Monday, March 23, 2015

Bantay Bayanihan in Basilan bats for grassroots communication on peace process

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 24): Bantay Bayanihan in Basilan bats for grassroots communication on peace process

The Bantay Bayanihan in Basilan, composed of civil society groups and some government line agencies, has resolved to pursue grassroots communication on the ongoing peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

With the derailed congressional deliberation on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) due to the Mamasapano incident, the members have expressed concern over the uncertainties of events and the future of the BBL and its impact on the locality.

While the national debate centered on the alleged lies spread by some opposing sectors of the BBL, the local Bantay Bayanihan groups were wary about the decommissioning process and its implementation, over and above the various questions that continue to linger in the minds of BasileƱos and IsabelaƱos on the contents of the BBL.

During its March 20, 2015 meeting here, Basilan Advocates for Peace, Environment and Sustainable Development (BAPESDA) Executive Director Asrif Tindick shared updates on the “Bangsamoro Peace Process.”

He echoed the statement of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) that “the proposed BBL is one of the many target milestones in the peace process.

It is a critical milestone, but there are also corresponding interventions to ensure that the process is comprehensive, relevant, and inclusive (hence, the socio-economic interventions, normalization, transitional justice, and confidence building measures).

In short, the BBL is not the “magic pill” that will deliver ‘peace,’ but is one of the deliberate and synchronized interventions of the process.”

He stressed that the basic goal of peace process is, first, to forge a political settlement with the armed group so that communities can pursue their desired quality of life in a condition of peace and second is to ensure that the conflict affected areas benefit from the peace dividends of the peace table.

Margarita Auxtero of the Child Fund Philippines in Basilan also shared OPAPP’s updates on the development on normalization, the process through which the communities affected by the decades-long armed conflict in Mindanao can return to a peaceful life and pursue sustainable livelihoods free from fear of violence and crime.“

But the normalization process is the most challenging of all in the peace process,” said Miriam Suacito of the Nagdilaab Foundation (NFI) who stressed the importance of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation component which hopes to appropriate mechanisms to address the legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, correct historical injustices, and address human rights violations.

At the end of the one-day conference, the group resolved to conduct grassroots information dissemination activities on normalization, especially on the issue of decommissioning. However, no definite dates yet for the said awareness drive.

The participants also listed some possible questions and topics in the BBL and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that the community may have asked or had been asking.Bantay Bayanihan is a civil society-led group for third party monitoring of the implementation of the AFP Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP).

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1421427121859/bantay-bayanihan-in-basilan-bats-for-grassroots-communication-on-peace-process

Brand new plane for PH Air Force arrives in Clark

From Rappler (Mar 23): Brand new plane for PH Air Force arrives in Clark

The back-to-back natural and man-made disasters of 2013 have highlighted the need for a better lift capability for the Air Force, which maintains 3 operational C-130s

BRAND NEW: The first of 3 brand new C295 cargo planes acquired by the Philippine Air Force land on Clark Air Base. PAF photo

BRAND NEW: The first of 3 brand new C295 cargo planes acquired by the Philippine Air Force land on Clark Air Base. PAF photo

Finally, a brand new transport plane for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

The first of 3 brand new C-295 medium lift fixed-wing aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) landed at Clark Air Base on Sunday, March 22. It is undergoing inspection and tests before it is formally accepted.
 
Capable of short field landing and takeoff, the C-295 can transport within the country up to 71 passengers, 50 paratroops, 24 stretchers with 5 to 7 attendants, or up to about 20,000 lbs of cargoes.
 
It looks like the F-27 Fokker plane in the current inventory of the PAF, but it has a rear ramp door similar to the C-130 cargo planes – a feature specifically required by the military for easier access and loading or unloading of passengers and cargoes.
 
The back-to-back natural and man-made disasters of 2013 highlighted the need for a better lift capability for the Air Force, which maintains 3 operational C-130s. In the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan), the Philippines had to rely on foreign militaries to tranport relief goods and evacuate typhoon victims.
 
Spanish firm EADS/CASA-Airbus Military won the P5.3-billion aircraft contract. Delivery of the two other C-295 planes is expected in 2016.
 

PAKIUSAP NG MGA BAKWIT | 'Pull out military from our communities'

From InterAksyon (Mar 23): PAKIUSAP NG MGA BAKWIT | 'Pull out military from our communities'



Residents hold a rally asking that the fighting between government forces and the BIFF stop, 23 March 2015. PHOTO FROM SUARA BANGSAMORO

Thousands of internally displaced people gathered this morning in Maguindanao to call for the pull out of the military in its offensive actions against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Authorities have said that more than 100,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to the fighting.

IDPs are colloquially called bakwit, from the word evacuation.

According to non-government organization Suara Bangsamoro, nine houses and two mosques were razed in Barangay Pamalian, Shariff Aguak in the early morning of March 18 after the Marines and the Army hit them with cannons and mortars.

Jerome Aba, Suara Bangsamoro spokesman, said that several IDPs complained that the houses they left due to the fighting have been ransacked. He said some civilians were also injured in the ongoing battle.

Ceasefire call

For the third time since the government implemented a military offensive against the BIFF, affected residents and other civil society organizations marched from Maguindanao to the Human Rights Office of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in Cotabato City to call for a stop in the firefighting.

They are hoping that their request would be heeded.

The military, on the other hand, is prepared to declare a ceasefire starting tomorrow, Tuesday, until Thursday.

The ceasefire is to allow the graduation of students in the area, said Army Capt. Joanne Petinglay, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division.

Students and teachers in Maguindanao are also scheduled to hold a Peace Caravan in the affected towns.

The Peace Caravan is to express their wish and hope for long-term peace, said Maguindanao Divison Supt Bai Meriam Kawit.



No to all-out war" is among the calls of residents of Maguindanao affected by the fighting. PHOTO FROM SUARA BANGSAMORO

More aid need for displaced - UNHCR

In Geneva, the Office for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed concern for 120,000 people who have been displaced since late January, particularly for the safety of women and children who could be exposed to exploitation and abuse.

“UNHCR [Office for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees] appeals to all parties of the conflict to ensure the safety of civilians while the law and order operation is underway,” the agency’s spokesperson, Babar Baloch, told reporters at a press briefing in Geneva.

The agency and its partners estimate that 13 municipalities in the areas of Maguindanao and North Cotabato in central Mindanao have been affected in eight weeks of clashes between the military and police on one side, and the non-state armed group, BIFF, on the other.

An estimated 120,000 displaced people are now sheltering in schools, public buildings, and madaris, it said, adding that the estimate does not include people hosted by relatives and friends, and the numbers are expected to grow as the fighting extends to the local communities that are already hosting many of the displaced, Baloch said.

UNHCR cannot access many of the affected areas and relies on information provided by local authorities, civil society organizations, and partners, he said.

Humanitarian agencies, including UNHCR, in Mindanao are working closely with the local authorities to monitor the conditions of displaced people inside and outside the shelters.

“We have provided some blankets, jerry cans, sleeping mats, mosquito nets and plastic sheets, but more aid is needed urgently,” Baloch said.

“UNHCR is particularly concerned about the safety of civilians, including women and children who are caught up in the conflict areas,” he said. “It is unclear how long or widely the ongoing law and order operation will extend and this is hindering the safe and dignified return of the displaced people.”

He went on to say that “women and children could potentially be exposed to exploitation and abuse, given their lack of income and community protection. The limited provision of food, medicine, water and temporary shelter could exacerbate these vulnerabilities.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/107474/pakiusap-ng-mga-bakwit--pull-out-military-from-our-communities

): Even if it wins arbitration case, PH won't still be able to expel China from West PH Sea - expert

From InterAksyon (Mar 23): Even if it wins arbitration case, PH won't still be able to expel China from West PH Sea - expert



South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) map

A Filipino maritime affairs expert believes that even if the Philippines wins its case before the UN arbitral tribunal, it won't still be able to expel China from territories that are said to be within the West Philippine Sea.

According to Professor Jay Batongbacal, director of the University of the Philippines Institute of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, the aribitration court won't be able to enforce its ruling and order China to remove all the structures it had built on the disputed territories because what the tribunal has is just moral suasion.

"(U)ltimately, wala namang enforcement power 'yong arbitral tribunal at moral suasion lang talaga 'yong kailang kapangyarihan. Hindi n'ya directly mauutusan ang China na tanggalin ang mga istruktura na 'yan," said Batongbacal.

Recently, the Philippine government handed over a “supplemental submission” consisting of “12 volumes totaling over 3,000 pages” as part of the case it filed before the arbitral tribunal.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said the submission was  in response to the 26 questions from the tribunal on December 16 last year “requesting additional argument and information” on “issues concerning both the tribunal’s jurisdiction and the merits of the Philippines’ claims, including the Philippines’ principled claim challenging the lawfulness of China’s so-called ‘nine-dash line’.”

The DFA said the Philippines “is confident that its answers to the tribunal’s questions leave no doubt that the Tribunal has jurisdiction over the case and that the Philippines claims, including in particular its claims concerning the nine-dash line, are well-founded in fact and law.”

However, according to Batongbacal, the tribunal won't be able to impose its ruling on China because the latter already said that it would not participate in or accept the results of the arbitration.

"Wala naman talagang international arbitration court na nag-uutos sa ibang bansa na wala namang consent 'yong bansa na 'yon. Kaya nga arbitration, kailangan parehong partido na nagsumite sa jusrisdiction ng arbitration," said Batongbacal.

[Video report]

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/107511/even-if-it-wins-arbitration-case-ph-wont-still-be-able-to-expel-china-from-west-ph-sea---expert

Military to facilitate safe graduation ceremonies in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Military to facilitate safe graduation ceremonies in Maguindanao

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has directed 6th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan to facilitate safe graduation ceremonies in conflict-affected areas in Maguindanao, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said on Monday.

The Department of Education (DepEd) earlier proposed 15 areas where 65 schools would be clustered for the joint graduation ceremonies.

Last March 19, Gov. Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu of Maguindanao convened the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting in Awang, Maguindanao to conduct initial coordination regarding the proposed graduation ceremonies in selected areas.

Catapang said the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) will help in identifying safe areas where these graduation events would be held in close coordination with the local government units (LGUs).

On Monday, the Municipal Peace and Order Council of the different LGUs in the affected areas held consultation meetings to discuss thoroughly different issues regarding the proposed graduation ceremony.

On March 24, the provincial government of Maguindanao is planning to convene the PPOC in Buluan town to receive feedbacks from the local chief executives of the affected municipalities.

Catapang said the law enforcement operations would be continuously conducted in areas that are believed to be the new hideouts of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

These areas are in the marshlands and also in the mountainous terrain away from the proposed sites for the graduation ceremony.

The AFP and the PNP will secure the sites where the graduation ceremonies will be held.

DepEd-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has proposed that the graduation ceremonies be held from March 25 to 27.

"We will also work closely with the local government and the PNP in identifying areas where residents can safely return," Catapang said.

He added that the AFP will continuously deploy forces in the former BIFF enclaves to deny the terrorists like Basit Usman and Amin Baco entry to their former safe havens.

The AFP will also facilitate the implementation of the PhP67-million worth of different projects which were approved by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

The inauguration ceremony for the bridge project in Mamasapano town will be held on March 25.

Catapang said Army engineers will help implement various infrastructure projects to support the rehabilitation and recovery of the conflict-affected areas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=747151

US gov't pours in P63-M post-Yolanda education support

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): US gov't pours in P63-M post-Yolanda education support

The United States Government through its Agency for International Development (USAID) recently provided an additional P63-million aid to include school equipment for post-disaster education needs in 19 municipalities in Iloilo, Capiz and Bohol.

A statement from the US Embassy in Manila said that USAID Mission Director Gloria D. Steele witnessed the signing of an agreement last March 9 between the municipal mayors, school principals and Synergeia Foundation, USAID’s implementing partner for the Education Governance Effectiveness (EdGE) Project, which will help elementary public schools in the three target provinces get back on track towards improving learning outcomes.

Over 450 schools, 3,800 teachers and 35,000 early grade students will directly benefit from the assistance.

“Hugpong sa Pagbangon,” Ilonggo vernacular for “rising up together,” is the post-disaster component of EdGE that will provide community incentive grants, disaster preparedness workshops, and teaching and learning materials.

In Iloilo, Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. expressed his appreciation for the sincerity and gesture of commitment of the American government to the Filipino people in enhancing and strengthening quality of public education.

Hardest hit by Typhoon Yolanda on November 8, 2013 were the northern coastal towns of Iloilo and towns along the rivers.

A ceremonial turnover of audiovisual equipment such as laptops, printers, televisions and projectors was held at the Dumangas Municipal Gymnasium witnessed by local officials headed by Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura.

EdGE seeks to improve education governance at the local level through strengthened government effectiveness, increased transparency and accountability, and increased participation of stakeholders in education policy formulation and implementation.

Overall, the U.S. Government’s support is estimated at approximately P6.3 billion to help the people of the Philippines respond to, and recover from, the devastating effects of Typhoon Yolanda.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=747086

Leyte gov’t reaffirms support to Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Leyte gov’t reaffirms support to Army

The provincial government of Leyte through the provincial peace and order council (PPOC) reiterated their commitment of support to the Philippine Army based in the province.

Vice governor Carlo P. Loreto said the provincial government has the capacity to provide intelligence information to help the army’s campaign to wipe out insurgency.

“The local government has resources to support the army’s bayanihan (heroism) projects in the hope of bringing the government closer to the people,” Loreto added.

Col. Dinoh Dolina, Army’s 802nd brigade commander based in Ormoc City, said the mindset of the villagers that government programs do not reach their villages is one of the many reasons that they opted to join the rebel group. Another factor is the poor access to upland villages.

The provincial government has tapped the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the provincial agricultural office to complement programs such as providing livelihood to rebel returnees.

The Philippine Army is confident that more towns will be declared as insurgency free this year.

Loreto also emphasized that the provincial government of Leyte is in full support of the Army to the continuing process of achieving the peace and order in the province.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=746910

Farmer foils bombing attempt by NPAs in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Farmer foils bombing attempt by NPAs in Sultan Kudarat

An alert farmer prevented what could be bloody Sunday morning for government forces when he informed the police and military personnel of his discovery here - an improvised explosive device (IED).

Police bomb experts safely defused an improvised bomb planted by suspected New Peoples Army in Barangay Poblacion.

Capt. Danny Boy Tapang, 39th Infantry Battalion spokesperson, said the IED was found by a farmer at 8:45 a.m. some 300 meters away from a national road in Barangay Poblacion.

He immediately alerted the police and Army in the area.

The farmer who he did not identify told military personnel that he first saw an electrical wire about 300 meters long. At its end as a blue pipe and blasting cap.

Responding police and military bomb experts safely defused the IED.

Tapang blamed the communist New People's Army (NPA) operating in Columbio as the ones who planted the IED intended for government forces conducting peace and development programs in the hinterlands of Columbio.

He also said the NPAs, under Front 72, wanted to send the message it is still active as it prepares for its foundation day on March 26.

He also lauded the farmer who was alert and concern for the safety of government forces and even civilians who might be accidentally hit by the banned land mines.

"He should be lauded, he should be emulated because security is everybody's business," Tapang said in a radio interview.

Tapang said the 39th IB and other security units in North Cotabato have been on heightened alert as the NPAs are expected to launch attacks against government forces, multi-national companies and even local officials to celebrate the foundation of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA.

Columbio is a town in the borders of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato where the NPAs have a sizable force.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=746918

NPA team leader yields in Agusan del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): NPA team leader yields in Agusan del Sur

Just a few more days before the celebration of the New People's Army (NPA) 46th anniversary on March 29, one of its team leaders surrendered to the police at a border municipality of a southern province in the region over the weekend.

Reports from Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office reaching the police regional headquarters here on Sunday said that a certain Nanjie G. Salinsan, alias "Renren," 22, a resident of Purok 5, Sitio Cogonon, Brgy. Salvacion, Trento in Agusan del Sur gave himself up to Police Insp. Renante V. Abendano, deputy chief of Trento Municipal Police Station at about 9:15 a.m. Saturday.

Salinsan went to the police station accompanied by Hon. Victoria L. Plaza, Sanguniang Bayan member of Trento municipality and Hon. Heracleo L. Luces, Barangay Captain of Brgy. Salvacion of the said town. The surrenderee and the local government officials assisting him were escorted by personnel from the Agusan del Sur Provincial Public Safety Company, led by PSupt. Romeo A. Villalobos Jr. and a personnel from the 133rd Regional Public Safety Company PO1 Marvic P. Yungao.

Salinsan who was said to be a team leader of Baking Segoda Sentro de Gravidad, Guirrella Front 20 of the Southern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee (SMRC) accordingly surrendered as he wanted to give up armed struggle and to live peacefully with his family and loved ones.

The surrenderer was released from the custody of Trento Municipal Police Station and was turned over to Hon. Heracleo L. Luces, Jr.; Brgy. Capt. of Brgy. Salvacion of the said town.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=746927

Troops arrest NPA rebel in Zambo Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Troops arrest NPA rebel in Zambo Sur

Joint police and military operatives arrested on Sunday a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported Monday.

Inspector Dahlan Samuddin, Police Regional Office (PRO-9) information officer, identified the arrested NPA rebel as Johnny Anter, alias Bulldog.

Samuddin said Anter was arrested at around 11 a.m. Sunday while the troops were on security patrol in Barangay Barangay Dalapan, San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur.

He said the arresting team confiscated from Anter’s possession a caliber .38 revolver with three live ammunition and a hand grenade.

Anter was detained at Camp Abelon in Pagadian City while appropriate case is being prepared for filing against him, he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=746944

NPA rebels execute village volunteer law enforcer

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): NPA rebels execute village volunteer law enforcer

A barangay tanod (village volunteer security man and law enforcer) was executed by New People's Army (NPA) rebels, who had suspected him of being a military informer, in front of his family inside his residence at Barangay Jangad, Balud, Masbate, on Sunday afternoon.

A police report reaching Chief Supt. Victor P. Deona, Bicol regional police director, identified the victim as Nelson Alegre, 45, who was resting at about 1 p.m. with his family when young-looking men armed with .45-caliber pistol barged in and shot him at the full view of his family.

The suspects then casually walked away.

The report said the NPA had long suspected Alegre of being a military and police informer in their area, which the victim's relatives vehemently denied, saying he was just a simple farmer and village law enforcer.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=746960

Offensive vs BIFF suspended

From the Sun Star (Mar 23): Offensive vs BIFF suspended



MANILA. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. earlier ordered the Western Mindanao Command to conduct an all-out offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. (AP file photo)

Military operations against the separatist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao have been suspended to give way to peaceful graduation rites for students.

The suspension of hostilities is from Monday, March 23, until March 29, said Myrna Jo Henry, media officer of the Autonomous Region of the Muslim Mindanao Humanitarian Emergency Action and Response Team (Armm-Heart).

Henry said soldiers and policemen were asked to secure the areas where the graduation ceremonies would be held starting this week.

She said most of the graduating students are staying in the evacuation centers where their families were transferred after the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) launched a campaign last month to crush the rebel group.

The all-out military offensive has already displaced 25,000 families or more than 120,000 people in the province, according to Armm-Heart.

The AFP is still pursuing small bands of BIFF members who have splintered into small groups to evade government soldiers.

"Law enforcement operations would be continuously conducted in areas that are believed to be the new hideouts of the BIFF. These areas are in the marshlands and also in the mountainous area away from the proposed sites for the graduation ceremony," said AFP chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said.

The AFP will also continuously deploy forces in the former BIFF enclaves to deny terrorists like Abdul Basit Usman and Amin Baco entry of their former safe havens.
As of Sunday, the AFP has accounted 139 killed, 53 wounded and 12 arrested among the BIFF members.

Prior to the launching of the all-out military offensive, the BIFF has reached about 300 active members out of those who left the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) about five years ago.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2015/03/23/offensive-vs-biff-suspended-398969

Pemberton initial trial for murder of Filipino transgender starts

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Pemberton initial trial for murder of Filipino transgender starts

The initial trial for the criminal case against US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton, charged of murder for the death of Filipino transgender Jennifer Laude last year in this city, started on Monday minus the private counsel and the family of the victim.

Lawyer Harry Roque, counsel for the Laude family, was reportedly in Manila to protest before the Department of Justice (DOJ) the decision of the Olongapo City Prosecutor’s Office disallowing them to join the prosecutor’s team and attend the trial.

Olongapo City Prosecutor Emily Fe Delos Santos said that lawyer Roque’s team could not join the city prosecutor’s team because the trial is for the criminal aspect of the case.

“We are preparing ourselves, whether there is a plea bargaining or not. We did not let them (lawyer Roque’s team) to join us because whatever they hear during the case conference, they may divulge our strategy,” Delos Santos said.

She, however, clarified that this is not a matter of trust, but rather a matter of controlling and supervising the proceeding involved where they are tasked to win the case for the people of the Philippines, and not just for the Laude family, adding they have a strong case and evidence to win the case.

The prosecutor said that Roque can only represent the Laude family as private prosecutor to determine the damages involved and how much the defense should pay Laude’s family for the damages.

“Atty. Roque cannot accept the fact what is embodied in the rules (of court),” Delos Santos said.

She said that they respect lawyer Roque’s decision to seek the intervention of the DOJ for their desire to "penetrate" the public prosecutor’s team.

“It is his (Roque) right to seek help from Secretary De Lima. And should the secretary tell us to give the case to another panel, we will abide. We are holding very tight in this case," she said.

Delos Santos also clarified that the family of victim-Laude can only stand witness for the civil aspect of the case since they were not there at the scene when and where the crime was committed.

Pemberton entered the Hall of Justice of Olongapo City at around 12:15 p.m. for his 1 p.m. trial.

The defense is expected to present one witness as it was agreed that both the defense and prosecution can only present one witness per trial day.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=747063

Philippines expect early delivery of transport planes

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Philippines expect early delivery of transport planes

With the arrival of the first Airbus Military C-295 medium transport at Clark Air Base, Pampanga Sunday, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced that it is very likely that the two remaining planes will be delivered earlier than expected.

"The two other C-295 is expected in 2016 but earlier delivery is a possibility," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said.

The March 22 delivery of the first C-295 is five months early

It arrived in Clark Air Base at 5:31 p.m.

Canaya said the aircraft departed from Seville, Spain last March 16 where it was assembled.

It was flown into the country by civilian pilots and crew of Airbus Military.

Airbus won the Department of National Defense medium lift aircraft program by tendering a bid for Php5.29-billion for three aircraft last year.

This is considerable lower than the Php5.3-billion stipulated in the contract.

"The arrival of the aircraft is still on the delivery phase. The aircraft will still undergo acceptance process before it will be turned over to the PAF. For the following 3-5 days, the aircraft will be inspected and test flown in the presence of PAF trained pilots and the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee," the PAF spokesperson added.

Training for the first batch composed of four PAF pilots and 24 maintenance crew was done in Seville, Spain and was completed last March 10.

"Succeeding training for pilots will continue this year in anticipation of the delivery of two more C-295s," Canaya stressed.

While the C-295 is categorized as medium lift aircraft equivalent to the Fokker F-27 aircraft being maintained by the 220th Airlift Wing, the C-295s have rear ramp door similar to that of the C-130s for easier access and loading/unloading of passengers and cargoes.

"Thus, it can augment in the type missions performed by the C-130s for lesser payload requirements," the PAF spokesperson stressed.

He added that the C-295s can carry as much as 71 passengers, 50 paratroops, 24 stretchers with five to seven attendants or up to about 20,000 lbs of cargoes.

It is capable of short field landing and takeoff.

The additional C-295s will enhance the overall capability of the PAF in providing airlift requirements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=746896

MILF: Editorial -- MILF blameless on Mamasapano ‘unfortunate incident’

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Mar 22): Editorial -- MILF blameless on Mamasapano ‘unfortunate incident’

The MILF stands pat on its position that it is guiltless in as far as the tragic incident in Mamasapano in Maguindanao on January 25 where 44 PNP-Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, 17 MILF forces, and 5 civilians were killed is concerned. It strongly maintains that the MILF is the aggrieved party here. Here are the supporting facts:
  
1.      The incident is ceasefire-related. The Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of the GRP-MILF Tripoli Agreement on Peace signed on August 7, 2001 clearly stipulated that police and military  actions  and administrative/logistics activities shall continue to be undertaken by the GRP throughout Mindanao and the entire country. In pursuit thereof, confrontational situations between the GRP and MILF forces shall be avoided by prior coordination with the latter, meaning the MILF;

2.      The Terms of Reference of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), which is mandated by the GPH and MILF to isolate and interdict kidnap-for-ransom groups and other criminal gangs including so-called lost commands operating in Mindanao, obliged both the GPH and MILF to coordinate with each other, which includes even operations against high value targets;

3.      During the planning for the police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, Chief Supt. Getulio NapeƱas, head of the PNP-Special Action Force (SAF) treated the MILF as “enemy forces”.  He admitted that this was the reason he did not coordinate with the MILF. How about the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)? Certainly, he did not consider them as enemy but he did not trust them either. Clearly, it is shown here that he willfully and deliberately violated the ceasefire agreement and the TOR of the AHJAG which requires the GPH to punish him on the basis of these obligations.

On the part of the MILF, when we signed agreements with the GPH, we signed them with honor and commitment to abide by them. We believe the administration of President Benigno Aquino III is also doing the same. This is the reason that peace negotiators of the GPH and MILF virtually speak with the same line and tone, because, after signing the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is already in Congress for deliberation, we are already partners in pushing for all these agenda. We cannot understand why the like of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who lagged poorly in surveys for presidentiables, has the gut to accuse these honorable defenders of the FAB, CAB, BBL and the peace process in general, like Prof. Miriam Ferrer-Coronel and Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, as spokespersons of the MILF;

4.      On the basis of the principle of cause and effect, the first offense committed by NapeƱas was by completely setting aside the ceasefire agreement and TOR of AHJAG which oblige the parties to coordinate with each other on operations like the one in Mamasapano, and the second offense is his treatment of the MILF as enemy. For these reasons, the subsequent actions by both sides, except if they are in the nature of “war crimes”, are inconsequential. The blame must be put entirely on the initiator, which is the PNP-SAF. Moreover, if, however, the one who shot the wounded SAF commando as shown in the video is guilty of a war crime, why did the lone survivor, Police Officer 2 Christopher Lalan, not also charge of war crime by killing four MILF men sleeping inside a mosque?

5.      In strictly military parlance, whoever died in an encounter is a “casualty” and whatever is captured, except personal belongings, is a “war booty”.  The use of the terms “murder” and “robbery” cannot be appropriately used here. Why complain if one is licked in the battlefield? This brings us further to the misappropriation of another adjective as describing the unfortunate incident as a “massacre”. This should not be used at all, because this tarnishes the image of the PNP-SAF, which is trained not only locally but the Americans honed their skills for long.

This is the reason that members of the Senate who were once military officers in the AFP like Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and Senator Gregorio Honasan appeared not moved by what happened in Mamasapano. They know that death is part of the risk in entering the service. (Honasan was wounded in action in Tran, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat in 1973); and

6.    The GPH, especially the PNP and AFP, know very well the depth and extent of the cooperation of the MILF through the mechanisms of the AHJAG and ceasefire. As a matter of fact, there were many success stories of this joint undertaking and partnership even including high value targets.  But it seemed the debacle in Mamasapano had one particular ingredient that was not discussed openly or thoroughly; i.e., the huge amount of dollars as reward money for the capture, dead or alive, of Marwan and Basset Usman.  In most instances, this lure of what glitters keeps others from the loop.

            In all probability, by the time this editorial comes out, the result of the investigation on the Mamasapano incident conducted by the MILF’s Special Investigation Commission (SIC) would have come out already. The good in this is that those who are guided by their conscience would see the other side of the story of Mamasapano.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/795-milf-blameless-on-mamasapano-unfortunate-incident

MILF: BDA SouthMin gave program updates to MILF Political Committees in four provinces

Posted to the MILF Website (Mar 23): BDA SouthMin gave program updates to MILF Political Committees in four provinces

BDA SouthMin gave program updates to MILF Political Committees in four provinces

The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA)-Southern Mindanao Regional Management Office gave updates to the MILF provincial and local political committees in the four provinces of Southern Mindanao in order to provide the stakeholders with the latest accomplishments of BDA in terms of development interventions in its area of operation.

The activity, entitled Convergence Updates to MILF Political Committees and Stakeholders on the Status of BDA Programs, was held at the Community Learning Center in Barangay Koronadal Proper in Polomolok, South Cotabato last March 18, 2015.

Headed by Regional Manager Mohalikin d. Piang, the staff of BDA shared the agency’s services and experience in projects implementation to the audience which are comprised of chairpersons and officers from the Political Committee of Koronadal, Ala, Sugoda Buayan and Biwang Provinces. Representatives from other agencies like the Social Welfare Committee under the MILF political set-up were also present.

For the Mindanao Trust Fund Reconstruction and Development Program, the Regional Institutional Development Officer Alimuddin Hadjinor gave the updates.

There are nine barangays of Sarangani province which benefit from the MTFRDP. Most of the projects are post-harvest facilities, water system and fishing.

Moctar Sampulna, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer and Lydia Salisipan, Regional Coordinator for Tahderriyah Program also shared progress in their program implementation. The program primarily targets to capacitate kindergarten teachers in Madaris and provide learning materials to upgrade the standard of pre-school education.

For Sajahatra Bangsamoro program which delivers health, education and livelihood projects Kathy Andatuan-Ulab, Livelihood Focal Person, provided the updates.

Sajahatra is a joint undertaking between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation that provide target Bangsamoro communities with livelihood skills, livelihood opportunities, free PhilHealth services, and educational assistance to Muslim youth.

Rehoney Musa Utam, Core Trainor of the BDA-UNICEF Child Protection Program related the UNICEF-funded WaSH and Child Protection Programs. Utam related WaSh is being implemented in 84 sites.

Arvin Nait, Community Enterprise Development Officer, disclosed the latest undertakings of the Programme for Local Economic Development through Enhanced Governance and Grassroots Empowerment (PLEDGE).

PLEDGE aims to contribute to confidence and peace building efforts through local economic development and sustainable livelihood creation in conflict affected areas in Mindanao.The International Labor Organization is the trust fund recipient of the PLEDGE.

Piang underscored the significance of community support for the successful implementation of whatever programs or projects BDA brings to the beneficiaries.

The audience appreciated the initiative of BDA SouthMin and look forward that more programs will be delivered by the agency to benefit more communities.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/798-bda-southmin-gave-program-updates-to-milf-political-committees-in-four-provinces

MILF: BTC, BDA facilitate Quick Impact Projects groundbreaking in Southern Mindanao

Posted to the MILF Website (Mar 23): BTC, BDA facilitate Quick Impact Projects groundbreaking in Southern Mindanao

BTC, BDA facilitate Quick Impact Projects groundbreaking in Southern Mindanao

The Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA)-Southern Mindanao Regional Management Office facilitated the groundbreaking ceremony of two Quick Impact Projects (QIP) in Brgy Burias in Glan, Sarangani and Brgy Lupuken in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on March 13 and 14, 2015 respectively.

The beneficiary communities have identified Multi-Purpose Halls as their proposed projects which will serve as venue for trainings, assemblies, meetings and other important gatherings which can contribute to the development of the community. The proposed projects were identified during community consultations.

BDA SouthMin Regional Manager urged the beneficiaries to share their time and efforts for the realization of the project geared towards the holistic development of their communities. Representatives from BTC and JICA were present in the ceremony.

QIP, a partnership between the BTC and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), intend to benefit target Bangsamoro Communities following the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro on March 27, 2014.

Twenty sites are identified for the QIP implementation all over Mindanao. The BDA, the development arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) takes charge in the social preparation of the communities.

QIP benefits not only Bangsamoro people but the Lumads and Christian Settlers as well. The Provincial Government of Sarangani expressed willingness to support QIP in the province.

On March 7, 2015, a groundbreaking ceremony for QIP in Brgy Kibleg, Upi, Maguindanao was held which was graced by JICA Vice President Mr. Toshiyuki Kuroyanagi, BTC Chairman Mohagher Iqbal and BDA Executive Director Dr. Mohamad S. Yacob.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/797-btc-bda-facilitate-quick-impact-projects-groundbreaking-in-southern-mindanao

UNHCR expresses concern for 120 000 refugees displaced by renewed fighting in central Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): UNHCR expresses concern for 120 000 refugees displaced by renewed fighting in central Mindanao

The office of the Geneva-based United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee (UNHCR) expressed its concern on Monday for the 120,000 people displaced since fighting broke out anew last January between government forces and Muslim rebels in central Mindanao.

In an e-mail to this reporter, UNHCR pointed to the safety of the “women and children who could be exposed to exploitation and abuse” in the raging conflict in the area.

“UNHCR appeals to all parties of the conflict to ensure the safety of civilians while the law and order operation is underway,” said the agency’s spokesperson, Babar Baloch.

Babar said the UNHCR and its partners estimate that 13 municipalities in the areas of Maguindanao and North Cotabato in central Mindanao have been affected in eight weeks of clashes between government troops and the breakaway armed group, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Renewed clashes broke out following the killing of 44 police commandos of the Special Action Force (SAF) out to arrest international terrorist Zulkifli Abdul bin Hir, alias Marwan, in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last Jan. 25.

The 44 SAF troopers were killed during an 11-hour gun battle with combined forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and BIFF despite a ceasefire signed by the government and MILF because the MILF said the SAF did not coordinate with them that they would enter an MILF “territory” prior to the fighting.

The Mamapasano incident has been tagged by government forces as a massacre because many of the SAF troopers were shot several times at close range despite being killed.

Almost two months after the massacre, the Mamapasano bloodbath has dominated the Philippine media to date.

The UNHCR said that the 120,000 displaced people are now sheltering in schools, public buildings and madrasas (institutions for the study of Islamic theology and religious law).

The estimate does not include people hosted by relatives and friends, and the numbers are expected to grow as the fighting extends to the local communities that are already hosting many of the displaced, Baloch said.

UNHCR cannot access many of the affected areas and relies on information provided by local authorities, civil society organizations and partners, he added.

Humanitarian agencies, including UNHCR, in Mindanao are working closely with the local authorities to monitor the conditions of displaced people inside and outside the shelters.

“We have provided some blankets, jerry cans, sleeping mats, mosquito nets and plastic sheets, but more aid is needed urgently,” Baloch said.

“UNHCR is particularly concerned about the safety of civilians, including women and children who are caught up in the conflict areas,” he said.

“It is unclear how long or widely the ongoing law and order operation will extend and this is hindering the safe and dignified return of the displaced people," Baloch added.

He also said that “women and children could potentially be exposed to exploitation and abuse, given their lack of income and community protection. The limited provision of food, medicine, water and temporary shelter could exacerbate these vulnerabilities.”

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=746946

Laude kin deny accepting P21-M deal

From the Philippine Star (Mar 23): Laude kin deny accepting P21-M deal



Marilou Laude, the sister of slain Filipino transgender Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude, shows to the media the photo she took inside the courtroom of US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton as he appears in court on Friday, Dec.19, 2014 in Olongapo City, Zambales. AP/Bullit Marquez

The family of slay victim Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude on Monday denied having accepted a settlement offer and asked Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to assign a new public prosecutor for the murder case against an American Marine.

In a letter filed at the Department of Justice, the victim's sister, Malou, said Olongapo City chief prosecutor Emilie de los Santos has not been cooperating with with their private counsels led by lawyer Harry Roque.

"Hindi namin maintindihan kung bakit ayaw pumayag ng kasalukuyang public prosecutor na makipagtulungan ang aming abogado sa pagtatanggol sa aming karapatan para matiyak ang hustisya sa pakamatay ni Jennifer," Malou said in the letter.

Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton has been charged with murder before the local court for the killing of Laude in a hotel room in October 2014.

Malou said that the family's counsels were left out by De los Santos in a plea bargaining to lower Pemberton's offense from murder to homicide.

The family also denied that they accepted the reported P21-million plea bargain with Pemberton's camp, saying it could have been De los Santos pushing for it.

"Hindi namin maintindihan ang public prosecutor na sa usapin ng plea bargaining ay kailangang mag-plead sa lower offense," Malou said in the letter.

"Lalong hindi namin maintindihan na kahit sa case conference na pinatawag ng public prosecutor ay hindi man lamang papayagan ang aming abogado na i-represent kami," she added.

The family also invoked their constitutional right to choose their counsel.

"Wala na po bang ibang prosecutor ang Department of Justice na pwedeng tumulong sa amin? Na pwedeng makipag-tulungan sa aming abogado? O kayang tumanggap ng tulong at kooperasyon mula sa aming abogado?" Malou said.

RELATED: Pemberton trial proper starts Monday

The trial on the murder case commenced Monday where a hotel bellboy, Elias Gallamos, and Laude's friend, a certain "Barbie," took the witness stand.

The incident prompted questions over a friction in US-Philippines relations recently affirmed by the forging of a defense agreement allowing increased American forces' presence in the country.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/03/23/1436708/laude-kin-deny-accepting-p21-m-deal

MILF camp now abandoned, but intact

From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (Mar 22): MILF camp now abandoned, but intact

The newly discovered training camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) located in the hinterlands of Iligan City has been abandoned but its facilities are still intact, an Army commander said yesterday.

“It’s now abandoned. There’s no occupant at the said place for now,” said Col. Gilbert Gapay, commander of the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Brigade based in Iligan City.

Gapay’s unit responded to the complaints of tribesmen in the area regarding the presence of armed men roaming around their communities.

Gapay endorsed the complaint to the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) after learning that the MILF had set up a training camp in the area.

He said the training facility was not among several MILF camps recognized under the peace agreement.

Gapay said he could only assume that the facility, being maintained as reported by the MILF’s 103rd Base Command under Commander Abdul Sango Amoran, is currently unoccupied .

Gapay reiterated that reporting the existence and the immediate dismantling of the MILF training camp is in accordance with the existing peace process and ceasefire agreement between the government and the MILF.

While the government has recognized areas and camps controlled by the MILF, the rebel group has agreed not to put up additional camps in other areas as part of the ongoing peace efforts to deescalate the conflict in Mindanao.

“I have coordinated this matter with Brig. Gen. Carlito Galvez, our CCCH head, and a joint inspection team is now being formed to verify and inspect the area soon,” Gapay said.

Gapay and his men took photographs of the training facility.

Higaonon tribal leader Deodado Abugan Sr. earlier filed the complaint before the Iligan City peace and order council, showing photos of the training camp with white stone markers laid out the ground in an open clearing welcoming guests to the MILF’s 103rd Base Command.

Aside from obstacle courses, a makeshift guardhouse and a pile of wooden rifles being used for training, the troops also obtained a sample of the ID cards identifying the occupants of the area as belonging to the 305th Unit Guerilla Operation of the MILF’s 103rd Base Command, North-Eastern Mindanao Front, Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).

The ID read “305th Unit, Guerrilla Operation, Taguloan, Amai Pak-Pak Province.”

Gapay said they have gathered that two batches of recruits composed of 80 and 72 recruits, mostly non-Muslim indigenous people, including the Higaonons, the tribesmen residing in the area, have already completed their military training supervised by the MILF at the camp.

There were reports that the supposed MILF guerrilla unit had promised five hectares of land to each recruit once the Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed.

The report added that each recruit was required to pay P800 before he can undergo the military training at the camp.

Located near the boundary of Lanao del Sur where the MILF has two huge camps in Butig town – Camp Bila and Camp Bushra – the training camp can only be reached via Cagayan de Oro City, then through Bukidnon on the Palacat route and not directly from Iligan City.

Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, Armed Forces of the Philippines-Public Affairs Office chief, said a Joint Site Verification Mission was created with members of the joint ceasefire committee, the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), and the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT), along with local officials and tribal leaders.

Cabunoc said the people behind these activities are only fooling the indigenous people because in the first place the land in the area is part of the ancestral
domain of the Higaonon tribe.
 
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/03/22/15/milf-camp-now-abandoned-intact

Japan supports 7 projects for peace and development in Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): Japan supports 7 projects for peace and development in Mindanao

Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa will sign seven grant contracts with respective recipient organizations for various social development projects in conflict - affected areas in Mindanao at 9 a.m. on March 24, 2015 at Astoria Plaza Hotel.

These projects are funded through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) implemented by the Embassy of Japan as part of the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD).

The signing ceremony will be attended by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Undersecretary Luisito Montalbo, Executive Director of Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) Mohammad Shuaib Yacob, and Member of Government Peace Negotiating Panel for Talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF) Secretary Senen Bacani.

The new package of assistance, amounting to 645,879 US dollars (approximately 27 million pesos), will form part of Japan's commitment to peace and development efforts in Mindanao. The package includes three projects in education, two projects in agriculture and two projects in health.

1. “The Project for the Construction of an Outpatient Building of Rural Health Unit of Vincenzo Sagun”

2. “The Project for the Construction of Classrooms for Dumadalig Integrated School in Tantangan, South Cotabato”

3. “The Project for the Construction of Classrooms for Manglicmot High School in Alamada, North Cotabato

4. “The Project for the Construction of Classrooms for Patadon Elementary School in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato

5. “The Project for Providing Medical Equipment and Fixtures for the Delivery Room of the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center

6. “The Project for the Acquisition of Two (2) Units of Light Hauling Vehicles”

7. “The Project for the Provision of Pre and Postharvest Facilities for the Farmers of the Municipality of Bagumbayan in Sultan Kudarat”

These projects are part of the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD), the Japanese government's package of assistance in support of peace and development in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao.

Since the launch of J-BIRD in 2006, Japan has supported 82 GGP projects in the total amount of 7.19 million US dollars through J-BIRD as of March 2015.

In addition to the GGP support, the Government of Japan has continued to send two senior advisors under the International Monitoring Team (IMT) to assist the reconstruction and development of conflict-affected areas in Mindanao since October 2006. Moreover, since October 2009, Japan has been a member of the International Contact Group (ICG), which performs such roles as giving advice to the parties concerned on the Mindanao Peace Process and participating in peace talks as observers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=746983

180 lumads in Agusan evacuate

From the Manila Standard Today (Mar 23): 180 lumads in Agusan evacuate
 
One hundred eighty (180) Lumads have left their homes anew for fear of being caught in the crossfire between the military and NPA rebels in the area where three brothers – Phillip, Philims and Philjohn Poloyapoy—were abducted, of which one (Philjohn) was later found dead.

Capt. Joselito Borces, spokesman of the 75th IB Philippine Army said Sunday that the evacuees were from  two sitios of Barangay Bunawan Brooks, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur and that New People’s Army and allied groups told them to evacuate to prevent them from talking to the Community Organizing for Peace and Development of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“The evacuees are now staying at Barangay Bunawan Brook Multi-Purpose Hall. There is some government food supply ration but lacking because LGU of Bunawan town can’t justify to release funds because of problem of determination if the evacuation was caused by natural or man-made calamities since they are NPA rebels induced” Borces added.

 Borces claimed that every time the military’s COPD workers visited their homes to assess the insurgency situation, residents told them that the rebels were also organizing the communities.

 COPD soldiers are supposed to help build peace confidence measures, assess socio-economic situation in the communities like how government can help improve delivery of basic social services on health, education, livelihood, improve agriculture productivity.

“It is the insurgency problem that make communities poorer,” he said.

But Human Rights group Karapatan-Caraga Secretary General Elaisa Pangilinan said that military occupation of private and public areas in the community, including vacant houses, community cooperatives, chapels and multipurpose halls were also the reasons why the IPs are  leaving their homes.

 She added that the evacuees started leaving their homes on February 3, 2015.

Meanwhile, KARAPATAN Agusan del Sur said evacuees told them that soldiers remained in theior communities and living in the houses they vacated.

Only this week, some 1,000 Lumad evacuees from 14 tribal communities in San Luis, Agusan del Sur returned to their homes after a dialogue organized by  Agusan del Sur Governor Eddie Bong Plaza and San Luis mayor Ronald Corvera March 19.

The evacuees decried their situation in the evacuation center given the slow pace of government help.

“We felt as if there is no Philippine government existing due no DWSD, DOH, Dep Ed and other government agencies like TESDA helping as in our day to day lives to overcome poverty at least. Personnel of these government agencies should not just stay in their air-conditioned offices,”  said Datu Jumong, one of the tribal leaders.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/03/23/180-lumads-in-agusan-evacuate/

PA junior officer gets Gold Cross Medal for helping in extrication of trapped SAF men in Jan. 25 Mamasapano incident

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 23): PA junior officer gets Gold Cross Medal for helping in extrication of trapped SAF men in Jan. 25 Mamasapano incident

The Philippine Army (PA), during its 118th anniversary on Monday, decorated 2nd Lt. Jeymark Y. Mateo with the Gold Cross Medal for his efforts in extricating Special Action Force (SAF) men pinned down in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last Jan. 25.

The Gold Cross Medal is the third highest combat award in the Philippines.

"As platoon leader of the 61st Division Reconnaissance Company, 6th Infantry Division, 2nd Lt. Mateo, together with his platoon, reinforced the 84th Special Action Company of the PNP-SAF that was engaged in an encounter with undetermined number of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and lawless groups, and was heavily under fire, in Barangay Tukalanipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao last Jan. 25. His group retrieved eight killed, 11 wounded, and 18 unharmed PNP-SAF troopers from the 84th SAC," the PA said in a statement.

Aside from recovering wounded and slain SAF personnel, Mateo and his men also recovered equipment and weapons left behind.

Other Gold Cross Medal awardees include 7th Infantry Division Sgt. Benjamin A. Garlejo. He was recognized for gallantry in action during an encounter with fully-armed rebels in Barangay Bubon, Camiling, Tarlac, which resulted in the neutralization of six rebels, the capture of one, and the recovery of 11 assorted firearms.

Leading this year's awardees were Cpl. Narding N. Pascual, who earned the Distinguished Conduct Star, and Lt. Col. Noel A. Vestuir, who received the Distinguished Service Star, for meritorious and valuable service.

Pascual is a squad leader of the Composite Squad from Charlie Company, 26th Infantry Battalion and 3rd Platoon, 27th Agusan del Sur CAA Company, the Special Operations Group (SOG) that operates in the hinter barangays of San Luis, Agusan del Sur.

Vestuir, on the other hand, transformed his unit into a highly efficient unit that stood the crucial test in the insurgent-infested province of Northern Samar and the 1st District of Western Samar.

Sgt. Arnel S. Labaco was awarded with the Bronze Cross Medal for acts of heroism involving risk of life.

As member of the Light Reaction Company pursuing Abu Sayyaf Group bandits, he reinforced the unit from the 2nd Marine Brigade and provided first aid to the wounded Marines, which action resulted to the successful casualty evacuation of the wounded personnel.

The Gawad sa Kaunlaran was conferred on Major Virgilio J. Perez for his meritorious and invaluable participation in the conduct of humanitarian civic actions in the Bicol region as part of the Philippines-United States Balikatan Exercises 2014, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response in Southern Leyte.

The Army also commended the exceptional performance of 2nd Lt. Jake Rancel V. Guellega and Sgt. German A. Guerra who received the Military Merit Medal; Cpl. Oliver G. Ramirez who was hailed as the Enlisted Personnel of the Year; CAA Samuel V. Sabanal, named as the CAA of the Year; Engr. Wenefredo DC Abalos as the Philippine Army Model Supervisor; and Cristina K. Baterbonia as the Philippine Army Model Employee.

Meanwhile, reservists and ROTC cadets were also recognized. Among the awardees were Capt. Hubert Christopher A. Dolor, Reservist of the Year; Sgt. Donnie L. Nietes, Enlisted Personnel Reservist of the Year; Cadet Harold P. Blanco, ROTC Male cadet; and Cadette Joy Nathalie M. Avelino, ROTC Female Cadet.

The Command Plaque was also given to Rep. Mel Senen S. Sarmiento of the 1st District of Western Samar, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the PNP.

Sarmiento provided his expertise and advice on governance and organizational excellence as member of the PA Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board, while the CIDG-PNP is recognized for its support in the intelligence operations of the Army.

The provincial government of Ilocos Sur, National Bookstore Foundation Inc., HERO Foundation Inc., and the Leonio Group of Companies also received Command Plaques. The above-named civilian stakeholders supported the Army’s community-based peace and development initiative and projects.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=747070

Operations vs BIFF will go on, Catapang vows

From the Manila Standard Today (Mar 23): Operations vs BIFF will go on, Catapang vows

THE military offensives against the members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Jemaah-Islamiyah-linked groups and other terrorist groups will continue until they are arrested or neutralized, an official said Sunday.

Catapang Jr.
“The security forces will continue to conduct military operations against the terrorist BIFF and their cohorts in their communities,” Armed Forces Chief Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said.

He made his statement even as another official said the 120,000 people displaced by the Army’s offensive against the Muslim insurgents would soon be allowed to return home now that the violence had eased.

“We will determine which areas will be safe for the evacuees to go back in the areas already cleared of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters,” regional military spokeswoman Captain Joan Petinglay said.

The military in Maguindanao in February launched an all-out operation against the BIFF, a small insurgent group fighting to set up an Islamic state in the south. It rejects a peace pact signed by the much larger Moro Islamic Liberation Front from which the BIFF split.

The UN refugee agency has warned that more than 120,000 people have fled their homes in the south due to the fighting.

Several non-government organizations have been  calling for a ceasefire between the military and the BIFF and other terrorist groups because of the increasing number of displaced people in Mindanao.

But the military says it might scale down its operation against the Muslim insurgents but will not stop it to avoid giving the insurgents breathing space.

“We have gained the momentum in this fight against lawlessness and we will never abandon our constitutional mandate to protect the people from bandits, criminals and terrorists,” Catapang said.

“As of today, March 21, we have accounted for 139 killed, 53 wounded and 12 arrested BIFF members,” he said.

Earlier, Catapang and Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II declared the BIFF a terrorist group for coddling the terrorist Usman and his foreign JI cohorts who were said to have been behind the bombings in Mindanao.

Meanwhile, Catapang said they will facilitate the conduct of joint graduation ceremonies for the schools in the areas that have been affected by the military operations against the BIFF.

“We are considering a proposal to identify a safe area where the joint graduation ceremonies can be conducted,” Catapang said.

“We need to discuss and take collective decisions together with our partners like the LGUs [local government units], the PNP [Philippine National Police] and DEPED [Department of Education].

“We would like to see school children flocking to schools in pursuit of education and better lives. We are delighted to see them finish school and receive their diplomas and recognition.”

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/03/23/operations-vs-biff-will-go-on-catapang-vows/