President Aquino determined to end Abu Sayyaf threat, says Palace official

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 16): President Aquino determined to end Abu Sayyaf threat, says Palace official
 

President Benigno S. Aquino III is determined to put an end to the threat posed by the Abu Sayyaf Group, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said on Friday.

"Buong-buo ang determinasyon ng Pangulo at ng pamahalaan na bigyan na ng mariing dagok at mawakasan na itong mga pananakot na ginagawa ng (Abu Sayyaf), dahil batid naman natin ang ating Sandatahang Lakas ay nakapagdagdag na ng kanilang mga kagamitan," Secretary Coloma told reporters during a press briefing at the Palace.

"Sapat ang kagamitan ng ating mga Sandatahang Lakas. Sapat din ang kanilang pagsasanay. Mataas ang moral ng ating mga kasundaluhan kaya’t pinaiigting ang paglaban sa kanila," he added.

The Palace official pointed out that the area controlled by the rebels has been reduced due to the completion of the Basilan Circumferential Road.

"Totoong lumiliit na ‘yung lugar na pwede nilang pagkilusan dahil sa mga importanteng proyektong pangimprastruktura na nakumpleto na ng ating pamahalaan, katulad ng Basilan Circumferential Road," he said, noting that the island province of Basilan is now encircled by a concrete highway.

“Meron pang kasunod na proyekto diyan ang ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) natin, in coordination with DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways), sina Governor Mujiv Hataman. Ang tawag doon sa proyekto ay ang Transcentral Road Project. Nauna ‘yung sa kapaligiran, ngayon naman ‘yung sa gitna. Sa gitna mismo ng isla, merong mga bulubunduking bahagi doon, may Transcentral Road Project naman para talagang mag-improve ‘yung connectivity,” he explained.
Coloma reiterated that the government will not allow the armed group to continue its illegal activities.

"Hindi natin pwedeng pahintulutan na magpatuloy sila sapagkat tuwing sila ay makakakuha -- through extortion, through kidnap-for-ransom activities -- ng mga malalaking halaga ng salapi, ito rin ang ginagamit nila para magpatuloy ang kanilang tiwaling mga ginagawa na labag sa batas at ang paghahasik ng ligalig sa ating mga mamamayan, Kaya’t buong-buo ang determinasyon ng pamahalaan hinggil diyan," he said.

On a Singaporean expert’s claim that the Islamic State (ISIS) was behind the deadly encounter in Basilan, Coloma pointed out that rebel groups used to say that they have links with the Al Qaeda but these days, they say they have links with the ISIS.

“Kinakailangan meron silang branding na ganoon para makilala sila, para katakutan sila… Pero kung tutuusin, titingnan natin what these groups really are -- ang talagang generic characterization natin ay these are opportunists, mercenary groups na hindi dapat bigyan ng puwang sa ating bansa,” he said.

“Dapat sila ay labanan sa fullest extent na magagawa natin… Kasi habang ibinabandera natin, ito ay ISIS, Al Qaeda, para bang binibigyan pa natin sila ng puwang. Samantalang sa katotohanan ay sila naman ay mga oportunista at mga mersinaryong grupo na walang lugar sa ating bansa.”

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141460723590/president-aquino-determined-to-end-abu-sayyaf-threat-says-palace-official

Abu Sayyaf sets new deadline for Samal captives

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 15): Abu Sayyaf sets new deadline for Samal captives

The Abu Sayyaf Group, which has pledged alliance to the Islamic State, has set a new deadline for the two Canadians and one Norwegian they abducted on Samal Island in September, according to a video released on Friday.

The militants have also lowered their demand to P300 million each instead of P1 billion for the hostages.

The original deadline was on April 8 but the Abu Sayyaf moved it to April 25.

“This is already and ultimate (sic). Once you don’t meet the demand, we will certainly behead one from among these four,” one of the gunmen standing behind the hostages said.

In the nearly two-minute video, Canadians John Ridsel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Filipina Marites Flor, were flanked by the gunmen.

“If demand is not met by April 25, I will be executed at 3 p.m. that day,” said Sekkingstad, as his head was held by a blade-wielding gunman.

The captive said they were being held in Sulu Island.

Ridsel also expressed the same appeal: “We were told that this is the absolute final warning. This is an urgent to governments and families. If 300 million is not paid for me by 3 p.m. on April 25 they will behead me,” he said.

Hall issued the same sentiment: “I am told to tell you that my ransom is P300 million. I appeal to my family, Philippine and Canadian government whom I know has the capacity to get us out of here,” he said.

Military officials were unavailable for comment as of posting time.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/138644/abu-sayyaf-sets-new-deadline-for-samal-captives

China slams new US-PH military cooperation

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 16): China slams new US-PH military cooperation

Joint patrols reflect ‘Cold War mentality’



WAR GAMES END Philippine Navy Vice Adm. Alexander Lopez and Lt. Gen. John Toolan of the US Marine Forces in the Pacific, the joint directors of Balikatan 2016, shake hands at the conclusion of the war games at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on Friday. Behind are Pentagon chief Ashton Carter (left), Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri. RICHARD REYES
Responding to what it called provocative plans for stepped-up US-Philippine military cooperation, China on Thursday said it would “resolutely defend” its interests and accused the two longstanding allies of militarizing the South China Sea and harboring a “Cold War mentality.”

READ: China blasts new US-Philippine military cooperation

The comments of China’s defense ministry came shortly after Thursday’s announcement that the United States would send troops and planes to the Philippines for more frequent rotations and would increase joint sea and air patrols with Philippine forces in the hotly disputed South China Sea.

 In a move likely to further anger Beijing, US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter on Friday  visited an aircraft carrier—a potent symbol of US military might—in the South China Sea as part of his current visit to the region, which does not include a stop in China.

READ: US Defense Secretary Carter to visit warship in South China Sea

“The joint patrols between the United States and the Philippines in the South China Sea are militarizing the region and are nonbeneficial to regional peace and stability,” said a statement posted to the ministry’s website late Thursday.

“The Chinese military will pay close attention to the situation, and resolutely defend China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime interests,” the statement said.

China claims virtually the entire South China Sea as its territory and is building artificial islands there topped with airstrips and other infrastructure.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan also claim territory controlled or claimed by China and increased military and coast guard deployments by all sides could increase the potential for conflict.

China has constructed artificial islands on reefs in the Spratly archipelago, close to the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam, in waters that are home to some of the world’s most important shipping lanes and where islets, reefs and atolls are believed to be sitting atop vast oil and natural gas reserves.



US military alliances

The Chinese defense ministry’s statement also referenced China’s longstanding opposition to US military alliances in the region. It regards those as a form of unwelcome interference that stymies its desired status as the preeminent military power in the Asia-Pacific region.

“Strengthening the US-Philippine military alliance … is a sign of a Cold War mentality that is unbeneficial to peace and stability in the South China Sea,” the statement said.

Carter announced the joint patrols in Manila on Thursday, the last day of annual war games between the US and the Philippine militaries, which saw the participation of 9,000 US and Filipino troops and live-fire exercises with an advanced US long-range missile system that may be deployed to defend Philippine territory under a new security deal between the longtime allies.

The South China Sea dispute also featured in talks between Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Malcolm Turnbull, the prime minister of close US ally Australia, which is trying to balance security needs with its economy’s reliance on the Chinese market.
  
Settle disputes peacefully

“We’ve always had good and constructive discussions but our position is that all claimants, all claimants, should settle disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law,” Turnbull told reporters in Beijing on Friday, a day after his meeting with Li.

Beijing and Washington have repeatedly traded accusations over who is responsible for raising tensions in the South China Sea, with the United States citing China’s island-building project and efforts to block other disputants from parts of the crucial waterway, through which passes more than $5 trillion in global trade passes each year.



Threat to China security

China says its island developments are mainly for civilian purposes and says US naval activities—especially the sailing of ships close to its newly built islands—threatens China’s security.

“The US has been taking all kinds of actions to provoke China, forcing it to take counteractions that will result in an escalation of the situation,” Su Hao, an international relations expert at Beijing’s China Foreign Affairs University, told The Associated Press.

“The joint patrols are part of the US plan and now the plan is being implemented,” Su said.

Su said Beijing anticipated the United States would eventually launch joint patrols with other nations to further challenge China’s position in the South China Sea.

Chinese media speculate that could involve Japan, China’s historical nemesis with which it is feuding over ownership of a string of uninhabited Japanese-controlled islands in the East China Sea.

“The continuous escalation of the situation will offer the US better excuses and more opportunities to strengthen its military presence in the South China Sea, so as to turn the South China Sea into a region of military confrontation,” Su said.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/138645/china-slams-new-us-ph-military-cooperation

‘US to support Phl vs coercion, intimidation’ Ash Carter visits warship in Spratlys

From the Philippine Star (Apr 16): ‘US to support Phl vs coercion, intimidation’ Ash Carter visits warship in Spratlys



Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez (left), the Philippines’ director for Balikatan, and his counterpart Lt. Gen. John Toolan (right), commander of the US Marine Forces in the Pacific, link arms with (from left) Foreign Secretary Jose Almendras, US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and military chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri during the ceremony marking the end of the annual joint military exercise at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City yesterday. MICHAEL VARCAS    

ABOARD THE USS JOHN C. STENNIS – The United States is committed to back the Philippines against coercion and intimidation, Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said yesterday.

The US official issued the pronouncement before visiting the John C. Stennis as the warship sailed close to flashpoint waters of the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea yesterday.

Beijing has reacted defiantly to an American military build-up in the area.

Carter’s trip to the Stennis was the latest effort by the US to show its commitment to maintaining security in the hotly contested waters, where China has rattled nerves by building artificial islands on islets and reefs claimed by some of its Southeast Asian neighbors.

Before flying from Manila to visit the warship, Carter emphasized the US would support the Philippines and other allies as they faced “coercion and intimidation.”

“We will continue to stand up for our safety and freedoms, for those of our friends and allies, and for the values, principles and rules-based order that has benefited so many for so long,” Carter said at a closing ceremony for the annual US-Philippine Balikatan war games.

The roughly two-hour visit to the Stennis came after Carter announced on Thursday that the US had launched joint naval patrols with the Philippines in the sea, as he spoke of growing concern about China’s “land reclamation” and “militarization” of the region.

He also said the US would deploy hundreds of troops, as well as warplanes, to the Philippines.

China claims nearly all of the strategically vital sea, even waters close to its Southeast Asian neighbors, and has in recent years built the islands in an effort to assert what it insists are its sovereign rights.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims to parts of the sea, which is home to some of the world’s most important shipping lanes and is believed to sit atop vast oil and natural gas reserves.

China built the islands on reefs in the Spratlys archipelago, which are close to the Philippines and Malaysia, as well as airstrips capable of accommodating military aircraft.

China in 2012 also took control of Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal just 220 kilometers from Zambales. The shoal is 650 kilometers from China’s nearest major land mass.
Carter visited the Stennis, along with journalists, after making a short flight to the carrier from Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan.

“With each Balikatan and each cruise by the Stennis, with each new multilateral exercise and each new defense agreement, we add a stitch to the fabric of the region’s security network,” Carter said in prepared remarks earlier. “This is the network – peaceful, principled and inclusive – America continues to stand for, and stand with.”

“Together you rehearsed maritime interdiction operations so we can respond more quickly to threats at sea and together you simulated the recovery of oil and gas platform for possible forces in the South China (Sea),” Carter said in a speech addressed to troops at the closing ceremonies for Balikatan.

“Through it all, you made our strong alliance even stronger. You helped prepare our nations for this important alliance so we can confront very real challenges,” he added.

“At a time of change in this dynamic region and democratic transitions in the Philippines and the US, we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder and we will continue to stand up for our safety and freedom, for those of our friends and allies and for the values, principles and rules-based order that has benefited so many for so long,” Carter declared.

The US has already conducted what it calls “freedom of navigation” patrols in the area, sailing within 12-nautical mile territorial limits around disputed islands controlled by China to underscore its right to navigate the seas.

Carter said the US strategy was aimed at maintaining peace and lawful settlement of disputes, not provoking a conflict with a major world power.

“Countries that don’t stand for those things, or don’t stand with those things, are going to end up isolating themselves. But that will be self-isolation, not isolation by us,” Carter said.

The carrier stop caps off a trip to Asia designed to highlight the expanding partnerships the US is building with countries in the region, which Carter said had been asking for a greater US role.

Hundreds of US troops and some aircraft will stay behind in the Philippines temporarily, and on Thursday, the two countries revealed they had begun conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea.

Defiant reaction

China reacted defiantly to Thursday’s announcement of the joint patrols and US deployments to the Philippines, with its defense ministry warning the military would protect the nation’s territory.

“US-Philippine joint patrols in the South China Sea promote regional militarization and undermine regional peace and stability,” said a Chinese defense ministry statement released late Thursday.

“The Chinese military will pay very close attention to related developments and firmly safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” the statement read.

The 275 US troops and nine aircraft that Carter said would stay in the Philippines following the Balikatan war games are the first major deployments under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement finalized in January.

The pact allows US forces to rotate soldiers and military hardware through the Philippines, an important part of American efforts to expand its military presence throughout the Asia-Pacific.

US forces will initially have access to five Philippine military bases, including two close to the hotspot areas of the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea.
Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Thursday said he hoped the US efforts would “deter uncalled-for action by the Chinese.”

The heightened US military presence in the Philippines is an important plank of the US so-called pivot to Asia under President Barack Obama.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang yesterday blamed the US deploying extra forces to the Asia-Pacific for any rise in tensions in the region. “Peaceful settlement of the disputes is what regional countries, including China and parties directly concerned by the South China Sea, aspire to,” Lu told reporters in Beijing.

“Before the US rebalance to Asia, the relevant disputes had already existed for several decades.”

Still, more fun in Phl

At the conclusion of the Balikatan, Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene Almendras told US and other foreign troops “despite the heat of summer, you will agree that it is more fun in the Philippines.”

Thousands of US troops and other military personnel prepared to leave yesterday after their joint military drills with Filipino soldiers, airmen and sailors.

“For our American friends and other foreigners who are here with us, thank you for coming to the Philippines during the hottest period of our year. Thank you for sacrificing the sweat shared with our Filipino soldiers,” Almendras said in his speech at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The Philippines, in the past days, has been experiencing extraordinarily hot summer weather due to El Niño weather phenomenon.

More than 10,000 US and Filipino soldiers, and some Australian and Japanese troops, participated in this year’s joint war drill. Officials said the tensions in the South China Sea have nothing to do with the launching of the joint exercises.

Almendras pointed out the bilateral security cooperation between the Philippines and the US has always been a model for other security arrangements, especially for tackling terrorism and improving disaster preparedness and response.

He commended Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez, Balikatan exercise director for the Philippines; and Lt. Gen. John Toolan, exercise director for the US, for the successful conduct of the Balikatan.

He also stressed Carter’s visit to personally observe Balikatan was the first by a US defense chief.

“Secretary Carter, we appreciate your personal commitment to the US engagement in Asia, and the defense alliance of the Philippines in particular,” Almendras said.

“We cannot over-emphasize our appreciation for the principled position by the US government to the territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea by upholding the freedom of navigation and unimpeded lawful commerce, non-use of force and threat of force and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law,” Almendras added.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/04/16/1573365/us-support-phl-vs-coercion-intimidation-ash-carter-visits-warshipin

Japan report cites concern about China's rapid militarization

From ABS-CBN (Apr 15): Japan report cites concern about China's rapid militarization



China's People's Liberation Army soldiers on their armoured vehicles equipped with anti-aircraft artillery roll to Tiananmen Square during the military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two, in Beijing, China. Reuters

Japan cites concerns about China's rapid militarization including construction of outposts and their military use in the contested waters of the South China Sea, emphasizing the need to protect open and free waters in the government's annual foreign policy report released Friday.

Japan is required "to coordinate with the international community to protect open, free and peaceful waters" amid China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, says the Diplomatic Bluebook 2016, which was reported to the Cabinet by Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida.

Many countries including Japan have expressed concerns about China's unilateral acts to change the status quo that heighten tensions in the South China Sea, such as its massive and fast-paced land reclamation, construction of outposts and the use of them for military purposes, the paper says.

The annual document was released as China is in a territorial dispute with smaller Asian claimants, including the Philippines and Indonesia, in the South China Sea where it constructed runways, advanced radars and deployed surface-to-air missiles, deemed as a way to assert maritime interests and territorial claims.

China has repeatedly and especially criticized Japan and the United States, calling them "outsiders" in territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

But the paper says the issue is of "grave concern" to Japan as the country seeks the safety of sea lane and the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea due to its reliance on imports of energy resources by sea.

Over the situation in the East China Sea, the document reiterates that Japan is determined to protect its territorial land and waters, criticizing Chinese ships' frequent intrusions into waters near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku group of islets in the sea. Beijing claims the islets, calling them Diaoyu.

The paper at the same time also stresses the importance of dialogue with China, saying ties with Beijing are "one of the most important bilateral relationships."

Japan will seek to strengthen bilateral ties with China through dialogue and cooperation at various levels, the paper says, noting that the "two countries share responsibility for regional and international peace and stability."

On South Korea, the paper says ties with Seoul will enter a "new era" of "future-oriented" relations following last year's bilateral deal to settle the issue of Korean women forced to work at wartime Japanese military brothels.

South Korea is Japan's "most important neighbor" which shares strategic interests with Japan, the paper says, adding that friendly relations between the two countries are essential for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

In December, South Korea and Japan agreed to resolve the so-called "comfort women" issue, a source of a drawn-out dispute between the two countries, "finally and irreversibly" with Tokyo pledging to provide 1 billion yen ($9 million) for a new South Korean foundation aimed at helping aging former comfort women.

But Japan maintains its position that Takeshima, islets that South Korea controls and calls Dokdo, are Japanese territory "based on historical facts and international law," the report says.

The blue book also mentions Japan's relations with Russia, saying Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is eager to move forward negotiations to resolve the decades-old territorial dispute over four Russian-held, Japanese-claimed islands off Hokkaido, which has prevented Tokyo and Moscow from signing a peace treaty following World War II.

The islands -- Etorofu, Kunashiri and Shikotan as well as the Habomai islet group -- were seized by the Soviet Union following Japan's surrender on Aug. 15, 1945. They are called the Southern Kurils in Russia and the Northern Territories in Japan.

The establishment of ties with Russia "contributes to Japanese interests and to regional peace and prosperity," the document says, adding that Japan seeks to realize a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin at the most appropriate date.

Nuclear and missile development by North Korea remains a source of "direct and grave threat" to Japan's safety and hurts the peace and safety of Northeast Asia and the international community, according to the document, which says Japan will "strongly urge the country to take concrete actions toward denuclearization."

Tokyo will keep pressing Pyongyang to resolve the issue of North Korea's abductions of Japanese nationals in the 1970s and 1980s, it also says.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/global-filipino/world/04/15/16/japan-report-cites-concern-about-chinas-rapid-militarization

Top Chinese officer visits disputed South China Sea reefs

From ABS-CBN (Apr 15): Top Chinese officer visits disputed South China Sea reefs

BEIJING - One of China's top military officers has visited some of the islands and reefs in the disputed South China Sea, China's Defense Ministry said on Friday.

Fan Changlong, one of the vice chairmen of the Central Military Commission which controls China's military, went "recently" to see soldiers based there and inspecting building work, the ministry said in a short statement.

It did not say which islands or reefs he had visited.

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said in Manila he will visit a U.S. aircraft carrier transiting the South China Sea on Friday, a move likely to upset China, which has been increasingly asserting its territorial claims.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/world/04/15/16/top-chinese-officer-visits-disputed-south-china-sea-reefs

Air Force, Navy conduct joint training on Ship Deck Landing (PHOTOS)

From Update.Ph (Apr 13): Air Force, Navy conduct joint training on Ship Deck Landing (PHOTOS)

Air Force 505th Search and Rescue Group Photo.

The Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy have conducted a joint proficiency training on Ship Deck Landing at Ulugan Bay, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on April 8.

“The proficiency take-off and landing maneuvers of Sokol helicopters from 505th Search and Rescue Group (505th SRG) was conducted aboard the Presidential Yacht “BRP Ang Pangulo”,” 505th SRG said.

“The activity was perfectly timed during the preparations for the visit of Prince Albert of Monaco,” the Air Force rescue group added.

According to 505th SRG, the said activity enabled the participants to learn and practice the necessary skills and techniques to enable them to quickly respond and land at BRP Ang Pangulo whenever the situation calls for it.

The entire training activity was safely conducted under the supervision of Lieutenant Colonel Felix M. Balanza PAF(MNSA), TOG 7 Commander.

Participants were Lieutenant Colonel Marc Anthony B. Fernandez (Instructor Pilot), Major Paul Ryan Yu (Pilot-in-Command), Major Dennis Sadama (Pilot-in-Command), Ssg Joseph A Abrigo (Crew Chief), A2C John Christopher Golfo (Heli Mech).

Air Force 505th Search and Rescue Group Photo.

Air Force 505th Search and Rescue Group Photo

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/air-force-navy-conduct-joint-training-on-ship-deck-landing-photos/4264

Philippines, Singapore push for centrality of ASEAN in West Philippine Sea issue

From Update.Ph (Apr 14): Philippines, Singapore push for centrality of ASEAN in West Philippine Sea issue



The Philippines and Singapore are pushing for centrality and solidarity of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in discussing the West Philippine Sea issue.

During Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene D. Almendras introductory visit to Singapore on April 12-1, Philippines agreed that in discussing and resolving regional issues, including the West Philippine Sea, ASEAN’s solidarity, unity and centrality is fundamental as it is vital, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The recently appointed diplomat visited to Singapore to pay a courtesy call on Prime Minister (PM) Lee Hsien Loong and his counterpart Foreign Minister (FM) Vivian Balakrishnan.

Secretary Almendras stressed “the Philippines has complete respect for the ASEAN process and fully supports ASEAN centrality in pushing forward our agenda for community building, including enhancing relations with dialogue partners such as China.”

“The Philippines appreciates very much all the support Singapore has shown the Philippines with great confidence and faith in the resilience of the Philippine economy… we also thank Singapore for being a gracious host to a considerable Filipino expatriate community here, who benefit from friendly programs and policies being implemented by your government,” Secretary Almendras told the Singaporean leaders.

DFA added that the Singapore PM and FM reiterated that as a non-claimant state, Singapore’s key interests lie in ensuring that the rule of law prevails over any dispute, preserving freedom of navigation and the unimpeded conduct of commerce in West Philippine Sea.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/philippines-singapore-push-for-centrality-of-asean-in-west-philippine-sea-issue/4306

Chinese vessels intrude Japanese waters, 1 armed with guns

From Update.Ph (Apr 14): Chinese vessels intrude Japanese waters, 1 armed with guns

Three China Coast Guard vessels briefly entered Japanese territorial waters Thursday morning around the disputed Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, the Japan Coast Guard said.

The intrusion, the 10th this year, continued for about 90 minutes before the vessels left Japanese waters shortly before noon, according to the 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters in Naha, Okinawa Prefecture.

One of the three ships appeared to be equipped with guns, the local coast guard said.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/chinese-vessels-intrude-japanese-waters-1-armed-with-guns/4309

US leaving 9 aircraft for Philippine deployment

From Update.Ph (Apr14): US leaving 9 aircraft for Philippine deployment  

After Balikatan 2016, at least 200 United States military airmen will be staying in the Philippines with several aircraft for air missions. The US military personnel will be replaced towards the end of the month.

US aircraft to remain in the Philippines include five A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, three HH-60G Pave Hawk search and rescue helicopters, and one MC-130H Combat Talon II special operations aircraft.

The rotational deployment is under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

“There is going to be regular, periodic presence here of American forces,” US Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said today in a joint press conference with National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. “But it may change in its nature, and timing and duration depending on what we and the Filipinos decide is optimal.”

Aside from 200 American airmen, 75 US military personnel, mostly Marines will also stay in the Philippines on rotational basis.

US Secretary Carter also revealed that US-PH joint maritime patrol in West Philippine Sea started in March.

“These patrols will continue to help build our interoperability and improve the Philippine Navy even as these patrols contribute to the safety and security of the region’s waters,” Carter said.

“Countries across the Asia-Pacific are voicing concern with China’s land reclamation, which stands out in size and scope, as well as its militarization in the South China Sea,” Carter said as quoted by GMA News Online. “They’re voicing those concerns publicly and privately, at the highest levels, in regional meetings, and global fora.”

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/us-leaving-9-aircraft-for-philippine-deployment/4331

Pentagon chief meets President Aquino

From Update.Ph (Apr 15): Pentagon chief meets President Aquino



President Benigno S. Aquino III today met with United States Defense Secretary Ashton Carter during a courtesy call in Malacañang Palace. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene Almendras are with President Aquino during his meeting with Carter.

The American defense chief was accompanied by US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Shear, US Defense Secretary’s Chief of Staff Eric Rosenbach, Senior Military Assistant to the Defense Secretary Brig. Gen. Eric Smith, and Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook.

Carter arrived in the country Wednesday.

Also present on the Philippines’ side were DND Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino; Cabinet Cluster on Security, Justice and Peace Undersecretary Emmanuel Bautista; Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri; and Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia, Jr.

During a joint press conference with Secretary Gazmin in Malacañang, Carter announced the conduct of joint patrols between US and Filipino forces in Philippine territories, especially in the South China Sea.

The joint patrols will involve the two countries’ navies and air forces, according to Carter.

Carter also said that some members of the US military participating in the ongoing Balikatan exercises will be left behind in selected Philippine bases to improve interoperability of both forces and enhance the capability of Filipino forces, both in conflict readiness and disaster response, as well as during accidents.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/pentagon-chief-meets-president-aquino/4337

China says stronger Philippines-US alliance harmful

From Update.Ph (Apr 15): China says stronger Philippines-US alliance harmful

  

The Chinese Defense Ministry said that joint patrols of Philippines and United States in West Philippine Sea is a way of militarizing the region and is harmful to stability.

“The joint patrols between the United States and the Philippines in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) has led to militarization in the region, which is harmful to regional peace and stability,” the Chinese Defense Ministry said, as quoted in news article written by Xinhua, hours after US Defense Secretary Carter confirmed that US-PH joint patrols in West Philippine Sea started last month and will continue.

Carter also announced that some US military personnel and aircraft that participated in Balikatan 2016 will be left in Philippines for deployment. The said deployment is part of EDCA which allows US troops to deploy in Philippines in rotational basis.

“The Chinese military will pay close attention to the situation, and resolutely defend China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime interests,” the Chinese ministry added.

“Strengthening military alliance, increasing frontline military deployment and holding joint military drills with specific targets reflected cold-war mentality,” it added.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/china-says-stronger-philippines-us-alliance-harmful/4342

Vietnam Defense officials in Philippines

From Update.Ph (Apr 15): Vietnam Defense officials in Philippines  



A delegation of Vietnamese defense officials visited the Philippine Air Force April 14. The Vietnamese delegation were primarily in the country for the Philippine-Vietnam Vice Minister Defense Dialog and Defense Cooperation Working Group Meeting.

The Vietnamese delegation is headed by Vietnam Ministry of National Defence-Institute for Defense Strategy Director General Lieutenant General Nguyen Duc Hai. Joining him are Major General Vu Tien Trong, Senior Colonel Hoang Kim Phung, Senior Colonel Nguyen Thanh Ha, Senior Colonel Nguyen Tien Bac, Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Van Tang, Major Pham Tan Phong, and Mr. Dao Quang Anh.

The delegation paid a courtesy call to Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Air Staff Major General (AFP) Galileo Gerard R. Kintanar Thursday. Lieutenant General Duc Hai was also accorded with foyer honors with Air Force Internal Auditor Brigadier General (AFP) Florentino S. Rasco Jr. as military host.

“In addition, PAF’s 505th Search and Rescue Group in Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City showcased their search and rescue capabilities in a static display to the delegates,” the Philippine Air Force said.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/vietnam-defense-officials-in-philippines/4349

US Defense chief visiting US supercarrier in West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Apr 15): US Defense chief visiting US supercarrier in West Philippine Sea  



United States Defense Secretary Ashton Carter is scheduled to visit United States Nimitz-class nuclear-powered supercarrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) today in West Philippine Sea.

“Later today, I will visit the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis, sailing in the South China Sea after some of its sailors and Marines participated with you in Balikatan,” he said during the closing ceremony of Balikatan 2016 earlier today.

“With each Balikatan and each cruise by the Stennis, with each new multilateral exercise and each new defense agreement, we add a stitch to the fabric of the region’s security network,” he added. “This is the network – peaceful, principled, and inclusive – America continues to stand for, and stand with.”

This is the second time Carter is visiting a US carrier sailing in the region. The first was in November 2015. He visited USS Theodore Roosevelt with Malaysian Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

In his speech, Carter likened security to oxygen. “It’s said that [in] this region, that security is like oxygen, [if] we have enough of it you pay no attention to it, but when you don’t have enough you can think of nothing else.”

“The United States will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder and we will continue to stand up for our safety and freedom, for those of our friends and allies and for the values, principles, and rule-based order that has benefited so many for so long. As long as we remain steadfast in that commitment as we had for decades we will continue to ensure the Philippines remains secure and the Asia-Pacific remains a region where everyone can rise and prosper for generations to come,” Carter stressed.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/us-defense-chief-visiting-us-supercarrier-in-west-philippine-sea/4353

Military derides video uploaded by NPA on captive law enforcers

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Military derides video uploaded by NPA on captive law enforcers

The military on Thursday derided the New People’s Army (NPA) for uploading a video of the captive law enforcers begging the government to negotiate for their release.

The video, uploaded on YouTube, a free video sharing website, by the NPA last Tuesday, was meant to coerce and sow fear among the people, Capt. Patrick Martinez, the spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said.

The 4th Infantry Division condemned the act of uploading the video online as there are contents that are not suitable for general audiences, especially the minors, Martinez said.

“Definitely, the NPAs do not care for the effect to whoever would see the video. We condemn the NPA for their grave violation of human rights and for continually creating havoc from among the peace-loving people,” Martinez said.

He said that the video highlighted the NPA's terrorist nature, similar to the Abu Sayyaf and ISIS, where the kidnapped victims are videoed behind the terrorist flags and are intimidated to pronounce statements of propaganda content.

One of the videos that ran for 4:43 minutes, showed Inspector Rene Rombo, of Misamis Oriental police, pleading for the national and local government officials and the third party commission to negotiate for his early release.

Handcuffed and wearing a black jacket, with the insignia of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Rombo was observed reading a prepared statement, Martinez said.

“It is very obvious that there is coercion and what the NPA has done was plain kidnapping, a crime punishable by law,” Martinez said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=876650

ASG brigands adopts diversionary tactic, set off bomb in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): ASG brigands adopts diversionary tactic, set off bomb in Basilan

The government authorities strongly believed the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands was behind the bomb explosion late Thursday in Basilan province.

The explosion occurred around 9:40 p.m. Thursday in Barangay Malinis, Lamitan City, Basilan province.

The military, which is hot on the trail of the ASG brigands, said the move is a diversionary tactics of the brigands to ease the pressure on them.

“It might be a diversionary tactic (of the ASG brigands). They are trying to get the attention of our operating troops to shift from the ongoing operation towards the explosion,” said Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

Government troops are continuously pursuing the ASG brigands in the hinterlands of Tipo-Tipo municipality, which is more than 30 kilometers away from Lamitan City.

The bomb was placed in a fire hydrant beside a gasoline station and a store in Calle Bisaya, Barangay Malinis, Lamitan City.

Senior Insp. Gean Gallardo, Lamitan City police chief, was slightly injured when the bomb went off.

Prior to the explosion, the Lamitan City police received a report that a baggage with suspicious content was left in Barangay Malinis prompting Gallardo and his men to respond and cordoned the area.

The bomb went off while Gallardo and his men were cordoning the place.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=876944

Nueva Ecija village chief killed

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Nueva Ecija village chief killed
 

CABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija -- An incumbent barangay captain who was running as municipal councilor in Talavera town this coming election was gunned down by unidentified suspect shortly before midnight Thursday.

The victim, Gerald Fermin, head of Barangay San Pascual, Talavera was running under the Liberal Party and an ally of Talavera town mayor Nerivi Santos Martinez.

Police said the victim was shot at close range.

Investigation showed that Fermin was attending the wake of a constituent and talking with two Bantay Bayan members, along with a certain Mario Samaira on the shoulder of the national highway when the gunman opened fire at around 11:30 p.m. Thursday.

Police said the victim sustained several gunshot wounds on his head and body, particularly on his back.

Scene of the crime operatives recovered several empty shells from 9mm pistol.

Police could not comment if the killing was politically motivated.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=876854

2 soldiers wounded in Sorsogon clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): 2 soldiers wounded in Sorsogon clash

Two members of the Philippine Army were wounded in a two-hour encounter with New People's Army rebels at Sitio Kamandag, Barangay San Pascual, Casiguran, Sorsogon at about 2:05 a.m. Thursday.

A police report identified the soldiers as Pfc. Eddie Aquino and Pfc. Sherwin Cama, both belonging to the Squad BTO, of the Alpha Company, 31st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based at Barangay Aniog, Juban, Sorsogon.

The report said the government troopers headed by Army Capt. Abdul Nasser Salem were conducting a combat patrol operation when they chanced upon 20 NPA rebels, immediately resulting in an exchange of fire.

After a 45-minute firefight, the Army men noticed that Aquino and Cama sustained gunshot wounds, prompting them to call for reinforcement.

A platoon of the Bravo Company led by Capt. Wilfredo Dalisay came to the aid of their companions and evacuated the two wounded soldiers.

With the enhanced number of the PA soldiers, the dissidents were forced to withdraw towards Barangay Burgos in Casiguran town.

The soldiers asked help from police stations in nearby towns to conduct checkpoints in strategic places to block the retreating rebels and inspect nearby hospitals and clinics where wounded rebels could possibly seek treatment.

Meanwhile, Aquino and Cama are now in good condition in an unidentified hospital.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=876721

AFP conducts probe over 'torture' in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): AFP conducts probe over 'torture' in Basilan

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has activated a probe body to investigate the alleged torture of three people who were arrested at the clash site in Basilan province.

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, on Friday said the probe body was formed by the Joint Task Force Zambasulta headed by Maj. Gen. Gerardo Barrientos, who also heads the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

The activation of the probe body came after the alleged torture of three people, who were arrested by government troops on Wednesday while scouring Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

Baguindan is the site of the fierce firefight between the government forces and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands last Saturday.

Since then, sporadic firefights have ensued as the troops are continuously pursuing the ASG bandits.

“They (probe body members) are now in the process of taking affidavits,” Tan said, citing the probe body members are already in Basilan conducting the investigation.

Tan said the probe body members will interview the soldiers who were accused to be involved and the victims as well as the other people concerned.

He assured that the investigation will be balanced and fair to erased doubts of possible whitewash.

He said the results of the investigation will be made public once the probe over the alleged incident is completed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=876881

Inter-operability between US, PHL forces now at an all-time high with 'Balikatan' 2016

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Inter-operability between US, PHL forces now at an all-time high with 'Balikatan' 2016

As this year's "Balikatan" exercises were formally concluded Friday, a ranking US military official said inter-operability between American and Filipinos are at an all-time high.

"I’ve had the opportunity to lead and participate in many exercises with the AFP and without question, this year’s 'Balikatan' sets a new high watermark in the inter-operability and coordination between our forces. Over the last two weeks I’ve visited exercise locations throughout the country, meeting with many of our Philippine, Australian, American and Japanese forces and seen firsthand the great progress that we are making in training together," US "Balikatan" exercise director Lt. Gen. John Toolan said.

He added that both US and Philippine military units involved in the two-week maneuvers have done a "great job".

"Balikatan" 2016 started last April 4. Participants were 3, 773 Filipino soldiers and 4, 904 US troops.

"I am pleased to note that 'Balikatan' was a culmination of a year-long series of other events supporting the Armed Forces of the Philippines' capability development, carried out in the direction of the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board. This year’s 'Balikatan' was vied for the most complex and high-end training of the exercise, close coordination between multi national forces and the air, land and sea. We were able to see the Philippine Air Force’s new FA-50 'Fighting Eagle,' and the C-295 maritime patrol aircraft in action, performing their valuable missions," Toolan stressed.

"We watched the new LCH, the heavy landing craft, moving US and Philippine Marines in between islands. Accompanied by the high speed vessel the (USS) Millinocket, being used in a non traditional manner to support the assault. We also saw the first time use of the high- mobility artillery rocket system in the exercise, and were able to rapidly transport it in between exercise sites, and multiple-sites across multiple hours," he added.

And true to its name, "Balikatan" ( literally shoulder-to-shoulder) also featured a lot of integrated training between Philippine, Australian, and US armies, navies, air force, marines and special operations forces.

"This year’s Balikatan also has great historical significance, that reflects how our four nations - the Philippines, Australia, Japan and US can nurture our relationship to move forward, training and working together as like-minded nations for the common good. I believe our alliance is strong and in great shape," Toolan said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876839

President Aquino meets with US Defense Chief during courtesy call in Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14): President Aquino meets with US Defense Chief during courtesy call in Palace

President Benigno S. Aquino III met with United States Defense Secretary Ashton Carter during a courtesy call in Malacañang on Thursday.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene Almendras joined President Aquino during his meeting with Carter.

The American defense chief, who arrived in the country on Wednesday, was accompanied by US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg; Ambassador David Shear, US assistant secretary of defense; Eric Rosenbach, the defense secretary’s chief of staff; Brig. Gen. Eric Smith, senior military assistant to the defense secretary; and Peter Cook, Pentagon Press Secretary and chief spokesman for the Department of Defense.

Also present on the Philippines’ side were Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino, Department of National Defense; Undersecretary Emmanuel Bautista of the Cabinet Cluster on Security, Justice and Peace; Gen. Hernando Iriberri, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr.

During a joint press conference with Secretary Gazmin in Malacañang, Carter announced the conduct of joint patrols between US and Filipino forces in Philippine territories, especially in the South China Sea.

The joint patrols will involve the two countries' navies and air forces, according to Carter.

Carter also said that some members of the US military participating in the ongoing Balikatan exercises will be left behind in selected Philippine bases to improve interoperability of both forces and enhance the capability of Filipino forces, both in conflict readiness and disaster response, as well as during accidents.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876659

Another ASG killed in Basilan clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Another ASG killed in Basilan clash

Another Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed while four troopers were wounded during operations at Amoloy, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan Thursday night.

This brought the ASG death toll to 32 with troopers slain at 18, and the number of wounded now at 57 since April 9.

According to Major Filemon Tan, Western Mindanao Command spokesperson, the clash took place at 9:30 p.m.

The body of the slain brigand was recovered and operations are still ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876753

Decommissioned MILF combatants continue transformation into unarmed civilians

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Decommissioned MILF combatants continue transformation into unarmed civilians

Altogether, 133 decommissioned former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants are successfully accomplishing their skills and entrepreneurship training programs this week.

The series of trainings that the former combatants underwent is part of the implementation of the agreement under the Terms of Reference of the Normalization Annex of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the peace deal signed between the government and the MILF on May 27, 2014.

On June 16 last year, 145 former MILF combatants underwent the (initial) decommissioning process in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao with the ceremonial turnover of 51 high-powered and 24 crew-serve weapons of the MILF. These decommissioned combatants underwent a registration, verification, and validation process and were provided with socioeconomic packages to assist them in their transformation to peaceful civilian lives.

Out of the 145 decommissioned combatants, 133 decided to undergo different sets of skills training programs that were conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as part of the socioeconomic track of the normalization process.

The skills trainings include bread and pastry production, driving, carpentry, cookery, motorcycle/small engine repair, dressmaking/tailoring, automotive servicing, electrical installation and maintenance, and entrepreneurial skills training.

Aside from these, the former combatants also underwent trainings on Values Transformation and remedial classes on reading, writing and numeracy. They were also provided with cash-for-training assistance by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

“With the assistance of the TESDA, DepEd and the Department of Social Work and Development and other government agencies, the decommissioned combatants are now accomplishing their respective trainings to prepare them towards transformation to unarmed civilians,” said GPH peace panel chair Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer.

She said that the active participation of the former combatants in the entire training and in the normalization process “shows their sincerity in peace-building and in concretely transforming from an armed group into peaceful, civilian lives.”

Ferrer also reiterated that despite the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), “we are still pushing for these activities for the government remains committed to what have been agreed upon in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.”

“Even though the proposed BBL was not passed by the 16th Congress, the gains achieved in the Bangsamoro peace process throughout the decades have been tremendous. There is solid basis for the people of the Bangsamoro to remain hopeful and continue looking forward toward a better, peaceful future," she added.

From combat skills to livelihood skills

“The skills and entrepreneurial training program offers great opportunities for the decommissioned combatants,” said Hadzer Birowa, director of the socioeconomic unit of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Birowa said the skills they learned, along with the livelihood packages that they will receive upon the completion of the entire training program, is envisioned to prepare them for sustainable livelihood when they fully transform from being combatants and mainstreamed into civilian communities.

Abdulaziz Andik, one of the decommissioned combatants who has devoted 39 years to fighting, chose to train in carpentry.

He shared his feelings on the decommissioning program: “Napakaganda ng training na ito kasi magagamit ko ito para sa mga anak ko, saka mapagkakakitaan ko rin dun sa lugar namin. Kaya nagpapasalamat din kami sa mga nagtiyagang nagturo sa amin na mabigay nila yung kaalaman nila kahit na medyo nahihirapan sila magturo kasi nga matanda na kami kaya mabagal lang yung pag-iintindi ko pero pinipilit namin kasi gusto naming matututo, saka para sa pamilya naman namin ito (The training is very useful to us because this is for my children and a good source of livelihood in our area. We thank those people who were very patient in teaching us, who may have found it hard to teach us because we are already old, but we are trying our best to understand and follow their instructions because we want to gain knowledge and it is also for the benefit of our families).”

Another trainee, Hadji Usman Akmad, retold his long history in the Bangsamoro army. He first became a member of the Ansarul Islam in 1971, then joined the Black Shirts, and for 39 years, was part of the Moro National Liberation Front. Now, as a member of the MILF, Hadji Usman is a decommissioned combatant.

At 73, he enrolled in the dressmaking course to help his only daughter in her small tailoring business. He feels positive towards the decommissioning program. “Masaya ako dahil wala na ako sa kabundukan. Pwede na akong pumunta sa Cotabato na walang sabit dahil civilian na ako. (I feel happy because I no longer live in the mountains. I can now go to Cotabato City without any trouble because I am now a civilian).”

After choosing their training courses, each participant underwent a 35-day training (30-day skills and five-day entrepreneurial) in different sites -- in the TESDA skills training facility in Rebuken, Sultan Kudarat, in the Old Capitol of Maguindanao and in the INFo Training Center in ‎Crossing Simuay, Maguindanao. Starter toolkits will be given to them on April 25 this year upon completion of the entire program.‎

The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) assistance will be delivered based on the counselling activities done and validated during home visitations.

Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua, TESDA Deputy Director General for Operations, emphasized that the trainings designed for the decommissioned combatants are unique and special for it involved entrepreneurial skills and provision of tool kits.

Pascua said he has “high hopes that what the participants undertook will bring hope and peace in the participants' lives and in their communities.”

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876788

Bangsamoro peace process to help curb local, int'l terror threats --GPH Panel chair

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Bangsamoro peace process to help curb local, int'l terror threats --GPH Panel chair

The ongoing military operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan highlight the need to continue with the Bangsamoro peace process in order to curb activities of extremist and terrorist groups, Government of the Philippines chief peace negotiator Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said in a national televised interview on Thursday

“The event in Basilan indicates a very deep and complex problem that you cannot simply solve through military means,” Ferrer said. “It requires the kind of a much nuanced approach across the communities, across the tribes, and across the different armed groups."

Ferrer stressed that the project of putting in place sustainable peace and development should not be held hostage by the violent episodes.

The operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the ASG continue to make headlines after a 10-hour firefight last week resulted in the deaths of 18 soldiers. The AFP had been able to neutralize at least 28 bandits, including Moroccan bomb-maker Mohammad Khattab and ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon’s son Ubaida Hapilon.

Ferrer said the ASG problem was just an effect of a deeper socioeconomic issue.

“This is basically why we are having the peace process – our goal is to find a solution that would gradually, step-by-step, be able to quell the threat of violent extremist groups and also to bring about social justice so that the roots of the problem can be fully addressed,” she added.

The chief negotiator pointed out that international support for the Bangsamoro peace process is broad because the governments worldwide are acutely aware of the threat to human security across nations posed by various violent extremist groups.

“One Moroccan jihadist was killed by the government forces in the Basilan encounter," Ferrer noted.

The chief negotiator underscored that the passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) should not be hijacked by the hostilities taking place and that it must be refiled in the next Congress for the peace process to continue.

“The new administration and Congress can provide a fresh start to the refiling of the BBL,” Ferrer said.

She appealed to the political aspirants in the May 9 elections to see the bigger picture of the Bangsamoro peace process and understand the causes of the armed struggle.

“There is a big gap between us and in appreciating our Muslim brothers and sisters. There is a clear disparity between the majority and the minority that we should resolve,” she said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876846

'Balikatan' demonstrates US security commitment to PHL - Carter

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): 'Balikatan' demonstrates US security commitment to PHL - Carter

As this year's "Balikatan" exercises formally ended Friday, United States Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said the annual military maneuvers demonstrate America's ironclad commitment to Philippine security.

"We appreciate your dedication to this exercise and to our alliance, for 65 years our two nations have been standing together and America’s commitment to the Philippines, we made is ironclad," he said.

"Balikatan" 2016 started last April 4 with 3,773 Filipino soldiers and 4, 904 US troops participating.

Carter said that "Balikatan" is another demonstration of the long-standing and now rapidly growing network of security in the Asia-Pacific Region.

"I (would) like to thank our Australian allies for their participation for the third year, to the observer nation officials here today, including those from Japan and elsewhere and others who attended the course of the exercise. I'm pleased to see so many nations interested in working together to promote stability and security in the Asia-Pacific (Region)," he stressed.

Other observer nations include Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Republic of Korea, Timor Leste, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Carter also took time to condole with the family and friends of A2C Jove Dumansi, who died in a parachuting exercise in Subic Bay, Zambales last April 7.

"Marking the successful conclusion of this multifaceted exercise, tragedy struck in the early days of 'Balikatan' 2016, the death of a Philippine Airman Second Class Jover Dumansi, I (want to) express my condolences on behalf of the men and women of the Department of Defense and all Americans to Airman Dumansi’s family and friends as well as to the Philippine armed forces, government and people," he emphasized.

Carter said this loss is a reminder of the risks that all "Balikatan" participants and their families accept just to see the successful continuation of this exercise.

"In the face of such tragedy is a reminder of our shared commitment to always see the mission through. All of you and the more than 7,000 personnel who joined you have done just that here in 'Balikatan' and you’ve done so an exemplary fashion, together you provided medical care to local communities, together you can prove the combined command-and-control, together you rehearsed maritime interdiction operations so we can respond more quickly to threats on the sea and together you simulated the recovery of oil and gas platform for possible forces in the South China, through it all you made our strong alliance even stronger," the American defense secretary said.

By participating in the annual military maneuvers, troops from both the Philippines and the US are trained and prepared to confront very real challenges.

"You’ve demonstrated to the region and to the world that the United States and the Philippines are standing together to defend the rules and principles that have benefited so many in the region, rules and principles like the peaceful resolution of dispute, countries have been able to make their own security and economic choices free from coercion and intimidation, and freedom of navigation and overflight," Carter emphasized.

"And have also set the stage for a new level of cooperation between the Philippines and the United States for the success of 'Balikataan' 2016 and two major recent policy steps forward, the US-Philippines Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and the new US Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative, we’re going to be doing more together, and as I announced yesterday some Americans here for this exercise will be staying behind on a rotational basis to continue joint training and working with our Philippine allies to contribute to regional security and stability," he added.

"I thank these service members for taking on this important assignments. You also contributed to the Asia-Pacific’s ongoing stability and security, it (is) said that (in) this region, that security is like oxygen, (when) we have enough of it you pay no attention to it, but when you don’t have enough you can think of nothing else," Carter disclosed.

And through "Balikatan" and other similar exercises, the US defense secretary said American and Filipinos troops provide that oxygen, the security that enables millions upon millions of people all around the Asia-Pacific to be safe, to raise their children and to dream their dreams, to live their lives.

"The United States will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder and we will continue to stand up for our safety and freedom, for those of our friends and allies and for the values, principles, and rule-based order that has benefited so many for so long. As long as we remain steadfast in that commitment as we had for decades we will continue to ensure the Philippines remains secure and the Asia-Pacific remains a region where everyone can rise and prosper for generations to come," Carter stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=876821

Bulatlat: Freed political prisoner calls for release of Cotabato farmers

From the pro-Communist Party of the Philippines/National Democratic Front online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Apr 14): Freed political prisoner calls for release of Cotabato farmers

“They do not deserve to be in jail just like other political prisoners, whose rights have been violated from the very beginning.”

Recently-released political prisoner Voltaire Guray should be rejoicing as he left jail, but he instead found himself furious at the unjust detention of the latest set of political prisoners: the 79 protesting farmers in Kidapawan city, North Cotabato.

“The killing of the protesting farmers in Kidapawan is very enraging. They were asking for rice because their crops were destroyed from months of drought, and this is what they get?” Guray told Bulatlat, inflamed at his own undeserved incarceration.

Guray, 29, had been detained for the past four years at the Special Intensive Care Area inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. He learned of the Kidapawan killing from television news reports while in detention.

Last March 29, Judge Kevin Narce Vivero of the Antipolo Regional Trial Court Branch 71 granted Guray’s bail petition. He posted his bail for illegal possession of explosives and ammunitions on April 8 and 11, respectively, amounting to P45,000.
He was released on April 12.

Guray said that beyond the issue of bail, the Cotabato farmers should not even be detained in the first place.

“They do not deserve to be in jail just like other political prisoners, whose rights have been violated from the very beginning. Charges against the farmers should be dismissed immediately,” he said.

Last April 1, state security forces opened fired on protesting farmers in Kidapawan City, killing at least two and injuring dozens others. Police arrested 79 protesters farmers, including three pregnant women and six elderly, who were charged with direct assault.

Unlawful arrest

Guray with one of his paintings, which was inspired by a photo of alternative news Southern Tagalog Exposure on the protesting farmers of Bondoc Peninsula taken some years back (Photo by J. Ellao / Bulatlat.com)

Guray was arrested on Jan. 13, 2012 in Antipolo City. He was charged with illegal possession of explosives and ammunitions.

“I was a youth activist in the area during my arrest. I was new there, helping provide a literacy program for Dumagat farmers. Then, there came news that there were members of New People’s Army and because I was an outsider, state security forces came for me,” he said.

Then only 25, Guray was brought to the custodial center of the Antipolo police, where he was detained for four days. Then, he was brought to SICA in Camp Bagong Diwa.

Guray said he found the first few months difficult, with limited ways to contact his family and friends. It did not help that the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) prevented Guray, an artist, from bringing painting materials.

“During the first year, I always wanted to see my family. I was growing impatient. But later on, I finally found out what I can do while inside prison and I saw the bigger picture,” he said.

Later, the BJMP allowed painting materials to be brought for his use while in detention. He said his paintings depicted the dire social realities confronting the Filipino people.

“It is difficult to complain of the dire predicament inside SICA when I know that detainees and prisoners in other detention centers are facing way harsher conditions,” he said.

Guray joined various campaigns of his fellow political prisoners in their effort to improve the conditions inside the detention center. They struggled for their rights to have sunning and exercises every morning, which the BJMP eventually granted.

Apart from that, political prisoners also held protests and a hunger strike. They held an indignation protest for the death of baby Diona Andrea, the newly-born daughter of then detained Andrea Rosal. They also staged a hunger strike during Pope Francis’ visit in early 2015.

On posting bail

For four years, Guray said state security forces attempted to pin him down with their supposed “strong evidence” against him. But he said only his arresting officer took the witness stand and without the explosives and ammunitions Guray supposedly had in his possession.

He added that not even the custodian of the supposed evidence against him took the witness stand.

“This is the basis for the granting of my bail,” he said.

Asked if he felt that the last four years went to waste, Guray said no. “Perhaps if I sulked and rendered myself useless, then I can say that the last four years of my life was wasted. But I and the rest of the political prisoners did not. Even inside prison, we remained part of the mass movement.”

“After all, we are (living) proof that rights are being violated under this government,” he said.

The case against Guray has yet to be dismissed. Hearings are set until the end of the year. In between, he said, he would be busy extending help to fellow political prisoners for their inevitable freedom.

http://bulatlat.com/main/2016/04/14/freed-political-prisoner-calls-for-release-of-cotabato-farmers/