the PA also operates 76mm and 25mm anti-tank guns which are mounted on its Scorpion CVRTs (combat vehicles reconnaissance tracks).
These vehicles are organized into mechanized infantry units of 14 CVRTs or armored fighting vehicles (AFVs).
The PA is known to operate 65 units of the Scorpion CVRTs.
The PA has 343 AFVs in its inventory, of which 150 are the United Kingdom-built GKN "Simba." The remaining AFVs consist of United States-designed V-150 and V-200 APCs, M-113 "Bradley," Turkish-made ACV-300s and British Scorpion CVRTs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603700
Philippine Army to get 400 brand-new light rocket launchers
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): Philippine Army to get 400 brand-new light rocket launchers
In line with its modernization program, the Philippine Army (PA) on Friday announced that it will be getting 400 units of LRRs (light rocket launcher anti-tank weapons) before the end of 2014.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, Army spokesperson, said that these weapons are meant to replace the 186 units of 90-mm and 26 pieces of 57-mm recoilless rifles currently in service.
He added the decision to acquire the 400 units of LRRs was done as the recilless rifles were too heavy to be carried by a single soldier alone.
"One of the downside aspect for these old weapons is that they are too heavy to be carried by an individual soldier, that most instances, it impedes the movement of maneuvering troops," Bacus stressed.
Aside from these LRRs, the PA also has 12 units of 76-mm guns and 300 25-mm cannons for its anti-armor role.
Anti-armor capability refers to the ability to destroy or disable enemy armor in the battlefield.
PA anti-armor weapons are issued to elite and special operations units and the newly-created mechanized infantry companies which consist of 14 armored vehicles each.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603790
In line with its modernization program, the Philippine Army (PA) on Friday announced that it will be getting 400 units of LRRs (light rocket launcher anti-tank weapons) before the end of 2014.
Capt. Anthony Bacus, Army spokesperson, said that these weapons are meant to replace the 186 units of 90-mm and 26 pieces of 57-mm recoilless rifles currently in service.
He added the decision to acquire the 400 units of LRRs was done as the recilless rifles were too heavy to be carried by a single soldier alone.
"One of the downside aspect for these old weapons is that they are too heavy to be carried by an individual soldier, that most instances, it impedes the movement of maneuvering troops," Bacus stressed.
Aside from these LRRs, the PA also has 12 units of 76-mm guns and 300 25-mm cannons for its anti-armor role.
Anti-armor capability refers to the ability to destroy or disable enemy armor in the battlefield.
PA anti-armor weapons are issued to elite and special operations units and the newly-created mechanized infantry companies which consist of 14 armored vehicles each.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603790
PCG commandant now a three-star general
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): PCG commandant now a three-star general
President Benigno S. Aquino III has approved the promotion of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isorena to the rank of Vice Admiral (VADM).
The promotion made Isorena’s rank equivalent to a three-star general in the military. A rear admiral holds a two-star position.
PCG spokesman, Commander Armando Balilo, said President Aquino approved and signed Isorena’s promotion last January 3 with the appointment order officially transmitted to Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya on Thursday.
Isorena is the 25th Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard who succeeded Vice Admiral Edmund Tan who retired from the service on December 15, 2012.
Vice Admiral Rodolfo D. Isorena hails from theProvince of Virac
Prior to his designation as the PCG Commandant, Rear Admiral Isorena was previously the Commander of the Coast Guard Fleet, the largest unit of the PCG composed of highly technical and specialized operating units such as Coast Guard Aviation Group, Coast Guard Ready Force (All Vessels of PCG), Special Operations Group and Coast Guard K-9.
He also held four Coast Guard Districts as District Commander and was also entrusted positions in the major commands of the PCG, such as Coast Guard Education and Training Command and has served as the Chief of Coast Guard Staff of the Philippine Coast Guard.
During his speech in the PCG New Year’s Call, Isorena thanked the President for bestowing him another star rank. He also stated that the PCG will continue to demonstrate excellence in rendering valuable services to the Filipino people.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603794
President Benigno S. Aquino III has approved the promotion of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isorena to the rank of Vice Admiral (VADM).
The promotion made Isorena’s rank equivalent to a three-star general in the military. A rear admiral holds a two-star position.
PCG spokesman, Commander Armando Balilo, said President Aquino approved and signed Isorena’s promotion last January 3 with the appointment order officially transmitted to Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya on Thursday.
Isorena is the 25th Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard who succeeded Vice Admiral Edmund Tan who retired from the service on December 15, 2012.
Vice Admiral Rodolfo D. Isorena hails from the
Prior to his designation as the PCG Commandant, Rear Admiral Isorena was previously the Commander of the Coast Guard Fleet, the largest unit of the PCG composed of highly technical and specialized operating units such as Coast Guard Aviation Group, Coast Guard Ready Force (All Vessels of PCG), Special Operations Group and Coast Guard K-9.
He also held four Coast Guard Districts as District Commander and was also entrusted positions in the major commands of the PCG, such as Coast Guard Education and Training Command and has served as the Chief of Coast Guard Staff of the Philippine Coast Guard.
During his speech in the PCG New Year’s Call, Isorena thanked the President for bestowing him another star rank. He also stated that the PCG will continue to demonstrate excellence in rendering valuable services to the Filipino people.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603794
3 NPA rebels surrender to military forces in Davao del Sur
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): 3 NPA rebels surrender to military forces in Davao del Sur
Three New People’s Army fighters voluntarily surrendered to the 39th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army in Bansalan, Davao del Sur Friday.
Armed Forces of thePhilippines
The surrenderees are all active members of the NPA’s Front 51, SMRC operating in the areas of Davao del Sur and Makilala,North
Cotabato .
Zagala said that the three are now undergoing custodial debriefing at the 39th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Tuban, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
He added that the surrendered rebels requested that the AFP withhold their identities for fear of retaliation by their former comrades in the NPA.
On the other hand, the military sees the surrender as an act of progress, knowing that not all members of the NPAs believe in their leaders’ hard-line stance on armed violence as means to achieve their goals.
"Their reasons for joining the communist movement might have been legitimate ones but after almost two decades of armed struggle, they have not realized that joining a group which causes only violence against our people isn't the answer," Zagala stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603834
Three New People’s Army fighters voluntarily surrendered to the 39th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army in Bansalan, Davao del Sur Friday.
Armed Forces of the
The surrenderees are all active members of the NPA’s Front 51, SMRC operating in the areas of Davao del Sur and Makilala,
Zagala said that the three are now undergoing custodial debriefing at the 39th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Tuban, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
He added that the surrendered rebels requested that the AFP withhold their identities for fear of retaliation by their former comrades in the NPA.
On the other hand, the military sees the surrender as an act of progress, knowing that not all members of the NPAs believe in their leaders’ hard-line stance on armed violence as means to achieve their goals.
"Their reasons for joining the communist movement might have been legitimate ones but after almost two decades of armed struggle, they have not realized that joining a group which causes only violence against our people isn't the answer," Zagala stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=603834
South Korean troop seeks to renew friendship through Leyte's recovery mission
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 10): South Korean troop seeks to renew friendship through Leyte's recovery mission
South Korean Armed Forces is eyeing to strengthen ties with Philippine government through its one-year mission aiming to reconstruct public infrastructure in typhoon-stricken towns ofLeyte .
“Hopefully, our work here will reinforce the friendship of Filipinos and South Koreans,” said Lt. Baek Myunghyun, public relations officer of the Korean joint support group deployed inLeyte .
The official said they immediately heeded the Philippine government’s request for aid recognizing the country’s participation in the 1950s Korean War.
“The sacrifices of 7,500 Filipino youths who came toSouth Korea
The South Korean government will be spending $ 30 million in its one-year reconstruction of government buildings.
The troops will prioritize the removal of storm debris and reconstruction of hospitals, public schools and municipal halls in the typhoon-stricken towns of Palo, Tanauan and Tolosa.
“This place needs immediate recovery. As much as we like to help everyone, it’s difficult to address all the needs. Our focus is the repair of public facilities so that everyone could benefit,” Baek said.
The team, which called themselves “Araw” had brought with them 100 equipment, consisting of back hoes, pay loaders, military trucks, ambulance, buses and fumigation trucks. Heavy equipment arrived inLeyte
last December 28 on board the Korean Navy ship Sunginbong Birobong.
“ToKorea , the Philippines
The troops, composed of members of South Korean army, navy, air force and marines are now currently repairing theLeyte Provincial
Hospital
“We’re working on an environment that is unfamiliar for us. We’re using construction materials and methods that are local. That one year mission is not definite. An extension may occur depending on the agreement between two governments. We’re still leaving that optionopen,” Baek said.
The troops opted to use local construction materials and methods to ensure the project will be continued by locals if in case they will not be able to finish the project after the mission.
The Korean team, which belongs to the first contingent, will stay inLeyte until June 2014. Another team will replace them in
the middle of the year until December. The team is now building their base camp
in Government Center
in Palo, Leyte .
Aside from reconstruction activities, the troop will also conduct medical missions and hold cultural presentation to make the Filipinos familiar of Korean culture.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=603716
South Korean Armed Forces is eyeing to strengthen ties with Philippine government through its one-year mission aiming to reconstruct public infrastructure in typhoon-stricken towns of
“Hopefully, our work here will reinforce the friendship of Filipinos and South Koreans,” said Lt. Baek Myunghyun, public relations officer of the Korean joint support group deployed in
The official said they immediately heeded the Philippine government’s request for aid recognizing the country’s participation in the 1950s Korean War.
“The sacrifices of 7,500 Filipino youths who came to
The South Korean government will be spending $ 30 million in its one-year reconstruction of government buildings.
The troops will prioritize the removal of storm debris and reconstruction of hospitals, public schools and municipal halls in the typhoon-stricken towns of Palo, Tanauan and Tolosa.
“This place needs immediate recovery. As much as we like to help everyone, it’s difficult to address all the needs. Our focus is the repair of public facilities so that everyone could benefit,” Baek said.
The team, which called themselves “Araw” had brought with them 100 equipment, consisting of back hoes, pay loaders, military trucks, ambulance, buses and fumigation trucks. Heavy equipment arrived in
“To
The troops, composed of members of South Korean army, navy, air force and marines are now currently repairing the
“We’re working on an environment that is unfamiliar for us. We’re using construction materials and methods that are local. That one year mission is not definite. An extension may occur depending on the agreement between two governments. We’re still leaving that optionopen,” Baek said.
The troops opted to use local construction materials and methods to ensure the project will be continued by locals if in case they will not be able to finish the project after the mission.
The Korean team, which belongs to the first contingent, will stay in
Aside from reconstruction activities, the troop will also conduct medical missions and hold cultural presentation to make the Filipinos familiar of Korean culture.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=603716
RP blasts China over new fishing law
From the Daily Tribune (Jan 11): RP blasts China over new fishing law
Beijing fires back, says fishing rule adheres to international law
ThePhilippines yesterday denounced a new Chinese
law that Manila says compels foreign vessels to
seek a permit from Chinese regional authorities for activities in large areas
of the South China Sea .
“We have requestedChina South
China Sea .”
Beijing also yesterday rejected US criticism of a measure requiring foreign
fishing vessels to secure permission to enter much of the South
China Sea which it claims almost in its entirety.
The rule — which comes as tensions have escalated over overlapping claims with the Philippines, Vietnam and other nations — was called “provocative” by the US.
But it is largely identical to an existing measure from 2004, and reports said similar rules had also been declared in 1998 and 1993.
As well as the South China Sea dispute,Beijing
is embroiled in a bitter row with Japan
over small uninhabited islands in the East China Sea .
Beijing
“We express dissatisfaction and opposition” to theUS
“If someone insists on calling technical revisions to a local fishing regulation that has already been implemented for years a matter of regional tension, a threat to regional stability, then all I can say is, this is either a lack of basic common sense or some ulterior motive.”
The measure took effect last week after being passed in November byChina ’s
southern island province
of Hainan
It states that foreign fishing vessels and individuals entering Hainan-administered waters “should obtain permission from the relevant authority”.
The rule applies to two million square kilometers of waters covered byHainan , the official Xinhua news agency reported last
month, without specifying the exact area or potential enforcement measures.
But that total area accounts for a large part of the South China Sea, portions of which are also claimed by thePhilippines ,
Vietnam , Malaysia , Brunei
and Taiwan
The US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki on Thursday called the move a “provocative and potentially dangerous act”.
ThePhilippines
Separately,China is facing
growing tensions with fellow Asian giant Japan
over islands in the East China Sea that have
raised concerns of an unintended conflict.
China
The ADIZ requires foreign aircraft to declare their intentions and maintain communications with Chinese authorities or face unspecified “defensive emergency measures.”
In a press briefing Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Raul Hernandez stressed that China’s fishing rule is a “gross violation of international law, pointing out that China’s new fisheries regulation exercising control over a vast area of the disputed South China Sea, takes over sovereignty of the high seas, to which no state can be subjected.
Hernandez said China;s fishing rule “escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea and threatens the peace and stability of the region.”
“We are gravely concerned by this new regulation that would require foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval from Chinese regional authorities before fishing or surveying in a large portion of the South China Sea,” Hernandez said, apart from saying that China is violating of the spirit of a non-binding Code of Conduct of 2001, signed by China together with Asean nations calling on all claimants to the South China sea to exercise restraint.
Press reports said the law was passed last year and took effect on Jan. 1. Hernandez said the DFA has filed a diplomatic complaint.
China claims almost all the
South China Sea but the Philippines ,
Vietnam , Malaysia , Brunei
and Taiwan
Tensions between thePhilippines
and China have risen in
recent years as Beijing
Earlier this year Manila took Beijing to a United Nations tribunal over the contested Scarborough Shoal, which has been controlled by Chinese government vessels since last year.
“This new law reinforcesChina ’s
expansive claim under the 9-dash line,” the DFA alleged Friday, referring to China
“This development escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea, and threatens the peace and stability of the region,” the statement read.
The statement said the Philippines was not the only country to be affected by the new Hainan regulations.
“These regulations seriously violate the freedom of navigation and the right to fish of all states in the high seas, as provided for under UNCLOS (the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea),” it said.
“Under customary international law, no state can subject the high seas to its sovereignty.”
China’s beefing up of its powers in the disputed Kalayaan Islands Group (KIGs) or the Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea will only fuel more tension among the claimant-countries, a local official in Palawan said yesterday.
Mayor Eugenio Bito-onon of Kalayaan town said that China’s planned increase police powers, particularly on fishing activities in the KIGs, is difficult to enforce since some, if not majority, of the contested islets in the area are populated and well-developed by occupant-countries.
“They (Chinese) will have difficulty imposing that because there are many claimant-countries, then their (claimants) islets in the Spratlys are populated,” said Bito-onon.
Bito-onon, cited the well-developed islets being occupied by Vietnam, Taiwan and Malaysia in the Spratlys.
Earlier reports said that China is planning to increase police powers in the South China Sea that would require foreign fishermen to seek permission from Beijing to operate along the disputed territory.
The move came after Beijing’s implementation of its air defense identification zone last November over East China Sea or along its borders with Japan and South Korea. The Adiz was met with criticisms from the United States, South Korea and Japan as they responded by sending flights within the Adiz.
“It could only agitate or increase the tension,” said Bito-onon.
On the other hand, the Kalayaan mayor noted that China’s move could also serve as “attention catcher” that could spark renewed interest in the dispute which could lead to early resolution of the issue.
“On the other side, if there is no attention catcher, there would be delays (on the resolution of the conflict). Who knows, this could lead to fast-tracking the resolution,” said Bito-onon.
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday vowed to protect the country’s maritime resources amid reports of China’s renewed efforts to beef up powers in the disputed South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea.
The Philippines and China are entangled in a tense dispute over the Kalayaan Islands Group or the Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs last year filed a formal complaint against China over its incursion over Philippine-claimed areas in the KIGs before the International Tribunal on the Law of the Seas. Beijing, however, refused to participate in the proceedings.
China has maintained its presence in the Philippine-occupied Ayungin Shoal in Palawan since 2012 and in Panatag (Scarborugh) Shoal off Masinloc, Zambales.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/rp-blasts-china-over-new-fishing-law
Beijing fires back, says fishing rule adheres to international law
The
“We have requested
The rule — which comes as tensions have escalated over overlapping claims with the Philippines, Vietnam and other nations — was called “provocative” by the US.
But it is largely identical to an existing measure from 2004, and reports said similar rules had also been declared in 1998 and 1993.
As well as the South China Sea dispute,
“We express dissatisfaction and opposition” to the
“If someone insists on calling technical revisions to a local fishing regulation that has already been implemented for years a matter of regional tension, a threat to regional stability, then all I can say is, this is either a lack of basic common sense or some ulterior motive.”
The measure took effect last week after being passed in November by
It states that foreign fishing vessels and individuals entering Hainan-administered waters “should obtain permission from the relevant authority”.
The rule applies to two million square kilometers of waters covered by
But that total area accounts for a large part of the South China Sea, portions of which are also claimed by the
The US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki on Thursday called the move a “provocative and potentially dangerous act”.
The
Separately,
The ADIZ requires foreign aircraft to declare their intentions and maintain communications with Chinese authorities or face unspecified “defensive emergency measures.”
In a press briefing Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Raul Hernandez stressed that China’s fishing rule is a “gross violation of international law, pointing out that China’s new fisheries regulation exercising control over a vast area of the disputed South China Sea, takes over sovereignty of the high seas, to which no state can be subjected.
Hernandez said China;s fishing rule “escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea and threatens the peace and stability of the region.”
“We are gravely concerned by this new regulation that would require foreign fishing vessels to obtain approval from Chinese regional authorities before fishing or surveying in a large portion of the South China Sea,” Hernandez said, apart from saying that China is violating of the spirit of a non-binding Code of Conduct of 2001, signed by China together with Asean nations calling on all claimants to the South China sea to exercise restraint.
Press reports said the law was passed last year and took effect on Jan. 1. Hernandez said the DFA has filed a diplomatic complaint.
Tensions between the
Earlier this year Manila took Beijing to a United Nations tribunal over the contested Scarborough Shoal, which has been controlled by Chinese government vessels since last year.
“This new law reinforces
“This development escalates tensions, unnecessarily complicates the situation in the South China Sea, and threatens the peace and stability of the region,” the statement read.
The statement said the Philippines was not the only country to be affected by the new Hainan regulations.
“These regulations seriously violate the freedom of navigation and the right to fish of all states in the high seas, as provided for under UNCLOS (the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea),” it said.
“Under customary international law, no state can subject the high seas to its sovereignty.”
China’s beefing up of its powers in the disputed Kalayaan Islands Group (KIGs) or the Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea will only fuel more tension among the claimant-countries, a local official in Palawan said yesterday.
Mayor Eugenio Bito-onon of Kalayaan town said that China’s planned increase police powers, particularly on fishing activities in the KIGs, is difficult to enforce since some, if not majority, of the contested islets in the area are populated and well-developed by occupant-countries.
“They (Chinese) will have difficulty imposing that because there are many claimant-countries, then their (claimants) islets in the Spratlys are populated,” said Bito-onon.
Bito-onon, cited the well-developed islets being occupied by Vietnam, Taiwan and Malaysia in the Spratlys.
Earlier reports said that China is planning to increase police powers in the South China Sea that would require foreign fishermen to seek permission from Beijing to operate along the disputed territory.
The move came after Beijing’s implementation of its air defense identification zone last November over East China Sea or along its borders with Japan and South Korea. The Adiz was met with criticisms from the United States, South Korea and Japan as they responded by sending flights within the Adiz.
“It could only agitate or increase the tension,” said Bito-onon.
On the other hand, the Kalayaan mayor noted that China’s move could also serve as “attention catcher” that could spark renewed interest in the dispute which could lead to early resolution of the issue.
“On the other side, if there is no attention catcher, there would be delays (on the resolution of the conflict). Who knows, this could lead to fast-tracking the resolution,” said Bito-onon.
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday vowed to protect the country’s maritime resources amid reports of China’s renewed efforts to beef up powers in the disputed South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea.
The Philippines and China are entangled in a tense dispute over the Kalayaan Islands Group or the Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs last year filed a formal complaint against China over its incursion over Philippine-claimed areas in the KIGs before the International Tribunal on the Law of the Seas. Beijing, however, refused to participate in the proceedings.
China has maintained its presence in the Philippine-occupied Ayungin Shoal in Palawan since 2012 and in Panatag (Scarborugh) Shoal off Masinloc, Zambales.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/rp-blasts-china-over-new-fishing-law
9 soldiers wounded in NPA ambush
From the Business Mirror (Jan 10):
NINE government troops were wounded on Thursday after they were ambushed by suspected New People’s Army guerrillas.
NINE government troops were wounded on Thursday after they were ambushed by suspected New People’s Army guerrillas.
The troops were returning to their camps after trying to serve a warrant of arrest in Agusan del Sur when the incident happened.
Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman for the Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, said the soldiers and policemen were on their way to their camps after trying to serve the warrant of arrest on a certain Nelson Lugpatan Campos, when seven communist guerrillas fired at them.
As a result, seven soldiers, one policeman and one miliatiaman were wounded. The ambush happened at around 1:50 a.m. on Thursday at Barangay Balit, San Luis, Agusan del Sur.
Uy said troops from the 26th Infantry Battalion and members of the Agusan del Sur Provincial Public Safety Company were tasked by the court in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, to serve the warrant on Campos.
The troops, however, failed to arrest Campos, who is facing murder charges, at Sitio Kipuyag, Barangay San Pedro, San Luis. Uy said that as the troops headed back to their camps, seven rebels suddenly appeared and fired on them.
7 soldiers wounded in NPA ambush in South
From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Jan 10): 7 soldiers wounded in NPA ambush in South
At least 7 government soldiers were reported wounded in a clash Friday with communist rebels in southern Philippines.
The soldiers were providing security to a police team serving an arrest warrant in the village of Balit in San Luis town when New People’s Army rebels ambushed them. The attack triggered a running gun battle in the village until rebel forces fled deeper into the hinterlands.
One policeman and a pro-government militia were also reported injured in the clash, but it was not immediately known if there were enemy casualties.
Troops from the 4th Infantry Division were also sent to the area to track down the ambushers.
Captain Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the Eastern Mindanao Command, said they were awaiting formal reports from the 4th Infantry Division and could not say if there were rebels killed in the fighting.
“Wala pa kaming natatanggap na report mula sa 4th Infantry Division at hindi pa namin masabi kung may nasawi sa kabila,” (We are still awaiting reports from the 4th Infantry Division and we could not say if there were rebel casualties.) Caber told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
The NPA did not issue any statement about the latest fighting, but the secessionist group have been waging war for decades now for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/7-soldiers-wounded-in-npa-ambush-in.html
At least 7 government soldiers were reported wounded in a clash Friday with communist rebels in southern Philippines.
The soldiers were providing security to a police team serving an arrest warrant in the village of Balit in San Luis town when New People’s Army rebels ambushed them. The attack triggered a running gun battle in the village until rebel forces fled deeper into the hinterlands.
One policeman and a pro-government militia were also reported injured in the clash, but it was not immediately known if there were enemy casualties.
Troops from the 4th Infantry Division were also sent to the area to track down the ambushers.
Captain Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the Eastern Mindanao Command, said they were awaiting formal reports from the 4th Infantry Division and could not say if there were rebels killed in the fighting.
“Wala pa kaming natatanggap na report mula sa 4th Infantry Division at hindi pa namin masabi kung may nasawi sa kabila,” (We are still awaiting reports from the 4th Infantry Division and we could not say if there were rebel casualties.) Caber told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
The NPA did not issue any statement about the latest fighting, but the secessionist group have been waging war for decades now for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/7-soldiers-wounded-in-npa-ambush-in.html
NPA tumira sa Agusan Sur
From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Jan 10): NPA tumira sa Agusan Sur (NPA scores in Agusan Sur)
Tinambangan kahapon ng mga hinihinalang New People’s Army ang isang grupo ng mga sundalo at parak sa bayan ng San Luis sa Agusan del Sur province sa Mindanao.
Pitong sundalo at isang Cafgu militia ang inulat na sugatan at isa naman sa panig pulisya sa pananambang sa Barangay Balit at nauwi ito sa sagupaan. May aarestuhin umano ang mga awtoridad sa naturang lugar ng sila’y ratratin ng mga rebelde.
Hindi pa mabatid kung may nasawi o sugatan sa panig ng NPA, ngunit nagpadala na umano ng karagdagang tropa ang 4th Infantry Division sa naturang lugar upang tugisin ang mga rebelde.
Sinabi naman ni Capt. Alberto Caber, ang tagapagsalita ng Eastern Mindanao Command, na wala pang ibininigay na ulat ang 4th Infantry Division sa kanila kung kaya’t hindi rin nito masabi kung may casualties sa panig ng rebeldeng grupo.
“Wala pa kaming natatanggap na report mula sa 4th Infantry Division at hindi pa namin masabi kung may nasawi sa kabila,” wika pa ni Caber sa Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper.
Matagal ng nakikibaka ang NPA upang maitatag ang sariling estado sa bansa.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/npa-tumira-sa-agusan-sur.html
Tinambangan kahapon ng mga hinihinalang New People’s Army ang isang grupo ng mga sundalo at parak sa bayan ng San Luis sa Agusan del Sur province sa Mindanao.
Pitong sundalo at isang Cafgu militia ang inulat na sugatan at isa naman sa panig pulisya sa pananambang sa Barangay Balit at nauwi ito sa sagupaan. May aarestuhin umano ang mga awtoridad sa naturang lugar ng sila’y ratratin ng mga rebelde.
Hindi pa mabatid kung may nasawi o sugatan sa panig ng NPA, ngunit nagpadala na umano ng karagdagang tropa ang 4th Infantry Division sa naturang lugar upang tugisin ang mga rebelde.
Sinabi naman ni Capt. Alberto Caber, ang tagapagsalita ng Eastern Mindanao Command, na wala pang ibininigay na ulat ang 4th Infantry Division sa kanila kung kaya’t hindi rin nito masabi kung may casualties sa panig ng rebeldeng grupo.
“Wala pa kaming natatanggap na report mula sa 4th Infantry Division at hindi pa namin masabi kung may nasawi sa kabila,” wika pa ni Caber sa Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper.
Matagal ng nakikibaka ang NPA upang maitatag ang sariling estado sa bansa.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/npa-tumira-sa-agusan-sur.html