Wednesday, July 27, 2016

MILF, MNLF to reciprocate Rody’s commitment to peace

From the Philippine Star (Jul 27): MILF, MNLF to reciprocate Rody’s commitment to peace

The now converged Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) yesterday promised to reciprocate the commitment of President Duterte to the Mindanao peace process.

Duterte laid down his administration’s desire to put in place a negotiated closure to the 45-year Mindanao secessionist conflict during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) last Monday.

Efforts to address the Moro issue have been a drawn-out initiative, spanning seven presidents since the crafting of the Dec. 23, 1976 Tripoli Agreement in Libya by MNLF founder Nur Misuari and a panel led by Manuel Yan, representing then president Ferdinand Marcos.

The agreement, brokered by former Libya strongman Muammar Gaddafi and supported by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, was the main reference used in the drafting of the Sept. 2, 1996 truce between the MNLF and Malacañang and, subsequently, the government’s accord with the MILF, the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB).

“There is a possibility he (Duterte) would be the last president we are to negotiate with. We are inspired by his being positive on the peace process. We will reciprocate with honor and vigor,” said Muslimin Sema, chair of the largest of three groups in the MNLF.

Unlike the faction led by Misuari, the MNLF-Sema group is larger and more politically active and is not hostile to the MILF.

Misuari has strongly been opposing Malacañang’s diplomatic dealings with the MILF.

He had even accused former president Benigno Aquino III of having “abrogated” the MNLF’s final truce with the government by forging a separate deal with the MILF, the vaunted CAB.

“It is easier to solve the Mindanao problem now while the moderate, older Moro leaders are still alive. The next generation of Moro leaders will surely be radical and dealing with them might be tediously difficult,” Sema said.

The MILF’s vice chairman for political affairs Ghazali Jaafar said they are certain Duterte would keep his pledge to abide by all agreements between Malacañang and Moro groups.

Duterte first promised to do so during the campaign and, subsequently, in an inaugural speech during his assumption to the presidency on June 30.

Jaafar said their trust in Duterte is bolstered by his being from Davao City and his having Maranaw and lumad ancestry.

“No one will understand better the Moro issue but a Mindanaon,” Jaafar said.

The MNLF-Sema group and the MILF had twice crafted in the past six months bilateral agreements binding both rebel groups to converge in pushing forward a common peace blueprint for the Moro rebellion.

The MILF started in the early 1980s as a small bloc of MNLF officials, led by the Egyptian-trained cleric Salamat Hashim, that eventually broke away and established a bigger group more religious in character due to loss of confidence in Misuari’s leadership.

Duterte also challenged the MILF and MNLF to prove that they do not have any ties with the Abu Sayyaf bandits.

He believes that the peace negotiations will not succeed if the MILF and MNLF are tied to the local terrorist group.

“I want to hear from the MILF and MNLF that they no longer have connection with the Abu Sayyaf because the firearms of the Abu Sayyaf were also their firearms,” Duterte told soldiers in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

“If they refuse to sever ties or if they are still connected with the Abu Sayyaf, I don’t think there will be a significant result,” he added.

Duterte mentioned the connection between the Abu Sayyaf and the peace talks during his SONA.
“Remember that I do not hit the Abu Sayyaf that much because it is really connected with the peace talks between (MLNF founder Nur) Misuari,” he said.

Early this month, Duterte said he does not consider Abu Sayyaf members as criminals despite their involvement in several kidnapping, beheading and bombing incidents. He believes the Abu Sayyaf had staged violent activities because they were “driven to desperation” by “failed promises.”

The President, nevertheless, promised to put an end to the group’s activities.

Even Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu sees peaceful days ahead for the Moro people now that four top agencies are led by officials from Mindanao.

Mangudadatu was referring to Emmanuel Piñol, Ismael Sueño, physician Paulyn Ubial and lawyer Jesus Dureza, whom Duterte had enlisted as his agriculture, local government and health secretaries and presidential peace adviser, respectively.

Dureza, overseeing the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), hails from Davao City. He is a known friend of political and rebel leaders in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“How can we not see a white dove at the end of the tunnel? Three of these four officials, Secretaries Piñol, Sueño and Ubial, are from Central Mindanao. They grew up with Moro friends,” Mangudadatu said last Monday.

Sueño is from South Cotabato while Piñol and Ubial are both residents of North Cotabato. Both provinces are within the immediate periphery of Maguindanao, which covers 37 towns in two congressional districts.

“All of them also understand deeply the decades-old Moro issue and the importance of the ongoing bilateral peace initiatives of Malacañang and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” Mangudadatu said.

ARMM’s newly appointed local government secretary Kirby Abdullah was elated with Duterte’s decision to appoint Piñol, Sueno, Ubial and Dureza.

Meanwhile, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde said Duterte’s first SONA was also the first in history without violence.

“There was no violent confrontation between anti-riot policemen and rallyists. This is a first in the history of the SONA,” said Albayalde, noting that the rally staged by left-leaning groups was peaceful and orderly.

According to Albayalde, traffic was manageable because Commonwealth Ave. in Quezon City remained open after the demonstrators staged their rally only 150 meters away from the south gate of the Batasang Pambansa complex.

“We had no quarrel with the protesters this time as they are mostly allied with President Duterte and also have vowed to shun violence,” he added.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/07/27/1607109/milf-mnlf-reciprocate-rodys-commitment-peace

NPA shuts down Ilocos’ carbon-in-pulp plant

From the Manila Times (Jul 26): NPA shuts down Ilocos’ carbon-in-pulp plant

Candon City, Ilocos Sur: New People’s Army (NPA) guerillas shut down over the weekend a carbon-in-pulp (CIP) plant in Patiacan village in Quirino town in this province over alleged environmental violations.

The NPA’s Antonio Licawen Front Operational Command, in a statement sent to journalists, said the CIP plant in sitio Makawkawa, Barangay Patiacan, was closed down because the owner did not heed their warning on January 1, 2016 against the use of harmful chemicals.

The NPA warned it “does not allow any kind of leaching pad especially those that use cyanide, which is one of the most toxic poisons which can harm the health of humans, animals and plants alike.”
 
The group said villagers in Quirino have long been protesting against the cyanide leaching pad because the plant has been operating above the water source of Barangay Patungcaleo.

The CIP was also blamed for the fish kills along the Balas-iyan River last year allegedly caused by “irresponsible mining” in Barangay Patiacan.

The rebels claim that the CIP operator was given enough time to voluntarily dismantle the leaching pad.

The NPA warning was widely distributed to concerned citizens (operators, village and municipal officials) and the people of Quirino and adjacent towns.

On March 16 this year, rebels claimed to have conducted a village meeting in Barangay Patiacan to explain the contents of the warning statement, attended by the CIP operator in Makawkawa, elders and barangay{village) officials.

Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Luis Singson has not commented on the shutdown of the CIP plant, although he earlier vowed to look into the issues surrounding the alleged destructive mining activities in the province.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the NPA and the National Democratic Front-Cordillera People’s Democratic Front (NDF/CPDF) further warned that they “will not allow any activities which will gravely destroy the environment and health of communities,” while “mining of gold and copper in small-scale operations will be allowed as long as the miners ensure the protection of the environment, health and agriculture.”

The operation of CIPs plants is highly prohibited, according to the NPA Command between the Abra-Ilocos Sur-Mountain Province boundaries.

“[This] should serve as warning to the other operators in Barangay Patiacan and other areas to stop destructive methods in extracting gold,” the NPAs said, adding that continuing, “this also serves warning to large scale mining companies and their mercenary protectors in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police. The NPA is serious in enforcing its task of defending life, land and resources of the Filipino people.”

http://www.manilatimes.net/npa-shuts-down-ilocos-carbon-in-pulp-plant/276159/

6 BIFF men, soldier killed in Maguindanao clashes – Army

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 27): 6 BIFF men, soldier killed in Maguindanao clashes – Army

Bangsamoro


Members of the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). Latest reports claim that a faction has broken away from the current BIFF leadership.  INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

Six gunmen of a breakaway faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and a soldier were killed in a series of clashes in Maguindanao on Tuesday, the Army said.

 Four soldiers and 10 breakaway BIFF men were also injured in the fighting that erupted at 4:30 a.m. in Barangay Pamalian in Shariff Saydona town, according Col. Lito Sobejana.

Sobejana, the commander of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade, said fighting continued until noon. He confirmed that the military used two MG-520 attack helicopters in support of ground troops and to retrieve wounded soldiers.

Sobejana said the BIFF forces involved in the clashes were under Kagi Karialan, who had proclaimed himself as the new BIFF leader. Karialan earlier ousted Commander Bungos, a trusted lieutenant of BIFF founder Ameril Umra Kato, who had died a few months back, as BIFF chair.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, urged Commander Karialan to voluntarily surrender to the government to avoid further bloodshed.

“It would be best that they surrender so that there will be no more bloodshed,” Pangilinan said in a statement.

Both Sobejana and Pangilinan said the remains of the slain BIFF gunmen had been retrieved and had been turned over to local officials so that their relatives can claim them.

As this developed, members of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front ceasefire committees have proceeded to Sharif Saydona to ensure that no misencounter would take place between government forces and the MILF.

Abu Misri Mama, spokesman of the original BIFF disowned Karialan’s operations against Army troops.  “We have no hand in this encounter, we are not part of it,” said Abu Misri Mama, who labeled Karialan’s group as a breakaway faction.

BIFF itself broke away from the MILF in 2008 over ideological differences in the handling of the peace negotiations with the Philippine government.
 
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/799973/6-biff-men-soldier-killed-in-maguindanao-clashes-army

Military: 3 camps can house drug rehab centers

From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 27): Military: 3 camps can house drug rehab centers

THE Armed Forces yesterday said there are three military camps where drug rehabilitation centers can be set up.

These are Fort Magsaysay in Palayan City in Nueva Ecija, which is home to the Army’s 7th Infantry Division and the Army’s Special Operations Command; Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal, home to the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division; and Camp Kibaritan, an Army training facility in Kalilangan town in Bukidnon.

AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla issued the statement after President Duterte, in his first State of the Nation Address last Monday, said the Armed Forces will prepare its camps and facilities for use as drug rehabilitation centers.

Padilla said the three camps have “large spaces” to accommodate rehabilitation centers.

“If there is a need to provide military-style training (for the drug dependents undergoing rehabilitation), we will provide that.  If barracks are needed, we will also make them available,” Padilla also said.

The military would, however, need the expertise of other government agencies like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Department of Health for the rehabilitation program, Padilla said.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-3-camps-can-house-drug-rehab-centers

COA red-flags P1.35B AFP pension payments

From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 28): COA red-flags P1.35B AFP pension payments

THE Commission on Audit has raised concerns over possible irregularities in the pension system of retired personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the second half of 2014 and the whole of 2015 amounting to P1.354 billion.

In the 2015 audit report on the AFP General Headquarters released last July 13, the COA noted “high incidence of overpayment of pension benefits to deceased pensioners” totaling P126.82 million; continuing deposit of benefits to “tagged or doubtful pensioners’ accounts” in the sum of P1.078 billion; and “high occurrence of stale checks” worth P147.51 billion.

Auditors however said the scope of their investigation was limited by the restricted access to the Pension Management Information System (PenMIS) and the Finance Management Information System (FMIS) which are being maintained by the AFP Pension Gratuity and Management Center (PGMC) and the AFP Finance Center (AFPFC).

To test the validity of benefit payments to retired personnel, the audit team randomly selected 18 pensioners including 13 who are recorded as 100 years old and above by sending them confirmation letters and checking their status with the Philippine Statistics Authority.

“Results revealed that the 18 pensioners who were confirmed deceased continue to receive their monthly pension with aggregate amount of P19,770,967.59,” the report noted.

The findings showed two died in 2008; three each for years 2009, 2014, and 2015; one each for years 2010, 2011 and 2013; and four in 2012.

“On top of the 18 deceased pensioners, [an] additional 722 were likewise paid pension benefits CY 2015 and from June to December 2014 amounting to P79,665,689. Hence, overpayments to unreported deceased pensioners mounted to at least P126,834,570,” the COA said.

As of January 31, 2016, only P44.2 million of the said overpayment was recouped and returned to the AFP Pension mother account while auditors said there is little chance the balance would still be retrieved.

“P82,628,918.05 was still unrecovered...the amount is considered leakage costs due to its remote chance of being recovered,” auditors said.

The COA raised questions why the PGMC and the AFPFC failed to track or monitor the status of pensioners as they advanced in age.

“Management is not properly informed of how much pension benefits were paid to unqualified pensioners/beneficiaries in prior years and how much is unrecovered and unrecorded. [It has] inadequate if not nil knowledge on the degree of pervasiveness of the condition observed as this has been happening in previous years,” the commission said.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/coa-red-flags-p135b-afp-pension-payments

Retired generals tapped for DND

From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 28): Retired generals tapped for DND

FOUR retired military generals, including former Armed Forces chief Gen. Ricardo David, yesterday took their oaths as undersecretaries in the Department of National Defense.

David, who served as AFP chief from July 2010 to March 2011, took over as the undersecretary for defense policy – replacing lawyer Pio Lorenzo Batino from the administration of President Aquino.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also administered the oath of the three other retired generals - Maj. Gen. Eduardo del Rosario and Brigadier Generals Raymundo Elifante and Ricardo Jalad.

Del Rosario is the undersecretary for civil, veterans and retiree affairs – replacing former Navy chief Vice Adm. Jesus Millan.

Elefante is the undersecretary for finance, munitions, installations and materiel, taking the place of retired Maj. Gen.  Fernando Manalo.

Jalad is the administrator of the Office of Civil Defense – an agency under the DND. He replaced former Navy chief Vice Adm. Alexander Pama.

As the OCD administration, Jalad is also the executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council which is chaired by the defense secretary.

There are two other undersecretary posts in the department – undersecretary for national defense and undersecretary for defense operations. The two posts were held by retired colonel Honorio Azcueta and retired Maj. Gen. Natalaio Ecarma respectively.

Sources said former AFP vice chief Lt. Gen. Cardozo Luna had been recommended to be undersecretary for national defense while former defense and armed forces attaché to Washington Brig. Gen. Cesar Yano was nominated as undersecretary for defense operations.

One of the sources said the papers of Luna and Yano are awaiting approval of President Duterte.

Another source said the two are actually reporting to their office since July 1.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/retired-generals-tapped-dnd

2 days after truce, NPA stages ambush

From Malaya Business Insight (Jul 28): 2 days after truce, NPA stages ambush

THE Armed Forces yesterday said there have been no reported skirmishes with communist New People’s Army rebels since President Duterte declared a unilateral truce with the communists last Monday afternoon.

“These are good signs,” said AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, adding he hopes this continues so that there will be smooth resumption of the formal peace talks next month in Norway.

He spoke too soon, as later in the afternoon, the military said a militiaman was killed in an ambush staged by the NPA in Davao del Norte.

Four other militiamen were wounded.

Brig. Gen. Ricardo Nepomuceno, commander of the Army’s 1003rd Brigade, said the troops were attacked as they were returning to their base in Sitio Patil, Barangay Gupitan in Kapalong town because of the ceasefire declaration. He said the soldiers from the Army’s 72nd Infantry Battalion were pulled out from an offensive operation in compliance with the ceasefire declaration.

The Communist Party of the Philippines said it would soon reciprocate the government truce and asked NPA forces to be on “active defense mode.”

Nepomuceno said the militiamen from the Army’s 72nd Infantry Battalion were traveling on foot when they were waylaid by an undetermined number of rebels in Sitio Kamunoan, Barangay Gupitan at around 6:30 a.m.

“That is the risk of the unilateral ceasefire,” said Nepomuceno, referring to the ambush, the first to be conducted by the NPA during the government ceasefire period.

“We were supposed to keep our guard up against such attacks (during the ceasefire), we were anticipating it,” he said.

Nepomuceno said the militiamen, numbering 20 men, were able to put up a fight until the rebels withdrew.

“We will still adhere to the unilateral ceasefire and this will be treated as law enforcement operation. If applicable (in the ceasefire), we will conduct law enforcement operation against the lawless armed group that perpetrated this,” said Nepomuceno.

AFP chief Gen. Ricardo Visaya earlier instructed military commanders to comply with the President’s declaration.

Padilla said normal law enforcement operations will continue during the implementation of the ceasefire but would not categorically say if government troops would continue conducting patrols.

“I wouldn’t want to answer the details for now because that will be part of the discussions during the formal negotiations. What we can say is that we are implementing a unilateral ceasefire, suspending offensive operations against the NPA,” he said.

The Philippine National Police yesterday declared a suspension of police operations (SOPO) with the NPA.

In a memorandum to all police regional offices, Director Benjamin Magalong, acting deputy PNP chief for operations, said the SOPO would mean that all police units “shall refrain from initiating tactical police operations against the CNN (CPP-NDF-
NPA)… but the SOPO shall not cover normal law enforcement operations.”

He added that service of arrest warrants against identified wanted rebels will continue.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/2-days-after-truce-npa-stages-ambush

Army suspends operations against NPAs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 27): Army suspends  operations  against NPAs

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato  -- The Philippine  Army  here  has  suspended  offensive  military operations against the CPP-NPA-NDF,  a  military  official here  confirmed.

"In accordance with President  Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of  a ceasefire with the  CPP-NPA-NDF,  we have suspended  offensive  military operations against the rebel  group," Lt. Col.  Benjamin Leander,  commanding officer of the  27th  Infantry  Battalion, said in a radio interview on Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Leander, however,  clarified that this  does not mean withdrawing  their presence in the  communities.

"We remain vigilant inasmuch as  maintaining  security  remains  our prime responsibility," he said. "We are only prohibited  from offensive  actions.

If attacked, he emphasized, the Philippine Army will have to defend  themselves.

Also, he added,  the Army will  sustain  the Peace and Development Outreach  Programs  in their  areas  of responsibility.

"So far, we have  not monitored  anything that  would cause concern," he said.

In another  interview,  Leander  revealed that  5 NPA members  surrendered to them  this month.

27th IB's  area of  responsibility covers the entire  South Cotabato, some parts of  Sarangani province and Lutayan town in Sultan Kudarat. 

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1611469597614/army-suspends-operations-against-npas

Gov't forces suspend offensive operations against the communist rebels

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 27): Gov't forces suspend offensive operations against the communist rebels

Members of the security sector in Davao Region have taken a defensive posture in compliance to the unilateral ceasefire ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte with the communist rebels.

Speaking in the AFP-PNP Press Corps briefing at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, Chief Inspector Andrea de la Cerna, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office XI said the police now comply with the suspension of combat operations against the rebels.

However, she stressed that the police will continue to perform its law enforcement functions against all forms of criminals like the campaign against illegal drugs and enforcement of all special laws.

“Given the guidance of our higher ups, we will comply with the ceasefire,” De la Cerna said.

She affirmed that Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen, former police chief of Governor Generoso remains in the hands of the rebels who put him on trial in their “kangaroo court.”

De la Cerna said the rebels could hardly present hard evidence linking Ongachen to illegal drugs.

“With the forthcoming peace talks, we will work out to address the situation of Chief Inspector Ongachen,” she said.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division said that the soldiers immediately stop all offensive operations against the New People’s Army with the guidance of the commander-in-chief who is the president and the Armed Forces chief-of-staff.

He said that the military will continue to provide support to the enforcement operations of the police.

“We will continue to protect the communities and its people, and to secure vital installations of the government and government flagship projects,” Batchar said.

He said the military will continue to observe heightened alert since there is no positive response yet coming from the rebel forces if they will also declare a ceasefire.

Batchar said the unilateral ceasefire is solely observed by all government forces.

He recalled that there were recorded encounters a day before the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire.

Batchar said two soldiers and two rebels were killed in an encounter in New Bataan, Compostela Valley.

He also noted zero rebel-initiated atrocities since President Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire in his state-of-the- nation address.

 Senior Inspector Catherine de la Rey, spokesperson of the Davao City Police Office said all police forces are on heightened readiness.

“We will not lower our guard against possible atrocities,” she said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381469602479/gov-t-forces-suspend-offensive-operations-against-the-communist-rebels

Six NPA rebels surrender on President Duterte’s first SONA

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 27): Six NPA rebels surrender on President Duterte’s first SONA

At least six New People’s Army (NPA) rebels—including two women and one minor—surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte announced an immediate unilateral ceasefire between the government forces and the CPP-NPA-NDF during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on 25 July 2016.

The rebel returnees were from Higaonon tribe who were active members of Guerilla Front 4B of Northern Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

The returnees pledged allegiance to the government by singing the national anthem with their right hands over their hearts.

Speaking on behalf of his former comrades, a guerilla leader recalled how fighting became a lost cause after he and his fellow comrade-in-arms had to endure only the hard life in the mountains; sleeping under trees, starving, and fearful of fighting government forces without getting anything in return.

He said they fear that their surrender will endanger their lives and that of their families. Hence, they requested authorities to initially withhold their identities.

Authorities said the rebels will undergo the process of enrolling in the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) where they will receive government incentives.

Lt Col Lennon G Babilonia, 8IB commanding officer, said their surrender represents the “whole of nation approach” as the President of Republic of the Philippines wants to end this perennial problem of communism—which is also imbibed in the Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan, the government’s counterinsurgency program.

“I am very pleased that our Lumad brothers who joined the NPA rebels finally realized that resorting to violence is not the answer to solve their grievances against the government. I am also happy that these former NPA rebels were already enlightened that they finally decided to go back to mainstream society. In partnership with government agencies that extend financial, livelihood, educational, and other forms of assistance, we will continuously protect and serve poor families who are most vulnerable targets of NPA recruitment,” he said.

The army also assured that these rebel returnees will be assisted to live normal lives; far from danger of deception from any NPA groups.

Meanwhile, Babilonia has condemned NPA leaders who continually recruit individuals through deception and lies to join armed struggle.

“We condemn the NPA leaders for always feeding wrong information just to deceive our people, most especially the Lumads, to join their armed struggle against the government. I am calling them to lay down their arms and give peace a chance. We will work hand in hand to address local issues without resorting to armed violence. We will find a win-win solution in attaining peace and development. We all want peace! It is about time that we work together as one nation with only one purpose; to unite in order to achieve peace and progress in our communities,” he said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501469610076/six-npa-rebels-surrender-on-president-duterte-s-first-sona

BCDA Group among top GOCCs in GCG governance rating

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26): BCDA Group among top GOCCs in GCG governance rating

The state-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and its subsidiaries, collectively known as the BCDA Group, ranked among the top 25 of the 90 state firms that were evaluated by the Governance Commission for Government-owned and –controlled corporations (GCG) on corporate governance standards.

In a statement released on July 26, BCDA President and CEO Arnel Paciano Casanova said, “we are pleased with the results but the challenge is to do better.”

BCDA subsidiary Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC), in charge of managing the Poro Point Freeport and Special Economic Zone in La Union, ranked third among the 90 government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), garnering a total assessment score of 86 percent.

The BCDA ranked 6th with a score of 79.5 percent; Clark Development Corporation (CDC) ranked 12th (71 percent); and John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) ranked 23rd (59.5 percent).

Casanova said, “This collective milestone is brought about by the consolidation of the BCDA Group’s businesses and resources.

"We now work as one unit in synergy and in complementarity, in a more aggressive effort to promote development and inclusive growth within the properties under BCDA’s domain,” he said.

BCDA has been a consistent top revenue earner for the government.

In 2016, BCDA remitted PHP4 billion to the National Treasury for the period January to December 2015 or a 25 percent increase from the PHP3.2 billion it remitted for the same period in 2014.

The BCDA belongs to the so-called “Billionaires’ Club” or the top GOCCs that remitted PHP1 billion or more to the National Treasury.

The BCDA has consistently remitted over PHP2 billion yearly to the Bureau of Treasury.

“Our mantra is stewardship and as stewards, we must govern with transparency and integrity to maximize the value and potential of the land which was bestowed under our care,"” Casanova said.

As a coherent approach of the BCDA Group, the Board and Chief Executive Officers of BCDA and its subsidiaries come together at the Annual CEO Summit to discuss strategy, exact accountability and identify targets to push forward its development mandate.

“Good governance is good economics, thus, we ensure that we hold the properties in fiduciary responsibility for our stakeholders.

We set benchmarks in governance by overseeing our mandate with integrity, excellence and proper stewardship,” he stated.

Although there is no passing and failing mark, the average score of the 90 state firms is 43.34 percent.

The GCG measured the state firms’ stakeholder relations, disclosure and transparency, and board responsibilities.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=907636

Cops, Marines seize high-powered firearms, arrest 3 in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Cops, Marines seize high-powered firearms, arrest 3 in Sultan Kudarat

Joint police and Philippine Marines forces arrested Wednesday three persons and seized high powered firearms and illegal drugs in a remote village in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

Senior Inspector Patrick Elma, Kalamansig town police chief, said elements of Kalamansig PNP and 7th Marine Battalion landing team raided a house in the coastal village of Nalilidan and seized 81 sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride, cal. 60 machine gun, cal. 45 pistols, hand held radio, home made pistols and assorted ammunition for cal. 30 garand rifle, cal. 45 pistol and cal. 38 revolver.

Elma withheld the identities of the suspects while investigation was still going on. Two of the suspects have been facing murder and multiple frustrated murder charges.

Armed with a search warrant, the police, Special Action Force and Philippine Marine troopers raided the house at past 1:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

On orders of Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat police provincial director, all police chief in the province were to implement "Oplan Double Barrel," a comprehensive police anti-crime and anti-illegal drive targeting street crimes and big time syndicates.

In his report to Supiter, Elma said the trio who are currently detained at Kalamansig police lock up cell are still undergoing tactical interrogation.

The raid was also part of "PROJECT DUTERTE" which stands for Drug Use and Trafficking Elimination through Rehabilitation, Training and Enforcement. It is a pet project of Police Regional Office 12 based in Gen.Santos City to support President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-crime and anti-illegal drugs campaign.

Region 12 is composed of the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and the cities of Ctoabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and Gen. Santos.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=907739

Westmincom supports President Duterte's decision to use military camps as drug rehab centers

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Westmincom supports President Duterte's decision to use military camps as drug rehab centers

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced that it is ready to convert parts of military camps and facilities within is area of responsibility as rehabilitation centers for drug users.

The pronouncement of Westmincom came after President Rodrigo Duterte, in his State of the National Address (SONA), has directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to facilitate the preparation for the use of military camps and facilities for drug rehabilitation.

The use of military camps is to help increase the number of residential treatment and rehabilitation facilities in all regions of the country in line with Duterte’s priority for rehabilitation of drug users.

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., Westermin spokesman, said they welcome the program and “hopes to contribute to the President’s advocacy by assisting law enforcement agencies in effecting the rehabilitation program and aiding in the reformation of drug personalities through the inculcation of discipline and values.”

“These are means indicative of the sincere intent and assertive campaign of the President against criminalities,” Tan said.

Tan said Westmincom supports all the prospective resolutions of the Commander-in-Chief in the thrust of the administration to resolve drug addiction by calling for the rehabilitation of those who have surrendered before the authorities.

The President announced in his SONA that 120,000, including 70,000 pushers, have surrendered to the government since July 1.

The police announced that a total of 20,526 drug personalities, including 939 pushers, have so far surrendered here in Region as of July 13.

The police authorities refer drug personalities to either pushers or users of prohibited drugs.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=907850

Security sector takes defensive posture in Davao Region in compliance to ceasefire

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Security sector takes defensive posture in Davao Region in compliance to ceasefire

Members of the security sector in Davao Region have taken a defensive posture in compliance with President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of unilateral ceasefire against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Chief Inspector Andrea de la Cerna, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office XI said the police now comply with the suspension of combat operations against the rebels.

However, she stressed that the police will continue to perform its law enforcement functions against all forms of criminals like the campaign against illegal drugs and enforcement of all special laws.

“Given the guidance of our higher ups, we will comply with the ceasefire,” De la Cerna said.

She affirmed that Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen, former police chief of Governor Generoso remains in the hands of the rebels who put him on trial in their “kangaroo court.”

De la Cerna said the rebels could hardly present hard evidence linking Ongachen to illegal drugs.

“With the forthcoming peace talks, we will work out to address the situation of Chief Inspector Ongachen,” she said.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division said that the soldiers immediately stop all offensive operations against the New People’s Army with the guidance of the President as commander-in-chief and the Armed Forces chief-of-staff.

He said that the military will continue to provide support to the enforcement operations of the police.

“We will continue to protect the communities and its people, and to secure vital installations of the government and government flagship projects,” Batchar said.

He said the military will continue to observe heightened alert since there is no positive response yet coming from the rebel forces if they will also declare a ceasefire.

Batchar said the unilateral ceasefire is solely observed by all government forces.He recalled that there were recorded encounters a day before the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire.

Batchar said two soldiers and two rebels were killed in an encounter in New Bataan, Compostela Valley.

Senior Inspector Catherine de la Rey, spokesperson of the Davao City Police Office said all police forces are on heightened readiness.

“We will not lower our guard against possible atrocities,” she said. (

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=907893

NPAs disregard truce, ambush CAFGUs in Davao del Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): NPAs disregard truce, ambush CAFGUs in Davao del Norte

Barely two days after President Rodrigo Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire for the communist rebels on Monday during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on Wednesday ambushed a convoy of Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Davao del Norte.

One member of CAFGU and four others were wounded during the ambush that took place at around 6:45 a.m. on Wednesday, July 27 in Sitio Kamunuan, Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, said.

However, the CAFGU member nor the four others wounded were not identified.

“This is a clear disregard by the NPAs to the declaration of a unilateral ceasefire by President Duterte,” Captain Batchar told reporters here on Wednesday afternoon.

He said that in line with the declaration of unilateral ceasefire, the CAFGU members were ordered to pull-out from their position in Sitio Kapatagan back to their patrol base in Sitio Patil.

But before reaching their patrol base, the NPAs ambushed the CAFGU members, Batchar said.

On Wednesday during the regular AFP-PNP press conference at the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City, Batchar told reporters that offensives of the Philippine Army in the whole Davao region and neighboring provinces in Mindanao under the jurisdiction of the 10thID had stopped following the declaration of the ceasefire by the President and upon the orders of Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. General Ricardo Visaya.

“After the President declared the unilateral ceasefire, we immediately stopped our operations against the NPA (New People’s Army) rebels,” Batchar said.

Pulling out of troops back to designated patrol bases were also ordered in accordance with the unilateral truce declared by the President, he added.

“But we will continue our support to law enforcement operations, protect the communities and the people in our areas of jurisdiction,” Batchar clarified.

He said the Army will also continue to secure vital government installations and flagship projects being implemented in the area.

“We will not lower our guards, we will always be on alert despite the presence of the unilateral ceasefire,” Batchar said.

National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) welcomed the unilateral ceasefire declared by President Duterte.

NDFP chair Luis Jalandoni said they still need to receive and study the full text of the declaration before making their move in relation to the declaration of a ceasefire.

The Philippine National Police in Davao region (PNP PRO-11) will also abide by the unilateral ceasefire declaration but will continue to do its law enforcement tasks in the area.

“We will comply with the ceasefire as far as offensives and combat operations are concerned,” said Police Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna, spokesperson of PNP PRO-11 in the same press conference last Wednesday.

Dela Cerna added that the PNP in the area will continue to perform its law enforcement functions against all forms of criminality.

The intensified campaigns against illegal drugs will also continue in the region, she added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=907971

FA-50PH airframe systems up for maintenance

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): FA-50PH airframe systems up for maintenance

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is allocating the sum of PHP26,304,500.53 for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of the airframe systems of its South Korean-made FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" light interim jet aircraft.

Submission and opening of bids is on Aug. 9, at 9:00 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, said PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla.

The PAF's first two FA-50PH jet aircraft arrived in the Philippines in Nov. 28, 2015. The rest remaining 10 aircraft, out of a 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth PHP18.9 billion, will be delivered between 2016 to 2017.

The FA-50PHs has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and a half times the speed of sound and is capable of being fitted air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air-to-air and heat-seeking missiles aside from light automatic cannons.

It will act as the country's interim fighter until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.

KAI's FA-50PH design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.

KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the FA-50PH.

The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.

The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.

There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons), five in the fuselage and two in the wings.

An additional 1,710 liters (452 US gallons) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.

Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.

The FA-50PH uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.

The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.

Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907757

ASEAN joint statement a "victory" despite no mention of sea row ruling -- Yasay

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): ASEAN joint statement a "victory" despite no mention of sea row ruling -- Yasay

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Perfecto Yasay on Wednesday said the joint statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a “victory” for the bloc as it upholds the importance of international law despite the non-inclusion of the international court ruling on the South China Sea row in their statement.

In a press conference, Yasay said he “vigorously” pushed for reference to the arbitral award in the joint statement, but said he was already “happy” with the joint communiqué citing the bloc’s commitment in pursuing a peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.

Foreign ministers from the ASEAN-member states gathered for the 49th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM) in Laos, Vientiane held from Sunday to Monday.

“The ASEAN has not taken any sides with regards to this case. ASEAN recognized and respected the legal processes we went through in filing the case,” Yasay said.

The DFA Chief stressed that the case filed before the arbitral tribunal only concerns China and the Philippines.

“Resolving the dispute within the context of international law of UNCLOS is a matter for China and the Philippines alone,” he said.

He also dispelled reports asserting that China came out victorious after the Philippines reportedly withdrew a proposal to include the historic arbitration ruling in the bloc’s statement.

“I am just saying this to dispel the reports that have been said that China came out victorious in the ASEAN meeting because we precisely agreed to not mentioning the arbitral award,” he said.

Yasay also acknowledged the designation of former President Fidel V. Ramos to engage China in bilateral talks, saying that the matter must be pursued immediately.

“We would hope that this would be pursued as soon as possible and we are hoping that China will come up with a position that would allow these bilateral talks to proceed,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907767

Duterte: My presidency is a peace mission

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Duterte: My presidency is a peace mission
 
Speaking before the 7th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, President Rodrigo R. Duterte narrated on Tuesday how his father — also a soldier — retired in Mindanao seeking greener pastures.

The President also explained why he declared a unilateral ceasefire with the New Peoples Army (NPA).

“It is not my decision alone. It is the decision of the Cabinet. Of course, General (Secretary Hermogenes) Esperon and Secretary Delfin Lorenzana are automatically members of the Cabinet,” Duterte said, referring to his National Security Adviser and Defense Secretary.

“I am a President that seeks peace with everyone. My job as President is not to look for trouble but to see to it that there are no conflicts in the Philippines.”

The President reiterated his vision of reconciliation for the country as the conflict in Mindanao has been ongoing since the early 1970s and the communist-led rebellion has been around for more than four decades. “I have to talk to the MI (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) and to the MN (Moro National Liberation Front), to Nur (Misuari) and (Alhadj) Murad and they are ready to talk about peace. This has gone too far and for so long. There has been too many lives lost on both sides,” the President said.

The planned peace talks between the government, the MNLF, MILF, and the NPA should take place later within the year. “I have no other dream but to bring peace to my country, if possible. I plead peace with everybody. I do not want any single loss (of life) either on their side or the government if possible,” according to Duterte.

Although the President extends a hand of peace to the MNLF and the MILF, he also wants to be certain that neither group has any ties to the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) as weapons wielded by the ASG have been traced back to rogue members of both the MNLF and MILF, as the prospect of peace will not be possible.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907718

4 new DND undersecretaries take oath

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): 4 new DND undersecretaries take oath

Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana formally administered the oath of four DND Undersecretaries Wednesday.

Oath-taking ceremonies took place at the DND Social Hall, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

They are Ricardo A. David, Jr., Undersecretary for Defense Policy; Eduardo D. Del Rosario, Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs; Ricardo B. Jalad, Office of Civil Defense Administrator; and Raymundo DV Elefante, Undersecretary for Finance, Munitions, Installations and Materiel.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907844

EDCA to beef up AFP maritime, defensive capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): EDCA to beef up AFP maritime, defensive capabilities

Aside from intensifying humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) capabilities, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States will help the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) improve its maritime security and defensive capabilities.

This was stressed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla when asked what benefits the military will get from EDCA -- now that the agreement is declared constitutional with finality by the Supreme Court.

"Number one, (EDCA) will give the AFP an improved capability in responding to disasters. Number two, it will permit the Americans to help us improve our defense capabilities in the maritime environment and develop our maritime security awareness, giving us the capabilities to detect illegal fishers or poachers in our waters. This is aside from other help they can provide in our ongoing AFP Modernization," he said in Filipino.

Padilla also clarified that EDCA is not aimed at any particular country as the Philippines and the US has a long-standing Mutual Defense Treaty.

"We're not aiming at any country, it's just that we need to help each other in common interest areas," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907856

PHL reaffirms strong alliance with US, assures full implementation of EDCA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): PHL reaffirms strong alliance with US, assures full implementation of EDCA

The Philippines on Wednesday reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen its alliance with the United States, particularly in fully implementing the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay made the statement as he met with his US counterpart, Secretary of State John Kerry to discuss a full range of bilateral relations between Manila and Washington at the Department of Foreign Affairs office in Pasay City.

”I assured Secretary Kerry that we will pursue our planning process for the full implementation of EDCA. The EDCA will help us prepare for the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations and contribute to our AFP modernization efforts,” said Yasay in a press conference.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court affirmed with finality EDCA's legality which stipulates the increased rotational presence of American troops in the country.

Under the agreement, the US is allowed to build structures, store as well as preposition weapons, defense supplies and materiel; station troops, civilian personnel and defense contractors; transit and station vehicles, vessels and aircraft for a period of 10 years.

For his part, Kerry lauded the “very responsible and measured way” in which the Philippine government responded to the UN tribunal ruling.

Kerry, however stressed that the US takes a strong position in supporting the rule of law, as well as on protecting rights and freedoms of nations to freedom of navigation and use of air and sea space.

”We have made clear that the decision of the UN tribunal ruling on the South China Sea row is legally binding... The rights of the countries should always be respected,” Kerry said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907827

No recorded skirmish between gov't troops, rebels since declaration of ceasefire

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): No recorded skirmish between gov't troops, rebels since declaration of ceasefire

Since the declaration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte of a unilateral ceasefire and suspension-of-military-offensive (SOMO) on Monday, there were no recorded skirmish or fighting incidents between AFP personnel and New People's Army rebels.

This was confirmed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in an interview Wednesday.

"Since the declaration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (of the unilateral ceasefire last Monday) and SOMO, there has been no recorded skirmish between the two sides," he added.

President Duterte declared the unilateral ceasefire against the NPAs during his first State-Of-the-Nation-Address on Monday afternoon with the AFP's declaration of a SOMO to follow shortly.

Padilla said the lack of fighting between the two parties "are good signs" and hopes it will continue until formal opening of peacetalks this coming Aug. 20.

"AFP chief-of-staff Ricardo Visaya directs all Commanders of Unified Commands, Major Services, and AFP-Wide Service Support Units to observe (the) SOMO against the CPP-NPA-NDF effective July 25," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo earlier said.

"The SOMO covers the cessation of all military offensives against the CPP-NPA-NDF particularly its armed group the New People's Army including the conduct of combat maneuvers that may be construed as provocative acts that may be deemed violative of the SOMO," Visaya's order read.

Despite the SOMO, Arevalo said the military will continue to perform its mandate of protecting the communities and its people from terrorist groups, secure and protect from attacks or sabotage vital government facilities, military camps, infrastructures, and projects.

"The AFP shall likewise continue to support law enforcement operations to help ensure unhampered flow of social, cultural, religious, political, and economic activities of the people and the delivery by the LGUs, LGAs, and NGOs to the communities," it stressed.

Arevalo said the AFP leadership will exhaust all efforts to support Duterte's peace initiatives with the rebel group to attain an enduring peace and sustained development for our country's prosperity.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907867

US commits USD 32-M aid for PHL law enforcement training

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): US commits USD 32-M aid for PHL law enforcement training

The United States has committed USD 32-million assistance to the Philippines for law enforcement training, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella disclosed Wednesday.

“Basically, it will come in the form of trainings and stuff,” he told reporters in a briefing after the lunch courtesy call of US Secretary of State John Kerry with President Rodrigo R. Duterte in Malacanang.

Abella said there was no mention on measures about the maritime dispute between the Philippines and China during the meeting except that any talks on this “will begin with the ruling (of the UN Tribunal).”

The Netherlands-based Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines on the jurisdiction claims over three islands in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), saying that it “found that Mischief Reef, Second Thomas Shoal and Reed Bank are submerged at high tide, form part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the Philippines, and are not overlapped by any possible entitlement of China.”

Mischief Reef is also called Panganiban Reef in the Philippines, Second Thomas Shoal is known as Ayungin Shoal and Reed Bank as Recto Bank.

Abella said there was no stalemate on the territorial dispute since “conversation will continue to proceed.”

President Duterte earlier said he still prefered the diplomatic way of addressing the territorial dispute and eyes to tap former President Fidel Ramos to be the Philippines’ representative on this issue.

Other topics discussed during the courtesy call included the long-standing relationship between the US and the Philippines, which paved the way for some four million Filipinos to live and work in the US and at least 500,000 US citizens to enjoy the same in the Philippines.

Also discussed are issues on terrorism, crime, drugs, religious fanaticism, and maritime security and menus of solution on these problems, Abella said.

Climate change issue was also touched on and “Mr. Kerry was helpful in defining certain issues about the Paris pact.”

“And the President also responded appropriately when he said the Philippines will work out just as long as everything is fair,” he said.

President Duterte earlier said he would not heed the Paris Pact, signed in December 2015 calling on signatories to reduce carbon emissions, since this would restrict economic growth of the Philippines.

Under the agreement, the Philippines is committed to reduce carbon emissions by 70 percent by 2030.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907876

Duterte, Kerry affirm long-standing PHL-US relations

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Duterte, Kerry affirm long-standing PHL-US relations

The Philippines and the United States affirmed their long-standing relations at Wednesday's lunch meeting between President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry at the President's Hall of Malacanang.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, in a briefing, told the Malacanang Press Corps that PRRD and Kerry took note of the special relationship, with around four million Filipinos in America and at least 500,000 Americans in the Philippines.

Kerry is the highest Cabinet member of U.S. President Barack Obama's administration to visit President Duterte so far. He led a delegation of U.S. State Department officials and a lone military officer, US Vice Admiral Frank Pandolfe, who serves as assistant chairman to the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Abella said, "First, it was a courtesy call. It was a very interesting lunch because they shared common interests. They talked about motorcycles and hunting."

He added that "they also discussed common concerns: terrorism, crime, drugs, religious fanaticism, and maritime security. They also mentioned a menu of solutions."

The Palace official disclosed that the U.S. has committed USD 32 million in training and services to the Philippines, mainly for law enforcement.

He said the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) was touched upon and "it was affirmed that whatever works for the Philippines will be what will work."

According to Abella, climate change was also on the agenda, with Kerry being "helpful in defining certain issues about the Paris pact" and PRRD saying that "the Philippines will work out just as long as everything is fair."

On the West Philippine Sea, the Malacanang spokesperson said, "There were no agreements regarding that except that the President did mention that whatever talks we will engage in will begin with the ruling, that will be the foundation, the ruling regarding the area."

Abella said Kerry was listening very intently when the President mentioned about how the administration is handling the war against crime and especially the narcotic leg."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907940

Militiaman killed, 4 others wounded in NPA attack in Davao Del Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): Militiaman killed, 4 others wounded in NPA attack in Davao Del Norte

Members of the New People's Army (NPA) attacked a homeward bound group of militiamen, killing one and wounding four others, in Kapalong, Davao Del Norte Wednesday morning.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs office head, said the militiamen were returning to their base in Sitio Patil, Barangay Gupitan, in response to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte's unilateral ceasefire against the NPAs, when attacked by the rebels while approaching Sitio Kamunoan at 6:45 a.m.

He added that the victims were under the supervision of the 60th Infantry Battalion.

A militiaman was immediately killed while four others were wounded.

Names of the victims are still being withheld pending notifications of their family.

Col. Ricardo Nepomuceno, 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that the ambush of their troops who were pulling out from the operational area in compliance with the unilateral ceasefire is deplorable.

Despite this, they will continue to observe the suspension of offensive operations against the NPA and coordinate with the PNP for the conduct of law enforcement operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907969

PNP suspends offensive operations vs CPP-NPA-NDF

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 27): PNP suspends offensive operations vs CPP-NPA-NDF
 
In line with President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), the Philippine National Police ordered Wednesday a nationwide Suspension of Offensive Police Operations (SOPO) against the said groups effective immediately.

The SOPO orders all PNP troops to refrain from initiating offensive police operations against the communist insurgents.

However, Acting Deputy Chief PNP for Operations (TDCO) Police Director Benjamin B Magalong, said this suspension of offensive police operations does not cover normal law enforcement operations and shall be implemented without prejudice to actions aimed at protecting the people and the communities, as well as PNP troops and installations against terrorist attacks that may take place during the SOPO period.

As such, normal police functions such as serving of warrants of arrest, checkpoint operations and other routine security measures will continue.

Recognizing the inherent right to self-defense, all units shall remain on-guard and maintain a high state of operational readiness to respond to any hostile actions.

“So as not to jeopardize the Presidential Declaration of the unilateral ceasefire, however, all police units are enjoined to be vigilant in the performance of their duties to prevent any untoward incident as a result of insurgents’ provocative action” PDir Magalong said.

All police units were also instructed to exercise caution and restraint in conducting movements and activities which may be viewed by the CPP-NPA-NDF as provocative acts.

“The PNP will still continue to conduct active defensive measures such as security patrols to protect all PNP camps, stations, vital installations and civilian communities, route security, and strengthening of defensive positions.” Magalong added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=907968

Tug Operator Blamed for Abu Sayyaf Hijacking

From The Maritime Executive (Jul 26): Tug Operator Blamed for Abu Sayyaf Hijacking

Abu
Abu Sayyaf Group members (file image)

On Tuesday, Malaysia's inspector-general of police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Baka said at a press conference that the most recent Abu Sayyaf tug crew kidnapping off of Sabah was the fault of the tug's operator, which he alleged had not followed official guidance.

He emphasized that he did not mean to blame the victims of the attack, but rather the operator. "I hold them responsible because we have engaged with them and advised them what they should be doing.‎ But they did not heed our calls‎,” he said.

Khalid added that he believed there were other operators who were not treating the matter with enough seriousness. “Unfortunately, they take the matter too lightly,” he said. "The east coast of Sabah has always been our concern. Not only from [Abu Sayyaf] but also kidnap for ransom groups and other terror groups."

He called for all tug operators to heed the police's precautions. “I ask those we have had discussions with to follow our advice so that such incidents can be avoided. If they do not follow our advice, the risk is very high," he said.

The missing crew of the Malaysian-owned tug have been identified as Mohd Ridzuan Ismail, 32, Abd Rahim Summas, 62, Mohd Jumadil Rahim, 23, Fandy Bakran, 26 and Tayudin Anjut, 45.

Just across the border, Indonesian authorities have issued a ban on Philippines-bound departures from the most affected areas, but industry sources say that the restriction can be circumvented. “There have been leakages. Philippines are still getting their coal from many parts of Indonesia, for example from Kalimantan and other places. This is done outside the knowledge of the authorities,” said Budhi Halim, Secretary-General of the Indonesian National Shipowners Association, speaking to Channel NewsAsia last week.

Separately, the Armed Forces of the Philippines has confirmed that seven Indonesian tugboat crewmembers were kidnapped by pirates allied with Abu Sayyaf on July 22 – yet another in a string of attacks on the slow-moving tugs that haul coal from Kalimantan to the Philippines. Six of the 13 crewmembers were freed right away, but the others were not so lucky. The attackers were identified as the serial kidnappers the Muktadil brothers.

http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/tug-operator-blamed-for-abu-sayyaf-hijacking