PHL's first SSV to be launched on Jan. 17 --AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 15): PHL's first SSV to be launched on Jan. 17 --AFP

The Philippines' first strategic sealift vessel (SSV) will be officially launched on Jan. 17 at the PT PAL (Persero) shipyard in Surabaya, Indonesia.

"We just got word from the Navy that the strategic sealift vessel, one of two that we have ordered from Indonesia, will be launched this Jan. 17," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said on Friday.

Padilla said ranking Philippine defense and military officials will be present during the launching of the first SSV.

"Why are we relaying this news? The acquisition of the SSV is a very important milestone for our Navy, and will increase our capacities for humanitarian assistance and disaster response during critical moments when we are hit by increasingly growing storms in this part of the world," Padilla pointed out.

He added the SSV will give the Navy the capability to transport en masse sizeable number of relief and human assistance and disaster response personnel in critical areas that may be hit by disasters.

"Another, it's a standalone command-and-control ship that can coordinate rescue, recovery, and retrieval efforts during disasters, as well as along with the bulk of goods and relief items that can be provided to our citizens. The other one is the ability for this ship to be used as a floating hospital, in case many of our health centers and hospitals in provincial areas that may be affected by disasters become unavailable," Padilla said.

The first SSV will arrive in the country by May while the second will be delivered in May 2017.

The Philippines has a two-SSV order with PT PAL (Persero) for PhP3.87 billion which is sourced from the AFP Modernization Fund.

The SSV acquisition project for the PN was initiated upon the approval of Acquisition Decision Memorandum Number 2012-060 by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Oct. 30, 2013.

The Department of National Defense declared Persero as the Single Calculated Responsive Bidder with a bidding price of PhP3,870,000,000 on Nov. 18, 2014.

The SSVs are programmed to be the PN’s floating command center carrying out their main purpose as military sealift and transport vessels and also for humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

Further, these vessels are critical assets for civil-military operations due to their capability of transporting large number of soldiers, logistics, and supplies.

Moreover, each SSV has the capacity to house three helicopters. The Navy’s Augusta Westland-109s are programmed to be on-board components of these vessels.

These forthcoming landing platform dock strategic sealift vessels will improve the transport capability of the PN and boost the defense capabilities of the country.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=847015

PAF F-28 VIP transport up for maintenance

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 15): PAF F-28 VIP transport up for maintenance

In line with efforts to ensure all its aircraft are serviceable and mission worthy at all times, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced it is allocating Php10,170,000 for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of its sole Fokker F-28 "Fellowship" VIP transport plane.

The aircraft is primarily used for domestic presidential flights.

Pre-bid conference is scheduled for Jan. 21, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

Submission and opening of bids is on Feb. 2, 9 a.m. at the same venue.

The F-28 is a short range jet airliner designed and built by Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker.

It is similar in design to the British Aircraft Corporation BAC One-Eleven and Douglas DC-9, as it had a T-tail and engines mounted at the rear of the fuselage.

The aircraft has wings with a slight crescent angle of sweep with ailerons at the tip, simple flaps, and five-section liftdumper only operated after landing to dump the lift.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=847000

PNP sending 2 elite police units in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): PNP sending 2 elite police units in Masbate

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is deploying two battalions of police officers, one from the regional police office and one from the Special Action Force (SAF), in Masbate province, a PNP regional official said Thursday.

Police Senior Insp. Malu Calubaquib, PNP Bicol spokesperson, said Masbate has been considered by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as among the election hot spot areas in the country.

Calubaquib said the regional command was sending 800 policemen to augment the present police force in the island-province.

The PNP Bicol has been gearing for the May elections by implementing security measures and the deployment of two police battalions in Masbate would ensure that political-related violence will not thrive during the campaign period for the May 2016 national and local elections.

Earlier, the police regional office set up hundreds of Comelec-PNP checkpoints in strategic areas in the entire region, with over 1,000 policemen to man them, the regional police spokesperson said.

At the onset of the election period on Jan. 10, the PNP was able to set up 202 Comelec checkpoints, with 1,515 policemen manning them.

The deployment of policemen is in response to the reactivation of Task Force Masbate, to be headed by Police Senior Supt. Lito Pitallano, the concurrent deputy director for operations, with Police Senior Insp. Art Gomez serving as Task Force spokesperson.

The Task Force Masbate was created following reports that local politicians here had exercised too much influence over the police and sometimes, the police were being dictated upon in the conduct of their operations.

The TF Masbate was formed during the previous election to oversee the security operations in the province tagged by the military and the police as “hot spot” areas due to intense political rivalries and the presence of political armed groups (PAGs) and communist rebels.

These have resulted in election-related violence that has claimed the lives of hundreds of people.

In past election events, the Comelec-PNP joint force has identified the provinces of Masbate, Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte as election areas of concern due to intense political rivalries and the presence of PAGs and the New People Army rebels.

Based on the list, Masbate has the most number of villages that were placed under Comelec control with 40 villages in 18 towns.

In the previous national and local elections, there were at least six PAGs listed to be operating in Masbate, of which only two are active -- the Arizobal and the Villaruel groups, with 38 members.

During the 2012 national and local elections, the Task Force was able seize hundreds of loose firearms and encourage political candidates to surrender at least 200 high-powered firearms.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846731

PHL eyes need of 'collaborative presence' in South China Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 15): PHL eyes need of 'collaborative presence' in South China Sea
 

The Philippines is eyeing for a "collaborative presence" when it announced that it is interested in having a joint-patrol agreement with the US in contested portions of the South China Sea.

This was stressed by Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez in a message to the PNA.

"Context is that there is a need for more collaborative presence in the South China Sea. Thus, in addition to freedom of navigation operations of the US, we are suggesting that we also patrol the area together," he added.

The country's interest for a joint-patrol agreement was discussed during the Philippine-US 2+2 ministerial meeting held in Washington D.C. last Jan. 12.

"The 2+2 meeting extensively discussed the South China Sea issue, with the US side reiterating the US ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines while the Philippines batting for joint patrols. The US also conveyed that it remains committed to the AFP's modernization program," Galvez added.

The Philippine Navy, which is now undergoing modernization, is sorely lacking in ships capable of long-range patrols.

In the said meeting, the US emphasized that it will not allow China to control the South China Sea and will act to ensure that freedom of navigation is respected.

It also stressed that they will continue to fly and sail whenever and wherever international law allows.

The US also committed to maintain its presence in the South China Sea to include naval, sub-sea, air and special forces.

In addition, the US urged the Philippines to stay closely coordinated with respect to the developments in the South China Sea.

Noting China’s claim that it will not militarize the area, the US suggested the need for parties in the South China Sea to have a common and shared understanding of the term "militarization" to avoid growing tensions.

A common sense among the other parties would put pressure on China.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846834

MNLF unwelcome in Zamboanga City

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 14): MNLF unwelcome in Zamboanga City

Mayor Beng Climaco has banned any rally of the Moro National Liberation Front in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines and ordered authorities to stay alert following a recent plenum by the former rebel group in nearby Sulu province.

Climaco met with senior police and military officials and discussed with them on how to secure Zamboanga which had been attacked twice by MNLF rebels despite a peace accord with manila in September 1996.

She security forces have been alerted on possibility that some individuals may try to hold so-called peace rallies or gathering in Zamboanga. She said such rallies will not be allowed in the as this might disturb Zamboanga anew.

“I am giving you a categorical no, you must not disturb Zamboanga anymore. If you want to come up with your rally, make it in your area, Zamboanga will not welcome a rally by MNLF, not at this time because you still have to be accountable with the killings and devastations we are suffering from,” Climaco said.

Nur Misuari, chieftain of the MNLF, is wanted by authorities after his forces attacked Zamboanga City – first in 2001 and the second was in 2013 – that left over 300 people dead and wounded in three weeks of street battles.

“The destruction wrought by the 2013 siege continues to linger, as internally displaced persons – both Muslims, Christians and Lumads, most of whom are those who eluded the conflicts in Sulu and Basilan – have suffered the brunt of the MNLF attack in Zamboanga three years ago,” Climaco said.

She said MNLF members had been intercepted in Zamboanga on their way to attend the January 8 plenum in Sulu. “The monitoring of these individuals continues until today even as we sleep the patrol continues our brave and gallant police and soldiers in uniform including the Coast Guard – the land, air and sea assets are all monitoring for the safety and security of Zamboanga,” Climaco said.

But many MNLF members are residing in Zamboanga and during the siege many of them, including women, had joined the fighting that displaced over 120,000 people.

In Sulu, security forces have failed to arrest Misuari following a massive show of force by the MNLF and Abu Sayyaf rebels who attended the plenum called by the ageing leader in Indanan town to discuss the upcoming Islamic Inter-Parliamentary Union and summit by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation this year.

Misuari is reportedly planning to attend the summit despite a string of criminal charges filed by authorities against him and about 300 others who took part in the siege of Zamboanga. The plenum forced the military to declare a red alert status in Sulu for fear the MNLF and Abu Sayyaf may launch a surprise attack on government targets.

Misuari signed a peace deal with Manila in September 1996 ending decades of bloody war. After the peace agreement was signed, Misuari became the governor of the Muslim autonomous region. But despite the peace accord, there was a widespread disillusionment with the weak autonomy they were granted.

Under the peace agreement, Manila would have to provide a mini-Marshal Plan to spur economic development in Muslim areas in the south and livelihood and housing assistance to tens of thousands of former rebels to uplift their poor living standards.

In 2001, Misuari’s loyal forces and former MNLF rebels who joined the Philippine Army following the September 1996 peace deal with Manila, attacked a key military base in Jolo town and civilian targets in Zamboanga City in an effort to stop the government from calling an election in the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao where Misuari was then the governor.

Misuari then escaped by boat to Malaysia, where he had been arrested and deported to the Philippines and was eventually pardoned and released by President Gloria Arroyo in exchange for MNLF support to her election bid as well as her allies in the Senate and Congress in 2004. He also ran thrice for governor in Sulu even while under detention, but lost miserably.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/mnlf-unwelcome-in-zamboanga-city/

2 Sayyaf men linked to Sabah kidnappings captured in Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 14): 2 Sayyaf men linked to Sabah kidnappings captured in Philippines

Philippine authorities are interrogating an Abu Sayyaf rebel who was captured Thursday in the southern province of Sulu, officials said.

Officials said Jamil Kahil was cornered by police and soldiers in the village called Buan in Panglima Sugala town. The 35-year old Kahil is being investigated by the police for his alleged link to the kidnappings in Sabah.

Kahil’s capture came a day after security forces also arrested another Abu Sayyaf rebel – Munap Saimaran – in Zamboanga City on Wednesday. Saimaran was implicated in many kidnapping cases, including the cross-border raid in Malaysia’s resort island of Sipadan in Sabah in 2000.

Saimaran’s group kidnapped 21 mostly European and Asian holidaymakers at the island resort and ransomed them off to Malaysia and Libya for at least $25 million.

Last year, police also captured Ibni Acosta, who headed the Abu Sayyaf’s urban terrorist group and involved in the Sipadan kidnappings, in his hideout in Tungawan town in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/2-sayyaf-men-linked-to-sabah-kidnappings-captured-in-philippines/

What you need to know about EDCA

From CNN Philippines (Jan 13): What you need to know about EDCA



File photo

A military agreement between the U.S. and the Philippines has overcome its biggest legal hurdle.
On Tuesday (January 12), the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the U.S. and the Philippines, by a vote of 10-4, and one inhibition.

The court agreed with the government’s contention that this is an executive agreement, not a treaty. The Supreme Court said that EDCA carries out provisions of previous agreements such as the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the 1998 Visiting Forces Agreement.

This essentially means that EDCA does not need the concurrence of the Senate. That's a huge weight lifted off the back of the Aquino administration, which has seen priority bills — such as the Bangsamoro Basic Law — get stuck in the legislature.

According to the Philippine government, it took over two years before the agreement was reached.
Filipino and American soldiers in a joint military training activity. Military ties between both countries date back decades, and the U.S. operated bases in the Philippines until 1991. Granted that EDCA carries out provisions of previous agreements, it is not necessarily a return to the past, according to the government. EDCA explicitly prohibits the U.S. from establishing a permanent military presence or bases in the Philippines.


U.S. State Secretary John Kerry on Wednesday (January 13 PHT) said Washington welcomed the Supreme Court decision. “We look forward to implementing this accord, which will increase the interoperability of our armed forces and contribute to modernization and improve our joint capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies,” he said.

He said the two countries’ military cooperation in maritime security and domain awareness “benefits not just our mutual defense but also actively contributes to maintaining regional stability.”

The conditions governing the presence of U.S. forces in the Philippines will be different from those in Japan and South Korea, which host U.S. military bases.

Detractors of the agreement think otherwise. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan Secretary General Renato Reyes has argued that the agreement makes the country a launching pad for U.S. military intervention, and transforms it into a U.S. military outpost.

Watch: EDCA a one-sided deal for U.S., analyst says

EDCA and U.S. military presence as a whole have generated concerns over the conduct of American service members in the country, with the conviction last year of U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton for the killing of Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude on October 11, 2014 while on liberty following a joint U.S.-Philippine military exercise. The court sentenced Pemberton to imprisonment of 6 to 12 years.

Also read: Joseph Scott Pemberton found guilty of homicide, sentenced to 6-12 years in prison

What does EDCA plan to accomplish?

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter suggested Wednesday that EDCA could support freedom of navigation and freedom of the commons in regional waters, in light of his country's "rebalance to the Asia Pacific region" that entails prepositioning men and materiel in friendly countries.

Related: Philippines, United States ‘reinforce alliance’ through EDCA

"The United States has indicated our intention to fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows, whether it be the South China Sea or anywhere else around the world."

"And the Philippines – and the EDCA decision by the Supreme Court gives us new opportunities here – also is strengthening its role in maritime security, and in that connection we’re working and now have new opportunities to work with the Philippines," he said.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario said EDCA's approval "opens new opportunities to further deepen" the U.S.-Philippines alliance. He emphasized the close ties the two countries have had over the last 70 years. For Del Rosario, relations between both countries are at their "best point."

"One factor behind this is the conscious effort of our leaders to invest in our enduring engagement, and another factor is the emergence of regional challenges that have underscored the need for concerted effort to protect our common values," he added.

What are the authorized activities of the U.S. military personnel?

The agreement is explicit with regard to the type of activities the U.S. may undertake within Philippine territory, in relation to its access and use of "agreed locations":

• Security cooperation exercises
• Joint and combined training
• Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
• Other activities as agreed upon between the U.S. and the Philippines

Where will U.S. forces be stationed?

Although a list has yet to be finalized, EDCA grants the U.S. access to agreed locations without rental or similar fees. However, the U.S. will have to cover its own operational expenses.
Likewise, the agreement stipulates that the U.S., through bilateral security mechanisms, will have operational control of agreed locations for construction activities. It also grants the U.S. the authority to undertake alterations and improvements to those areas.

A "Philippine Designated Authority" and its authorized representative shall have access to these locations.

Read: EDCA helpful to PH in S. China Sea row - retired U.S. admiral

Who will own the land and the structures?

EDCA says that the Philippines will retain ownership of the agreed locations. The U.S. will have to return any agreed locations — including permanent structures if such are no longer required for its activities under the EDCA.

Permanent buildings constructed by the U.S. become property of the Philippines, but shall be used by U.S. forces for the duration of their stay.

How long will EDCA last?

EDCA will have an initial 10-year term. Thereafter, it shall continue to be in force unless terminated by the U.S. or the Philippines, with a one year's written notice.

Read EDCA in full here.

http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/01/13/what-you-need-to-know-about-edca.html

All perpetrators of Jakarta bomb blasts neutralized: police

From the Philippine News Agency/Antara (Jan 14): All perpetrators of Jakarta bomb blasts neutralized: police

The Jakarta Police has claimed to have neutralized all the perpetrators of the bomb blasts that occurred at the Thamrin Boulevard in Central Jakarta.

"All the perpetrators have been neutralized. The total number of casualties is seven, including the four perpetrators," Senior Commissioner M. Iqbal, a spokesman of the Jakarta Metro Jaya Police, stated at the site of the bombing incident on Thursday.

He reported that there were only two bomb blasts, and other explosions were the result of the shootout between the police officers and perpetrators.

A police officer was seriously injured in the incident.

The police are continuing investigation and evacuation at the scene, he stated.

The policemen are conducting combing operations in several buildings near the scene in search of any remaining bombs.

"Even the Jakarta Police chief is leading a screening operation in one of the buildings," he remarked.

He denied reports of bomb blasts in other parts of Jakarta.

"We want to inform (the public) that the condition in Jakarta in general, is safe," he emphasized.

In the meantime, the victims already evacuated to the emergency unit of the Gatot Subroto Hospital located in proximity to the site of the bombing incident are Dutch citizen Johannes Antonius Maria, 21-year-old Indonesian citizen Chairil, police officer Budiyono, 49-year-old policeman Dody Maryadi, and 24-year-old Indonesian citizen Angun.

 

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=4&sid=&nid=4&rid=846619

Police, military operatives arrest Sipadan raider

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Police, military operatives arrest Sipadan raider

Combined police and military operatives have arrested an Abu Sayyaf member who was involved in the Sipadan raid 15 years ago, an official announced Thursday.

Chief Insp. Rogelio Alabata, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) information officer, identified the arrested suspect as Mentang Munap alias Said.

Alabata said Munap was arrested around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday near City Hall along Don Pablo Lorenzo Street downtown.

Alabata said Munap has standing warrant of arrest for 21 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom issued by a court in Pasig City.

He said Munap was allegedly involved in the April 2000 kidnapping of 21 people in a dive resort in the island of Sipadan, Malaysia.

The hostages consisting of eight Europeans and 11 Asians--nine Malaysian and two Filipinos--were herded to the hinterlands of Sulu where they were released in batches.

Alabata said Munap was turned over to the custody of the Western Mindanao Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for documentation prior to court presentation in Pasig City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846485

Police install new chief in Zambo City

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Police install new chief in Zambo City

Chief Supt. Miguel Antonio, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, has directed Senior Supt. Luisito Magnaye to "double" the accomplishments of his predecessor at the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO).

Antonio issued the directive as he installed Magnaye on Thursday as the new ZCPO director vice Senior Supt. Angelito Casimiro, the outgoing local police director.

"Just do what your are suppose to do," Antonio told Magnaye during the turnover of command ceremony at the ZCPO headquarters.

Magnaye acknowledged that he is facing a great challenge as the new ZCPO director

Magnaye, as the ZCPO director, has jurisdiction over 11 police stations and one public safety company.

He encouraged all the chiefs of the 11 police stations to diligently do their respective tasks.

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said that, as the chief executive, she will continue to support the ZCPO for the betterment of this city in terms of peace and order.

"I will not be at your back but I will walk with you because I want you to succeed in your tasks," Salazar said.

She wished Casimiro "the best of luck" in his next assignment.

Casimiro has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the police, military, and government officials as well as from the other sectors who on one way or the other have supported him during his stint as the ZCPO director.

Casimiro has served as the ZCPO director for one year, nine months and 16 days.

Antonio awarded Casimiro as Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846545

AFP units in heightened alert following Jakarta terror attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): AFP units in heightened alert following Jakarta terror attacks

In the wake of the terror attacks which left at six people dead in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Thursday that it is placing its units in all areas in heightened alert.

"AFP is now elevating alert levels to heightened alert in all areas," AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said in a text message to the Philippines News Agency.

This is to ensure a state of readiness should there be a need to respond to certain contingencies, he added.

However, Padilla clarified that there are no threats monitored in the Philippines.

"None monitored so far. Security sector agencies maintain a proactive stance to prevent such incidents," he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=846728

Army: No private armed groups intended for elections in Negros Island

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Army: No private armed groups intended for elections in Negros Island

Col. Francisco Delfin, commander of the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade, said the army has not monitored the existence of private armed groups in Negros Island that maybe used during the elections.

Delfin added that they were monitoring instead the presence of armed groups, although in small numbers, engaged in food foraging mission in southern Negros.

Our soldiers are responding to it, he added.

Delfin also reminded candidates not to pay the so-called “permit to campaign” fees charged by the New People’s Army (NPA).

“Do not yield to NPA extortion activities. (The payment) will be used against the government,” he said.

Delfin said they had not received complaints from candidates so far.

The Army soldiers are very active in the interior areas of Negros Island to prevent any possible terroristic activities of lawless elements, he added.

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has warned candidates that they could face disqualification for paying “permit to campaign” fees.

The NPA rebels charge fees, depending on the position a candidate is seeking and the area where the rebels operate.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846630

Mangudadatu, MILF oppose probing Mamasapano incident anew

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Mangudadatu, MILF oppose probing Mamasapano incident anew

Reelectionist Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu opposes another probe on the infamous “Mamasapano incident.”

Speaking to reporters, Mangudadatu said the new probe of the Jan. 25-bloody encounter might have adverse impact on the Mindanao peace process and turn the investigation as another venue for grandstanding of national political aspirants.

The clash aimed at putting down a Malaysian terrorist has put the Mindanao peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) hanging in the balance.

“Let the pain heal further. Reopening it may also open a healed wound,” Mangudadatu said. Let’s put closure to it, move on and help each other move the peace process forward,” he added.

The operation left at least 44 Police Special Action Force, 17 MILF members and five innocent civilians were killed in the Mamasapano incident.

It was marked as the bloodiest clash between government forces and Moro rebels which was blamed on lack of coordination and respect to the existing ceasefire mechanism.

Mangudadatu said there were other issues that need national attention other than reopening a closed case. He suggested that the best thing to do now is for the government and the MILF to cooperate to put an end to the Mamasapano controversy.

”Let the ceasefire mechanism work, it was mutually agreed and proven to have been successful in other incidents which prevented bloodshed,” he said.

Senator Juan Ponce Enrile early this week proposed another probe citing there were new information but many believed it was politically motivated aimed at giving maximum exposures to lawmakers seeking public office and make it appear the administration is to be blamed.

The MILF is also opposed to it.

Ghadzali Jaafar, MILF’s vice chairman for political affairs, said another probe would reopen a closed case and an exercise in futility.

“Its election season and the proposal is an investigation in aid of election,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846636

Army cites successful implementation of internal peace and security program

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Army cites successful implementation of internal peace and security program

 

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, GAMU, Isabela -- The 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (5ID, PA) based in the town of Gamu was successful in implementing its Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) in its area of jurisdiction.

The IPSP has caused the strengthening of cooperation between the army and the various sectors in the former’s area of jurisdiction thus achieving peace in Regions 1, 2 and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

Army sergeant Jake Lopez of the civil military operations (CMO) battalion said the close coordination with local chief executives, sectoral heads and other leaders in the three regions is the key to keep the place peaceful.

Meanwhile, the camp's soldiers are prepared to secure the conduct of the May 9, 2016 national and local elections.

Lopez said that the Army Division has enough soldiers to ensure the peaceful conduct of the electoral process in its area of jurisdiction.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=846584

Only HADR equipment to be stockpiled in EDCA selected bases

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): Only HADR equipment to be stockpiled in EDCA selected bases

US forces, allowed access to Filipino military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), are only allowed to stockpile humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) equipment.

This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla Wednesday.

"The storage of equipment right now is limited to HADR equipment, so no tanks, no war fighting equipment for the moment," he added.

This is to allow quick response of Filipino and American units in case another disaster or calamity strikes the country in the near future.

HADR equipment to be stockpiled include water purifiers, generators, lighting equipment, trucks and other heavy lift vehicles, the AFP spokesperson pointed out.

Possible Filipino military bases to be opened under the EDCA include Fort Magsayay in Nueva Ecija; Crow Valley in Tarlac; Basa Air Base, in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu; Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu; Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz; Naval Station San Miguel in San Antonio, Zambales, Antonio Bautista Airbase, Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Lumbia Airfield in Cagayan De Oro and Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City.

Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said the EDCA, which was declared constitutional by the Supreme Court (SC) last Jan. 12, will help boost Philippine maritime security and HADR capabilities.

"The DND welcomes the ruling of our SC declaring EDCA constitutional. With this development that builds upon our mutual defense treaty, we look forward to advancing our defense modernization and strengthening maritime Security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities," he added.

The SC, Tuesday, voting 10-4-1, declared EDCA as constitutional.

It also upheld the position of the government that the EDCA is an executive agreement and does not need the Senate concurrence.

In the same vein, Galvez said this puts the Armed Forces of the Philippines in a better position to improve inter-operability with the US military aside from improving the AFP's capabilities.

Finalized after eight rounds of talks that began in August 2013, EDCA, which signed in 2014, allows US troops access to designated Philippine military facilities, the right to construct facilities, and pre-position equipment, aircraft and vessels, but rules out permanent basing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846371

US to maintain presence in West Philippine Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): US to maintain presence in West Philippine Sea

The US committed to maintain its presence in the West Philippine Sea and vowed to ensure freedom of navigation in the disputed waters.

In a statement, Defense Spokesperson Peter Paul Galvez said the US stressed during the Philippine-US 2+2 ministerial meeting last Jan. 12 that it will continue to fly and sail whenever and wherever international law allows.

He said the US presence in the disputed waters would include naval, sub-sea, air and special forces.

"The 2+2 meeting extensively discussed the South China Sea issue, with the US side reiterating the US ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines while the Philippines batting for joint patrols. The US also conveyed that it remains committed to the AFP's (Armed Forces of the Philippines) modernization program," he said.

The US also urged the Philippines to stay closely coordinated with the developments in the West Philippine Sea.

"Noting China’s claim that it will not militarize the area, the US suggested the need for parties in the South China Sea to have a common and shared understanding of the term 'militarization' to avoid growing tensions. A common sense among the other parties would put pressure on China," he added.

Galvez said both the US and the Philippines agreed that maritime security and maritime domain awareness have to rise high on the agenda in PH-US strategic engagement, of which the Maritime Security Initiative is a good project.

Both sides also acknowledged the usefulness of multilateral cooperation in addressing security challenges and agreed to explore the possibility of the participation of other partners such as Japan and Australia in Philippine-US exercises and activities.

The Philippine side stressed that the involvement of other parties in these activities shall be in accordance with the Philippines’ national legal framework.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846497

US renews 'ironclad' commitment to defend PHL and strengthen its defense and maritime capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): US renews 'ironclad' commitment to defend PHL and strengthen its defense and maritime capabilities

Amid China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea, the United States has vowed to strengthen the defense capability of the Philippines as it renewed its “ironclad” commitment to defend its long-time treaty ally against aggression.

At the close of their second high-level talks in Washington on Jan. 12, the foreign and defense chiefs of the Philippines and US issued a joint statement declaring the need for stronger military cooperation as China keeps expanding its presence in the waters also contested by the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Taiwan.

To enhance security and defense cooperation, Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario and US Secretary of State John Kerry, together with Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, have committed to enhance the Philippines’ maritime security presence and maritime domain awareness.

To demonstrate such commitment, Washington is transferring a third high-endurance cutter and a research vessel to the Philippines this year.

Both sides also agreed to coordinate closely on the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a mutually beneficial agreement that will enhance the United States’ ability to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and help build capacity for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

They have also declared to boost military-to-military cooperation and inter-operability through joint exercises, capacity-building, and intelligence sharing.

The meeting, called Two-Plus-Two Ministerial Dialogue, is the highest level policy consultative mechanism between the Philippine and US governments. This was their first meeting since 2012.

The ministers also discussed regional and global challenges that threaten peace and stability and the rule of law as Del Rosario and Gazmin welcomed the reaffirmation of the ironclad US commitment to the defense the Philippines.

Recently, China conducted two test landings at the Fiery Cross Reef -- one of the seven features in the South China Sea that was transformed into artificial islands by Beijing, triggering concerns from the Philippines, Vietnam and US.

In their statement, the ministers underscored the need “for all parties to refrain from provocative, unilateral actions that aim to change the status quo in the South China Sea.”

They also noted that the ruling of the UN Law of the Sea Convention arbitral tribunal on Manila’s case that seeks to invalidate China’s massive sea claim would be legally binding on both China and the Philippines.

The ministers also highlighted the importance of parties taking active steps to reduce tensions, including halting the reclamation, construction on, and militarization of outposts in the South China Sea and to refrain from any actions that harass, coerce, or intimidate other parties in the South China Sea.

“In particular, the Ministers shared concern over recent test flights at Fiery Cross Reef, which exacerbate tensions and are inconsistent with the region’s commitments to exercise restraint from actions that could complicate or escalate disputes,” they said.

The ministers also expressed concern regarding large-scale land reclamation of occupied features, as well as the construction of new facilities and airstrips on them, and their impact on the marine environment, recognizing the importance of the South China Sea to the welfare and livelihoods of the many people who have for generations depended on the living resources of the South China Sea.

In a separate meeting, the Philippines has welcomed the US senate’s support for President Barack Obama’s maritime security assistance to Asia amid China’s rapidly increasing presence over the waters.

Demonstrating its keen interest in the latest developments in the region, the Senate Armed Services Committee introduced the Maritime Security Initiative in its FY 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that allots USD 50 million to help enhance the maritime security capacities of countries in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.

President Obama first unveiled this maritime assistance plan when he was in Manila for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit last November 17.

Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario and Secretary of Defense Voltaire Gazmin met with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Chairman and ranking member of the US Senate Armed Services Committee, respectively, on Jan. 12.

“We wish to thank the Senate Armed Services Committee for the priority it has accorded to US engagement with Asia-Pacific and for the Committee’s statements calling for stronger US presence in the region,” Del Rosario said on behalf of the Philippine delegation.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846508

PHL keen to have joint-patrol agreement with US

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): PHL keen to have joint-patrol agreement with US

The Philippines is keen on having a joint-patrol agreement with the US in disputed portions of the South China Sea.

This was stressed during the Philippine-US 2+2 ministerial meeting held in Washington D.C. last Jan. 12.

"The 2+2 meeting extensively discussed the South China Sea issue, with the US side reiterating the US ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines while the Philippines batting for joint patrols. The US also conveyed that it remains committed to the AFP's modernization program," Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said in a statement Thursday.

The Philippine Navy, which is now undergoing modernization, is sorely lacking in ships capable of long-range patrols.

In the said meeting, the US emphasized that it will not allow China to control the South China Sea and will act to ensure that freedom of navigation is respected.

It also stressed that they will continue to fly and sail whenever and wherever international law allows.

The US also committed to maintain presence in the South China Sea to include naval, sub-sea, air and special forces.

In addition, the US urged the Philippines to stay closely coordinated with respect to the developments in the South China Sea.

Noting China’s claim that it will not militarize the area, the US suggested the need for parties in the South China Sea to have a common and shared understanding of the term "militarization" to avoid growing tensions.

A common sense among the other parties would put pressure on China.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846561

EDCA does not automatically boost numbers of US troops in PHL military exercises -- AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): EDCA does not automatically boost numbers of US troops in PHL military exercises -- AFP

Despite the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) being declared constitutional by the Supreme Court (SC), US forces will not be arriving in the Philippines en masse during scheduled military exercises.

Col. Restituto Padilla, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman, said the number of participating US troops in any exercises is dependent on the recommendation of the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB).

"If the assessment of the MDB-SEB (found out that) these are necessary to increase our interoperability then it will be done," he added.

Possible Filipino military bases to be opened under the EDCA include Fort Magsayay in Nueva Ecija; Crow Valley in Tarlac; Basa Air Base, in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu; Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu; Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz; Naval Station San Miguel in San Antonio, Zambales, Antonio Bautista Airbase, Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Lumbia Airfield in Cagayan De Oro and Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City.

Department of National Defense (DND) spokesman Dr. Peter Paul Galvez earlier said the EDCA will help boost Philippine maritime security and HADR capabilities.

"The DND welcomes the ruling of our SC declaring EDCA constitutional. With this development that builds upon our mutual defense treaty, we look forward to advancing our defense modernization and strengthening maritime Security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities," he said.

The SC on Tuesday voted 10-4-1, declaring EDCA as constitutional.

It also upheld the position of the government that the EDCA is an executive agreement and does not need the Senate concurrence.

In the same vein, Galvez said this puts the AFP in a better position to improve interoperability with the US military aside from improving its capabilities.

Finalized after eight rounds of talks that began in August 2013, EDCA, which signed in 2014, allows US troops access to designated Philippine military facilities, the right to construct facilities, and pre-position equipment, aircraft and vessels, but rules out permanent basing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846548

PHL condemns Jakarta attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): PHL condemns Jakarta attacks

The Philippines has "strongly" condemned the attacks in Jakarta's business district Thursday morning, killing at least six people.

"We stand by in solidarity with our Indonesian brothers and sisters in this time of tragedy," the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

According to DFA, the country's embassy in Jakarta is closely monitoring the situation and is in contact with Indonesian authorities.

So far, there are no reports of Filipino casualties in the attacks, it added.

The Philippines was once a target of terror attack in Jakarta by Muslim militants.

In 2000, Manila's top envoy there, Ambassador Leonides Caday, was nearly killed in a car bomb attack at his residence by suspected Jemaah Islamiyah militants.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846708

Perpetrators of Jakarta bombings carried firearms

From Antara (Jan 14): Perpetrators of Jakarta bombings carried firearms



Police guard a post blast in the surrounding area Sarinah, Jalan MH Thamrin, Jakarta, Thursday (Jan. 1, 2016). (ANTARANews/Arindra Meodia)

The perpetrators behind the bomb blasts at the police check post and Starbucks Cofffee cafe near the Sarinah departmental store at the MH Thamrin Boulevard in Central Jakarta were reportedly unmasked and carrying firearms.

"They were still young and were carrying FN pistols and backpacks," a witness named Ruli stated here on Thursday before being evacuated from the scene.

The perpetrator, who carried out the shooting, was a man wearing a short-sleeved shirt, while the others wore long-sleeved shirts and entered the cafe that was targeted in the bomb attack.

At first, Ruli thought that the shock wave he felt from the explosion was that of an earthquake, but after going downstairs, he witnessed the blast and a person being thrown out of the cafe due to the impact of the explosion.

Another witness said there were three suicide bombers who blew themselves up near a police check post at the Jakarta Theatre Building on the MH Thamrin Boulevard.

Tri Feranto, an eye witness who is a security officer at Mandiri Bank, claimed that the first and second explosions occurred at the Starbucks cafe at 10:35 a.m. local time.

The third explosion at a police check post was carried out by the three suicide bombers, in which a policeman was injured.

After the third explosion, a series of shootings took place that targeted the police, and two officers were injured during the gunfight.

Feranto claimed to have seen the face of the perpetrator who passed in front of him.

"He looked like an immigrant having dark skin, was not too tall, and still young," he explained.

Press attache of the French Cultural Agency (IFI) Dwi Setyowati whose office is near the bombing sites pointed out that he heard five explosions and gunshots.

"All staff members at the IFI and French Embassy are prohibited from going outside right now," she added.

The buildings and shops along the Thamrin Boulevard have been cordoned off. Some helicopters are conducting aerial monitoring of the situation.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/102509/perpetrators-of-jakarta-bombings-carried-firearms

Philippines condemns Jakarta bombings; no Filipino hurt

From Rappler (Jan 14): Philippines condemns Jakarta bombings; no Filipino hurt

(UPDATED) Jakarta is the site of another explosion in 2000 that wounded then Philippine ambassador Leonides Caday    



JAKARTA BLASTS. A general view shows the scene of a bomb blast at a police station in front of a shopping mall in Jakarta, Indonesia, on January 14, 2016. Photo by EPA

The Philippines on Thursday, January 14, denounced the explosions in Jakarta that killed at least 6 people, and said the country stands with their "Indonesian brothers and sisters."

“The Philippines strongly condemns the attacks in Jakarta in the morning of January 14, 2016, that claimed the lives of innocent people,” the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

“We stand by in solidarity with our Indonesian brothers and sisters in this time of tragedy,” the DFA added.

At the same time, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said no Filipino was injured.

“Our Embassy in Jakarta has confirmed that there are no Filipino casualties in the explosion in Jakarta,” Jose said in a text message around 1:30 pm Thursday.

A series of bombs killed at least 6 people in Jakarta on the same day, with shots fired outside a café as security forces moved in, police and witnesses said.

 

The explosions were close to a shopping center, the Sarinah, where bodies were seen strewn on the ground.

 

The site of the explosions is around 5 minutes away, by car, from the Philippine ambassador’s residence.

 

Terror threats

 

Jakarta is the site of another explosion in 2000 that wounded then Philippine ambassador Leonides Caday.

 

A breakaway group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, a rebel movement in the Philippines, said it was responsible for that explosion in Jakarta in 2000. But later reports said the Al-Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) was responsible for the attack.

 

The Washington Post reported in March 2003 that the car bombing at Caday's residence was carried out by the same JI militants behind the explosion at two Bali nightclubs in October 2002.

 

The blast “killed two people and wounded 20 others, including Philippine ambassador Leonides Caday,” the BBC reported in August 2000. The ambassador suffered broken legs.

 

Caday died in November 2013 at the age of 83, GMA News said in a report.

 

Thursday’s bombs come just weeks after Jakarta was placed on high alert after anti-terror police foiled what they said were plans for a New Year suicide attack in the Indonesian capital.

 

Experts recently warned Southeast Asia about possible attacks by the terrorist group Islamic State (ISIS), which runs on the ideology that fueled Al-Qaeda.

 

(READ: 4 things you need to know about ISIS in Indonesia)

 

Rappler reported that ISIS may soon declare a province in the southern Philippines.

 

Southeast Asian expert Greg Barton told Rappler: “There is reason to be concerned that ISIS will succeed in inspiring a Paris November 13 style mass casualty attack in Southeast Asia in the coming year.”

 

“The Philippines is vulnerable,” Barton added, “because there is a very strong correlation between terrorist movements and lack of good governance. The south remains fraught with problems of governance and groups like the Abu Sayyaf have for decades been free to operate with a relatively high degree of freedom and lack of hindrance in their movements.”

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/119020-filipinos-jakarta-explosions-dfa

AFP urges public to extra careful, vigilant in wake of Jakarta bombings

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14): AFP urges public to extra careful, vigilant in wake of Jakarta bombings
 

In wake of the terror bombings in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta which killed around six people Thursday, local security forces have urged the public to be extra careful and vigilant.

"Our security forces are well aware of the emerging threat and have been conducting operations to prevent terror acts anywhere in the country. We appeal to the public to be extra vigilant and to help our security forces address the threat," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said.

"With our collective efforts, we can make a difference in securing our people from any terror acts. That is the Filipino spirit of 'Bayanihan'," he added.

On Thursday afternoon, the Philippine National Police activated its full alert status following the series of blasts in the Indonesian capital.

The jihadist group Islamic State is believed to be responsible for the bombings.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=846618