City shedding image of terrorism hotspot, woos tourists

From e-Turbo News (Apr 26): City shedding image of terrorism hotspot, woos tourists

ISABELA CITY, Philippines - This island port city is finally shedding its image as a terrorism hotspot as it begins to woo tourists to sample its offerings.

The city, home to a diverse Christian amd Muslim cultures, is now ready to showcase what it can offer to the the world as it culminated its 13th anniversary as the first city of Basilan.

“We have had enough of negative perceptions and we want to show that we are ready to receive visitors to experience the natural beauty our place has to offer,” said Mayor Cherrylyn Santos-Akbar.

Among those the city could offer are the white sand beaches at Malamawi, an island facing off this port city, falls and the unique culture of Yakans, the peace-loving Muslim tribe in the south, according to Akbar.

The lady executive believed that opening the city to tourism would help them battle the negative perceptions about it.

The city is one of the top producers of copra and raw rubber materials given the vast plantation in the island. Thie island is also known for aqua-marine products.

Akbar said the city has invited artists from Manila to help them with their tourism bid.

Thousands of locals converged at the town plaza Friday and witnessed the cultural parade presented by the local government and different schools and non-government organizations.

“For many years now, we have been feeling safer despite the rumored threats. We have to stand up now and show we are no longer afraid,” a resident said after joining the parade.

City Police director Superintendent Albert Larubis said the city has been relatively peaceful for the past months.

“There are threats, but we are in pro-active mode to address all these threats,” Larubis said, citing the series of arrests of suspected Abu Sayyaf members in the city.

During the event, Larubis said they checked all the areas around the city and nearby towns to thwart any bomb and terror threats.

Hundreds of policemen and military troops were also scattered to secure the people and city.

“Yes we are ready to provide security for our tourists who would consider the beautiful place of Isabela City,” Larubis added.  (Source: Philippine Star)

http://www.eturbonews.com/45084/city-shedding-image-terrorism-hotspot-woos-tourists

Officials: Kidnapped tourist taken to jungle stronghold in southern Philippines

Posted to e-Turbo News (Apr 26): Officials: Kidnapped tourist taken to jungle stronghold in southern Philippines



Gao Huayun / Image via wordpress.com

Abu Sayyaf bandits have brought a Chinese tourist and a Filipino hotel receptionist to their jungle stronghold in southern Philippines after kidnapping the women from a dive resort in eastern Malaysia early this month, security officials said Friday.

The Philippine officials said that based on numerous intelligence reports and accounts from villagers, the women were now being held by Abu Sayyaf gunmen in the province of Sulu, where the extremists have been holding several foreign and Filipino hostages for ransom.

The three officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to reporters about the abductions.

Kidnapped from the Singamata Reef Resort in Sabah on April 2 were the 28-year-old Shanghai woman identified as Gao Huayun and 40-year-old Filipino Marcelita Dayawan.

The Abu Sayyaf gunmen then took them by motor boat to Sulu. Sabah, which has many tourist resorts, is just a short boat ride from the Philippines, where many bandits and kidnap gangs operate.

Philippine military officials initially reported that the kidnappers and their captives may have been taken to Simunul island in the southernmost province of Tawi-Tawi. But a search in the remote region yielded nothing.

Marine spokesman Captain Ryan Lacuesta said a new search was underway by government forces in Sulu, about 950 kilometers (590 miles) south of Manila, but refused to divulge other details.

Malaysian Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamid said two weeks ago that the kidnappers were demanding a ransom of P500 million ($11.3 million) for the release of a Chinese tourist. No ransom was asked for the Filipino woman, he said.

Malaysian police have been coordinating with their Philippine counterparts to deal with the kidnapping, the latest the Abu Sayyaf has staged in Malaysia.

In 2000, Abu Sayyaf gunmen snatched 21 European tourists and Malaysian and Filipino workers from Malaysia's Sipadan diving resort. The hostages were transported to Sulu, where they were released in exchange for huge ransom.

In November, Abu Sayyaf bandits killed a Taiwanese tourist and kidnapped his wife from another Sabah resort. The woman was free a month later in Sulu.

The Abu Sayyaf had links to international militant networks, including al-Qaeda, but a US-backed Philippine military crackdown has weakened it considerably in recent years.

The group, which is on the US list of terror groups, has about 300 fighters and is now much more focused on ransom kidnappings than global jihad.

http://www.eturbonews.com/45086/officials-kidnapped-tourist-taken-jungle-stronghold-southern-phi

Van of explosives seized in Agusan del Norte

From the Manila Times (Apr 25): Van of explosives seized in Agusan del Norte

POLICE in Agusan del Norte seized detonators and a chemical compound used both in fertilizers and in making bombs from two young men they intercepted in Santiago town on Thursday morning.

Police arrested the driver of the van identified as Jay Genilla Jumawan, 19, of Barangay Baan in Butuan City. Also arrested was Dennis Betoy Batal, 21, of Barangay Liberted, who was riding on the motorcyle escorting the van.

Confiscated were six 25-kilogram sacks of ammonium nitrate and six boxes, each containing 100 “aluminum super plain detonators.”

http://www.manilatimes.net/van-of-explosives-seized-in-agusan-del-norte/91817/

Govt to be stricter on visits to Tiamzons

From the Manila Times (Apr 25): Govt to be stricter on visits to Tiamzons

THE government peace panel on Friday scored the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) for “distorting” information regarding the visiting rights of jailed communist couple Benito and Wilma Tiamzon.

Because of this “distortion” of facts by the NDFP, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said it was “constrained from making its usual ready endorsement to the PNP [Philippine National Police]” regarding the visitation rights of the Tiamzons.

In a statement, the OPAPP belied claims by NDFP consultants Randall Echanis and Rafael Baylosis that they were not allowed to visit the couple who are ranking leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army.

“The assertion being circulated by Randall Echanis and Rafael Baylosis of the NDFP that they were denied access to visit Benito and Wilma Tiamzon at the PNP Custodial Center without an explanation is not true,” the office said.

The government panel maintained that the visits were “given the highest priority for immediate relatives, counsels or their doctors.”

“All others who do not fall under these categories have to undergo the usual scrutiny and process, which require an application submitted days in advance,” the OPAPP statement said.

The couple are detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

“As co-peace consultants of the Tiamzon couple in the government-NDFP peace talks, we are lawfully, politically and morally entitled to undertake consultations with other NDFP consultants and the reactionary government of President Benigno Aquino 3rd has no right to prevent us from exercising our duty as peace consultants,” the two NDFP peace consultants said in an earlier statement.

They accused Malacañang of systematically obstructing them from exercising their duties as negotiators, drawing the ire of the OPAPP.
The statement explained that the PNP Duty Officer on April 13, 2014 had clarified to the OPAPP that, as a matter of standard operating procedure, “they need at least one week to process requests for visits.

“Enchanis and Baylosis handed their request letter signed by SELDA [a human rights group] only on the said date. In light of this, the PNP regretfully informed Echanis and Baylosis that they could not favorably grant the request and they were advised to reschedule their visit,” the agency stressed.

The request, it was learned, was made through Issa Dumanjug Palo, secretariat head  of the NDFP monitoring committee for human rights.

http://www.manilatimes.net/govt-to-be-stricter-on-visits-to-tiamzons/91858/

Sulu town councilor linked to Sipadan kidnapping nabbed

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Apr 25): Sulu town councilor linked to Sipadan kidnapping nabbed

A municipal councilor of Sulu was arrested by policemen after he was linked to the Sipadan kidnapping in year  2000.

 

Arrested was Jamar Estrada Gonzales, a retired policeman with the rank of Police Inspector, a resident of Sta. Maria, this city and an incumbent councilor of Pandami municipality in Sulu.

 

Gonzales’ son told DZT that they were aboard a vessel bound for Sulu last Wednesday night when the policemen arrived and arrested his father.

 

Gonzales was taken to the city police office for investigation.

 

His relatives denied Gonzales took part in the Sipadan kidnapping. They questioned the legality of his arrest, saying it has no basis as the police did not present a warrant of arrest.

 

DZT tried to get a statement from the police but those handling the case were not immediately available.

 

Around 10:30 a.m. of the same day, government troops arrested Abu Darren in Baliwasan Seaside.

 

Darren was arrested on the strength of warrant for murder issued by the Regional Trial Court in Panabo, Davao City.

 

Police said that some members of the Abu Sayyaf Group are in the city on a mission to stage bomb attacks.

 

The 2000 Sipadan kidnapping was a hostage crisis in Sabah, Malaysia, and the southern Philippines that began with the seizing of 21 hostages from the dive resort island of Sipadan at approximately 6:15 p.m. on April 23, 2000 by six Abu Sayyaf guerrillas. Taken hostage were 10 tourists from Europe and the Middle East and 11 Malaysian resort workers, 19 non-Filipino nationals in total.

 

The hostages were taken to an Abu Sayyaf base in Jolo, Sulu.

 

During the hostage taking, Abu Sayyaf issued various demands for the release of several prisoners, including 1993 World Trade Center bomber Ramzi Yousef, $2.4 million and a complete withdrawal of government troops from the area around Jolo where the hostages were being held.

 

The Philippine army launched a major offensive on September 16, 2000, rescuing all remaining hostages, except Filipino dive instructor Roland Ullah. Ullah was eventually freed in 2003.

 

http://zamboangatimes.ph/zamboangatimes/top-news/10478-sulu-town-councilor-linked-to-sipadan-kidnapping-nabbed.html

Tribal leaders urge Duterte to mediate in negotiations

From the Sun Star-Davao (Apr 25): Tribal leaders urge Duterte to mediate in negotiations

TRIBAL leaders, who are part of the evacuees from Talaingod, Davao del Norte, re-echoed their call to halt the militarization in their homeland but this time, they want Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to intervene in the negotiations.

Leader of the Ata Manobo tribe in Barangay Palma Gil in Talaingod and spokesperson for Salugpongan Ta Tanu Igkanogon, Datu Duloman Dawsay told Sun.Star Davao in an interview that he has been very grateful of Duterte for welcoming the evacuees in the city yet he would appreciate him more if the mayor assists them in getting back to their homeland.

"Kaniadto pa gyud dako ug tabang si Mayor Duterte sa amoa apan iya ming natagad kaniadtong namakwit mi tong 1994. Pero unta matabangan pud niya mi ug usab sa among pagpauli pero una una sa gyud nga pahawaon ang militar sa among lugar (Mayor Duterete has helped us before when he gave attention to us when we evacuated in 1994. But we hope that he can help us again in getting back home as long the military are pulled out from our area)," Dawsay said.

He also said that they have yet to personally talk to Duterte as well as Talaingod town Mayor Basilio Libayao and the closest that they got to the government was through the Provincial Board and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)-Davao.

"Relief goods are nothing compared to what we are experiencing here and what we have left there. We cannot live in the city and we have left our farms there. We need to get home before our livelihood will be destroyed there," Dawsay added.

Spokesperson for the Pasaka (Confederation of Lumad Organizations in Southern Mindanao) Isidro Andao, in a separate interview, lambasted the intervention of NCIP-Davao claiming that they were suggested to accept the offers of mining companies and plantations in their areas.

"Ang ilang pamaagi sa amoang konsultasyon kay ilang ming padawaton sa mining ug sa laing plantasyon kay mao daw na ang makapalambo sa mga lumad pero dili namo na madawat kay ila gihapon pangkuhaon ang among yutang kabilin (Their suggestion in our consultation was that we should accept the offers of the mining and plantation companies since that will lead to the progress of the lumads but we will not accept that because they will still claim our ancestral lands)," Indao said.

He added that there has still been a conflict between the provisions of the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (Ipra) of 1997 and the People's Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991, thus, there should be amendments that will truly enforce the Ipra.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2014/04/25/tribal-leaders-urge-duterte-mediate-negotiations-339833

NPA asks Duterte to intervene in Talaingod 'militarization'

From the Sun Star-Davao (Apr 25): NPA asks Duterte to intervene in Talaingod 'militarization'

DURING the negotiation for the release of the captured army soldier in Laak, Compostela Valley Province, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said the New People's Army (NPA) asked him to intervene on the alleged militarization in Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

Duterte said he will try to find a solution to the problem. "They wanted my intervention. I was asked by the NPA to intervene because nahihirapan ang mga tao doon. They are after the people. I promised them to do something. I'm trying to sort it out," he said.

The Ata-Manobo evacuees have called for a pullout of military operations in their villages.

The evacuees claimed aerial bombing, massive harassment, and encampment in places where the soldiers were not supposed to put up camps. Others from their tribes have sought refuge in Bukidnon.

Duterte, however, said he will look into it but, "there's something there na hindi ko kaya because it's not within my jurisdiction," he said.

Datu Duloman, spokesperson of Salugpongan Ta Tanu Igkanogon, said that while they long to go home after weeks of staying at the Haran House, they will not do so if the military continue to operate in their area.

"Kami nanawagan na ipa-pull out ang sundalo sa kabukiran kay kining among mga lumad, wala mi naanad dire sa syudad. Didto mi naanad sa among lugar sa kabukiran (We are asking the government to pull out the military from Talaingod because we are not used to the lifestyle here in the city. We are used to living in our place)," said Datu Duloman Dawsay.

The Ata-Manobos, led by Datu Duloman Dawsay, are asking the government to listen to their call of pulling out the military from Talaingod so that they can return to their homes and live in peace with their families.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2014/04/25/npa-asks-duterte-intervene-talaingod-militarization-339747

MILF: EU Ambassadors meet MILF Central Committee at Camp Darapanan

From the MILF Website (Apr 26): EU Ambassadors meet MILF Central Committee at Camp Darapanan



The European Union Ambassadors in the Philippines headed by His Excellency Guy Ledoux met with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Central Committee led by Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao yesterday.
    

With Chairman Murad were First Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar, Second Vice Chairman Aleem Pangalian Solaiman, BIAF Chief of Staff Sammy Al Mansur, Central Committee Secretary Muhammad Ameen, Grand Mufti Abu Huraira, Majlis Ashura Chair Aleem Zainudin Bato, Eduard Guerra of Foreign Affairs, BIAF Vice Chief of Staff Sonny Davao, Omar Davao and BTC Commissioner Said Shiek.

The EU High Level Delegation included H.E. Ambassador Thomas Ossowski of Germany, H.E. Ambassador Josef Muellner of Austria, H.E. Ambassador Roland Van Remoortele of Belgium, H.E. Ambassador Massimo Roscigno of Italy, H.E. Charge’ d’Affaires Trevor Lewis of the United Kingdom, H.E.  Charge’ d’Affaires Mihai Sion of Romania, H.E. Dy Head of Mission Jan Vaytopil of Czech Republic, H.E. Dy Head of Mission Hugues-Antoine Suin of France, H.E. Vicente Selles of Spain, Edoardo Manfredini, EU Programme Manager, and Ms Thelma Gecolea, Press Officer.

EU Ambassador Ledoux and MILF Chairman Murad noted the meeting as manifestation of the heightening commitment and cooperation by and between both parties to ensure the successful implementation of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) – MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed in Malacanang last March 27, 2014.

Ambassador Ledoux commended both the government and MILF for the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro which he cited as a formulation for a meaningful autonomy that will work for the greater interests of the entire country. 

The EU Ambassadors were almost all present during the historic signing of the GPH – MILF CAB that was witnessed by no less than His Excellency President Benigno Simeon Aquino III and His Excellency Malysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

“The EU is fully committed to provide comprehensive technical expertise, funding support and development assistance for the success of the GPH – MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” he stressed.

He also gave assurance to support the efforts and initiatives from various stakeholders and civil society organizations that bolster the success of the peace processes of the GPH – MILF CAB.

Chairman Murad, for his part, conveyed the gratitude of the MILF and the Bangsamoro for the strong participation and support of EU in the implementation processes of the GPH – MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Murad stressed the priority programs of the MILF particularly during the transition period are on education, livelihood, health, infrastructure, and institutional and capacity development.

“The GPH – MILF CAB shall be an instrument in changing the lives of our people, of peace and prosperity, justice and unity, and ending violence through the entrenchment of good governance, democratic principles and a system fitting to the general welfare of the Bangsamoro,” he said.

He urged for development assistance and investments that will significantly help in the transformation of war ravaged and downtrodden communities in the Bangsamoro into peaceful and progressive region with promising prospects for a better future for its people regardless of race and religion.

Chairman Murad also hailed his Excellency President Aquino for the strong and unfaltering commitment to peace, development, unity and justice for the Bangsamoro and for the entire country.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/948-eu-ambassadors-meet-milf-central-committee-at-camp-darapanan

MILF: BTC, JICA signs MOU on quick impact projects

From the MILF Website (Apr 26): BTC, JICA signs MOU on quick impact projects

The Bangsamoro Transitio Commssion (BTC) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have  signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Quick Impact Projects (QIP) at the JICA Headquarters in Makati City last April 21.
  

The QIPs are intended for the benefits of the Bangsamoro selected communities following the signing of the Comprehenesive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) last March 27. 

About 20 projects on various sizes and types are on the pipeline under this program.

The signing of the MOU came in the heel of the meeting between MILF  Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and JICA President Akihiro Tanaka on March 28, a day after signing of the CAB in Malacanang Palace.

BTC Chair Mohagher Iqbal and Naoyuki Ochiai, senior expert on peace buuilding of JICA, signed the MOU on QIP which was witnessed by Shinichi Masuda, chief adviser, JICA Cotabato Project Office, and Mohammad Yacob, executive director of the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA).

The Outline of the Project was agreed after series of discussions on QIPs between JICA and the BTC as well as the BDA.

All parties also agreed that the BTC Socio-economic Office chaired by Engr. Muhajirin Ali will be the counterpart body to JICA and will be fully responsible in the over–all coordination for QIPs. On the other hand, the BDA will be responsible in the social preparation of every identified Bangsamoro community.

It was also learned that indigenous peoples and Christian migrant communities will also be recepient of the projects.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/947-btc-jica-signs-mou-on-quick-impact-projects

MILF: BLMI holds two more peace advocacies in Zamboanga Del Sur

From the MILF Website (Apr 25): BLMI holds two more peace advocacies in Zamboanga Del Sur



Resource persons from the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) after attending the Muslim Women Assembly in Banale, Pagadian City proceeded to Dimataling, Zamboanga Del Sur and conducted another peace advocacy on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) sponsored by the members of the academe and local officials. The activity was held on April 19 at Dimataling National High School ground (DNHS), Poblacion Dimataling, Zamboanga Del Sur.

The activity was organized and hosted by the DNHS School Principal Hadja Rashida S. Bonga with the support of the MILF Provincial Political Chairman, barangay officials and community leaders.

Rev. Pepito M. Suaren, Fatima Parish Priest in the area gave special message of unity and support to the peace process and the CAB.

The participants were Moro Muslims, Subanens (IP’s) and the settlers from nearby municipalities and barangays of Zamboanga Del Sur. The barangay officials attended and some members of the Arm Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were also in the vicinity of the venue.  1,400 people registered.

On April 20, the BLMI personnel and their companions travelled to Kumalarang Municipality also in Zamboanga Del Sur. Village Chieftain Datu Dakula VII and barangay officials hosted the program.

Barangay officials and members of the academe from nearby educational institutions who attended the program voiced their support to the GPH-MILF Peace Process, the CAB and made an appeal to the audience to support them and the Bangsamoro Basic law (BBL).

“Peace is what we all want! Employment and development are next in line and it is not only the people in core areas that will benefit from peace dividends but also those outside of the Bangsamoro territory and the whole country in general”, one speaker said.  

Sheikh Sam Alabat, BLMI Extension Service Unit Officer talked on Shariah and Politics in Islam and assured the non- Muslims and the IP’s who are part of the audience that Shariah Law will only apply to Bangsamoro Muslims while followers of other faiths will continue to enjoy and practice their own, a stable and normal life free from suppression and oppression as their beliefs and practices are guaranteed by CAB.













Mr. Amay Samrod, DXMY anchorman, based in Cotabato city stressed the importance of participating in the 2015 Plebiscite and urged the participants to exercise their right of suffrage when the ratification of the BBL is held.

This writer, BLMI Research Unit Officer articulated on the Ministerial form of Government as envisioned for the Bangsamoro Government, electoral system, Political Party formation as well as how people of the contiguous areas can participate in the plebiscite.

Professor Raby Angkal, MILF Peace Advocate related the age-old Moro struggle and cited the root causes of the Bangsamoro question since colonization era up to the succeeding Filipino Colonial Governments. Professor Angkal also delved on the salient features of the CAB.

Participants representing local officials, settlers and the IP’s took the opportunity to make their queries on the issues about contiguous areas, plebiscite, the Annex on Normalization, etc.

At the end of the program, the organizers and the participants expressed their gratitude to the resource persons for the enlightenment on the issues that confused them due to misconceptions and propaganda by peace spoilers and critics about Bangsamoro and the CAB.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/946-blmi-holds-two-more-peace-advocacies-in-zamboanga-del-sur

CPP/NDF-KM: KM to GPH: Resume formal peace talks with NDFP now; Release Benito Tiamzon, Wilma Austria, all detained NDFP consultants and political prisoners

NDF/KM propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Apr 24): KM to GPH: Resume formal peace talks with NDFP now; Release Benito Tiamzon, Wilma Austria, all detained NDFP consultants and political prisoners

Kabataang Makabayan

 

 

Members of revolutionary youth organization, Kabataang Makabayan, held a lightning rally today in Manila to pressure the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH) to face NDFP at the negotiating table and resume formal peace talks. The group also called for the immediate release of detained NDFP consultants including Benito Tiamzon and Wilma Austria and all political prisoners.

 

The arrest of Benito, Wilma and other NDFP Consultants is a clear violation of JASIG. An agreement forged in 1995, JASIG is meant to protect its holders against harassment, surveillance, etc. and cannot be unilaterally and instantaneously terminated by any party. Hence, GPH’s claim that JASIG is inoperative is malicious and erroneous.

 

GPH Unilaterally Ended the Peace Negotiations

 

According to KM, formal peace talks have been stalled since June 2011 after GPH refused to release 356 political prisoners and detained NDFP consultants in accordance to the Hernandez Doctrine and the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) which are both recognized and upheld by the Supreme Court.

 

Despite this, the NDFP has been persistent in pursuing peace negotiations with the help of the Royal Norwegian Government (RNG), the third party facilitator. After formal talks have been stalled, NDFP even wrote to BS Aquino and pursued “a special track” to expedite the negotiations and encourage GPH to re-enter into formal talks. Early on, the GPH party admitted that it was “doable.” After meetings in The Hague, GPH representative refused to sign any agreement within the “special track” framework, saying they are not authorized to do so, thus, nothing substantial was agreed upon.

 

National Industrialization and Genuine Agrarian Reform: Ideologically Charged?

 

The NDFP has already submitted its draft proposal on the second substantive agenda on socio-economic reforms since 1998. It contains the just call for national industrialization and program for genuine land reform. It has been published in book form, updated and refurbished in time for the formal talks in June 2011. GPH is yet to submit their own proposal.

 

Notwithstanding stalled formal talks, GPH has recently dismissed the NDFP proposal and reduced it to a question of ideology. What the GPH wants is to continue massive liberalization, deregulation, privatization and denationalization of the national economy for the abuse of private corporations and foreign investors and capitalists. This has been the economic framework for almost 5 decades that has resulted to incessant joblessness, massive poverty, backward agricultural sector—the fundamental causes of the peoples armed revolution in the countryside.

 

Call to Intensify Peoples War

 

KM as member-organization of the NDFP, envisions the fulfillment of just and lasting peace rooted in the genuine resolution of the roots of the armed conflict. Therefore, peace is not merely cessation of arms. The peoples’ revolution led by the New People’s Army (NPA) under the political guidance of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) is both the spear and the armor of the people against the US-Aquino reactionary government. GPH in its insincerity to resolve the crisis and conflict, can derail peace negotiations, but it cannot defeat peoples’ armed resistance.

 

In the context of imminent US economic, political, and military aggression through BS Aquino’s Charter Change and Enhanced Defense Cooperation, the youth must serve at the frontlines and wave the banner of nationalism and patriotism. The youth are thus urged, to serve at the frontlines of the anti-imperialist struggle, the peoples’ armed revolution in the countryside and build the democratic government of the people committed to providing genuine land reform and national industrialization.

 

Resume GPH-NDFP Formal Peace Talks Now!

Release Benito Tiamzon, Wilma Austria, NDFP Consultants and all Political Prisoners!

Hail the 41st Anniversary of the NDFP! Viva CPP-NPA-NDF!

Kabataan Tumungo sa Kanayunan, Sumapi sa NPA!

Sagot sa Kahirapan, Digmang Bayan!

 

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140424_km-to-gph-resume-formal-peace-talks-with-ndfp-now-release-benito-tiamzon-wilma-austria-all-detained-ndfp-consultants-and-political-prisoners

INFOGRAPHIC: U.S. Forces in Asia

Posted to ABS-CBN (Apr 25): INFOGRAPHIC: U.S. Forces in Asia



http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/25/14/us-forces-asia

European envoys back Bangsamoro peace

From ABS-CBN (Apr 25): European envoys back Bangsamoro peace

Five ambassadors of the European Union, along with 7 other officials, have visited the office of the regional governor in Cotabato City to reiterate their commitment to the Mindanao peace process and development in the region.

The delegation was led by EU Ambassador Guy Ledoux; together with Ambassador Thomas Ossowski of Germany; Ambassador Josef Muellner of Austria; Ambassador Roland van Remoortele of Belgium; Ambassador Massimo Roscigno of Italy; UK embassy charge d'affaires Trevor Lewis; Romania charge d'affaires Mihai Sion; Jan Vytopil, deputy head of mission of the Embassy of the Czech Republic; Hugues Antoine Suin, deputy head of mission of the Embassy of France; Vicente Selles, coordinator of the General Sspanish Cooperation in the Philippines; Edoardo Manfredini, EU program manager; and Thelma Gecolea, EU press officer.

The EU delegation arrived at the office of the regional governor Friday morning and held a meeting with ARMM officials. They were briefed about the accomplishments and projects being implemented by the Hataman administration for the past 3 years.

ARMM executive secretary Atty. Laisa Alamia told EU delegates all the reforms being done by the present administration, including the campaign against "ghost" teachers, students, schools in the ARMM.

Alamia also told them about the ARMM special programs.

They were also briefed on preparations for the Bangsamoro government transition in 2015.

"We are impressed with the presentation. This is the first time that we have given a detailed information on what is ARMM government doing in terms of peace and development in the region," Ledoux said.

After an hour of meeting with ARMM officials, the EU delegation went to camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, for a closed-door meeting with leaders headed by MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim.

Ledoux told ABS-CBN News that they visited Mindanao to reiterate the EU commitment to the Mindanao peace process and development in the region.

"After the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the completion of the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, a peaceful transition in Mindanao is essential in the Philippines' economic and social development. We are here to support the on-going peace process," he said.

Since 1990, Mindanao has benefited from P9.5 billion in development assistance from the European Union.
 

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/25/14/european-envoys-back-bangsamoro-peace

MILF denies fighters disarmed cops

From ABS-CBN (Apr 25): MILF denies fighters disarmed cops

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Central Committee does not believe that its fighters were behind the disarming of policemen and release of 8 arrested drug suspects last Tuesday in Balindong, Lanao del Sur.

MILF First Vice Chairman for Political Affairs Ghazali Jaafar said the people behind the disarming are out to sabotage the peace talks between the MILF and the government.

"Hindi kami naniniwala na magagawa ito ng isang lehitimong miyembro ng MILF. Sa tingin ko, isa itong sabotahe sa peace talks...madali lang gayahin ang patches at uniform ng MILF,'' Jaafar said.

Jaafar said MILF fighters and members on the ground are always coordinating with the MILF Central Committee.

Jaafar also belied allegations that there are MILF members involved in illegal drug trading.

"Hindi totoo yan, mariing ipinagbabawal ng MILF at ng Islam ang ganyang gawain,'' he said.

Chief Superintendent Noel delos Reyes, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Police director, said tension is still felt in Picong and Balindong, Lanao del Sur following the incident.

"Kaya nga pupunta tayo ngayon doon para makita talaga natin yung sitwasyon doon, pero everything is under control naman,'' Delos Reyes said.

The GRP-MILF Coordinating Committees on Cessation of Hostilities is already moving to address the situation and make sure this will not turn into a bigger conflict in the province.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/25/14/milf-denies-fighters-disarmed-cops

NPA admits killing Cagayan town mayor for 'espionage'

From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (Apr 26): NPA admits killing Cagayan town mayor for 'espionage'

The New People’s Army (NPA) has finally admitted responsibility for last Monday’s killing of Mayor Carlito Pentecostes Jr. of Gonzaga, Cagayan.

In a statement, the NPA’s West Cagayan Front accused Pentecostes of espionage or helping the military in the raid on a rebel camp in Gonzaga’s Tapal village in 2010 that left several guerrillas wounded.

Last Monday’s incident, according to the NPA, belied the military’s pronouncement that insurgency has been dismantled in northern Luzon.

“Last Monday’s execution of Mayor Pentecostes is a slap in the face of the military that has presumed we have already dissipated,” West Cagayan Front spokesperson Ester Falcon said in the statement in Filipino.

Earlier, Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang, Armed Forces’ Northern Luzon Command chief, doubted if the NPA staged the attack since northeastern Cagayan has been declared insurgency-free. Besides, he said, the manner by which the armed men staged the assault was not the NPA’s usual style.

In its statement, the NPA said its “people’s court” began deliberating Pentecostes’ fate in 2012 and that he was found “guilty” of espionage by eight of its nine members.

The NPA also accused Pentecostes of backing the provincial government-sanctioned black sand mining project in Gonzaga, which reportedly has the biggest deposits of the precious ore among Cagayan’s coastal towns.

Despite the NPA’s admission, Pentecostes’ family insisted that the killing has something to do with politics. They also belied the insurgents’ accusations against him.

Pentecostes’ elder brother Edward said they are seeking the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a separate investigation into his brother’s “very brutal” killing.

Mayor Darwin Tobias of adjacent Santa Ana town also expressed doubts that Pentecostes was killed because of his pro-mining stance, saying the rebels themselves also “earn” from the extraction of black sand in the province.

Pentecostes, 60, was shot dead by two of eight Armalite-wielding men who went near him while he was presiding over last Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at the municipal hall grounds. He reportedly sustained at least nine gunshot wounds in the head and upper body.

Earlier, Senior Superintendent Gregorio Lim, Cagayan police director, said murder, robbery and arson charges were being readied against two NPA commanders, David Soriano, alias Ka Colly, and Rolando Ibis, alias Ka Pearson, who reportedly led the attack. The two are said to be ranking officers of the NPA’s Henry Abraham Command operating in Cagayan and Apayao.

The two, according to Lim, were identified in the footage of the closed-circuit television camera installed at the Gonzaga town hall grounds.

 

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/26/14/npa-admits-killing-cagayan-town-mayor-espionage

Army denies abduction

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 25): Army denies abduction

The Army's 47th Infantry Battalion vehemently denied allegations that it was responsible for the abduction of a farmer in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, on April 13, as the human rights group Karapatan-Negros has claimed.

Lt. Col. Ariel Reyes, 47 th IB commander, yesterday challenged Karapatan-Negros to present “proof” that they were behind the alleged abduction of a certain Benny Catipan, who was then on his way home, with an unidentified companion, in Sitio Buko, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City.

In a statement it issued, KN said that the wife and mother of Catipan called on the Philippine Army to release him and investigate its units responsible for his alleged abduction.

KN said the companion of Catipan, told them that the victim was waylaid by armed elements with covered faces and wearing black shirts. The companion was allowed to go home.

Supt. Simeon Gane, Himamaylan police chief, said yesterday that the wife of Catipan reported to them on April 16 that her husband was abducted by armed men.

Gane, however, said the woman who reported the alleged incident, has not showed up at the police station until now so they could get more information from her.

Before the alleged abduction, KN claimed that the wife of the victim recalled that alleged Army soldiers wearing civilian clothes, convinced her husband to surrender, or they will always be subject to surveillances.

“We are not behind it,” Reyes said, in response to the accusations of KN.

The KN strongly condemned the alleged abduction of Catipan, and also expressed concern over what it calls rising cases of enforced disappearances and human rights violations in Negros island.

Reyes said Himamaylan City is not within the area of operations of the 47IB, although his Bravo Company unit operating in the place was placed under the supervision of the 11 th Infantry Battalion.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/April/25/topstory7.htm

32 ‘NPA sympathizers' pledge support to gov't

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 25): 32 ‘NPA sympathizers pledge support to gov't

Thirty-two people, claiming to be sympathizers and supporters of the New People's Army in southern Negros Oriental, recently took their oath of allegiance to the government during a ceremony in Barangay Milagrosa, Sta. Catalina town.

The “Oath of Faithfulness to Government” was held as part of the culmination of the Bayanihan Team activities of the 79 th  Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

The oath-taking was administered by Milagrosa barangay kagawad Jose Santos, Lt. Alex Robillos of the 79 th  IB said in a press release yesterday.

In her testimonial message, a purported supporter of the NPA called on other residents to support the government, and encouraged them to end whatever support they are giving to the NPAs to prevent them from becoming “victims of the insurgents”, the press release said.

Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302 nd  Infantry Brigade, is promoting the essence of Bayanihan to “win the peace” and pave the way for development, Robillos said.

Patrimonio encouraged barangay residents to commit themselves to work as one for the betterment of everybody.

An outreach program was conducted during the oath-taking for around 500 individuals, who availed of free medical consultation, dental services, circumcision, senior citizens' ID processing, free haircut, massage, animal vaccination, and a feeding program.

Slippers were also distributed to the children, courtesy of the Galway Clinic–INGO, an Irish non-government organization.

The activity was recorded through the efforts of the 79 th  Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion, the 302 nd  (Achiever) Brigade, 703 rd  CDC, LGU- Sta. Catalina, barangay officials of Milagrosa, and volunteer nurses from the Negros Oriental High School Batch '94.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/April/25/negor2.htm

DFA official calls anew for restraint on WPS issue

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 26): DFA official calls anew for restraint on WPS issue

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary  Evan P. Garcia renewed the call for self-restraint at the recently concluded meetings of the ASEAN-China Senior Officials’ Consultations (ACSOC) and the ASEAN-China Senior Officials’ Meeting on the Implementation of the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) held in Pattaya City, Thailand from April 21 to 22.  He said that parties to the DOC need to refrain from actions that will complicate or escalate the tension in the region.

He also said that the Philippine submission on 30 March 2014 of its memorial to the Arbitral Tribunal of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) manifested the Philippines’ commitment to a peaceful and durable means towards a lasting solution to the disputes in the South China Sea anchored on the rule of law.

The Meeting noted the progress on the discussions on the implementation of the DOC and the consultations on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC).  However, the Philippines and all of ASEAN countries emphasized the need to make faster progress on the full and effective implementation of the DOC and on the early conclusion of the COC.

The Meeting considered relevant international instruments, such as those aimed at building confidence, as well as avoiding and managing incidents at sea, as possible building blocks towards a COC.

At the ACSOC, Undersecretary Garcia elaborated on the various regional and international initiatives to enhance cooperation in the fields of food and energy security, climate change, and disaster risk reduction management.

Noting increasing interconnectedness of the countries in the region, Undersecretary Garcia called for them to step up cooperation to address maritime security challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism.  He also highlighted the importance of establishing norms to guide maritime relations between peoples and countries and to continue to establish habits of dialogue and cooperation.

ASEAN and China discussed initiatives to further enhance their cooperation in the political, economic, and functional fields. The Meeting acknowledged that the growth and development of ASEAN-China strategic partnership has made positive contributions to the region.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1751398423212

27 aluminum-hulled boats to be distributed for maritime security in Palawan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): 27 aluminum-hulled boats to be distributed for maritime security in Palawan 

Twenty seven (27) units of aluminum-hulled boats are due for distribution in several Palawan towns by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Provincial District to take care of the coastal areas and support the protection of the West Philippines Sea (WPS).

The boats we’re inaugurated during the 46th Founding Anniversary of the PCG in Palawan on April 23, according to Lt. Greanata Jude Thursday, with Vice Adm. Rodolfo Isorena.

Jude said the aluminum-hulled boats have 40 horse power capabilities, and will be used to increase maritime security. They will be distributed to PCG stations in the province to also speed up responses on maritime emergencies.

“With the new boats, patrol operations will also increase, and we are hoping that they will lessen the conduct of illegal maritime activities by unscrupulous individuals,” she said.

Meanwhile, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing took place too, between the PCG and the local government unit (LGU) of Kalayaan municipality for the provision of three teacher aides to teach at the Kalayaan Elementary School in the WPS.

The teacher aides, said Jude, will stay for three months in Kalayaan to serve as volunteers on rotation. They will be staying with other military personnel, who are stationed in the disputed region.

Mayor Eugenio Bito-onon Jr. of Kalayaan welcomed the MOA signing as a positive opportunity for families that have chosen to reside in the municipality.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=637841

DPWH 11 seeks AFP’s help over NPA `revolutionary taxes’

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): DPWH 11 seeks AFP’s help over NPA `revolutionary taxes’

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH XI) is seeking the help of the Eastern Mindanao Command over the continued activities of the New People’s Army (NPA) that hampered the implementation of government projects.

In the forum on the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL), DPWH 11 Regional Director Mariano Alquiza expressed concern over the alarming situation wherein NPAs burn equipment if companies fail to pay the “revolutionary taxes”.

Lt. Col. Thaddeus Jacob Obligado, Commanding Officer of the 10th Infantry Division said that based on information, the rebels exact one or two per cent for every gross income of the business companies operating in the region as revolutionary taxes. Ten per cent of the collection goes to the national office of the communist organization.

In such case, the NPA could be earning Php150 million and more in “revolutionary taxes” every year.

That is the amount reached when project engineers and private contractors of the DPWH did their accounting if the region was allocated Php 7.2 billion in 2013 and Php 7.9 billion for 2014 in infrastructure projects.

Alquiza said the NPAs are earning more compared to other government agencies which have small budgets. Alquiza said if DPWH allocation was Php 7.2 billion in 2013 two per cent of that would amount to Php 150 to Php 160 million, which could even be enough to build a one classroom building.

“That is now the question for all of us. We have to cooperate,” Arquiza told district and project engineers of the DPWH and their contractors during the forum.

The forum was conducted after DPWH received information from their contractors over the collection of “revolutionary taxes’ by the NPAs. Alquiza expressed hope that the military could help them on how to deal with the activities of the revolutionary forces.

He said the activity is also one of the reasons that are causing delays in the project implementation, particularly when rebels resort to burning of their equipment.

Alquiza said the NPA is working like the government such ordering suspension of projects if contractors cannot give the money. Sometimes contractors could not start the project because they cannot give the money. The NPA will also issue notice to proceed if it has issued a `permit to operate’.

“Inis na inis na ako dito (I am mad about this),” Alquiza said, adding that the activities of the NPAs are affecting government projects.

Alquiza said the situation is alarming.

Burning

Obligado said the arrest of Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, both ranking officers of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) resulted to increase in NPA atrocities elsewhere. He claimed that NPAs need money because Wilma, who was finance officer of the revolutionary movement, could no longer send money to the ground forces.

Obligado reported that burning of equipment continued to force companies to pay revolutionary taxes. Since January, the military already recorded eight (8) burning incidents. Out of the eight incidents, four occurred only this month.

The biggest damage caused by the NPAs was the burning of the equipment of Apex Mining estimated to cost Php265 million.

CAHRIHL

Alquiza admitted there is no way to stop the NPAs from doing their activities but there is a way to reduce their activities. One way is for the project engineers and contractor to go into an information campaign about CAHRIHL.

He said only few people know about the rights of the civilians, including even members of the NPAs.

Obligado urged DPWH officers and contractors to educate their workers because by doing so, they can be protected and know their rights. “You just need to display tarpaulins and put stickers,” he said.

But an engineer butted in asking Obligado that it is the role of the military to secure civilians against any atrocities from any armed group.

For which, Obligado responded “what have you to lose if you will advocate CAHRIHL to other people”.

Obligado also urged them to share information with the military because by doing so, they will be protected. Otherwise, Obligado said NPAs will continue to inflict harm to them and the civilians.

Others however hinted concerns on their own safety and security. One district engineer commented that they only have one life to live.

Obligado even went on urging contractors to go to the media to report any atrocity or any threat of extortion.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=637890

300 civilians flee "infighting" among MILF guerillas in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): 300 civilians flee "infighting" among MILF guerillas in Maguindanao

Four civilians were hurt when warring groups clashed in Maguindanao over long standing land dispute.

Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said two groups identified with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) traded bullets with each other since Wednesday, sending hundreds of civilians fleeing.

The clash site was Barangay Balanaken in Datu Piang, Maguindanao. Fighting broke out at 9 a.m. and lasted until about 2 p.m.

"The victims were hit by stray bullets," Hermoso told reporters.

Sporadic exchange of bullets still continues despite the presence of government forces but did not intervene to allow MILF leaders to patch up the misunderstanding among their men.

The skirmishes was triggered by a long standing land dispute involving leaders of the MILF.

Hermoso said the fighting sent some 300 families fleeing to safer grounds.

He said no members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were involved in the conflict which is now being addressed by the government and MILF joint ceasefire panel.

Fighting simmered down Friday, a Holy day for Islamic believers.

But civilians refused to return home unless normalcy is restored in their communities.

Most of the displaced families are now housed at the Datu Gumbay Elementary School in Barangay Poblacion, Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=637974

3rd Infantry Division opening roster for individuals interested in military career

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): 3rd Infantry Division opening roster for individuals interested in military career

The Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division announced Friday that it is opening its door to Filipinos interested in making the military a career.

Major Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said that the Philippine Army Recruitment Center Office for Visayas of the Army Personnel Management Center will facilitate the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery (PAATB), Army Qualifying Exam (AQE) and Special Written Exam (SWE) to qualified applicants for Officer Candidate Course (OCC), Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) and Candidate Soldiers Course (CSC).

Schedule and venue of examinations are the following: April 24 at the Negros Oriental State University Bais Campus, Bais City; April 26 at the Carlos Hilado Memorial State College, Binalbagan Campus, Binalbagan City, Negros Occidental; April 28 at the West Negros University, Bacolod City; while on April 30 at Canlaon Municipal Gym, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.

Qualified to take the examinations are the following:

Officer Candidate Course- Natural born Filipino citizen, Baccalaureate Degree Holder, 21 to 24 years old at the start of training (for Civilian), 21 to 29 years old at the start of training (for EP), must have completed at least one term or three years continuous active military service (for EP); single/never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child, at least 5 feet for both male and female, physically and mentally fit, no pending case in any court of law.

The OCC is a one-year course which prepares a candidate mentally, physically, and emotionally to become an army officer. Upon graduation, the individual will be commissioned as an Army 2nd Lieutenant into the Regular Force, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Officer Preparatory Course- Natural born Filipino citizen, Baccalaureate Degree Holder, Commissioned 2Lt in Reserved Force, must be 21 but no more than 31 years old on the date of Call to Active Duty (CAD), must have completed at least one term or three years continuous active military service (for EP), single/never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child at the time of CAD (for civilian), at least 5 feet for both male and female, physically and mentally fit, no pending case in any court of law.

If one is already an Army 2nd Lieutenant in the Reserved Force, AFP and on inactive status, s/he must be a graduate of Probationary Officer Training Course (POTC) and the six-month OPC prepares one for active duty in the Regular Force, AFP.

Candidate Soldiers Course- Natural born Filipino citizen, single/never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child, preferably 72 units in college, 18 to 26 years old but must not be 27 years old at the convening date, at least 5 feet for both male and female, physically and mentally fit, no pending case in any court of law.

With special skills needed by the AFP or Philippine Army if the applicant is only a High School graduate. Proof of such skills must be shown.

The CSC will undergo the three months basic military training and forty-five days Jungle Warfare and Mountains Orientation Course (JWMOC) with rigid combat training to be enlisted into the regular force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the rank of private in the term of three years.

The pre-screening of documents is required for prospective applicants in the nearest Army units/stations on designated areas/venues.

Applicants shall bring the following at the examination center: College diploma, Transcript of Records (TOR), Birth Certificate (NSO original), Valid Identification Card, Pencil Number 2, Ball pen and a long folder. Attire is White T-Shirt, Pants and Rubber Shoes.

Pay and Benefits for Officers include: Pay and allowances (Monthly Gross) for Officer Candidate –P29, 007 and 2LT (Call to Active Duty) - P32, 668 for Candidate Soldier – P14,205 and Private (Enlistment) – P20,404, Insurance and healthcare benefits, Billeting and housing privileges, Job security, Leadership and other skills trainings, Opportunity for career advancement based on performance, Opportunities for Post Graduate Studies both within the country and abroad and an Opportunity to lead in the Philippine Army.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=638035

Peace Advocates Zamboanga sets forum on Annex on Normalization of CAB

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): Peace Advocates Zamboanga sets forum on Annex on Normalization of CAB

The Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ) has scheduled a forum on Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) in this city.

PAZ president Fr. Angel Calvo said the forum will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday (April 26), during the monthly meeting of the Interreligious Solidarity for Peace at the Marcian Business Hotel.

Calvo said the forum is aimed to expound pertinent provisions on the Annex on Normalization of CAB to invited stakeholders.

He said that Institute of Autonomy and Governance Executive Director Atty. Benedicto Bacani was invited as the guest speaker and Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero as reactor.

PAZ is a Catholic organization whose objective is the promotion of peace by strengthening good relations among Muslims and Christians, and all other peoples.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=638067

New PAF chief to continue programs already laid out for capability, professionalism, discipline of service

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): New PAF chief to continue programs already laid out for capability, professionalism, discipline of service

FERNANDO AIRBASE, LIPA CITY, BATANGAS --Major Gen. Jeffrey Delgado who formally took over the 17, 500-strong Philippine Air Force Friday, vowed to continue implementing programs already laid out which would enhance the capability, professionalism and discipline of the PAF.

The new commanding general of the country's military air service made this statement during his assumption of command held at Fernando Air Base, Lipa City, Batangas.

"To the men and women of the PAF, I will lay down the direction of my leadership in simple terms. As our National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, once said 'ang hindi lumingon sa pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paruruunan' (those who refuse to trace their roots cannot move forward). That is why we shall continue the programs already laid out to enhance capability, professionalism and discipline, " Delgado stressed.

"And second, we shall set the direction of our future by aligning the PAF Flight Plan with the Department of National Defense and Armed Forces of the Philippines Transformation Roadmaps. This will guide our activities in pursuit of security sector reform," he added.

And to ensure the continued upgrade of the PAF, Delgado vowed to increase "back pressure and add more thrusts to propel the organization instep with the defense establishment, the national government and our valued stakeholders, we will never forget the 'Daang Matuwid' edict of the national leadership.

"And third, we shall build an organization that will ensure high levels of operational readiness to meet any contingency 24/7, propelling the Air Force to ably perform its mandate into the future will require learning strategy and character. Learning as we begin to receive and employ new weapons of higher technology and sophistication, strategize as we have smartly harness our enhanced capabilities to address current and emerging challenges in our environment," Delgado concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=638025

Obama visit highlights strong military relations, friendship between US, PHL

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): Obama visit highlights strong military relations, friendship between US, PHL

US President Barack Obama's visit to the Philippines highlights the strong military relations and historic friendship between the Philippines and the United States.

This was emphasized by Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs chief Arsenio Andolong.

Andolong also believes that the visit of the US President this April 28 to 29 will further strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two nations.

"Although we don't know yet what issues will be discussed, we believed President Obama's visit will further strengthen the (existing) relations between the Philippines and the United States," he said.

Malacanang earlier stated that ways to intensify political and security cooperation between the Philippines and the United States will be discussed during Obama's visit.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the PHL-US wide-ranging security partnership includes joint military exercises, such as "Balikatan" and humanitarian assistance and disaster response activities.

It will also include defense and security assistance that supports Philippine efforts toward achieving enhanced defense capabilities.

“The treaty alliance between the Philippines and the US has been a cornerstone of peace and stability in the region,” Coloma said, noting that the United States is the only defense treaty ally of the country.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=638061

President Aquino says air force modernization will continue

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): President Aquino says air force modernization will continue

The government will continue to modernize the military, especially the Philippine Air Force (PAF), with the appointment of its new head, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Friday.

During the PAF’s change of command ceremony held at the Fernando Air Base here, the President said that incoming chief Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado will continue the reforms initiated by his predecessor, Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz.

Gen. Delgado is the 33rd PAF chief. He is a seasoned combat pilot, and a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1982.

“Kumpiyansa naman po tayong higit pang titibay at lalakas ang hanay ng ating mga kawal lalo pa’t may gobyerno na kayong tunay na kumakalinga sa inyo,” he said in his message.

After the PAF retired its fleet of F-5 freedom fighter aircraft, the President said he wanted to acquire modern jets to hone the skills of PAF pilots.

The good news, he said, is that starting next year, PAF will start to receive the delivery of 12 new FA50 jets from South Korea.

The government also aims to buy eight combat utility helicopters; six close air support aircraft, two long-range patrol aircraft, and radar systems to beef up the country’s military capability in the midst of regional threats.

Acquiring a full-motion flight simulator is also part of government plans, he said, noting that it will help enhance the skills of PAF pilots.

Under the leadership of Gen. dela Cruz, the PAF acquired C-130 cargo planes, eight Polish-made Sokol combat utility helicopters, and 18 basic trainer aircraft.

“Kasabay naman ng pagkakaloob sa inyo ng mga makabagong kagamitan, itinataguyod na rin natin ang maayos na pamumuhay ng inyong pamilya.

“Tuloy-tuloy ang ating programang pabahay, mga proyektong pangkabuhayan, at ang paglalatag ng mga stratehiya para matutukan ang kapakanan, maging ng mga nagreretirong sundalo,” he said. “Sa nakalipas na halos apat na taon, nakamit natin ang positibong bunga ng ating mabuting pamamahala.”

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=638093

President Aquino leads Air Force change of command ceremony in Lipa City

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): President Aquino leads Air Force change of command ceremony in Lipa City

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday led the change of command ceremony of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), praising the leadership of its outgoing chief Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz.

In his message during the event held at the Fernando Air Base here, President Aquino said he made the right choice when he appointed Gen. dela Cruz to head the Air Force more than two years ago.

“Malinaw naman po. Hindi tayo nagkamali sa pagpili kay Lt. Gen. dela Cruz na pamunuan ang ating Hukbong Himpapawid. Mas matayog ang naging tagumpay, at mas lumakas ang puwersa ng ating Air Force mula nang siya ay manungkulan,” he said.

Dela Cruz spearheaded professionalism in the Air Force to ensure that the PAF served the people well, he said.

He recalled that during Gen. dela Cruz’s tenure, the single C-130 in the Air Force inventory was able to do its job, transporting equipment, weapons and personnel to different areas of the country.

When Typhoon "Sendong" hit the Visayas and Mindanao in 2011, this C-130 became the military’s workhorse in its relief operations, he added.

The Air Force also became a leading arm of the government in responding to the attack of Muslim rebels in Zamboanga City, as well as when a strong earthquake hit Cebu and Bohol, the President said.

He also said that the PAF made a major contribution in the government’s search and relief efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon "Yolanda" in the Visayan region last year.

“Nang nangailangan ang ating mga kababayan, walang dalawang-isip na sumuong sa disaster area ang ating unipormadong hanay. Hindi po kalabisang sabihin na nadala kayo ng magandang halimbawa ng inyong mga pinuno. Sa hanay nga po ng Air Force, nariyan ang inyong pangkalahatang piloto na si Lt. Gen. dela Cruz na gumabay sa inyo sa matuwid na direksyon,” he said.

The President further noted that under the leadership of Gen. dela Cruz, the Air Force experienced a more aggressive modernization thrust.

The Air Force now has three C-130 cargo planes, eight Polish-made Sokol combat utility helicopters, and 18 basic trainer aircraft being used by student pilots, he said.

President Aquino also led the retirement ceremony for Gen. dela Cruz.

Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado is the new head of PAF. A seasoned combat pilot, Gen. Delgado is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1982.

Prior to his appointment as the 33rd PAF head, Gen. Delgado was the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans (J5).

He earned a Masters degree in Development Management from the Asian Institute of Management in 1999 and a Masters degree in Business Administration from De La Salle University in 1987. He also attended a Joint War Fighting, Joint Transition Course in Virginia, the US.

Among those present during the ceremony were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Rep. Mark Leandro Mendoza, Rep. Francisco Acedillo, Vice Governor Mark Leviste, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=638091

OPAPP denies NDF allegations of being prohibited from visiting Tiamzon couple

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): OPAPP denies NDF allegations of being prohibited from visiting Tiamzon couple
 
There is no truth to the allegations made by two members of the National Democratic Front (NDF) that they were prohibited from visiting the Tiamzon couple who are currently detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center.

"The assertion being circulated by Randall Echanis and Rafael Baylosis of the NDF that they were denied access to visit Benito and Wilma Tiamzon at the PNP Custodial Center without an explanation is not true," said the Government of the Philippines peace panel negotiating with the communist rebels in a statement on Friday.

It can be recalled that Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) chairman Benito Tiamzon and his wife, Wilma were arrested in Cebu last month by the PNP.

Mr. Tiamzon is included on the "Big Five" fugitive list alongside fellow New People’s Army (NPA) leader Jorge Madlos.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), in a statement, said that the PNP duty officer on April 13 (the day the visit was held), had already clarified to them that, as a matter of standard operating procedure, they need at least one week to process requests for visits.

Enchanis and Baylosis handed their request letter only on the day of visit.

“In light of this, the PNP regretfully informed Enchanis and Baylosis that they could not favorably grant the request and they were advised to reschedule their visit,” the OPAPP said in a statement.

It further explained that although visits are given the highest priority for immediate relatives, counsels, or their doctors, all others who do not fall under these categories have to undergo the usual scrutiny and process, which require an application submitted days in advance.

“With the distorted information being issued by the NDF, the government peace panel is constrained from making its usual ready endorsement to the PNP relative to their request made through Issa Dumanjug Palo, NDF Monitoring Committee for Human Rights secretariat head, for a rescheduled visit to the Tiamzons,” the OPAPP said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=638103

PAF shopping list has jets, choppers, patrol craft, flight simulators - Aquino

From InterAksyon (Apr 25): PAF shopping list has jets, choppers, patrol craft, flight simulators - Aquino



President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Retirement Ceremony of Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz and Philippine Air Force (PAF) Change of Command at the Air Education and Training Command (AETC) Grandstand, Fernando Air Base (FAB) in Lipa City, Batangas on Friday (April 25, 2014). Also in photo is newly assumed 33rd Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commanding General Major Gen. Jeffrey Delgado. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday challenged newly installed Philippine Air Force commanding general Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado to continue the good performance of the PAF under the leadership of its outgoing chief, Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz, as he unveiled the next wave of acquisitions planned for the Air Force.

”And so, Jeff, I’ve known you for a long time. I don’t know much about Larry, but his performance is very commendable. Now, I think you know what I should expect from you, double it,” President Aquino told Delgado in Filipino during the PAF change-of-command and retirement ceremony at the Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas.

The President said he expected new PAF chief Delgado to use his vast experience to achieve the modernization of the Air Force.

”He (Delgado) knows the needs of the Air Force which we have to deliver and he will serve as chief adviser towards the direction of modernizing the Air Force so that will improve more our services,” President Aquino stressed.

The President announced the acquisition of new FA50 aircraft from South Korea beginning next year as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program.

”Likewise, our target is also to purchase eight combat utility helicopters; six close air support aircraft, two long-range patrol aircraft, and radar systems. Aside from these, we also plan to purchase full motion flight simulator to increase the capability of our pilots,” he said.

President Aquino cited outgoing chief Dela Cruz for his dedication to serve the PAF for the last two years, especially in the delivery of goods and services for the victims of natural calamities despite limited resources.

”When we started, we had only one C-130 aircraft being used to deliver tons of military equipment, military personnel and relief goods in the affected areas. But it did not stop your forces from doing your duties when typhoons Sendong hit the Visayas and Mindanao in 2011,” the President said.

Two years later, the President noted, the PAF again displayed enormous dedication and courage to serve when a big part of the Visayas was devastated by super typhoon "Yolanda," considered as the world’s strongest cyclone, that left over 5,000 people dead and thousands of others homeless.

”Right after the typhoon, our helicopters with soldiers on board arrived in Tacloban to open the airport. Within two hours, our three C-130 planes landed at the Tacloban airport and they were able to deliver relief goods and brought the injured to the hospital in Tacloban,” President Aquino said.

”What I mean is, if your leadership has entertained first your fear, your personal interest; if our armed forces did not think first of their commitment to serve with honesty and dedication, many of the victims would have not been given immediate assistance,” he added.

With their show of courage and dedication, President Aquino commended Dela Cruz for guiding and leaving good examples both to the PAF leadership and personnel.

He noted that Delgado served in the Presidential Security Group (PSG) during the term of his mother, the late former President Corazon Aquino. He said Delgado also served as his senior military aide in the first two years of his term as President.

Delgado on Friday vowed to waste no time to propel the command with the incoming modern air defense assets.

“As the new pilot in command I will increase PAF pressure and add more thrusts to propel the organization in-step with the defense establishment, the national government and our valued stakeholders,” Delgado, said in his speech.

Delgado vowed to continue his predecessors' goal of improving the PAF's firepower.

 “I am grateful to…all the previous commanding generals of PAF for bringing us closer to the vision of professional and competent Air Force responsive to national security. In this important period in our history, [we should exert more effort in] enabling the defense establishment to shift its focus to the more pressing concerns of territorial defense. The goal is to have a credible defense posture, to pursue the ends of policy and protect our core interest,” he said.

Recently, the Department of National Defense forged an agreement with the Republic of Korea for the procurement of 12 units of lead-in training fighter jets (FA-50 “Golden Eagle”) from the Korean Aerospace, Inc. (KAI). The project is worth almost P19 billion.

“The initial delivery starting this year of various advance aircraft, new radars and modern equipment will translate to increased capabilities for air defense, maritime security and national development,” Delgado said.

“Propelling the Air Force to ably perform its mandate into the future will require learning strategy and character. Learning as we begin to receive and employ new weapon systems of higher technology and sophistication," said Delgado.

"Strategy as we have smartly harness our enhanced capabilities to address current and emerging challenges in our environment. Character as every airman should be a bedrock of discipline, law and order, practitioner of sound core values and a warrior armed with a winning attitude,” he added.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/85453/paf-shopping-list-has-jets-choppers-patrol-craft-flight-simulators---aquino