From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 8): 7 ex-rebels in audience with Digong
Seven former New People's Army rebels got a rare chance of having an audience with President Rodrigo Duterte during his visit at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz Friday.
Capt. Gizelle Lim, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs Office chief, yesterday said that the seven former rebels asked the help of Duterte for the land that they will be tilling, for them to start a new life.
Although the visit was strictly a military affair, Lim said the President took the time to reach out to the former rebels and asked them about their condition after their life in the rebel movement.
Lim added that Duterte told them they will be provided land to till under the government's agrarian reform program. But they were reminded not to sell it, she added.
The President also enlisted their help to make the country peaceful, she added.
Major Gen. Harold Cabreros, 3ID commander, in a statement, said the Philippine Army will continue its non-traditional role as Bayanihan Team operators, to lobby the needs of vulnerable communities with concerned agencies, and help them understand and realize the futility of armed struggle under a communist ideology.
Lim said that Duterte also mentioned the upgrading of the military camp hospital by procuring high-end equipment that will aid wounded soldiers from the battlefield, such as an MRI, Gamma X-Ray, construction of a new hospital building, as well as educational benefits for military dependents.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/August/08/negor4.htm
Monday, August 8, 2016
MILF: Editorial -- On Marcos’ burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani
Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 8): Editorial -- On Marcos’ burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani
To many people, the issue of burying former strongman Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes ‘Cemetery) is a big issue. We highly respect their views on this; in truth, we share very much many of the reasons for objecting to it. In fact, the Moros suffered the most numbers of killed or victims during the height of Martial Law, in particular those victims of massacres. This is not to include the thousands upon thousands of hectares of Moro and other indigenous peoples ‘ancestral lands in Mindanao given to migrants or outsiders.
The truth is that all former presidents after Marcos did not allow his remains to be buried there. They found it most inappropriate to consider Marcos a hero for which the cemetery has its billing. They have not forgotten the Marcos ‘legacy of hypocrisy and violence, the rapine by his cronies and sycophants, his hidden loot, his deception with his fake medals and non-existing guerrilla unit; the repression, corruption, and injustices, the rape of the country’s economy; the military abuse, torture and “salvaging”. To the present, not only the people but also Marcos’ own family continue to suffer from such bitter legacy. Imagine, Bongbong Marcos lost the vice presidential race to Leni Robredo during the last polls by just more than 200,000 votes; and it was the Moro protest votes that made this defeat possible. Of all the provinces and cities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) only in Sulu that he won over the latter.
However, if President Rodrigo Duterte decides to break tradition, then the best attitude we can probably adopt is to conduct a reality check: He is the president and he has the prerogative. Besides, whatever his decision carries, only he himself has to answer. Real leaders are leaders because oftentimes they make hard decisions that appear too controversial to many people. But in the end, many if not most of those decisions are right because leaders see many things that the rest cannot see. That is why in the MILF we give our leaders more discretionary powers more than what other similar organizations can allow.
Duterte’s own words are enough to gauge his intention: “He is allowing the burial ‘not because he is a hero … but because he was a Filipino soldier.”
For more practical reasons, consider that the Libingan ng mga Bayani is a property of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Army is the unit tasked to manage its operations and maintenance. As Commander-in-Chief of the AFP, which includes the Army, President Duterte is well within his official capacity to allow the burial.
For those who are not convinced of the practicality of the decision, they can contest it in court because there is a law which clearly stated that there had been gross violation of human rights during the time of Marcos. Another law stipulates that the states hereby acknowledges its moral and legal obligation to recognize and or provide reparation to victims and their families as well as those injuries they sustained during the same period.
Currently, there are approximately 49,000 buried in the 103-hectare cemetery.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/editorial/24-january-8-15-2016/838-on-marcos-burial-at-libingan-ng-mga-bayani
To many people, the issue of burying former strongman Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes ‘Cemetery) is a big issue. We highly respect their views on this; in truth, we share very much many of the reasons for objecting to it. In fact, the Moros suffered the most numbers of killed or victims during the height of Martial Law, in particular those victims of massacres. This is not to include the thousands upon thousands of hectares of Moro and other indigenous peoples ‘ancestral lands in Mindanao given to migrants or outsiders.
However, if President Rodrigo Duterte decides to break tradition, then the best attitude we can probably adopt is to conduct a reality check: He is the president and he has the prerogative. Besides, whatever his decision carries, only he himself has to answer. Real leaders are leaders because oftentimes they make hard decisions that appear too controversial to many people. But in the end, many if not most of those decisions are right because leaders see many things that the rest cannot see. That is why in the MILF we give our leaders more discretionary powers more than what other similar organizations can allow.
Duterte’s own words are enough to gauge his intention: “He is allowing the burial ‘not because he is a hero … but because he was a Filipino soldier.”
For more practical reasons, consider that the Libingan ng mga Bayani is a property of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Army is the unit tasked to manage its operations and maintenance. As Commander-in-Chief of the AFP, which includes the Army, President Duterte is well within his official capacity to allow the burial.
For those who are not convinced of the practicality of the decision, they can contest it in court because there is a law which clearly stated that there had been gross violation of human rights during the time of Marcos. Another law stipulates that the states hereby acknowledges its moral and legal obligation to recognize and or provide reparation to victims and their families as well as those injuries they sustained during the same period.
Currently, there are approximately 49,000 buried in the 103-hectare cemetery.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/editorial/24-january-8-15-2016/838-on-marcos-burial-at-libingan-ng-mga-bayani
Maritime bills to boost PH stand on sea dispute
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 7): Maritime bills to boost PH stand on sea dispute
http://www.mb.com.ph/maritime-bills-to-boost-ph-stand-on-sea-dispute/
Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano has called on the House of Representatives leadership to prioritize bills defining the country’s archipelagic baselines and maritime zones to further boost the country’s claim over disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS) territories.
Alejano, a member of the House independent minority bloc, said the recent United Nations Arbitral Tribunal decision upholding the Philippines’ claim over disputed islands and reefs in the WPS should be used to good advantage by passing the twin legislative proposals.
Alejano re-filed House Bill 1117 providing for the establishment of archipelagic sea lanes in the Philippine archipelagic waters and HB 1118 which seeks to define the maritime zones of the Philippines.
The two bills were first filed in the 14th Congress but were never passed.
In the 16th Congress, the Lower House passed HB 1118 on third and final reading while HB 1117 was approved on the committee level.
“These two proposed measures will strengthen the country’s claim as an archipelagic state and maritime nation. It will definitely reinforce our claim in WPS and the support the Hague ruling,” said Alejano.
He said the bills are proposed laws that will “define the conduct on our international and external waters” of commercial and military vessels seeking passage on the archipelagic sea lanes of the Philippines.
“Enforcing these laws are clearly manifestation of our interest and resolve to claim what are rightfully ours,” said Alejano, a former Philippine Navy officer.
OTHER AVENUES
Meantime, the University of the Philippines is currently developing a mechanism involving researchers and analysts from the Philippines and China to help in exploring ways of moving forward on the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea issue.
This was disclosed by UP President Alfredo E. Pascual in an interview with reporters in the sidelines of the just concluded Second Manila Conference on the South China Sea held at the historic landmark Manila Hotel.
Dubbed as Track Two dialogue mechanism, Pascual said the initiative is “strictly unofficial in nature, involving mainly researchers, analysts, and experts” and may be used as a guide to bilateral talks at the non-government level.
http://www.mb.com.ph/maritime-bills-to-boost-ph-stand-on-sea-dispute/
Philippine Navy begins flight deck operations training on third Del Pilar-class frigate
From IHS Janes 360: Philippine Navy begins flight deck operations training on third Del Pilar-class frigate
Key Points
The vessel, which has been named BRP Andres Bonifacio and given the pennant number 17, was formally received and recommissioned by the PN on 21 July 2016.
The vessel was previously the Hamilton-class high endurance cutter, USCGC Boutwell (719). The ship was retired from USCG service in March 2016 after 48 years of service and subsequently transferred to the PN under the US' Foreign Military Sale Programme through its Foreign Assistance Act.
According to IHS Jane's Fighting Ships , the 3,300-tonne platform features an overall length of 115.2 m, an overall beam of 13.1 m and a hull draught of 6.1 m. It can accommodate a crew complement of 162, including 19 officers, and one helicopter on its flight deck.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney FT4A-6 gas turbine and two Fairbanks-Morse 38TD8-1/8-12 diesel engines in a combined diesel or gas (CODOG) configuration, the ship has a top speed of 29 kt and a standard range of 9,600 n miles at 15 kt.
Andres Bonifacio is scheduled to depart from Alameda in October 2016, and arrive in the Philippines in November 2016.
The ship will join two other Del Pilar-class frigates in service with the PN. These are namely BRP Gregorio del Pilar (15) which was also transferred from the USCG in May 2011, and BRP Ramon A Alcaraz (16), which was transferred in May 2012.
Philippine Navy crew members performing flight deck operations training onboard BRP Ramon Alcaraz. The service has begun training of crew members of BRP Andres Bonifacio for similar operations. (Philippine Navy)
Key Points
- Crew onboard the Philippines' third Del Pilar frigate has begun flight deck operations training in California
- Vessel is on track to arrive in the Philippines by November 2016
The vessel, which has been named BRP Andres Bonifacio and given the pennant number 17, was formally received and recommissioned by the PN on 21 July 2016.
The vessel was previously the Hamilton-class high endurance cutter, USCGC Boutwell (719). The ship was retired from USCG service in March 2016 after 48 years of service and subsequently transferred to the PN under the US' Foreign Military Sale Programme through its Foreign Assistance Act.
According to IHS Jane's Fighting Ships , the 3,300-tonne platform features an overall length of 115.2 m, an overall beam of 13.1 m and a hull draught of 6.1 m. It can accommodate a crew complement of 162, including 19 officers, and one helicopter on its flight deck.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney FT4A-6 gas turbine and two Fairbanks-Morse 38TD8-1/8-12 diesel engines in a combined diesel or gas (CODOG) configuration, the ship has a top speed of 29 kt and a standard range of 9,600 n miles at 15 kt.
Andres Bonifacio is scheduled to depart from Alameda in October 2016, and arrive in the Philippines in November 2016.
The ship will join two other Del Pilar-class frigates in service with the PN. These are namely BRP Gregorio del Pilar (15) which was also transferred from the USCG in May 2011, and BRP Ramon A Alcaraz (16), which was transferred in May 2012.
Philippine Navy crew members performing flight deck operations training onboard BRP Ramon Alcaraz. The service has begun training of crew members of BRP Andres Bonifacio for similar operations. (Philippine Navy)
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China installs radar in disputed waters: Japanese media
From Asia One (Aug 7): China installs radar in disputed waters: Japanese media
A group of disputed islands, Uotsuri island , Minamikojima and Kitakojima, known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China is seen in the East China Sea
China has installed a radar with potential military functions in a disputed area of the East China Sea, Japanese media said Sunday, in the latest flare-up of tensions between the two countries.
The Japanese foreign ministry said China had placed a surface search radar and surveillance camera on one of its structures in a gasfield which is claimed by both countries, the Nikkei business daily reported.
The ministry on Friday complained to Beijing through diplomatic channels, the newspaper reported.
The paper said it was the first radar unit known to have been installed on any of the Chinese structures in the area, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas deposits.Tokyo is analysing the radar's capability and is concerned that Beijing could be intending to strengthen its military power in the East China Sea.
The foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the report.Japan and China agreed in 2008 to jointly develop the undersea reserves in the disputed area, with a ban on unilateral drilling.
But negotiations stalled and Tokyo suspects China has some drilling rigs in operation near its de facto maritime border with Japan.
On Sunday Tokyo separately protested to Beijing after two Chinese ships entered Japanese waters near disputed islands also in the East China Sea.
Japan's government said the two Chinese coastguard ships were sailing some 20 kilometres (12 miles) west of one of the Senkaku islands, known as the Diaoyus in Chinese, on Sunday morning.
"The intrusion violates our country's sovereignty and is completely unacceptable," Japanese vice foreign minister Shinsuke Sugiyama told Cheng Yonghua, Beijing's ambassador to Tokyo, by phone, according to a government statement.
The two vessels left the waters later in the day, the Japanese coastguard said.
On Saturday Japanese maritime officials reported seeing some 230 Chinese fishing vessels and seven coastguard ships, including four apparently carrying weapons, sailing into the same waters
http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/china-installs-radar-disputed-waters-japanese-media
A group of disputed islands, Uotsuri island , Minamikojima and Kitakojima, known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China is seen in the East China Sea
China has installed a radar with potential military functions in a disputed area of the East China Sea, Japanese media said Sunday, in the latest flare-up of tensions between the two countries.
The Japanese foreign ministry said China had placed a surface search radar and surveillance camera on one of its structures in a gasfield which is claimed by both countries, the Nikkei business daily reported.
The ministry on Friday complained to Beijing through diplomatic channels, the newspaper reported.
The paper said it was the first radar unit known to have been installed on any of the Chinese structures in the area, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas deposits.Tokyo is analysing the radar's capability and is concerned that Beijing could be intending to strengthen its military power in the East China Sea.
The foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the report.Japan and China agreed in 2008 to jointly develop the undersea reserves in the disputed area, with a ban on unilateral drilling.
But negotiations stalled and Tokyo suspects China has some drilling rigs in operation near its de facto maritime border with Japan.
On Sunday Tokyo separately protested to Beijing after two Chinese ships entered Japanese waters near disputed islands also in the East China Sea.
Japan's government said the two Chinese coastguard ships were sailing some 20 kilometres (12 miles) west of one of the Senkaku islands, known as the Diaoyus in Chinese, on Sunday morning.
"The intrusion violates our country's sovereignty and is completely unacceptable," Japanese vice foreign minister Shinsuke Sugiyama told Cheng Yonghua, Beijing's ambassador to Tokyo, by phone, according to a government statement.
The two vessels left the waters later in the day, the Japanese coastguard said.
On Saturday Japanese maritime officials reported seeing some 230 Chinese fishing vessels and seven coastguard ships, including four apparently carrying weapons, sailing into the same waters
http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/china-installs-radar-disputed-waters-japanese-media
NDF: Duterte has 'duty' to show concern for troops
From Rappler (Aug 8): NDF: Duterte has 'duty' to show concern for troops
National Democratic Front spokesman Luis Jalandoni says it's important for the talks to formally begin this month
TALKS MUST RESUME. New People's Army guerrillas. Photo courtesy of NDF
Reiterating its resolve to hold peace talks with the government, the communist-led National Democratic Front (NDF) said the guerrillas were not bothered by recent statements of President Rodrigo Duterte hitting them for an ambush that killed soldiers and civilian militias.
National Democratic Front spokesman Luis Jalandoni says it's important for the talks to formally begin this month
TALKS MUST RESUME. New People's Army guerrillas. Photo courtesy of NDF
Reiterating its resolve to hold peace talks with the government, the communist-led National Democratic Front (NDF) said the guerrillas were not bothered by recent statements of President Rodrigo Duterte hitting them for an ambush that killed soldiers and civilian militias.
In a statement released early Monday, August 8, Luis Jalandoni, head of the NDF panel negotiating with government, said formal talks between both parties must begin as scheduled on August 20-27 in Oslo, Norway.
“It's better than not to resume formal peace talks on August 20-27, 2016,” Jalandoni said. “It is during the formal talks that the GPH and NDFP negotiating panels can discuss the mode of ceasefire and how best to arrange this.”
Speaking before troops on Saturday night, August 6, Duterte urged the guerrillas to stop the use of landmines in attacking government military forces.
“Either you stop it or we stop talking. Let’s fight [for] another 45 years,” Duterte said in his speech on Saturday, when he visited the wake of the fallen soldiers who died in clashes with the New People's Army (NPA).
Jalandoni did not make much of it. “We understand that as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines he has the duty to show official and personal concern for his troops and mourn their death as casualties of war,” Jalandoni said.
“However, we wish to point out that the use of command-detonated land mines is not violative of the Geneva Convention and the Ottawa Treaty,” he added.
In the absence of any ceasefire declared by the NPA, the guerrillas “can use these weapons,” Jalandoni said.
Duterte on July 25 declared a unilateral ceasefire with the NPA but lifted it after a few days after a rebel ambush killed government troops.
But the government had also asked the Supreme Court to temporarily release top rebels who are consultants of the NDF panel for the Oslo talks. The SC denied the release petition, saying it had no jurisdiction over it.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, member of the government peace panel, said they're confident the lower courts will act on the release soon.
NDF: let’s talk in Oslo; use of command-detonated landmines is no violation
From MindaNews (Aug 8): NDF: let’s talk in Oslo; use of command-detonated landmines is no violation
Ceasefire between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) is best discussed during the first round of formal peace talks in Oslo, Norway on August 20 to 27, NDF peace panel chair Luis Jalandoni said, as he defended the New People’s Army (NPA) use of command-detonated landmines, claiming there is no ceasefire yet and it is not a violation of the Geneva Convention and the Ottawa Treaty.
Jalandoni said that when the detained NDF consultants protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) are released and get travel documents before August 20, “it would be better than not to resume formal peace talks on August 20-27, 2016 because it is during the formal talks that the GPH and NDFP negotiating panels can discuss the mode of ceasefire and how best to arrange this,” Jalandoni said in a statement e-mailed to media outlets at 10:31 p.m. on Sunday.
Reacting to Duterte’s early Sunday statement in Davo City that he would call off the talks if the NDF uses landmines again, Jalandoni said, “we wish to point out that the use of command-detonated land mines is not violative of the Geneva Convention and the Ottawa Treaty.”
He said NPA “can use these weapons in its military operations inasmuch as there is yet no ceasefire of any kind which is valid and effective between the NPA and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines).”
Jalandoni said the resumption of formal talks is necessary “to allow both negotiating panels to take up the mode of ceasefire, as stated in the Joint Statement signed in Oslo on June 15, 2016.”
He said they understand Duterte’s sentiments “in his official capacity and not at a personal level” because as commander in chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines “he has the duty to show official and personal concern for his troops and mourn their death as casualties of war.”
Ultimatum
Duterte early Sunday said the NDF “can say goodbye to the peace talks” if he hears another landmine explosion.
“I am not pleading this time. That’s an ultimatum. If I hear another explosion killing people, not only soldiers … no talks, pasensya na” (I’m sorry), Duterte announced at around 1 a.m. Sunday at the covered court of the Naval Station Felix Apolinario (NSFA) or Camp Panacan, after talking to the families of four soldiers slain on August 5 in two separate clashes with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Monkayo and Maragusan towns in Compostela Valley province.
“I would insist you include the landmine issues, or else no (peace) talks at all. Then, we fight for another 45 years,” he warned.
The three soldiers slain in Monkayo town were ambushed by NPA guerrillas who used high-powered firearms and a landmine, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division said.
Better at the nego table
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said the issue of landmines is better discussed during the formal resumption of the talks when the parties will tackle the declaration of a ceasefire.
“The use of command-detonated explosives (CODEX) is not specifically prohibited by international laws and conventions, especially if used against a combatant enemy force. What is clearly prohibited is its use against civilians. Even the independent Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) has advanced the same comment with regard the use of CODEX by the NPAs. Nonetheless, the negotiating panels of the GRP and NDFP can very well establish modalities and guidelines on this issue.”
The PBCL in a statement Sunday said they have been “trying to convince the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to unilaterally declare that they will not use landmines.”
“The command-detonated improvised landmines used by the NPA have the same effects as the globally banned anti-personnel landmines that violate international humanitarian law (IHL).”
The NPA owned up the August 5 ambush, in a statement issued by Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Operations Command.
He said the NPA “successfully ambushed a company of the 25th IB in Sitio Inuburan, Brgy. Rizal, killing 5 AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) troops, seizing two M203 grenade launchers, one M4 rifles, Harris radios, and several other military hardware.”
Only three soldiers, not five were killed in that ambush but 10 soldiers were also injured. A female guerrilla was also slain, her body recovered by the soldiers. Another soldier was killed in a clash with the NPA in Maragusan town afternoon of August 5 but another NPA guerrilla was also killed. In the outskirts of Valencia City on the same day, a soldier was also killed in yet another clash with the NPA.
Joint Statement
While still President-elect, Duterte sent then incoming Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza and then incoming government panel chair Silvestre Bello III to Oslo, to meet with Jalandoni and NDF chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison, Duterte’s professor in Political Thought at the Lyceum University in the 1960s.
In a Joint Statement, the parties agreed on a five-point agenda for what was supposed to be talks scheduled for July: the affirmation of previously signed agreements; accelerated process for negotiations, including the timeline for the completion of the remaining substantive agenda for the talks, socio-economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, and end of hostilities and disposition of forces; reconstitution of the JASIG list; Amnesty Proclamation for the release of all detained political prisoners, subject to concurrence by Congress; and mode of interim ceasefire.
They also agreed that the government panel under Duterte will recommend to the President the “immediate release of NDFP consultants and other JASIG-protected persons in accordance with the JASIG to enable them to participate in the peace negotiations;” and the “immediate release of prisoners/detainees based on humanitarian grounds.”
The Oslo talks will be the first round of formal peace negotiations under the Duterte administration.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/08/ndf-lets-talk-in-oslo-use-of-command-detonated-landmines-is-no-violation/
Ceasefire between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) is best discussed during the first round of formal peace talks in Oslo, Norway on August 20 to 27, NDF peace panel chair Luis Jalandoni said, as he defended the New People’s Army (NPA) use of command-detonated landmines, claiming there is no ceasefire yet and it is not a violation of the Geneva Convention and the Ottawa Treaty.
Jalandoni said that when the detained NDF consultants protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) are released and get travel documents before August 20, “it would be better than not to resume formal peace talks on August 20-27, 2016 because it is during the formal talks that the GPH and NDFP negotiating panels can discuss the mode of ceasefire and how best to arrange this,” Jalandoni said in a statement e-mailed to media outlets at 10:31 p.m. on Sunday.
Reacting to Duterte’s early Sunday statement in Davo City that he would call off the talks if the NDF uses landmines again, Jalandoni said, “we wish to point out that the use of command-detonated land mines is not violative of the Geneva Convention and the Ottawa Treaty.”
He said NPA “can use these weapons in its military operations inasmuch as there is yet no ceasefire of any kind which is valid and effective between the NPA and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines).”
Jalandoni said the resumption of formal talks is necessary “to allow both negotiating panels to take up the mode of ceasefire, as stated in the Joint Statement signed in Oslo on June 15, 2016.”
He said they understand Duterte’s sentiments “in his official capacity and not at a personal level” because as commander in chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines “he has the duty to show official and personal concern for his troops and mourn their death as casualties of war.”
Ultimatum
Duterte early Sunday said the NDF “can say goodbye to the peace talks” if he hears another landmine explosion.
“I am not pleading this time. That’s an ultimatum. If I hear another explosion killing people, not only soldiers … no talks, pasensya na” (I’m sorry), Duterte announced at around 1 a.m. Sunday at the covered court of the Naval Station Felix Apolinario (NSFA) or Camp Panacan, after talking to the families of four soldiers slain on August 5 in two separate clashes with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Monkayo and Maragusan towns in Compostela Valley province.
“I would insist you include the landmine issues, or else no (peace) talks at all. Then, we fight for another 45 years,” he warned.
The three soldiers slain in Monkayo town were ambushed by NPA guerrillas who used high-powered firearms and a landmine, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division said.
Better at the nego table
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said the issue of landmines is better discussed during the formal resumption of the talks when the parties will tackle the declaration of a ceasefire.
“The use of command-detonated explosives (CODEX) is not specifically prohibited by international laws and conventions, especially if used against a combatant enemy force. What is clearly prohibited is its use against civilians. Even the independent Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) has advanced the same comment with regard the use of CODEX by the NPAs. Nonetheless, the negotiating panels of the GRP and NDFP can very well establish modalities and guidelines on this issue.”
The PBCL in a statement Sunday said they have been “trying to convince the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to unilaterally declare that they will not use landmines.”
“The command-detonated improvised landmines used by the NPA have the same effects as the globally banned anti-personnel landmines that violate international humanitarian law (IHL).”
The NPA owned up the August 5 ambush, in a statement issued by Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Operations Command.
He said the NPA “successfully ambushed a company of the 25th IB in Sitio Inuburan, Brgy. Rizal, killing 5 AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) troops, seizing two M203 grenade launchers, one M4 rifles, Harris radios, and several other military hardware.”
Only three soldiers, not five were killed in that ambush but 10 soldiers were also injured. A female guerrilla was also slain, her body recovered by the soldiers. Another soldier was killed in a clash with the NPA in Maragusan town afternoon of August 5 but another NPA guerrilla was also killed. In the outskirts of Valencia City on the same day, a soldier was also killed in yet another clash with the NPA.
Joint Statement
While still President-elect, Duterte sent then incoming Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza and then incoming government panel chair Silvestre Bello III to Oslo, to meet with Jalandoni and NDF chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison, Duterte’s professor in Political Thought at the Lyceum University in the 1960s.
In a Joint Statement, the parties agreed on a five-point agenda for what was supposed to be talks scheduled for July: the affirmation of previously signed agreements; accelerated process for negotiations, including the timeline for the completion of the remaining substantive agenda for the talks, socio-economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, and end of hostilities and disposition of forces; reconstitution of the JASIG list; Amnesty Proclamation for the release of all detained political prisoners, subject to concurrence by Congress; and mode of interim ceasefire.
They also agreed that the government panel under Duterte will recommend to the President the “immediate release of NDFP consultants and other JASIG-protected persons in accordance with the JASIG to enable them to participate in the peace negotiations;” and the “immediate release of prisoners/detainees based on humanitarian grounds.”
The Oslo talks will be the first round of formal peace negotiations under the Duterte administration.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/08/ndf-lets-talk-in-oslo-use-of-command-detonated-landmines-is-no-violation/
CPP rejects Duterte ultimatum on landmines, orders forces to expand use of command-detonated devices
From InterAksyon (Aug 9): CPP rejects Duterte ultimatum on landmines, orders forces to expand use of command-detonated devices
Communist rebels not only trashed President Rodrigo Duterte’s ultimatum to stop using command-detonated landmines, they have ordered the increased use of the weapons in operations against government security forces.
Duterte warned the rebels on Sunday he might call off peace negotiations scheduled to resume formally on August 20 if they continue the use of the explosive devices, also known as CDX mines, which he claimed violate the Geneva Conventions.
Earlier, he also took back the unilateral ceasefire he declared during his first state of the nation address after the rebels failed to meet a deadline he set for them to reciprocate the gesture.
Responding to Duterte’s latest threat, the Communist Party of the Philippines said it “rejects the new ultimatum” calling it a “poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic, with the aim of blaming the revolutionary forces of the repeated postponement of peace talks,” even as government has yet to release political prisoners, including consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
Nevertheless, the CPP said its forces “ever ready to work with the Duterte regime to actively pursue talks to resolve the roots of the armed conflict through negotiations” even as it stressed it “is not one to back down from threats of war by Duterte.”
In a separate statement, the CPP called on the New People’s Army to “further expand use” of CDX explosives “in launching tactical offensives against the reactionary armed forces, police and all its attached paramilitaries,” maintaining the mines “are legitimate weapons of war and are allowed under the Geneva Conventions and the Ottawa Treaty on Landmines."
The CPP said Duterte “is showing himself to be more and more cantankerous, inventing one reason after another to attack the CPP and NPA instead of finding ways to push forward peace negotiations,” and hinting that his “bellicose” statements are meant to “satisfy the base humor” of the military.
It explained that what the Ottawa Treaty bans are contact-detonated anti-personnel mines triggered by "the presence, proximity or contact of a person."
"Contrary to Duterte's demand for the NPA to stop using its CDX landmines, the NPA and the people's militias must further expand the use of such weapons," it said.
It called CDX mines “a poor man’s weapon” that are “mass-produced by people who have no recourse to the expensive rockets and howitzers of state-funded armies” and are “effectively used by those who have mastery of terrain.”
“The mass movement to manufacture CDX landmines must be stepped-up,” the CPP said. “Every unit of the NPA, including all units of the people's militias, must have their own supply of CDX landmines, and must have the skill and plan to employ these as defensive and offensive weapons against the enemy."
At the same time, it dared the Armed Forces of the Philippines to make good on its threat to file charges against the rebels “for violating international conventions over the use of CDX landmines.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/131247/cpp-rejects-duterte-ultimatum-on-landmines-orders-forces-to-expand-use-of-command-detonated-devices
Communist rebels not only trashed President Rodrigo Duterte’s ultimatum to stop using command-detonated landmines, they have ordered the increased use of the weapons in operations against government security forces.
Duterte warned the rebels on Sunday he might call off peace negotiations scheduled to resume formally on August 20 if they continue the use of the explosive devices, also known as CDX mines, which he claimed violate the Geneva Conventions.
Earlier, he also took back the unilateral ceasefire he declared during his first state of the nation address after the rebels failed to meet a deadline he set for them to reciprocate the gesture.
Responding to Duterte’s latest threat, the Communist Party of the Philippines said it “rejects the new ultimatum” calling it a “poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic, with the aim of blaming the revolutionary forces of the repeated postponement of peace talks,” even as government has yet to release political prisoners, including consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
Nevertheless, the CPP said its forces “ever ready to work with the Duterte regime to actively pursue talks to resolve the roots of the armed conflict through negotiations” even as it stressed it “is not one to back down from threats of war by Duterte.”
In a separate statement, the CPP called on the New People’s Army to “further expand use” of CDX explosives “in launching tactical offensives against the reactionary armed forces, police and all its attached paramilitaries,” maintaining the mines “are legitimate weapons of war and are allowed under the Geneva Conventions and the Ottawa Treaty on Landmines."
The CPP said Duterte “is showing himself to be more and more cantankerous, inventing one reason after another to attack the CPP and NPA instead of finding ways to push forward peace negotiations,” and hinting that his “bellicose” statements are meant to “satisfy the base humor” of the military.
It explained that what the Ottawa Treaty bans are contact-detonated anti-personnel mines triggered by "the presence, proximity or contact of a person."
"Contrary to Duterte's demand for the NPA to stop using its CDX landmines, the NPA and the people's militias must further expand the use of such weapons," it said.
It called CDX mines “a poor man’s weapon” that are “mass-produced by people who have no recourse to the expensive rockets and howitzers of state-funded armies” and are “effectively used by those who have mastery of terrain.”
“The mass movement to manufacture CDX landmines must be stepped-up,” the CPP said. “Every unit of the NPA, including all units of the people's militias, must have their own supply of CDX landmines, and must have the skill and plan to employ these as defensive and offensive weapons against the enemy."
At the same time, it dared the Armed Forces of the Philippines to make good on its threat to file charges against the rebels “for violating international conventions over the use of CDX landmines.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/131247/cpp-rejects-duterte-ultimatum-on-landmines-orders-forces-to-expand-use-of-command-detonated-devices
MISS UNIVERSE TERROR THREAT: ISIS calls on jihadis to bomb beauty pageant in chilling video showing how to make a suicide belt
From The Sun (Aug 8): MISS UNIVERSE TERROR THREAT: ISIS calls on jihadis to bomb beauty pageant in chilling video showing how to make a suicide belt
Threat follows growing tension in the South East Asian nation
A FILIPINO terrorist communication channel has suggested jihadis attack the 2016 Miss Universe contest in the Philippines.
The threat was suggested during a video on how to make a suicide bomb.
Filipino-German model, Pia Wurtzbach, being crowned Miss Universe in 2016
The exact location of Miss Universe 2017 has not been chosen yet, but Pia Wurtzbach will be there to announce her successor. The winner of the competition is to be crowned on January 30, 2017.
The threat follows growing tension throughout South East Asia.
Since videos of Southeast Asian recruits fighting under the black flag of ISIS emerged two years ago, sympathy towards the terrorist group has been growing in the region.
SITE Intel Group @siteintelgroup
Threat follows growing tension in the South East Asian nation
A FILIPINO terrorist communication channel has suggested jihadis attack the 2016 Miss Universe contest in the Philippines.
The threat was suggested during a video on how to make a suicide bomb.
Filipino-German model, Pia Wurtzbach, being crowned Miss Universe in 2016
The exact location of Miss Universe 2017 has not been chosen yet, but Pia Wurtzbach will be there to announce her successor. The winner of the competition is to be crowned on January 30, 2017.
The threat follows growing tension throughout South East Asia.
Since videos of Southeast Asian recruits fighting under the black flag of ISIS emerged two years ago, sympathy towards the terrorist group has been growing in the region.
SITE Intel Group @siteintelgroup
A #Filipino jihadi Telegram channel posted a video for making an explosive belt and suggested "Create bomb for miss universe" #MissUniverse
Govt should urge Philippines to implement trilateral agreement: House
From Antara News (Aug 9): Govt should urge Philippines to implement trilateral agreement: House
The Indonesian government should urge the Philippines to implement trilateral cooperation agreed to among Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia to handle robbery and hostage-taking cases in their water areas, a member of House Commission I Elnino MH Mohi remarked.
"We must demand of the Philippines to carry out trilateral maritime patrols properly," Elnino MH Mohi said here on Monday.
He suspected that the Philippine Armed Forces were not capable of securing the release of the Indonesian hostages.
"If the Philippines is not able to free the hostages, we should help its government. Unfortunately, our military cannot conduct its operation in that country," the lawmaker stated.
He referred to the latest case of kidnapping and hostage-taking of an Indonesian citizen.
He called on the government not to compromise in a situation of hostage-taking involving Indonesians, and added that such kidnappings were being allegedly orchestrated by the Abu Sayyaf group.
With regard to the release of Indonesian hostages, he said he trusted the State Intelligence Agency as an institution well equipped with the best abilities to secure freedom of the hostages.
Earlier, the Director of Citizen and Legal Entities Protection of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Lalu Muhammad Iqbal, had confirmed that several gunmen have abducted the captain of a fishing trawler in the Malaysian waters. He was an Indonesian.
"We were notified on August 5 that the abducted person is an Indonesian captain of a Malaysian flagged-fishing trawler, and that the incident happened in the Malaysian waters," Iqbal said here on Sunday.
Iqbal explained that the fishing trawler was attacked by the gunmen on August 3, at around 4 p.m. local time.
There were two other crew members on board when the incident occurred, but the gunmen released them, and they reported the incident to the police in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, on August 5.
Following this, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur and consulate general in Kota Kinabalu worked closely with the local authorities, the freed crewmen, ship company, and the Philippine authority, to seek more detailed information, Iqbal added.
According to a local newspaper, The Star, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSC) director Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Khalid confirmed that a report had been filed by the owner of the fishing trawler on Saturday, two days after the abduction allegedly happened.
Khalid also told the newspaper that the incident did not seem like a usual case of kidnapping and a police investigation is in progress.
At present, the two crewmen and the trawler are being held for investigation.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/106148/govt-should-urge-philippines-to-implement-trilateral-agreement-house
The Indonesian government should urge the Philippines to implement trilateral cooperation agreed to among Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia to handle robbery and hostage-taking cases in their water areas, a member of House Commission I Elnino MH Mohi remarked.
"We must demand of the Philippines to carry out trilateral maritime patrols properly," Elnino MH Mohi said here on Monday.
He suspected that the Philippine Armed Forces were not capable of securing the release of the Indonesian hostages.
"If the Philippines is not able to free the hostages, we should help its government. Unfortunately, our military cannot conduct its operation in that country," the lawmaker stated.
He referred to the latest case of kidnapping and hostage-taking of an Indonesian citizen.
He called on the government not to compromise in a situation of hostage-taking involving Indonesians, and added that such kidnappings were being allegedly orchestrated by the Abu Sayyaf group.
With regard to the release of Indonesian hostages, he said he trusted the State Intelligence Agency as an institution well equipped with the best abilities to secure freedom of the hostages.
Earlier, the Director of Citizen and Legal Entities Protection of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Lalu Muhammad Iqbal, had confirmed that several gunmen have abducted the captain of a fishing trawler in the Malaysian waters. He was an Indonesian.
"We were notified on August 5 that the abducted person is an Indonesian captain of a Malaysian flagged-fishing trawler, and that the incident happened in the Malaysian waters," Iqbal said here on Sunday.
Iqbal explained that the fishing trawler was attacked by the gunmen on August 3, at around 4 p.m. local time.
There were two other crew members on board when the incident occurred, but the gunmen released them, and they reported the incident to the police in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, on August 5.
Following this, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur and consulate general in Kota Kinabalu worked closely with the local authorities, the freed crewmen, ship company, and the Philippine authority, to seek more detailed information, Iqbal added.
According to a local newspaper, The Star, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSC) director Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Khalid confirmed that a report had been filed by the owner of the fishing trawler on Saturday, two days after the abduction allegedly happened.
Khalid also told the newspaper that the incident did not seem like a usual case of kidnapping and a police investigation is in progress.
At present, the two crewmen and the trawler are being held for investigation.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/106148/govt-should-urge-philippines-to-implement-trilateral-agreement-house
Govt unable to secure quick release of hostages as they are abroad: Jokowi
From Antara News (Aug 9): Govt unable to secure quick release of hostages as they are abroad: Jokowi
President Joko Widodo admitted here on Monday that the government could not act fast to secure the release of Indonesian citizens being held hostage in the Philippines because they are currently in the territory of a foreign country.
"We must understand that they are not in our territory and so we cannot move fast to intervene. They are in a foreign countrys territory," he said after an event to familiarize the business community with the tax amnesty program.
President Joko Widodo also confirmed that another Indonesian citizen had been abducted by Abu Sayyaf while aboard a Malaysian boat.
Herman bi Manggak, the skipper of a shrimp boat belonging to Malaysia, was abducted while sailing in the Kinabatang in Sabah waters bordering the Philippines on Wednesday (Aug 3).
"Again, we must understand that it was a Malaysian boat that was ambushed while our citizen happened to be there," he said.
President Joko Widodo said that the Philippine government have pounded and laid a siege to the areas which are believed to be used by the Abu Sayyaf group as its base.
Foreign ministry spokesman Armanatha Nasir told newsmen on Sunday that actually, there were two other crewmen - one an Indonesian citizen and another a Malaysian who were also abducted but they were released.
The abduction of Herman took the total number of Indonesian citizens being held hostage by Abu Sayyaf to 11. Seven of them were members of the crew of TB Charles and were abducted at the end of June while three others were abducted at the end of July in the waters in the eastern part of Sabah.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/106144/govt-unable-to-secure-quick-release-of-hostages-as-they-are-abroad-jokowi
President Joko Widodo admitted here on Monday that the government could not act fast to secure the release of Indonesian citizens being held hostage in the Philippines because they are currently in the territory of a foreign country.
"We must understand that they are not in our territory and so we cannot move fast to intervene. They are in a foreign countrys territory," he said after an event to familiarize the business community with the tax amnesty program.
President Joko Widodo also confirmed that another Indonesian citizen had been abducted by Abu Sayyaf while aboard a Malaysian boat.
Herman bi Manggak, the skipper of a shrimp boat belonging to Malaysia, was abducted while sailing in the Kinabatang in Sabah waters bordering the Philippines on Wednesday (Aug 3).
"Again, we must understand that it was a Malaysian boat that was ambushed while our citizen happened to be there," he said.
President Joko Widodo said that the Philippine government have pounded and laid a siege to the areas which are believed to be used by the Abu Sayyaf group as its base.
Foreign ministry spokesman Armanatha Nasir told newsmen on Sunday that actually, there were two other crewmen - one an Indonesian citizen and another a Malaysian who were also abducted but they were released.
The abduction of Herman took the total number of Indonesian citizens being held hostage by Abu Sayyaf to 11. Seven of them were members of the crew of TB Charles and were abducted at the end of June while three others were abducted at the end of July in the waters in the eastern part of Sabah.
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/106144/govt-unable-to-secure-quick-release-of-hostages-as-they-are-abroad-jokowi
Duterte ready to talk to Reds with or without Joma
From the Philippine Star (Aug 8): Duterte ready to talk to Reds with or without Joma
President Rodrigo Duterte said peace talks with the communist rebels can continue even without communist party founder Jose Maria Sison. File photo
The peace talks with communist rebels can continue even without their leader Jose Maria Sison, President Rodrigo Duterte said Monday as he criticized the leftist guerillas for extorting money from businesses.
President Rodrigo Duterte said peace talks with the communist rebels can continue even without communist party founder Jose Maria Sison. File photo
The peace talks with communist rebels can continue even without their leader Jose Maria Sison, President Rodrigo Duterte said Monday as he criticized the leftist guerillas for extorting money from businesses.
Speaking to soldiers in Catbalogan, Samar, Duterte said the government is determined to talk peace with the communists so that the next generation would not have to grapple with insurgency.
“We want peace. They do not seem to like it. Maybe they like it. But still, we would insist we talk with or without Sison, with or without the politburo,” Duterte said, referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) policymaking body.
“My job as a president is not to look for fight and to allow people to die. My job as president is to seek peace with everybody so we can move on to the next generation, so that the next generation will not have a problem with insurrection and go anywhere throughout the country and develop the republic,” he added.
Duterte issued the statement 12 days before the resumption of the peace negotiations between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political arm of the communists, in Oslo, Norway.
The Norwegian government serves as third-party facilitator for the talks.
Duterte’s remarks also came after he and Sison had a series of verbal exchanges over the president’s decision to call off the ceasefire with the communist rebels.
The president declared a truce during his first State of the Nation Address on July 25 as a goodwill measure for the resumption of the talks. He, however, decided to lift the ceasefire five days later due to the communists’ failure to reciprocate with their own truce.
Duterte demanded that the CPP implement its own ceasefire after communist guerillas ambushed militiamen in Davao del Norte on July 27, killing one militiaman dead and four others wounded.
The lifting of the ceasefire did not sit well with Sison, who scored Duterte for supposedly acting like a bully. Some local leaders of the communist movement even accused the military of “sabotaging” the government truce.
Duterte continued his tirades against the communists Monday, saying the rebels are resorting to extortion to sustain their operations.
Duterte: It’s extortion, not a revolutionary act
In Mindanao, especially my region (Davao), they are strong and they survived. You know why? Because of extortion. They extort from banana (plantations), mining. They thrive there because they are already into extortion,” the president said.
“I used to call them an revolutionary act but I am now ticked off,” he added.
Security officials previously reported that the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the communists, has collected millions from companies and politicians. They said the usual targets of the insurgents are mining firms, logging companies and plantations.
Duterte stressed that he would forego the peace talks if the rebels continue to use landmines, which is prohibited under the Geneva Convention. He said the communists have been using the explosives to target vehicles carrying civilians including the families of soldiers.
“I am not issuing a warning. I’m not even giving an ultimatum. I’m just saying, if a landmine explodes again, which is prohibited by the Geneva Convention, I’ll forego the peace talks. Forget about it. The government cannot kneel down all the time. It’s impossible,” the president said.
“If I hear another explosion, goodbye. To the peace panel, just go home. Don’t waste your money there and talk nonsense,” he added.
“I’ll not plead for it because I’m the president.”
Duterte reiterated his call for communists to abandon their decades-old armed struggle.
“You’ve have been at war with the government for 45 years. Do you want to fight for another 45 years?” he said.
Duterte previously said that he is ready to hold “marathon talks” to address the insurgency problem plaguing the country.
Reds frown at Duterte’s ultimatum, call for more offensives
From the pro-Communist Party of the Philippines online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Aug 8): Reds frown at Duterte’s ultimatum, call for more offensives
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said President Rodrigo Duterte’s threat of postponing the peace talks over the New People’s Army (NPA) use of command-detonated landmines “smacks of a poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic, with the aim of blaming the revolutionary forces for the repeated postponement of peace talks.”
On Aug. 7, following an ambush by NPA guerrillas against soldiers of the 25th Infantry Battalion in sitio Inuburan, barangay Rizal, Monkayo, Compostela Valley, Duterte warned the NPA to stop using land mines or else, there would be no peace talks.
The CPP noted that Duterte issued the ultimatum despite having yet to fulfill his own promise to release detained consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and political prisoners.
“He (Duterte) is showing himself to be more and more cantankerous, inventing one reason after another to attack the CPP and NPA instead of finding ways to push forward peace negotiations,” the CPP said.
The GRP-NDFP formal talks are slated this Aug. 20 to Aug. 27 in Oslo, Norway.
The CPP said that as Duterte hops from one military camp to another, he is “daily becoming more bellicose issuing threats of intensifying war.”
The CPP urged Duterte to fulfill his promise to release all NDFP consultants in order to have them lend their expertise in scheduled negotiations.
The CPP said all revolutionary forces are ready to work with Duterte to actively pursue talks to resolve the roots of the armed conflict through negotiations. It added however that the CPP is not one to back down from threats of war by Duterte.
“Waging people’s war has always been the path to strengthen the revolution and accumulate victories,” the CPP said.
The CPP said the NPA must expand the use of command-detonated explosives in launching tactical offensives against state forces.
The CPP reiterated that command-detonated explosives are legitimate weapons of war and are allowed under the Geneva Conventions and the Ottawa Treaty on Landmines. “Perhaps, he has not been closely listening to explanations about landmine conventions and distinctions made about different types of landmines,” the CPP said.
The CPP pointed out that the aim of the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines is to protect civilians from accidental explosions. It added that the explosives and landmines used by NPA are command-detonated or blasted manually, some with a battery-powered electronic trigger held by a Red fighter.
The CPP said there is no incident where a command-detonated landmine laid by the NPA was accidentally exploded by a civilian.
The CPP added that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has repeatedly threatened to file charges against the NPA for violating international conventions over the use of command-detonated landmines but not one case has been filed. “We challenge them to do so,” the CPP said.
The CPP said command-detonated landmines are “a poor man’s weapon,” which are mass-produced by people who have no recourse to the expensive rockets and howitzers of state-funded armies.
So far, the CPP said the use of command-detonated landmines has been proven to be highly effective weapons at thwarting the frenzied military offensives of the AFP. “This is the reason why the AFP has been so adamant in its demand for the NPA to stop using CDX landmines to the point of mindlessly citing international prohibitions even without a comprehensive and clear understanding of those,” it said.
At the moment, no ceasefire exists between government forces and NPA guerrillas. The CPP, however, earlier said it is willing to declare a unilateral, separate ceasefire on Aug. 20.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2016/08/08/reds-frown-at-dutertes-ultimatum-call-for-more-offensives/
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said President Rodrigo Duterte’s threat of postponing the peace talks over the New People’s Army (NPA) use of command-detonated landmines “smacks of a poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic, with the aim of blaming the revolutionary forces for the repeated postponement of peace talks.”
On Aug. 7, following an ambush by NPA guerrillas against soldiers of the 25th Infantry Battalion in sitio Inuburan, barangay Rizal, Monkayo, Compostela Valley, Duterte warned the NPA to stop using land mines or else, there would be no peace talks.
The CPP noted that Duterte issued the ultimatum despite having yet to fulfill his own promise to release detained consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and political prisoners.
“He (Duterte) is showing himself to be more and more cantankerous, inventing one reason after another to attack the CPP and NPA instead of finding ways to push forward peace negotiations,” the CPP said.
The GRP-NDFP formal talks are slated this Aug. 20 to Aug. 27 in Oslo, Norway.
The CPP said that as Duterte hops from one military camp to another, he is “daily becoming more bellicose issuing threats of intensifying war.”
The CPP urged Duterte to fulfill his promise to release all NDFP consultants in order to have them lend their expertise in scheduled negotiations.
The CPP said all revolutionary forces are ready to work with Duterte to actively pursue talks to resolve the roots of the armed conflict through negotiations. It added however that the CPP is not one to back down from threats of war by Duterte.
“Waging people’s war has always been the path to strengthen the revolution and accumulate victories,” the CPP said.
The CPP said the NPA must expand the use of command-detonated explosives in launching tactical offensives against state forces.
The CPP reiterated that command-detonated explosives are legitimate weapons of war and are allowed under the Geneva Conventions and the Ottawa Treaty on Landmines. “Perhaps, he has not been closely listening to explanations about landmine conventions and distinctions made about different types of landmines,” the CPP said.
The CPP pointed out that the aim of the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines is to protect civilians from accidental explosions. It added that the explosives and landmines used by NPA are command-detonated or blasted manually, some with a battery-powered electronic trigger held by a Red fighter.
The CPP said there is no incident where a command-detonated landmine laid by the NPA was accidentally exploded by a civilian.
The CPP added that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has repeatedly threatened to file charges against the NPA for violating international conventions over the use of command-detonated landmines but not one case has been filed. “We challenge them to do so,” the CPP said.
The CPP said command-detonated landmines are “a poor man’s weapon,” which are mass-produced by people who have no recourse to the expensive rockets and howitzers of state-funded armies.
So far, the CPP said the use of command-detonated landmines has been proven to be highly effective weapons at thwarting the frenzied military offensives of the AFP. “This is the reason why the AFP has been so adamant in its demand for the NPA to stop using CDX landmines to the point of mindlessly citing international prohibitions even without a comprehensive and clear understanding of those,” it said.
At the moment, no ceasefire exists between government forces and NPA guerrillas. The CPP, however, earlier said it is willing to declare a unilateral, separate ceasefire on Aug. 20.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2016/08/08/reds-frown-at-dutertes-ultimatum-call-for-more-offensives/
Left to press courts for 22 consultants' release
From ABS-CBN (Aug 8): Left to press courts for 22 consultants' release
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) will ask local courts on Tuesday to free its 22 consultants in a bid to ensure their participation in the formal peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway this month.
The political prisoners, led by Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, could be released within two days if prosecutors would not object, said NDFP lawyer Edre Olalia, who also acknowledged that not all of them might be set free in time for the resumption of talks on August 20.
READ: Tiamzon couple: Arrest shows gov't is 'balasubas'
Olalia said failure to release any of the consultants would be a "decisive factor" on whether the talks would push through as scheduled or would be delayed until all of them were released.
Satur Ocampo, a former chief NDFP negotiator, said releasing the 22 political prisoners before August 20 would be the "best starting point" for the talks.
"Ang mahalaga diyan magkaroon ng mga releases (What's important is to have releases)," Randall Echanis, an NDFP consultant, told a forum Monday.
The Supreme Court earlier turned down a government request to release 10 consultants, saying it should instead be made before the local courts that have jurisdiction over their cases.
One such case involves the alleged purging of communists rebels, whose bodies were discovered in a mass grave in Leyte.
But the Supreme Court said the courts "shall give utmost priority to the hearing of such motions and manifestations in view of the grave importance of peace to the Filipino people."
The government is set to resume formal talks with communist rebels in a bid to end one of the world's longest-running Maoist campaigns that has killed more than 30,000 people in nearly half a century.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/08/16/left-to-press-courts-for-22-consultants-release
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) will ask local courts on Tuesday to free its 22 consultants in a bid to ensure their participation in the formal peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway this month.
The political prisoners, led by Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, could be released within two days if prosecutors would not object, said NDFP lawyer Edre Olalia, who also acknowledged that not all of them might be set free in time for the resumption of talks on August 20.
READ: Tiamzon couple: Arrest shows gov't is 'balasubas'
Olalia said failure to release any of the consultants would be a "decisive factor" on whether the talks would push through as scheduled or would be delayed until all of them were released.
Satur Ocampo, a former chief NDFP negotiator, said releasing the 22 political prisoners before August 20 would be the "best starting point" for the talks.
The Supreme Court earlier turned down a government request to release 10 consultants, saying it should instead be made before the local courts that have jurisdiction over their cases.
One such case involves the alleged purging of communists rebels, whose bodies were discovered in a mass grave in Leyte.
But the Supreme Court said the courts "shall give utmost priority to the hearing of such motions and manifestations in view of the grave importance of peace to the Filipino people."
The government is set to resume formal talks with communist rebels in a bid to end one of the world's longest-running Maoist campaigns that has killed more than 30,000 people in nearly half a century.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/08/16/left-to-press-courts-for-22-consultants-release
Duterte renews threat to scrap talks with Reds
From ABS-CBN (Aug 8): Duterte renews threat to scrap talks with Reds
President Rodrigo Duterte views the remains of one of the soldiers killed by New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Compostela Valley on August 5. Kiwi Bulaclac, Malacanang Photo
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday reiterated his call for the New People's Army (NPA) to stop using landmines or he will scrap peace talks with the communist rebels.
Speaking in front of government troops in Camp General Vicente Lukban in Catbalogan, Samar, Duterte criticized the Communist Party of the Philippines' armed wing for using landmines, while invoking the Geneva Convention to their benefit.
"Sabi ko nga, and I'd like to repeat the statement. When it is to your favor, you want the Geneva Convention. When it is not, then you invoke on it. Mahuli kayo, then you file cases against the soldiers. And yet 'yung truck na pabalik ng kampo, may mga sibilyan nakisakay, or the family of the soldier, binibira niyo ng landmine," he said.
The President warned that he will set aside peace talks if he learns about another landmine attack against government troops.
"I am just giving you, I will not plead for it because I am the President. I'll just state directly. We want peace. Lahat kayo, pamilya ninyo. But do you not use that landmine. 'Pag may narinig ako na isang putok, goodbye 'yan (peace talks). At kayong peace panel, umuwi na kayo dito. 'Wag niyong sayangin, waste your money there. Talk nonsense. Hindi ako nagwa-warning, I'm not giving you an ultimatum, even," Duterte said.
"I'm just saying na kung puputok ulit ang land mine, which is prohibited by the Geneva Convention, I will forego with the peace talks, and forget about it," he added.
The President earlier said the rebels couldn't hold the military accountable for alleged war crimes if the NPA continues to use landmines.
Duterte revoked a unilateral ceasefire with the NPA last week after the insurgents failed to reciprocate within his 24-hour deadline that ended on July 30.
The National Democratic Front (NDF), on the other hand, claimed that the use of "command-detonated" landmines by the NPA does not violate the Geneva Convention.
The CPP has also rejected the "ultimatum" set by Duterte, calling it a "poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic."
The CPP accused Duterte of becoming "militarized," and "obsessed with ending the armed revolution through suppression."
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/08/16/duterte-renews-threat-to-scrap-talks-with-reds
President Rodrigo Duterte views the remains of one of the soldiers killed by New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Compostela Valley on August 5. Kiwi Bulaclac, Malacanang Photo
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday reiterated his call for the New People's Army (NPA) to stop using landmines or he will scrap peace talks with the communist rebels.
Speaking in front of government troops in Camp General Vicente Lukban in Catbalogan, Samar, Duterte criticized the Communist Party of the Philippines' armed wing for using landmines, while invoking the Geneva Convention to their benefit.
"Sabi ko nga, and I'd like to repeat the statement. When it is to your favor, you want the Geneva Convention. When it is not, then you invoke on it. Mahuli kayo, then you file cases against the soldiers. And yet 'yung truck na pabalik ng kampo, may mga sibilyan nakisakay, or the family of the soldier, binibira niyo ng landmine," he said.
The President warned that he will set aside peace talks if he learns about another landmine attack against government troops.
"I am just giving you, I will not plead for it because I am the President. I'll just state directly. We want peace. Lahat kayo, pamilya ninyo. But do you not use that landmine. 'Pag may narinig ako na isang putok, goodbye 'yan (peace talks). At kayong peace panel, umuwi na kayo dito. 'Wag niyong sayangin, waste your money there. Talk nonsense. Hindi ako nagwa-warning, I'm not giving you an ultimatum, even," Duterte said.
The President earlier said the rebels couldn't hold the military accountable for alleged war crimes if the NPA continues to use landmines.
Duterte revoked a unilateral ceasefire with the NPA last week after the insurgents failed to reciprocate within his 24-hour deadline that ended on July 30.
The National Democratic Front (NDF), on the other hand, claimed that the use of "command-detonated" landmines by the NPA does not violate the Geneva Convention.
The CPP has also rejected the "ultimatum" set by Duterte, calling it a "poorly-crafted deflectionary tactic."
The CPP accused Duterte of becoming "militarized," and "obsessed with ending the armed revolution through suppression."
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/08/16/duterte-renews-threat-to-scrap-talks-with-reds
Hiligaynon News: Mga anay rebelde pagahatagan sang duta
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 8): Hiligaynon News: Mga anay rebelde pagahatagan sang duta (Former rebels will be given land)
SYUDAD SANG ROXAS, Capiz – Ginpasalig ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ang anay mga rebelde nga hatagan sila sang duta.
Ini matapos nga nagtambong ang kapin sa 17 ka mga katapo sang New People’s Army nga nagbalik sa sabak sang gobyerno sa pagbisita sang Presidente sa kampo sang 3rd Infantry Division sa Jamindan, Capiz.
Ang nasambit nga mga anay rebelde ang gikan sa banwa sang Tapaz.
Ginpasalig ni Pangulong Duterte sa mga ini nga pagahatagan sila sang duta nga mangin ila kag sarang nila mapangumhan.
Ini bilang sabat sa pamangkot kon paano sila mabuligan sang Presidente sa ila pagsugod sa bag-o nga kabuhi.
Maluwas sa duha, hatagan man sila sang semilya para inogtanom diri, lakip na ang pagpaandam sang Pangulo nga indi pag-ibaligya ang duta nga igahatag sang gobyerno.
Gin-apilar man ni Pangulong Duterte sa mga ini ang kabudlay sa pagpasakop sa grupo nga nagakontra sa gobyerno bangud wala sang grupo nga nagakontra sa gobyerno ang nagadaog.
Ginpapahundom man sa mga ini nga dapat malooy sila sa mga kabataan nga amo ang masami nga naapektuhan sa pagpasakop nila sa amo nga grupo.
Ginhingyo man niya ang mga ini sa pagbulig agud mangin malinong kag matawhay sa Pilipinas.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991470637463/hiligaynon-news-mga-anay-rebelde-pagahatagan-sang-duta
SYUDAD SANG ROXAS, Capiz – Ginpasalig ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ang anay mga rebelde nga hatagan sila sang duta.
Ini matapos nga nagtambong ang kapin sa 17 ka mga katapo sang New People’s Army nga nagbalik sa sabak sang gobyerno sa pagbisita sang Presidente sa kampo sang 3rd Infantry Division sa Jamindan, Capiz.
Ang nasambit nga mga anay rebelde ang gikan sa banwa sang Tapaz.
Ginpasalig ni Pangulong Duterte sa mga ini nga pagahatagan sila sang duta nga mangin ila kag sarang nila mapangumhan.
Ini bilang sabat sa pamangkot kon paano sila mabuligan sang Presidente sa ila pagsugod sa bag-o nga kabuhi.
Maluwas sa duha, hatagan man sila sang semilya para inogtanom diri, lakip na ang pagpaandam sang Pangulo nga indi pag-ibaligya ang duta nga igahatag sang gobyerno.
Gin-apilar man ni Pangulong Duterte sa mga ini ang kabudlay sa pagpasakop sa grupo nga nagakontra sa gobyerno bangud wala sang grupo nga nagakontra sa gobyerno ang nagadaog.
Ginpapahundom man sa mga ini nga dapat malooy sila sa mga kabataan nga amo ang masami nga naapektuhan sa pagpasakop nila sa amo nga grupo.
Ginhingyo man niya ang mga ini sa pagbulig agud mangin malinong kag matawhay sa Pilipinas.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991470637463/hiligaynon-news-mga-anay-rebelde-pagahatagan-sang-duta
Two NPA rebels surrender in Agusan Sur
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 8): Two NPA rebels surrender in Agusan Sur
Two communist guerillas operating in the municipality of Loreto, Agusan del Sur have voluntarily surrendered to authorities recently at the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) headquarters in Barangay San Nicolas, Talacogon, this province.
Commanding officer of 26IB Lt. Col. Rommel Pagayon together with Talacogon mayor Jesryl Masendo formally received the two NPA rebels from the Front 34 of Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
Through the facilitation of the Ever Onward troopers, the two NPA rebels, whose names are still withheld for their security, personally yielded at the headquarters bringing along with them their firearms.
They are now being processed for enrollment to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
They are likely to receive immediate assistance and other benefits from the said program, it was learned.
LTC Pagayon urged other rebels in the communist movement to surrender and abandon armed struggle and become productive members of the mainstream society.
He also added that through the convergence of all stakeholders in the province, just and lasting peace can be attained.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041470636635/two-npa-rebels-surrender-in-agusan-sur
Two communist guerillas operating in the municipality of Loreto, Agusan del Sur have voluntarily surrendered to authorities recently at the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB) headquarters in Barangay San Nicolas, Talacogon, this province.
Commanding officer of 26IB Lt. Col. Rommel Pagayon together with Talacogon mayor Jesryl Masendo formally received the two NPA rebels from the Front 34 of Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
Through the facilitation of the Ever Onward troopers, the two NPA rebels, whose names are still withheld for their security, personally yielded at the headquarters bringing along with them their firearms.
They are now being processed for enrollment to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
They are likely to receive immediate assistance and other benefits from the said program, it was learned.
LTC Pagayon urged other rebels in the communist movement to surrender and abandon armed struggle and become productive members of the mainstream society.
He also added that through the convergence of all stakeholders in the province, just and lasting peace can be attained.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041470636635/two-npa-rebels-surrender-in-agusan-sur
Ambushed CAFGUs receives assistance from President
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 8): Ambushed CAFGUs receives assistance from President
ASUNCION, Davao del Norte — A few days after the unexpected ambush incident in Kapalong, Davao del Norte perpetrated by the New People’s Army (NPA) against elements of the AFP’s CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA), an infuriated President Rodrigo Duterte flew straight to the 60th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Asuncion, Davao del Norte to personally extend his condolences and financial assistance to the family of the killed victim and to the two others (CAA members) wounded during the incident.
In his visit last July 29, Duterte gave an immediate financial assistance of P20,000.00 to the family of the killed CAA member; and P10,000.00 each to the wounded personnel. During a press conference following his visit, Duterte showed a paper containing the amounts of financial assistance that he wills to give to the slain victims as well as those injured in battle.
On Tuesday, August 2, Governor Anthony Del Rosario of Davao del Norte also visited Headquarters 60IB to extend financial aid to the family of the killed CAA as well as the other victims. Del Rosario, while thanking the victims for the services that they have been rendering to their community as members of the CAFGU, further assured them that all help will be duly given to them by the government.
He asked Colonel Ricardo Nepomuceno of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade to facilitate a meeting for a review of the peace and security situation of the province.
The family has already filed charges in court and is now processing another complaint to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) GPH-NDF Joint Monitoring Committee for violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIL) by the NPA.
The said ambush, which took the life of one CAA and wounded two others, was, for Duterte, disrespectful to his earlier pronouncement of a unilateral ceasefire. The following day, on July 30, without a reciprocal declaration from the CPP-NPA-NDF leadership, Duterte called off the unilateral ceasefire of the government.
All AFP units, meanwhile, has been put on red alert status effective 5:00 p.m. of July 30.(Civil-Military Operations,60th Infantry (MEDIATOR) Battalion, 10ID, PA)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591470627665/ambushed-cafgus-receives-assistance-from-president
ASUNCION, Davao del Norte — A few days after the unexpected ambush incident in Kapalong, Davao del Norte perpetrated by the New People’s Army (NPA) against elements of the AFP’s CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA), an infuriated President Rodrigo Duterte flew straight to the 60th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Asuncion, Davao del Norte to personally extend his condolences and financial assistance to the family of the killed victim and to the two others (CAA members) wounded during the incident.
In his visit last July 29, Duterte gave an immediate financial assistance of P20,000.00 to the family of the killed CAA member; and P10,000.00 each to the wounded personnel. During a press conference following his visit, Duterte showed a paper containing the amounts of financial assistance that he wills to give to the slain victims as well as those injured in battle.
On Tuesday, August 2, Governor Anthony Del Rosario of Davao del Norte also visited Headquarters 60IB to extend financial aid to the family of the killed CAA as well as the other victims. Del Rosario, while thanking the victims for the services that they have been rendering to their community as members of the CAFGU, further assured them that all help will be duly given to them by the government.
He asked Colonel Ricardo Nepomuceno of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade to facilitate a meeting for a review of the peace and security situation of the province.
The family has already filed charges in court and is now processing another complaint to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) GPH-NDF Joint Monitoring Committee for violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIL) by the NPA.
The said ambush, which took the life of one CAA and wounded two others, was, for Duterte, disrespectful to his earlier pronouncement of a unilateral ceasefire. The following day, on July 30, without a reciprocal declaration from the CPP-NPA-NDF leadership, Duterte called off the unilateral ceasefire of the government.
All AFP units, meanwhile, has been put on red alert status effective 5:00 p.m. of July 30.(Civil-Military Operations,60th Infantry (MEDIATOR) Battalion, 10ID, PA)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591470627665/ambushed-cafgus-receives-assistance-from-president
Defense ministers affirm Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 8): Defense ministers affirm Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement
The defense chiefs of the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia met in Bali on August 2 to further discuss the current security challenges in the region, especially in the maritime areas of common concern.
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Indonesian Defense Minister General (R) Ryamizard Ryacudu and Malaysian Defense Minister Dato’ Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein reiterated their commitment to the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement signed in Jakarta on 14 July 2016.
The three defense leaders agreed to encourage the operationalization of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Maritime Patrol and Rendering Immediate Assistance; Operating Guidelines on Information and Intelligence Sharing; and Combined Communication Plan.
Recognizing the mutual trust and high responsibility from all parties, the defense chiefs agreed to further explore coordinated activities among the Armed Forces of the three countries, a trilateral database sharing mechanism, and the concept of the Malacca Strait Patrol (MSP) to address maritime security concerns, among others.
During the meeting, the leaders also reiterated their stand against violent extremism and terrorism, and concern over the repeated incidents of armed robbery and kidnapping at sea in the maritime areas of common concern to the three countries.
The defense ministers reaffirmed their commitment to address such threats.
The Trilateral Meeting was conducted in accordance with the ASEAN’s principles of equality, mutual trust and respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of one another, and good neighborliness.(DND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470575762/defense-ministers-affirm-trilateral-cooperative-arrangement-
The defense chiefs of the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia met in Bali on August 2 to further discuss the current security challenges in the region, especially in the maritime areas of common concern.
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Indonesian Defense Minister General (R) Ryamizard Ryacudu and Malaysian Defense Minister Dato’ Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein reiterated their commitment to the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement signed in Jakarta on 14 July 2016.
The three defense leaders agreed to encourage the operationalization of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Maritime Patrol and Rendering Immediate Assistance; Operating Guidelines on Information and Intelligence Sharing; and Combined Communication Plan.
Recognizing the mutual trust and high responsibility from all parties, the defense chiefs agreed to further explore coordinated activities among the Armed Forces of the three countries, a trilateral database sharing mechanism, and the concept of the Malacca Strait Patrol (MSP) to address maritime security concerns, among others.
During the meeting, the leaders also reiterated their stand against violent extremism and terrorism, and concern over the repeated incidents of armed robbery and kidnapping at sea in the maritime areas of common concern to the three countries.
The defense ministers reaffirmed their commitment to address such threats.
The Trilateral Meeting was conducted in accordance with the ASEAN’s principles of equality, mutual trust and respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of one another, and good neighborliness.(DND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470575762/defense-ministers-affirm-trilateral-cooperative-arrangement-
President Duterte to visit military camp in CDO
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 8): President Duterte to visit military camp in CDO
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to visit Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City on August 9 for a briefing with senior officials of the Army's 4th Infantry Division.
The event is part of the President's visit to military camps in Mindanao.
He will talk to 420 soldiers and civilian personnel in Camp Evangelista where he will be received by officials of the Defense Department and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In a ceremony, the President will also honor soldiers for their gallantry act.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461470662473/president-duterte-to-visit-military-camp-in-cdo
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to visit Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City on August 9 for a briefing with senior officials of the Army's 4th Infantry Division.
The event is part of the President's visit to military camps in Mindanao.
He will talk to 420 soldiers and civilian personnel in Camp Evangelista where he will be received by officials of the Defense Department and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In a ceremony, the President will also honor soldiers for their gallantry act.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461470662473/president-duterte-to-visit-military-camp-in-cdo
Dureza eyes reactivation of Mindanao Working Group for peace, development
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9): Dureza eyes reactivation of Mindanao Working Group for peace, development
The government’s chief peace adviser bared his plan to revitalise the Mindanao Working Group under the Philippines Development Forum (PDF) to complement the peace and development roadmap of the Duterte administration.
“The peace and development roadmap starts from the directive that OPAPP [Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process] should not only be doing peace work—negotiating and signing agreements, engaging those who are on the other side of the table—but it is equally important to improve the lives of the stakeholders,” explained Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza in a briefing on the government’s peace and development roadmap for international partners and donor agencies in Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Ortigas.
The Mindanao Working Group was created together with nine other working groups to form part of the PDF, the primary mechanism of the government for facilitating substantive policy dialogue among stakeholders on the country’s development agenda.
“It did not work before as we envisioned but hopefully we’ll learn from our mistakes in the past as we continue working together again,” the peace adviser added.
In this context, the Mindanao Working Group is envisioned to harmonize development partners’ requirements and approaches in providing assistance to target beneficiaries and communities affected by conflict.
The peace adviser also asked the international organizations to continue their support on government’s peace efforts, particularly on the Bangsamoro peace process that will be moving towards the implementation stage.
“Our foreign partners who helped us in the negotiations stage can continue their support on areas which they perceive they can help a lot. You are all welcome to continue to be our partners—strong partners—in the implementation stage,” he said.
Fast tracking development efforts
The OPAPP secretary also explained to the stakeholders that there is a proposal to amend and expand the mandate of the OPAPP to ensure that development projects in conflict-affected communities are not delayed. “You all know that the Philippine government has very long and stringent procurement policies, and that the OPAPP does not have the mandate to implement development projects.”
“That is why there are proposed amendments that are already with the President that will unclog bottlenecks in development efforts in areas where there is conflict. We want to do this because we cannot make the people wait anymore for the peace dividends that were promised to them,” he continued.
“We will also take a look at the existing mechanisms of procurement to find possible ways of speeding up the process. We would like to hurry in our development work. We cannot make our people become anxious and restless when they do not felt the benefits from the dividends of peace,” he added.
Dureza assured that the support of donor partners in terms of resources will be reciprocated by the Philippine government.
“We want to put our money where the mouth is. We cannot invite our partners if the government is not giving its part to the pot,” he concluded. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470631804/dureza-eyes-reactivation-of-mindanao-working-group-for-peace-development
The government’s chief peace adviser bared his plan to revitalise the Mindanao Working Group under the Philippines Development Forum (PDF) to complement the peace and development roadmap of the Duterte administration.
“The peace and development roadmap starts from the directive that OPAPP [Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process] should not only be doing peace work—negotiating and signing agreements, engaging those who are on the other side of the table—but it is equally important to improve the lives of the stakeholders,” explained Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza in a briefing on the government’s peace and development roadmap for international partners and donor agencies in Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Ortigas.
The Mindanao Working Group was created together with nine other working groups to form part of the PDF, the primary mechanism of the government for facilitating substantive policy dialogue among stakeholders on the country’s development agenda.
“It did not work before as we envisioned but hopefully we’ll learn from our mistakes in the past as we continue working together again,” the peace adviser added.
In this context, the Mindanao Working Group is envisioned to harmonize development partners’ requirements and approaches in providing assistance to target beneficiaries and communities affected by conflict.
The peace adviser also asked the international organizations to continue their support on government’s peace efforts, particularly on the Bangsamoro peace process that will be moving towards the implementation stage.
“Our foreign partners who helped us in the negotiations stage can continue their support on areas which they perceive they can help a lot. You are all welcome to continue to be our partners—strong partners—in the implementation stage,” he said.
Fast tracking development efforts
The OPAPP secretary also explained to the stakeholders that there is a proposal to amend and expand the mandate of the OPAPP to ensure that development projects in conflict-affected communities are not delayed. “You all know that the Philippine government has very long and stringent procurement policies, and that the OPAPP does not have the mandate to implement development projects.”
“That is why there are proposed amendments that are already with the President that will unclog bottlenecks in development efforts in areas where there is conflict. We want to do this because we cannot make the people wait anymore for the peace dividends that were promised to them,” he continued.
“We will also take a look at the existing mechanisms of procurement to find possible ways of speeding up the process. We would like to hurry in our development work. We cannot make our people become anxious and restless when they do not felt the benefits from the dividends of peace,” he added.
Dureza assured that the support of donor partners in terms of resources will be reciprocated by the Philippine government.
“We want to put our money where the mouth is. We cannot invite our partners if the government is not giving its part to the pot,” he concluded. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470631804/dureza-eyes-reactivation-of-mindanao-working-group-for-peace-development
DND Memo on interment of the late Former President Ferdinand Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 9): DND Memo on interment of the late Former President Ferdinand Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani
The Department of National Defense on August 7, 2016, issued a memorandum to General Ricardo Visaya, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, regarding the interment of the late former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
The Memo which was signed by DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, stated as reference “Verbal Order of President Rodrigo Duterte on July 11, 2016.”
The memo reads:
“In compliance to the verbal order of the President to implement his election campaign promise to have the remains of the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos be interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, kindly undertake the necessary planning and preparations to facilitate the coordination of all agencies concerned specially the provisions for ceremonial and security requirements. Coordinate closely with the Marcos family regarding the date of interment and the transport of the late former President’s remains from Ilocos Norte to the LNMB.
The overall OPR of this activity will be the PVAO since the LNMB is under its supervision and administration. PVAO shall designate the focal person for this activity who shall be the overall overseer of the event.
Submit your Implementing Plan to my office as soon as possible.”
The Administrator, PVAO and Governor Imee Marcos, were furnished a copy of the memo.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470627340/dnd-memo-on-interment-of-the-late-former-president-ferdinand-marcos-at-libingan-ng-mga-bayani
The Department of National Defense on August 7, 2016, issued a memorandum to General Ricardo Visaya, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, regarding the interment of the late former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
The Memo which was signed by DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, stated as reference “Verbal Order of President Rodrigo Duterte on July 11, 2016.”
The memo reads:
“In compliance to the verbal order of the President to implement his election campaign promise to have the remains of the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos be interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, kindly undertake the necessary planning and preparations to facilitate the coordination of all agencies concerned specially the provisions for ceremonial and security requirements. Coordinate closely with the Marcos family regarding the date of interment and the transport of the late former President’s remains from Ilocos Norte to the LNMB.
The overall OPR of this activity will be the PVAO since the LNMB is under its supervision and administration. PVAO shall designate the focal person for this activity who shall be the overall overseer of the event.
Submit your Implementing Plan to my office as soon as possible.”
The Administrator, PVAO and Governor Imee Marcos, were furnished a copy of the memo.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141470627340/dnd-memo-on-interment-of-the-late-former-president-ferdinand-marcos-at-libingan-ng-mga-bayani
President Duterte bares plan to convert presidential plane into air ambulance
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): President Duterte bares plan to convert presidential plane into air ambulance
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=911775
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday announced his plan to
convert the presidential plane into an air ambulance, saying that he’s already
“comfortable” with commercial flights.
"I have also requested (National Defense) Secretary
(Delfin) Lorenzana to make the arrangement because I am giving up the
presidential plane, convert it into an air ambulance," he told the 500
soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division at Camp Lukban
The President also asked the Defense chief to study
converting some Fokker planes of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
"You'll have about so many planes for the Armed Forces
of the Philippines
The Chief Executive said it’s up to the next President to
acquire a presidential plane after his term.
During his 15-minute speech, he also bared his plan to use a
small private plane for his travels.
"Sometimes I can use a jet plane, a small one kung may
pang-gasolina. I just pay the gasoline, air, pati operational costs," he
said.
The President reiterated his campaign promise on converting
presidential aircraft after detailing his plans for the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center
“Anything that can help you, we will give it to you,” he
added.
The Air Force's 250th Presidential Airlift Wing has been
used for the air mobility of the President as well as the first family and
visiting dignitaries.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=911775
Dureza to reactivate Mindanao Working Group for peace, development
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Dureza to reactivate Mindanao Working Group for peace, development
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911567
The government’s chief peace adviser bared his plan to
revitalise the Mindanao Working Group under the Philippines Development Forum
(PDF) to complement the peace and development roadmap of the Duterte
administration.
“The peace and development roadmap starts from the directive
that OPAPP [Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process] should not
only be doing peace work—negotiating and signing agreements, engaging those who
are on the other side of the table—but it is equally important to improve the
lives of the stakeholders,” said Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
Jesus G. Dureza in a briefing on the government’s peace and development roadmap
for international partners and donor agencies in Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in
Ortigas.
The Mindanao Working Group was created together with nine
other working groups to form part of the PDF, the primary mechanism of the
government for facilitating substantive policy dialogue among stakeholders on
the country’s development agenda.
“It did not work before as we envisioned but hopefully we’ll
learn from our mistakes in the past as we continue working together again,” the
peace adviser added.
In this context, the Mindanao Working Group is envisioned to
harmonize development partners’ requirements and approaches in providing
assistance to target beneficiaries and communities affected by conflict.
The peace adviser also asked the international organizations
to continue their support on government’s peace efforts, particularly on the
Bangsamoro peace process that will be moving towards the implementation stage.
“Our foreign partners who helped us in the negotiations
stage can continue their support on areas which they perceive they can help a
lot. You are all welcome to continue to be our partners—strong partners—in the
implementation stage,” he said.
Fast tracking development efforts
The OPAPP secretary also explained to the stakeholders that
there is a proposal to amend and expand the mandate of the OPAPP to ensure that
development projects in conflict-affected communities are not delayed. “You all
know that the Philippine government has very long and stringent procurement
policies, and that the OPAPP does not have the mandate to implement development
projects.”
“That is why there are proposed amendments that are already
with the President that will unclog bottlenecks in development efforts in areas
where there is conflict. We want to do this because we cannot make the people
wait anymore for the peace dividends that were promised to them,” he continued.
“We will also take a look at the existing mechanisms of
procurement to find possible ways of speeding up the process. We would like to
hurry in our development work. We cannot make our people become anxious and
restless when they do not felt the benefits from the dividends of peace,” he
added.
Dureza assured that the support of donor partners in terms
of resources will be reciprocated by the Philippine government.
“We want to put our money where the mouth is. We cannot
invite our partners if the government is not giving its part to the pot,” he
concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911567
President Duterte's peace roadmap gets strong support from international community
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): President Duterte's peace roadmap gets strong support from international community
Warwick
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911607
International peace and development partners have expressed
strong support and optimism on the peace and development roadmap of President
Rodrigo R. Duterte, even applauding his administration's remarkable performance
in resolving peace and security issues during his first month in office.
“We are very impressed with the work that OPAPP (Office of
the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process) has done in just a short time,”
World Bank Country Director Mara Warwick said on behalf of the other
international organizations and institutions present during the OPAPP’s
briefing on the government’s peace agenda recently held in Edsa Shangri-la
Hotel.
“It is very welcome to the international community the
aspirations of the Duterte administration to resolve the issues in Mindanao and the other areas of the country and to the
level of priority that he has given on these issues, even in the first month of
his administration,” he added.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Ola Almgren, meanwhile,
noted that the “work that is already on the way since the 30th of June
constitutes a very promising reboot and continuation of ongoing efforts to
resolve the conflicts”.
“Going here, I have a lot of questions, especially with
regards to the many mechanisms already in place, wherein international agencies
play active roles. But those questions have been answered.”
“We appreciate the openness of President Duterte, as said in
his SONA (State of the Nation Address), to continue working with international
partners,” Almgren said. “I look forward to a continuing engagement with the
people of the Philippines
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza,
for his part, recognized the previous efforts of the international partners in
the peace process and asked them to continue supporting the government’s peace
efforts.
“That is why I am very grateful to your initial enthusiasm
and I hope we can sustain this. We look forward to our continued partnership,
especially those who we have not engaged very much in the past. We want you
back as strong partners for peace,” he added.
Aside from the United Nations and the World Bank, other
international agencies and institutions represented during the meeting were
Agencia Española De Cooperacion Internacional Para El Desarollo (AECID); Center
for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD); Department of Foreign Affairs and
Trade-Australia (DFAT-AUS); Deutsche Gesellschaft Für Internationale
Zusammenarbeit Gmbh (GIZ); European Union (EU); French Development Agency
(FDA); Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); International Alert (IA);
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC); The Asia Foundation (TAF);
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); International Organization for
Migration (IOM); Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations;
United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF); United Nations
Population Fund (UNFPA); United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR);
United Nations Women (UN WOMEN); World Food Programme (WFP); and United States
Agency for International Development (USAID).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911607
(Updated) Former Pres. Ramos asserts desire to 'rekindle' PHL-China ties
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): (Updated) Former Pres. Ramos asserts desire to 'rekindle' PHL-China ties
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911620
With hopes to "rekindle" ties between the Philippines and China ,
former President Fidel V. Ramos is slated to fly to Hong Kong Monday at 2:35
p.m. to begin his task as special Philippine envoy to China
Ramos said that he will not be going to Hong
Kong to negotiate with Chinese officials on the maritime
territorial dispute but rather engage in friendly relations and "play
golf" with them.
"Please do not make any mistake. I am not going there
to negotiate. That belongs to the officials," Ramos told media in a press
conference at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 before
his departure.
Ramos said that he had no authority to negotiate but
expected that the formal phase of bilateral talks will take place "in the
near future" between Philippine and Chinese officials.
The former President also stressed that President Rodrigo
Duterte did not give him any formal instructions.
"He (Duterte) is busy giving instructions to everybody
so he had a short time for us but considers it very important."
"What he really said (to me) was to 'please renew our
friendship with your friends from China
Ramos, who finished his presidential term in 1996, said that
he was merely happy to help Pres. Duterte who appointed him as special envoy.
"I am just the icebreaker to warm up again, our good,
friendly, neighborly relations with China
Ramos meanwhile said that he will be bringing books as gifts
to his Chinese friends who he did not name.
Ramos will be accompanied by former First Lady Amelita
"Ming" Ramos, former Interior and Local Government Secretary Rafael
Alunan III, veteran journalist Jose Santiago "Chito" Sta. Romana and
Ramos' grandson, Sam Jones, who serves as trustee of the Ramos Peace and
Development Foundation.
The 88-year-old former president said that despite having a
pacemaker attached since October 2015, he is still in good health and can still
play a full round of golf.
He will stay in Hong Kong
for five days and will be flying via Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight PR 306.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=911620
AFP: Marcos qualified for 'Libingan ng mga Bayani' burial
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): AFP: Marcos qualified for 'Libingan ng mga Bayani' burial
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Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos is more than qualified
to be buried at the 103-hectare Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB) based on the
requirements in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) regulations on who
should be interred at the country's heroes' burial grounds in Taguig City,
Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio
Andolong, in a press briefing Monday, stressed.
"There are certain criteria that has to be satisfied
and I believed based on these regulations, he (Marcos) is qualified," he
added.
Under the AFP Regulation, remains of the following deceased
persons are qualified, and therefore authorized, to be interred at the LNMB:
Medal of Valor Awardees; Presidents or Commander-in-Chief, AFP; Secretaries of
National Defense; AFP Chiefs of Staff; and, Generals/Flag Officers of the AFP.
Marcos led the Philippines
He is also a recognized World War II veteran.
He was toppled during the People Power Revolution in 1986
and fled to Honolulu , Hawaii
Andolong said the AFP is the agency tasked with all
activities pertaining to the internment and this includes protocol and the
honor guard.
"From what I understand, there has already been works
(landscaping and cleaning have been) started and as far as I know, the area is
already being prepared," he added.
Andolong also said no exact burial date has been set yet
although former Sen. Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos earlier said that
the burial date for his father is scheduled on September 18 at the LNMB's
President Section.
He also declined to comment on expressed opposition to the
burial, adding that the DND is only concerned with regulations.
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