From ABS-CBN (Oct 22): Reds torch heavy equipment in Bukidnon
Suspected New People's Army rebels set fire to heavy equipment used for a road construction project in Barangay San Jose, San Fernando, Bukidnon, Tuesday night.
The equipment were owned by UBI Corporation, the contractors involved in the San Fernando - Davao road project.
Members of the 58th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army identified the perpetrators as members of the NPA.
The incident occured after the contractors allegedly refused to pay a revolutionary tax worth P1 million.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/22/14/reds-torch-heavy-equipment-bukidnon
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Soldier killed in CdO encounter
From Tempo (Oct 22): Soldier killed in CdO encounter
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A soldier was killed and two militiamen were wounded in an encounter with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at the boundary of Malitbog and Impasug-on here.
Malitbog Vice Mayor Garry Casino said the encounter between the troopers of the 8th Infantry Battalion and the NPA fighters occurred in Barangay San Luis the other day.
Casino said residents in the area left homes due to the encounter and for fear of escalated firefight.
Meanwhile, farmers from Medina town complained yesterday morning that they were allegedly barred by the 5th IB from entering Cagayan de Oro City.
Six ten-wheeler trucks loaded with farmers belonging to the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) were reportedly blocked in a checkpoint in Medina town.
The farmers were reportedly on their way to CdO to attend a rally.
Lt. Nimbra, commander of the 58th IB, said the checkpoint is a mere security procedure to ensure that no weapons are being brought in Cagayan de Oro City.
http://www.tempo.com.ph/2014/10/soldier-killed-in-cdo-encounter/#.VEh4eM8tBjo
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A soldier was killed and two militiamen were wounded in an encounter with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at the boundary of Malitbog and Impasug-on here.
Malitbog Vice Mayor Garry Casino said the encounter between the troopers of the 8th Infantry Battalion and the NPA fighters occurred in Barangay San Luis the other day.
Casino said residents in the area left homes due to the encounter and for fear of escalated firefight.
Meanwhile, farmers from Medina town complained yesterday morning that they were allegedly barred by the 5th IB from entering Cagayan de Oro City.
Six ten-wheeler trucks loaded with farmers belonging to the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) were reportedly blocked in a checkpoint in Medina town.
The farmers were reportedly on their way to CdO to attend a rally.
Lt. Nimbra, commander of the 58th IB, said the checkpoint is a mere security procedure to ensure that no weapons are being brought in Cagayan de Oro City.
http://www.tempo.com.ph/2014/10/soldier-killed-in-cdo-encounter/#.VEh4eM8tBjo
Photo: LOOK -- Weapons recovered from NPA in ComVal
From ABS-CBN (Oct 22): Photo: LOOK -- Weapons recovered from NPA in ComVal
The military recovered explosives and other weapons after a gun battle with forces of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pantukan, Compostela Valley Monday night.
After a gun battle with the NPA Front Committee Two, the 71st Infantry Battalion recovered two improvised explosive devices, an improvised hand grenade, a fragmentation hand grenade, two triggering devices, a three-meter long electrical wire, spent shells of M-14 bullets, a magazine and folded M-14 rifle.
The military believes this group is behind the recent extortion activities in Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan towns in Compostela Valley, where small-scale miners and other mining companies are based.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/22/14/look-weapons-recovered-npa-comval
The military recovered explosives and other weapons after a gun battle with forces of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pantukan, Compostela Valley Monday night.
After a gun battle with the NPA Front Committee Two, the 71st Infantry Battalion recovered two improvised explosive devices, an improvised hand grenade, a fragmentation hand grenade, two triggering devices, a three-meter long electrical wire, spent shells of M-14 bullets, a magazine and folded M-14 rifle.
The military believes this group is behind the recent extortion activities in Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan towns in Compostela Valley, where small-scale miners and other mining companies are based.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/22/14/look-weapons-recovered-npa-comval
2 soldiers killed in Maguindanao hospital attack
From the Philippine Star (Oct 23): 2 soldiers killed in Maguindanao hospital attack
Two soldiers were killed by four unidentified gunmen inside a hospital in Maguindanao province on Wednesday night.
The two soldiers, who were members of the Philippine Army's 45th Infantry Battalion residents of Cordillera region, were stationed at the emergency room of the Maguindanao Provincial Hospital when they were fired upon by the four gunmen at around 8:30 p.m.
A military official said the armed men managed to sneak into the hospital when a patient was brought to the facility.
After shooting the two government troops, the suspects took the soldiers' M16 and M14 assault rifles and fled toward the direction of Datu Hoffer town in Ampatuan.
Authorities said that the four men could be members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), who previously attacked the hospital in Shariff Aguak town.
Maguindanao Governor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu has ordered the local police to beef up security at the Integrated Provincial Health Office to thwart similar attacks by the group.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/10/23/1383513/2-soldiers-killed-maguindanao-hospital-attack
Two soldiers were killed by four unidentified gunmen inside a hospital in Maguindanao province on Wednesday night.
The two soldiers, who were members of the Philippine Army's 45th Infantry Battalion residents of Cordillera region, were stationed at the emergency room of the Maguindanao Provincial Hospital when they were fired upon by the four gunmen at around 8:30 p.m.
A military official said the armed men managed to sneak into the hospital when a patient was brought to the facility.
After shooting the two government troops, the suspects took the soldiers' M16 and M14 assault rifles and fled toward the direction of Datu Hoffer town in Ampatuan.
Authorities said that the four men could be members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), who previously attacked the hospital in Shariff Aguak town.
Maguindanao Governor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu has ordered the local police to beef up security at the Integrated Provincial Health Office to thwart similar attacks by the group.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/10/23/1383513/2-soldiers-killed-maguindanao-hospital-attack
China installs buoys in Pacific Ocean, according to a report
From the Manila Standard Today (Oct 22): China installs buoys in Pacific Ocean, according to a report
China has installed 17 sets of submerged buoys in "key marine areas" of the western Pacific ocean, state media said, a move that could exacerbate territorial tensions in the region.
The mission carried out by the Chinese research vessel Kexue "marks the first time that China has put an array of submerged buoys on such a big scale", the official Xinhua news agency reported late Tuesday.
"The buoys will provide important scientific statistics about ocean circulation and climate," Hu Dunxin, a scholar at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told Xinhua.
The vessel is expected to return to the region next month "to conduct a deep sea environment project", the report added.
Beijing has regularly clashed with its neighbours in the East and South China Seas over issues of territorial sovereignty, and is increasing its naval reach into the Pacific as it expands its blue-water fleet, while the US has declared a foreign policy "pivot" towards Asia.
China claims the South China Sea almost in its entirety, and its increasingly assertive stance has heightened tensions with the Philippines and Vietnam, two of the other claimants.
This spring, a wave of deadly anti-Chinese riots took place in Vietnam after China deployed the giant Haiyang Shiyou 981 oil rig into waters claimed by Hanoi.
Two weeks ago Beijing announced the completion of a runway for military aircraft on Woody Island, part of the Paracel chain that is also claimed by Vietnam.
Vital shipping routes run through the waters of the South China Sea and they are believed to sit atop vast oil and gas deposits.
Relations between Beijing and Tokyo have plunged over their competing claims to a chain of Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands, where vessels and aircraft from both countries regularly patrol.
Experts say that China is acting to assert its legal claim and practical hold over contested territory, creating so-called "incidents of sovereignty" whatever the short-term political and diplomatic costs.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/10/22/china-installs-buoys-in-pacific-ocean-according-to-a-report/
China has installed 17 sets of submerged buoys in "key marine areas" of the western Pacific ocean, state media said, a move that could exacerbate territorial tensions in the region.
The mission carried out by the Chinese research vessel Kexue "marks the first time that China has put an array of submerged buoys on such a big scale", the official Xinhua news agency reported late Tuesday.
"The buoys will provide important scientific statistics about ocean circulation and climate," Hu Dunxin, a scholar at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told Xinhua.
The vessel is expected to return to the region next month "to conduct a deep sea environment project", the report added.
Beijing has regularly clashed with its neighbours in the East and South China Seas over issues of territorial sovereignty, and is increasing its naval reach into the Pacific as it expands its blue-water fleet, while the US has declared a foreign policy "pivot" towards Asia.
China claims the South China Sea almost in its entirety, and its increasingly assertive stance has heightened tensions with the Philippines and Vietnam, two of the other claimants.
This spring, a wave of deadly anti-Chinese riots took place in Vietnam after China deployed the giant Haiyang Shiyou 981 oil rig into waters claimed by Hanoi.
Two weeks ago Beijing announced the completion of a runway for military aircraft on Woody Island, part of the Paracel chain that is also claimed by Vietnam.
Vital shipping routes run through the waters of the South China Sea and they are believed to sit atop vast oil and gas deposits.
Relations between Beijing and Tokyo have plunged over their competing claims to a chain of Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands, where vessels and aircraft from both countries regularly patrol.
Experts say that China is acting to assert its legal claim and practical hold over contested territory, creating so-called "incidents of sovereignty" whatever the short-term political and diplomatic costs.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/10/22/china-installs-buoys-in-pacific-ocean-according-to-a-report/
Agusan residents join rally vs rebels
From the Manila Standard Today (Oct 23): Agusan residents join rally vs rebels
Some 500 residents of Veruela town held a rally to denounce atrocities sown by suspected New People’s Army rebels.
The demonstration on Sunday was attended by former NPA rebels, peasants, religious leaders, teachers, students, tribal leaders and businessmen.
In a statement forwarded and e-mailed to this writer, Army 4th Infantry Division spokesman Major Christian Uy said “Ka Frits”, a former Political Instructor of Guerilla Front 3 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in Veruela and Sta Josefa towns, all of Agusan del Sur province and in Monkayo, Compostela Valley admitted having been wrong all along in going underground to overthrow the government.
“I was deceived by the CPP-NPA-NDF members. I was used by the NPAs to organize the masses to whom I also deceived to fight the Government, forgive me,” he said in a public confession.
Uy claimed another former NPA Commander “Ka Ariel”, who formerly led a Platoon Guerilla Unit of Guerilla Front 3 warned the peace rally participants that those who wanted to join the NPA will just waste time.
“I call on my former comrades who still act as puppets of corrupt NPA commanders to surrender because the real democracy has long been existing in the mainstream society,” he was quoted as saying.
But in a statement from the NPA Guerilla Front 3 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee said the two former comrades were themselves misguided.
“They were brainwashed by another liar, the AFP, who are not really serving the true interests and welfare of the Filipino people but their boss corrupt politicians and government who are only enriching themselves, leaving many Filipinos living in the quagmire of poverty suffering social and legal injustices from the government they are supposed to be protected,” the group said.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/10/23/agusan-residents-join-rally-vs-rebels/
Some 500 residents of Veruela town held a rally to denounce atrocities sown by suspected New People’s Army rebels.
The demonstration on Sunday was attended by former NPA rebels, peasants, religious leaders, teachers, students, tribal leaders and businessmen.
In a statement forwarded and e-mailed to this writer, Army 4th Infantry Division spokesman Major Christian Uy said “Ka Frits”, a former Political Instructor of Guerilla Front 3 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in Veruela and Sta Josefa towns, all of Agusan del Sur province and in Monkayo, Compostela Valley admitted having been wrong all along in going underground to overthrow the government.
“I was deceived by the CPP-NPA-NDF members. I was used by the NPAs to organize the masses to whom I also deceived to fight the Government, forgive me,” he said in a public confession.
Uy claimed another former NPA Commander “Ka Ariel”, who formerly led a Platoon Guerilla Unit of Guerilla Front 3 warned the peace rally participants that those who wanted to join the NPA will just waste time.
“I call on my former comrades who still act as puppets of corrupt NPA commanders to surrender because the real democracy has long been existing in the mainstream society,” he was quoted as saying.
But in a statement from the NPA Guerilla Front 3 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee said the two former comrades were themselves misguided.
“They were brainwashed by another liar, the AFP, who are not really serving the true interests and welfare of the Filipino people but their boss corrupt politicians and government who are only enriching themselves, leaving many Filipinos living in the quagmire of poverty suffering social and legal injustices from the government they are supposed to be protected,” the group said.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/10/23/agusan-residents-join-rally-vs-rebels/
Local jihadist bomber arrested
From the Manila Times (Oct 23): Local jihadist bomber arrested
Combined security forces in Maguindanao arrested on Tuesday a suspected bomber belonging to jihadist Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM) with a P1.3 million bounty on his head.
Supt. Noel Delos Reyes, police chief in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), identified the suspect as Abi Salman alias Sauman Usman and Nanam.
Delos Reyes said the suspect is believed to be a nephew of most wanted Abdul Basit Usman, who has ties with Southeast Asian terror organization Jema’ah Islamiyah (JI), citing intelligence reports.
Salman sustained a wound in the right thigh when he resisted and tried to grab the M-16 rifle of one of the arresting operatives. He was brought to a hospital and was expected to be transferred to Manila on Wednesday.
The suspect was arrested based on a warrant issued by Judge Rogelio R. Narisma of Regional Trial Court Branch 23 in Kidapawan City on February 9, 2009 for multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder and attempted murder.
Operatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Intelligence Group, PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group, Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion and Maguindanao Police Provincial Office took part in the operation.
According to intelligence community, the suspect is a member of KIM and JI. He also joined the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF).
KIM also known as Khilafah Islamiyah Mindanao-Black Flag Movement (KIM-BFM) is striving for an establishment of an Islamic caliphate in the country and is linked to bombings in North and Central Mindanao.
The KIM and BIFF along with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and Basit Usman’s group have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) that had established an Islamic caliphate or Khilafah Islamiyah in Iraq and Syria.
Three months ago, the same lead group who arrested Salman, also successfully seized suspected KIM member Saad Giad, who is connected with Al-Khobar Group and wanted for string of kidnapping cases in Central Mindanao.
http://www.manilatimes.net/local-jihadist-bomber-arrested/136325/
Combined security forces in Maguindanao arrested on Tuesday a suspected bomber belonging to jihadist Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM) with a P1.3 million bounty on his head.
Supt. Noel Delos Reyes, police chief in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), identified the suspect as Abi Salman alias Sauman Usman and Nanam.
Delos Reyes said the suspect is believed to be a nephew of most wanted Abdul Basit Usman, who has ties with Southeast Asian terror organization Jema’ah Islamiyah (JI), citing intelligence reports.
Salman sustained a wound in the right thigh when he resisted and tried to grab the M-16 rifle of one of the arresting operatives. He was brought to a hospital and was expected to be transferred to Manila on Wednesday.
The suspect was arrested based on a warrant issued by Judge Rogelio R. Narisma of Regional Trial Court Branch 23 in Kidapawan City on February 9, 2009 for multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder and attempted murder.
Operatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Intelligence Group, PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group, Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion and Maguindanao Police Provincial Office took part in the operation.
According to intelligence community, the suspect is a member of KIM and JI. He also joined the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF).
KIM also known as Khilafah Islamiyah Mindanao-Black Flag Movement (KIM-BFM) is striving for an establishment of an Islamic caliphate in the country and is linked to bombings in North and Central Mindanao.
The KIM and BIFF along with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and Basit Usman’s group have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) that had established an Islamic caliphate or Khilafah Islamiyah in Iraq and Syria.
Three months ago, the same lead group who arrested Salman, also successfully seized suspected KIM member Saad Giad, who is connected with Al-Khobar Group and wanted for string of kidnapping cases in Central Mindanao.
http://www.manilatimes.net/local-jihadist-bomber-arrested/136325/
Army seizes NPA camp
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 22): Army seizes NPA camp
The Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade has ordered the deployment of more troops following the capture of an alleged camp of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon province Tuesday.
Maj. Christian C. Uy, regional Army spokesman of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) said the 90-minute fierce gunbattle at the Kalampigan area in Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon resulted in the capture of the alleged camp of SECOM 89 of the NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
At the Malitbog-Impasug-ong boundary, one soldier was killed and two militiamen were injured when a fierce gunbattle took place between pursuing combat troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion (8th IB) and NPA rebels.
Col. Jesse Alvarez, commanding officer of the 403rd Brigade deployed more troops to beef up the pursuing 8th IB troopers in the area.
“Our combat maneuvering troops in the region, particularly in Bukidnon are determined to pursue peace and development,” Maj. Uy told Manila Bulletin. He also said field troops are also following the hot trail of the abductors of the two soldiers who were snatched by NPA’s on August 22, this year.
The gunbattle at Sitio Cadapa, Barangay Tibagon, Pantukan, Compostela Valley (ComVal) province, led to the capture of M14 rifle, 7.62mm rifle, three IEDs, homemade grenades, 300 meters wire, blasting caps, trigger devices and personal belongings, 71st IB Platoon leader 1Lt. Ari Ben T. Hernaez said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/army-seizes-npa-camp/
The Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade has ordered the deployment of more troops following the capture of an alleged camp of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon province Tuesday.
Maj. Christian C. Uy, regional Army spokesman of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) said the 90-minute fierce gunbattle at the Kalampigan area in Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon resulted in the capture of the alleged camp of SECOM 89 of the NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
At the Malitbog-Impasug-ong boundary, one soldier was killed and two militiamen were injured when a fierce gunbattle took place between pursuing combat troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion (8th IB) and NPA rebels.
Col. Jesse Alvarez, commanding officer of the 403rd Brigade deployed more troops to beef up the pursuing 8th IB troopers in the area.
“Our combat maneuvering troops in the region, particularly in Bukidnon are determined to pursue peace and development,” Maj. Uy told Manila Bulletin. He also said field troops are also following the hot trail of the abductors of the two soldiers who were snatched by NPA’s on August 22, this year.
The gunbattle at Sitio Cadapa, Barangay Tibagon, Pantukan, Compostela Valley (ComVal) province, led to the capture of M14 rifle, 7.62mm rifle, three IEDs, homemade grenades, 300 meters wire, blasting caps, trigger devices and personal belongings, 71st IB Platoon leader 1Lt. Ari Ben T. Hernaez said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/army-seizes-npa-camp/
Code of Conduct in West Philippine Sea, a major thrust in next ASEAN meeting: Aquino
From InterAksyon (Oct 22): Code of Conduct in West Philippine Sea, a major thrust in next ASEAN meeting: Aquino
President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday he will seek an update on discussions on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) when he attends the closing sessions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar next month.
"Number one is, we will ask for an update of precisely what has transpired after the agreement with regard to pushing for the Code of Conduct," the President said when asked about the issue during the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines in Marco Polo Ortigas.
He said he understands that there have been at least two preliminary discussions before the formal talks on the Code of Conduct.
Asked about the status of the relations between the Philippines and China, the Chief Executive said that it has not changed much since tensions escalated in the West Philippine Sea.
He, however, noted that when he visited China in 2011, his counterpart then, Hu Jintao, acknowledged that the tensions in the West Philippine Sea should not be the end-all and be-all of their relationship, which was described as multifaceted.
The President noted that trade between the two countries continues to grow and the number of tourists from both countries has increased despite China’s advisory against travel to the Philippines.
The promise of cultural assistance from China, such as the provision of Mandarin instructors, is happening, he said, citing information from the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce.
"Hopefully, we can really move on that Code of Conduct, with China as an active participant so that we can introduce a regime of stability based on rules that everybody acknowledges that we are bound by,” President Aquino said.
The ASEAN and China in 2002 agreed on the non-binding Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.
Aside from China and the Philippines, other claimants to the West Philippine Sea include Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97766/code-of-conduct-in-west-philippine-sea-a-major-thrust-in-next-asean-meeting-aquino
President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday he will seek an update on discussions on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) when he attends the closing sessions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar next month.
"Number one is, we will ask for an update of precisely what has transpired after the agreement with regard to pushing for the Code of Conduct," the President said when asked about the issue during the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines in Marco Polo Ortigas.
He said he understands that there have been at least two preliminary discussions before the formal talks on the Code of Conduct.
Asked about the status of the relations between the Philippines and China, the Chief Executive said that it has not changed much since tensions escalated in the West Philippine Sea.
He, however, noted that when he visited China in 2011, his counterpart then, Hu Jintao, acknowledged that the tensions in the West Philippine Sea should not be the end-all and be-all of their relationship, which was described as multifaceted.
The President noted that trade between the two countries continues to grow and the number of tourists from both countries has increased despite China’s advisory against travel to the Philippines.
The promise of cultural assistance from China, such as the provision of Mandarin instructors, is happening, he said, citing information from the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce.
"Hopefully, we can really move on that Code of Conduct, with China as an active participant so that we can introduce a regime of stability based on rules that everybody acknowledges that we are bound by,” President Aquino said.
The ASEAN and China in 2002 agreed on the non-binding Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.
Aside from China and the Philippines, other claimants to the West Philippine Sea include Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97766/code-of-conduct-in-west-philippine-sea-a-major-thrust-in-next-asean-meeting-aquino
CA approves promotion of 89 military officers
From InterAksyon (Oct 22): CA approves promotion of 89 military officers
The Commission on Appointments (CA) chaired by Senate President Franklin Drilon on Wednesday confirmed the nomination to higher rank of 89 officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
At its plenary session, CA approved the confirmation of the following officers:
For Major General
1. Salvador Melchor B. Mison Jr.
2. Glorioso V. Miranda
3. Donato B. San Juan II
4. Mayoralgo M. Dela Cruz
For Brigadier General
5. Arthur P. Ang
6. Medardo P. Geslani
7. Manolito P. Orense
8. Enrique C. Reyes
9. Johnny L. Macanas
10. John Oliviamor R. Estabillo
11. Armando V. Banez
12. Vicente M. Yordan
13. Edgar F. Gonzales
14. Job S. Yucoco
15. Adrien R. Quidlat
For Lieutenant General
16. Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad Jr.
For Rear Admiral
17. Antonio A. Habulan Jr.
For Commodore
18. Allan B. Rosal
For Colonel
19. Bernie S. Langub
20. Dennis Godfrey F. Gammad
21. Marceliano V. Teofilo
22. Rolando E. Nerona
23. Roy M. Galido
24. Jose B. Gongona Jr.
25. Radito P. Sese
26. Laurence E. Mina
27. Adolfo B. Albalate
28. Adonis P. Palma
29. Hernanine S. Songanno
30. Ferdinand O. Panganiban
31. Enrico O. Andrada, Jr.
32. Jane Coralde
33. Nilda L. Nesperos
34. Marilyn T. Patrimonio
35. Ma. Victoria M. Girao
36. Rommel K. Tello
37. Jose Augusto V. Villareal
38. Benjamin L. Hao
39. Luis Rex D. Bergante
40. William L. Ilagan
41. Steve D. Crespillo
42. Rosalito . Martires
43. Rodrigo M. Macaraeg
44. Samson L. Perez
45. Ser-Me L. Ayuyao
46. Burt J. Pades
47. Jose A. Benavidez
48. Abundio C. Caracas
49. Jose Randolf M. Sinocruz
50. Gabriel C. Viray III
51. Leodevic B. Guinid
52. Antonio GG. Nagarrete
53. Audrey L. Pasia
54. Nestor I. Abando
55. Roberto S. Capulong
56. Rynell R. More
57. Jaime A. Abaag Jr.
58. Armando Russel B. Bulatao
59. Lyndon D. Paniza
60. Antonio G. Mangoroban Jr.
61. Rodyer B. Dela Pena
62. Cristobal G. Cosape
63. Roehl V. Belleza
64. Joanne B. Turingan
65. Erwin Victoriano A. Machica III
66. Roque Kim B. Pedroza
67. Edwin R. Respicio
68. Nestor E. Narag
69. Cornelio C. Orteza Jr.
70. Roberto I. Velasco
71. Luis Ramo VL. De Leon
72. Frederick R. Palad
73. Joseph L. Nabutel
74. Benjamin G. Batara
75. William M. Tagimacruz
76. Joselito R. Tocaldo
77. Alfredo B. Sanchez
78. Gerardo P. Catindoy
79. Romulo D. Quemado II
80. Antonio V. Rosario Jr.
81. Ernesto A. Cruz
82. Rommel R. Hinlo
83. Vincent B. Incognito
84. Wilfredo M. Villahermosa
For Captain
85. Nicolas S. Tison
86. Harry Jan R. Delgado
87. Salvador G. Lavapie Jr.
88. Allan M. Javier
89. Joe Anthony C . Orbe
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97740/ca-approves-promotion-of-89-military-officers
The Commission on Appointments (CA) chaired by Senate President Franklin Drilon on Wednesday confirmed the nomination to higher rank of 89 officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
At its plenary session, CA approved the confirmation of the following officers:
For Major General
1. Salvador Melchor B. Mison Jr.
2. Glorioso V. Miranda
3. Donato B. San Juan II
4. Mayoralgo M. Dela Cruz
For Brigadier General
5. Arthur P. Ang
6. Medardo P. Geslani
7. Manolito P. Orense
8. Enrique C. Reyes
9. Johnny L. Macanas
10. John Oliviamor R. Estabillo
11. Armando V. Banez
12. Vicente M. Yordan
13. Edgar F. Gonzales
14. Job S. Yucoco
15. Adrien R. Quidlat
For Lieutenant General
16. Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad Jr.
For Rear Admiral
17. Antonio A. Habulan Jr.
For Commodore
18. Allan B. Rosal
For Colonel
19. Bernie S. Langub
20. Dennis Godfrey F. Gammad
21. Marceliano V. Teofilo
22. Rolando E. Nerona
23. Roy M. Galido
24. Jose B. Gongona Jr.
25. Radito P. Sese
26. Laurence E. Mina
27. Adolfo B. Albalate
28. Adonis P. Palma
29. Hernanine S. Songanno
30. Ferdinand O. Panganiban
31. Enrico O. Andrada, Jr.
32. Jane Coralde
33. Nilda L. Nesperos
34. Marilyn T. Patrimonio
35. Ma. Victoria M. Girao
36. Rommel K. Tello
37. Jose Augusto V. Villareal
38. Benjamin L. Hao
39. Luis Rex D. Bergante
40. William L. Ilagan
41. Steve D. Crespillo
42. Rosalito . Martires
43. Rodrigo M. Macaraeg
44. Samson L. Perez
45. Ser-Me L. Ayuyao
46. Burt J. Pades
47. Jose A. Benavidez
48. Abundio C. Caracas
49. Jose Randolf M. Sinocruz
50. Gabriel C. Viray III
51. Leodevic B. Guinid
52. Antonio GG. Nagarrete
53. Audrey L. Pasia
54. Nestor I. Abando
55. Roberto S. Capulong
56. Rynell R. More
57. Jaime A. Abaag Jr.
58. Armando Russel B. Bulatao
59. Lyndon D. Paniza
60. Antonio G. Mangoroban Jr.
61. Rodyer B. Dela Pena
62. Cristobal G. Cosape
63. Roehl V. Belleza
64. Joanne B. Turingan
65. Erwin Victoriano A. Machica III
66. Roque Kim B. Pedroza
67. Edwin R. Respicio
68. Nestor E. Narag
69. Cornelio C. Orteza Jr.
70. Roberto I. Velasco
71. Luis Ramo VL. De Leon
72. Frederick R. Palad
73. Joseph L. Nabutel
74. Benjamin G. Batara
75. William M. Tagimacruz
76. Joselito R. Tocaldo
77. Alfredo B. Sanchez
78. Gerardo P. Catindoy
79. Romulo D. Quemado II
80. Antonio V. Rosario Jr.
81. Ernesto A. Cruz
82. Rommel R. Hinlo
83. Vincent B. Incognito
84. Wilfredo M. Villahermosa
For Captain
85. Nicolas S. Tison
86. Harry Jan R. Delgado
87. Salvador G. Lavapie Jr.
88. Allan M. Javier
89. Joe Anthony C . Orbe
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97740/ca-approves-promotion-of-89-military-officers
2 soldiers killed in attack on Maguindanao Provincial Hospital
From InterAksyon (Oct 23): 2 soldiers killed in attack on Maguindanao Provincial Hospital
Two soldiers from the 45th Infantry Battalion were killed in an attack on Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Barangay Limpongo, Datu Hopper Ampatuan, a few meters from the Maguindanao provincial headquarters, around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The still unidentified perpetrators pretended to be relatives of a patient in the hospital, said 6th Infantry Division spokesman Army Col. Dickson Hermoso.
After gunning down the soldiers who were assigned at the hospital, the perpetrators took their service firearms of M16 and M14 rifles.
The four perpetrators immediately escaped on board two motorcycles.
Authorities are investigating if this incident is related to the recent killing of elements of the 6th ID.
Maguindanao Provincial Hosptial director Dr. Tahir Sulaik was saddened by the incident, shocked by the brazenness of the perpetrators.
Despite the incident, Dr. Sulaik said the hospital would continue to provide health services to the public.
He called on the armed perpetrators to respect the hospital as a zone of peace as it is the only hospital in the area, helping everyone including Moros.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97796/2-soldiers-killed-in-attack-on-maguindanao-provincial-hospital
Two soldiers from the 45th Infantry Battalion were killed in an attack on Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Barangay Limpongo, Datu Hopper Ampatuan, a few meters from the Maguindanao provincial headquarters, around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The still unidentified perpetrators pretended to be relatives of a patient in the hospital, said 6th Infantry Division spokesman Army Col. Dickson Hermoso.
After gunning down the soldiers who were assigned at the hospital, the perpetrators took their service firearms of M16 and M14 rifles.
The four perpetrators immediately escaped on board two motorcycles.
Authorities are investigating if this incident is related to the recent killing of elements of the 6th ID.
Maguindanao Provincial Hosptial director Dr. Tahir Sulaik was saddened by the incident, shocked by the brazenness of the perpetrators.
Despite the incident, Dr. Sulaik said the hospital would continue to provide health services to the public.
He called on the armed perpetrators to respect the hospital as a zone of peace as it is the only hospital in the area, helping everyone including Moros.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97796/2-soldiers-killed-in-attack-on-maguindanao-provincial-hospital
US carrier docks in Manila
From InterAksyon (Oct 23): US carrier docks in Manila
USS George Washington docked in Manila Bay, 24 October 2012. REUTERS FILE PHOTO
The USS George Washington on Thursday docked at the Manila harbor "for a routine port call", the United States embassy here said in statement.
"Recently, the BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PF 15) of the Philippine Navy joined the George Washington Carrier Strike Group off the coast of the Philippines from October 22-23 to conduct maneuvering, communications, and gunnery exercises to further enhance their ability to work together and demonstrate their commitment to the US-Philippines alliance," it said.
The warship was also reportedly involved recently in the battle against Islamic State wrecking havoc in large parts of Iraq and Syria.
The ship was also the first responder on a humanitarian mission sent by the US government to deliver hundreds of tons of assorted relief goods to victims of the super typhoon Yolanda in November last year in Eastern Visayas.
The warship, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier commissioned on 4 July 1992, is forward deployed to the 7th Fleet area of operations, operating from Yokosuka, Japan. It is commanded by Capt. Greg Fenton, with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, commanded by Capt. William Koyama, is crewed by approximately 5,500 sailors, of whom 320 are Filipino-American.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97803/us-carrier-docks-in-manila
USS George Washington docked in Manila Bay, 24 October 2012. REUTERS FILE PHOTO
The USS George Washington on Thursday docked at the Manila harbor "for a routine port call", the United States embassy here said in statement.
"Recently, the BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PF 15) of the Philippine Navy joined the George Washington Carrier Strike Group off the coast of the Philippines from October 22-23 to conduct maneuvering, communications, and gunnery exercises to further enhance their ability to work together and demonstrate their commitment to the US-Philippines alliance," it said.
The warship was also reportedly involved recently in the battle against Islamic State wrecking havoc in large parts of Iraq and Syria.
The ship was also the first responder on a humanitarian mission sent by the US government to deliver hundreds of tons of assorted relief goods to victims of the super typhoon Yolanda in November last year in Eastern Visayas.
The warship, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier commissioned on 4 July 1992, is forward deployed to the 7th Fleet area of operations, operating from Yokosuka, Japan. It is commanded by Capt. Greg Fenton, with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, commanded by Capt. William Koyama, is crewed by approximately 5,500 sailors, of whom 320 are Filipino-American.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97803/us-carrier-docks-in-manila
CPP/Ang Bayan: Pag-aarmas ng AFP sa mga Lumad kontra-Lumad, binatikos
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): Pag-aarmas ng AFP sa mga Lumad kontra-Lumad, binatikos (Arming AFP anti-Lumad Lumad, denounced)
Mariing binatikos ng Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (KAMP) ang pagbubuo ng mga grupong paramilitar sa mga Lumad at pag-aarmas ng AFP sa kanila laban sa kanilang mga kamag-anak at katribo.
Layunin ng AFP na wasakin ang pagkakaisa ng mga Lumad, gamitin silang tau-tauhan sa inilulunsad na gerang Oplan Bayanihan at sa gayo’y bigyang-daan ang pagpasok ng mga dayuhang kumpanyang may interes sa mga yamang mineral at iba pang likas na yaman sa mga lupaing ninuno ng mga Lumad.
Mayroon nang 13 grupong paramilitar na Lumad sa buong Mindanao na patuloy na naghahasik ng terorismo sa mga komunidad ng mga Lumad at magsasaka. Sa Bukidnon, kabilang dito ang San Fernando Matigsalug, Tribal Datus (Sanmatidra); Bungkatol Liberation Front (Bulif); at ang New Indigenous People’s Army for Reform (Nipar) sa ilalim ng 8th IB. Kabilang din dito ang Salakawan o Wild Dogs (na binuo ng 402nd Infantry Brigade), ang Alamara sa Northern Mindanao at ang Task Force Gantangan-Bagani Force sa rehiyong Caraga.
Ang mga grupong ito ang nasa likod ng hindi bababa sa 11 kaso ng pagpatay sa mga Lumad at kanilang mga tagapagtaguyod.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/pag-aarmas-ng-afp-sa-mga-lumad-kontra-lumad-binatikos
Mariing binatikos ng Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (KAMP) ang pagbubuo ng mga grupong paramilitar sa mga Lumad at pag-aarmas ng AFP sa kanila laban sa kanilang mga kamag-anak at katribo.
Layunin ng AFP na wasakin ang pagkakaisa ng mga Lumad, gamitin silang tau-tauhan sa inilulunsad na gerang Oplan Bayanihan at sa gayo’y bigyang-daan ang pagpasok ng mga dayuhang kumpanyang may interes sa mga yamang mineral at iba pang likas na yaman sa mga lupaing ninuno ng mga Lumad.
Mayroon nang 13 grupong paramilitar na Lumad sa buong Mindanao na patuloy na naghahasik ng terorismo sa mga komunidad ng mga Lumad at magsasaka. Sa Bukidnon, kabilang dito ang San Fernando Matigsalug, Tribal Datus (Sanmatidra); Bungkatol Liberation Front (Bulif); at ang New Indigenous People’s Army for Reform (Nipar) sa ilalim ng 8th IB. Kabilang din dito ang Salakawan o Wild Dogs (na binuo ng 402nd Infantry Brigade), ang Alamara sa Northern Mindanao at ang Task Force Gantangan-Bagani Force sa rehiyong Caraga.
Ang mga grupong ito ang nasa likod ng hindi bababa sa 11 kaso ng pagpatay sa mga Lumad at kanilang mga tagapagtaguyod.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/pag-aarmas-ng-afp-sa-mga-lumad-kontra-lumad-binatikos
CPP/NPA: Masaker sa Lacub, Abra, mariing kinundena ng PKP
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): Masaker sa Lacub, Abra, mariing kinundena ng PKP (Lacub massacre, Abra, strongly condemned by the CPP)
Mariing kinundena ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP) at ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Ilocos-Cordillera Region ang karumal-dumal na pagmasaker ng mga sundalo ng 41st IB sa pitong myembro ng BHB sa Lacub, Abra noong Setyembre 4. Ang mga biktima ay pawang mga hors de combat o wala nang kakayahang lumaban. Kinundena rin ng PKP ang ekstrahudisyal na pamamaslang ng militar sa dalawang sibilyan at iba pang paglabag sa karapatang-tao at mga internasyunal na makataong batas.
Sumaludo at iginawad ng PKP at BHB ang pinakamataas na parangal sa mga kadre ng Partido at mga Pulang mandirigmang sina Arnold “Ka Mando” Jaramillo, Recca Noelle “Ka Tet” Monte, Brandon “Ka Sly” Madranga, Robert “Ka Dawyan” Beyao, Ricardo “Ka Tubong” Reyes, Pedring “Ka Jess” Banggao at Robert “Ka Limbo” Perez.
Ayon sa panimulang imbestigasyon, napatunayang ang mga napatay na Pulang mandirigma ay nadakip nang sugatan matapos magapi ng nag-ooperasyong mga tropa ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Sa halip na gamutin at tratuhin bilang mga bihag-ng-digma alinsunod sa pandaigdigang batas ng digma, walang awa silang tinortyur at pinatay ng mga pasista. Pinapatunayan ito kahit ng mga report ng awtopsiya na isinagawa ng mga ahensya ng gubyerno. Ang bangkay ni Ka Mando, sa partikular, ay tadtad ng tama ng bala. Ang mga tama ay may malinaw na paso sa paligid ng pinasukan ng bala, na nagpapatunay na binaril siya nang malapitan.
Kinundena rin ng PKP ang pagpaslang kay Engr. Fidela Salvador, 50 anyos, isang upisyal ng Cordillera Response and Development Services na nagmomonitor sa implementasyon ng Philippine Tropical Cyclone Emergency Response Project sa lugar nang siya ay paslangin.
Tinortyur din at pinatay ng 41st IB si Noel Viste, residente ng Barangay Poblacion, Lacub, na kabilang sa 24 na sibilyan na ginawang giya at human shield ng 41st IB noong Setyembre 5. Karamihan sa mga sibilyan ay pinakawalan, maliban kina Viste at Nicasio Asbucan. Kinabukasan, natagpuang patay si Viste. Ayon kay Asbucan, inatasan siya ng mga sundalo na sabihing si Viste ay pinatay ng mga myembro ng BHB.
Mahigpit na sinusuportahan ng PKP ang malawakang panawagan ng mamamayan ng Abra sa agarang pagpapalayas sa mga tropa ng 41st IB. Nananawagan ang PKP sa mamamayan ng Abra at sa mamamayang Pilipino na palakasin ang kanilang protesta at paalingawngawin ang kanilang sigaw para sa agarang pagpapalayas sa mga kriminal na tropa ng AFP sa lugar.
Inatasan din ng PKP ang BHB sa Abra at sa buong Ilocos-Cordillera na parusahan ang mga salarin sa mga krimeng ito at sa matitinding abuso sa karapatang-tao at bigyan ng hustisya ang lahat ng mga biktima ng pasismo.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/masaker-sa-lacub-abra-mariing-kinundena-ng-pkp
Mariing kinundena ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP) at ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Ilocos-Cordillera Region ang karumal-dumal na pagmasaker ng mga sundalo ng 41st IB sa pitong myembro ng BHB sa Lacub, Abra noong Setyembre 4. Ang mga biktima ay pawang mga hors de combat o wala nang kakayahang lumaban. Kinundena rin ng PKP ang ekstrahudisyal na pamamaslang ng militar sa dalawang sibilyan at iba pang paglabag sa karapatang-tao at mga internasyunal na makataong batas.
Sumaludo at iginawad ng PKP at BHB ang pinakamataas na parangal sa mga kadre ng Partido at mga Pulang mandirigmang sina Arnold “Ka Mando” Jaramillo, Recca Noelle “Ka Tet” Monte, Brandon “Ka Sly” Madranga, Robert “Ka Dawyan” Beyao, Ricardo “Ka Tubong” Reyes, Pedring “Ka Jess” Banggao at Robert “Ka Limbo” Perez.
Ayon sa panimulang imbestigasyon, napatunayang ang mga napatay na Pulang mandirigma ay nadakip nang sugatan matapos magapi ng nag-ooperasyong mga tropa ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Sa halip na gamutin at tratuhin bilang mga bihag-ng-digma alinsunod sa pandaigdigang batas ng digma, walang awa silang tinortyur at pinatay ng mga pasista. Pinapatunayan ito kahit ng mga report ng awtopsiya na isinagawa ng mga ahensya ng gubyerno. Ang bangkay ni Ka Mando, sa partikular, ay tadtad ng tama ng bala. Ang mga tama ay may malinaw na paso sa paligid ng pinasukan ng bala, na nagpapatunay na binaril siya nang malapitan.
Kinundena rin ng PKP ang pagpaslang kay Engr. Fidela Salvador, 50 anyos, isang upisyal ng Cordillera Response and Development Services na nagmomonitor sa implementasyon ng Philippine Tropical Cyclone Emergency Response Project sa lugar nang siya ay paslangin.
Tinortyur din at pinatay ng 41st IB si Noel Viste, residente ng Barangay Poblacion, Lacub, na kabilang sa 24 na sibilyan na ginawang giya at human shield ng 41st IB noong Setyembre 5. Karamihan sa mga sibilyan ay pinakawalan, maliban kina Viste at Nicasio Asbucan. Kinabukasan, natagpuang patay si Viste. Ayon kay Asbucan, inatasan siya ng mga sundalo na sabihing si Viste ay pinatay ng mga myembro ng BHB.
Mahigpit na sinusuportahan ng PKP ang malawakang panawagan ng mamamayan ng Abra sa agarang pagpapalayas sa mga tropa ng 41st IB. Nananawagan ang PKP sa mamamayan ng Abra at sa mamamayang Pilipino na palakasin ang kanilang protesta at paalingawngawin ang kanilang sigaw para sa agarang pagpapalayas sa mga kriminal na tropa ng AFP sa lugar.
Inatasan din ng PKP ang BHB sa Abra at sa buong Ilocos-Cordillera na parusahan ang mga salarin sa mga krimeng ito at sa matitinding abuso sa karapatang-tao at bigyan ng hustisya ang lahat ng mga biktima ng pasismo.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/masaker-sa-lacub-abra-mariing-kinundena-ng-pkp
CPP/Ang Bayan: Operasyong harasment sa Bukidnon
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): Operasyong harasment sa Bukidnon (Harassment operations in Bukidnon)
Isang elemento ng Special CAFGU Active Auxiliary ang napatay nang paputukan ng isang tim ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) ang nag-ooperasyong mga sundalo at paramilitar sa Kagahuman, San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon noong Oktubre 9, bandang alas-12 ng tanghali.
Noon namang Oktubre 11, bandang alas-5:30 ng hapon, pinaputukan ng isa pang tim ng BHB ang mga tropa ng 8th IB sa Sityo Calampigan, Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon kung saan napatay ang isang sundalo at nasugatan ang dalawang elemento ng CAFGU.
Ang mga tropa ng AFP ay nagpipilit maglunsad ng mga operasyong militar para iligtas ang dalawang sundalong dinakip ng BHB sa Impasug-ong noong Agosto 22 na sina Pfc. Marnel Cinches at Pfc. Jerrel Yorong. Nagpwesto pa ng dalawang 105-mm howitzer ang 8th IB sa Barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong. Sa Palo, Hindangon, Gingoog City, patuloy din ang operasyong kombat ng 58th IB na nagpwesto rin ng dalawang howitzer sa lugar.
Mariing binatikos ng BHB ang nagpapatuloy na rescue operations. Sa halip, ang dapat ipatupad ng AFP ay Suspension of Offensive Military Operations o SOMO na siyang magbibigay-daan sa maayos at ligtas na pagpapalaya sa dalawang bihag.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/operasyong-harasment-sa-bukidnon
Isang elemento ng Special CAFGU Active Auxiliary ang napatay nang paputukan ng isang tim ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) ang nag-ooperasyong mga sundalo at paramilitar sa Kagahuman, San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon noong Oktubre 9, bandang alas-12 ng tanghali.
Noon namang Oktubre 11, bandang alas-5:30 ng hapon, pinaputukan ng isa pang tim ng BHB ang mga tropa ng 8th IB sa Sityo Calampigan, Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon kung saan napatay ang isang sundalo at nasugatan ang dalawang elemento ng CAFGU.
Ang mga tropa ng AFP ay nagpipilit maglunsad ng mga operasyong militar para iligtas ang dalawang sundalong dinakip ng BHB sa Impasug-ong noong Agosto 22 na sina Pfc. Marnel Cinches at Pfc. Jerrel Yorong. Nagpwesto pa ng dalawang 105-mm howitzer ang 8th IB sa Barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong. Sa Palo, Hindangon, Gingoog City, patuloy din ang operasyong kombat ng 58th IB na nagpwesto rin ng dalawang howitzer sa lugar.
Mariing binatikos ng BHB ang nagpapatuloy na rescue operations. Sa halip, ang dapat ipatupad ng AFP ay Suspension of Offensive Military Operations o SOMO na siyang magbibigay-daan sa maayos at ligtas na pagpapalaya sa dalawang bihag.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/operasyong-harasment-sa-bukidnon
CPP/Ang Bayan: Itochu-D0ole Corp., pinarusahan ng BHB sa South Cotabato
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): Itochu-Dole Corp., pinarusahan ng BHB sa South Cotabato (Dole Itochu Corp., punished by the NPA in South Cotabato)
Sinunog ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Far South Mindanao ang isang boom sprayer noong Oktubre 6 sa Sityo El Bantong, Barangay Rang-ay, Banga, South Cotabato upang di na ito magamit sa pamiminsala sa kapaligiran at kalusugan.
Ang naturang kagamitan ay pag-aari ng Itochu-Dole (dating Dole Philippines), isang kumpanyang Hapon na may malalawak na plantasyon sa Pilipinas, Australia, New Zealand at iba’t iba pang bansa sa Asia.
Isinagawa ng Julito Banda Front ng BHB ang hakbangin sa harap ng malawak at seryosong pinsalang idinudulot ng plantasyon. Mula nang itayo ang mga plantasyon sa Allah Valley mahigit sampung taon na ang nakararaan ay libu-libong magsasaka na ang naagawan ng lupa dahil sa agresibong pagpapalawak ng kanilang plantasyon ng pinya at saging.
Ang malawakang pagpapalit-gamit ng lupa mula palay tungong mga plantasyong isahang klaseng tanim ay nagdudulot ng malaking banta sa seguridad sa pagkain. Ang paggamit naman ng mga agrokemikal ay lumalason sa hangin, mga sistemang patubig at pinagkukunan ng pagkain na nagdudulot ng problemang pangkalusugan sa dumaraming mamamayan. Ang matitinding baha na laganap din ngayon sa Allah Valley ay bunga ng pagbabaw ng mga ilog dahil sa pagtatambak ng kumpanya ng kanilang basura rito.
Dahil sa lakas ng pagtutol ng masa, napilitan kamakailan ang kumpanya na itigil ang paggamit ng boom sprayer sa ere upang magbomba ng pestisidyo. Sa halip, inoopereyt na lamang ito sa lupa. Pero tuwing dumadaan ito, binabato ito ng mga residente para maipakita ang kanilang galit at pagtutol sa pagpapanatili ng plantasyon.
Para supilin ang paglaban ng mamamayan at kilusan ng mga manggagawang bukid laban sa kumpanya, ginagamit ng Itochu-Dole ang mga mersenaryong tropa ng 27th IB.
Samantala, sa Northern Samar, umabot sa 11 sundalo ang napatay sa dalawang magkahiwalay na operasyong harasment sa Barangay Gebonawan, Lope de Vega noong Setyembre 29 at 30.
Ang mga binirang kaaway ay kabilang sa mahigit 50 elemento ng 63rd IB na nag-operasyon sa lugar mula Setyembre 26 hanggang Oktubre 7.
Matapos ang harasment ay may nagreimpors pang mahigit 130 sundalong gumalugad sa anim na kilometrong radius pero wala silang nahagip na mga Pulang mandirigma.
Dahil sa galit ng kaaway, dalawang beses silang nag-aerial strafing sa mga komunidad ng Gebonawan at sa Barangay Paguite, pero wala ring naging kaswalti sa BHB maliban sa isang gerilyang bahagya lamang na nasugatan.
Agad na inireklamo ng mga upisyal ng Barangay Paguite sa lokal na gubyerno ang walang pakundangang aerial strafing ng AFP.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/itochu-dole-corp-pinarusahan-ng-bhb-sa-south-cotabato
Sinunog ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Far South Mindanao ang isang boom sprayer noong Oktubre 6 sa Sityo El Bantong, Barangay Rang-ay, Banga, South Cotabato upang di na ito magamit sa pamiminsala sa kapaligiran at kalusugan.
Ang naturang kagamitan ay pag-aari ng Itochu-Dole (dating Dole Philippines), isang kumpanyang Hapon na may malalawak na plantasyon sa Pilipinas, Australia, New Zealand at iba’t iba pang bansa sa Asia.
Isinagawa ng Julito Banda Front ng BHB ang hakbangin sa harap ng malawak at seryosong pinsalang idinudulot ng plantasyon. Mula nang itayo ang mga plantasyon sa Allah Valley mahigit sampung taon na ang nakararaan ay libu-libong magsasaka na ang naagawan ng lupa dahil sa agresibong pagpapalawak ng kanilang plantasyon ng pinya at saging.
Ang malawakang pagpapalit-gamit ng lupa mula palay tungong mga plantasyong isahang klaseng tanim ay nagdudulot ng malaking banta sa seguridad sa pagkain. Ang paggamit naman ng mga agrokemikal ay lumalason sa hangin, mga sistemang patubig at pinagkukunan ng pagkain na nagdudulot ng problemang pangkalusugan sa dumaraming mamamayan. Ang matitinding baha na laganap din ngayon sa Allah Valley ay bunga ng pagbabaw ng mga ilog dahil sa pagtatambak ng kumpanya ng kanilang basura rito.
Dahil sa lakas ng pagtutol ng masa, napilitan kamakailan ang kumpanya na itigil ang paggamit ng boom sprayer sa ere upang magbomba ng pestisidyo. Sa halip, inoopereyt na lamang ito sa lupa. Pero tuwing dumadaan ito, binabato ito ng mga residente para maipakita ang kanilang galit at pagtutol sa pagpapanatili ng plantasyon.
Para supilin ang paglaban ng mamamayan at kilusan ng mga manggagawang bukid laban sa kumpanya, ginagamit ng Itochu-Dole ang mga mersenaryong tropa ng 27th IB.
Samantala, sa Northern Samar, umabot sa 11 sundalo ang napatay sa dalawang magkahiwalay na operasyong harasment sa Barangay Gebonawan, Lope de Vega noong Setyembre 29 at 30.
Ang mga binirang kaaway ay kabilang sa mahigit 50 elemento ng 63rd IB na nag-operasyon sa lugar mula Setyembre 26 hanggang Oktubre 7.
Matapos ang harasment ay may nagreimpors pang mahigit 130 sundalong gumalugad sa anim na kilometrong radius pero wala silang nahagip na mga Pulang mandirigma.
Dahil sa galit ng kaaway, dalawang beses silang nag-aerial strafing sa mga komunidad ng Gebonawan at sa Barangay Paguite, pero wala ring naging kaswalti sa BHB maliban sa isang gerilyang bahagya lamang na nasugatan.
Agad na inireklamo ng mga upisyal ng Barangay Paguite sa lokal na gubyerno ang walang pakundangang aerial strafing ng AFP.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/itochu-dole-corp-pinarusahan-ng-bhb-sa-south-cotabato
CPP/Ang Bayan: 18 sundalo, napatay sa serye ng mga aksyong militar ng BHB
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): 18 sundalo, napatay sa serye ng mga aksyong militar ng BHB (18 soldiers killed in a series of NPA military actions)
Labing-walong sundalo ang napatay at dalawa ang nasugatan sa serye ng mga taktikal na opensiba at iba pang aksyong militar ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental at Agusan del Sur mula Setyembre 22 hanggang Oktubre 12. Dalawang M16 din ang nakumpiska sa mga labanang ito. Ang mga nasaklaw na lugar ay bahagi ng Comval-Davao Eastcoast Subregional Command ng BHB sa Southern Mindanao Region.
Pinasusubalian ng mga taktikal na opensibang ito ang ipinagmamayabang ng AFP na napuksa na raw ang BHB sa Davao Oriental at ilang bahagi ng Compostela Valley. Bagkus, nitong nakaraang mga buwan, ang 67th IB ang siyang nalagasan na ng katumbas ng dalawang platun (patay at sugatan) sa anim na taktikal na opensiba at sa mga operasyong isnayp at harasment ng BHB laban sa naturang batalyon. Sa desperasyon ng AFP Eastern Command, imbes na ipasa na sa pulisya ang mga lugar na “nalinisan” na raw ng mga Pulang mandirigma ay nagdagdag pa ito ng 100 sundalo mula sa 11th Coy ng 4th Scout Rangers Battalion.
Sa pinakahuling mga taktikal na opensiba, pinasabugan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang himpilan ng 66th IB sa New Bataan, Compostela Valley noong Oktubre 12, bandang alas-10:45 ng gabi at inambus ng isa pang yunit ng BHB ang mga nag-ooperasyong sundalo ng 67th IB sa Barangay Mahan-ub, Baganga, Davao Oriental. Limang sundalo ang napatay at dalawang M16 ang nasamsam sa dalawang taktikal na opensibang ito.
Bago ito, dalawa pang sundalo ang napatay nang harasin ng BHB ang patrol base ng 67th IB sa Salvacion, Trento, Agusan del Sur ganap na alas-10:35 ng gabi ng Oktubre 11.
Napapanahong parusa ang pagsalakay sa hedkwarters ng 66th IB dahil isinagawa ito iilang oras pa lamang ang nakakalipas mula nang brutal na paslangin ng mga sundalo ng naturang batalyon ang mag-amang Dagansan na nakasalubong lang nila sa daan sa Manurigao, New Bataan. (Tingnan ang kaugnay na artikulo) Parusa rin ito sa 66th IB sa pagsalbeyds nito sa aktibistang magsasakang si Gregorio Galacio sa kanyang bahay sa Kahayag, New Bataan noong Hulyo 19.
Apat na beses pang inatake ng BHB sa subrehiyon ang iba’t ibang yunit-militar sa saklaw nito noong huling bahagi ng Setyembre:
Noong Setyembre 27, bandang alas-2 ng hapon, sinunog ng BHB ang detatsment ng 67th IB sa Km. 28, Barangay Panansalan, sa bayan ng Compostela sa Compostela Valley.
Noong Setyembre 26, bandang alas-9 ng umaga, apat na pasistang tropa ang napatay at dalawa ang nasugatan nang maengkwentro ng BHB ang mga sundalo ng 67th IB sa Barangay Kampawan, Baganga.
Noong Setyembre 24, bandang alas-10 at alas-11 ng gabi, dalawang sundalo mula sa 72nd IB ang napatay sa dalawang magkahiwalay na operasyong isnayp sa mga detatsment ng kaaway sa Barangay Tapia, Monkayo, Compostela Valley at Barangay Marapat, Compostela.
At noong Setyembre 22, bandang alas-3 ng umaga, apat na sundalo ang napatay nang pasabugan ng BHB ang nagpapatrulyang platun ng 25th IB sa Upper Ambawan, Barangay Ngan, Compostela. Nawasak din ang sinasakyan nilang trak na KM 450. Sa hiwalay na operasyon, napatay ang isang sundalong gumugwardya sa Petroleum Mining Corp. nang isnaypin siya ng BHB sa Sityo Mambusao, Barangay Ngan.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/18-sundalo-napatay-sa-serye-ng-mga-aksyong-militar-ng-bhb
Labing-walong sundalo ang napatay at dalawa ang nasugatan sa serye ng mga taktikal na opensiba at iba pang aksyong militar ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental at Agusan del Sur mula Setyembre 22 hanggang Oktubre 12. Dalawang M16 din ang nakumpiska sa mga labanang ito. Ang mga nasaklaw na lugar ay bahagi ng Comval-Davao Eastcoast Subregional Command ng BHB sa Southern Mindanao Region.
Pinasusubalian ng mga taktikal na opensibang ito ang ipinagmamayabang ng AFP na napuksa na raw ang BHB sa Davao Oriental at ilang bahagi ng Compostela Valley. Bagkus, nitong nakaraang mga buwan, ang 67th IB ang siyang nalagasan na ng katumbas ng dalawang platun (patay at sugatan) sa anim na taktikal na opensiba at sa mga operasyong isnayp at harasment ng BHB laban sa naturang batalyon. Sa desperasyon ng AFP Eastern Command, imbes na ipasa na sa pulisya ang mga lugar na “nalinisan” na raw ng mga Pulang mandirigma ay nagdagdag pa ito ng 100 sundalo mula sa 11th Coy ng 4th Scout Rangers Battalion.
Sa pinakahuling mga taktikal na opensiba, pinasabugan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang himpilan ng 66th IB sa New Bataan, Compostela Valley noong Oktubre 12, bandang alas-10:45 ng gabi at inambus ng isa pang yunit ng BHB ang mga nag-ooperasyong sundalo ng 67th IB sa Barangay Mahan-ub, Baganga, Davao Oriental. Limang sundalo ang napatay at dalawang M16 ang nasamsam sa dalawang taktikal na opensibang ito.
Bago ito, dalawa pang sundalo ang napatay nang harasin ng BHB ang patrol base ng 67th IB sa Salvacion, Trento, Agusan del Sur ganap na alas-10:35 ng gabi ng Oktubre 11.
Napapanahong parusa ang pagsalakay sa hedkwarters ng 66th IB dahil isinagawa ito iilang oras pa lamang ang nakakalipas mula nang brutal na paslangin ng mga sundalo ng naturang batalyon ang mag-amang Dagansan na nakasalubong lang nila sa daan sa Manurigao, New Bataan. (Tingnan ang kaugnay na artikulo) Parusa rin ito sa 66th IB sa pagsalbeyds nito sa aktibistang magsasakang si Gregorio Galacio sa kanyang bahay sa Kahayag, New Bataan noong Hulyo 19.
Apat na beses pang inatake ng BHB sa subrehiyon ang iba’t ibang yunit-militar sa saklaw nito noong huling bahagi ng Setyembre:
Noong Setyembre 27, bandang alas-2 ng hapon, sinunog ng BHB ang detatsment ng 67th IB sa Km. 28, Barangay Panansalan, sa bayan ng Compostela sa Compostela Valley.
Noong Setyembre 26, bandang alas-9 ng umaga, apat na pasistang tropa ang napatay at dalawa ang nasugatan nang maengkwentro ng BHB ang mga sundalo ng 67th IB sa Barangay Kampawan, Baganga.
Noong Setyembre 24, bandang alas-10 at alas-11 ng gabi, dalawang sundalo mula sa 72nd IB ang napatay sa dalawang magkahiwalay na operasyong isnayp sa mga detatsment ng kaaway sa Barangay Tapia, Monkayo, Compostela Valley at Barangay Marapat, Compostela.
At noong Setyembre 22, bandang alas-3 ng umaga, apat na sundalo ang napatay nang pasabugan ng BHB ang nagpapatrulyang platun ng 25th IB sa Upper Ambawan, Barangay Ngan, Compostela. Nawasak din ang sinasakyan nilang trak na KM 450. Sa hiwalay na operasyon, napatay ang isang sundalong gumugwardya sa Petroleum Mining Corp. nang isnaypin siya ng BHB sa Sityo Mambusao, Barangay Ngan.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/18-sundalo-napatay-sa-serye-ng-mga-aksyong-militar-ng-bhb
CPP/Ang Bayan: Editorial -- Wakasan ang presensya at panghihimasok-militar ng US sa Pilipinas
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Oct 21): Editorial -- Wakasan ang presensya at panghihimasok-militar ng US sa Pilipinas (End the US military presence and intervention in the Philippines)
Kaisa ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas sa mamamayang Pilipino sa mariing pagtuligsa sa brutal na pagpatay ng isang sundalong Amerikano sa isang Pilipina sa Olongapo City noong Oktubre 12.
Sinusuportahan ng PKP at lahat ng rebolusyonaryong pwersa ang pamilya at mga kaibigan ng biktimang si Jennifer Laude sa kanilang mga hakbangin upang matamo ang katarungan. Puspusan ang hangarin ng sambayanang Pilipino na makamit ang hustisya para kay Jennifer, para sa lahat ng tulad niyang biktima ng krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at para sa buong bayan sa nagpapatuloy na paglapastangan sa kanyang kalayaan.
Sinusuportahan ng PKP ang kahilingan ng sambayanang Pilipino na isailalim sa kustodiya ng Pilipinas ang isinasakdal na sundalong Amerikano. Dapat nilang puspusang igiit ang pagbabasura sa Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). Ang VFA ay isang tagibang na kasunduan na nagsasaad na mananatili sa militar ng US ang kustodiya sa mga Amerikanong sundalong isinakdal sa mga kasong kriminal sa Pilipinas.
Inaalis ng VFA ang soberanong karapatan ng isang estado na ipailalim sa kapangyarihan nito ang sinumang dapat iharap sa paglilitis. Isang malaking insulto sa mamamayang Pilipino na ipagkait sa kanila ng gubyernong US ang kapangyarihang ito. Pwede man hingin ng gubyerno ng Pilipinas ang kustodiya, nasa kapasyahan pa rin ng gubyernong US kung ibibigay ito o hindi!
Si Jennifer ang pinakahuli lamang sa napakahaba nang listahan ng mga Pilipinong biktima ng iba’t ibang krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at militar ng US sa Pilipinas. Sa mahigit isandaang taon nang kolonisasyon, neokolonyal na paghahari at panghihimasok-militar ng US sa Pilipinas, patung-patong na ang mga kaso ng pagpatay, panggagahasa, pagmasaker, pagnanakaw at pandarambong.
Ang pagpatay kay Jennifer ay nagpapaalala sa sambayanang Pilipino kung papaano pinuksa ng imperyalismong US ang buhay ng 700,000 Pilipino sa gerang agresyon noong 1899-1902. Aabot pa sa 800,000 Pilipino ang pinatay ng mga sundalong Amerikano sa gera ng panunupil upang gapiin ang armadong rebolusyon para sa pambansang paglaya hanggang noong 1916. Walang kahit isang sundalo o upisyal ng US ang napanagot sa mga krimeng ito. Wala ring sundalo o upisyal ng US ang napanagot sa Subic rape case noong 2005 at iba’t ibang mga kaso ng pagpatay, paglapastangan, pamamaril, pambubugbog, pananakot at iba pa.
Asahan nang lalo pang darami ang mga krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano na katulad ng pagpatay kay Jennifer dahil sa pinirmahan ng rehimeng Aquino at gubyernong US na Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Sa ilalim ng EDCA, lalo pang darami ang mga sundalong Amerikano na papasok sa bansa at mag-iistasyon sa itatayo nilang mga base at pasilidad sa tinaguriang mga “Agreed Locations”—mga lugar sa saklaw ng mga base militar ng AFP.
Ang pagpirma ni Aquino sa EDCA ang pinakahuli lamang niyang akto ng pangangayupapa sa kapangyarihan ng militar ng US. Sa ilalim ng rehimeng Aquino, dumami taun-taon ang mga barko at eroplanong pandigma ng US na pinahintulutang pumasok, maglayag, dumaong at maglunsad ng iba’t ibang operasyon sa loob ng teritoryo ng Pilipinas sa ngalan ng “magkasanib na ehersisyong militar” o kaya’y “rest and recreation” at “pagkuha ng suplay” ng mga pwersang Amerikano. Libu-libong tropang Amerikano ang taun-tao’y pumapasok sa bansa.
Kung tutuusin, ang papet na rehimeng Aquino ang lumikha ng sitwasyong humantong sa krimen ng pagpatay kay Jennifer. Saan man naroroon ang mga sundalong Amerikano, laganap ang prostitusyon at dekadenteng pamumuhay.
Pinatay si Jennifer sa panahong ginugunita ang ika-70 taon ng panunumbalik ng militar ng imperyalismong US upang muling saklutin ang Pilipinas. Sa tinaguriang Leyte Landing, sinalakay ng US ang Pilipinas upang muli itong sakupin, matapos lumisan ang mga pwersa nitong ginapi noong 1942 ng sumalakay na pwersang militar ng imperyalismong Japan. Ang Leyte Landing (o ang tinaguriang pagbabalik ni Gen. Douglas MacArthur) ang ikalawang pagkakataon na inagaw ng US ang kalayaan ng Pilipinas mula sa mga Pilipino.
Sa tuwing pumapasok ito sa teritoryo ng Pilipinas, inaangkin ng militar ng US ang pribilehiyo ng pinakamakapangyarihang armadong pwersa sa buong mundo. Ang militar ng US ang nagtatakda kung kailan at saan sila papasok, saan at hanggang kailan sila dadaong, kung ano ang mga sandata na kanilang dadalhin, kung ilang sundalo ang kanilang ipapakat at kung anong mga operasyon ang kanilang ilulunsad.
Dala ng bawat sundalong Amerikano ang imperyalistang kahambugan ng kanilang hepeng si Barack Obama na nagdeklara kamakailan na “we are the indispensable nation.” (Tayo ang bansang lubos na kinakailangan) Saan man sila mapadpad, nag-aasal-amo ang mga armadong tropang Amerikano na dapat silang pagsilbihan ng kanilang mga “kaibigan.” Sa Afghanistan man o sa Iraq, sa Pakistan o Pilipinas, kaliwa’t kanan ang mga krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at pagyurak sa soberanya at integridad ng mga bansang kanilang pinapasok.
Tiyak na mas marami pang Jennifer ang magiging biktima ng iba’t ibang krimen at pandarahas ng mga sundalong Amerikano sa bansa. Dapat puspusang kumilos ang mamamayang Pilipino upang ipaglaban ang katarungan para kay Jennifer, igiit ang pagwakas sa presensya at panghihimasok-militar ng US at patalsikin ang sunud-sunurang gubyerno ni Aquino.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/wakasan-ang-presensya-at-panghihimasok-militar-ng-us-sa-pilipinas
Kaisa ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas sa mamamayang Pilipino sa mariing pagtuligsa sa brutal na pagpatay ng isang sundalong Amerikano sa isang Pilipina sa Olongapo City noong Oktubre 12.
Sinusuportahan ng PKP at lahat ng rebolusyonaryong pwersa ang pamilya at mga kaibigan ng biktimang si Jennifer Laude sa kanilang mga hakbangin upang matamo ang katarungan. Puspusan ang hangarin ng sambayanang Pilipino na makamit ang hustisya para kay Jennifer, para sa lahat ng tulad niyang biktima ng krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at para sa buong bayan sa nagpapatuloy na paglapastangan sa kanyang kalayaan.
Sinusuportahan ng PKP ang kahilingan ng sambayanang Pilipino na isailalim sa kustodiya ng Pilipinas ang isinasakdal na sundalong Amerikano. Dapat nilang puspusang igiit ang pagbabasura sa Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). Ang VFA ay isang tagibang na kasunduan na nagsasaad na mananatili sa militar ng US ang kustodiya sa mga Amerikanong sundalong isinakdal sa mga kasong kriminal sa Pilipinas.
Inaalis ng VFA ang soberanong karapatan ng isang estado na ipailalim sa kapangyarihan nito ang sinumang dapat iharap sa paglilitis. Isang malaking insulto sa mamamayang Pilipino na ipagkait sa kanila ng gubyernong US ang kapangyarihang ito. Pwede man hingin ng gubyerno ng Pilipinas ang kustodiya, nasa kapasyahan pa rin ng gubyernong US kung ibibigay ito o hindi!
Si Jennifer ang pinakahuli lamang sa napakahaba nang listahan ng mga Pilipinong biktima ng iba’t ibang krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at militar ng US sa Pilipinas. Sa mahigit isandaang taon nang kolonisasyon, neokolonyal na paghahari at panghihimasok-militar ng US sa Pilipinas, patung-patong na ang mga kaso ng pagpatay, panggagahasa, pagmasaker, pagnanakaw at pandarambong.
Ang pagpatay kay Jennifer ay nagpapaalala sa sambayanang Pilipino kung papaano pinuksa ng imperyalismong US ang buhay ng 700,000 Pilipino sa gerang agresyon noong 1899-1902. Aabot pa sa 800,000 Pilipino ang pinatay ng mga sundalong Amerikano sa gera ng panunupil upang gapiin ang armadong rebolusyon para sa pambansang paglaya hanggang noong 1916. Walang kahit isang sundalo o upisyal ng US ang napanagot sa mga krimeng ito. Wala ring sundalo o upisyal ng US ang napanagot sa Subic rape case noong 2005 at iba’t ibang mga kaso ng pagpatay, paglapastangan, pamamaril, pambubugbog, pananakot at iba pa.
Asahan nang lalo pang darami ang mga krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano na katulad ng pagpatay kay Jennifer dahil sa pinirmahan ng rehimeng Aquino at gubyernong US na Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Sa ilalim ng EDCA, lalo pang darami ang mga sundalong Amerikano na papasok sa bansa at mag-iistasyon sa itatayo nilang mga base at pasilidad sa tinaguriang mga “Agreed Locations”—mga lugar sa saklaw ng mga base militar ng AFP.
Ang pagpirma ni Aquino sa EDCA ang pinakahuli lamang niyang akto ng pangangayupapa sa kapangyarihan ng militar ng US. Sa ilalim ng rehimeng Aquino, dumami taun-taon ang mga barko at eroplanong pandigma ng US na pinahintulutang pumasok, maglayag, dumaong at maglunsad ng iba’t ibang operasyon sa loob ng teritoryo ng Pilipinas sa ngalan ng “magkasanib na ehersisyong militar” o kaya’y “rest and recreation” at “pagkuha ng suplay” ng mga pwersang Amerikano. Libu-libong tropang Amerikano ang taun-tao’y pumapasok sa bansa.
Kung tutuusin, ang papet na rehimeng Aquino ang lumikha ng sitwasyong humantong sa krimen ng pagpatay kay Jennifer. Saan man naroroon ang mga sundalong Amerikano, laganap ang prostitusyon at dekadenteng pamumuhay.
Pinatay si Jennifer sa panahong ginugunita ang ika-70 taon ng panunumbalik ng militar ng imperyalismong US upang muling saklutin ang Pilipinas. Sa tinaguriang Leyte Landing, sinalakay ng US ang Pilipinas upang muli itong sakupin, matapos lumisan ang mga pwersa nitong ginapi noong 1942 ng sumalakay na pwersang militar ng imperyalismong Japan. Ang Leyte Landing (o ang tinaguriang pagbabalik ni Gen. Douglas MacArthur) ang ikalawang pagkakataon na inagaw ng US ang kalayaan ng Pilipinas mula sa mga Pilipino.
Sa tuwing pumapasok ito sa teritoryo ng Pilipinas, inaangkin ng militar ng US ang pribilehiyo ng pinakamakapangyarihang armadong pwersa sa buong mundo. Ang militar ng US ang nagtatakda kung kailan at saan sila papasok, saan at hanggang kailan sila dadaong, kung ano ang mga sandata na kanilang dadalhin, kung ilang sundalo ang kanilang ipapakat at kung anong mga operasyon ang kanilang ilulunsad.
Dala ng bawat sundalong Amerikano ang imperyalistang kahambugan ng kanilang hepeng si Barack Obama na nagdeklara kamakailan na “we are the indispensable nation.” (Tayo ang bansang lubos na kinakailangan) Saan man sila mapadpad, nag-aasal-amo ang mga armadong tropang Amerikano na dapat silang pagsilbihan ng kanilang mga “kaibigan.” Sa Afghanistan man o sa Iraq, sa Pakistan o Pilipinas, kaliwa’t kanan ang mga krimen ng mga sundalong Amerikano at pagyurak sa soberanya at integridad ng mga bansang kanilang pinapasok.
Tiyak na mas marami pang Jennifer ang magiging biktima ng iba’t ibang krimen at pandarahas ng mga sundalong Amerikano sa bansa. Dapat puspusang kumilos ang mamamayang Pilipino upang ipaglaban ang katarungan para kay Jennifer, igiit ang pagwakas sa presensya at panghihimasok-militar ng US at patalsikin ang sunud-sunurang gubyerno ni Aquino.
[Ang Bayan is the official
news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141021/wakasan-ang-presensya-at-panghihimasok-militar-ng-us-sa-pilipinas
Kin of slain transgendered Filipino breach security to confront suspect
From the Business World (Oct 22): Kin of slain transgendered Filipino breach security to confront suspect
RELATIVES of a slain transgendered Filipino woman climbed the eight-feet high steel fence surrounding a facility in Camp Aguinaldo where the accused killer, a United States serviceman, is currently detained.
Marilou Laude and German national Marc Sueselbeck, the sister and German boyfriend of slain Jeffrey Laude, respectively, breached security to confront the accused, United States Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, authorities said.
However, they were later stopped by patrolling guards before they could get near the second steel fencing surrounding the detention facility.
The military was prompted to deploy more troops, particularly its Civil Disturbance Management Unit, in the surrounding area following the incident to increase security for the detained US Marine.
Mr. Pemberton was transferred to the Philippines’ military headquarters early Wednesday morning, after a huge public clamor for him to be moved off an American warship.
A US helicopter delivered Mr. Pemberton to Camp Aguinaldo where he will be jointly guarded by American and local troops, military chief Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. said.
The accused was detained in a 20-footer (28-cubic-meter) van that was installed inside the facility and will be sleeping in a military-type cot bed with an air-conditioning system
Mr. Catapang said the arrangement was mutually agreed by the two defense allies, whose military ties have been put under scrutiny by the murder.
“I think the US government is also sensitive to our feelings that this unfortunate incident happened, and they also want to show that they believe in our justice system,” Mr. Catapang said.
For her part, Justice Secretary Leila M. de Lima said Mr. Pemberton’s transfer is a clear sign that the US government is closely cooperating with the Philippines.
“We hope that the US will continue to demonstrate good faith,” Ms. de Lima told reporters on Wednesday.
A US embassy spokeswoman did not immediately return calls by the AFP seeking comment.
Filipino police said Mr. Pemberton was the last person seen with the 26-year-old victim, who was found in a hotel bathroom in the red-light district of the northern port city of Olongapo on Oct. 12.
Meanwhile, President Benigno S. C. Aquino III assured on Wednesday that Mr. Pemberton will not receive special treatment while prosecution is ongoing.
Speaking before a Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) forum, Mr. Aquino clarified that the US serviceman is being given “special negative treatment,” because he will be detained while preliminary investigation on the murder complaint against him is ongoing.
He also described Mr. Pemberton’s transfer to the Philippine military headquarters earlier in the day as a “healthy development” in the government’s efforts to seek justice for the victim and showed the United States’ “response to our sensitivities.”
“He is being made available for the investigative, and eventually the judicial, processes,” he said.
However, the President sidestepped questions on Mr. Pemberton’s custody, merely saying the issue will be addressed once the suspect is formally charged and ordered arrested by the Olongapo City court.
Mr. Aquino also committed to settle the case “in the sense that the guilty will be made to answer for the crime.”
The President maintained it would be “far-fetched” to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the US just to stop crimes being committed against Filipinos by US soldiers.
“If we abrogate the VFA, does that mean that nobody from the Philippines will be killed by someone from the US?” he said, adding that the treaty “serves a purpose for our country, and serves a purpose for America.”
During a hearing of the Senate foreign relations committee, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario echoed the President’s sentiments, saying it was the VFA that made prosecuting the US soldier possible. Before the agreement, American servicemen would automatically be tried under their court martial system, he said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=kin-of-slain-transgendered-filipino-breach-security-to-confront-suspect&id=96560
RELATIVES of a slain transgendered Filipino woman climbed the eight-feet high steel fence surrounding a facility in Camp Aguinaldo where the accused killer, a United States serviceman, is currently detained.
Marilou Laude and German national Marc Sueselbeck, the sister and German boyfriend of slain Jeffrey Laude, respectively, breached security to confront the accused, United States Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, authorities said.
However, they were later stopped by patrolling guards before they could get near the second steel fencing surrounding the detention facility.
The military was prompted to deploy more troops, particularly its Civil Disturbance Management Unit, in the surrounding area following the incident to increase security for the detained US Marine.
Mr. Pemberton was transferred to the Philippines’ military headquarters early Wednesday morning, after a huge public clamor for him to be moved off an American warship.
A US helicopter delivered Mr. Pemberton to Camp Aguinaldo where he will be jointly guarded by American and local troops, military chief Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. said.
The accused was detained in a 20-footer (28-cubic-meter) van that was installed inside the facility and will be sleeping in a military-type cot bed with an air-conditioning system
Mr. Catapang said the arrangement was mutually agreed by the two defense allies, whose military ties have been put under scrutiny by the murder.
“I think the US government is also sensitive to our feelings that this unfortunate incident happened, and they also want to show that they believe in our justice system,” Mr. Catapang said.
For her part, Justice Secretary Leila M. de Lima said Mr. Pemberton’s transfer is a clear sign that the US government is closely cooperating with the Philippines.
“We hope that the US will continue to demonstrate good faith,” Ms. de Lima told reporters on Wednesday.
A US embassy spokeswoman did not immediately return calls by the AFP seeking comment.
Filipino police said Mr. Pemberton was the last person seen with the 26-year-old victim, who was found in a hotel bathroom in the red-light district of the northern port city of Olongapo on Oct. 12.
Meanwhile, President Benigno S. C. Aquino III assured on Wednesday that Mr. Pemberton will not receive special treatment while prosecution is ongoing.
Speaking before a Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) forum, Mr. Aquino clarified that the US serviceman is being given “special negative treatment,” because he will be detained while preliminary investigation on the murder complaint against him is ongoing.
He also described Mr. Pemberton’s transfer to the Philippine military headquarters earlier in the day as a “healthy development” in the government’s efforts to seek justice for the victim and showed the United States’ “response to our sensitivities.”
“He is being made available for the investigative, and eventually the judicial, processes,” he said.
However, the President sidestepped questions on Mr. Pemberton’s custody, merely saying the issue will be addressed once the suspect is formally charged and ordered arrested by the Olongapo City court.
Mr. Aquino also committed to settle the case “in the sense that the guilty will be made to answer for the crime.”
The President maintained it would be “far-fetched” to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the US just to stop crimes being committed against Filipinos by US soldiers.
“If we abrogate the VFA, does that mean that nobody from the Philippines will be killed by someone from the US?” he said, adding that the treaty “serves a purpose for our country, and serves a purpose for America.”
During a hearing of the Senate foreign relations committee, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario echoed the President’s sentiments, saying it was the VFA that made prosecuting the US soldier possible. Before the agreement, American servicemen would automatically be tried under their court martial system, he said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=kin-of-slain-transgendered-filipino-breach-security-to-confront-suspect&id=96560
U.S. Marine in transgender slay detained in Camp Aguinaldo
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Oct 23): U.S. Marine in transgender slay detained in Camp Aguinaldo
A US marine accused in the killing of a Filipino transgender has been transferred Wednesday to a detention facility inside the main headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, out of Camp Lejeune in North Carolina is being suspected of killing the 26-year old Jeffrey Laude inside Celzone Lodge on October 11.
Laude's body was found inside the bathroom with his head slumped in the toilet bowl and believed to have been strangled to death.
President Benigno Aquino III said Pemberton will undergo a preliminary investigation and will not be accorded special treatment.
“He is not being treated with kid gloves and the Americans - may I reiterate - are conforming to the treaty wherein they have to make this person and others available for both the investigative and the judicial processes that are forthcoming,” Aquino said.
The Philippine military said Pemberton remains in the custody of the U.S. as written in the Visiting Forces Agreement. Local authorities and the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service are jointly investigating the killing.
“The AFP merely provides a detention facility as agreed by both U.S. and Philippine government. Also, the AFP provides security augmentation at the facility. He will stay at this facility while the preliminary investigation is ongoing,” said AFP Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.
Pemberton, who is part of the U.S. contingent holding a joint military exercises in the Philippines, is being guarded inside a refrigerated bulk container.
Herminio Coloma, a government spokesman, said Manila and Washington will follow the provisions of the VFA in seeking justice for Laude’s murder. The VFA contains specific provisions on the legal processes to ensure that justice will prevail, he said.
Coloma cited Article 5 of the VFA on criminal jurisdiction that the “Philippine authorities shall have jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses committed within the Philippines and punishable under the law of the Philippines.”
He said Article 5, Paragraph 6 also states that the “custody of any United States personnel over whom the Philippines is to exercise jurisdiction shall immediately reside with United States military authorities, if they so request, from the commission of the offense until completion of all judicial proceedings.”
The U.S. Embassy said: “The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation.”
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/10/us-marine-in-transgender-slay-detained.html
A US marine accused in the killing of a Filipino transgender has been transferred Wednesday to a detention facility inside the main headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, out of Camp Lejeune in North Carolina is being suspected of killing the 26-year old Jeffrey Laude inside Celzone Lodge on October 11.
Laude's body was found inside the bathroom with his head slumped in the toilet bowl and believed to have been strangled to death.
President Benigno Aquino III said Pemberton will undergo a preliminary investigation and will not be accorded special treatment.
“He is not being treated with kid gloves and the Americans - may I reiterate - are conforming to the treaty wherein they have to make this person and others available for both the investigative and the judicial processes that are forthcoming,” Aquino said.
The Philippine military said Pemberton remains in the custody of the U.S. as written in the Visiting Forces Agreement. Local authorities and the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service are jointly investigating the killing.
“The AFP merely provides a detention facility as agreed by both U.S. and Philippine government. Also, the AFP provides security augmentation at the facility. He will stay at this facility while the preliminary investigation is ongoing,” said AFP Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.
Pemberton, who is part of the U.S. contingent holding a joint military exercises in the Philippines, is being guarded inside a refrigerated bulk container.
Herminio Coloma, a government spokesman, said Manila and Washington will follow the provisions of the VFA in seeking justice for Laude’s murder. The VFA contains specific provisions on the legal processes to ensure that justice will prevail, he said.
Coloma cited Article 5 of the VFA on criminal jurisdiction that the “Philippine authorities shall have jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses committed within the Philippines and punishable under the law of the Philippines.”
He said Article 5, Paragraph 6 also states that the “custody of any United States personnel over whom the Philippines is to exercise jurisdiction shall immediately reside with United States military authorities, if they so request, from the commission of the offense until completion of all judicial proceedings.”
The U.S. Embassy said: “The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation.”
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/10/us-marine-in-transgender-slay-detained.html
Military will not relent in anti-Sayyaf campaign
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Oct 23): Military will not relent in anti-Sayyaf campaign
The Philippine military will not relent in its operation against the Abu Sayyaf group in the southern region as security forces continue tracking down militants who are still holding over a dozen foreign and Filipino hostages.
President Benigno Aquino has ordered fresh offensive against the Abu Sayyaf following the safe release of two German hostages Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71, and Henrike Diesen, 55, who were kidnapped at sea off Palawan province on April 25.
Aquino said the government is carrying out a two-pronged approach in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf. "The government is using military power to crush the rebel group but is also exerting efforts to develop Mindanao. The military and the police are implementing security measures to combat the Abu Sayyaf," he said.
He declined to give details of the ongoing operations, but said the public will see "very significant accomplishments as far as suppressing the Abu Sayyaf is concerned."
He said while military operations are being carried out, the government is also undertaking peace initiatives in Mindanao. "Even before we signed the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front), we have been trying to show the people of the ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) the benefits of peace," Aquino said.
For instance, Aquino said there are more than 700,000 new beneficiaries in the government health system and that the government's Sajahatra (peace) program is transitioning into a formal institution to give the people livelihood skills so they could participate in the development of Mindanao.
He further said that the Department of Trade and Industry has set up markets for the mangosteen and lanzones produce of Sulu, hoping this would spur economic activity not only in the province, but also in Basilan and Tawi-Tawi as well.
"We will try to change the status quo to get them to buy into the system and be partners in development rather than people who stifle the development activities in the area," Aquino said.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/10/military-will-not-relent-in-anti-sayyaf.html
The Philippine military will not relent in its operation against the Abu Sayyaf group in the southern region as security forces continue tracking down militants who are still holding over a dozen foreign and Filipino hostages.
President Benigno Aquino has ordered fresh offensive against the Abu Sayyaf following the safe release of two German hostages Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71, and Henrike Diesen, 55, who were kidnapped at sea off Palawan province on April 25.
Aquino said the government is carrying out a two-pronged approach in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf. "The government is using military power to crush the rebel group but is also exerting efforts to develop Mindanao. The military and the police are implementing security measures to combat the Abu Sayyaf," he said.
He declined to give details of the ongoing operations, but said the public will see "very significant accomplishments as far as suppressing the Abu Sayyaf is concerned."
He said while military operations are being carried out, the government is also undertaking peace initiatives in Mindanao. "Even before we signed the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front), we have been trying to show the people of the ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) the benefits of peace," Aquino said.
For instance, Aquino said there are more than 700,000 new beneficiaries in the government health system and that the government's Sajahatra (peace) program is transitioning into a formal institution to give the people livelihood skills so they could participate in the development of Mindanao.
He further said that the Department of Trade and Industry has set up markets for the mangosteen and lanzones produce of Sulu, hoping this would spur economic activity not only in the province, but also in Basilan and Tawi-Tawi as well.
"We will try to change the status quo to get them to buy into the system and be partners in development rather than people who stifle the development activities in the area," Aquino said.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/10/military-will-not-relent-in-anti-sayyaf.html
PNoy: Expect significant accomplishments against Abu Sayyaf
From Ang Malaya (Oct 22): PNoy: Expect significant accomplishments against Abu Sayyaf
The Filipino people can expect significant accomplishments in the campaign against the terror group Abu Sayyaf in the coming weeks, President Aquino said during an event organized by foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines admitted that some factors are affecting their efforts against the bandits. One of the main factor that hinders their campaign is heavy rain. In tracking operations, rain is a challenge for military troops because traces are washed out.
Another hindrance is the Sayyafs incorporate themselves among civilians.
But Task Force Sulu Commander Col. Allan Arrojado said “We have already entered their enclave that for so long the troops could not patrol… It is just a matter of time and with a lot of patience we can nail them down.”
The President said that the terror group has around 200 armed men.
After the freeing of two German hostages, Aquino ordered for a round the clock offensive campaign. “Wala silang humpay at palagay ko naman dapat rin tapatan ng estado na walang humpay ‘yung pagtutugis sa kanila.”
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/22/5200-pnoy-expect-significant-accomplishments-against-abu-sayyaf
The Filipino people can expect significant accomplishments in the campaign against the terror group Abu Sayyaf in the coming weeks, President Aquino said during an event organized by foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines admitted that some factors are affecting their efforts against the bandits. One of the main factor that hinders their campaign is heavy rain. In tracking operations, rain is a challenge for military troops because traces are washed out.
Another hindrance is the Sayyafs incorporate themselves among civilians.
But Task Force Sulu Commander Col. Allan Arrojado said “We have already entered their enclave that for so long the troops could not patrol… It is just a matter of time and with a lot of patience we can nail them down.”
The President said that the terror group has around 200 armed men.
After the freeing of two German hostages, Aquino ordered for a round the clock offensive campaign. “Wala silang humpay at palagay ko naman dapat rin tapatan ng estado na walang humpay ‘yung pagtutugis sa kanila.”
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/22/5200-pnoy-expect-significant-accomplishments-against-abu-sayyaf
Suspected JI bomber arrested in Maguindanao to be transferred to Manila
From InterAksyon (Oct 22): Suspected JI bomber arrested in Maguindanao to be transferred to Manila
A suspected big-time bomber arrested Tuesday morning is scheduled to be transferred to Manila today.
The transfer is to treat the suspect, identified as Abi Salman alias Sauman Usman and Nanam, who was hit in the right leg when he tried to grab an M16 Armalite rifle from one of the arresting officers during a joint operation in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao.
Salman is linked to bombings in different parts of Central Mindanao and is believed to be a nephew of Jemaah Islamiyah-trained bomber Basit Usman.
Salman’s arrest was based on the arrest warrant released by Judge Rogelio Narisma of Regional Trial Court Branch 23, Kidapawan City due to cases of multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder, and attempted murder, said Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao director Chief Supt. Noel Delos Reyes.
Operatives of the SPMKI-OCPNP, Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG), PNP Intelligence Group, S2 45th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, Maguindanao Provincial Police Office, with the help of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), participated in the operation, added delos Reyes.
Salman is said to have a reward of P1.3-million on his head.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97727/suspected-ji-bomber-arrested-in-maguindanao-to-be-transferred-to-manila
A suspected big-time bomber arrested Tuesday morning is scheduled to be transferred to Manila today.
The transfer is to treat the suspect, identified as Abi Salman alias Sauman Usman and Nanam, who was hit in the right leg when he tried to grab an M16 Armalite rifle from one of the arresting officers during a joint operation in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao.
Salman is linked to bombings in different parts of Central Mindanao and is believed to be a nephew of Jemaah Islamiyah-trained bomber Basit Usman.
Salman’s arrest was based on the arrest warrant released by Judge Rogelio Narisma of Regional Trial Court Branch 23, Kidapawan City due to cases of multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder, and attempted murder, said Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao director Chief Supt. Noel Delos Reyes.
Operatives of the SPMKI-OCPNP, Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG), PNP Intelligence Group, S2 45th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, Maguindanao Provincial Police Office, with the help of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), participated in the operation, added delos Reyes.
Salman is said to have a reward of P1.3-million on his head.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97727/suspected-ji-bomber-arrested-in-maguindanao-to-be-transferred-to-manila
DFA chief defends VFA
From InterAksyon (Oct 22): DFA chief defends VFA
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario on Wednesday defended the Visiting Forces Agreement, saying that the pact is the reason why the Philippines has jurisdiction over the murder of Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude by suspect United States Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton.
In a statement read before the hearing on the case by the Senate committee on foreign relations, del Rosario said Philippine jurisdiction over the Subic rape case of 2005 was also due to the VFA.
“There have been many questions as to whether the VFA is actually an instrument which allows us to pursue the ends of justice, or if it is an unfair agreement,” del Rosario said.
“Many have called for the abrogation of the VFA due to this incident, and other incidents such as the Subic rape case of 2005. However, it is precisely because the VFA is there that we are actually able to exercise jurisdiction over these servicemen,” he added.
Except for offenses solely against the security, property, or person of the United States government and personnel, del Rosario emphasized that “under the VFA, the Philippines unquestionably enjoys the primary right to exercise jurisdiction over offenses committed by US servicemen in the Philippines.”
The DFA secretary also noted that “the constitutionality of the Visiting Forces Agreement has been upheld by the Supreme Court in the cases of Bayan v. Zamora, Lim v. Executive Secretary, and Nicolas v. Romulo.”
Citing the Supreme Court in Nicolas vs. Romulo, the country’s chief diplomat said of the custody issue: “We are aware that prior to conviction, the US has the right to retain custody over its servicemen under Article 5, section 6 of the VFA. But such right can be waived, and we affirm that if a warrant of arrest is issued, we will request the US to turn over the serviceman’s custody to us.”
Bottom line
At the same time, the DFA secretary said the United States has been informed that the Philippines will not accept Pemberton’s detention in the US embassy.
“The bottom line, Your Honor, is that the US is fully aware that for the Philippine Government, it will be totally unacceptable for them to detain Private 1st Class Pemberton within the premises of the US Embassy, as was done in the Lance Corporal Daniel Smith case,” he said, referring to the case of the principal suspect in the Subic rape case.
Del Rosario also told the Senate hearing of Pemberton’s transfer from the USS Peleliu to Camp Aguinaldo.
When the country hosted US military bases, US had jurisdiction over crimes committed by US servicemen inside the bases, he said.
“Unlike in previous times when the country was hosting US bases, the Philippines now has the authority to prosecute US servicemen in the Philippines, to try them in the Philippines, and if convicted, to jail them in the Philippines,” del Rosario said.
“And because of this, we are actually now exercising our jurisdiction over this heinous crime allegedly committed by a US serviceman. We have not hesitated to inform the US authorities that the Philippines is exercising its primary jurisdiction over this case, and we are not conceding this right. We fully expect the US therefore to cooperate with the Philippine Government in the pursuit of justice,” he added.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97745/dfa-chief-defends-vfa
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario on Wednesday defended the Visiting Forces Agreement, saying that the pact is the reason why the Philippines has jurisdiction over the murder of Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude by suspect United States Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton.
In a statement read before the hearing on the case by the Senate committee on foreign relations, del Rosario said Philippine jurisdiction over the Subic rape case of 2005 was also due to the VFA.
“There have been many questions as to whether the VFA is actually an instrument which allows us to pursue the ends of justice, or if it is an unfair agreement,” del Rosario said.
“Many have called for the abrogation of the VFA due to this incident, and other incidents such as the Subic rape case of 2005. However, it is precisely because the VFA is there that we are actually able to exercise jurisdiction over these servicemen,” he added.
Except for offenses solely against the security, property, or person of the United States government and personnel, del Rosario emphasized that “under the VFA, the Philippines unquestionably enjoys the primary right to exercise jurisdiction over offenses committed by US servicemen in the Philippines.”
The DFA secretary also noted that “the constitutionality of the Visiting Forces Agreement has been upheld by the Supreme Court in the cases of Bayan v. Zamora, Lim v. Executive Secretary, and Nicolas v. Romulo.”
Citing the Supreme Court in Nicolas vs. Romulo, the country’s chief diplomat said of the custody issue: “We are aware that prior to conviction, the US has the right to retain custody over its servicemen under Article 5, section 6 of the VFA. But such right can be waived, and we affirm that if a warrant of arrest is issued, we will request the US to turn over the serviceman’s custody to us.”
Bottom line
At the same time, the DFA secretary said the United States has been informed that the Philippines will not accept Pemberton’s detention in the US embassy.
“The bottom line, Your Honor, is that the US is fully aware that for the Philippine Government, it will be totally unacceptable for them to detain Private 1st Class Pemberton within the premises of the US Embassy, as was done in the Lance Corporal Daniel Smith case,” he said, referring to the case of the principal suspect in the Subic rape case.
Del Rosario also told the Senate hearing of Pemberton’s transfer from the USS Peleliu to Camp Aguinaldo.
When the country hosted US military bases, US had jurisdiction over crimes committed by US servicemen inside the bases, he said.
“Unlike in previous times when the country was hosting US bases, the Philippines now has the authority to prosecute US servicemen in the Philippines, to try them in the Philippines, and if convicted, to jail them in the Philippines,” del Rosario said.
“And because of this, we are actually now exercising our jurisdiction over this heinous crime allegedly committed by a US serviceman. We have not hesitated to inform the US authorities that the Philippines is exercising its primary jurisdiction over this case, and we are not conceding this right. We fully expect the US therefore to cooperate with the Philippine Government in the pursuit of justice,” he added.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97745/dfa-chief-defends-vfa
GPH-NDF meet in Utrecht won’t take up release of soldiers held by NPA in Bukidnon
From MindaNews (Oct 22): GPH-NDF meet in Utrecht won’t take up release of soldiers held by NPA in Bukidnon
The release of two Army soldiers held captive by the New People’s Army in Bukidnon will not be taken up in a meeting between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) in Utrecht in the Netherlands this week, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles said Wednesday.
Deles said the meeting in Utrecht will be “low-key” and will focus on finding ways to resume the stalled peace talks between the government and the NDF.
“There is no ceasefire. The release of the POWs will not be taken up in the meeting,” the official said during a roundtable discussion with journalists in Makati City.
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma and Iglesia Filipina Independiente Bishop Felixberto Calang met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin last week to renew their request for a suspension of military operations to pave the way for the safe release of two soldiers held by the rebels in Bukidnon.
Army Privates First Class Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong have been held captive by the NPA since August 22.
The military in Bukidnon said the two soldiers were snatched by the NPA while buying food supplies at a market in Impasugong, Bukidnon.
They were scheduled to be released last September but the plan was cancelled for unknown reasons.
Ledesma and Calang have taken up the cudgel of the families of the captured soldiers, and have asked both sides to ensure their safe release.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/10/22/gph-ndf-meet-in-utrecht-wont-take-up-release-of-soldiers-held-by-npa-in-bukidnon/
The release of two Army soldiers held captive by the New People’s Army in Bukidnon will not be taken up in a meeting between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) in Utrecht in the Netherlands this week, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles said Wednesday.
Deles said the meeting in Utrecht will be “low-key” and will focus on finding ways to resume the stalled peace talks between the government and the NDF.
“There is no ceasefire. The release of the POWs will not be taken up in the meeting,” the official said during a roundtable discussion with journalists in Makati City.
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma and Iglesia Filipina Independiente Bishop Felixberto Calang met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin last week to renew their request for a suspension of military operations to pave the way for the safe release of two soldiers held by the rebels in Bukidnon.
Army Privates First Class Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong have been held captive by the NPA since August 22.
The military in Bukidnon said the two soldiers were snatched by the NPA while buying food supplies at a market in Impasugong, Bukidnon.
They were scheduled to be released last September but the plan was cancelled for unknown reasons.
Ledesma and Calang have taken up the cudgel of the families of the captured soldiers, and have asked both sides to ensure their safe release.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/10/22/gph-ndf-meet-in-utrecht-wont-take-up-release-of-soldiers-held-by-npa-in-bukidnon/