Armed men abduct DENR contractors in Compostela Valley

From the Manila Bulletin Breaking News (May 31): Armed men abduct DENR contractors in Compostela Valley

Six sub-contractors of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were abducted by unidentified armed men at around 2 p.m. on Friday, May 30 in Barangay New Leyte, Maco town in Compostela Valley province, the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army said.

Army Captain Ernest Carolina, information officer of the 10th ID said  the sub-contractors from Manila were conducting validation for the implementation of the National Greening Program (NGP) in the area when the abduction took place.

The Army did not identify any group responsible for the abduction as of press time.

Elements of the 1001st Brigrade under Col. Angelito de Leon are now conducting pursuit operations in the area.

http://www.mb.com.ph/armed-men-abduct-denr-contractors-in-compostela-valley/

Armed men seize 6 DENR subcontractors in Compostela Valley

.From InterAksyon (May 31): Armed men seize 6 DENR subcontractors in Compostela Valley



Unidentified armed men abducted Friday six subcontractors of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) from Manila doing work for the National Greening Program in Barangay New Leyte, Maco, Compostela Valley.

The 10th Infantry Division identified the victims as Kendrick Wong,Nico, Lasaca, Chris Favila, Mathew Chua, Jonas Loredo, and Tim Sabino.

The military said they were “conducting validation to the Maco CENRO (Community Environment an at around 2 p.m., and then “brought to unknown direction.”

Early this week, Laak town Mayor Reynaldo Navarro was ambushed and killed by still unidentified armed men initially reported as members of the New People’s Army, but the NPA disowned the incident. Two of the six armed men were also killed by the security escorts of the mayor.

Navarro’s driver and two police escorts were seriously wounded. Two civilian bystanders were also hit by stray bullets.

Until now the police face a blank wall on the motive for the killing.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/88009/armed-men-seize-6-denr-subcontractors-in-compostela-valley

Japan plans more proactive role in Asian security

From Rappler (May 31): Japan plans more proactive role in Asian security

Laying out a vision of Tokyo as a counterweight to the growing might of China, Abe offers Japan's help to regional partners 'to ensure security of the seas and skies'



SPEECH. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gives the keynote address on the first day of The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) 13th Asia Security Summit in Singapore, 30 May 2014. Photo by How Hwee Young/EPA

SINGAPORE – Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe vowed Friday, May 30, that his country would play a larger role in promoting peace in Asia, and called for the rule of law to be upheld in the region.

Laying out a vision of Tokyo as a counterweight to the growing might of China, Abe offered Japan's help to regional partners "to ensure security of the seas and skies."

He said Japan and the United States stood ready to bolster security cooperation with Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"Japan intends to play an even greater and more proactive role than it has until now in making peace in Asia and the world something more certain," he said in a keynote speech at an annual Asia security forum in Singapore.

Abe said Japan will provide 10 new coast guard patrol ships to the Philippines, which has one of Asia's most poorly equipped security forces.

He said 3 such vessels have already been provided to Indonesia and Vietnam may receive similar assistance.

Abe delivered his speech as tensions simmer over territorial disputes, involving China and some Southeast Asian states in the South China Sea as well as between Tokyo and Beijing in the East China Sea.

Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, even waters approaching the shores of neighboring countries, and has become more aggressive in enforcing what it says are its historical rights.

In the latest tensions, Vietnam on Thursday, May 29, accused Chinese war ships of pointing their weapons at Vietnamese vessels during an escalating standoff near an oil rig in contested waters in the South China Sea.

The Philippines has also faced increasingly tense disputes with China for control of islets and reefs in the sea.

In one high-profile incident in 2012, the Philippines lost control of a rich fishing ground 220 kilometers (135 miles) off its main island to China after a standoff.

China is also in dispute with Japan over islands in the East Sea, which Tokyo calls Senkaku and Beijing refers to as Diaoyu. Tokyo has control over the outcrops.

On May 25, Japan accused China of "dangerous" maneuvers in the area after a Chinese fighter flew within roughly 30 meters (100 feet) of a Japanese military aircraft.

"We do not welcome dangerous encounters by fighter aircraft and vessels at sea," Abe said, reiterating a call for both countries to establish a maritime and air communication mechanism in order to prevent unexpected situations.

Abe repeatedly used the phrase "rule of law" during his speech, urging nations to respect international norms in dealing with territorial rows, avoiding coercion in enforcing claims and settling disputes by peaceful means.

"I urge all of us who live in Asia and the Pacific to each individually uphold these 3 principles exhaustively," he said at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a security forum involving defense chiefs, military officials and security experts.

"Movement to consolidate changes to the status quo by aggregating one fait accompli after another can only be strongly condemned as something that contravenes the spirit of these 3 principles," he said, without mentioning any country.

Abe told the forum that talks were under way in his country about Japan's pacifist armed forces taking on a more pro-active role in security.

Japan's Self Defense Forces have not fired a shot in battle since a battered and broken country surrendered in 1945, accepting a US-led occupation that would last until 1952.

Its once-huge armed forces were emasculated, stripped by the foreign-imposed constitution of the right to wage war and restricted to a defensive role.

Speaking ahead of Abe on the sidelines of the Singapore meeting, Fu Ying, the head of the foreign affairs committee of China's parliament, said the Japanese leader did not appear "to show any interest in addressing" their bilateral dispute.

Fu said Abe was trying to use the dispute as an excuse to "amend the security policy of Japan," adding that this is "what is worrying to the region, and for China".

http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/59302-japan-plans-more-proactive-role-asian-security

Foreign women abducted from Semporna rescued, no ransom paid, says Najib

From MSN News (May 30): Foreign women abducted from Semporna rescued, no ransom paid, says Najib

The Chinese tourist and Filipina resort worker who were abducted at a resort off Semporna, Sabah, have been rescued by Philippine security forces after almost two months of captivity. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak tweeted this evening that cooperation between Malaysian and Philippine security forces secured the release of Chinese...



The Chinese tourist and Filipina resort worker who were abducted at a resort off Semporna, Sabah, have been rescued by Philippine security forces after almost two months of captivity.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak tweeted this evening that cooperation between Malaysian and Philippine security forces secured the release of Chinese national Gao Hua Yuan and Filipina resort worker Marcy Dayawan @ Mimi.

"I have just been briefed by @PDRMsia that the two women abducted from a resort in Sabah last Apr have been rescued by our authorities.

"We are taking steps to facilitate the return of the Chinese national to her home as soon as possible.

"No ransom paid to secure their release. Success due to cooperation of Malaysia and Philippines security forces. I thank all involved," Najib tweeted.

On April 2, seven gunmen entered the resort at night and abducted 29-year-old Gao from Shanghai and 40-year-old Marcy from the Singamata Reef Resort.

It was reported that Malaysian authorities believed the Abu Sayyaf, an Islamist militant group based in and around the southern Philippines, was behind the abduction and that they had help on the inside.

Following Gao and Marcy's kidnapping in April, a police official in Sabah had revealed that the abduction was also likely to have involved resort staff.

"The Abu Sayyaf has been active in the area over the past 15 years and have been responsible for a string of kidnappings," the official had informed The Malaysian Insider on condition of anonymity.

"In many cases, the victims were released after a substantial ransom was paid. Last night's case is expected to be no different," he said.

The incident was one of three in the past seven months involving a breach in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone established after the Lahad Datu "invasion" by Sulu forces early last year.

In November last year, Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei was abducted from the Pom Pom island resort while her partner, Li Min Hsu was shot dead.

Chang was freed a month later after a substantial ransom was paid to the Abu Sayyaf via intermediaries.

Earlier this month, Chinese national Yang Zai Lin, 34, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf gunmen from a fish farm near Pulau Babi, Lahad Datu, and taken away in a speedboat.

Despite Malaysia's security dragnet, the kidnappers managed to escape into international waters and were believed to have headed for southern Philippines.

Yang, a Guangzhou native, had been running the fish farm for three years. The farm is owned by Hong Kong-based Wonderful Terrace Sdn Bhd.

Yang was taken away by five men dressed in army fatigues. At least three of them were said to be armed with M-16 assault rifles.

The Abu Sayyaf is an Islamic militant group which rose to prominence in the 1990s as they fought for an independent Islamic province in the Philippines.

Its members have been known to be involved in bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortion activities.--May 30, 2014.



http://news.malaysia.msn.com/tmi/foreign-women-abducted-from-semporna-rescued-no-ransom-paid-says-najib

Two killers of Laak mayor identified

From Solar News (May 30): Two killers of Laak mayor identified

Two assailants who died during the ambush which killed Laak, Compostela Valley mayor Reynaldo Navarro in Asuncion, Davao del Norte last Wednesday (May 28) were identified by the authorities after their wives claimed their bodies on Thursday afternoon (May 29).

 

The two, who died in a firefight with Navarro's security escorts, were identified as Nestor Torredes and Simeon Roma. Their wives said that they were not aware of the activities of their husbands, nor did they know who their spouses were working for.

 

The police, however, admitted that despite the identification of the two assailants, they are still clueless about the motive behind the murder of Mayor Navarro especially since the New People's Army (NPA) denied they had a hand in the ambush.

 

In a statement released by the NPA Regional Operations Command Southern Mindanao Region, the group said did not consider mayor Navarro "an enemy that warrants a standing order or a recipient of a death sentence."

 

The rebel group earlier accused Navarro of being one of the big four logging lords in Compostela Valley. The mayor however denied the accusation.

 

http://www.solarnews.ph/news/regional/2014/05/30/two-killers-of-laak-mayor-identified#.U4ixAMZOWAI

P100M fish port, power plant inaugurated in M(N)LF community in Tawi-Tawi

From the Philippine Star (May 30): P100M fish port, power plant inaugurated in M(N)LF community in Tawi-Tawi

Former combatants of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) lauded the establishment of fish port complex and diesel-fed power plant in a residential community in the remote island town of Languyan, Tawi-Tawi, a statement from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said.

The projects, expected to be operational within the year, were serve as  efforts of the government to continuously engage with the MNLF community as part of the 1996 final peace agreement, according to OPAPP Secretary Teresita Deles.

The combined cost of the two projects is about P100-million. The projects were formally inaugurated by the local government unit of Languyan town, Tawi-Tawi, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), together with OPAPP officials under the PAMANA or (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or Peaceful and Resilient Communities).

The PAMANA program, an inter-agency effort headed by the OPAPP, began its projects upon the assumptionof President Bengino S. Aquino III in 2010. The program implements  developmental projects in areas that have been adversely affected by previous armed conflicts that resulted in economic depressions.

Kublai Elias, an MNLF junior officer and the leader of Languyan’s fisherfolks, was elated over the new fish port terminal, saying it will bring more economic opportunities to the people in their town, which only gained noticed sometime in 1992 when it was identified as among the areas in Asia that would witness a total solar eclipse.

Elias said his vision on  improving  the economic plight of their communities has been reinforced by the government intervention as a result of the peace agreement.

“These economic interventions in our town show the sincerity of both parties (government and the MNLF) for us to benefit from the fruits of the peace agreement. It indicates a genuine engagement that the two sides can work together for the interests of those people who have suffered during the armed conflicts,” he said.

Languyan Mayor Yshmael  Sali said the fish port will turn the town as one of the top producers of marine products in the country.

The local chief executive was also optimistic that in energizing the town it will also attract investors to put up fish canneries and other processed marine production plant.

Sali said there were intentions before by investors to put up plants. However, due to the lack of power supply and insufficient infrastructure all the plans were left out.

“Thanks to PAMANA as we can revive those investment intentions,” Sali said.

ARMM-BFAR Secretary Janice Musali said the fish port in Languyan is the biggest infrastructure project they appropriated under the PAMANA program for the entire ARMM region for this year.

Musali said Languyan has huge potential as many commercial fishing vessels are operating in the high seas off Languyan.

“The island province of Tawi-Tawi is rich with marine resources in addition to the pristine and unspoiled beaches and diving sites that it naturally possesses,” she said.

Elais said socio-economic investments are needed to shore up progress and development, especially in areas that have lagged behind due to security-related issues.

“The bottom line here is to transform these depressed areas into better communities where economic growth and peace reign.  And that’s the ultimate goal for the Bangsamoro people,” Elais said.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/05/30/1329130/p100m-fish-port-power-plant-inaugurated-milf-community-tawi-tawi

Taguig warns Army vs Libingan eviction

From the Philippine Star (May 31): Taguig warns Army vs Libingan eviction

The Philippine Army should not push through with its scheduled eviction of some 2,000 families from the Libingan ng mga Bayani this Monday, the Taguig City government said yesterday.

The Philippine Army’s Task Group Bantay (PATGB), in a notice of eviction dated May 22 and signed by Capt. Edgar Torre, advised the residents to dismantle their homes and voluntarily leave within seven days of receiving the notice.

According to the notice, the task group said the residents have “illegally occupied” Katipunan Village, which is composed of Sitio Masagana, Sitio Masigasig, Sitio Maliwanag and Sitio Matatag in Barangay Western Bicutan.

The land is “government property for National Shrine purposes pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 208 series of 1967,” the notice read.

The eviction notice added that the Supreme Court (SC) third division declared in its July 21, 2006 decision that Katipunan Village is indeed part of Libingan ng mga Bayani.

The PATGB, in the eviction notice, added that the SC’s first division, on June 5, 2013, denied for lack of merit the petition by the Nagkakaisang Maralita ng Sitio Masigasig for the reclassification of the area as alienable and disposable land. The Army said the decision became final on Aug. 5, 2013.

In its notice, the task group also said the eviction and demolition on Monday will be done in coordination with the city government.

No coordination, consultation

However, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano said no coordination or consultation was made by the task group with the city government on the eviction and demolition on Monday.

“The meeting you called on May 21 can hardly qualify as coordination. During that meeting, you merely announced that the demolition will push through. The local agencies registered their strong objections and reminded (the task group) of the Urban Development and Housing Act (Republic Act 7279) and its implementing rules and regulations,” Cayetano said in her urgent letter to Col. Ramon Estella, the task group’s commanding officer.

Cayetano’s letter was personally delivered by Taguig city officials and leaders of the affected community to the PATGB’s headquarters yesterday afternoon.

“You simply ignored their objections and reminders and declared that you would rather face the charges that would be hurled against you in court. In other words, you made it appear in your notice of eviction that you have consulted the matter with the local government when in fact, no consultation transpired,” she added in her letter to Estella.

Cayetano also reminded the task group that the SC decision is silent on the eviction of any party.

“In fact, PATGB has not produced any writ of execution or demolition. The decision by itself does not give imprimatur for PATGB to evict residents and demolish their homes,” she said.

Illegal demolition

Cayetano said the Army’s scheduled demolition on Monday is illegal as it violated the RA 7279, particularly on its failure to serve the 30-day notice to the residents, lack of consultation with the affected families, failure to conduct a pre-demolition conference, failure to provide any relocation, and failure to secure a certificate of compliance.

Cayetano added that should the demolition push through, the PATGB would also violate the Constitution.

The PATGB said it is not covered by RA 7279, but Cayetano said while a provision of the law provides that lands used as cemeteries and memorial parks are exempt from the coverage of the law, “the area being occupied by the residents of Katipunan Village is merely ‘reserved’ and has not been primarily and actually used as a national shrine.”

“The residents even question the fact that parts of the Libingan ng mga Bayani were used for other purposes such as the operation of a private sewerage treatment plant,” Cayetano said.

Leaders of the affected communities said they will not allow the demolition to happen and are prepared to erect barricades on Monday, if needed.

According to the community leaders, the families in the affected area – mostly retired soldiers and their families – were granted permission by the Army to erect houses in the 1990s.

Cayetano said that should violence erupt on Monday, the PATGB will be held accountable by the city government.

“We cannot close our eyes to the untold sufferings that the demolition would cause on the residents. We cannot also discount the possible occurrence of violence that can compromise public safety. Considering the foregoing, we demand that you desist from evicting the residents and demolishing their homes. Needless to stress, we will hold you accountable for the consequences of your actions. We trust that we have made our position clear,” she said.

http://www.philstar.com/metro/2014/05/31/1329302/taguig-warns-army-vs-libingan-eviction

Three rebels killed in separate clashes

From the Manila Times (May 30): Three rebels killed in separate clashes

THREE members of communist New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in clashes with government troops in Mindanao and Visayas.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson Capt. Alberto Caber said two rebels were killed on Friday when soldiers of the 30th Infantry Battalion and some 200 rebels clashed at the vicinity of Mt. Taglinitian in Barangay Tagbugayawan in Mainit town, Surigao del Sur.

Caber said the rebels later withdrew, leaving behind four high-powered firearms that include an M653, M14 and AK47 assault rifles.

On Thursday, troops from the 34th Infantry Batallion of the 8th Infantry Division encountered NPA members at Barangay Osang in Catubig, Northern Samar.

In a report to the headquarters, Lt. Col. Rodrigo Illustrisimo, commanding officer of the 34th Infantry Batallion, said his troops were on routine security operations when they were fired upon by more or less 15 heavily-armed rebels.

The 15-minute firefight resulted to the death of one rebel and recovery of M14 rifle and two M14 rifle magazines loaded with ammunition.

Illustrisimo said pursuing troops from the 43rd Infantry Batallion also clashed with NPA rebels at Brgy. Mahayag, Matuginao, Samar with no reported casualties on both sides.

Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commander of the 8th Infantry Division said enlistment of the underground movement in Samar continues to dwindle, resulting from heavy casualties in encounters, voluntary surrender and capture.

Velarmino expressed confidence that they would be able to win the war with the rebels before the year ends.

“These are the reasons why I am very optimistic that we can hand over the internal security operation to the LGUs (local government units) of Samar and Northern Samar by June and December 2014 respectively,” he said.

Meanwhile, two militiamen were killed and five were injured when a 40 mm ammunition for grenade launcher exploded inside the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) detachment in Manaoan, Masbate.

Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the 903rd Infantry Brigade, said the two CAFGU active auxiliaries (CAA) expired while being treated at the Masbate Provincial Hospital while the injured were airlifted to Legazpi City.

Initial report said one of the militiaman was cleaning his rifle when he accidentally pressed its trigger, releasing the 40mm ammunition that exploded.

“This command will conduct immediate investigation on the incident to determine possible infraction of regulations or SOPs (standard operating procedures) and prevent its recurrence in the future,” Kakilala said.

http://www.manilatimes.net/three-rebels-killed-in-separate-clashes/100371/

CPP/NDF-EV: Repudiate the traitor Noynoy Aquino for selling out the Yolanda survivors and Philippine sovereignty

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (May 29): Repudiate the traitor Noynoy Aquino for selling out the Yolanda survivors and Philippine sovereignty

Fr. Santiago Salas (Ka Sanny)
Spokesperson
NDFP Eastern Visayas Chapter

 

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Eastern Visayas today condemned the puppet president Benigno Aquino III, who is visiting the region, for taking advantage of the people after the devastation caused by supertyphoon Yolanda to justify the launching here of US naval exercises this June. “We strongly condemn the holding of US naval exercises in the waters off Tacloban City, Leyte and other parts of the Eastern Visayas this June, dubbed as Pacific Partnership 2014, and ostensibly for reasons of humanitarian aid and disaster reponse,” said Fr. Santiago Salas, NDFP-EV spokesperson. “But these exercises by US and Philippine forces as well as other allies will be carried out under the aegis of the treasonous Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the US and Philippine governments. The puppet Philippine government and its US imperialist master should be despised for taking advantage of the people’s sufferings after Yolanda to make the large-scale presence of US and other foreign troops seem acceptable. In fact, under the guise of “humanitarian response” that is included in the EDCA, the US retains access rights to Tacloban and Mactan airports, as well as the airstrip and naval port in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, even long after the participation of US forces in the Yolanda relief operations.”

Fr. Salas recalled that the US “humanitarian response” after Yolanda constituted virtual gunboat diplomacy, even as some international humanitarian agencies had to undergo the Philippine government’s red tape before they could get to the typhoon victims. “After supertyphoon Yolanda struck last November 8, 2013, the US promptly dispatched 13,400 military personnel, 66 aircraft and 12 naval vessels to Tacloban City and Guiuan. Thus afterwards, the US found it expedient to include the humanitarian aid and disaster response aspect to the EDCA to justify its large troop presence. Despite the lip service to humanitarianism, the US troops convey the political, economic and military objectives of an imperialist superpower.”

The NDFP-EV spokesperson said the EDCA tramples on national sovereignty and should be vigorously resisted by the people. “The EDCA essentially makes the entire Philippines a US military and naval base. The US troops in so-called Agreed Locations are granted full authority to carry out whatever military operations in their camps, store any weapons including nuclear ones, and deny access to Philippine civilian and military officials. Since 2010, US warships have increasingly used the Philippines. According to the US Navy, 51 of its warships came to the Philippines in 2010, 54 in 2011, 88 in 2012, and 72 in the first half of 2013 alone. Aside from trampling on Philippine sovereignty, the US will also surely make the Philippines as its launching pad for military interrvention and wars of aggression against other countries where it has imperialist interests.”

Fr. Salas branded Aquino a traitor for ensuring the EDCA between the US and Philippine governments, and called on the people to intensify their revolutionary struggle. “Noynoy Aquino called the people his boss, but US imperialism is his real boss. Noynoy Aquino shamelessly uses the Yolanda survivors as the doormats for the US troops. Through its subservience to US imperialism, the puppet Aquino government is revealed as having no interest in genuine reconstruction for the region after Yolanda. Genuine reconstruction means, aside from humanitarian assistance, economic recovery through agrarian reform and national industrialization. But the Aquino government is instead paving the way for big business cronyism, big landlordism, imperialist mining,and widespread corruption.

“Thus the millions of Yolanda survivors and the rest of the people are inflamed to fight for their democratic and anti-imperialist interests. They must vigorously expose and oppose the US Pacific Partnership 2014 naval exercises and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. They must resolutely fight in the revolutionary mass struggle and revolutionary armed struggle.”

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140529_repudiate-the-traitor-noynoy-aquino-for-selling-out-the-yolanda-survivors-and-philippine-sovereignty

CPP/NDF-EV: Rise up against the Aquino regime’s criminal abandonment of the Yolanda survivors

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (May 29): Rise up against the Aquino regime’s criminal abandonment of the Yolanda survivors

Fr. Santiago Salas (Ka Sanny)
Spokesperson
NDFP Eastern Visayas Chapter

 

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Eastern Visayas condemns in the strongest possible terms the Aquino regime’s criminal abandonment of the survivors of supertyphoon Yolanda, which led to the deaths yesterday, May 28, of Maria Elisa Ocenar and her six young children in a fire at the “tent city” in San Jose, Tacloban City, Leyte. “The NDFP-EV sympathizes with the Ocenar family and we join the people in collective outrage at Benigno Simeon Aquino III for his criminal abandonment of the Yolanda survivors,” NDFP-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago Salas said. “Who killed Maria Elisa Ocenar and her children Justin, Jacqueline, Jasmine, Dominick, John Mark and Kathleen? We say it is Aquino himself for letting these victims and many other Yolanda survivors live in inhuman conditions six months after supertyphoon Yolanda, despite the outpouring of international humanitarian aid as well as promises of government support.”

Fr. Salas assailed Aquino, who is due to visit Eastern Visayas this May 30, as a heartless and corrupt criminal who pretends to be facilitating billions of pesos of humanitarian aid for the Yolanda survivors, who in reality are left to fend for themselves. “Ocenar and the children lived in a tent subject to the elements and a fire hazard as well. They lived on relief donations. The children’s father was working far away in Samar to support his young family. The Ocenar family’s abject situation reflects the conditions among the vast majority of Yolanda survivors in Eastern Visayas. It is half a year after supertyphoon Yolanda but the people are still fighting to stay alive. What else is there to say: the Aquino government does not care about the Yolanda survivors, and it is looting the humanitarian aid and covering up the real plight of the survivors by claiming that everything is all right.”

The NDFP-EV spokesperson called on the people to rise up against the disastrous Aquino regime. "It begs belief that the young Ocenar family, which survived supertyphoon Yolanda, should be killed because the Aquino government is a bigger disaster. The Yolanda survivors, the people, are fuming with rage at the criminal Aquino government over the killing of the Ocenar family. They must bring their rage to the streets. They must demand justice for the Ocenar family and all Yolanda survivors. They must apeal to the international humanitarian agencies to stop aiding the Aquino regime since their help is not reaching the people. They can appeal that international aid still continue but be delivered directly to the communities and the mass organizations of the people.

“They must demand genuine reconstruction after Yolanda based on national sovereignty, economic emancipation and self-reliance. They must shake the Aquino government to its foundations for continuing to lie, steal and oppress. If the people accumulate enough strength, they can bring down the Aquino regime to the same ignominious end as the Marcos and Estrada regimes that it richly deserves.”

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140529_rise-up-against-the-aquino-regime-s-criminal-abandonment-of-the-yolanda-survivors

MILF: “Our trust with President Aquino is fully intact”: MILF

From the MILF Website (May 30): “Our trust with President Aquino is fully intact”: MILF



Time and again, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has consistently said that it never doubted the sincerity of President Benigno C. Aquino III in resolving the decades-old Mindanao Question.
  

In its editorial, dated May 22, 2014, Luwaran.com, the Moro Front’s Committee on Information official website, the MILF says that, “For the nth time we say that our trust with President Benigno Aquino III is fully intact and we know how he is committed to make the resolution of the Bangsamoro Question as his best legacy to the people in this country”.

In the said editorial, the MILF expressed its concern on the fate of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) it submitted to the Office of the President (OP) last April 22, 2014 or one month and eight days had passed as of press time.

“But sure enough, the dose of medicine contained in the BBL, as crafted by the BTC, will not please everybody’s taste. This includes people whose vocation and forte is to see only the legal side of the document or argument. In such an eventuality, the long haul ahead can be predicted”, the MILF said further.

“On the side of the BTC, it has never doubted that this engagement with the OP is forthcoming, because there is no other way to handle it. With heart and soul, the BTC commissioners have poured it all in crafting this historic document. All of the 15 commissioners, except one, signed the BBL”, said the MILF.

 “For the MILF, there will be no open engagement vis-à-vis BBL, except perhaps by those connected with the peace negotiation. But surely, it will monitor the movement of the document very closely. Any slip in the handling can spell a great difference. This can only be averted through strong partnership with government”, the MILF continued saying.
 It reminded that, “The proposed BBL is supposed to be the start of the work to legislate a political agreement contained in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

 This is the reason that most of the provisions of the BBL were copy pasted from signed documents; others were culled from recommendations from civil society organizations (CSOs), non-government organizations (NGOs), local government units (LGUs), peace workers and individuals; and the rest to flesh out gray areas in the CAB but taking account its spirit.  For instance, the CAB merely speaks of a ministerial form of government, but it did not spell out a mechanism whereby in times of no confidence vote of the chief minister whose authority is to call for fresh election. In all or most states of the parliamentary type, including not full states such as Sabah, Sarawak, and Penang in Malaysia, such power rests with the symbolic head of the government, which they referred to as “governor”.

 With time moving so fast, the Moro Front wishes that, “All parties must tighten their belt to ensure the smooth-sailing of the BBL. For sure, we do not have the benefit of so much time at our disposal”.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1004-“our-trust-with-president-aquino-is-fully-intact”-milf

103 families flee fighting in Surigao Norte

From MindaNews (May 30): 103 families flee fighting in Surigao Norte

Dozens of families had fled their homes since Thursday morning (May 30, 2014) after a firefight between communist rebels and government forces in a mountainous part of Mainit town in Surigao del Norte.

Lt. Col. Arsenio Sadural, commanding officer of 30th Infantry Battalion basin in Sta. Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte said his troops clashed with some 20 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels 6:45 a.m. Thursday in Mount Taglintian in Barangay Tagbuyawan, Mainit.

He said the gunfight lasted for about an hour and resulted in the death of at least two still unidentified rebels.

He added the residents did not evacuate since the encounter occurred far from populated areas.

But Nokie Calungsag, campaign officer of Green Mindanao told MindaNews 72 families from Barangay Tapian and 31 families from Barangay Tagbuyawan fled their homes.

Calunsag said some of the evacuees sought shelter at the government-owned Kasili Resort beside Lake Mainit, while others went to their relatives’ houses in the town proper.

He said the residents were afraid that armed men might barge into their houses.

“They told me that they are going home either today (May 30) or tomorrow,” he said.

Green Mindanao, an environment group, has a project in Lake Mainit.

Sadural meanwhile said his troops recovered four long firearms (AK74 rifle, M653 rifle, M14 rifle and .22 rifle) ammunition, food supplies and documents.

He said that a few days before the encounter, they got word that NPA rebels were in the barangay to demand food and money from the residents.

“I gave orders to 1Lt. Aaron Talens, commanding officer of Charlie Company to pursue the reported lawless elements and stop them from sowing terror among communities. After identifying the area where the NPAs are frequently being monitored, the troops conducted operation that led to the encounter,” he said.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/05/30/103-families-flee-fighting-in-surigao-norte/

Troops unharmed as combat vehicle falls into creek

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (May 30): Troops unharmed as combat vehicle falls into creek

A TEAM of soldiers escaped unscathed when the Simba Light Combat Vehicle (LCV) they were riding fell into a creek along the highway in Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported Friday.

The Zamboanga del Sur Police Office (ZDSPO) reported that the incident took place around 10 a.m. Wednesday in the village of Picanan, Kumalarang municipality.

The police did not identify the soldiers aboard the ill-fated LCV except that they belong to the Army’s First Infantry “Tabak” Division.

Investigation showed that the LCV was in a convoy of light armor division led by a certain Captain Estidola en route to Zamboanga City from Camp Sang-an that house the Tabak Division headquarters in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

The police said the LCV accidentally fell into a creek due to mechanical defect while traversing the national highway along Picanan village in Kumalarang town.

“Fortunately, the driver and other personnel were not injured. The aforementioned armored car was to be check later by the mechanics to determine if any damages incurred,” the police said.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2014/05/30/troops-unharmed-combat-vehicle-falls-creek-345572

Rescued hostages to be flown to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow

From the Rakyat Post (May 30): Rescued hostages to be flown to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow



The two abducted women who were rescued by the Philippines special security forces being ushered by police in plain clothes to waiting vehicles upon arrival at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 10.05pm today.

The two abducted women, who were kidnapped from a resort in Semporna, arrived at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 10.05pm from Sandakan today.

They were quickly ushered by the police to waiting vehicles parked just outside the airport.

Gao Hua Yuan, 29, who was seen in a dark jacket and cap, sat in the backseat while Marcy Dayawan, 40, who was clad in green T-shirt and black pants, sat in the front passenger seat.

China-national Gao was kidnapped from the balcony of her room while holidaying at the Singamata Reef Resort in Semporna on April 2 by a group of armed men at around 10.30pm.

Gao, who was abducted with resort staff Marcy, a Filipina, had been kept in captivity at a location in Jolo, in the Southern Philippines, for nearly two months before they were rescued by the special security forces there at around 10am today.

They arrived at Sandakan today at 4.30pm before boarding the 9.30pm flight to Kota Kinabalu.

The duo are expected to be flown to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow morning.

The rescue of the two women were disclosed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak in a series of tweets earlier.

“I have just been briefed by @PDRMsia that the two women abducted from a resort in Sabah last April have been rescued by our authorities.

“We are taking steps to facilitate the return of the Chinese national to her home as soon as possible.

“No ransom paid to secure their release. Success due to cooperation of Malaysia & Philippines security forces. I thank all involved,” he wrote.

http://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2014/05/30/najib-two-women-kidnapped-semporna-freed/

Najib thanks security forces involved in the rescue of two hostages

From the New Straits Times (May 30): Najib thanks security forces involved in the rescue of two hostages

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today no ransom was paid in the release of two women kidnapped from the Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort, Semporna, Sabah last April.

Expressing his appreciation and thanks to the security forces for the success in securing the release of the two victims, he said the government was taking steps to facilitate the return of one of the victims, a Chinese national, to her home as soon as possible. 

 

"I have just been briefed by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) that the two women abducted from a resort in Sabah last April had been rescued by our authorities. 

 

"No ransom was paid to secure their release," he said in a Twitter update.

 

On April 2, a woman tourist from China and a female worker were abducted by a group of seven armed men at the Singamata resort, in Semporna.

 

The Chinese woman, who was a student, was identified as Gao Hua Yuan, 29, from Shanghai while the female worker was a Filipina, aged 40, who was identified as Marcy Dayawan or Mimi. 

 

The success was due to the cooperation between the Malaysian and Philippine security forces, Najib added. 

 

Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar, through his twitter account, also expressed his appreciation to the Malaysian and Philippine security forces for the close cooperation that resulted in the freeing of both victims.

 

"Many thanks to the Phillipine's Security Forces for the assistance and hard work in the release of two victims kidnapped from Semporna, Sabah.

 

"Congratulations to the Special Branch @PDRMsia, on the continued hard work that succeeded in releasing the two hostages. The victims were in good health," he said.

 

Earlier, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib confirmed that the release of the two hostages was achieved through the cooperation of the Malaysian and Philippine police.

 

However, he declined to disclose the location of the two victims currently.

http://www.nst.com.my/latest/najib-thanks-security-forces-involved-in-the-rescue-of-two-hostages-1.608432

Crew of HMAS Tobruk honoured with Philippines service medals

From the Australian Navy Daily (May 29): Crew of HMAS Tobruk honoured with Philippines service medals



Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Emmanuel Trinidad Bautista presents Leading Seaman Maritime Logistics Steward Narelle Knight with the Military Civil Action medal for her participation in Operation Philippines Assist in late 2013.

Personnel from HMAS Tobruk, the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have been awarded Military Civic Action medals by the Philippines Government for their assistance following Typhoon Haiyan in late 2013.

Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Philippines, General Emmanuel Trinidad Bautista, awarded the medals onboard Tobruk yesterday, while the Australian Landing Ship (Heavy) was alongside Fleet Base East.

[Video]

Presenting the medals to 18 grateful recipients, General Bautista said he and his country would never forget the assistance they received from Australia.

“I wanted to take the time to personally recognise and say thank you to you all by awarding you with this medal today,” General Bautista said.

Commanding Officer of Tobruk, Commander Leif Maxfield, said he was delighted with the honour for Tobruk’s Ships Company, which highlights their hard work on Operation PHILIPPINES ASSIST.

“Ships Company along with the RAAF and Army worked tirelessly during the operation to positively affect recovery in the areas devastated,” Commander Maxfield said.

“It is difficult dealing with any disaster, but this is the job we signed up for and it was rewarding to be able to offer assistance to those in need.

“Humanitarian aid and disaster relief is one of our core capabilities on Tobruk and it is something we train very hard to maintain.”



Leading Seaman Erik Catada assists the people of the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013.

Leading Seaman Erik Catada, who was born in the Philippines, said the experience was a particularly emotional for him to experience.

“The Philippines is such a beautiful place and to see the devastation was very sad,” Leading Seaman Catada said.

“The greatest thing was giving hope to the people, seeing the joy in their eyes when you have restored their schools and homes made me proud to be a part of the operation.

“To have someone say thank you for your efforts and to be formally recognised is very special,” he said.

Like many of the ships crew, Leading Seaman Narelle Knight said she found her time on Operation PHILIPPINES ASSIST a very gratifying experience and was surprised at the honour given.

“The job wasn’t easy, but we were determined to complete everything that was asked of us and the reward was seeing the difference we were making,” Leading Seaman Knight said.

“To have now received this medal, it makes me reflect on what we did and I feel very proud of my achievement, and that of my shipmates.

“It is particularly special to receive the honour from the Philippines Chief of Staff for the Armed Forces,” she said.

Four-hundred-and-eighty Australian Defence Force personnel will receive the Military Civil Action medals from the Philippines Government for meritorious achievement in the field of civic action through humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

Haiyan was recorded as one of the strongest typhoons in history, devastating the Philippines with more than 6,000 fatalities and damage in excess of 2.8 billion dollars.

Following the devastation of the typhoon, the Philippines Government reached out to Australia for support, which provided a significant amount of aid and military assistance.

Tobruk Ship's Company, along with members from the RAAF and Army, contributed to Operation Philippines Assist from late November till mid December 2013.

Tobruk is a Landing Ship Heavy, commissioned in 1981 and is based at Fleet Base East, Sydney.

http://news.navy.gov.au/en/May2014/Operations/1087#.U4ighcZOWAI

No Americans yet in Oyster Bay, says Navy spokesman

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 27): No Americans yet in Oyster Bay, says Navy spokesman



WORLD IS THEIR OYSTER Or soon it will be, as Oyster Bay and Ulugan Bay in Palawan province are being developed as a “mini-Subic” where the country’s two former US Coast Guard cutters will be based. Above, an outrigger carrying fishermen sails past a Philippine Navy vessel, one of many scattered on the bay fronting the West Philippine Sea. Oyster Bay is only 160 kilometers from the disputed Spratly Islands where China has been reclaiming Mabini Reef (Johnson South Reef) and building what appears to be an airstrip. MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

OYSTER BAY, Palawan—There are no Americans here on Oyster Bay—only a handful of Navy officers and men, with their ships that are docked at this base called Naval Station Carlito Cunanan (NSCC).

In fact, the Naval Forces West (Navforwest) denied talks that the US military is helping the Philippine Navy improve the physical structure of the Oyster Bay Navy Detachment or that it will be turned into a US naval station.

“The development plan for Oyster Bay is being done by the Philippine Navy,” said Lt. Senior Grade Jonjoe Saquiman, Navforwest spokesperson, when asked about the rumors.

The talk is that the Americans will be spearheading the Oyster Bay development after the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) is signed and the NSCC is possibly among the facilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that will be shared with US troops and their vessels.

Edca base

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista has said Oyster Bay is among his “personal” preferences for AFP facilities to be included in the agreed military locations under the Edca.

But the list of AFP camps and facilities still has to be determined based on the joint Philippine-US military activities to be approved by the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB).

Oyster Bay is essential for the Philippine Navy in guarding the country’s territories in the West Philippine Sea, part of the South China Sea within the Philippines’ 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone.

“Oyster Bay is where our pier is, and other floating assets used for stationing and refueling station …. It makes our provisioning and rotation of personnel easier and faster,” Saquiman said.

Without Oyster Bay, the Navy would have to come from the pier in Puerto Princesa City, which would take more time and resources.

Development plan

The defense establishment has earmarked P500 million for the development of Oyster Bay as well as Ulugan Bay, where the Navforwest headquarters is located.

It’s an ambitious project that would facilitate the strategic goals of the government that run in line with maritime security and awareness, and territorial defense.

Aside from the improvement of naval detachments, the plan also includes upgrading the Navy’s radar systems, which would conduct monitoring activities similar to the government’s Coast Watch System.

Funding problems, however, have reportedly delayed the full implementation of the development plan.

Two projects that are part of the development plan are going on, as the funds for them come from different sources.

The P43 million for the 11-km road from Bahile village to Oyster Bay is from the local Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The P7-million boathouse for the Navy vessels to be repaired at the NSCC is from the Navy.

Visiting the base

The construction was under way when the Inquirer went to Oyster Bay on Sunday.

It was a quiet afternoon and the sailors were doing their daily exercises.

They were accommodating and friendly, and did not have qualms about touring their small group of visitors around their vessels. In fact, they were proud to show what the Navy has got.

The crew of one of the vessels warned their visitors to walk carefully on the main platform of the pier, as the huge wooden planks were rickety.

At the opposite end of the pier was a small nipa hut where a sailor was doing his laundry. Another was strumming his guitar.

It started to get dark and as much as they wanted their visitors to stay, the Navy men advised that it was time to go. The bugs would be coming out and their bite was itchy, they said.

Open to civilians

The sailors often stay aboard their ships when darkness falls. There’s no electricity on the base, only a generator to power the whole facility.

“The Oyster Bay detachment is not a restricted facility. In fact, fishermen and civilians can go there. There are times, however, when we don’t allow visitors for security reasons,” Saquiman said.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/105165/no-americans-yet-in-oyster-bay-says-navy-spokesman

2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Surigao del Norte clash

From GMA News (May 30): 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Surigao del Norte clash

Two suspected communist rebels were killed following an encounter with government troops in Surigao del Norte Thursday, a regional military spokesperson said Friday.

Capt. Alberto Caber of the Armed Forces Eastern Mindanao Command said the clash occurred at 6:45 a.m. when patrolling troops engaged about 20 New People's Army rebels in the vicinity of Mt. Taglintian in Barangay Tagbuyawan in Mainit town.

Caber said the firefight lasted for about 30 minutes, after which the rebels withdrew.

No government casualties were reported, he added.
 

Aside from the bodies of the slain rebels, troops also recovered an M653 rifle, an AK47 rifle and a homemade cal.22 rifle.

 

Pursuit operations have since been launched against the rebels.

The outlawed NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

In April last year, the government ended formal peace talks with the National Democratic Front since the "negotiations were going nowhere." 

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363357/news/regions/2-suspected-npa-rebels-killed-in-surigao-del-norte-clash

Kidnapped Pinay worker, Sino tourist rescued by PHL, Malaysian forces

From GMA News (May 30): Kidnapped Pinay worker, Sino tourist rescued by PHL, Malaysian forces

After nearly two months, a Filipina resort worker and a Chinese tourist who were abducted from a floating resort in Sabah last April have regained their freedom, a Malaysian news site said late Friday.

 

Malaysia's New Straits Times reported the two—Marcelita Dayawan, 40, and Gao Hua Yuan, 29—were rescued Friday morning in a joint operation between Philippine and Malaysian authorities.

 

The report said the two were rescued from Jolo at 10:30 a.m., then brought to the east coast of Sabah. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib said both victims arrived there 4:30 p.m. ().

 

The report did not say if the armed men behind the abduction were from the Abu Sayyaf Group.

 

Last April 2, armed men had abducted Dayawan and Gao from the Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort.

 

Malaysian PM says no ransom paid, thanks security forces

 

A separate report on Malaysia's Bernama news agency said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak claimed no ransom was paid.

 

He also thanked the security forces for successfully securing the release of the two victims, adding the government was taking steps to facilitate the return of the Chinese home.

 

"I have just been briefed by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) that the two women abducted from a resort in Sabah last April had been rescued by our authorities. No ransom was paid to secure their release," he said.

 

"Many thanks to the Phillipine security forces for the assistance and hard work in the release of two victims kidnapped from Semporna, Sabah.

 

Congratulations to the Special Branch @PDRMsia, on the continued hard work that succeeded in releasing the two hostages. The victims were in good health," he said. 

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363465/news/nation/kidnapped-pinay-worker-sino-tourist-rescued-by-phl-malaysian-forces

2 NPA rebels killed in Surigao del Norte clash

From ABS-CBN (May 30): 2 NPA rebels killed in Surigao del Norte clash

Two suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with government troops in Mainit town, Surigao del Norte on Friday.

According to the Army's Western Mindanao Command, the 39th Infantry Battalion encountered the rebel group in the vicinity of Mt. Taglintian in Barangay Tagbuyawan.

The firefight went on for about 30 minutes before the rebels withdrew.

No casualty was reported from the side of the military.

Recovered from the area were four rifles of the rebels.

Pursuit operations against the NPA are ongoing.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/30/14/2-npa-rebels-killed-surigao-del-norte-clash

Another landmine found in North Cotabato

From ABS-CBN (May 30): Another landmine found in North Cotabato

Another improvised landmine was found in Barangay Labu-o, President Roxas, North Cotabato on Thursday morning.

Authorities said the explosive was found a few meters away from the site where a landmine was also recovered the other day.

The explosive was placed on a tree, with stones serving as a lock to prevent it from falling.

The Explosive and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team of Cotabato Provincial Police Office described the landmine as a container PVC that is 6.5 inches in diameter and 9 inches in height, and weighs 6.25 kilograms.

The military believes they were the target of the explosive.

Lt. Col. Nilo Vinluan, commander of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said the New People's Army (NPA) planted the landmine.

A total of 4 explosives have been recovered in the town of President Roxas alone within the span of 2 weeks.

The other week, 4 landmines placed in cans were also found in Barangay Luna Sur, Makilala, North Cotabato, which makes 8 explosives found in two towns in North Cotabato in less than a month.

All 8 explosives were believed to be left by the NPA.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/30/14/another-landmine-found-north-cotabato

Will Palace miss deadline on Bangsamoro law?

From ABS-CBN (May 30): Will Palace miss deadline on Bangsamoro law?

Congress is just one week away from adjourning its 1st regular session, but Malacañang is still reviewing the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law.

"Ang pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng legal staff ng Tanggapan ng Pangulo ay 'yung pagsusuri sa mga probisyon ng Bangsamoro Basic Law upang matiyak na ito ay naaayon sa Konstitusyon at maaaring maisabatas sa dalawang kamara ng ating Kongreso," Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma said.

Coloma said the Palace is aware of the sense of urgency that accompanies the bill, which is meant to institutionalize the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that the government signed with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March to end the decades-old Muslim secessionist movement in Mindanao.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte previously said Malacañang intends to submit the bill to Congress in June to allow it to enact the bill by the end of the year.

In turn, this will allow the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to hold a plebiscite in the Bangsamoro areas early next year.

Congress, however, adjourns sine die next week.

"Alam din nila na mayroong urgency ang pagpapasa nito dahil sa nakatakdang—naitakdang timetable doon sa ating roadmap to achieving the full fruition of the Bangsamoro political entity. Kaya ginagawa ng legal staff ng Tanggapan ng Pangulo ang nararapat para magampanan ang kanilang tungkulin sa pagsusuri at pag-aaral nitong Bangsamoro Basic Law, draft bill, bago ito maihain sa Pangulo para ang Pangulo naman ang magpasya hinggil dito at pagkatapos ng kanyang pagpapasya ay maisumite naman ito sa Kongreso," Coloma said.

He pointed out that even as the bill is still being finalized by the executive, Congress is also doing its work.

"Ang ating mga mambabatas sa Kongreso ay nagsasagawa na rin ng kanilang preparasyon, nag-aaral na rin sila ng iba't ibang probisyon ng Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, at patuloy naman ang ating pagsisikap na maganap ito sa takdang panahon para masunod pa rin 'yung itinakdang timetable," he said.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/30/14/will-palace-miss-deadline-bangsamoro-law

Oyster Bay fishermen worry about naval outpost

From Rappler (May 30): Oyster Bay fishermen worry about naval outpost

The sleepy barangay of Bahile in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan wakes up to a flurry of activities due to upgrades in a naval detachment in Oyster Bay

SANCTUARY: Fishing is the main livelihood of residents living around Ulugan Bay. Photo by Rappler

When they heard the choppers, residents of Barangay Bahile in Puerto Princesa City ran to the empty-lot-turned-impromptu-helipad they prepared at the back of a public elementary school. Many of them haven’t seen a chopper up close or as many military officers arriving in their small barangay. And when President Benigno Aquino III arrived and waved at them on May 27, they cheered in excitement.

The sleepy barangay of 3,000 Palaweños is seeing a lot of changes since the national government set its eyes on the underdeveloped naval detachment located in its own Oyster Bay, a bay within a bay located 160 kilometers from the disputed Kalayaan Group of Islands (Spratlys).

The flurry of activities for the Philippine Navy celebration of its 116th anniversary at the Naval Forces West headquarters in adjacent Barangay Macarascas brings the message home. Times are changing. Residents are looking forward to more development, more visitors, new job opportunities, and a livelier economy.

The national government is building roads leading to the naval detachment. There’s also talk of plans to expand their small wharf to accommodate more police maritime boats. They're hoping for help in fixing their water system, too. (READ: Construction begins in 'US base' Oyster Bay)

Concerned about restrictions

Residents raised one concern, however. Will the fishermen lose their fishing grounds when more ships begin to use Oyster Bay?

"Naitanong na rin po namin noong nagpunta dito ang naval. Paano naman kung nandiyan ang barko itong aming mangingisda? Baka naman pagbawalan silang mangisda diyan sa Ulugan Bay," Barangay Captain Carlos Quirante told Rappler.

 

(We raised our concern when the Navy came here. What happens to our fishermen when the ships are there? They might be barred from fishing in Ulugan Bay.")

Oyster Bay is inside the bigger Ulugan Bay that faces the West Philippines Sea, which is being contested by other countries such as China. Fishing is the community's main livelihood and they consider these their own fishing grounds.

Quirante is a retired navy man who was deployed in Oyster Bay in the 80s. He understands the need to secure the naval detachment once it gets busy, but his job now is to protect the interests of the barangay population.

He is counting on the assurance of the navy that Ulugan Bay will remain open to the fishermen even if Oyster Bay will be restricted.

Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron said it shouldn't be a problem because municipal waters covering 15 kilometers from shoreline are considered fishing grounds.

"Palagay ko kung ako fisherman, hindi ako matatakot ng ganoon kasi dadami ang kakain. Dadami ang demand at gaganda ang price. Mas marami ang kikitain ng fishermen," Bayron said. (If I were a fisherman, I won't be concerned because there will be higher demand for fish. The price will be better. They will earn more.)

 

 

 

BAY WITHIN A BAY: Oyster Bay is near but hidden from the West Philippines Sea

Restrictions in Oyster Bay began 5 years ago. About a hundred houses across the bay from the naval detachment were demolished when the area was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary. The families were relocated to the barangay proper.

But fishermen now are still allowed inside Oyster Bay to set up fish traps and to get water supply. (WATCH: Construction begins in 'US base' Oyster Bay)

"Sa ngayon hindi pa naman strikto sa mangingisda. Ang Oyster Bay po sa ngayon ay dine-develop pa rin. Ngayon, hirap po kami sa tubig. Malakas pa ang tubig sa Oyster Bay. Ang ibang mangingisda pumupunta po sila diyan,” said Quirante.

(They are not strict yet. Oyster Bay is currently being developed. We have difficulties with our water supply. Oyster Bay has better supply. Some of the fishermen go there.)

There are 5 water pumps in the barangay but sometimes only two have water and the others dry out. Quirante said they are working with the water district to repair their water system.

Quirante is also hoping they'll be able to use the new road connecting Oyster Bay to the highway. Oyster Bay is currently accessible only by boat.

“'Yung kalsada na bubuksan na idudugtong sa Oyster ay malaking bagay para sa mga mangingisda. Kung papayagan po 'yan na gamitin ang kalsada, malaking bagay para sa transportation para sa nahuling isda,” he said.

(The roads connecting to Oyster Bay will be a big help to the fishermen. If they will be allowed to use the roads, it will help them transport their catch.)

DEVELOPMENTS: New roads connecting Oyster Bay to the highway

EDCA and US troops

While the Philippines and the US have yet to formalize the selection of military bases that will be offered to the US, residents are already talking about Oyster Bay as an outpost that will host US troops under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

It's the naval detachment nearest the disputed maritime territories but it is hidden, offering ships protection from storms, strong winds, and the prying telescopes of foreign navies.

“Hindi pa naman po siguro pumapasok ang Kano pero meron po tayong idea diyan na mayroon share ang US Navy sa area na iyan,” said Barangay Kagawad Romeo Mopal. (There are no Americans in Oyster Bay yet but we have an idea that the US Navy has a share in that area.)

The national government alloted an initial fund of P300 million to upgrade the facilities so it can serve as an operational base for the country's newly acquired warships BRP Gregorio Del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz. (READ: PH Navy asking for 3rd warship from US)

CHOSEN BASE: The Philippines wants the US to use the Oyster Bay Naval Detachment

Despite their concern over possible restrictions on the fishing grounds, residents and barangay officials interviewed by Rappler welcome the US troops to help address the maritime conflict with China. (READ: Troops fear 'miscalculation' in next mission to Ayungin)

“Kung sa akin lang po, nararamdaman ko naman ang situation ngayon. Kung ito po ay ikagaganda ng ating national security e bakit naman po hindi natin payagan kung may project na para sa ating bansa,” Quirante said. (READ: How far will the US go to defend the Philippines)

(We understand the situation. If it will improve our national security, why shouldn't we allow a project that will benefit the country?)

 

 

Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron and Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez

Mayor Bayron said there are no talks yet about EDCA. He welcomes the Philippine Navy's improvements on Oyster Bay but he said consultations will be needed if the outpost will be offered to the US.

"Magkonsulta tayo kasi far reaching ang impact niyan kung ang pag-uusapan natin parang Subic style na concept," said Bayron. (READ: What is EDCA? Loook at Zambo's PH-US joint operations)

 

(We have to conduct consultations because the impact will be far reaching if we are talking about a Subic-style concept.)

Access to the agreed locations under EDCA has been one of the more contentious issues during the negotiations. The final deal gives the Philippines access to US facilities through a "designated authority and its authorized representative."

The mayor also assuaged concerns about the possible destruction of Palawan's marine protected sanctuaries. Environmentalists have raised fears, citing the incident in Tubbataha where a US ship destroyed corals. (READ: 1,000 sq meters of Tubbataha Reef damaged by US ship – gov't)

“Laging may compromise. Development or status quo? Pipili tayo kung saan natin gustong pumunta. Marami nagde-decide, marami nag-a-advice na mahalaga ang development basta ang destruction controlled. Pwede naman magkaroon ng balanse,” Bayron said.

 

(There's always a compromise. Development or status quo? We will choose the direction we want to pursue. There are those who say development is important as long as destruction is controlled. It can be a balance.)

Ulugan Bay is located near the world famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. Barangay residents are counting on the city government's strict environmental ordinances to protect the bay.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/59221-oyster-bay-palawan-fishermen