Sierra Madre tribe to AFP, NPA: Leave us alone

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 17): Sierra Madre tribe to AFP, NPA: Leave us alone

A group of indigenous people living on a mountain range that has become a battleground in the counterinsurgency campaign called on government soldiers and communist rebels to spare its ancestral land from clashes.

Ramcy Astoveza, Agta tribe chieftain, said that while his people welcomed the government declaration of a one-month holiday truce in its offensive against the New People’s Army (NPA) and expected the NPA to reciprocate, his tribe just wanted to be left in peace.

Astoveza said what the tribe really wanted was for soldiers and rebels to spare communities of Agta in the Sierra Madre mountain range from fighting.

“What we desire is for a total stop to any form of violence from both of them,” Astoveza said.

“What we want is total peace in Sierra Madre,” he said.

On Monday, President Aquino approved a unilateral ceasefire with the rebels to begin shortly before Christmas (Dec. 19) and end on the day Pope Francis leaves the country after a four-day visit (Jan. 19, 2015).

Astoveza said the Agta people should not be caught in the crossfire of the counterinsurgency campaign but the construction of military camps in their midst was driving the tribal folk into the middle of the war.

The military has defended the camp inside the ancestral land of the Agta tribe, saying its presence there was approved by the landowner.

The camp, according to Maj. Angelo Guzman, public information officer of the Armed Forcesí Southern Luzon Command, “is relatively far from the (Agta) community.”

But Astoveza said the camp, though on a land owned by a lowlander, was still inside a tribal community.

“We’re peace-loving people. Our children are not used to seeing persons with guns,” he said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/657599/sierra-madre-tribe-to-afp-npa-leave-us-alone

Seven Indonesian nationals detained for alleged terrorist activities

From Astro Awani (Dec 16): Seven Indonesian nationals detained for alleged terrorist activities

Kuala Lumpur: Seven Indonesian nationals were detained in raids conducted in Selangor recently on suspicion of being involved in terrorist activities by making Malaysia as a transit before going to Syria, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said Monday.

He said the suspects, comprising three men and four women, aged between 25 and 35, were detained in raids conducted last Dec 2.
"One of them is a facilitator who arranged the departure of Indonesian militants to Syria, and is suspected to have links with Umar Patek, a senior member of the Abu Sayyaf group and Al-Qaeda in South Asia," he said in a statement here on Monday.

He said the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) was firm in addressing issues on international militant members making Malaysia as a transit before going to a third country.

The arrest of the suspects is a result of close cooperation between PDRM and regional and international enforcement and intelligence agencies, he added.

 http://english.astroawani.com/news/show/seven-indonesian-nationals-detained-alleged-terrorist-activities-34043         

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Sajahatra Bangsamoro drive benefits 1,085

From the Sun Star-Davao (Dec 16): Sajahatra Bangsamoro drive benefits 1,085

A TOTAL of 1,085 in Davao Region benefited from the pilot implementation of the National Government's Sajahatra Bangsamoro initiative.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Davao social welfare officer III and assistant focal person of the program Dalmin Faith Igana, in an interview, said they started implementing the program on October this year.

"Gipababa ang budget September. Gisugdan namo ang project October (The budget was given out last September and we started the project in October)," she said.

The program, which aims to deliver the initial dividends of the peace agreement to Bangsamoro communities, was developed by President Benigno Aquino III and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim on the day that the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) was signed in Malacanang in October 2012.

Sajahatra Bangasamoro was launched last February 2013.

According to Igana, the program has three components: livelihood, health and education.

There are currently 535 beneficiaries under DSWD's cash-for-work program under livelihood, 550 beneficiaries for the supplementary feeding program under health and they are currently constructing a day care center in an area in Mati which is under education.

Under the program, she said beneficiaries are mobilized to serve for 10 days of paid community work per month in a span of three months.

Igana said that the 1,085 beneficiaries in Davao Region are part of the 11,000 that were covered so far by the program being implemented in Regions 10, 12 and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm).

She said that in order to observe fairness and equality, they have chosen a fair number of male and female beneficiaries.

Igana also said that the cash-for-work program is currently ongoing while the supplementary feeding program will begin in January next year.

Total budget for the implementation of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro is P4,270,700.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2014/12/16/sajahatra-bangsamoro-drive-benefits-1085-382375

Nine terror detainees still in custody

From the Straits Times posted to Asia One (Dec 17): Nine terror detainees still in custody

Thirteen years ago, Singapore rounded up 13 men in its first terrorism-related detentions and foiled a Jemaah Islamiah (JI) plot to bomb key spots.

Today, just nine of the 66 men detained over the years for terrorism-related activities remain in custody, Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Masagos Zulkifli told The Straits Times.

He gave this update in an interview where he touched on Singapore's rehabilitation efforts, which have attracted attention from several countries.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also said Singapore will host an East Asia Summit symposium on de-radicalisation for experts to share best practices.

Mr Masagos attributes Singapore's success in rehabilitating most detainees to the efforts of the Muslim community. A key player in it is the Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG), made up of Islamic religious teachers who voluntarily counsel detainees and others.

"If theirs was a salaried government job, the detainees may say, it's just a process... something the Government does anyway. "But because the community came forward, showed their care and concern and engaged them, tried to convince them they had the wrong concepts, we have won them over," he said.

Most of the 66 detained under the Internal Security Act since 2002 were members of JI and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Among them are also self-radicalised individuals who made plans to travel to conflict zones, like Syria and Afghanistan.

With just nine men left in detention, and the others released after being assessed to have been rehabilitated, Mr Masagos said: "This is far, far better than any other outcome in any other country, where they try to address terrorism from a legal point of view, with detention, with incarceration, but no solution to resolving issues from within."

He also said the RRG continues to counsel the remaining nine in detention, some of whom lash out at the counsellors. Most of the nine are leaders with deep-rooted radical beliefs, he said.

Among those still detained are former Singapore JI leader Mas Selamat Kastari, who escaped in 2008 and was recaptured; and his son, Masyhadi, who was arrested in Indonesia and deported last year.

Another is self-radicalised former polytechnic lecturer Abdul Basheer Abdul Kader, the only former detainee to relapse.

There have been no new detainees since last year, Mr Masagos said, but some people have been called up for online comments that lean towards the ideology of militant group ISIS, which poses a new global threat.

This article was first published on Dec 15, 2014.

http://news.asiaone.com/news/singapore/nine-terror-detainees-still-custody

Gov’t defends legality of EDCA before SC

From the Philippine Star (Dec 17): Gov’t defends legality of EDCA before SC

The government has firmed up its position on the constitutionality of the controversial Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the US in a 42-page memorandum filed with the Supreme Court.

In the memorandum filed last Monday, Solicitor General Florin Hilbay sought the dismissal of the petitions filed by groups led by former senators Rene Saguisag and Wigberto Tañada last May seeking to declare EDCA unconstitutional.

Hilbay, who represents the Palace in the case, reiterated that the agreement is valid and can stand even without the concurrence of the Senate.

The top government lawyer argued that a referral to the Senate could be construed as nullification of the agreement for non-compliance of Article XVIII, Section 25 of the Constitution.

This provision states: “After the expiration in 1991 of the Agreement between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America concerning military bases, foreign military bases, troops or facilities shall not be allowed in the Philippines except under a treaty duly concurred in by the Senate and, when the Congress so requires, ratified by a majority of the votes cast by the people in a national referendum held for that purpose, and recognized as a treaty by the other contracting State.”

Hilbay explained that a referral, raised by Associate Justice Marvic Leonen during oral arguments last month, would diminish the President’s powers and in turn adversely affect the country’s standing in the international community.

He again stressed that EDCA is not a treaty as claimed by petitioners, but rather an implementing agreement of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the 1999 Visiting Forces Agreement.

The SolGen also pointed out that executive agreements, which belong to a distinct category of legal instruments subject to judicial review, are allowed by the Constitution.

“Their view flies in the face of the text of the Constitution, the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court and the long-standing practice of the Executive Department. In fact, executive agreements are mentioned in the Constitution, in Article VIII, Section 4(2) and Article VIII, Section 5(2),” he argued.

Hilbay also cited the Senate’s silence and non-participation in the petitions as an affirmation of the President’s stance that the EDCA is a valid executive agreement.

“To date, the Senate has not issued a resolution expressing its objection to the EDCA, much less authorized any of its members to file a suit on its behalf,” he said.

Cheapening Constitution

He also called the attention of the SC to petitioner’s overuse of the “transcendental importance” factor, cheapening Constitutional safeguards and turning the high court into a venue for “historical grievances and purely symbolic claim.”

The SolGen likewise reiterated that EDCA is necessary in addressing external and internal security issues confronting the country, including the latter’s territorial dispute with China over islands in the West Philippine Sea.

Nullifying EDCA, he warned, “will bring incalculable damage to our national security.”

Hilbay also rejected the petitioners’ allegation that the EDCA would provide tax exemptions to the US.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/12/17/1403566/govt-defends-legality-edca-sc

Militants call anew for VFA junking if US refuses to surrender Pemberton

From GMA News (Dec 17): Militants call anew for VFA junking if US refuses to surrender Pemberton

Militants on Wednesday made a fresh call for the scrapping of the RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement following the United States' position not to surrender Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton, the Marine charged with murder for the killing of transgender woman Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude.

 

The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan made the call after US Ambassador Philip Goldberg claimed the US should have custody of Pemberton due to the VFA.

 

"In light of the US government’s continuing refusal to surrender Pemberton despite a standing warrant of arrest and a formal request by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Aquino government must terminate the VFA," Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr. said.

 

Such termination will render inoperable other agreements such as the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement, he added.

 

Earlier Wednesday, radio dzRH quoted Goldberg as saying "The VFA requires the custody to be with the US." 

 

On Monday, the Olongapo City Prosecutor's Office filed a murder case against Pemberton for the Laude killing, and an arrest warrant was issued against him Tuesday.

 

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it served Pemberton's warrant of arrest at the US Embassy Tuesday night.

 

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the Philippine government will move to gain sole custody over Pemberton.

 

Reyes said Goldberg's assertions show "the lopsidedness of the VFA."

 

"The US government’s interpretation of the VFA is that under any and all circumstances, the custody of an accused US serviceman will always remain with the US for the duration of the judicial proceedings. They point to a provision in the VFA where custody of an accused US soldier 'immediately resides' with the US upon request of the US. The US embassy belittles a provision in the VFA where the Philippine government may seek custody of a US solider especially in extraordinary cases. The VFA requires the US to merely take note of the request of the PH government," he said.

 

He added the VFA by design favors the US and is "an affront to our sovereignty and our entire legal system."

 

"The VFA shames the Philippines. The US embassy’s refusal to turn over Pemberton is an insult to our nation and our people," he said.

 

Reyes said President Benigno Aquino III "should at least have the backbone to stand up to the US in this matter of national importance."

 

"A Filipino was murdered. Our justice system is being undermined. Enough is enough," he said.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/392950/news/nation/militants-call-anew-for-vfa-junking-if-us-refuses-to-surrender-pemberton

US envoy insists Pemberton should be in US custody

From GMA News (Dec 17): US envoy insists Pemberton should be in US custody

Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton, the Marine charged with murder for the killing of transgender woman Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude, should be in the United States' custody, the US envoy to Manila said Wednesday.

 

Radio dzRH quoted Ambassador Philip Goldberg as saying this is contained in the RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement.

 

It quoted Goldberg as saying "The VFA requires the custody to be with the US." 

 

On Monday, the Olongapo City Prosecutor's Office filed a murder case against Pemberton for the Laude killing, and an arrest warrant was issued against him Tuesday.

 

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it served Pemberton's warrant of arrest at the US Embassy Tuesday night.

 

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the Philippine government will move to gain sole custody over Pemberton.

 

Promotion

 

Meanwhile, Goldberg said there was nothing irregular about Pemberton's promotion to Lance Corporal from Private First Class.

 

He was quoted by dzRH as saying the promotion "has nothing to do with the case" and that it was already "on trail before the incident."

 

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police will remain on "wait and see" situation as far as serving the arrest warrant is concerned, radio dzBB's Tuesday Niu reported.

DZBB Super Radyo @dzbb

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AFP at PNP, nasa 'wait and see situation' ngayon kaugnay ng ipinalabas na warrant of arrest vs Pfc. Joseph Pemberton. | via @mamutuesdayniu

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http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/392932/news/nation/us-envoy-insists-pemberton-should-be-in-us-custody   

MILF: Basilan Young Leaders attend orientation on BBL and Parliamentary Procedures

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 18): Basilan Young Leaders attend orientation on BBL and Parliamentary Procedures



Isabela City, Basilan- About 45 student leaders and young legislators from all over Basilan attended an orientation/briefing on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and Parliamentary Procedures on December 12-13, 20 14 at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Hall, Basilan Provincial Capitol, Isabela City.
  

This training dubbed “Young Legislator’s Camp, with the Theme; Bridging Unity among Mindanaoans through the Bangsamoro Basic Law” was organized jointly by the office of Anak Mindanao Partylist Representative Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman and the Office of the Provincial Vice Governor headed by Keemhar Jay R. Sakkalahul,  John Mark G. Fojas,  focal person of the youth camp program said.

Mr. Fojas also said that the purpose of the gathering is to familiarize young leaders with the nitty-gritty of parliamentary system in preparation for the Bangsamoro Government in 2016 and beyond.

Prof. Emmauel S. Quizo of the Ateneo De Zamboanga University discussed Parliamentary Procedure while Prof. Ahmad Y. Al-Amin of Basilan State College representing the Yakan City Committee of the MILF presented and discussed the salient provisions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by way of power point presentation.

Prof. Al-Amin briefly explained the preamble, name and purpose of BBL, the core territory, the System of Bangsamoro Government including the three distinctive powers (reserved, concurrent and the exclusive). He also discussed revenue generations by the Bangsamoro and the process of sharing them between the Central and the Bangsamoro government. The block grant and the special development fund for the new region were also discussed by Prof. Al-Amin.

Mr. Fojas moderated the open forum and advised the young leaders to address their queries and concerns to the chairman. One participant asked, “Why ARMM is going to be replaced by Bangsamoro government? What is the assurance that the latter is better than the new political entity”?

Prof. Al-Amin answered and quoted President Benigno Aquino’s remarks made during the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) on October 15, 2012, that the “ARMM is a failed experiment”.

All other questions, doubts, and concerns of the participants were intelligently answered by Prof. Al-Amin, a respected academician.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1410-basilan-young-leaders-attend-orientation-on-bbl-and-parliamentary-procedures

MILF: BLMI conducts advocacy on BBL and Normalization inside MILF Camp

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 17): BLMI conducts advocacy on BBL and Normalization inside MILF Camp



The Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) conducted advocacy on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and Normalization inside an MILF-BIAF Camp in Tawi-Tawi Province on December 12-13, 2014. 

The objective of the activity was to update the Moro combatants on BBL, Normalization and gains of the GPH-MILF Peace process.  

The team of BLMI Peace Advocates travelled from their main Office in Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao to the provincial capital town of Bongao via Zamboanga City. Under the blazing sun on board a pump-boat it took them almost three hours from Bongao before reaching the MILF satellite camp at about 12:00 noon.

The team composed of Tirso Tahir, BLMI Research Officer, Sheik Abdulsalam ‘Sammy’ Alabat, BLMI Extension/Community Action Chief, both members of BLMI’s Steering Committee and Monhamir Guinaid was warmly welcomed by BIAF members who were gleeful and already prepared upon learning that they are to arrive at the camp.  Exotic sea foods and native delicacies were ready and served to the team that partly relieved their exhaustion.

After having rested for a while, Sheikh Alabat presented the overview of the program and stressed the importance of knowing what the BBL all about. Brother Guinaid facilitated the activity and took details of the issues tackled by the speaker and the participants’ reactions or concerns. 

Brother Tahir, a Sama himself and native of Tawi-Tawi lectured on BBL and Normalization, he accentuated his lecture through power point presentation using Tausog and Sinama dialect for the audience to thoroughly understand the presentations.

After the evening prayer, Sheikh Alabat, a Shar’iah Expert lectured on Bangsamoro Justice System as stipulated in Article X of the proposed BBL relating it to Islamic jurisprudence. 

One combatant said, “I am hoping that under the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), Shari’ah Law may be enforced for the Bangsamoro Muslims as it is part of our Islamic belief”.

Brother Tahir also discussed the Annex on Normalization, Bangsamoro Police force and the mechanisms on the decommissioning of MILF weapons.

”We want to see the dawn of peace and development in our province not only for us but for the next generation to feel and enjoy. We are hoping that this proposed BBL will be enacted very soon if Allah wills”, another participant said.
 
During the program culmination, BIAF combatants expressed their profound gratitude to the BLMI Team, the European Union (EU) and the Conciliation Resources (CR) for providing them correct information and capacity enhancement right inside their camp.

Many BLMI advocacy programs are funded by the EU through the CR, an International non-Government Organization, GPH-MILF partners in the peace process.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1409-blmi-conducts-advocacy-on-bbl-and-normalization-inside-milf-camp

CPP: Ceasefire Declaration for traditional holidays, CPP anniversary and Pope Francis’ visit

Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 17): Ceasefire Declaration for traditional holidays, CPP anniversary and Pope Francis’ visit

CPP Central Committee

 

The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) hereby issues this ceasefire declaration to all commands and units of the New People’s Army (NPA) and people’s militia to take effect during the following periods:

12:01 am of December 24, 2014 to 11:59 pm of December 26, 2014;

12:01 am of December 31, 2014 to 11:59 pm of January 1, 2015; and

12:01 am of January 15, 2015 to 11:59 pm of January 19, 2015.

During the aforementioned days, all units of the New People’s Army and people’s militia are ordered to desist from carrying out offensive operations against units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police and the various armed paramilitary groups attached to the Government of the Philippines (GPH).

This declaration is being issued in solidarity with the Filipino people in their observance of traditional holidays which coincides with the CPP anniversary celebrations on December 26.

This ceasefire declaration is also being issued in deference to the upcoming visit of Roman Catholic patriarch Pope Francis which the Filipino people look forward to as an opportunity for religious celebration and to raise outstanding issues such as military abuses and violations of human rights and children’s rights, Hacienda Luisita and widespread landlessness, poverty and exploitation of peasants and workers, bureaucratic corruption and government neglect of calamity survivors and the poor.

While this ceasefire declaration is in effect, all units of the NPA and the people’s militia shall remain in active defense mode. All commanders, Red fighters and militia should remain ever vigilant and alert against the treacherous encroachment of operating military troops and police personnel of the GPH into the territories of the people’s democratic government.

All units of the NPA and people’s militia must always be prepared to take the option of engaging the aggressive units of the enemy in self-defense in order to prevent them from committing acts of brutality and repression with impunity.

The people should likewise remain alert against the Aquino regime’s continuing campaigns of suppression under Oplan Bayanihan. The Aquino regime is using Pope Francis’ visit as pretext to deploy large numbers of armed troops to prevent the people from organizing and collectively expressing their national and democratic aspirations during the visit.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141217_ceasefire-declaration-for-traditional-holidays-cpp-anniversary-and-pope-francis-visit

US on EDCA: We have a very good agreement

From Ang Malaya (Dec 17): US on EDCA: We have a very good agreement

United States Ambassador to Philippines Philip Goldberg defends Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which is constitutionality is now being studied by Philippine Supreme Court.

“We have a very good agreement that is in the mutual interest of both countries. It provides for further deepening of our mutual defense,” Goldberg told TV5.

“People here have to realize is what EDCA does is to provide further ability of two countries to work together, to operate together through co-location of our rotating presence here,” the ambassador added.

Office of the Solicitor General filed a 42-page Memorandum to the Supreme Court to strengthen Aquino administration’s position over EDCA. It says that EDCA is a valid executive agreement that could stand even without the concurrence of the Senate.

The SolGen added that Senate’s, as a whole, “silence and non-participation in the petitions is an affirmation of the President’s characterization of the EDCA as an executive agreement.”

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/12/17/6792-us-on-edca-we-have-a-very-good-agreement

Soldier wounded in Iloilo bomb blast

From the Philippine Star (Dec 18): Soldier wounded in Iloilo bomb blast

A soldier was wounded when suspected New People’s Army rebels set off an improvised explosive device in Tubungan, Iloilo on Tuesday.

Pfc. Ronald Minguillo of the 31st Division Reconnaissance Company, suffered a shrapnel wound in the wrist.

Minguillo and several other soldiers were on two military trucks in Barangay Sibukawan when the bomb went off at around 11:15 p.m.

A gunshot was also heard after the explosion.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/12/18/1403771/soldier-wounded-iloilo-bomb-blast

PH Navy's goal: At least 3 submarines

From Rappler (Dec 17): PH Navy's goal: At least 3 submarines

The first step is the creation in 2013 of a submarine office in the Philippine Fleet 'to start developing the necessary skills and infrastructure,' says Navy Vice Commander Caesar Taccad


MODERNIZATION BRIEFING: Navy Vice Commander Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad boasts of the Navy's new assets

The Philippine Navy has formed a submarine office to start the decade-long process of developing people and facilities to prepare them for the possible purchase of submarines, Navy vice commander Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad said in a modernization briefing on Wednesday, December 17.

"Submarines take a lot of gestation period. The rule of thumb in the development of support facilities, the people and technology of operating such a force is 10 years. Now when should we start? We can start now so we can [acquire] 10 years from now," Taccad said.

The first step is the creation in 2013 of a submarine office in the Philippine Fleet "to start developing the necessary skills and infrastructure." It is part of the discussions on what to acquire next after the ongoing P90-billion fresh modernization program is completed.

The second step, Taccad explained, is to have at least 3 submarines. "But if you cannot afford three, get two just like we're getting two frigates and two strategic sealift vessels so they can replace each other during maintenance.

If you only procure one and continuously use it, it will only last for 5 years," Taccad said.

One of the weakest in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is modernizing its navy to achieve minimum credible defense in the wake of escalating tension in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Money is an issue. While China and other neighbors are acquiring submarines, the Philippines is pouring its money into the acquisition of patrol frigates for maritime domain awareness or the ability to monitor what is happening in its waters.

"Maganda sana kung mayroong (It would be great if we could have) submarines, frigates and the multirole fighters. But we need to prioritize so we prioritized the multirole fighters and the frigate," said Taccad.

The Philippine government allotted P90 billion to the military's modernization. The P18.9-billion frigates for the Navy and P18-billion fighter jets for the Air Force are the two big-ticket items that it funded.

"The system of defending the country involves several types of capabilities. The first capability will be what we can afford and yet cover a large space and this will be the patrol vessels. These are low-tech equipment, and low-cost. You can have more and cover a large space," said Taccad
The next stage of modernization is where the submarines can play a role. If the patrol vessels are harassed, for example, the more sophisticated assets like submarines can serve as deterrence to "scare off" intruders.

"If there's a confrontation, we need a capability to protect our patrol vessels so they will not be harassed. These are the high-tech weapon system, which is more sophisticated and therefore costly. We may use frigates with missile capability just to scare off...or it could be the submarines as deterent," said Taccad.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/78243-philippine-navy-submarine

US rejects PH bid for Pemberton custody; embassy checks out Olongapo Hall of Justice, city jail

From InterAksyon (Dec 17): US rejects PH bid for Pemberton custody; embassy checks out Olongapo Hall of Justice, city jail



The facility in Camp Aguinaldo where US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton is detained

The Philippine government said it was dismayed by Washington's stand, invoking the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), formally rejecting the Philippine request to acquire custody of Joseph Scott Pemberton, the Marine charged for the murder of transgender woman Jennifer Laude. Embassy officials on Wednesday inspected the Olongapo City Hall of Justice ahead of the expected appearance of Pemberton, as well as the city jail.

A statement issued by the US embassy in Manila Wednesday said: “In response to a Philippine Government request for custody of Joseph Scott Pemberton, the US Embassy informed the Department of Foreign Affairs on December 17 that the United States will retain custody of Pemberton as provided by the United States-Philippine Visiting Forces Agreement.”

“The VFA states that the United States has the right to retain custody of a suspect from the commission of the alleged offense until completion of all judicial proceedings,” the statement added.

PH dismayed over US rejection of custody request 

The Philippine government was dismayed by the US refusal to hand over  Pemberton to Filipino authorities.

“We are disappointed that the US has chosen to invoke their rights under the Visiting Forces Agreement to maintain custody of the accused,” a Department of Foreign Affairs statement on Wednesday said.

The VFA – a defense accord between Manila and Washington that allows American troops to train in the Philippines – states that the US has primary custody of its soldiers involved in criminal cases until the completion of all judicial proceedings.

As provided for under the VFA, Manila asked the US to waive their custody over Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, the primary suspect in the killing of 26-year-old Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude, who was found dead inside a motel in Olongapo City where she was last seen with the US serviceman.

With the US’ denial of Manila’s request for custody, the Philippines said it expects America to honor its obligations under the VFA and to ensure that Pemberton is made available for all required investigation and appearances during court trial.

An arrest warrant was issued by the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court on Tuesday.

The DFA said the US Embassy assured that Pemberton, currently detained in Camp Aguinaldo but under the guard of US military personnel, will comply with the requirement of any investigation or judicial proceedings in accordance with Philippine law.

“PFC Pemberton will remain detained in sovereign Philippine territory, and our Armed Forces will actively participate in ensuring that he remains in the agreed detention facility,” the DFA said.

“We will continue to make the necessary representations in support of the judicial process. We will also remain vigilant in ensuring that the US continues to remain faithful to their obligations under the VFA, to ensure that justice is obtained," it said. 

Warrant to be served within scope of VFA, PHL laws - Palace

The enforcement of warrant of arrest on US Marine Scott Pemberton will be done within the Philippines laws and the purview of the VFA, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said earlier on Wednesday.

”We have to follow the right process right now. There was a warrant of arrest that was issued by the court and so, as a matter of procedure, we have to enforce the warrant,” Lacierda said in a media briefing in Malacanang.

”Now, again, all this should be done within the purview of the VFA,” he said.

Although the VFA provides custody of any American personnel to the US military authorities, Lacierda said still the Philippines should have to issue the warrant of arrest of Pemberton.

”There is the provision of the VFA, but that shouldn’t stop us to formally seek custody of the US serviceman,” Lacierda said.

Lacierda emphasized that the warrant of arrest will be enforced with full coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the VFA and the US Embassy.

”We certainly would hope full cooperation with the US Embassy with respect to this point. But we have to go through the process of the VFA provisions,” he stressed.

On the suggestion of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago to detain Pemberton in a city jail where he committed the crime, Lacierda said “we will have to defer to VFA, the DFA and the Department of Justice.”

Justice chief presses for PH custody

Citing the extraordinary circumstances of the crime for which he is charged before a local court in Olongapo City, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Leila de Lima on Wednesday pressed for Philippine custody of US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton.

"There is also a provision in the Visiting Forces Agreement that, in cases of extraordinary circumstances, the Philippine government can insist on the custody and for me, there are enough such circumstances, such as cruelty and treachery, that justified the filing of the murder charges and not homicide," De Lima explained.

It noted that, “Pemberton is being held at a Philippine military base, Camp Aguinaldo, under guard of US military personnel, with perimeter security provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

At the same time, the embassy said, “The United States will continue to work closely with the Philippine government to help ensure justice is served and the rights of all persons are protected. This includes making the suspect available for all appearances required by the Philippine judicial system.”

The statement is almost the same to one issued by the US embassy on Tuesday, even before the Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, made its formal bid for Pemberton’s custody.

Earlier Wednesday, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said they had “served the note verbale demanding custody last night (Tuesday), the same time we served the arrest warrant” issued by the Olongapo regional trial court against Pemberton.

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago called on the government to demand custody of Pemberton, saying that the law requires his detention in a regular Philippine jail since he is charged of a crime punishable under the Revised Penal Code.

Santiago also said the VFA allows this.

Embassy officials check out courtroom, city jail

Also on Wednesday, US Embassy officials inspected the Hall of Justice in Olongapo City,  ahead of the expected court appearance of Pemberton before RTC Branch 74 either THursday or Friday.

The embassy officials also checked out the Olongapo City  Jail in Camp Barreto, said to be one of possible places where Pemberton could be transferred during the pendency of the trial, from his current cell at a special, tightly guarded holding area in Camp Aguinaldo grounds in Quezon City. As of posting time, however, the US government has refused to entertain the notion of transferring custody of Pemberton.

It was learned that the US Embassy has received a copy of the arrest order on Pemberton, soon after the city prosecutor found probable cause to indict him for the Oct. 11 murder of Laude. The transgender was found dead in Room No. 1 of Celzone Lodge, less than an hour after being seen as having checked in with the US Marine.

The Philippine government has also stepped up efforts to obtain full custody of Pemberton, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and the VFA Commission.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101348/us-rejects-ph-bid-for-pemberton-custody-embassy-checks-out-olongapo-hall-of-justice-city-jail

Reds announce truce for Xmas, New Year's and papal visit

From InterAksyon (Dec 18): Reds announce truce for Xmas, New Year's and papal visit



Communist rebels on Wednesday declared three brief ceasefires, for Christmas, New Year’s and the visit in January of Pope Francis.

“The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) hereby issues this ceasefire declaration to all commands and units of the New People’s Army (NPA) and people’s militia to take effect during the following periods:

12:01 am of December 24, 2014 to 11:59 pm of December 26, 2014;
12:01 am of December 31, 2014 to 11:59 pm of January 1, 2015; and
12:01 am of January 15, 2015 to 11:59 pm of January 19, 2015,” a statement issued by the rebel leadership Wednesday said.

The CPP said the declaration was “issued in solidarity with the Filipino people in their observance of traditional holidays, which coincides with the CPP anniversary celebrations on December 26,” as well as “in deference to the upcoming visit of Roman Catholic patriarch Pope Francis, which the Filipino people look forward to as an opportunity for religious celebration and to raise outstanding issues such as military abuses and violations of human rights and children’s rights, Hacienda Luisita and widespread landlessness, poverty and exploitation of peasants and workers, bureaucratic corruption and government neglect of calamity survivors and the poor.”

During the days covered by the ceasefires, “all units of the New People’s Army and people’s militia are ordered to desist from carrying out offensive operations against units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police and the various armed paramilitary groups attached to the Government of the Philippines (GPH),” the CPP Central Committee said.

However, it said, all NPA and people’s militia units “shall remain in active defense mode” and “should remain ever vigilant and alert against the treacherous encroachment of operating military troops and police personnel of the GPH into the territories of the people’s democratic government.”

It also ordered all rebel units to “be prepared to take the option of engaging the aggressive units of the enemy in self-defense in order to prevent them from committing acts of brutality and repression with impunity” as it warned against government’s alleged intention to use the papal visit “as pretext to deploy large numbers of armed troops to prevent the people from organizing and collectively expressing their national and democratic aspirations.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101364/reds-announce-truce-for-xmas-new-years-and-papal-visit

BIFF commander slain in Maguindanao clash

From InterAksyon (Dec 18): BIFF commander slain in Maguindanao clash

An alleged commander of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters was killed in a three-minute clash with soldiers late Wednesday afternoon in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, the military said.

The fatality, identified only as “Kumander Kamote,” died when troops at a detachment of the Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Labo-labo retaliated when BIFF gunmen opened fire on them past 5 p.m., Captain Joan Petinglay, public affairs officer of the 6th Infantry Division said.

None of the soldiers was hurt in the incident.

Meanwhile, in Sultan Kudarat province, a 12-year old girl died when she was hit by a log on a passing truck in Kalamansig town early Wednesday morning.

Jassy Faye Baltazar Jumamil was walking home after attending the second day of the traditional Misa de Gallo (Christmas dawn masses) in Barangay Limulan when the accident happened.

The girl was rushed to the Lebak Doctors Hospital where she died an hour later.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101389/biff-commander-slain-in-maguindanao-clash

MILF gearing up for 2016 polls

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 17): MILF gearing up for 2016 polls





President Aquino and MILF chieftain Murad Ebrahim during the launching of the 'Sajahatra Bangsamoro' on February 11, 2013. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Mark Navales)

The former rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front is gearing up in preparation for the 2016 national elections and has formed its own political party called United Bangsamoro Justice Party.

Sammy Al-Mansoor, the MILF Chief of Staff, said they have registered the political party with the Securities and Exchange Commission and their lawyers are already preparing to submit the accreditation of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party with the Commission on Elections by next year.

“Yun mga lawyers namin ay pina-fine tune pa ang by-laws ng United Bangsamoro Justice Party bago namin itong ipa-accredit sa Commission on Elections and most likely by next year na ito kasi ngayon at busy ang lahat dahil patapos na ang taon,” Al-Mansoor told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

He said the United Bangsamoro Justice Party is supported by Muslims and non-Muslims in Mindanao and that they are preparing to hold a general assembly anytime soon to further strengthen their political party.

The MILF is currently busy in winning hearts and minds of residents of the Muslim autonomous region - composed of the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, including the cities of Marawi and Lamitan - in support to the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the peace agreement it signed in March this year with the Filipino government. 

Opposition

Despite a massive government campaign for the BBL, many politicians are opposing it for fear that provisions in the proposed law may include their areas in the Bangsamoro regional government which would replace the current Muslim autonomous region. The MILF and the Aquino government have repeatedly assured that the BBL is legal and in accordance with the Constitution.

Christian groups and some Muslims and tribesmen were also opposing the BBL, especially in in Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Zamboanga and Iligan, including Isabela in Basilan, saying they are already at peace and living harmoniously with each other.

Villagers said shortly after the peace deal was signed in March 27, Muslim groups have emerged and started claiming farmlands owned by Christians as theirs and invoking their ancestral rights in Wao town in Lanao del Sur. Now, many residents have started arming themselves for fear that once the new Bangsamoro autonomous government is installed, Muslims will take away their lands which they inherited from their clan. Majority of the town’s 40,000 inhabitants is Christians, although Lanao del Sur is under the restive Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Some villagers claimed several groups of Maranao, one of several Muslim tribes in Mindanao, have started putting up markers and began claiming farmlands as their ancestral domain. The markers had been destroyed by landowners. In Sultan Kudarat province, villagers in the town of President Quirino were also facing the same dilemma, but many also have purchased illegal weapons to protect their families and lands from unjustified takeover by Muslims who warned them that they should leave the town immediately once the Bangsamoro autonomous region is installed because they would take over their farms.

Leaders of the Christian cities of Zamboanga and Isabela in Basilan also vowed to fight against their inclusion in the new Bangsamoro homeland, although many of the residents there are Muslims and supportive of the peace deal. Others were opposing the BBL because of vested interests, especially those who have huge landholdings in the autonomous region which was previously under the rule of the sultans.

Von Al-Haq, a spokesman for the MILF, said the BBL must be ratified and approved before the Bangsamoro regional government could take over the ARMM. He also said an audit is necessary before the Bangsamoro regional government takes over. “Talagang magkakaroon ng audit at normal naman iyan eh,” Al-Haq said in a separate interview.

Gov. Mujiv Hataman, of the Muslim autonomous region, is unlikely to be included in the new Bangsamoro leadership, even if President Aquino would insist that the politician, who is his close political ally, be appointed as caretaker of the Bangsamoro transitional government. “Ibang usapan na yan,” Al-Haq said when asked about this possible scenario.

This after some quarters fear that Aquino may appoint Hataman again in the Bangsamoro government following his appointment as caretaker of the Muslim autonomous regional government in the past.

Al-Mansoor said he was not aware of the reports. “Wala kaming naririnig na ganyan,” he said.

The creation of Bangsamoro autonomous region would have to be decided on a referendum in the autonomous region and in areas where there are large Muslim communities. The new Bangsamoro region will replace the current Muslim autonomous region that has suffered from decades of poverty, corruption, and conflict.

Bangsamoro homeland

The BBL will pave the way for the establishment of the Bangsamoro region in 2016.

Ghazali Jaafar, MILF Vice Chairman for Political Affairs, in his previous statement, doused fears by many groups about the BBL and said it is not an Islamic law. “The Bangsamoro Basic Law that is proposed is not an Islamic Law. These are rules on how to govern the Bangsamoro government. It’s not a law that will alienate the rights of the Filipino people but a law only to provide and facilitate the meaningful and fair implementation of the GPH and MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” Jaafar said during an earlier multi-stakeholders forum on the CAB at the Ateneo de Davao University.

The mineral-rich region of Mindanao, once under the powerful rule of the sultans, is now home to minority Muslims – about 4 million from the region’s 18 million mostly Christian inhabitants.

The Philippine Statistics Authority describes Mindanao as an underdeveloped region with problems on peace and order to racism. “From Spanish era up to the present, it remains underdeveloped compared to Luzon. Problem on peace and order due to political conflict and racism issue had been seen as the main factors of the sluggish development of the island in view of the fact that beliefs and cultural diversities between native inhabitants and migrants are existing (sic) within it,” it said.

The MILF was a breakaway faction of the Moro National Liberation Front which signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/milf-gearing-up-for-2016-polls.html

143 new soldiers hurdle recruit training in Southern Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 18): 143 new soldiers hurdle recruit training in Southern Philippines



Brigadier General Gerardo Barrientos, Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, addresses new soldiers in Zamboanga del Sur province. (Mindanao Examiner)

A total of 143 army recruits finished their rigid training in various fields conducted by the 1st Infantry Division in Labangan town in Zamboanga del Sur province in southern Philippines, officials said Wednesday.

Officials said the new soldiers underwent training on Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operations Course as part of the Candidate Soldiers Course.

The soldiers, whose ages ranged from 21 to 26, came from different provinces in Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao and Misamis Occidental, and have passed the rigid and meticulous screening and processing standard set by the Philippine Army.

Capt. Franco Suelto, an army spokesman, said the soldiers – now enlisted as Privates - would be deployed to different units of the 1st Infantry Division to help maintain peace and security in western Mindanao. 

The enlisted men belong to the “Matalim” (Mandirigmang Tagapagligtas na Laging Iniisip ang Kapakanan ng Mamamayan) Class 348 – 2014.

Suelto said Private Rogen Peregrino, a vocational IT graduate from the town of Mahayag in Zamboanga del Sur and son of a hollow blocks maker and a housewife, received an award from the 1st Infantry Division Award for graduating Number 1.

Brigadier General Gerardo Barrientos, Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division welcomed the new soldiers and congratulated the 1st Division Training School (1DTS) which is responsible for the training of the soldiers.

“Isang malaking responsibilidad ang kabalikat ng inyong pagtatapos ng training na ito.  Mahalaga ang inyong katungkulan at ang pagsapi nyo sa organisasyon AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) ay isang opportunity para magserbisyo sa ating bansa.  Malaki ang inyong mai-aambag sa pag-accomplish ng misyon ng AFP sa kapayapaan at kaunlaran.”

“Naniniwala ako na sapat ang pagsasanay sa inyo ng 1DTS upang gampanan ang inyong tungkulin.  Lagi lamang ninyong alalahanin ang slogan ng ating AFP Chief of Staff (General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.) na ang - Kawal ay Disiplinado, Bawal Abusado, Dapat Asintado - at ang Army Core Values ayon sa Army Transformation Roadmap na honor, duty and professionalism upang lalo nating mapaigting ang ating serbisyo sa mga tao,” Barrientos said.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/143-new-soldiers-hurdle-recruit.html

AFP celebrates 79th founding anniversary Thursday

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17): AFP celebrates 79th founding anniversary Thursday

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will celebrate its 79th founding anniversary on Thursday with a theme “Sandatahang Lakas: Ika-79 taong Naglilingkod ng tapat tungo sa Kapayapaan, Kaunlaran at Kasaganaan”.

President Benigno S. Aquino III, commander-in-chief, will lead the celebration that highlights a testimonial parade and review showcasing the colorful history of the AFP.

The President is also expected to award deserving military personnel, civilian employees, military reservists and ROTC cadets as part of the momentous event.

“Our anniversary celebration will be modest, but special nonetheless since this is an opportunity to showcase developments in our reform and modernization programs in the AFP,” said AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla.

The celebration will open with Band Drill Exhibitions from the GHQ (general headquarters) Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and Philippine Navy followed by the arrival honors for the President signaling the start of the program proper.

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. is set to deliver his welcome remarks followed by the High-Speed Opener, the Presentation of Command and Honors, Inspection of Troops, Honors to the Nation, and the Awarding Ceremony.

A total of 28 officers, enlisted personnel, civilian employees, and cadet reservists will be awarded for their invaluable accomplishments in the service of the people.

Leading the awardees are Major Gen. Oscar Lactao and Brig. Gen. Alexander Balutan who will receive the Philippine Legion of Honor – Degree of Officer for their exceptionally meritorious and valuable service rendered in a position of major responsibility.

Lactao was the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations in December 2013 to September 2014 and current Commander of the 4th Infantry Division.

On the other hand, Balutan was cited for his numerous accomplishments as the former commander of the 1st Marine Brigade from November 2010 to February 2014 and now Deputy Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command.

The Outstanding Achievement Medal will also be awarded to Major Gen. Victor V. Bayani, Col. Alvin Francis A. Javier, and Col. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista as Project Manager of three In-House Research and Development Projects; Commander and General Manager of AFP Commissary and Exchange Service; and Project Manager of a Career Development Project, respectively.

Receiving the second highest award in the military, the Distinguished Conduct Star, is 1st Lt. Dante E. Espiritu, the Patrol Leader, 1st Scout Ranger Company that encountered over 300 Abu Sayyaf bandits in Talipao, Sulu. Part of his citation reads: “that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy, thereby showcasing extreme stability under fire and keeping up with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.”

Distinguished Service Stars will be given to Brig. Gen. Vic C. Castro, Commander of 702nd Brigade from March 2012 to April 2014; Lt. Col. Erick Q. Escarcha, Group Commander of Tactical Operations Group 11 from April 2013 to April 2014; and Cmdr. Marcos Y. Imperio, Commander of Naval Communications, Electronics, and Information Service Center from September 2007 to March 2014.

Also, Col. Jorge B. Lomboy of the AFP Peace Process Office and Lt.Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera of the Technical Working Group for Cordillera People’s Liberation Army will receive the Gawad sa Kapayapaan award for the successful closure of the peace process with former CPLA rebels in Northern Luzon.

Receiving the Gold Cross Medal, the fourth highest military award, are Capt. Edwin Duclan, Ground Commander of Joint Special Operations Unit 1 in Macalang, Al Barka Basilan; 1Lt Alfie P Ayo, Platoon Leader, 31st Infantry Battalion in Upper Calmayon, Juban, Sorsogon; and SSgAndly R. Mejos, 7th Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights.

The Gawad sa Kaunlaran, an award for meritorious and valuable achievement in the pursuit of socio-economic and non-combat activities, will be awarded to Col. Rodrigo T. Gregorio, U7, Western Mindanao Command; Col. Joseph M. Acosta, Medical Incident Commander in Samar and Leyte; Lt.Col. Reynaldo D. Gabinete, Disaster Response Operation Unit in Bohol; and Major Alano S. Abdulhalim, member of CMO in Western Mindanao.

Meanwhile, the Bronze Cross Medal will also be given to Lt. Cmdr. Bennie B. Demetillo for their successful anti-illegal drugs campaign; Capt. Carlo C David, UH-1H pilot; and Cpl Antonio A Manipis, Jr., for heroism following the devastation of super typhoon "Yolanda".

Col. Glicerio G Peralta, the Commander of 18th Philippine Contingent to Liberia, will also receive his United Nations Service Medal and Ribbon. He was among the 4 peacekeepers who have just finished their quarantine at the AFP Medical Center last week.

CAA Sergio P. Ebañez Jr, member of the 17th CAFGU, A Coy, 72nd Infantry Battalion, will receive the Kagitingan sa Barangay award for the risk of life beyond the call of duty during an encounter with over 30 NPAs in Compostela Valley.

The Outstanding Achievement Award (OAM) will also be given to Technical Sgt. Joselito E. Luna as Enlisted Personnel of the year; Nilo B. Abaigar as Model Civilian Supervisor of the Year; Dr. Shiela R. Liboon as Model Civilian Employee of the Year; Cadet Lt.Col. Jan Rogie G. Macandili as Male ROTC Cadet of the Year; and Cadet Major Joy Nathalie M. Avelino as Female ROTC Cadet of the Year.

Under the theme, “SandatahangLakas: Ika-79 na Taong Naglilingkod ng Tapat Tungo sa Kapayapaan, Kaunlaran, at Kasaganaan,” this year’s celebration is packed with several activities lined up leading to tomorrow’s celebration.

The AFP also hosted the AFP Governance Expo here Wednesday which featured a lecture on “Sustaining the Government’s Good Governance Initiative to Power Peace and Development” by Secretary Jose Rene D. Almendras, Secretary of the Cabinet of the Philippines.

Dubbed as the AFP Governance Exposition 2014, the military will highlight its AFP Transformation Roadmap (AFPTR) that serves as a strategy guide for the AFP to become “a world-class armed forces and source of national pride” by 2028.

“The AFPTR is our commitment to the Filipino as we strive to transform the military into a strong and credible public institution,” Padilla said.

The program started at 8 a.m. and featured the presentation of the AFP Guidebook on Governance and Strategy Management to the Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T. Gazmin.

It was followed by the presentation of several milestones in the implementation of the AFPTR including the Ceremonial Log-in to the AFP e-Governance Website; the turnover of Strategy Maps and Scorecards; and the Commitment Ceremony to the AFPTR.

Plaques of Recognition were also awarded to the AFP units and offices that made significant progress in their reform and transformation programs in line with the AFPTR.

Catapang also led Wednesday's planting of over 300 bamboos at Villa San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal.

This will be part of the National Greening Program (NGP) and Bamboo Planting Activity that will be replicated by other Unified Commands and AFP units across the country.

“The bamboos were chosen because of its efficient carbon capture capability and cheaper reforestation cost. This activity, when done nationwide, will significantly help us in our battle against climate change and its effects,” Catapang said.

In line with the NGP of the national government, the AFP assumed an expanded role in addressing non-traditional threats such as climate change. The launching signifies the AFP’s contribution to reduce and lessen the destructiveness of climate change.

For the launching in Rizal, the Southern Luzon Command through the 2nd Infantry Division established a partnership with the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission, local government units of Rodriguez, and the Philippine Bamboo Foundation.

The program aims to mitigate the effects of climate change in coordination with regional offices of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and local government agencies.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=717137

Missile-armed MPACs in the pipeline for the PN

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17): Missile-armed MPACs in the pipeline for the PN

In a bid to improve its territorial sea interdiction capabilities, the Philippine Navy (PN) announced that it will be acquiring missile-armed MPACs (multi-purpose assault craft) to beef up its patrol force.

This was announced by PN vice commander Rear Admiral Caesar C. Taccad during Tuesday's briefing on modernization.

"It will be armed with stabilized weapon system with fire control complemented with a short to medium range missile system," he added.

The MPACs will be designed for territorial sea interdiction operations with maritime situational awareness and limited credible deterrence in the protection of the country's interest at the West Philippine Sea, Taccad stated.

"And it may also be used for internal security operations and humanitarian assistance disaster response operations," he stressed.

The Department of National Defense (DND) earlier announced that it is allocating Php270 million to acquire three missile-armed MPACs.

The money will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund of 2000.

The contract includes mission essential equipment.

Mission essential equipment includes day/night electronic navigation systems, communication suites, safety-of-life-at-sea, propulsion system and seamanship and ship-handling gears.

The PN currently operates a force of six MPACs.

Three of the PN's MPACs are sourced from Taiwan while the remaining three were ordered from Filipino shipbuilder Propmech Corporation, which is based in Subic Bay, Zambales.

These ships are 16.5 meters long, 4.76 meters wide and has a draft of one meter and a top speed of 45 knots.

Each one costs around Php90 million. It has a range 300 nautical miles. The hull is made of high-quality aluminum and is crewed by one officer and four enlisted personnel. It is capable of carrying 16 fully-equipped troopers or two tons of cargo.

The MPAC is capable of operating in territorial waters up to "Sea State 3" (slight waves) without any system degradation. It is armed with one .50 caliber and two 7.62mm machine guns.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=717100

PN needs diesel electric submarines for maritime deterrence

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17): PN needs diesel electric submarines for maritime deterrence

The country needs modern and up-to-date diesel electric submarines for maritime deterrence.

"We need submarines for deterrence," Rear Admiral Caesar C. Taccad, Navy vice commander, said Wednesday at the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization briefing.

However, Taccad clarified that developing a submarine capability requires a long gestation period in order to develop support facilities and the people and technology of operating such a force.

"A rule of thumb is that 10 years is needed to develop such a force," Taccad stressed.

He added that the PN has already started its submarine development studies some three or two years ago.

"Actually, we forced a submarine office in the Philippine Fleet," the PN vice commander said.

Taccad also said that the PN can afford to acquire and operate its own diesel electric submarines.

"If we can afford two frigates that is worth around Php18 billion, we can procure a submarine," he disclosed.

Military studies revealed that the Philippines needs between three to six diesel electric submarines to fully secure its maritime domain.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=717177

Three S-211 jet pilots selected for F/A-50 training in South Korea

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17): Three S-211 jet pilots selected for F/A-50 training in South Korea

Three veteran SIAI-Marchetti S-211 jet pilots have been selected by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for training in South Korea to fly the South Korean made F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle."

PAF Air Defense Wing director for operations Col. Ernesto Miguel Okol said on Wednesday these pilots will be sent to Seoul by March to begin the three-month long training which will end in May.

The F/A-50 selectees all have the rank of major and have more than 1,000 hours of S-211 jet flight time, Okol said but declined to name them "for security reasons."

During their three-month training, the Filipino pilots will fly the Mach 1.5 capable "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft.

This is considerably faster than the S-211 which has only a top speed of Mach 0.8 (around 460 miles per hour).

The pilots will use the newly-built jets from Korea Aerospace Industries for their flight training, Okol said.

"Suffice it to say, we'll be back to supersonic again," Okol, a former Northrop F-5 "Tiger" jet fighter pilot himself, added.

The PAF's last seven F-5s, out of a total of 35, were retired from the PAF service in 2005 due to airframe cracks, high fuel costs and difficulty in finding spare parts.

The latter jet aircraft has a top speed of Mach 1.6.

The turbofan-powered S-211s were originally designed as trainers and secondary attack planes, but were refitted with avionics equipment and machine guns in recent years to take on air defense.

The Philippines is acquiring 12 FA-50s from KAI for PhP18.9-billion.

Two of these are expected to be delivered by December 2015. Four more may be delivered before President Benigno S. Aquino III's term ends in 2016.

The PhP18.9-billion package includes training, while a separate package worth about PhP5 billion is for the armaments, Okol said.

Aside from the three pilots, a team of two officers and 32 crewmen will also be sent to South Korea to train in maintenance.

Another set of PAF captains and lieutenants will also be sent for training in Korea soon after.

Aside from the jet acquisition and training and armaments procurement, the government has also promised to fund the basing for the aircraft as well as their integration training, Okol said.

The F/A-50s will be based at Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=717076