What revolutionary justice? It’s plain murder, HRW tells NPA

From Rappler (Oct 28): What revolutionary justice? It’s plain murder, HRW tells NPA

The New People's Army should 'end this charade of unjust people's courts and cease all executions,' says Human Rights Watch   

The New People’s Army’s execution of a mayor and his son broke international humanitarian law and is “plain murder,” the New York-based Human Rights Watch said Tuesday, October 29.

The communist guerrillas have claimed responsibility for the killing of Mayor Dario Otaza of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, and his 27-year-old son Daryl, calling the act “revolutionary justice” for Otaza’s alleged close ties with the military.

Posing as law enforcement agents, the rebels raided the Otaza home in Butuan City on October 19 and abducted the mayor and his son. Their bodies were found a day after in a village about 12 kilometers away from the city.

“The killing of the Otazas – like other NPA executions – is just plain murder,” said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “The NPA’s actions and claims of revolutionary justice handed down by people’s courts are flagrant violations of international law.”

Human Rights Watch said that the NPA is “obligated to abide by international humanitarian law, including common article 3 to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and its Second Additional Protocol of 1977 (Protocol II), to which the Philippines is party.”

 

This law “prohibits killing civilians, mistreating anyone in custody, and convicting anyone in proceedings that do not meet international fair trial standards. Article 6 of Protocol II specifies that criminal courts must be independent and impartial, and the accused shall have ‘all necessary rights and means of defense,’ among other guarantees,” the group added.

The rebels said the Otazas assisted the military in displacing indigenous communities in the region and torturing children, and that father and son masterminded the killing of at least 3 people.

“Claims by the NPA that defendants receive a fair hearing during its people’s court proceedings are not supported by the facts,” Human Rights Watch said. Philip Alston, the former United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions who investigated extrajudicial killings in the Philippines in 2007, described the people’s courts as “either deeply flawed or simply a sham.”

Human Rights Watch said the NPA is also responsible for the following murders:

April 21, 2014: NPA rebels shot and killed Mayor Carlito Pentecostes Jr. of Gonzaga town, Cagayan province.

July 27, 2012: NPA rebels killed Datu Causing Ogao, a leader of an indigenous people’s group, in Davao City.

February 28, 2011: NPA rebels killed Jeffrey Nerveza, a civilian, in Albay, Bicol.

August 19, 2011: the NPA killed Raymundo “Monding” Agaze in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.

July 13, 2010: NPA members shot and killed Mateo Biong, Jr., a former mayor of Giporlos town, Eastern Samar.

July 2010: NPA rebels shot and killed Sergio Villadar, a sugar cane farmer, in Escalante City, Negros Occidental.

“By resorting to vigilantism in the name of justice, the NPA is only serving to harm its own demands for justice for victims of military human rights violations,” Robertson said. “The NPA should end this charade of unjust ‘people’s courts’ and cease all executions.”

The NPA is behind Asia's longest running insurgency.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/110888-npa-murder-human-rights-watch

Misuari subject to perpetual disqualification for not filing election fund statement

From MindaNews (Oct 28): Misuari subject to perpetual disqualification for not filing election fund statement

Nur Misuari, founding chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and former governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is among 361 Mindanawons who are subject to perpetual disqualification from holding public office for failure to file the required Statement of Contribution and Expenditures (SOCE) in the last two or three elections.

Misuari failed to file his SOCE in the past three elections where he ran for Sulu Governor in 2007 and 2010 and for ARMM Governor in 2013, according to a list released by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on October 23.

Misuari served as governor of the ARMM from September 30, 1996 to November 24, 2001 when he was arrested off Sabah for illegal entry, two days before the ARMM election where Parouk Hussin, also of the MNLF, was elected Governor. Misuari is presently in hiding after a warrant for his arrest was issued in connection with the Zamboanga City stand-off in September 2013.

The Comelec released the “list of candidates subject to perpetual disqualification due to 2nd and 3rd failure to file SOCE,” involving 752 candidates nationwide who ran for various posts in past elections.

MindaNews counted 361 Mindanawons on the Comelec list released on October 23: 189 in the ARMM, seven in Caraga, 21 in Region 9 (Zamboanga region) including five from Isabela City which was included in the ARMM list; 67 in Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), 18 in Region 11 (Davao region) and 59 in Region 12 (Southwestern Mindanao or popularly referred to as Soccsksargen after the names of the member provinces and cities). See list at http://www.comelec.gov.ph/?r=CampaignFinance/CandidatewhoFiletheirSOCETwoorMoreElections

Commissioner Lui Tito Guia told MindaNews in a text message that “there will be notice and hearings” before the perpetual disqualification.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said “an action will be filed to perpetually disqualify them.” He said a petition will be filed pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 991; Rule 25 of Comelec rules of procedure. Hearings will be conducted, Jimenez told MindaNews in a text message Tuesday.

According to the Comelec website, the legal basis for requiring candidates and parties to submit “full, true and itemized” SOCEs in relation to their electoral campaigns is found in Section 107 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC) and punishable as an election offense under Section 262 of the OEC.

“While this has been repealed by Section 39 of RA 7166 and consequently decriminalized and is no longer an election offense, Section 14 of RA 7166 still requires the filing of SOCEs,” the Comelec said.

Section 14 states that every candidate and treasurer of the political party shall, within 30 days after the day of the election, file in duplicate with the offices of the Commission the full, true and itemized statement of all contributions and expenditures in connection with the election.

No person elected to any public office can assume his/her post until he/she submits the SOCE. The same prohibition applies if the political party which nominated the winning candidate fails to file the SOCE within the prescribed period..

Except candidates for elective barangay office, failure to file the statements or reports in connection with electoral contributions and expenditures shall constitute an administrative offense for which the offenders shall be liable to pay fines ranging from PhP1,000.00) to PhP30,000.00), at the discretion of the Commission.

The fine shall be paid within 30 days from receipt of notice of failure “otherwise, it shall be enforceable by a writ of execution issued by the Commission against the properties of the offender,” the Comelec said.

City and municipal election registrars are mandated to advise in writing, by personal delivery or registered mail, within five days from the date of election all candidates residing in his/her jurisdiction to comply with their obligation to file their SOCE.

For the second or subsequent failure to file SOCEs, the administrative fine shall be from PhP 2,000.00 to PhP 60,000.00 at the discretion of the Comelec. Aside from the fine, “the offender shall be subject to perpetual disqualification to hold public office.”

The Comelec also said that “regardless of the results of the elections, or even if the candidates or parties concerned did not receive any contribution or make any expenditure, they should still submit their SOCEs reflecting such fact.”

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2015/10/28/misuari-subject-to-perpetual-disqualification-for-not-filing-election-fund-statement/

3rd ID now training 180 soldier recruits

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 28): 3rd ID now training 180 soldier recruits

The Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division on Wednesday announced it has started the training of 180 brand-new soldier recruits.

Major Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said these individuals are now undergoing Candidate Soldier Course and Jungle Warfare and Mountain Operations Course.

The recruits came from the different provinces of Western and Central Visayas.

They will undergo a six-month rigid training at the Division Training School for them to have a basic foundation expected of a soldier of the Philippine Army (PA).

Tiongson said the ongoing training will instil discipline and make the candidate soldiers to be adept in military doctrines, policies and standing operating procedures.

They will also learn skills in basic weapons and Army techniques, tactics and procedures in order to prepare them to perform duties in the Infantry Squad.

The training will also transform them to become reliable, responsive and committed enlisted personnel of the PA.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=820292

US in close communications with Beijing over South China Sea tensions

From the Philippine News Agency/Sputnik (Oct 28): US in close communications with Beijing over South China Sea tensions

The United States is keeping in close contact with Chinese officials regarding tensions that have erupted over the US military sending a warship in the South China Sea, US State Department Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP) spokesperson Katrina Adams told Sputnik.

"We [the United States] are in close communication with the [Chinese] Ministry of Foreign Affairs and have had a number of discussions on this issue," Adams said on Tuesday when asked to comment on reports that China summoned the US Ambassador over the South China Sea patrol.

Earlier on Tuesday, China accused the United States of threatening the country’s security, when Washington sailed the USS Lassen within 12 nautical miles of the Spratly Islands.

The State Department could not provide more details because it does not comment on the content of diplomatic conversations, Adams added.

US officials claimed the move was intended to ensure freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

On Tuesday, the US Department of Defense said it would continue such naval exercises in the region.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=820344

U.S. to continue navigation operation in South China Sea: Carter

From the Philippine News Agency/Kyodo (Oct 28): U.S. to continue navigation operation in South China Sea: Carter
 

U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter indicated Tuesday that the United States will continue its freedom of navigation operation, the day after the U.S. Navy sent a guided-missile destroyer to within what China claims to be territorial waters around its man-made islands in the South China Sea.

At a meeting of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Carter said, "We will fly, sail and operate wherever international law permits and whenever our operational needs require."

Although declining to comment on a particular operation, Carter acknowledged a U.S. naval patrol in the region as widely reported in the media, saying, "there have been naval operations in that region in recent days."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=820343

CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER // Lumads Secure School after Arson Threats by NPA

From DWDD, the AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 27): CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER // Lumads Secure School after Arson Threats by NPA

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City (DWDD) – After receiving arson threat from the NPA, the Lumad residents of Brgy White Kulaman, Kitaotao, Bukidnon led by its village chief, Hon Felipe Cabugnason and the Tribal council, are safeguarding the former MISFI school building that was closed down by the Lumads after learning that their children are radicalized by the volunteer teachers.

On Oct 25, they spotted 5 suspicious looking persons in the peripheries of Dao Sub village, prompting the Lumads to secure the building which operated as a school without DEPED authorization.

The building was constructed by Lumads in 2013 after being convinced that MISFI organizers will secure a permit from DEPED.

“No request for accreditation was submitted to DEPED in the past two years,” said Felipe Cabugnason who coordinated with DEPED for its closure on Friday (Oct 28).

Col Jesse Alvarez, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade said, “The military will thwart any attempt by the NPA to burn down the school by conducting security operations in the area.”

Meanwhile, at 3pm today, DEPED Region 10 officials led by Mr Edilberto L. Oplenaria, Schools Division Superintendent together with Mr Nestor Montejo, Principal of White Kulaman Integrated School, inspected the building to ascertain media reports that local villages razed it to the ground.

DEPED has assured that school children who were previously enrolled in the illegally operated school will be accepted at the White Kulaman Integrated School. 4DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/clear-and-present-danger-lumads-secure-school-after-arson-threats-by-npa/

AFP Statement On the UP Incident

From DWDD the AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 27): AFP Statement On the UP Incident



Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, (DWDD)–The AFP acknowledges that there were AFP personnel inside the premises of the University of the Philippines recently.

 They were there on a legitimate national security operation. University students and members of the UP faculty were not the subject of that operation as alleged by some quarters.

 

 It was a transparent operation that was properly coordinated with the local police. Likewise, there was no intent to violate the existing 1989 agreement between the DND and UP.

 

 The AFP humbly apologizes for the incident and assures the public and the UP that any inconvenience that arose out of this incident is not intentional.  We will work to ensure that this does not happen again.

 

 Our security operations are all done in the best interest of our people and that these are pursued so as to prevent crimes and terroristic acts against our citizens.

 

 As the legitimate and constitutionally mandated protectors of our people, the AFP is committed to maintain the highest levels of honor, professionalism and dedication in its rank because we know that we are accountable to our people.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/afp-statement-on-the-up-incident/

NPA attacks farm, Army detachment in North Cotabato

From the Philippine Star (Oct 27): NPA attacks farm, Army detachment in North Cotabato



New People's Army guerillas intimidate business owners to collect "protection money."  Philstar.com/File photo

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines - Communist rebels on Saturday night set on fire two prime mover trucks of a banana farm and fired at a nearby Army detachment in separate attacks in Makilala, North Cotabato.

The police said New People’s Army (NPA) guerillas simultaneously attacked the Dole Stanfilco Cavendish banana farm and the detachment of the Army’s 39^th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Luna Sur, causing panic among villagers.

It was the second NPA attack at the same banana plantation in just two years.

Chief Inspector Elias Colonia of the Makilala municipal police said the NPAs disarmed two of the firm’s security guards and took with them their firearms, a gauge 12 shotgun and a .38 caliber revolver, as they escaped towards a nearby hinterland.

The NPAs who fired assault rifles at the Army detachment nearby scampered away when soldiers returned fire.

Barangay folks are convinced the NPAs attacked the banana farm to force its owner into paying “protection money” on a monthly basis.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/10/27/1515413/npa-attacks-farm-army-detachment-north-cotabato

UP law students push writ of amparo vs ‘AFP spies’

From the Philippine Star (Oct 27): UP law students push writ of amparo vs ‘AFP spies’



The UP College of Law Student Government called on the AFP to immediately cease all of its surveillance and military operations within the premises of the university “to prevent any further violations of the academic freedom of the University and the right to security of the members of the academic community.” File photo

The University of the Philippines College of Law Student Government (LSG) has recommended seeking a writ of amparo following the discovery of military intelligence officers in UP’s campus in Diliman, Quezon City.

In a statement, the UP LSG urged the university student council to examine the possibility of filing a petition for a writ of amparo for and in behalf of all students of the university.

A writ of amparo is a remedy available to any individual whose right to life, liberty and security has been violated or threatened with violation by an unlawful act.

The statement was released days after members of the UP Diliman police apprehended members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for conducting an unauthorized operation in the campus.

The incident alarmed the UP Diliman administration, with chancellor Michael Tan urging the military to honor an agreement with the Department of National Defense that prohibits the presence of military and police personnel inside the university without prior permission.

The UP LSG called on the AFP to immediately cease all of its surveillance and military operations within the premises of the university “to prevent any further violations of the academic freedom of the University and the right to security of the members of the academic community.”

“If this call is unheeded, we urge the University of the Philippines administration to take appropriate legal steps to ensure the preservation of its academic freedom,” it added.

They said the presence of the military within the campus without a bona fide necessity violates the fundamental right of each member of the academic community to be secure in his or her person.

“The unexplained presence of military elements promotes a climate of fear in the campus and suffocates the distinct spirit of freedom, activism, and civic-mindedness that permeates Diliman,” said the UP LSG.

“Without a disclosed threat to national security, the military’s presence unreasonably prevents students, faculty, and staff from carrying on with their daily lives. More disturbingly, the apparent surveillance operations being conducted by the apprehended military personnel threaten the personal security of its targets,” it added.

Retired Army Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan is on trial for kidnapping in connection with the disappearance of UP students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan in 2006.

Earlier this year, a witness testified that Palparan was behind the torture and rape of the two students.

http://www.philstar.com/metro/2015/10/27/1515241/law-students-push-writ-amparo-vs-afp-spies

'Balance of power,' Aquino says of US ship in West PH Sea

From Rappler (Oct 27): 'Balance of power,' Aquino says of US ship in West PH Sea

'I see no issue as to this US Navy ship traversing under international law in waters that should be free to be traveled upon by any country,' the Philippine leader says in welcoming the move



FOCAP. President Benigno Aquino III answers questions from members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Tuesday, October 27. Photo by Camille Elemia/Rappler

President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday, October 27, welcomed the sailing of a US warship near islands claimed by China in the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), calling it a "balance of power."

Responding to questions at the annual Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines' (FOCAP) presidential forum, Aquino said any country has the right to traverse the region based on international norms. (READ: US warship sails near islands claimed by China)

“I see no issue as to this US Navy ship traversing under international law in waters that should be free to be traveled upon by any country,” Aquino said, when asked about the USS Lassen's operation on Tuesday morning.

He added: "So long as everybody conforms to established international rules and laws, then I don’t think the Philippines should have any negative apprehensions about these acts. And if we say we are in support of freedom of navigation for everybody, then we seek to hamper anybody’s travel, that, I think, seems to be inconsistent."

Asked how he views the US presence in the disputed waters, Aquino said he expects the move to be welcomed not only by the Philippines but other stakeholders as well.

“I think everybody would welcome a balance of power anywhere in the world,” he said.

Guarding vs 'de facto reality'

When asked to explain further, Aquino cited the US position that if the public pronouncements of "one regional supowerpower" are left unchallenged "then this is accepted, and if it is accepted, it becomes de facto the reality on the ground."

"The American passages through these contentious waters is meant precisely to say that there are norms as to what freedom of navigation entails and they intend to exercise, so that there is no de facto changing of the reality on the ground," Aquino said.

The Philippine leader also referred to China's declaration of an Air Defense Identification Zone extending over an area where "there are so many agreements that have been entered into that all countries have been bound to for the longest time."

"When you change something there is general agreement among all parties that are affected, as to what changes would bring about a better regime in terms of travel, it cannot be determined by one entity," Aquino said.

He added: "So the balance of power says that there is not just a single voice that must be adhered to. There has to be a plurality of voices when all parties are affected by changes of the realities on the ground."

'No effect on case vs China'

The US Navy Destroyer navigated within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands being built by China in the disputed waters on Tuesday, which the latter deemed as a violation of their laws.

Aquino shrugged off questions on how the Philippines' support for the presence of the US warship in the disputed waters would affect its arbitration case pending before the international arbitral tribunal in The Hague.

“I think expressing support for established norms of international behavior should not be a negative for country. Let me put in...the reverse: Somebody suddenly changes the rules and are we – how should I put it – we just accept the changing of the rules without any consultations, without any negotiations, without even an agreement is I think the wrong behavior to undertake,” Aquino said.

EDCA

The latest development in the West Philippine Sea has renewed interest in the Philippine-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a military-to-military treaty signed shortly before the visit of US President Barack Obama to the Philippines in 2014.

Aquino, in defense of the controversial agreement, said the Philippines “definitely” needs EDCA, as the country is still in the “period of modernizing the Armed Forces.”

The President said EDCA allows the country to “test equipment” before buying them.

“Akin to test-driving a car as opposed to buying a system trying it out and finding out it is not working. By the time we purchase them, we are more than ready to utilize them,” Aquino said.

Citing the treaty, Aquino said the Philippines would aid the US in case they need logistical support in their operations in the contested waters.

“If you have an ally from the opposite site of the world and we will not support it logistically, how would it make sense?” Aquino said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/110794-aquino-us-defender-south-china-sea-edca

MANILAKBAYAN CARAVAN | 'AFP has 125,000 CAFGU for quelling Lumad schools

From InterAksyon (Oct 26): MANILAKBAYAN CARAVAN | 'AFP has 125,000 CAFGU for quelling Lumad schools



Warm welcome from students of St. Scholastica's College. Photograph from Bayan-NCR.

The Manilakbayan caravan arrived in Manila to drum up wider public awareness of the plight of lumad communities in Mindanao.

The route from Cagayan de Oro City took the caravan across Eastern Visayas, the Bicol Region, and Southern Tagalog, until it reached Manila on Monday.

From Baclaran Church where they stopped to rest on October 25, the protesters proceeded down Taft Avenue and Liwasang Bonifacio to meet up with the contingent organized by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan.



(Above) Students of De La salle University and its sister school, College of Saint Benilde, in a rousing welcome as the caravan makes its way along Taft Avenue.

(Below) Michelle Campos, daughter of a lumad killed in the spate of violence, is greeted by students of UP Manila campus. Photographs from Bayan-NCR.



As they denounced the spate of killings of lumad leaders and a regime of harassment in lumad schools, leaders of the caravan claimed that the administration of President Aquino should be held directly accountable for the deployment of an estimated 125,000 paramilitary Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGUs) to disrupt the operation of lumad schools or tear them down outright.

In his speech during a rally held at historic Mendiola Bridge in Manila, Rius Valle of Save Our Schools underscored that the government of Aquino has a direct hand in closing of schools.

Valle said that, in the Northern Mindanao Region, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), apparently with the tacit approval of the Aquino administration, has deployed scores of thousands of CAFGU and militia in the area.



Near the University of the Philippines campus in Manila (above), the caravan was warmly greeted with a Salubungan – a meet up – at the shrine of Andres Bonifacio across from Manila City Hall.
After a solidarity lunch, the group proceeded to Mendiola for a rally and brief program.

From there, it was onward to the Diliman campus of the University of the Philippines in Quezon City, to spend five days at protest camps hosted by various groups of the university.

Photograph below of UP Diliman welcome by Obet de Castro.



(Below, far right) UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan, PhD, presides over the conferment of a sablay sash on a lumad youngster. Photographed by Vencer Crisostomo.





(Above) The UP varsity basketball team Fighting Maroons spend some quality bonding time with the lumad kids. Photograph from the UP Collegian.

Photographs below, at UP Diliman, by Bernard Testa, InterAksyon.com:









The Kabataan Party-list led various youth and student groups in welcoming the "Manilakbayan" delegation to Manila, echoing the call that the repression of Lumad communities in Mindanao must stop.

Kabataan partylist Representative Terry Ridon said the "lakbayanis" journeyed from Mindanao all the way to Manila to bring the plight of the Lumad and the people of Mindanao to the attention of the national government, "which has – for the large part – acted deaf and mute on the spate of Lumad killings."

Due to the government's failure to address the demands for justice and an end to the militarization of their communities, various Lumad groups and other human rights sectors from Mindanao felt compelled to launch the so-called Manilakbayan Caravan on October 19.

Valle revealed that, ironically, many of these militia members and paramilitary operatives are being prompted to "teach" in the lumad schools that they are seeking to disrupt, apparently with the Department of Education providing training, in some 35 pilot villages in the Northern Mindanao Region.

The attacks on the schools are happening without letup, Valle said further, even as he claimed the government doesn't seem to be lifting a finger to arrest the continuing spiral of impunity in the lumad hinterlands.

Just two days ago, Valle revealed, a Lumad school was forcibly closed by the barangay captain in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, allegedly in coordination with the regional office of the Department of Education (DepEd).

"The perimeter fence was destroyed, the classrooms locked up, and the students threatened that the school will be torn down even if the pupils stayed on," Valle said. "This seems to be a government that pays no mind to what's going on, to the harassment that the lumad youth are being subjected to."

Valle said that a certain Josephine Padol of DepEd ordered the closure of the school on grounds that it was being run by rebels, that it was a rebel school.

Quoting Padol, Valle said, the closed school is to be replaced by an public building to be built by DepEd, and soldiers will be teach the Lumads, instead of by mentors from the education department.

Valle disclosed that from September 2014 to 2015, Save Our School tallied 95 cases of attacks on Lumad schools.

"We call on all youth and students to join us as we host the Lumad and the people of Mindanao, who have traveled all the way to Manila to cry justice and call for the immediate pull-out of military troops in their ancestral domain. Together, let us stand with our Lumad brothers and sisters to stop the killings," Representative Ridon concluded.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/119467/manilakbayan-caravan--afp-has-125000-cafgu-for-quelling-lumad-schools

Improvised bomb found in Lamitan City

From MindaNews (Oct 27): Improvised bomb found in Lamitan City

The police and military foiled a bombing attempt by suspected members by the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan province, an official said Tuesday.

Senior Supt. Oscar Nantes, Basilan police director, said patrolling policemen recovered on Monday night an improvised bomb placed along the road in Rizal Avenue, Lamitan City.

Nantes said an explosives and ordnance demolition team of the military defused the bomb, a cellular phone-triggered explosive, minutes after it was recovered.

Nantes said the bomb, an ammonium nitrate fuel oil type of explosive, was placed in a can of milk rigged with wires and nails as shrapnel.

He said investigation showed the bombing attempt on Monday night was the handiwork of the Abu Sayyaf bandits.

He added that in previous months the kidnap-for-ransom group planted similar bombs in Lamitan City which were also recovered and defused.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force Sulu conducted disruption procedure on an abandoned “suspicious item wrapped in a sack of rice” on Monday night but it turned out to be containing garbage.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, JTGS commander, said the abandoned item was recovered at the back of the a school around 70 meters away from a Marine checkpoint following a report from a pedicab driver around 9:30 p.m. Monday along Airport Road, Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu.

Arrojado said the item might have been intentionally placed near the checkpoint to test the reaction of the Marine troops.

He said the threat of the Abu Sayyaf to stage bombings remains high in Jolo.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2015/10/27/improvised-bomb-found-in-lamitan-city/

Lumad leaders in Caraga fear more reprisal from NPA

From MindaNews (Oct 27): Lumad leaders in Caraga fear more reprisal from NPA

BUTUAN CITY -- A day before the burial of slain Loreto, Agusan del Sur Mayor Dario Otaza and his son, Daryl, Lumad leaders here expressed fears they might suffer the same fate in the hands of the New People’s Army.

Datu Payad Sangkoan Ray Cervantes, chair of the Caraga Regional Council for the Indigenous Peoples, said many Lumad leaders are also making a stand against the NPA like the slain mayor.

Cervantes said Otaza was not the first Lumad leader killed by the rebels for opposing their expansion.

“If the NPA can murder Mayor Otaza who had bodyguards and influence, you can imagine what they will do to Lumad leaders who do not have the same resources,” he said.

He said a report from the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Conference said that 357 Lumad leaders were killed by NPA rebels from 1998 to 2008.

Mayor Otaza and his son, Daryl, were abducted and murdered by NPA rebels who posed as National Bureau of Investigation agents in Butuan City last Oct. 19.

They were scheduled to be buried Wednesday at the Uraya Memorial Gardens here.

Cervantes said many of the Lumad leaders are not armed like the Bagani warriors and have no ties with Datu Calpit Egua and the Tejero brothers who were tagged in the murder of director of a school for Lumad and two of his companions in Surigao del Sur last Sept. 1.

“Many of our leaders are only armed with and antiquated rifles and are no match to the well-armed NPA rebels,” he said.

Some 500 supporters of the slain mayor staged an anti-communist rally at the Guingona Park here on Tuesday.

Displaying placards asking for justice for the slain mayor and his son, the rallyists who were composed mostly of Lumads from Agusan del Sur denounced the NPA rebels for killing the two victims without the benefit of a trial.

“Is this what they call revolutionary justice? They did not even ask the victims to answer the charges that they were accused of,” Datu Makahinlo Gubat Marcos Gonzales said.

The NPA claimed responsibility for killing Otaza and his son “to give justice to the thousands of indigenous peoples and peasants terrorize by their tyranny in Loreto and surrounding municipalities in Agusan Del Sur.”

The rebel group also alleged Daryl was distributing and selling illegal drugs in Agusan del Sur.

Wilfredo Otaza, younger brother of the slain mayor, denied all these accusations. He said his brother was only working for the development of Loreto, a riverside town.

“My brother was murdered without being given the chance to answer these charges,” Wilfredo said.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2015/10/27/lumad-leaders-in-caraga-fear-more-reprisal-from-npa/

MILF defends Bangsamoro agreement before SC

From CNN Philippines (Oct 27): MILF defends Bangsamoro agreement before SC

 

(File photo) MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim chats with President Benigno Aquino III at the ceremonial start of the decommissioning of the rebels

The fight for peace in Mindanao continues.

A senior member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel has the court's permission to defend the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

These are being challenged at the Supreme Court.

In his motion, Datu Michael Mastura wants the four petitions challenging government's deals with the Moros dismissed for lack of merit.

He is asking the high court to restore the status quo ante order and allow the peace process to continue.

Claiming that he is a direct descendant of Sultan Kudarat, Mastura is asking the court to uphold and recognize the birthright of every Moro to ascribe to the Bangsamoro self-identity under the Constitution.

Mastura was joined by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman in today's filing (October 27).

Hataman said the autonomous regional government would file anytime soon a separate motion to intervene in support of the peace deals.

He also said that there is no legal reason to stop the peace process in Mindanao.

MILF legal counsel Naguib Sinarimbo said that legally striking down the peace deals will be more harmful than failing to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

He added that this could result in a renewed armed conflict in the south.

The Supreme Court is currently on break.

The justices will reconvene on November 10 for their full court session, where the motion is expected to be taken up.

http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/10/27/milf-defends-bangsamoro-agreement-before-supreme-court.html

China says it warned U.S. warship in South China Sea

From CNN Philippines (Oct 27): China says it warned U.S. warship in South China Sea



The Gaven Reefs is a group of two reefs in the Spratly Islands, claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam.

China said it warned and tracked a U.S. Navy warship as it came very close to one of its artificial islands in the South China Sea's contested waters.

China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement Tuesday (October 27) that the vessel "illegally entered into the waters of China's Spratly Islands."

"The action taken by the U.S. warship has threatened China's sovereignty and security interest, and has put the safety of personnel on the reefs in danger," the ministry said.

A U.S. defense official told CNN that the destroyer USS Lassen "conducted a transit" within 12 nautical miles of Subi Reef in the Spratly Islands on Tuesday morning local time.

The operation put the ship within an area that would be considered Chinese sovereign territory if the U.S. recognized the man-made islands as being Chinese territory, the official added.

The United States hadn't breached the 12-mile limit since China began massive dredging operations to turn three reefs into artificial islands in 2014 — even though maritime law doesn't usually accord territorial waters to islands built on previously submerged reefs.

Chinese government: Don't push us

On Tuesday, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned of consequences if a country caused trouble or raised tensions in the territories China claims as its own.

"If any country thinks that, through some gimmicks, they will be able to interfere with or even prevent China from engaging in reasonable, legitimate and legal activities in its own territories, I want to suggest those countries give up such fantasy," ministry spokesman Lu Kang said.

"In fact, if relevant parties insist on creating tensions in the region and making trouble out of nothing, it may force China to draw the conclusion that we need to strengthen and hasten the buildup of our relevant capabilities. I advise the U.S. not to create such a self-fulfilling prophecy."

Rival claims

The South China Sea is the subject of numerous rival and often messy territorial claims, with China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam disputing sovereignty of several island chains and nearby waters.

In little more than 18 months, China has reclaimed more than 2,000 acres at three main locations in the Spratly Islands — Subi, Mischief and Fiery Cross reefs, where it's building airstrips thought to be capable of handling bombers.

China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that its activity in the South China Sea didn't affect freedom of navigation by sea or air but said it held "indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly Islands and its nearby waters."

"China is resolutely opposed to any country damaging China's sovereignty and security interest in the name of freedom of navigation and overflight," it said.

In May, a U.S. surveillance plane carrying a CNN crew swooped over the Spratly Islands, triggering eight warnings from the Chinese navy to back off.

Chinese navy ships entered U.S. territorial waters off Alaska in September, coming within 12 miles of the coastline during President Barack Obama's visit to the state, U.S. officials told CNN at the time.

The officials emphasized that China's actions were consistent with "innocent passage" under international maritime law.

'Routine operation'

Another U.S. defense official told CNN that the operation was "routine" and was in accordance with international law.

"We will fly, sail and operate anywhere in the world that international law allows," the official said.

"U.S. Freedom of Navigation operations are global in scope and executed against a wide range of excessive maritime claims, irrespective of the coastal state advancing the excessive claim," the official added.

His comments echoed those of State Department spokesman John Kirby on Monday, who said one country didn't need to consult another "when you are exercising the right of freedom of navigation in international waters."

The rest of the region, wary of China's intentions in the disputed waters, is likely to welcome the U.S. move.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga declined to comment on the operation but said "it was extremely important that the international community work together in order to protect open, free and peaceful ocean."

Australia said it "strongly supports" the rights of all countries to travel through the South China Sea.
Taiwan said it rejected China's claim of sovereignty over the Spratly archipelago and called for dialogue to resolve the dispute peacefully.

Challenge?

Greg Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington said that the U.S. operation was aimed at testing control of the seas, not sovereignty over the disputed islands, and would present a dilemma for China.

"It forces a clarification of China's claims. China's strategy in the South China Sea is one of ambiguity," he said.

Poling said under maritime law, artificial islands were not usually afforded the 12-mile territorial zone, and that the U.S. Navy deliberately chose to send the destroyer near Subi Reef for this reason.

Before China's recent land reclamation, both Subi and Mischief reefs were submerged at high tide, while a sandbar was visible at high-tide at Fiery Cross Reef, which could make its legal status more ambiguous.

"So if Beijing objects by saying to the U.S. you're in our territorial sea, then the U.S. can respond by saying there's no such thing as a territorial sea for an artificial island," Poling said.

He said that the decision to go ahead with the mission follows months of discussion in Washington and likely followed Chinese President Xi Jinping's trip to Washington last month, which made little headway on the South China Sea.

http://cnnphilippines.com/world/2015/10/27/China-warned-U.S.-warship-South-China-Sea.html

Gov't troopers chase NPAs behind attack on Army detachment, banana plantation in N. Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): Gov't troopers chase NPAs behind attack on Army detachment, banana plantation in N. Cotabato

Government troops are in hot pursuit of a band of New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels who allegedly harassed Monday night a military detachment and banana plantation here.

Chief Insp. Elias Colonia, Makilala police chief, said about 30 guerillas armed with high-powered firearms simultaneously attacked around 9 p.m. the detachment of the Philippine Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion and adjacent Dole Stanfilco plantation, both in Barangay Luna Sur.

In the process, the rebels burned two prime mover trucks and disarmed two security guards at the plantation with their issued firearms – a shotgun and two .38-caliber revolver.

The latest occurrence has struck apprehension on the part of local villagers that Dole Stanfilco might shutdown its operation in the area and would result to massive unemployment.

Luna Sur village councilor Virgilio Maambong said over 200 villagers are currently employed at the plantation as field workers.

"This is the second attack within the span of three years against Dole Stanfilco and word reached us that management is fretting on idea to close the firm,” Maambong said.

Last 2013, NPA rebels also torched numerous heavy machineries inside the banana plantation during an attack.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=819911

Army plants 3,000 forest, fruit bearing trees in support to NGP

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): Army plants 3,000 forest, fruit bearing trees in support to NGP

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela -- The soldiers of the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (5ID,PA) based in this town has planted a total of 3,000 forest and fruit bearing trees in a remote village of San Mariano.

Sergeant Jake Lopez from the 5ID, PA, civil military operations battalion, said the planted trees was a joint activity of the Phil. Army, PENRO-Isabela, the local government unit of San Mariano and barangays officials of Casala.

Lopez said this tree planting activity is in support to the national government’s National Greening Program (NGP).

He said army soldiers are not only mandated to secure the sovereignty of the country and defend the territorial waters against invaders but also help in government’s development programs and projects and disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.

He said the army will continue planting more trees in its area of operations to help the government meet its target to plant 1.5 billion trees nationwide.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=819907

PNP Chief: Police to acquire more firearms, equipment, mobility assets; Caraga is top priority

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): PNP Chief: Police to acquire more firearms, equipment, mobility assets; Caraga is top priority

Philippine National Police chief PDGen. Ricardo C. Marquez said during his first regional visit here that the PNP is in the process of procuring more firearms, communication equipment and mobility assets to equip the country’s police force.

The country’s highest police official told the officers and personnel right after the arrival honors accorded by a battalion-size formation in front of the administration building of Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, the regional headquarters of the PNP in this region, that the national police headquarters is in the process of procuring not only short firearms but around 50,000 assault rifles, mobile assets, P100 million worth of communication equipment, patrol shoes and standard uniforms for the police.

According to him, even as he had ordered more of the police personnel to patrol the streets, the PNP had to ensure that they will be provided with the necessary armaments, proper uniforms, communication equipment and mobility.

Marquez said that listed as priority recipients of these assets will be the country’s “most challenged” regions and Caraga is among those in the top of the list.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=819878

Authorities foil ASG bombing plot in Lamitan City

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): Authorities foil ASG bombing plot in Lamitan City

Police and military authorities have foiled a bombing attempt by suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands in Basilan province, an official said Tuesday.

Senior Supt. Oscar Nantes, Basilan police director, said this came after they recovered on Monday night an improvised explosive device (IED) placed along the road along Rizal Avenue, Lamitan City.

Nantes said the explosive ordnance demolition (EOD) of the military disrupted the IED several minutes after it was recovered.

Nantes said the cellphone-triggered IED, which is an ammonium nitrate fuel oil type of explosive, was placed in a can of milk rigged with wires and nails as shrapnel.

He said post-blast investigation showed the bombing attempt was the handiwork of the ASG brigands.

He added the IED they recovered and disrupted Monday night was similar to the ones placed by the ASG brigands in Lamitan City which were safely recovered and disrupted in previous months.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=819988

Army hosts two-day seminar for media practitioners

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): Army hosts two-day seminar for media practitioners

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, GAMU, Isabela -- The 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (5ID, PA) based here hosted a seminar for media practitioners and introduced the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) 2028 inside the Army camp.

The two-day seminar on October 25 to 26 was attended by print and broadcast media personnel from Isabela and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

5ID, PA Commanding Officer Brig. Gen. Lysander Suerte said he values the help of media in cascading information to the public on what Army soldiers are doing in helping the government in its development goals for the welfare of all.

He said the soldiers are committed to transform the PA into a world class Army by 2028 to become a source of national pride.

Atty. Franklin Pagurayan, multi-sectoral advisory board member of 5ID, PA who served as guest speaker, said the importance of communication will clear the doubts and gray areas in knowing the facts in the Army organization.

He cited the great role being contributed by media in information dissemination to apprise the public on what the Army is doing for the people in its area of operations.

The two-day seminar included lectures and outdoor activities like rappelling, firing, golfing and other activities that boosted the camaraderie of media practitioners.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=819912

PAF B-205A up for repairs

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): PAF B-205A up for repairs

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has allocated the sum of Php6,000,000 for the acqusition of spareparts needed for the repair and maintenance of one of its B-205A helicopters

Bid opening is scheduled at Nov. 10, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

The B-205 is the civilian version of the Bell UH-1 Iroquois single-engine military helicopters.

It is type-certificated in the transport category and is used in a wide variety of applications, including crop dusting, cargo lifting and aerial firefighting.

The PAF is known to operate four to six units of the said helicopter.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=819846

SC asked to junk petitions vs. FAB, CAB

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): SC asked to junk petitions vs. FAB, CAB

A senior member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel on Tuesday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to dismiss the petitions against the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

MILF peace panel senior member and former lawmaker Datu Michael Mastura filed an urgent omnibus motion for leave to intervene before the SC in favor of the FAB and the CAB.

In his 82-page petition, Mastura asked the SC to dismiss the petitions opposing the FAB and the CAB for lack of merit.

The assailed petitions were filed by the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA), Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Neri Colminares, among others, questioning the constitutionality of the FAB and the CAB.

Mastura argued that the crafting into law of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) should proceed in order to continue the peace process so that it will serve as a transition process until the conduct of the plebiscite for the BBL.

The petitioner also asked the SC to pave the way for each Muslim to have a self identity based on the so-called "common and distinctive historical and cultural heritage", which is provided for in Section 15, Article 10 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=819971

AFP sorry for deploying personnel in UP, says operation legitimate

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): AFP sorry for deploying personnel in UP, says operation legitimate

The Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) on Tuesday apologized for deploying military men on the premises of the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman last Oct. 21.

However, the military said its operatives were on a legitimate national security operation at that time.

"They were there on a legitimate national security operation. University students and members of the UP faculty were not the subject of that operation as alleged by some quarters," the AFP said in a statement.

It said the operation was properly coordinated with the local police and there was no intent to violate the existing 1989 agreement between the Department of National Defense and UP which prohibits the presence of police and military agents in the campus without notice and approval of the UP administration.

"The AFP humbly apologizes for the incident and assures the public and the UP that any inconvenience that arose out of this incident is not intentional. We will work to ensure that this does not happen again," it added.

"Our security operations are all done in the best interest of our people and that these are pursued so as to prevent crimes and terroristic acts against our citizens," the AFP stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=819980

Naval detachment in Zamboanga City gets funding; Abad: funds for 11 of 13 projects in Zambo rehab already released

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): Naval detachment in Zamboanga City gets funding; Abad: funds for 11 of 13 projects in Zambo rehab already released

More than two years after the siege by a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) on Zamboanga City, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released the funds for all but two projects in the Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R) plan, which includes the building of a Fleet-Marine detachment.

Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said the recent release of Php124.77 million to the Philippine Navy last October 15—for the construction of a Fleet-Marine detachment in Rio Hondo village—makes for 11 out of a total of 13 projects under the Z3R plan with allotment releases.

The Php124.77 million released to the Philippine Navy will cover the building of the detachment in Rio Hondo, the site of the September 2013 siege that shut down Zamboanga City for almost three weeks. This fund was charged against the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund (NDRMMF) and pursuant to the approval of the Office of the President.

The budget chief said the two remaining projects with unreleased funds pertain to the construction of water systems and treatment facilities and the reconstruction of water lines and facilities of Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD).

The total amount of Php527.08 million for the construction of water systems and treatment facilities in various affected villages shall be released to the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) as recommended by the Department of the Public Works and Highways (DPWH), instead of the National Housing Authority (NHA) as initially approved.

The amount of Php27.73 million for the reconstruction of water lines and facilities of the ZCWD was a newly-added project to the Z3R as requested by the DPWH last month. Approval for the release of funds is pending with the Office of the President.

“The National Government faced a number of challenges in implementing ‘Build Back Better’ in the aftermath of the Zamboanga City siege. But we’ve managed to complete the projects for permanent housing and support facilities, repair of school buildings, barangay halls, and sport centers, and road projects,” Abad said.

“Now we’re beginning the construction of the Rio Hondo naval facility, which will not only bolster the recovery in the area, but also strengthen the military operations of our armed forces,” the budget chief added.

In aftermath of the siege, Php3.9 billion was required for the relief and rehabilitation of affected communities based on the estimates of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The Z3R plan addresses the long-term aspects of recovery for Zamboanga City, from the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure to the resettlement of internally displaced people.

In 2014, Php2.6 billion was released to DPWH and NHA to build permanent housing project for affected families. The permanent shelter assistance package funded 6,500 housing units, specifically 4,247 houses on stilts, and 2,253 houses on land (1,893 duplex loftable and 360 two-storey units). An additional Php347.32 million was released for the construction of more houses and support facilities.

Among units completed were those in Martha Drive Subdivision, Paniran Resettlement, St. Peter’s Compound, the Islamic Village, Lustre HOA Subdivision, and the houses on stilts in Mariki and Taluksangay.

For the construction and repair of school buildings affected by the siege, Php120.08 million was released to the Department of Education. At present, repairs were already completed at the Sta. Barbara Central School while procurement in 19 other schools are on-going. Meanwhile, a separate funding of Php31.15 million for the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology had been released for the repair and rehabilitation of academic buildings and facilities.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=820025

U.S. Navy patrols in South China Sea not an issue, says President Aquino

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): U.S. Navy patrols in South China Sea not an issue, says President Aquino

President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Tuesday he sees no issue in the passage of a United States Navy destroyer near man-made islands in the South China Sea, so long as the warship stays within the limits of international waters and has no hostile intention.

The President made the comment on reports that an American warship was on its way to the South China Sea to test the principle of freedom of navigation, during the annual Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) forum, held at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City.

President Aquino said his secretary of defense has informed him that there was no official announcement from the US regarding the particular voyage.

“But the position is, freedom of navigation has been expounded and propounded by all parties to the issues of the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea and everybody seems to be guaranteeing freedom of navigation,” he said.

"So I see no issue as to this US naval ship traversing under international law in waters that should be free to be traveled upon by any non-belligerent country."

Asked if the government supports the US' move in the contested territory, the Chief Executive said the Philippines has raised its concerns about the build-up of islands in the South China Sea.

"We have voiced our concern about the issues that confront the South China Sea in the sense that we have about 40 percent of world trade that has to traverse this particular body of water," he said.

"We have expressed publicly on numerous occasions our concern that any movement through this particular body of water should not be hampered by any entity," he said, adding that the Philippines has even gone to the extent of filing a case at the international arbitral tribunal to resolve the longstanding issue.

He pointed out that the general principle that freedom of navigation should not be impeded applies to everyone, and not just the Americans.

The President further said that the US could do more patrols in the area, so long as its activity conforms with international law and does not intend to provoke anyone.

Asked if the Philippines’ support for the US patrols would affect its case in the international tribunal, President Aquino said that expressing support for the established norms of international behavior should not negatively affect the country.

Changing the rules without any consultation, negotiation, or agreement is the wrong behavior to undertake, he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=820129

DND still to confirm reports US ship patrolled off Spratly Islands

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): DND still to confirm reports US ship patrolled off Spratly Islands

While it is still to confirm reports that an American destroyer sailed within 12 nautical miles off Chinese possessions off the Spratly Islands, the Department of National Defense (DND) said the US is only exercising freedom of navigation in international waters.

This was disclosed by DND public affairs service chief Arsenio Andolong Tuesday.

(It is international waters), so any vessels (could) exercise freedom of navigation. That's all we have to say about it," he added.

US media outlets earlier said that unnamed Pentagon official claimed that the American guided-missile destroyer, the USS Lassen, patrolled within 12 nautical miles off the Spratly Islands.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=820008

President Aquino: Congress must immediately pass Bangsamoro Basic Law

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 27): President Aquino: Congress must immediately pass Bangsamoro Basic Law

When it comes to the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), the ball is in the court of the Philippine Congress, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Tuesday.

“We’d like to see the transition of authority and the new governance mode in the Bangsamoro actually taking root and actually delivering on the promise of better governance in that particular part of the country,” the President said during the Annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), held at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City.

"We have been lobbying with members of both chambers (of Congress) to have this measure passed, not just passed but passed quickly," he said when asked if he thinks the BBL could still be approved within his term.

Once the BBL is passed, it has to be ratified in a referendum or a plebiscite before the Bangsamoro Transition Authority can exist, he said.

“You have to have the law passed, you have to have the law approved by our bosses,” he emphasized.

The President explained that if the BBL is passed late, for instance in February when the election ban takes effect, “you have a government in place that can do nothing -- therefore (it) will demonstrate nothing, therefore (it) will doom the possibility of the solution having a chance to prove its worth”.

The BBL, supposed to be one of President Aquino's major legacies, has been hampered by doubts among lawmakers, especially after the bloody Mamasapano, Maguindanao encounter that resulted in the death of 44 elite police commandos.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=820260