Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Army in Northern Mindanao to recruit 200 candidate soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 15): Army in Northern Mindanao to recruit 200 candidate soldiers

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan De Oro City – The Philippine Army here would start recruiting 200 candidate soldiers to become regular soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the military announced Thursday.

Capt. Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division here, said that the recruitment would start Friday until the 200 quota required by the division is meet.

He said that all able-bodied applicants 18 to 23 years old are qualified to take the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) as one of the requirements of the application.

Martinez said that the applicant should present Transcript of Record (Original and Photocopy), 2 pieces ID pictures with white background.

He said that the applicant should also present the original and photocopy of NSO Birth Certificate, original and photocopy of the Diploma, and any valid identification card.

The applicants should submit all the requirements to the Philippine Army Headquarters at the 4ID here in Patag, Cagayan De Oro City.

Martinez said that all qualified applicants would take oath as the next Candidate Soldiers Course (CSC) on June 1, 2016 to provide the applicants enough time to prepare them emotionally and physically from a civilian to a soldier.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815495

Rebel’s permit to campaign is illegal: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): Rebel’s permit to campaign is illegal: Army

The Philippine Army on Wednesday described the permit to campaign imposed by the communist rebels on politicians as illegal and unauthorized.

Capt. Patrick Martinez, the spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division here, said that the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels imposed various permits on politicians in exchange of “fees” to be allowed to freely campaign in far flung villages in the country.

These permits include “permit to campaign” (PTC) and “permit to win” (PTW), Martinez said.

He said that the NPA extract different amounts of “fees” on these categories.

Martinez said that these fees were illegal and violated the provision of the Philippine Constitution that provides “candidates for any public office to be free from any form of harassment and discrimination.”

The PTC and PTW also violate the right to suffrage and makes the electoral process a mockery because it is the exact opposite of having a democratic government “by the people, of the people and for the people.”

He said that the PTC and PTW breed the idea of corruption because the aspiring politicians would think of regaining the amount paid from public funds when elected to office.

“For the NPAs, more politicians duped, more money to collect, more opportunities to sow threat – an ingredient to massive graft and corruption,” Martinez said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815224

Suspects in NGCP towers bombing arrested in North Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 15): Suspects in NGCP towers bombing arrested in North Cotabato

Police arrested here Wednesday night three men believed to be behind the bombing of two transmission towers of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) last week.

Chief Inspector Raymund Sarmogenes, company commander 2nd Maneuver Company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB), said Senior Inspector Sindatu Karim, Pikit town police chief, sought the assistance of RPSB about a tip from concerned citizens that three armed men on board a motorbike will enter the town proper.

Sarmogenes said a surprised checkpoint was quickly established along a road near Fort Pikit at 10 p.m.

Minutes later, a Kawasaki motorbike with license plate MG-7541 with three men on board was flagged down for inspection.

Karim, quoting a report from RPSB, said the motorbike was driven by a certain Sam Hasan from Datu Paglas, Maguindanao. When he was subjected to body search, a live hand grenade fell off from his cargo pants.

Sarmogenes said the three, Hasan, Jonathan Pangawilan and Kuyog Sultan, both residents of Raja Muda, Pikit, North Cotabato were held for questioning.

Karim said Task Force Pikit has received a tip about the presence of men behind the bombings of NGCP Tower 44 and 45 on October 9.

Karim earlier said those behind the bombing of NGCP power lines were members of an extortion gang known as al-Khobar and outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

The bombing plunged part of North Cotabato, the whole of Maguindanao and Cotabato City into darkness. Repair and rehabilitation for the fallen towers are still ongoing.

Karim said the suspects will be turned over to the North Cotabato provincial jail.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815288

U.S. Embassy launches two projects on Zamboanga del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 15): U.S. Embassy launches two projects on Zamboanga del Sur
 
The United States Embassy through its Public Affairs Section has launched two projects that will benefit more than 800 women and 40 youths from conflict-affected areas in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

The U.S. Embassy said in a statement that one of the two projects, called “Promoting Agricultural Entrepreneurship among Disadvantaged Women,” will enable women-farmers in the province of Zamboanga del Sur to become entrepreneurs and leaders in agricultural development.

The province of Zamboanga del Sur consists of 26 municipalities and one component city. It has a population of 959,685 as of the 2010 census on population.

The training is designed by U.S. Embassy partner Women Empowerment Movement Rural Improvement Club Zamboanga del Sur, Inc.

The two-year project will help beneficiaries expand their economic opportunities by helping them identify agricultural resources, markets, and technologies that can increase their incomes.

The project is funded by the U.S. Secretary of State’s Office of Global Women’s Issues.

The second project, called “Children of War,” aims to transform 40 youth from conflict-affected areas into peace agents in their own communities.

The innovative project will provide technical education and career skills certification, as well as offering training and certification in peace advocacy and conflict resolution.

The participants will then share their acquired knowledge, training 200 community peace volunteers from their respective communities to become leaders themselves.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815470

5 NPA rebels killed in clash with soldiers in Batangas

From the Sun Star-Manila (Oct 15): 5 NPA rebels killed in clash with soldiers in Batangas

FIVE communist New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed and two civilians were injured following a clash with government forces in Nasugbu, Batangas on Wednesday, a military official said Thursday.

Major General Romeo Gan, 2nd Infantry Division commander, said the firefight erupted when elements of 710th Special Operations Wing were fire upon by undetermined number of NPA rebels in Sitio Bautista, Barangay Mataas Napulo, Nasugbu.

The village is a rebel stronghold, Gan said.

Gan said the two civilians that were injured, a minor and 50-year-old man, were brought to a hospital in Nasugbu for treatment.
The military suffered no casualty, the official said.

"(I) immediately ordered the pursuit against the remaining members of the group. The neutralization of the armed group is yet another blow to the NPA's attempt to show that they are active in the Batangas area," Gan said.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2015/10/15/5-npa-rebels-killed-clash-soldiers-batangas-435923

Air Force Combat Group kills five communist rebels

From Ang Malaya (Oct 15): Air Force Combat Group kills five communist rebels

Five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed during an encounter with the 730th Combat Group, 710th Special Operations Wing of the Philippine Air Force in Barangay Mataas na Pulo, Nasugbu town, Batangas Wednesday afternoon. The clash took place 1: 45 p.m., Southern Luzon Command spokesperson Major Angelo Guzman said.

Bodies of the slain rebels were all recovered by the military. “A squad from my unit was conducting a combat patrol when they came upon more or less 10 rebels along a deep creek in a 15-minute firefight,” 730th Combat Group head Major Francisco Mangubat said.

“They were responding to reports regarding the presence of armed men in the area,” Mangubat said. Soldiers who conducted clearing operations later recovered two M-14 rifles, an M-16 automatic rifle and a carbine.

Two civilians were slightly wounded in the clash. One was identified as 50-year-old Edwin Coronel and the other a 14-year-old boy. Guzman said the two were immediately brought to Apacible Memorial Hospital in Nasugbu for medical assistance. Both are now in stable condition.

“About three weeks ago, we monitored that a section of the MRGU (Main Regional Guerilla Unit) of the NPA operating in Mindoro had moved to Batangas. We immediately alerted our troops there to watch out for their presence in the area,” Southern Luzon Command head Lt. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya said.

He added that there is a big possibility that that the armed group the troops encountered in Nasugbu is the same MRGU section earlier monitored.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/10/15/14283-air-force-combat-group-kills-five-communist-rebels

VIDEO | Released Zambo Sibugay mayor recounts kidnap ordeal under Abu Sayyaf

From InterAksyon (Oct 15): VIDEO | Released Zambo Sibugay mayor recounts kidnap ordeal under Abu Sayyaf



Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay recounts her abduction in the hands of Abu Sayyaf bandits. TV5 SCREENSHOT

A day after she was released by the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu province, Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay recounted to News5 how she was kidnapped from her home almost six months ago and how the bandits treated her while in captivity.

The ordeal that Adana suffered in the hands of her captors was not apparent as she was happily reunited with her family and supporters on Wednesday.

News5 sources said an P8.5-million ransom was paid by her camp for her release, but she doubted whether her family could raise such amount.

The Philippine National Police also denied that they received information that someone had paid ransom for her release, adding that the government adhered to the “no-ransom” policy.

Though Adana’s release coincided with the filing of the certificate of candidacy for the May 2016 elections, she said her family will have to seriously take into account her harrowing experience if she decides to return to politics.

Here’s a News5 video report by Dindo Flora:

[Video: Interview of Mayor Adana]

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/118938/video--released-zambo-sibugay-mayor-recounts-kidnap-ordeal-under-abu-sayyaf

MILF: Aquino asks Hataman to run for re-election in ARMM, but to make sacrifice once BBL is passed

Posted to the MILF Website (Oct 14): Aquino asks Hataman to run for re-election in ARMM, but to make sacrifice once BBL is passed

Aquino asks Hataman to run for re-election in ARMM, but to make sacrifice once BBL is passed

In a report by Philstar on October 12, it said that President Benigno Aquino III had asked ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman to run for re-election but have to make sacrifice once the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is passed by congress in December.

Hataman said the president has asked him to file his certificate of candidacy (COC) for reelection, while telling him to be ready to step down once the BBL is passed to allow room for transition, the report also said.

President Aquino cleared to Hataman that the “BBL is not dead”, and “I will push for its enactment”, the regional governor quoted the president, in a gathering at Basilan.

On Sunday, October 11, Hataman officially declared his reelection bid during the 1st Basilan People's Assembly at Isabela City attended by various sectors where he united all incumbent leaders to run under one administration ticket.

Hataman said the president told him about the plan Thursday during their meeting in Manila.
He said the president doubted that if another candidate would run for the gubernatorial post in ARMM, it would be difficult for the administration to convince him to step down citing possible legal matters.

"There is no problem for me because that's how tight our advocacy to pass the BBL measure was," Hataman said.

Hataman said he visited the MILF and informed the group of the president's plan for him to file.
"I visited and talked to them (MILF), explaining about the plan baka ma-misunderstood n'yo na mag-file ako ng kandidatura. This doesn't mean the BBL is dead," Hataman said. "This is a sacrifice for me because once BBL is passed and ratified by January, I may not be a candidate."

He said the MILF leadership was confident of Aquino's sincerity in passing the BBL and expressed understanding of the political dynamics involved.(Source: Philstar)

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/618-aquino-asks-hataman-to-run-for-re-election-in-armm-but-to-make-sacrifice-once-bbl-is-passed

MILF: MILF, MNLF sign Unified Declaration; to push for passage of BTC draft BBL

Posted to the MILF Website (Oct 14): MILF, MNLF sign Unified Declaration; to push for passage of BTC draft BBL



Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Datu Muslimen Sema of the MNLF Council of 15 signed a historic document called Unified Declaration on October 13 at Camp Darapanan, also known as Camp Arifeen, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on October 13.
   
Mohammad Ameen of the MILF General Secretariat in his introductory statement said, “The event today aims at finding just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro homeland; moving forward in unison to regain our lost freedom and the Bangsamoro’s right-to-self-determination as distinct and independent people”. 

Ameen considers the event as a significant unification of the MILF and the MNLF for the freedom of the Bangsamoro people.

MILF 1st Vice Chairman Ghazali Jafaar in his welcome address said, “Today’s occasion is a very significant and timely event, the MNLF and the MILF have manifested and exhausted all the known civilized and democratic way of solving the Bangsamoro issue particularly through negotiated political settlements. However, until now the Bangsamoro issue remains unsolved”.



Jafaar narrated the story about the three bulls and one lion. The three bulls were once united and cannot be defeated, but when one of them was deceived by the lion, they ended up eaten by the lion.
Citing the anecdote as a lesson, Jafaar quoted the saying, United We Stand, Divided We Fall”.

“With the realities confronting the Bangsamoro people, it is therefore incumbent upon all of us, leaders of the Bangsamoro to solidly unite just like we did in the past, if we do not want to meet the fate of the three bulls in the anecdote”, he further said.

He called on his brothers in the two Moro fronts to solidly unite, stand as one and firmly demand for the establishment of the genuine self-governance in the Bangsamoro”

MNLF Vice Chairman Hatimil Hassan on the other hand recalled the history of the Bangsamoro people. “We were the first to resist foreign colonization from the Spaniards time to the American period. Our people had been resisting oppression, colonization that caused the martyrdom of so many people in defending our homeland and religion, Islam”.

“In our long history of struggle for separation, the Sultanate of Sulu and Maguindanao resisted the colonialists”, Said Hassan.

The message of MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim was so inspiring and motivating. He told the audience of more than 400 individuals, “Indeed, today is a historic day for the Bangsamoro people.

This occasion reminds us and refreshes our minds to the days, more than Forty years ago when we stood together in the same ground with One Objective and One Aspiration”. 



“As oppressed nation, who have been awakened to organized ourselves in order to defend our people from the merciless massacres and killings, the endless tyranny, rampant land grabbing, deliberate social, political and economic marginalization, and other forms of injustices, you and I have experienced these too much. You and I have been both humiliated and degraded. You and I both lost our properties, you and I have both lost much of our lands, and the most painful of all is that you and I have both lost our parents, our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters and other members of our beloved families. It is painful because until now, it seems so fresh in our minds those tragic moments”, the MILF chair also said.

Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim mentioned the more than one hundred thousand lives mostly civilians, women, children and the aged that were already lost and the billions of properties damaged and destroyed during the Moro revolutionary war.

In ending his message, the MILF chair said, “It is bear repeating that our objective is the same and the reason for our unity has remained intact. Hence, today’s signing of the MNLF and MILF Unified Declaration, Alhamdulillah, manifest our commitment to remain united as brothers in Islam towards resolution of the Bangsamoro question, more importantly, our religion, Islam, is enjoining us to move as one”.

MNLF Council of 15 Chair Sema in his message said, “Today, we are here in these great hall erected right in the heart of truly MNLF enclave, Darapanan and we claim, once again as we did before, that we are Moros, in search of acceptance and peace with our fellowmen. With great joy, we have reached once again, a milestone in our struggle to agree on a common position and a common approach to the realization of the promises of peace”.



“What we are to achieve today is one of the building blocks of a permanent peace in our homeland. Certainly, there will be no peace, not even a semblance of it, if either the 2 peace tracts, the GPH-MNLF-OIC Tripartite Review on the implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement or the GPH-MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), is left hanging in the balance”, Sema also said.

“Both peace tracts must come to fruition, the agreements achieved in both tracts must be implemented fully, wholly, and faithfully, with high regard to their solemn objectives, the establishment of truly autonomous Bangsamoro Government, and the Moro and Filipino peoples’ common aspiration for peace”, Sema continued.

After Sema’s message, the signing of the Unified Declaration followed. The Declaration contains, among others, the following:

“We demand for permanent and just political solution to the Bangsamoro Question and we strongly believe that the BTC proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) if enacted into law without diluting it shall implement the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement in letter and spirits”.

“We also strongly believe that the full implementation of the CAB is in line with the implementation of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and in accordance with OIC resolution of 2014”.

The message that followed by MGen. Sheikh Moksin Bin Sheikh Hassan of the International Monitoring Team-Mission 10 was equally inspiring. He lauded the two Moro fronts for coming up with a unified agreement that makes the quest for peace and freedom in the Bangsamoro homeland even stronger.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/617-milf-mnlf-sign-unified-declaration-to-push-for-passage-of-btc-draft-bbl

MILF: Pres Aquino hit Marcos for opposing BBL

Posted to the MILF Website (Oct 14): Pres Aquino hit Marcos for opposing BBL

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday hit at Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos for the lawmaker’s continuous opposition against the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

“Balita ko nga: Merong humirit mula sa Senado na wala na raw pag-asang pumasa ang BBL. Sa totoo lang, wala naman siyang iminumungkahing mas maganda, at sa pakiwari ko nga po ay wala siya talagang iminumungkahing iba—period,”Aquino said in his speech during the announcement of the Liberal Paty’s senatorial lineup at the Balay headquarters in Quezon City on Monday.

“Ang gusto niya lang ay kumontra sa ating mga isinusulong. Sa tingin ko, mali ang pagkakaintindi niya sa ibig sabihin ng “lingkod-bayan,” the president added.

Aquino stressed that the proposed legislation would be the solution to resolve the decades-long conflict in Southern Philippines.

The BBL is the legal translation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro which the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine Government signed after more than 17 years of peace talks.

Aquino pointed out that the BBL remains “top agenda” of his administration.

“Isipin ninyo na lang: ‘Pag di naipasa ang BBL, ipagpapatuloy lang natin ang siklo ng hidwaan; tuloy lang na malulugmok ang mga kapatid natin sa gulo at kahirapan,” he added.

According to Marcos the Malacañang’s version of the BBL has no chance of passing in both the Upper and Lower Houses of Congress because of constitutional infirmities.

He then crafted a substitute bill to assure that the proposed measure for the Bangsamoro is constitutional.

Aquino had earlier expressed willingness to support the Marcos’ substitute bill  only if it is proven better than the original version.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/615-pres-aquino-hit-marcos-for-opposing-bbl

Most capable US Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer enters Pacific Ocean

From Ang Malaya (Oct 14): Most capable US Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer enters Pacific Ocean

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) of the United States Navy has entered 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility October 13 for security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the US Navy said. USS Benfold is now homeported to Yokosuka, Japan from its previous homeport in Naval Station San Diego, California.

USS Benfold’s will enhance presence in the 7th Fleet as part of the US Navy’s long range plan to send the most advanced and capable units to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, while also adding to the Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) capable ships in 7th Fleet’s AOR.

7th Fleet’s AOR includes 36 maritime countries and the world’s five largest foreign armed forces, People’s Republic of China, Russia, India, North Korea and Republic of Korea. Five of the seven US Mutual Defense Treaties are with countries in the area, Republic of the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Japan, and Thailand.

In October 2014, the US Navy said ballistic missile defense (BMD)-capable guided-missile destroyers USS Benfold and USS Milius (DDG 69) will be homeported to Japan, 2015 and 2017 respectively, as part of the US Navy’s long-range plan to put the most advanced and capable units forward. While guided missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) will hull swap USS Lassen (DDG 82) to join the Forward Deployed Naval Forces.

“Barry, Benfold, and Milius will all complete a midlife modernization, making them among the most capable ships of their class. All will be fitted with the latest Aegis Baseline 9 combat system which includes state of the art air defense, ballistic missile defense, surface warfare and undersea warfare capabilities,” the US Navy said.

http://www.angmalaya.net/world/2015/10/14/14239-most-capable-us-arleigh-burke-class-guided-missile-destroyer-enters-pacific-ocean

Japan, India, US start massive military exercise

From Ang Malaya (Oct 14): Japan, India, US start massive military exercise

India, Japan and United States warships, aircraft and troops are participating in the joint exercise Malabar 2015 starting October 14 to 19. The US Navy sent the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) with embarked Carrier Air Wing 1, guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), littoral combat ship USS Fort Worth (LCS 3), a P-8A Poseidon aircraft, and a Los Angeles-Class fast-attack submarine.

“Malabar is a complex, high-end warfighting exercise that has grown in scope and complexity over the years. Malabar 2015 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises conducted to advance multi-national maritime relationships and mutual security issues,” the US Navy said.

The exercise will feature both ashore and at-sea training. The on-shore training will be in Chennai, India which will include subject matter expert and professional exchanges on carrier strike group operations; maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations; surface and anti-submarine warfare; medical operations; damage control; explosive ordnance disposal (EOD); helicopter operations; and visit board search and seizure (VBSS) operations.

The at-sea part will be conducted off the east coast of India and are designed to advance participating nations’ military-to-military coordination and capacity to plan and execute tactical operations in a multinational environment.

http://www.angmalaya.net/world/2015/10/14/14257-japan-india-us-start-massive-military-exercise

47IB strengthening capability skills

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct 14): 47IB strengthening capability skills

The 450-strong 47 th Infantry Battalion deployed in southern Negros is undergoing a two-month unit enhancement training at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, in a bid to enhance the skills of its members in the non-conventional warfare setting.

Soldiers of the 47IB were pulled out from southern Negros in previous months to undergo re-training, as part of the Philippine Army's program to sharpen their skills in performing mandated tasks.

Maj. Rey Tiongson, 3 rd Infantry Division spokesman, said the 47IB is expected to be back in Negros, after completion of its training on Oct. 30.

The areas temporarily vacated by the 47IB are being occupied by the 79 th IB. Both infantry units are under the supervision of the 302 nd Infantry Brigade stationed in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental.

The training is conducted annually by the 3ID as part of the Army's capability enhancement plan. It also introduces new strategies for use in anti-insurgency operations.

Lt. Col. Pompeyo Jason Almagro commands the 47IB.

The 3ID will also receive brand new M4 carbine assault rifles soon, for issuance to its 5,000 troopers assigned in Negros, Panay and Cebu.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2015/October/14/negor4.htm

AFP 'analyzing' video of Samal hostages, still uncertain who kidnappers are

From InterAksyon (Oct 14): AFP 'analyzing' video of Samal hostages, still uncertain who kidnappers are



The Armed Forces of the Philippines said Wednesday it is still analyzing the video, posted on the Internet, showing the three foreigners and Filipina kidnapped from Samal Island last month although it called the apparent good health of the hostages “positive.”

Aside from this, AFP spokesman Colonel Restituto Padilla said very little at a press briefing, saying they “cannot divulge operational details and discuss way ahead recommendations that may put in jeopardy the lives of the kidnap victims as well as others on the ground.”

Padilla also refused to say where the Samal hostages as well as Italian Rolando del Torchio, who was abducted in Dipolog City, are possibly being held.

Earlier, intelligence sources said Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, Hall’s Filipina girlfriend Marites Flor, and Norwegian resort owner Kjartan Sekkingstad were seized by the Abu Sayyaf and taken straight to Sulu where they are supposedly being guarded by 200 gunmen.

On the other hand, reports say Del Torchio was allegedly seized by a band of Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters.

The video shows the hostages sitting on the ground surrounded by masked gunmen, one of them held by the head by a man wielding a knife, with banners similar to that used by the Islamic State in the background.

In it, the three foreigners appeal to the Canadian and Philippine governments for help and to stop militar operations, including artillery barrages.

“The positive thing that we derived from this video is that the kidnap victims are in good health … and that is as far as we are concerned, part of the good news that we got out of it,” Padilla said.

However, Padilla said the video was not enough to identify the Samal hostages’ captors or Del Torchio’s kidnappers.

Mahirap pa pong pangalanan kung anong grupo ang nasa (likod) ng mga isinagawang krimen na ito,” Padilla said, adding this would depend on the what analysts learn from the video. 

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/118919/afp-analyzing-video-of-samal-hostages-still-uncertain-who-kidnappers-are

US and Australia warn China on sea access

From InterAksyon (Oct 14): US and Australia warn China on sea access



(From right) US Defense Secretary Ash Carter and Secretary of State John Kerry and their Australian counterparts Marise Payen and Julie Bishop at their annual two-day meeting in Boston, 13 October 2015. REUTERS

The United States and its Pacific ally Australia warned China on Tuesday that they remain committed to freedom of navigation in the waters of the South China Sea.

China has maritime territorial disputes with several of its southeast Asian neighbors and is trying to bolster its claim by building artificial islands.

According to senior US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, Washington is drawing up a plan to sail by these islands in the coming days or weeks.

The warship or ships would pass within the 12-mile territorial limit China claims around the structures to demonstrate that US commanders do not recognize it.

Meanwhile, after an annual two-day meeting, the US and Australian defense and foreign ministers said they do not have a view on the legal arguments of the dispute.

But they warned that they will continue to support freedom of navigation and send ships and planes through what they regard as internationals water in the region.

US Defense Secretary Ash Carter joined Secretary of State John Kerry and their Australian counterparts Marise Payen and Julie Bishop in Boston.

"Australia and America both want to sustain and renew an Asia-Pacific regional security architecture where everyone rises and everyone prospers," Carter said. 

"But make no mistake," he warned "the United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows, as we do around the world.

"And the South China Sea is not and will not be an exception."

Carter said this was not just a US commitment, but was shared by Washington's major regional allies Japan, the Philippines, India, and Vietnam.

Bishop said Washington and Canberra were "on the same page" over the dispute.

"We do not take sides on the various territorial claims, but we urge all parties to not act unilaterally, to not act in a way that would escalate tensions," she said.

Bishop expressed support for "the principles of freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight." 

"We continue to work together to press those principles on all claimants in the South China Sea and elsewhere," she added.

On Saturday, China vowed to continue building on the disputed reefs and said construction had finished on two lighthouses in areas claimed by smaller rivals.

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam -- members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) -- claim parts of the sea. Taiwan is a sixth claimant.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has said Beijing will not militarize its new structures, but satellite images show they have runways that could be used by air force jets.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/118894/us-and-australia-warn-china-on-sea-access

Carter: US will sail near Spratly Islands any time it wants

From Military.com (Oct 14): Carter: US will sail near Spratly Islands any time it wants

The littoral combat ship USS Fort Worth conducts routine patrols in international waters of the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands as the People's Liberation Army-Navy guided-missile frigate Yancheng sails close behind May 11, 2015. Conor Minto/Navy

The littoral combat ship USS Fort Worth conducts routine patrols in international waters of the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands as the People's Liberation Army-Navy guided-missile frigate Yancheng sails close behind May 11, 2015. Conor Minto/Navy

The U.S. Navy will not be deterred from conducting a close patrol of China's manmade Spratly Islands, if it chooses, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said Tuesday.

"We will fly, sail and operate wherever the international law permits, and we will do that at the times and places of our choosing, and there's no exception to that," Carter said in Boston, where he and Secretary of State John Kerry were meeting with their Australian counterparts. "Whether it's the Arctic, or the sea lanes that fuel international commerce widely around the world, or the South China Sea."

Carter said the United States wants China and the other countries to halt reclamation and militarization activities on the Spratly Islands, a collection of islands, rocks and elevated coral reefs. According to a recent maritime report by the Department of Defense, there are more than 200 Spratly land features, though that figure varies based on how geographers count them.

Vietnam occupies 48 of the Spratlys, Taiwan occupies one, the Philippines occupies eight, Malaysia occupies five and China occupies eight, according to the report.

China, Taiwan and Vietnam each claim all of the Spratly land features.

But it's China's rapid buildup of an airstrip on the Fiery Cross Reef that has generated the most concern. U.S. officials have begun briefing their Pacific allies on the proposed sail, which could come as close as 12 nautical miles to the Chinese buildup, according to news reports. Every nation can claim up to 12 nautical miles from its coast as sovereign territory.

Carter said the United States is not taking a position on which nations have sovereignty over the islands.

"In the meantime, the United States continues to call for all parties to halt further reclamation and any further militarization of features in the South China Sea."

Australia has interest in free navigation of the South China Sea, because about two-thirds of the country's merchandise trade passes through those waters, said Julie Bishop, Australian Foreign Affairs Minister.

"We have said consistently and persistently that the reclamation work carried out notably by China, but by any others, should halt," she said.

Carter said the effect of China's buildup on the Spratly Islands has been "increasing our maritime cooperation with many countries in the region. They're asking for more interaction with the United States and the United States Navy."

The U.S. 7th Fleet has seven combat ships -- four destroyers, a dock landing ship, a littoral ship and a minesweeper -- at sea in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Timothy Hawkins said. One destroyer is conducting "presence operations" in the South China Sea, designed to reinforce the U.S. ship's right to be there, he said.

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2015/10/14/carter-us-will-sail-near-spratly-islands-any-time-it-wants.html

DVIDS: Germantown completes PHIBLEX

From DVIDS (Oct 12): Germantown completes PHIBLEX

Germantown completes PHIBLEX

WATERS OFF PALAWAN, Philippines (Oct. 2, 2015) – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members board a landing craft air cushion (LCAC), assigned to Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7, as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2016 (PHIBLEX 16). PHIBLEX 16 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy forces with the AFP in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations- from disaster relief, to complex expeditionary operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Will Gaskill/Released)

SOUTH CHINA SEA – The amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) wrapped up a series of strategic amphibious exercises with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX).

PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Navy and Marine forces with the AFP in order to strengthen the interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations – from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

“Our Navy-Marine Corps team is very well integrated at this point, having completed several exercises during this deployment,” said Maj. Ben Reid, Commander, Special Forces Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) of the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, embarked aboard Germantown during the ship’s fall patrol. “Unfortunately, this region suffers from natural disasters regularly. This exercise gave us and our Filipino partners the opportunity to prepare and train so we are all better prepared to assist in potential humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.”

The existing partnership between the U.S. and Philippine armed forces is strengthened by 31 previous PHIBLEX iterations.

“The important thing is supporting our allies and demonstrating our continued commitment to our Filipino partners,” said Reid.

USS Germantown’s maritime role in this exercise lasted one week. During this timeframe, AFP and U.S. Marines practiced combined amphibious exercises while based aboard Germantown. Ship-based amphibious assault vehicle launches to conduct beach assault exercises, and various shore-based military training evolutions were executed, including field training exercises and humanitarian/civic assistance operations.


“I am very impressed with the professionalism and expertise of the AFP Marines. These exercises gave us the opportunity to continue building our partnership and increase our interoperability for responding to humanitarian and disaster relief efforts in the region,” said Commander Gary Harrington, Commanding Officer of the USS Germantown. “This is my third year participating in this exercise and the blue-green team once again excelled, galvanizing our partnership with the AFP.”

For more information about USS Germantown and PHIBLEX, visit www.navy.mil.


https://www.dvidshub.net/news/178721/germantown-completes-phiblex#.Vh5Hv7SFP3g

Vietnam slams China over construction of lighthouses

From the Jakarta Post (Oct 14): Vietnam slams China over construction of lighthouses



In this April 20 file photo, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang points to reveal recent images of China's reclamation activities being done at the disputed islands in the South China Sea during a news conference at Camp Aguinaldo in suburban Quezon city, northeast of Manila, Philippines. (AP/Bullit Marquez)

Vietnam on Wednesday slammed China over its construction of two lighthouses in the disputed South China Sea, saying the move violates Vietnam's sovereignty and escalates tensions.

Chinese state media reported last week that a completion ceremony was held for the lighthouses on Cuateron Reef and Johnson South Reef in the Spratly islands.

The state-run Vietnam News Agency quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Hai Binh as saying the construction "seriously violates Vietnam's sovereignty ... complicates the situation and escalates tensions."He said Vietnam will protest China's actions.

Xinhua says the lighthouses will help improve navigation in the area.

China has launched a massive land reclamation project on reefs in the South China Sea over the last 18 months, raising concerns in the region and in the United States. 

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2015/10/14/vietnam-slams-china-over-construction-lighthouses.html

DVIDS: NMCB 3 builds relationships in Cebu, Philippines

From DVIDS (Oct 13): NMCB 3 builds relationships in Cebu, Philippines

CEBU, Philippines – Seabees, from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3’s Construction Civic Action Detail (CCAD), Philippines, held groundbreaking ceremony to commence construction of a new, two classroom building at Biasong High School in the province of Cebu, Sept. 14.

The ceremony marked the beginning of a three month project in conjunction with the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) Philippines, Armed Forces Philippines (AFP), and the Department of Education Philippines (DepEd) to build classrooms for the students of Biasong High School.
Distinguished Guests included, Lt. Cmdr. James Dohm, NMCB 3 Operations Officer, and Cmdr. Lyndon Ruiz, Civil Military Officer U7, Central Command, Armed Forces Philippines, and local community leaders.

The day kicked off with the project crew and school teachers enjoying a traditional Filipino meal. Construction Electrician 3rd Class Shaqile Read opened the ceremony with a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, followed by Philippine National Anthem and performances of traditional Filipino songs and dances by the school’s children.

"It was a great opportunity for us to interact with the local community and for the community to meet the people that will be building their school to learn what the Seabees do and see the camaraderie between the two nations," said Lt. j.g. Tyler P. Anderson, NMCB 3, CCAD Cebu officer-in-charge.

The guest speakers, Mr. Darwin Cuyos, the School’s Principal, Mr. Ace Binghay, City of Balamban Mayor and Cmdr. Lyndon Ruiz U7, CENTCOM, AFP, all expressed their sincere gratitude toward the U.S. Navy Seabees. Binghay also encouraged the community to join the Seabees in an effort to make this a community experience.

As a Humanitarian Assistance project in conjunction with the Armed Forces Philippines, this project allows the Seabees to assist the community in need, while increasing interoperability with Philippine Forces and building the relationship between the two nations. The new classrooms will provide some relief for the overcrowded school located in a rural area of Cebu that was impacted by Typhoon Haiyan in late 2013. 

The ceremony concluded with leaders of the NMCB 3’s project crew and the distinguished guests breaking the ground, officially beginning the construction process. The groundbreaking ceremony was a communal bonding experience between the locals and the Seabees.

"We are excited to be working alongside the Armed Forces [of the] Philippines,” said Anderson. “They have their own unique skill set which we can learn a lot from and a great opportunity for us to teach them how we do things while building lasting relationships along the way."

The CCAD's mission is to execute engineering civic assistance projects, conduct skills exchanges with the host nation, and perform community relations events to help enhance shared capabilities and maintain relationships.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/178831/nmcb-3-builds-relationships-cebu-philippines#.Vh5GP7SFP3g

Group urges release of 'rebel' jailed for 11 years after Army fails to identify accused

From InterAksyon (Oct 14): Group urges release of 'rebel' jailed for 11 years after Army fails to identify accused



Former political prisoner Andrea Rosal and Eduardo Serrano, who has been detained for 11 years on charges filed against him as alleged NPA commander 'Rogelio Villanueva.' (photo from Karapatan)

A human rights organization is urging the Quezon City regional trial court to free a political prisoner detained for 11 years after Army witnesses flubbed their testimony at a hearing Tuesday to establish his identity.

Eduardo Serrano was arrested in 2004 and identified by the military as alleged Mindoro New People’s Army commander “Rogelio Villanueva.”

He was charged with multiple murder, frustrated murder, robbery, multiple frustrated murder, and kidnapping over a rebel ambush in March 2003 but it was only this year that the Court of Appeals ruled that his real identity must be established first before the criminal case can be heard.

Tuesday’s hearing at QC RTC branch 98 was supposed to settle the identity question, said Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan, but “the prosecution filed a motion for reconsideration to allow them to present witnesses, and the court allowed it.” 

However, Palabay said, the first prosecution witness, Major Alex Dalingay Ampati, former commander of Bravo Company of the 68th Infantry Battalion, admitted that Serano’s name was not in the affidavit he submitted in court, only in an “order of battle” of 68 supposed rebels in his unit’s area of operations that he was given by an intelligence unit.

Not only did Ampati not know either Villanueva or Serrano, said Palabay, his admission of the order of battle’s existence “proved that people merely suspected to be ‘enemies’ of the state are targets for neutralization, whether through extrajudicial killing, disappearance, torture and in this case, illegal arrest and detention."

Despite military denials, such orders of battle, many of which include the names not only of rebels but of activists and members of legal organizations, there is sufficient documentation, including that of international rights experts, on the existence of such lists and on the fates of many of those named in the documents.

On the other hand, Palabay said, the judge hearing the case ordered the second witness, Sergeant Berlin Farinas, off the stand for falsely claiming three times, on questioning, that his testimony about seeing Villanueva, who he said was the same man accused in court, commanding the rebels in 2003 was in his affidavit.

"What if I said it was never in your affidavit? Why did you tell this court it was in your affidavit if it really wasn't?" Palabay quoted the judge as saying.

The court will decide on Serrano’s identity on October 22.

In calling for Serrano’s release, Palabay likened his case to that of Rolly Panesa, a security guard from Negros Occidental who was arrested in Quezon City on October 12, severely tortured and then presented by the military as alleged Southern Luzon rebel leader “Benjamin Mendoza,” in a case that was extensively followed by InterAksyon.com.

Although he was ordered released almost a year later by the Court of Appeals, who ruled his case one of “mistaken identity,” the military attempted to again file charges against him and even handed out the P5.6-million bounty for “Mendoza.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/118905/group-urges-release-of-rebel-jailed-for-11-years-after-army-fails-to-identify-accused

Abu Sayyaf Group shows Western hostages in new video

From the Long War Journal (Oct 13): Abu Sayyaf Group shows Western hostages in new video (by Caleb Weiss)

1

Abu Sayyaf Group militants with the hostages

The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a Philippines-based jihadist group, has released a new English-language video showing three Westerners and a Filipina who are being held as hostages. The three Westerners, two Canadians and one Norwegian, plead to their governments for help in their release.

The video begins with Canadian Robert Hall saying, “To my family and friends, I am okay. But I am in grave danger. I encourage you please to contact the Canadian government and ask them, plead with them to work with the Philippine government to stop the bombings and the problems here.” The video then shifts to Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, who says he was the owner of a marina in the country. He then says, “Please meet their demands, or else we will be possibly dead.”

The other Canadian, John Ridsdel, is then forced to speak to the camera. He confirms that the group was taken from the Ocean View Marina in Samal in the province of Davao. He then proclaims that he “urges the Canadian government to please help us.” He says they can do this by working with the Philippine government to “stop the operations that have been going on.” Ridsdel mentions mortar fire, airstrikes, and other military operations directed against the Abu Sayyaf Group. The Filipina hostage does not speak in the video.

A masked man then speaks to the camera to “deliver a message to the Canadian government and the Philippine government.” The jihadist outlines requirements for the two governments before any negotiations can begin to secure the release of the hostages. “Number one, there must be no military operation and there must be no artillery attack and all that is harmful against us,” he says.

The four were kidnapped by ASG last month from the aforementioned Ocean View Marina in Samal. According to local authorities, the marina’s surveillance cameras caught the gunmen walking the hostages to a jetty before escaping. The Philippine president, Benigno Aquino, said last month that “our security sector will not stop until they catch this group.”

ASG has a long history of taking hostages in southeast Asia. Last year, two German nationals were kidnapped by ASG near Malaysia. The Germans joined two other European hostages before being released last October. Additionally, in April 2000, ASG kidnapped 19 people in Malaysia before taking them back to their base in Sulu, Philippines. In 2001, the Philippine government rescued an American hostage taken by ASG after the group threatened to kill him. A month later, ASG kidnapped 20 individuals from a resort on the island of Palawan. It is also thought that ASG has kidnapped 20 reporters since the year 2000.

In the past, the ASG has had ties to al Qaeda. In June, a master ASG bomb maker who was thought to have been killed in a drone strike in North Waziristan, Pakistan, turned up in the Philippines. The operative, Abdul Basit Usman, is wanted by the United States for his involvement in multiple bombings in the Philippines and also has ties to Jemaah Islamiyah, an al Qaeda-linked group in Southeast Asia.

ASG was funded and financed by Mohammed Jamal Khalifa, one of Osama bin Laden’s brother-in-laws, according to Khaddafy Janjalani, the leader of Abu Sayyaf before he was killed in 2006.
Khalifa, an al Qaeda financier and facilitator, was killed by US special operations forces in Madagascar in 2006. But ASG distanced itself from al Qaeda when, last July, Isnilon Hapilon, a top leader in the group, swore allegiance to Abu Bakr al Baghdadi, the emir of the Islamic State. However, its current relationship with the Islamic State is unclear.

Masked jihadist speaking to the camera:

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[Caleb Weiss is an intern at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a contributor to The Long War Journal.]
 

Army warns politicians vs NPA extortion activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): Army warns politicians vs NPA extortion activities 

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is warning politicians here and the neighboring areas against possible extortion demands from New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the run-up to the campaign period for the May 2016 local and national elections.

Col. Ronald Villanueva, commander of the Army’s 1002nd Brigade, said they received reports that NPA units in the area have already been preparing to send feelers to local politicians or candidates for the payment of the so-called permits-to-campaign (PTC) fees.

He said they earlier recovered documents allegedly coming from the rebels that detailed their plans in the area for the campaign period, which will begin on January 10 next year.

“It included a list of their targeted politicians and the amount that they will demand,” he said in a radio interview.

Villanueva said they already talked to some of the personalities who were named in the list and warn them about the matter.

He said they advised them to not give in to the rebels’ demands and immediately report to authorities any feelers or payment demands that they will receive.

The 1002nd Brigade’s area of responsibility or operation covers this city and parts of Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Davao Occidental, Davao del Sur and South Cotabao.

In the previous elections, military officials had confirmed that some local candidates received demands from the NPA for the payment of PTC fees in exchange for access to campaign in some remote areas parts during the campaign period.

In Sarangani, a number of politicians had received feelers for PTC fees, which reportedly ranged from P20,000 to P200,000 for candidates vying for municipal, district and provincial elective posts.

To counter these activities, Villanueva said they have intensified their security operations in remote communities to properly monitor the movements of NPA rebels, specifically the guerrilla fronts of its Far South Mindanao Regional Command.

He said the move is also aimed to stop the extortion activities of the rebels among local residents.

The rebels have been allegedly preying on poor residents by way of forced monetary and material contributions, he said.

“They have been victimizing ordinary, poor folks by demanding rice and food supplies. Some of them were forced to give monetary contributions ranging from P500 to P2,000,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815015

PNP submits video of Samal kidnap victims for verification

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): PNP submits video of Samal kidnap victims for verification
 
The Philippine National Police (PNP) submitted for verification the video of the three foreigners and Filipina snatched by armed men from the Holiday Ocean View Resort that surfaced in the video-sharing site Youtube dated Oct. 12.

PNP 11 spokesperson Antonio Rivera, however, did not confirm if they were indeed the Canadian nationals John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Filipina Maritess Flor. He only hinted that the persons sitting on the ground surrounded by 12 heavily armed men looked like the abduction victims.

Rivera said the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) could not confirm the truthfulness of the video. However, he said if it was authentic, at least there was one proof that the victims were alive.

“SITG did not receive any reports of any demand,” Rivera told reporters during the AFP-PNP press conference on Wednesday at Royal Mandaya Hotel. He added that there was no communication of sort with the owners of the resort from the abductors.

Rivera said it was not only the SITG that investigated the Samal abduction incident but there were other units working on it.

Rivera would not also confirm there was a standing Php 3 billion demand for the release of the victims and a USD 2 million for the proof of life.

In the video, the 3 foreigners appealed for government authorities to stop military operations against the gunmen. Introducing himself as Robert Hall, he said he was okay but in grave danger. Hall then appealed to his family and the Canadian government to ask the Philippine government to stop the bombings.

The second person who introduced himself as Sekkingstad appealed to the owner of the resort to “please meet their demands or else we will be possibly dead”. Sekkingstad, who was the manager of Ocean View, is the brother-in-law of the resort owner.

It was the third person, Ridsdel, asked for the stoppage of the artillery fires and overhead flights near them. One of the 12 armed men was holding the head of Ridsdel with the other hand holding a machete.

In the same video, another armed man with fully-covered face and sporting sunglasses repeated demand to halt military operations in order to start negotiations for the safe release of the four victims.

Speaking in English with a bit of twang slang read a message to the Canadian and Philippine governments for their cooperation and meet all requirements such as stoppage of military operations, no artillery attacks then negotiations and demands can start.

They then all chanted “takbir” after reading the message.

According to military sources, the military operation in the area since Oct. 8 was aimed at Abu Sayyaf leader Radullan Sahiron, who was reported involved in the kidnapping three Americans in 2001 and has a million bounty in his head.

The head of the 10th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office, Col. Norman Zuniega, said that only the technical people could say if the video was authentic.

Zuniega also would not confirm if there is an ongoing military operation in the area, saying, “I do not know the operational tempo in the area. Only the command on the ground knows about it.”

Zuniega, however, said it was but normal for government forces to put pressure against any terrorist groups.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=815092

Operations to rescue Samal Island kidnap victims to continue - Malacanang

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): Operations to rescue Samal Island kidnap victims to continue - Malacanang

The government will continue its quest for the three foreigners and a Filipino who were abducted by gunmen in a resort in Samal Island in southern Philippines last September, a Palace official said Wednesday.

This, even as a video of the victims and their captors was posted online recently demanding for the government to stop the operations against the group.

"Government's aim is to ensure their safety and secure their release and all actions emanate from this," Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement.

Authorities have identified the victims as Canadian John Ridsdel, 68; and Robert Hall, 50; resort owner Kjartan Sekkingstad,56, a Norwegian; and Filipino Marites Flor, Hall's girlfriend. They were kidnapped last September 21.

The victims were shown on the video sitting on the ground and surrounded by at least eight men who are holding high-powered guns, with one also holding a big knife.

The foreigners spoke on the video appealing to the military to stop the operations against the kidnappers.

One of the gunmen also spoke, in English, reiterating their demand.

Authorities maintain that they have not determined the group behind the kidnapping nor do they know the whereabouts of the victims.

Army's 602nd Brigade spokesperson Captain Antonio Bulao was quoted as saying that their operations in Jolo last October 8 was against Abu Sayyaf leader Radullan Sahiron, who is in the US government's terrorists list.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815010

AFP refuses to comment on video of Samal Island abduction victims

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): AFP refuses to comment on video of Samal Island abduction victims

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday declined to comment on the video circulating on the Internet showing the abduction of three foreigners and a Filipina in Samal Island last Sept. 21.

"The Armed Forces and the police as of the moment cannot comment on this until such time that we have fully evaluated the video and the other relevant information that we have at hand on the matter," AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said during a press briefing Wednesday.

He said military teams are now evaluating the video in order to "thoroughly assess what we can get out of it and any matter that can be deduced from it."

The video also show a flag apparently of the terrorist group ISIS on the background, but Padilla refused to comment on its authenticity until the AFP has finished its assessment.

Padilla declined to give details on the ongoing operations aimed at rescuing the victims as this could put at risk the lives of pursuing government security forces and the abducted civilians.

He also declined to identify the group behind the kidnapping.

"We cannot comment on the identity of the group, as of now they remain unidentified, they have not named themselves and as you have seen in the video, their faces have been covered so that lends a little bit more challenge to those who are doing the assessment," he pointed out.

"The positive thing that we derived from this video is that the kidnap victims are in good health, appeared, seems to be and that is as far as we are concerned, part of the good news that we got out it," Padilla added.

The abduction took place on Sept. 21 at around 11:30 p.m. The victims were identified as Canadians John Ridsel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, the resort manager, and a still unidentified Filipina.

Reports said the suspects were speaking in English and Filipino when they snatched the victims.

Two Japanese tourists tried to stop the bandits but failed.

At the time of the raid, 30 or more foreigners were at the resort.

Joint forces from Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao Philippine Coast Guard and the 10th Infantry Division are now conducting pursuit operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815023

4th ID opens door for Candidate Soldier's Course

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): 4th ID opens door for Candidate Soldier's Course

The 4th Infantry Division announced that individuals, aged to 18 to 26-years-old, are welcome to apply for the Candidate Soldier's Course (CSC) which will start Oct. 16.

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, 4th Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said interested persons can proceed and apply to their headquarters in Camp Evangelista, Patag town, Cagayan De Oro.

Applicants must bring the following: transcript of record (original & photocopy), at least two 2x2 ID picture with white background, NSO birth certificate (original and photocopy) and any valid ID, and diploma.

Applicants are also advised to take the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test as one of the requirements for application.

Around 200 Candidate Soldiers are allocated to the 4th Infantry Division.

The tentative date of oath taking for the next CSC will be on June 1, 2016.

This will give the applicants ample time to prepare themselves physically and emotionally as this will be their transition from civilian to soldier.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815044

AFP not negotiating with bandit group behind Samal Island abduction

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): AFP not negotiating with bandit group behind Samal Island abduction

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will not negotiate with the armed group who abducted three foreigners and one Filipina in a resort in Samal Island last month.

"The policy of government as well as others who have been in this kind of situation is that there is no negotiation that can be made with any of those perpetrating this crime," AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said Wednesday.

Padilla made the statement when asked on whether the government is willing to negotiate with the bandits for the safe release of the four kidnap victims.

"As far as we are concerned, (this none negotiation rule) applies (to all cases)," Padilla pointed out.

The abduction incident took place before midnight on September 21. The victims were identified as Canadians John Ridsel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, the resort manager, and an unidentified Filipina.

Reports said the suspects were speaking in English and Filipino when they snatched the victims.

Two Japanese tourists tried to stop the bandits but failed.

At the time of the raid, 30 or more foreigners were at the resort.

Joint forces from Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao Philippine Coast Guard and the 10th Infantry Division are now conducting pursuit operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815034

Giving in to NPA's PTC, PTW detrimental to May 2016 elections,says military officer

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): Giving in to NPA's PTC, PTW detrimental to May 2016 elections,says military officer

Giving in to the New People's Army (NPA) permit to campaign (PTC) and permit to win (PTW) will have detrimental effects on the coming 2016 May elections.

This was stressed by 4th Infantry Division public affairs office chief Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez Wednesday.

"PTC and PTW are illegal and are not sanctioned by our legitimate and duly established government. It is a violation of section 10 Para C of Article IX of the 1987 Philippine Constitution that states that 'Bona fide' candidates for any public office shall be free from any form of harassment and discrimination,” he added.

Martinez said this likewise breeds the idea of corruption.

"Since aspiring politicians are being forced to pay these amounts to the NPAs, they may think of getting back the same amount from their public funds that would be entrusted in their office if they won in the election," he disclosed.

Similarly, this kills the hopes and dreams of millions of Filipinos for this undermines the capability of some aspiring political leaders, especially the poor, who also want to hold a public office but cannot afford to pay the demand of the NPAs.

"Thus, PTC and PTW violates our right to suffrage and makes our electoral process a laughing stock because it is the exact opposite of having a democratic government that is a government by the people, of the people and for the people," Martinez pointed out.

For the NPAs, the more politicians duped, more money to collect, more opportunities to sow threat.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815076

Army personnel reaffirm commitment to public service

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14): Army personnel reaffirm commitment to public service

Officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Army (PA) reaffirmed their commitment to highest standards of public service during the 25th anniversary of AFP Code of Ethics Day.

The 25th AFP Code of Ethics Day celebration coincided with the 24th founding anniversary of the Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability (OESPA) Monday.

Army personnel recited the Oath of Adherence to the AFP Code of Ethics during the celebration, PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said in a message Wednesday.

Army commander Lt. Gen. Eduardo M. Año congratulated the OESPA staff headed by Army Vice Commander Major Gen. Demosthenes C. Santillan, for their remarkable accomplishments in promoting accountability among Army personnel.

He further urged everyone to always observe and practice the sense of public accountability.

"I challenge everyone to cultivate an unyielding desire to practice the tenets and follow the ethical, legal and moral service embodied in the AFP Code of Ethics. Strive to develop a character where integrity and accountability are inherent," Año said.

Plaques of recognition were awarded to the Civil Military Operations Group, 5th Infantry Division, 8th Infantry Division, and Army Reserve Command who have complied with the conduct of intensive and sweeping division-wide information and education drive on the AFP Code of Ethics, Graft and Corruption Prevention, Spiritual Enlightenment, and other OESPA related activities.

The drafter of this year's anniversary theme, "Disiplinado at Matapat na Kawal Kaakibat ng Hukbong Katihan Tungo sa Matuwid na Daan," Sgt. Hilda Abaya of the 4th Infantry Division, also received a Plaque of Recognition.

"As we renew our pledge, let us bear in mind that this gesture is beyond promise. We must go beyond the propensity to take this lightly and forget all about it after a few days. It must, instead be our conviction not only because the Filipino expect much from us, but also because we want to be part of the transformation that the Army is pursuing," Año said.

Meanwhile, in its 24 years, OESPA continues to pursue and promote accountability and nurture moral consciousness within the Army organization.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=815002