Posted to DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service News Website (Jun 23): ALL OUT OFFENSIVE | AFP, ASG Encounters on-going in Basilan
CAMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – Troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan continue to pound on the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) as focused military operations against the bandits are intensified in the province of Basilan.
An armed confrontation ensued between military troops and the Abu Sayyaf bandits following intensified operations launched in Barangay Dugaa, Tuburan, Basilan today.
Initial reports received from ground units disclosed that the government side suffered one (1) killed and three (3) wounded in action, while casualties on the Abu Sayyafs are yet to be determined.
As of this press time, the firefight is ongoing. Troops of the 3rd Air Division, Philippine Air Force were directed to provide air ambulance for casualty evacuation, while naval troops will conduct blockage in Tuburan, Basilan.
All-out military offensives are ongoing to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group responsible for the series of atrocities in the province of Basilan.
ASABILLO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/all-out-offensive-afp-asg-encounters-on-going-in-basilan/
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
MILF: Moro organizations meet to address community issues
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (Aug 24): Moro organizations meet to address community issues
Moro community leaders, peace advocates and members of peoples organizations held their regular meeting on August 21 at the Moro Asta Madrasa in Tulungatung, Zamboanga City inorder to stand up to the organizational challenges they face in their communities.
Attended by professionals, religious sector, fisher folks and laymen from nearby Moro communities, the meeting centered on organizational assessment, member-performance evaluation and operational planning of activities on peace advocacy and capacity-enhancement of members in order for them to cope with the growing social challenges in their respective communities.
Three personalities from different local non-government organizations (NGOs) and peace advocates team were invited to discuss relevant issues on Moro struggle, Bangsamoro signed agreements as well as the principles and practices on Islamic leadership and management.
Mr. Maksu Magang, spokesperson of Southern Islamic Action for Prosperity and Harmony Network (SIAPAHAN), gave a summarized narrative of Moro history and their legitimate quest for the Right to Self-Determination (RSD).
Magang stressed that through active engagement and peace advocacy, “we can openly relate to the people on the worthiness of Moro history and how they defended their rights and identity not only in Mindanao but also in Luzon and Visayas.”
Comprehensive updates on the peace process between Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and other Moro Fronts was given by Bother Phix from the United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD). He categorically emphasized the prospective Bangsamoro enabling law and the concept of inclusivity and convergence of other Moro fronts and other stakeholders in the implementing phase.
Mr. Tirso Tahir from Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) talked on the principles and practices on Islamic Leadership and Management in consonance with their current task and entrusted obligations. He encouraged the Moro community leaders to be always participative in peace-building effort and responsive in dispensing their obligations accordingly. He also excerpted a verse from Noble Qur’an which reads as:
“And We made them leaders guiding men by Our command and We sent inspiration to do good deeds, to establish regular prayers, and to practice regular charity; and they constantly served Us only” (Surat Al-'Anbyā', Ayat 73)
At the end of the meeting, the participants were motivated and enlightened on related issues and intensify their advocacy on peace-building endeavor in their respective communities.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/73-westhern-mindanao/861-moro-organizations-meet-to-address-community-issues
Moro community leaders, peace advocates and members of peoples organizations held their regular meeting on August 21 at the Moro Asta Madrasa in Tulungatung, Zamboanga City inorder to stand up to the organizational challenges they face in their communities.
Three personalities from different local non-government organizations (NGOs) and peace advocates team were invited to discuss relevant issues on Moro struggle, Bangsamoro signed agreements as well as the principles and practices on Islamic leadership and management.
Mr. Maksu Magang, spokesperson of Southern Islamic Action for Prosperity and Harmony Network (SIAPAHAN), gave a summarized narrative of Moro history and their legitimate quest for the Right to Self-Determination (RSD).
Magang stressed that through active engagement and peace advocacy, “we can openly relate to the people on the worthiness of Moro history and how they defended their rights and identity not only in Mindanao but also in Luzon and Visayas.”
Comprehensive updates on the peace process between Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and other Moro Fronts was given by Bother Phix from the United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD). He categorically emphasized the prospective Bangsamoro enabling law and the concept of inclusivity and convergence of other Moro fronts and other stakeholders in the implementing phase.
Mr. Tirso Tahir from Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) talked on the principles and practices on Islamic Leadership and Management in consonance with their current task and entrusted obligations. He encouraged the Moro community leaders to be always participative in peace-building effort and responsive in dispensing their obligations accordingly. He also excerpted a verse from Noble Qur’an which reads as:
“And We made them leaders guiding men by Our command and We sent inspiration to do good deeds, to establish regular prayers, and to practice regular charity; and they constantly served Us only” (Surat Al-'Anbyā', Ayat 73)
At the end of the meeting, the participants were motivated and enlightened on related issues and intensify their advocacy on peace-building endeavor in their respective communities.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/73-westhern-mindanao/861-moro-organizations-meet-to-address-community-issues
NDF: On San Luis, Agusan del Sur defensive action
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Aug 23): On San Luis, Agusan del Sur defensive action
Press release | OSLO, Norway – The panel-to-panel meeting between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) commenced in the morning of August 23.
Today, the panels finished the discussion on the affirmation of previous signed agreements, reconstitution of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) list and acceleration of the peace negotiations.
This meeting at the Reidar Andersen, Birger Ruud and Thorleif Haug Halls of the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel came after the representatives of both panels had agreed and approved the program of the five-day formal peace talks the previous day.
On the first item of the agenda, the two panels agreed to reaffirm all previously signed agreements since The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992 and resolved to conduct formal talks and consultations in accordance with said agreements.
Aside from The Hague Joint Declaration, both parties reaffirmed all the previous bilateral and binding agreements made in the peace negotiations that include the JASIG of 1995; Joint Agreement on the Formation, Sequence and Operationalization of the Reciprocal Working Committees of the GPH and NDFP Negotiating Panels of 1995; and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) of 1998, the first of four items of the substantive agenda in the peace negotiations that have been agreed upon by both sides.
The NDFP panel presented the reconstituted list of holders of the NDFP document of identification (DI) that gives them protection by the JASIG, which was acknowledged by the GPH panel. The GPH agreed to issue a letter of acknowledgment on the receipt of the NDFP list.
The JASIG is meant to provide the conditions conducive to free discussion and movement of NDFP personnel involved in the peace negotiations and to avert any incident that may jeopardize the peace negotiations. Without the JASIG, peace negotiations would not be possible.
Both parties agreed to accelerate the peace process and set the timeline for the completion of the three remaining items in the substantive agenda namely, social and economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms and end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
The two sides agreed that the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms (RWC-SER) of the GPH and NDFP shall meet in September. The RWC-SER shall tackle and strive to reach an agreement on genuine land reform, national industrialization, workers’ rights and welfare, social welfare, education and culture. They would also strive to finish within six months from September the tentative Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms to be submitted for approval by both panels.
The last session of the day consisted of the simultaneous meetings of the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms and the two Reciprocal Working Groups on Political and Constitutional Reforms and End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces. They discussed the agenda of their next meetings, the mechanics and schedule of their future work.
NDFP Media Group
Reference:
Dan Borjal
email: dfborjal@gmail.com
twitter: https://twitter.com/dfborjal
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dborjal
viber: +31643108419
http://www.ndfp.org/grp-ndfp-panels-reaffirm-previous-agreements/
Press release | OSLO, Norway – The panel-to-panel meeting between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) commenced in the morning of August 23.
Today, the panels finished the discussion on the affirmation of previous signed agreements, reconstitution of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) list and acceleration of the peace negotiations.
This meeting at the Reidar Andersen, Birger Ruud and Thorleif Haug Halls of the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel came after the representatives of both panels had agreed and approved the program of the five-day formal peace talks the previous day.
Photo NDFP
On the first item of the agenda, the two panels agreed to reaffirm all previously signed agreements since The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992 and resolved to conduct formal talks and consultations in accordance with said agreements.
Aside from The Hague Joint Declaration, both parties reaffirmed all the previous bilateral and binding agreements made in the peace negotiations that include the JASIG of 1995; Joint Agreement on the Formation, Sequence and Operationalization of the Reciprocal Working Committees of the GPH and NDFP Negotiating Panels of 1995; and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) of 1998, the first of four items of the substantive agenda in the peace negotiations that have been agreed upon by both sides.
Photo NDFP
The NDFP panel presented the reconstituted list of holders of the NDFP document of identification (DI) that gives them protection by the JASIG, which was acknowledged by the GPH panel. The GPH agreed to issue a letter of acknowledgment on the receipt of the NDFP list.
The JASIG is meant to provide the conditions conducive to free discussion and movement of NDFP personnel involved in the peace negotiations and to avert any incident that may jeopardize the peace negotiations. Without the JASIG, peace negotiations would not be possible.
Both parties agreed to accelerate the peace process and set the timeline for the completion of the three remaining items in the substantive agenda namely, social and economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms and end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
Photo NDFP
The two sides agreed that the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms (RWC-SER) of the GPH and NDFP shall meet in September. The RWC-SER shall tackle and strive to reach an agreement on genuine land reform, national industrialization, workers’ rights and welfare, social welfare, education and culture. They would also strive to finish within six months from September the tentative Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms to be submitted for approval by both panels.
The last session of the day consisted of the simultaneous meetings of the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms and the two Reciprocal Working Groups on Political and Constitutional Reforms and End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces. They discussed the agenda of their next meetings, the mechanics and schedule of their future work.
NDFP Media Group
Reference:
Dan Borjal
email: dfborjal@gmail.com
twitter: https://twitter.com/dfborjal
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dborjal
viber: +31643108419
http://www.ndfp.org/grp-ndfp-panels-reaffirm-previous-agreements/
CPP/NPA: On San Luis, Agusan del Sur defensive action
New People's Army propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Aug 23): On San Luis, Agusan del Sur defensive action
August 23, 2016
Four Red fighters under the NPA – Western Agusan del Norte-Agusan del Sur Subregional Command heroically fought and sacrificed in a defensive action in a raid by 26th IB troops to an NPA platoon conducting classroom activity last August 20 at around 8:30 in the morning in a forested area of Sitio Kihinggay, Brgy.San Pedro, San Luis, Agusan del Sur. One Red fighter was also wounded during the firefight. We offer our highest salute to Comrades Winston “Ka Jerom” Mondejar, Henry “Ka James” Mansuconan, Jomar “Ka Alay” Tawide and Abel “Ka Gabriel” Oliver.
Even though fatally shot, Ka Gabriel, before his last breath, was able to heroically switch the command-detonated explosive chanced upon the flanked troops. According to civilian witnesses, more than ten casualties were suffered by 26th IB troopers.
Choppers intermittently retrieved their casualties and delivered fresh troops. Troops from the ground opened fire thrice at 6:00 am and 3:00 p.m. on August 21 and at 3:00 p.m. on August 22.
Regarding the cadavers of the four comrade martyrs, respective families have seen indications of desecration of the bodies before they were sent to the morgue. Seized by enemy troops were three AK 47 and two M16 rifles including ammunitions, guerilla camp equipment and personal effects.
The AFP could not be trusted to strictly abide their commander-in-chief’s ceasefire order which commenced August 21. It can be recalled that during President Duterte’s first unilateral ceasefire declaration last July 25-30, troops of the 4th ID continue to rolling out the guerilla fronts of NCMR. One of these operations resulted in the strafing of a group of Lumads attending a wedding in San Fernando, Bukidnon which forced the evacuation of the entire community. On another, intelligence and psychological operations of the 26th IB effected the the evacuation of the Lumads in Zillovia, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur during the same timespan.
Up to this date, 26th IB troops remain in Kihinggay and Oplan Bayanihan’s intelligence and psychological operations were implemented in 26 barrios scattered throughout the region.
Signed
Ka Allan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA-NCMROC
http://www.cpp.ph/san-luis-agusan-del-sur-defensive-action/
August 23, 2016
Four Red fighters under the NPA – Western Agusan del Norte-Agusan del Sur Subregional Command heroically fought and sacrificed in a defensive action in a raid by 26th IB troops to an NPA platoon conducting classroom activity last August 20 at around 8:30 in the morning in a forested area of Sitio Kihinggay, Brgy.San Pedro, San Luis, Agusan del Sur. One Red fighter was also wounded during the firefight. We offer our highest salute to Comrades Winston “Ka Jerom” Mondejar, Henry “Ka James” Mansuconan, Jomar “Ka Alay” Tawide and Abel “Ka Gabriel” Oliver.
Even though fatally shot, Ka Gabriel, before his last breath, was able to heroically switch the command-detonated explosive chanced upon the flanked troops. According to civilian witnesses, more than ten casualties were suffered by 26th IB troopers.
Choppers intermittently retrieved their casualties and delivered fresh troops. Troops from the ground opened fire thrice at 6:00 am and 3:00 p.m. on August 21 and at 3:00 p.m. on August 22.
Regarding the cadavers of the four comrade martyrs, respective families have seen indications of desecration of the bodies before they were sent to the morgue. Seized by enemy troops were three AK 47 and two M16 rifles including ammunitions, guerilla camp equipment and personal effects.
The AFP could not be trusted to strictly abide their commander-in-chief’s ceasefire order which commenced August 21. It can be recalled that during President Duterte’s first unilateral ceasefire declaration last July 25-30, troops of the 4th ID continue to rolling out the guerilla fronts of NCMR. One of these operations resulted in the strafing of a group of Lumads attending a wedding in San Fernando, Bukidnon which forced the evacuation of the entire community. On another, intelligence and psychological operations of the 26th IB effected the the evacuation of the Lumads in Zillovia, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur during the same timespan.
Up to this date, 26th IB troops remain in Kihinggay and Oplan Bayanihan’s intelligence and psychological operations were implemented in 26 barrios scattered throughout the region.
Signed
Ka Allan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA-NCMROC
http://www.cpp.ph/san-luis-agusan-del-sur-defensive-action/
Authorities hold 8 terrorists in Mindanao
From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 23): Authorities hold 8 terrorists in Mindanao
Security forces are holding 8 members of a jihadist group – including three women – tagged as behind the series of terrorism in southernPhilippines
Officials said army soldiers and policemen intercepted the group while transporting explosives in a van in thevillage of Nanagun
Officials said those arrested also gave out different names to mislead authorities, but army and police interrogators later found out that all those intercepted are members and relatives of Abdullah Maute, who founded the Dawlah Islamiya or “Islamic State” in southernPhilippines
He said the daring interception and arrest of the jihadists was largely due to the intelligence provided by civilians in the province.
Just recently, security forces killed 3 members of another jihadist group called Ansar Al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) in Daliao village in nearby Sarangani’s Maasim town and troops recovered improvised explosives from the slain militants. Both the AKP and Maute group pledged allegiance with the Islamic State of Iraq andSyria
Security forces are holding 8 members of a jihadist group – including three women – tagged as behind the series of terrorism in southern
Officials said army soldiers and policemen intercepted the group while transporting explosives in a van in the
Troops seized from the jihadists two pipe bombs, two
fragmentation grenades, one improvised explosive assembled from an 81mm mortar,
two .45-caliber pistols and electronic triggering devices.
Officials said those arrested also gave out different names to mislead authorities, but army and police interrogators later found out that all those intercepted are members and relatives of Abdullah Maute, who founded the Dawlah Islamiya or “Islamic State” in southern
Interrogation reports revealed the gang was plotting to bomb
civilian targets in the volatile region, according to army Major Filemon Tan, a
spokesman for the Western Mindanao Command.
He said the daring interception and arrest of the jihadists was largely due to the intelligence provided by civilians in the province.
“The fast reaction of troops and the information of concerned
citizens was the key for thwarting a terror attack intended to kill innocent
people in populated target areas. IEDs do not select its victims, children,
Christians or Muslims, young and old, lahat papatayin niyan and in a wide scale
kaya napakalaking bagay na hindi natuloy ito dahil na din sa cooperation ng
taong-bayan at responde ng sundalo at pulis,” Tan said.
Just recently, security forces killed 3 members of another jihadist group called Ansar Al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) in Daliao village in nearby Sarangani’s Maasim town and troops recovered improvised explosives from the slain militants. Both the AKP and Maute group pledged allegiance with the Islamic State of Iraq and
Terror bomb plot foiled; 8 arrested in Lanao del Sur
From Tempo (Aug 24): Terror bomb plot foiled; 8 arrested in Lanao del Sur
The military yesterday said that a possible terror attack on a populated area has been foiled following the arrest of eight people, including five suspected members of the local terrorist group Maute terror group in Lanao del Sur on Monday afternoon.
The military yesterday said that a possible terror attack on a populated area has been foiled following the arrest of eight people, including five suspected members of the local terrorist group Maute terror group in Lanao del Sur on Monday afternoon.
Army Major Filemon I. Tan, Jr., spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WesMinCom), based in Zamboanga City, identified the alleged terrorists as Hashim Balawag Maute, alias “Apple” or “Jehad”; Abdul Jabbar Tominaman Macabading, Jamil Batoa Amerul, Muhammad Sianodin Mulok, and Omar Khalil.
Tan said the five are wanted by police and military authorities for their involvement in various terrorist activities in Lanao del Sur.
Tan said three others, all women and accomplices of the five men, were identified as Hafidah Romato Maute and Norhanna Balawag Maute, daughters of Engr. Cayamora and Ominta Maute, and Nasifa Pundug, the alleged wife of a local terrorist leader based in Kapai, Lanao del Sur.
Tan said the suspects were caught at about 5:10 p.m. Monday.
Acting upon intelligence reports on the movement of the Local Terrorist Group (LTG), troops of the Army’s 51st Infantry Battalion and1st Infantry Division, intercepted a van boarded by Balawag in Barangay Nanagun, Lumbayanague, Lanao del Sur.
Tan said troops and local police also discovered several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and war materials inside the van which would be used in a heavily populated area.
“The male passengers falsely gave their identities but further investigation revealed that their true names were Hashim Balawag Maute of the terrorist Maute group brothers,” Tan said.
“The other passengers Abdul Jabbar Tominaman Macabading, Jamil Batoa Amerul, Muhammad Sianodin Mulok and Omar Khalil were later identified as Local Terror Group involved in various terrorist activities in Lanao del Sur.”
The military and police also seized from the suspects two hand grenades and two Caliber .45 pistol with five rounds of live ammunition, an 81mm Mortar ammunition rigged as an Improvised Explosive, two pipe bombs IED with components, several IED components and several electronic devices as triggering devices.
The suspects and recovered materials were turned over to the Lumbayanague Municipal Police Station for the filing of appropriate charges.
http://tempo.com.ph/2016/08/24/terror-bomb-plot-foiled-8-arrested-in-lanao-del-sur/
Tan said the five are wanted by police and military authorities for their involvement in various terrorist activities in Lanao del Sur.
Tan said three others, all women and accomplices of the five men, were identified as Hafidah Romato Maute and Norhanna Balawag Maute, daughters of Engr. Cayamora and Ominta Maute, and Nasifa Pundug, the alleged wife of a local terrorist leader based in Kapai, Lanao del Sur.
Tan said the suspects were caught at about 5:10 p.m. Monday.
Acting upon intelligence reports on the movement of the Local Terrorist Group (LTG), troops of the Army’s 51st Infantry Battalion and1st Infantry Division, intercepted a van boarded by Balawag in Barangay Nanagun, Lumbayanague, Lanao del Sur.
Tan said troops and local police also discovered several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and war materials inside the van which would be used in a heavily populated area.
“The male passengers falsely gave their identities but further investigation revealed that their true names were Hashim Balawag Maute of the terrorist Maute group brothers,” Tan said.
“The other passengers Abdul Jabbar Tominaman Macabading, Jamil Batoa Amerul, Muhammad Sianodin Mulok and Omar Khalil were later identified as Local Terror Group involved in various terrorist activities in Lanao del Sur.”
The military and police also seized from the suspects two hand grenades and two Caliber .45 pistol with five rounds of live ammunition, an 81mm Mortar ammunition rigged as an Improvised Explosive, two pipe bombs IED with components, several IED components and several electronic devices as triggering devices.
The suspects and recovered materials were turned over to the Lumbayanague Municipal Police Station for the filing of appropriate charges.
http://tempo.com.ph/2016/08/24/terror-bomb-plot-foiled-8-arrested-in-lanao-del-sur/
PH Marines gets new commander
From the Manila Times (Aug 23): PH Marines gets new commander
A MILITARY officer described as a “veteran” of the all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2000 has been designated as the new commander of the battle-tested Philippine Marines.
Maj. Gen. Andre Costales Jr. replaces Maj. Gen. Remigio Valdez, who will retire from the service on Thursday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
Costales was the deputy of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 when former President Joseph Estrada, now mayor of Manila, declared a total war against the MILF, according to Capt. Ryan Lacuesta, Marines spokesman.
He disclosed that Costales and his men were deployed in Matanog, Maguindanao, during the offensive and was among those who pounded the separatists’ main camp, which was later liberated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from MILF control.
It was in this feat, that Costales got his Gold Cross medal that recognizes gallantry in action, Lacuesta said.
He also commanded the forces in the Kalayaan Island Group in the disputed Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) as commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade.
But besides being a “warrior” which has been the mark of every member of the corps, Lacuesta said the new Marine commander is known as an educator because of his various assignments that dealt with education, among others as assistant superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), superintendent of the Marine Corps Training Center and as the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training.
“He is really an educator. The branding of being a warrior has been part of being a member of the Marines. It was highlighted when he was assigned to Central Mindanao,” Lacuesta said of Costales.
http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-marines-gets-new-commmander/281639/
A MILITARY officer described as a “veteran” of the all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2000 has been designated as the new commander of the battle-tested Philippine Marines.
Maj. Gen. Andre Costales Jr. replaces Maj. Gen. Remigio Valdez, who will retire from the service on Thursday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
Costales was the deputy of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 when former President Joseph Estrada, now mayor of Manila, declared a total war against the MILF, according to Capt. Ryan Lacuesta, Marines spokesman.
He disclosed that Costales and his men were deployed in Matanog, Maguindanao, during the offensive and was among those who pounded the separatists’ main camp, which was later liberated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from MILF control.
It was in this feat, that Costales got his Gold Cross medal that recognizes gallantry in action, Lacuesta said.
He also commanded the forces in the Kalayaan Island Group in the disputed Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) as commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade.
But besides being a “warrior” which has been the mark of every member of the corps, Lacuesta said the new Marine commander is known as an educator because of his various assignments that dealt with education, among others as assistant superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), superintendent of the Marine Corps Training Center and as the AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training.
“He is really an educator. The branding of being a warrior has been part of being a member of the Marines. It was highlighted when he was assigned to Central Mindanao,” Lacuesta said of Costales.
http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-marines-gets-new-commmander/281639/
Philippine Forces Have Abu Sayyaf Cornered: Defense Minister
From the Jakarta Globe (Aug 23): Philippine Forces Have Abu Sayyaf Cornered: Defense Minister
Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said he is working intensely with his Philippine counterpart to secure the release of Indonesian citizens taken hostage by the Abu Sayyaf armed group in Southern Philippines.
"I am constantly in contact with the Philippine Defense Minister," Ryamizard told the press at the National Monument in Jakarta, Tuesday (23/08).
According to Ryamizard, a string of massive Philippine military operations have taken down many important members of the Abu Sayyaf terror group.
http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/news/philippine-forces-abu-sayyaf-cornered-defense-minister/
Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said he is working intensely with his Philippine counterpart to secure the release of Indonesian citizens taken hostage by the Abu Sayyaf armed group in Southern Philippines.
"I am constantly in contact with the Philippine Defense Minister," Ryamizard told the press at the National Monument in Jakarta, Tuesday (23/08).
According to Ryamizard, a string of massive Philippine military operations have taken down many important members of the Abu Sayyaf terror group.
"They found Abu Sayyaf's headquarters in Basilan. There were underground rooms there, but these were cleared. Basilan is clear now, only their base in Sulu remains," the minister said.
"Do the math, the [Abu Sayyaf] group had at most 300 men, and now over 100 have been killed. Not to mention those that have been wounded. The Philippine forces have made quite an inroad," Ryamizard said.
The government of the Philippines has so far deployed more than 10,000 military personnel to attack the Abu Sayyaf group, according to the minister. "It hasn't been cheap, definitely, but they've managed to wipe out nearly half of Abu Sayyaf's forces," he said.
Asked if a land operation planned by the Indonesian Military (TNI) to release the hostages will go ahead, Ryamizard said it is very unlikely.
"Not yet. The Philippine army already has 10,000 soldiers in Southern Philippines, that's a whole division," Ryamizard said.
"We don't want to risk ourselves when there's no need to. We will do it only if the Philippine army asks us to help them," the defense minister said.
"Do the math, the [Abu Sayyaf] group had at most 300 men, and now over 100 have been killed. Not to mention those that have been wounded. The Philippine forces have made quite an inroad," Ryamizard said.
The government of the Philippines has so far deployed more than 10,000 military personnel to attack the Abu Sayyaf group, according to the minister. "It hasn't been cheap, definitely, but they've managed to wipe out nearly half of Abu Sayyaf's forces," he said.
Asked if a land operation planned by the Indonesian Military (TNI) to release the hostages will go ahead, Ryamizard said it is very unlikely.
"Not yet. The Philippine army already has 10,000 soldiers in Southern Philippines, that's a whole division," Ryamizard said.
"We don't want to risk ourselves when there's no need to. We will do it only if the Philippine army asks us to help them," the defense minister said.
http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/news/philippine-forces-abu-sayyaf-cornered-defense-minister/
‘Terrorists’ intercepted in Lanao
From the Manila Times (Aug 23): ‘Terrorists’ intercepted in Lanao
Security forces are holding eight members and relatives of a jihadist group leader–Abdullah Maute–tagged as behind a series of terrorist attacks in southern Mindanao.
Philippine Army soldiers and policemen intercepted the group that included three women while it was transporting explosives onboard a van in Barangay Nanagun in Lumbayanague town, Lanao del Sur.
Troops seized from the jihadists two pipe bombs, two fragmentation grenades, one improvised explosive device assembled from an 81mm mortar, two .45-caliber pistols and electronic triggering devices.
Officials said those arrested also gave out different names to mislead authorities but Army and police interrogators later found out that they are members and relatives of Maute, who founded the Dawlah Islamiya or Islamic State in southern Philippines.
http://www.manilatimes.net/terrorists-intercepted-in-lanao/281628/
Security forces are holding eight members and relatives of a jihadist group leader–Abdullah Maute–tagged as behind a series of terrorist attacks in southern Mindanao.
Philippine Army soldiers and policemen intercepted the group that included three women while it was transporting explosives onboard a van in Barangay Nanagun in Lumbayanague town, Lanao del Sur.
Troops seized from the jihadists two pipe bombs, two fragmentation grenades, one improvised explosive device assembled from an 81mm mortar, two .45-caliber pistols and electronic triggering devices.
Officials said those arrested also gave out different names to mislead authorities but Army and police interrogators later found out that they are members and relatives of Maute, who founded the Dawlah Islamiya or Islamic State in southern Philippines.
http://www.manilatimes.net/terrorists-intercepted-in-lanao/281628/
Court hears habeas petition of suspected NPA rebel
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 23): Court hears habeas petition of suspected NPA rebel
A HEARING on the petition for writ of habeas corpus filed in behalf of Amy Pond aka suspected New People’s Army (NPA) member Adelfa Toledo was heard this morning at the sala of acting presiding Judge Marivic Trabajo-Darat of the Cebu City Regional Trial Court Branch 17.
Lawyer Ian Manticajon, legal counsel of Pond, insisted that she is not the same pond as Toledo. He said the ID cards allegedly recovered from her with the name “Adelfa Toledo” are fake.
Lawyer Inocencio dela Cerna who represented the Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG), said the writ of habeas corpus is not the proper legal remedy to question Pond’s detention since there was basis for the arrest warrant and it was properly served to her.
The hearing continues at 1:30 pm Tuesday.
http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/102537/court-hears-habeas-petition-of-suspected-npa-rebel
A HEARING on the petition for writ of habeas corpus filed in behalf of Amy Pond aka suspected New People’s Army (NPA) member Adelfa Toledo was heard this morning at the sala of acting presiding Judge Marivic Trabajo-Darat of the Cebu City Regional Trial Court Branch 17.
Lawyer Ian Manticajon, legal counsel of Pond, insisted that she is not the same pond as Toledo. He said the ID cards allegedly recovered from her with the name “Adelfa Toledo” are fake.
Lawyer Inocencio dela Cerna who represented the Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG), said the writ of habeas corpus is not the proper legal remedy to question Pond’s detention since there was basis for the arrest warrant and it was properly served to her.
The hearing continues at 1:30 pm Tuesday.
http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/102537/court-hears-habeas-petition-of-suspected-npa-rebel
Kalinga woman tribal leader unsafe in her own land
From InterAksyon (Aug 24): Kalinga woman tribal leader unsafe in her own land
Beatrice Belen at home. (photo courtesy of Innabuyog-Gabriela)
On August 11, Beatrice Belen, vice chairperson of Innabuyog, the Cordillera alliance of indigenous women’s organizations, was in Baguio joining activities of her group, when she received a phone call from her family.
The message was unnerving -- troops of the 501st infantry Brigade, who had been encamped in her Kalinga village since October last year, were summoning her and other members of the Uma tribe.
Slumped in a corner of the women’s center here after receiving the call, Belen, who has been leading the fight to protect her tribe’s ancestral domain, said in their culture, the ili or village is always safe haven. This was so even during the height of Kalinga’s tribal wars, she said.
It is therefore infuriating, she said, when soldiers from outside threaten them within their own territory.
Belen said the soldiers, some 20 of them, all in full combat gear, first came to her village of Western Uma in Lubuagan town on October 7 last year, heading straight for her house and shocking her children and grandchildren.
One of the soldiers, she said, began questioning her about the New People’s Army guerrillas she supposedly sheltered. Although angered, she served them coffee but then told them to leave immediately.
Instead, the soldiers set up camp in Ag-agama.
Belen led campaigns to demand their pullout, citing complaints from women who had received catcalls or indecent proposals, or even been groped, and children traumatized at having weapons pointed in their direction from troops occupying a house beside their school.
The military presence, she said, prevented them from holding organizational and community activities, especially to discuss their opposition to Chevron’s application to build a geothermal plant, which the soldiers tagged as an NPA-backed effort. In 2012, she had led a community barricade to stop Chevron personnel from installing temperature testing equipment and made the rounds of media, academe, sectors and communities speaking about her tribe’s opposition to the project.
Belen also said she became the target of vilification by the soldiers, who would spread rumors about her in an effort to isolate her from the community.
The troops would also offer incentives for the men of the village to join the paramilitary Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit.
The August 11 phone call about the military summons made Belen unsure about returning to a village where, contrary to culture and tradition, she was no longer safe as a leader and member of the tribe.
But she said her duties to her family and people gave her no choice lest the fear the soldiers have sown in her community make them no longer able to unit and call for a military pullout.
“Kunak man no bayanihan ti inyumay dagita, dadaelen da met gayam ti urnos mi nga umili,” (I thought they are here to promote cooperation but they have crushed our unity and solidarity as a community),” Belen said.
She said the assumption to office of President Rodrigo Duterte led them to believe change would come, that they would finally be rid of the soldiers and their abusive behavior -- the drunken binges, the harassment of women, the indiscriminate firing of their weapons -- although she added she remains hopeful things will be better soon.
Innabuyog chairperson Virginia Dammay said they understand the difficulties Belen faces as an ancestral land defender who is unsafe in her own land and vowed their full support.
“We will not allow such atrocities to continue. We demand the immediate pullout of the AFP troop in Western Uma and for them to answer for their numerous human rights violations,” Dammay said.
http://interaksyon.com/article/131739/kalinga-woman-tribal-leader-unsafe-in-her-own-land
Beatrice Belen at home. (photo courtesy of Innabuyog-Gabriela)
On August 11, Beatrice Belen, vice chairperson of Innabuyog, the Cordillera alliance of indigenous women’s organizations, was in Baguio joining activities of her group, when she received a phone call from her family.
The message was unnerving -- troops of the 501st infantry Brigade, who had been encamped in her Kalinga village since October last year, were summoning her and other members of the Uma tribe.
Slumped in a corner of the women’s center here after receiving the call, Belen, who has been leading the fight to protect her tribe’s ancestral domain, said in their culture, the ili or village is always safe haven. This was so even during the height of Kalinga’s tribal wars, she said.
It is therefore infuriating, she said, when soldiers from outside threaten them within their own territory.
Belen said the soldiers, some 20 of them, all in full combat gear, first came to her village of Western Uma in Lubuagan town on October 7 last year, heading straight for her house and shocking her children and grandchildren.
One of the soldiers, she said, began questioning her about the New People’s Army guerrillas she supposedly sheltered. Although angered, she served them coffee but then told them to leave immediately.
Instead, the soldiers set up camp in Ag-agama.
Belen led campaigns to demand their pullout, citing complaints from women who had received catcalls or indecent proposals, or even been groped, and children traumatized at having weapons pointed in their direction from troops occupying a house beside their school.
The military presence, she said, prevented them from holding organizational and community activities, especially to discuss their opposition to Chevron’s application to build a geothermal plant, which the soldiers tagged as an NPA-backed effort. In 2012, she had led a community barricade to stop Chevron personnel from installing temperature testing equipment and made the rounds of media, academe, sectors and communities speaking about her tribe’s opposition to the project.
Belen also said she became the target of vilification by the soldiers, who would spread rumors about her in an effort to isolate her from the community.
The troops would also offer incentives for the men of the village to join the paramilitary Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit.
The August 11 phone call about the military summons made Belen unsure about returning to a village where, contrary to culture and tradition, she was no longer safe as a leader and member of the tribe.
But she said her duties to her family and people gave her no choice lest the fear the soldiers have sown in her community make them no longer able to unit and call for a military pullout.
“Kunak man no bayanihan ti inyumay dagita, dadaelen da met gayam ti urnos mi nga umili,” (I thought they are here to promote cooperation but they have crushed our unity and solidarity as a community),” Belen said.
She said the assumption to office of President Rodrigo Duterte led them to believe change would come, that they would finally be rid of the soldiers and their abusive behavior -- the drunken binges, the harassment of women, the indiscriminate firing of their weapons -- although she added she remains hopeful things will be better soon.
Innabuyog chairperson Virginia Dammay said they understand the difficulties Belen faces as an ancestral land defender who is unsafe in her own land and vowed their full support.
“We will not allow such atrocities to continue. We demand the immediate pullout of the AFP troop in Western Uma and for them to answer for their numerous human rights violations,” Dammay said.
http://interaksyon.com/article/131739/kalinga-woman-tribal-leader-unsafe-in-her-own-land
4 NPAs killed in Agusan del Sur
From the often pro-CPP online publication Davao Today (Aug 23): 4 NPAs killed in Agusan del Sur
Two days before the resumption of the formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, four members of the New People’s Army were killed after a military offensive on August 20 in San Luis, Agusan del Sur.
Allan Juanito, spokesperson of the NPAs, said a unit of the NPA-Western Agusan del Norte-Agusan del Sur Subregional Command were conducting “classroom activity” at around 8:30 am on August 20 in Sitio Kihinggay, Barangay San Pedro when they were raided by soldiers from the 26th Infantry Battalion.
He identified the four guerilla fighters as Winston “Ka Jerom” Mondejar, Henry “Ka James” Mansuconan, Jomar “Ka Alay” Tawide and Abel “Ka Gabriel” Oliver. He said one Red fighter was also wounded during the firefight.
“Even though fatally shot, Ka Gabriel, before his last breath, was able to heroically switch the command-detonated explosive chanced upon the flanked troops. According to civilian witnesses, more than ten casualties were suffered by 26th IB troopers,” Juanito added.
The Army’s statement said that the clash broke when the rebels fired at the government troops who were responding to reports of “rebel extortion” in the area. The Army also said that no one was reported killed or injured in the side of the military.
Juanito also said that the families of the NPA fighters “have seen indications of desecration of the bodies before they were sent to the morgue.”
The Army seized three AK47 and two M16 rifles, two ICOM radios, 20 bag packs and rebel documents.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/4-npas-killed-in-agusan-del-sur/
Two days before the resumption of the formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, four members of the New People’s Army were killed after a military offensive on August 20 in San Luis, Agusan del Sur.
Allan Juanito, spokesperson of the NPAs, said a unit of the NPA-Western Agusan del Norte-Agusan del Sur Subregional Command were conducting “classroom activity” at around 8:30 am on August 20 in Sitio Kihinggay, Barangay San Pedro when they were raided by soldiers from the 26th Infantry Battalion.
He identified the four guerilla fighters as Winston “Ka Jerom” Mondejar, Henry “Ka James” Mansuconan, Jomar “Ka Alay” Tawide and Abel “Ka Gabriel” Oliver. He said one Red fighter was also wounded during the firefight.
“Even though fatally shot, Ka Gabriel, before his last breath, was able to heroically switch the command-detonated explosive chanced upon the flanked troops. According to civilian witnesses, more than ten casualties were suffered by 26th IB troopers,” Juanito added.
The Army’s statement said that the clash broke when the rebels fired at the government troops who were responding to reports of “rebel extortion” in the area. The Army also said that no one was reported killed or injured in the side of the military.
Juanito also said that the families of the NPA fighters “have seen indications of desecration of the bodies before they were sent to the morgue.”
The Army seized three AK47 and two M16 rifles, two ICOM radios, 20 bag packs and rebel documents.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/4-npas-killed-in-agusan-del-sur/
SSPI framework now in final stage, says Deputy Defence Minister
From The Star Online (Aug 23): SSPI framework now in final stage, says Deputy Defence Minister
The proposal under the Sulu Sea Patrol Initiative (SSPI) for Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines to patrol the Sulu Sea together to fight maritime crime and terrorism is already at the final stage, said Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Johari Baharom (pic).
“We have already come to an understanding between the three Defence Ministers. The working group is working seriously on the SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) on how the patrols will be carried out. The template is the same as the Malacca Straits. I think now it is at a final stage,” he told a press conference after officiating the 10th Asean Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) held from Aug 22 to 25 at the Malaysian Armed Forces Officers’ Mess here.
He added that this was an effort to prevent kidnapping and piracy as the Sulu Sea is the most sensitive area in the region.
“Other (Asean) countries in this region are very concerned over what is happening in that area (Sulu Sea). Even though they are not involved (in the initiative), we have their support,” he added.
The initiatives specified under the SSPI framework comprise joint air patrols, coordinated naval patrols and exchange of military intelligence between Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.
The initiative aims to emulate the success of the Malacca Strait Sea Patrol (MSSP), which has reduced piracy, robbery, kidnapping and smuggling activities in the busy strait since 2004.
Navy chief Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin, who chaired the ANCM, said that the trilateral cooperation framework was signed on July 14 in Jakarta that was followed by a Trilateral Minister of Defence Meeting on Aug 2 to consolidate the mechanism of coordinated patrols in the respective maritime areas.
On the ANCM, Admiral Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the theme “Enhancing Operational Interoperability” was an encompassing theme for the forum to strengthen cooperation in maritime security matters among Asean member countries.
Among the issues that will be discussed during the meeting are issues on humanitarian assistance as well as addressing issues on countering piracy in the region.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/08/23/sspi-framework-now-in-final-stage-says-deputy-defence-minister/
The proposal under the Sulu Sea Patrol Initiative (SSPI) for Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines to patrol the Sulu Sea together to fight maritime crime and terrorism is already at the final stage, said Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Johari Baharom (pic).
“We have already come to an understanding between the three Defence Ministers. The working group is working seriously on the SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) on how the patrols will be carried out. The template is the same as the Malacca Straits. I think now it is at a final stage,” he told a press conference after officiating the 10th Asean Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) held from Aug 22 to 25 at the Malaysian Armed Forces Officers’ Mess here.
He added that this was an effort to prevent kidnapping and piracy as the Sulu Sea is the most sensitive area in the region.
“Other (Asean) countries in this region are very concerned over what is happening in that area (Sulu Sea). Even though they are not involved (in the initiative), we have their support,” he added.
The initiatives specified under the SSPI framework comprise joint air patrols, coordinated naval patrols and exchange of military intelligence between Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.
The initiative aims to emulate the success of the Malacca Strait Sea Patrol (MSSP), which has reduced piracy, robbery, kidnapping and smuggling activities in the busy strait since 2004.
Navy chief Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin, who chaired the ANCM, said that the trilateral cooperation framework was signed on July 14 in Jakarta that was followed by a Trilateral Minister of Defence Meeting on Aug 2 to consolidate the mechanism of coordinated patrols in the respective maritime areas.
On the ANCM, Admiral Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the theme “Enhancing Operational Interoperability” was an encompassing theme for the forum to strengthen cooperation in maritime security matters among Asean member countries.
Among the issues that will be discussed during the meeting are issues on humanitarian assistance as well as addressing issues on countering piracy in the region.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/08/23/sspi-framework-now-in-final-stage-says-deputy-defence-minister/
Police to focus on gathering quality intelligence to bolster Sabah east coast security
From The New Straits Times (Aug 22): Police to focus on gathering quality intelligence to bolster Sabah east coast security
KOTA KINABALU: Police will work on gathering quality intelligence to curb security problems in Sabah’s east coast.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Noor Rashid Ibrahim said this was among the measures discussed in today’s meeting with regards to enhancing the Eastern Sabah Security Command’s (Esscom) operational system.
“At the same time, we remind all district police chiefs especially in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (Esszone) to take extra effort to gather intelligence. The Special Branch unit too must do their part in assessing all collected information.”
Noor Rashid was speaking to reporters after chairing a meeting with Sabah police commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun and Esscom senior officers at the state police headquarters in Kepayan, here.
The meeting focused on coordinating operations to be carried out by Esscom and police in the Esszone.
Noor Rashid also gave his assurance that sea patrol operations would be planned accordingly, with emphasis placed on routes used by individuals to enter Sabah illegally.
“The results from this operation will be analysed and used as guidance when conducting future operations,” he said, adding that the 7pm-5am curfew should remain.
http://www.nst.com.my/news/2016/08/167512/police-focus-gathering-quality-intelligence-bolster-sabah-east-coast-security
KOTA KINABALU: Police will work on gathering quality intelligence to curb security problems in Sabah’s east coast.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Noor Rashid Ibrahim said this was among the measures discussed in today’s meeting with regards to enhancing the Eastern Sabah Security Command’s (Esscom) operational system.
“I do not want to elaborate on the measures which will take place but what is important is that there is excellent coordination between Esscom and the General Operations Force team in Sabah, Sarawak and in the Peninsula.
Noor Rashid was speaking to reporters after chairing a meeting with Sabah police commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun and Esscom senior officers at the state police headquarters in Kepayan, here.
The meeting focused on coordinating operations to be carried out by Esscom and police in the Esszone.
Noor Rashid also gave his assurance that sea patrol operations would be planned accordingly, with emphasis placed on routes used by individuals to enter Sabah illegally.
“The results from this operation will be analysed and used as guidance when conducting future operations,” he said, adding that the 7pm-5am curfew should remain.
http://www.nst.com.my/news/2016/08/167512/police-focus-gathering-quality-intelligence-bolster-sabah-east-coast-security
Navy chief says Malacca Strait and Sabah, Sarawak waters under control
From the Malay Mail Online (Aug 23): Navy chief says Malacca Strait and Sabah, Sarawak waters under control
A Malaysian navy vessel patrols waters near Langkawi island, May 17, 2015. — Reuters pic
The waters off Sabah and Sarawak, and the Malacca Strait are safe for tourist visits or commercial activities, says Navy Chief Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin.
He said members of the force assigned to look after the nation’s territorial waters were ready to ensure no foreign parties could penetrate the security control.
“In Sabah, resort operators are always in communication with the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom). “So far, resort operators have been able to convince tourists to continue visiting the area following tight surveillance by the resort management themselves,” he told Bernama here today.
He said for trade and fishing activities, fishermen were free to carry out their activities and adhere to the conditions set by ESSCom. They needed to folllow the time schdule at sea to avoid any untoward incident, he added.
On Eastern Sabah, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the areas should be given special attention from the aspect of security. “I did not say there is zero-crime in Eastern Sabah, it’s true there are criminal activities... but preventive measures have been put in place,” he assured.
For the Melaka Strait, he said joint operations would be carried out by Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia to ensure security. — Bernama
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/navy-chief-says-malacca-strait-and-sabah-sarawak-waters-under-control
A Malaysian navy vessel patrols waters near Langkawi island, May 17, 2015. — Reuters pic
The waters off Sabah and Sarawak, and the Malacca Strait are safe for tourist visits or commercial activities, says Navy Chief Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin.
He said members of the force assigned to look after the nation’s territorial waters were ready to ensure no foreign parties could penetrate the security control.
“In Sabah, resort operators are always in communication with the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom). “So far, resort operators have been able to convince tourists to continue visiting the area following tight surveillance by the resort management themselves,” he told Bernama here today.
He said for trade and fishing activities, fishermen were free to carry out their activities and adhere to the conditions set by ESSCom. They needed to folllow the time schdule at sea to avoid any untoward incident, he added.
On Eastern Sabah, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the areas should be given special attention from the aspect of security. “I did not say there is zero-crime in Eastern Sabah, it’s true there are criminal activities... but preventive measures have been put in place,” he assured.
For the Melaka Strait, he said joint operations would be carried out by Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia to ensure security. — Bernama
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/navy-chief-says-malacca-strait-and-sabah-sarawak-waters-under-control
Philippines: 5 troops killed in clashes with Abu Sayyaf
From Anadolu Agency (Aug 23): Philippines: 5 troops killed in clashes with Abu Sayyaf
Fighting breaks out near towns in Muslim south from which military recently pushed back militants from Daesh-linked group
The Abu Sayyaf is among two militant groups in the south who have pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of a peace process between the government and the country's biggest Moro group that it could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict.
Fighting breaks out near towns in Muslim south from which military recently pushed back militants from Daesh-linked group
The Abu Sayyaf is among two militant groups in the south who have pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of a peace process between the government and the country's biggest Moro group that it could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict.
At least five Philippine troops have been killed in clashes with a Daesh-linked group as fighting resumed outside three towns in the Muslim south from which the military recently pushed back Abu Sayyaf militants.
Richard Falcatan, dxN0 radio station manager, told Anadolu Agency that three soldiers and two government militiamen were killed in two separate clashes Tuesday in the troubled island province of Basilan, where the military recently overran Abu Sayyaf encampments.
He quoted Governor Jim Hataman-Saliman as saying that three soldiers and a militiaman died in fighting in Tuburan town, where the Abu Sayyaf reportedly fled after government troops captured at least three of their hilltop strongholds in Tipo-Tipo town last week.
A second encounter broke out after Abu Sayyaf members reportedly fired on militiamen verifying reports on the presence of militants in Sumisip town, leaving a militia volunteer dead and three others wounded.
Meanwhile in the neighboring island province of Sulu, the Abu Sayyaf was blamed for a hand grenade attack on a Catholic convent in a dawn attack in which no casualties were reported.
Sen. Supt. Abraham Orbita, provincial police director, said in a statement that the incident -- which resulted in damage to the interior of Mt. Carmel Cathedral -- caused panic in the neighborhood.
Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortions in a self-determined fight for an independent province in the Philippines.
It is notorious for beheading victims after ransoms have failed to be paid for their release.
The Abu Sayyaf is among two militant groups in the south who have pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of a peace process between the government and the country's biggest Moro group that it could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict.
3 soldiers slain in clashes with Sayyaf
From the Manila Times (Aug 23): 3 soldiers slain in clashes with Sayyaf
Three soldiers and a militiaman were killed in fierce clashes Tuesday with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists in the restive southern province of Basilan in Mindanao.
Officials said the fighting erupted in Tuburan town where security forces were chasing after the ASG bandits, who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State or the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.
One civilian was wounded from stray bullets during the fighting.
No other details of the clashes were immediately available but the military previously captured two Abu Sayyaf encampments in Tipo-Tipo town and claimed to have killed at least 45 militants–although no cadavers had been recovered–in a month-long operation in Basilan that also left more than a dozen soldiers injured.
There were no reports about the Abu Sayyaf hostages in Basilan–five Malaysian tugboat crew kidnapped off Sabah recently and 10 Indonesian sailors in Sulu, who were also abducted near the Philippine border who were brought to the two provinces.
The military said operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group are continuing in Basilan and Sulu.
The clashes coincided with an ASG grenade attack on the residence of Catholic priests in the village of Kakuyagan in Jolo town in Sulu.
No one was reported injured in the attack reportedly carried out by two men riding a motorcycle.
http://www.manilatimes.net/3-soldiers-slain-in-clashes-with-sayyaf/281632/
Three soldiers and a militiaman were killed in fierce clashes Tuesday with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists in the restive southern province of Basilan in Mindanao.
Officials said the fighting erupted in Tuburan town where security forces were chasing after the ASG bandits, who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State or the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.
One civilian was wounded from stray bullets during the fighting.
No other details of the clashes were immediately available but the military previously captured two Abu Sayyaf encampments in Tipo-Tipo town and claimed to have killed at least 45 militants–although no cadavers had been recovered–in a month-long operation in Basilan that also left more than a dozen soldiers injured.
There were no reports about the Abu Sayyaf hostages in Basilan–five Malaysian tugboat crew kidnapped off Sabah recently and 10 Indonesian sailors in Sulu, who were also abducted near the Philippine border who were brought to the two provinces.
The military said operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group are continuing in Basilan and Sulu.
The clashes coincided with an ASG grenade attack on the residence of Catholic priests in the village of Kakuyagan in Jolo town in Sulu.
No one was reported injured in the attack reportedly carried out by two men riding a motorcycle.
http://www.manilatimes.net/3-soldiers-slain-in-clashes-with-sayyaf/281632/
Govt banks on highly paid cops, troops to clinch war for peace and order in PHL (Part 1)
From the Business Mirror (aug 21): Govt banks on highly paid cops, troops to clinch war for peace and order in PHL (Part 1)
In Photo: This file photo shows members of the Philippine Army during a troop parade in Manila. The Philippine government under President Duterte believes raising the salaries of soldiers and policemen may intensify the fight against crime.
Part One
CAN the government pay its way to fight crime and for peace and order?
With the plan of President Duterte to hike the pay of policemen and soldiers, it appears so. Mr. Duterte, it seems, is wielding the powers vested in his office to ensure his centerpiece program of ridding the country of crime, particularly illegal-drugs business, will succeed.
The Chief Executive has upped the pressure: He set a deadline of six months to accomplish his campaign promise.
One of the powers wielded by Mr. Duterte is by placing the Philippine National Police (PNP) under his direct command to produce results. With the overwhelming number of arrests, and even dead bodies, something unprecedented in PNP history, it appears the whole police organization heeded the order of the Commander in Chief.
Citing official police data, the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) has said an average of 10 persons a day is being killed as Mr. Duterte launched his war on illegal drugs. PCIJ said on its web site that about 141 persons a day on average was arrested, based on PNP data from July 1 to 13 alone.
Foolproof plan
IN pushing policemen to accomplish the goal, which the President and PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa believed is doable, Mr. Duterte was making sure the policemen are “foolproof” for the campaign. The President said this could be done if the government ups the officers’ morale and welfare through a promise of increase of, doubling even, their salaries.
After all, the illegal-drugs problem has reached its unprecedented level because of some corrupt and crooked policemen who are on the take from drug lords by acting as coddlers and protectors. Some were even acting as drug dealers themselves.
Dela Rosa said getting the full and direct support of the President in the anticriminality campaign is a great morale booster for the policemen. Receiving an extra pay or having a salary increase counts much more, he added. However, he said, as law enforcers, they are mandated to do their duties without added emoluments.
The PNP chief said the salary increase should prod the organization to work more and perform better. This is the reason I am also aghast every time I learn that a member of the organization is involved in illegal activity, he said.
As the “father” of the PNP, dela Rosa also vowed to take care of the morale and welfare of policemen by providing all of their needs.
“Dapat suklian naman ito,” the PNP chief said of the all-out support of the President to the organization.
Returning favors
DELA Rosa said the salary increase and other kind of support by the President to the PNP should be repaid by the policemen with a renewed sense of dedication to their mandated tasks, higher service to the Filipinos and excellent performance as law enforcers.
President Duterte has promised to increase or implement the doubling of monthly pay of every policeman until December this year.
Early last month, Sen. Alan Peter S. Cayetano filed a measure pushing for the increase in the salaries and other benefits of policemen and other law enforcers.
Cayetano’s bill sought to increase the base pay and allowances of PNP personnel,
allowing a policeman with the rank of Police Officer 1 (PO1), the lowest rank in the PNP, to receive a gross minimum pay of P50,530 (about $1,089.07) a month, inclusive of benefits and allowances.
In contrast, a rookie cop in the New York City Police Department receive a base salary of $41,975 per year, which is roughly P150,000 a month.
Cayetano explained that “police personnel in the country do not receive adequate compensation from the government, despite the risk to their lives brought by their profession.” The senator, who was Mr. Duterte’s running mate in the last election, also said the police force’s low wage “makes them vulnerable to the temptation of corruption.”
The senator noted that a policeman with the rank of PO1 only gets a monthly pay of P14,834. According to Cayetano, that amount is way below the monthly living wage of P27,510 for a family of five set by the National Wages and Productivity Commission.
“It is not enough that we punish and remove corrupt cops from the service,” he said. “Without just compensation, crime and corruption will only seduce what is left of the government’s honest, yet, impoverished police personnel.”
Arroyo bill
A similar bill was also filed before the House of Representatives by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Arroyo’s proposed bill seeks an increase in the salaries of not only policemen, but even members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Arroyo, currently the representative of the Second District of Pampanga, said her House Bill 304 responds to “the call to help the administration to lessen, if not end, the war in the country, as well as the eradication of corruption, drugs and criminality.”
“In order to enhance the general welfare, commitment to service and professionalism of the members of the PNP and the AFP, the monthly take-home pay of its personnel shall be doubled,” Arroyo’s proposed measure reads.
Arroyo said the funds for the salary increase should be taken from the “appropriation for savings” of the PNP and the AFP, with the adjustment to be incorporated later in the national budget.
“The implementation of the Act shall be undertaken in staggered phases, but not to exceed five years taking into consideration the financial position of the national government; provided, that any partial implementation shall be uniform and proportionate for all ranks,” Arroyo’s bill said.
Base pay
UNTIL last year, the base pay of a policeman with a rank of PO1 was P13,492 a month, while a police inspector was receiving P28,839 monthly. On the other hand, a police senior inspector was getting P31,251 a month.
The monthly salaries of policemen only increased this year following the implementation of EO 201, issued by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III on February 19. That EO ordered the implementation of a modified salary schedule for civilian personnel and additional benefits for military and uniformed personnel over a four-year period starting 2016 until 2019.
The first tranche of the monthly provisional allowance for uniformed police personnel ranges from P342 for a PO1, P2,651 for a senior police officer (4, P4,092 for a police inspector and P9,708 for a police chief superintendent.
The hazard pay of policemen also increased to the monthly rate of P390, from the former P240, with subsequent annual increases up to P840 in 2019.
Police officers with ranks of senior superintendent up to director general were also entitled to monthly officers’ allowance ranging from P1,000 to P9,000 in the first tranche of implementation.
To be continued
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/08/21/govt-banks-on-highly-paid-cops-troops-to-clinch-war-for-peace-and-order-in-phl/
In Photo: This file photo shows members of the Philippine Army during a troop parade in Manila. The Philippine government under President Duterte believes raising the salaries of soldiers and policemen may intensify the fight against crime.
Part One
CAN the government pay its way to fight crime and for peace and order?
With the plan of President Duterte to hike the pay of policemen and soldiers, it appears so. Mr. Duterte, it seems, is wielding the powers vested in his office to ensure his centerpiece program of ridding the country of crime, particularly illegal-drugs business, will succeed.
The Chief Executive has upped the pressure: He set a deadline of six months to accomplish his campaign promise.
One of the powers wielded by Mr. Duterte is by placing the Philippine National Police (PNP) under his direct command to produce results. With the overwhelming number of arrests, and even dead bodies, something unprecedented in PNP history, it appears the whole police organization heeded the order of the Commander in Chief.
Citing official police data, the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) has said an average of 10 persons a day is being killed as Mr. Duterte launched his war on illegal drugs. PCIJ said on its web site that about 141 persons a day on average was arrested, based on PNP data from July 1 to 13 alone.
Foolproof plan
IN pushing policemen to accomplish the goal, which the President and PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa believed is doable, Mr. Duterte was making sure the policemen are “foolproof” for the campaign. The President said this could be done if the government ups the officers’ morale and welfare through a promise of increase of, doubling even, their salaries.
After all, the illegal-drugs problem has reached its unprecedented level because of some corrupt and crooked policemen who are on the take from drug lords by acting as coddlers and protectors. Some were even acting as drug dealers themselves.
Dela Rosa said getting the full and direct support of the President in the anticriminality campaign is a great morale booster for the policemen. Receiving an extra pay or having a salary increase counts much more, he added. However, he said, as law enforcers, they are mandated to do their duties without added emoluments.
The PNP chief said the salary increase should prod the organization to work more and perform better. This is the reason I am also aghast every time I learn that a member of the organization is involved in illegal activity, he said.
As the “father” of the PNP, dela Rosa also vowed to take care of the morale and welfare of policemen by providing all of their needs.
“Dapat suklian naman ito,” the PNP chief said of the all-out support of the President to the organization.
Returning favors
DELA Rosa said the salary increase and other kind of support by the President to the PNP should be repaid by the policemen with a renewed sense of dedication to their mandated tasks, higher service to the Filipinos and excellent performance as law enforcers.
President Duterte has promised to increase or implement the doubling of monthly pay of every policeman until December this year.
Early last month, Sen. Alan Peter S. Cayetano filed a measure pushing for the increase in the salaries and other benefits of policemen and other law enforcers.
Cayetano’s bill sought to increase the base pay and allowances of PNP personnel,
allowing a policeman with the rank of Police Officer 1 (PO1), the lowest rank in the PNP, to receive a gross minimum pay of P50,530 (about $1,089.07) a month, inclusive of benefits and allowances.
In contrast, a rookie cop in the New York City Police Department receive a base salary of $41,975 per year, which is roughly P150,000 a month.
Cayetano explained that “police personnel in the country do not receive adequate compensation from the government, despite the risk to their lives brought by their profession.” The senator, who was Mr. Duterte’s running mate in the last election, also said the police force’s low wage “makes them vulnerable to the temptation of corruption.”
The senator noted that a policeman with the rank of PO1 only gets a monthly pay of P14,834. According to Cayetano, that amount is way below the monthly living wage of P27,510 for a family of five set by the National Wages and Productivity Commission.
“It is not enough that we punish and remove corrupt cops from the service,” he said. “Without just compensation, crime and corruption will only seduce what is left of the government’s honest, yet, impoverished police personnel.”
Arroyo bill
A similar bill was also filed before the House of Representatives by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Arroyo’s proposed bill seeks an increase in the salaries of not only policemen, but even members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Arroyo, currently the representative of the Second District of Pampanga, said her House Bill 304 responds to “the call to help the administration to lessen, if not end, the war in the country, as well as the eradication of corruption, drugs and criminality.”
“In order to enhance the general welfare, commitment to service and professionalism of the members of the PNP and the AFP, the monthly take-home pay of its personnel shall be doubled,” Arroyo’s proposed measure reads.
Arroyo said the funds for the salary increase should be taken from the “appropriation for savings” of the PNP and the AFP, with the adjustment to be incorporated later in the national budget.
“The implementation of the Act shall be undertaken in staggered phases, but not to exceed five years taking into consideration the financial position of the national government; provided, that any partial implementation shall be uniform and proportionate for all ranks,” Arroyo’s bill said.
Base pay
UNTIL last year, the base pay of a policeman with a rank of PO1 was P13,492 a month, while a police inspector was receiving P28,839 monthly. On the other hand, a police senior inspector was getting P31,251 a month.
The monthly salaries of policemen only increased this year following the implementation of EO 201, issued by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III on February 19. That EO ordered the implementation of a modified salary schedule for civilian personnel and additional benefits for military and uniformed personnel over a four-year period starting 2016 until 2019.
The first tranche of the monthly provisional allowance for uniformed police personnel ranges from P342 for a PO1, P2,651 for a senior police officer (4, P4,092 for a police inspector and P9,708 for a police chief superintendent.
The hazard pay of policemen also increased to the monthly rate of P390, from the former P240, with subsequent annual increases up to P840 in 2019.
Police officers with ranks of senior superintendent up to director general were also entitled to monthly officers’ allowance ranging from P1,000 to P9,000 in the first tranche of implementation.
To be continued
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/08/21/govt-banks-on-highly-paid-cops-troops-to-clinch-war-for-peace-and-order-in-phl/
Government banks on highly paid cops, troops to clinch war for peace and order in PHL (Part 2)
From the Business Mirror (Aug 23): Government banks on highly paid cops, troops to clinch war for peace and order in PHL (Part 2)
WHEN he said he will do it, expect that it will be done—no ifs or buts.
This led to a groundswell of support for then-Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte that catapulted him to the presidency.
Now, as President, the public expects him to make good on his promises.
During the campaign, he vowed to raise salaries of soldiers and policemen to P50,000 a month within three years of becoming the country’s Chief Executive.
However, turning this promise to reality will not be easy, especially when the matter is about military salaries.
Salaries, pensions
THE root of the difficulty for Mr. Duterte to deliver on his presidential campaign promise lies in one link: salaries for active military personnel and the pension for military retirees are directly tied together.
The relationship between salaries and pension of military personnel is due to the automatic pension-hike provision in Presidential Decree (PD) 1638, otherwise known as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Retirement Law of 1979. The automatic pension hike provision means any salary hike for active military personnel will lead to a corresponding increase in the military pension backlog.
Unintended consequences
THE Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP had their hands full in meeting pension payments for military retirees after the mandated increase in the base pay of those in the active service was fully implemented in 2012.
The salary increase that emanated from the Salary Standardization Law (SSL) signed by then- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2008 was the cause of that unintended pension backlog.
Fortunately, military personnel who retired after the implementation of the salary increase were not affected. Only those who had retired before the pay hike came into being bore the financial brunt of this problem.
This onus was acknowledged by then National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in 2009 when he asked Congress to pass a law abolishing the Retirement Service Benefits System (RSBS) and to set up a system to return the contributions of RSBS members.
Teodoro also suggested that military personnel could be enrolled as members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
However, because military service is considered a hazardous occupation, financial and insurance experts warned that having soldiers as GSIS members could bloat the agency’s yearly expenses to the point the agency would no longer be financially viable.
Rep. Leopoldo N. Bataoil of the Second District of Pangasinan has said in February he estimates that by year 2022, the total pension costs of the AFP will eventually surpass the salaries paid to its active personnel.
“If this condition is allowed to persist, the government will eventually fail to provide adequate retirement pensions to the uniformed personnel.”
RSBS rationale
PENSION support to military personnel required a viable financial institution, the reason the RSBS was created in 1973 the first place.
PD 361 gave it the mandate to provide a self-reliant funding scheme and continuous financial support to the AFP retirement system. Unfortunately, RSBS failed.
Memorandum Order 90, which Aquino signed on April 8, 2016, said the Feliciano Commission Report established that the AFP-RSBS was “fundamentally flawed” and had not discharged its mandate.
As early as 2006, it was already proposed that a new agency be formed to replace the RSBS. It was then National Defense Secretary Avelino J. Cruz Jr. who first raised the idea. The other suggestion involved retaining the RSBS and infusing it with new funds to make the agency viable again.
The idea into pumping more funds met resistance.
In 2009 Teodoro said the main stumbling block was that those who were currently in active military service would end up paying for those who will be retiring. The only way to get around this problem is for the government to provide the capital contribution to the pension plan for a number of years. Teodoro said any government would find it difficult to meet such a huge financial outlay.
For the next four years of the Arroyo administration, the matter was consigned to Congressional limbo without any action on the DND’s proposal and the other suggestions to avert the military pension problem.
And then the Aquino administration entered the picture.
Payment shortfalls
THE Aquino administration acknowledged the problem.
“There will come a time when our budget may not be able to support the increasing number of pensioners,” then-National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin said in an interview shortly after the Aquino administration took over. “The government shoulders the complete pension payments of military retirees, especially after the AFP’s RSBS entered troubled financial waters.”
The RSBS was created in 1973 with an initial seed money of P200 million ($1.351 million at $1=P6.7563 in 1973 average currency exchange rate).
Under the Arroyo administration, the government resorted to asking for supplemental budgets to meet pension shortfalls. However, this was only possible because military pensions were lumped together with pensions of retirees from other government departments. At the beginning of the Aquino administration, a new set up was made.
The AFP Finance Center became responsible for making sure pensions and benefits were paid on time. Under this set up, the DND could tap into its savings to meet pension payment shortfalls.
Growing shortfall
HOWEVER, tapping into savings to meet pension payment shortfalls was a short-term solution at best because, in the long run, the shortfall would grow and the government would end up paying more. It was going to be a cycle difficult to break. As much as possible, pension payments and retirement benefits that were coming due would have to be directly incorporated in the General Appropriations Act. This can be seen clearly when the Aquino administration upped the DND budget by 81 percent, from P57.8 billion in 2010, to P104.7 billion in 2011.
Mr. Aquino explained that much of the increase in the DND budget was meant to meet the required pension payments.
Unfortunately, there was still the matter of the SSL, which kicked in in 2012.
So the matter of creating a new agency exclusively for dealing with the matter of military pensions was resurrected. But there was resistance to this idea. The shadow of the failure of RSBS was felt.
According to government reports, there were three main reasons RSBS failed: first, it had an inadequate starting capital; second, it was not run in the manner of GSIS or the Social Security System; third, the RSBS relied solely from contributions from soldiers, which were taken from their salaries. Neither the DND nor the AFP could contribute to the old RSBS pension plan. It was an insidious cycle that fed on itself with the RSBS bleeding financially to meet pension payments until it could no longer cope. The matter was compounded when the institution’s executives tied up the assets of the RSBS in what was later termed as “questionable deals.”
Writer’s note: Parts of this article originally appeared in several issues of the Philippines Graphic magazine from 2010 to 2014.
To be concluded
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/08/22/government-banks-on-highly-paid-cops-troops-to-clinch-war-for-peace-and-order-in-phl/
WHEN he said he will do it, expect that it will be done—no ifs or buts.
This led to a groundswell of support for then-Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte that catapulted him to the presidency.
Now, as President, the public expects him to make good on his promises.
During the campaign, he vowed to raise salaries of soldiers and policemen to P50,000 a month within three years of becoming the country’s Chief Executive.
However, turning this promise to reality will not be easy, especially when the matter is about military salaries.
Salaries, pensions
THE root of the difficulty for Mr. Duterte to deliver on his presidential campaign promise lies in one link: salaries for active military personnel and the pension for military retirees are directly tied together.
The relationship between salaries and pension of military personnel is due to the automatic pension-hike provision in Presidential Decree (PD) 1638, otherwise known as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Retirement Law of 1979. The automatic pension hike provision means any salary hike for active military personnel will lead to a corresponding increase in the military pension backlog.
Unintended consequences
THE Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP had their hands full in meeting pension payments for military retirees after the mandated increase in the base pay of those in the active service was fully implemented in 2012.
The salary increase that emanated from the Salary Standardization Law (SSL) signed by then- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2008 was the cause of that unintended pension backlog.
Fortunately, military personnel who retired after the implementation of the salary increase were not affected. Only those who had retired before the pay hike came into being bore the financial brunt of this problem.
This onus was acknowledged by then National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in 2009 when he asked Congress to pass a law abolishing the Retirement Service Benefits System (RSBS) and to set up a system to return the contributions of RSBS members.
Teodoro also suggested that military personnel could be enrolled as members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
However, because military service is considered a hazardous occupation, financial and insurance experts warned that having soldiers as GSIS members could bloat the agency’s yearly expenses to the point the agency would no longer be financially viable.
Rep. Leopoldo N. Bataoil of the Second District of Pangasinan has said in February he estimates that by year 2022, the total pension costs of the AFP will eventually surpass the salaries paid to its active personnel.
“If this condition is allowed to persist, the government will eventually fail to provide adequate retirement pensions to the uniformed personnel.”
RSBS rationale
PENSION support to military personnel required a viable financial institution, the reason the RSBS was created in 1973 the first place.
PD 361 gave it the mandate to provide a self-reliant funding scheme and continuous financial support to the AFP retirement system. Unfortunately, RSBS failed.
Memorandum Order 90, which Aquino signed on April 8, 2016, said the Feliciano Commission Report established that the AFP-RSBS was “fundamentally flawed” and had not discharged its mandate.
As early as 2006, it was already proposed that a new agency be formed to replace the RSBS. It was then National Defense Secretary Avelino J. Cruz Jr. who first raised the idea. The other suggestion involved retaining the RSBS and infusing it with new funds to make the agency viable again.
The idea into pumping more funds met resistance.
In 2009 Teodoro said the main stumbling block was that those who were currently in active military service would end up paying for those who will be retiring. The only way to get around this problem is for the government to provide the capital contribution to the pension plan for a number of years. Teodoro said any government would find it difficult to meet such a huge financial outlay.
For the next four years of the Arroyo administration, the matter was consigned to Congressional limbo without any action on the DND’s proposal and the other suggestions to avert the military pension problem.
And then the Aquino administration entered the picture.
Payment shortfalls
THE Aquino administration acknowledged the problem.
“There will come a time when our budget may not be able to support the increasing number of pensioners,” then-National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin said in an interview shortly after the Aquino administration took over. “The government shoulders the complete pension payments of military retirees, especially after the AFP’s RSBS entered troubled financial waters.”
The RSBS was created in 1973 with an initial seed money of P200 million ($1.351 million at $1=P6.7563 in 1973 average currency exchange rate).
Under the Arroyo administration, the government resorted to asking for supplemental budgets to meet pension shortfalls. However, this was only possible because military pensions were lumped together with pensions of retirees from other government departments. At the beginning of the Aquino administration, a new set up was made.
The AFP Finance Center became responsible for making sure pensions and benefits were paid on time. Under this set up, the DND could tap into its savings to meet pension payment shortfalls.
Growing shortfall
HOWEVER, tapping into savings to meet pension payment shortfalls was a short-term solution at best because, in the long run, the shortfall would grow and the government would end up paying more. It was going to be a cycle difficult to break. As much as possible, pension payments and retirement benefits that were coming due would have to be directly incorporated in the General Appropriations Act. This can be seen clearly when the Aquino administration upped the DND budget by 81 percent, from P57.8 billion in 2010, to P104.7 billion in 2011.
Mr. Aquino explained that much of the increase in the DND budget was meant to meet the required pension payments.
Unfortunately, there was still the matter of the SSL, which kicked in in 2012.
So the matter of creating a new agency exclusively for dealing with the matter of military pensions was resurrected. But there was resistance to this idea. The shadow of the failure of RSBS was felt.
According to government reports, there were three main reasons RSBS failed: first, it had an inadequate starting capital; second, it was not run in the manner of GSIS or the Social Security System; third, the RSBS relied solely from contributions from soldiers, which were taken from their salaries. Neither the DND nor the AFP could contribute to the old RSBS pension plan. It was an insidious cycle that fed on itself with the RSBS bleeding financially to meet pension payments until it could no longer cope. The matter was compounded when the institution’s executives tied up the assets of the RSBS in what was later termed as “questionable deals.”
Writer’s note: Parts of this article originally appeared in several issues of the Philippines Graphic magazine from 2010 to 2014.
To be concluded
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/08/22/government-banks-on-highly-paid-cops-troops-to-clinch-war-for-peace-and-order-in-phl/
Duterte offers defense post to Gibo Teodoro again
From Rappler (Aug 23): Duterte offers defense post to Gibo Teodoro again
'I hope he does accept,' says President Rodrigo Duterte, who is set to appoint Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to an ambassadorial post
NEW DEFENSE CHIEF? President Rodrigo Duterte (left) has renewed his offer to former defense chief Gilbert 'Gibo' Teodoro.
MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, August 23, that he has renewed his offer to Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro Jr to be his defense chief.
"I hope he does accept," Duterte said in his speech before military officers at the Palace Rizal Hall.
He said he will appoint Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as an "ambassador" to an unspecified country, which will create a vacancy in his Cabinet.
The President said he asked someone to relay the offer to Teodoro, who used to be his lawyer. Duterte first offered Teodoro to be his defense secretary on May 22, when it was clear that he had won the presidency.
Teodoro said then that he would think about the offer and consult his family, but then Duterte appointed retired army general Lorenzana to the defense portfolio.
Duterte suddenly discussed his plan for Lorenzana and Teodoro while telling military officers that his administration will ensure that the Armed Forces of the Philippines "will have the things the best that we can afford."
He then said that there's an ambassadorial post that needs to be filled in right away, and that he thought of Lorenzana for the position. Duterte did not mention any particular country, only that there is a pressing need to appoint the Philippine envoy to the head the diplomatic post there.
A Palace source said Lorenzana will be appointed ambassador to the United States.
The Philippines currently has no ambassador to the US, as former ambassador Jose Cuisia, an appointee of former President Benigno Aquino III, left his post when the new administration took over.
If Teodoro would not accept the offer, Duterte said he would choose from among the military service.
"Marami naman dito, pumili lang ako. You’re all good at okay na tao (There are a lot [of qualified people] here, I'll just choose from among you. You're all good and okay people)," he said.
Teodoro, 52, a former congressman and presidential candidate, had served as defense chief of the Arroyo administration.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/143962-duterte-offer-gibo-teodoro-defense-chief
'I hope he does accept,' says President Rodrigo Duterte, who is set to appoint Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to an ambassadorial post
NEW DEFENSE CHIEF? President Rodrigo Duterte (left) has renewed his offer to former defense chief Gilbert 'Gibo' Teodoro.
MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, August 23, that he has renewed his offer to Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro Jr to be his defense chief.
"I hope he does accept," Duterte said in his speech before military officers at the Palace Rizal Hall.
He said he will appoint Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as an "ambassador" to an unspecified country, which will create a vacancy in his Cabinet.
The President said he asked someone to relay the offer to Teodoro, who used to be his lawyer. Duterte first offered Teodoro to be his defense secretary on May 22, when it was clear that he had won the presidency.
Teodoro said then that he would think about the offer and consult his family, but then Duterte appointed retired army general Lorenzana to the defense portfolio.
Duterte suddenly discussed his plan for Lorenzana and Teodoro while telling military officers that his administration will ensure that the Armed Forces of the Philippines "will have the things the best that we can afford."
He then said that there's an ambassadorial post that needs to be filled in right away, and that he thought of Lorenzana for the position. Duterte did not mention any particular country, only that there is a pressing need to appoint the Philippine envoy to the head the diplomatic post there.
A Palace source said Lorenzana will be appointed ambassador to the United States.
The Philippines currently has no ambassador to the US, as former ambassador Jose Cuisia, an appointee of former President Benigno Aquino III, left his post when the new administration took over.
If Teodoro would not accept the offer, Duterte said he would choose from among the military service.
"Marami naman dito, pumili lang ako. You’re all good at okay na tao (There are a lot [of qualified people] here, I'll just choose from among you. You're all good and okay people)," he said.
Teodoro, 52, a former congressman and presidential candidate, had served as defense chief of the Arroyo administration.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/143962-duterte-offer-gibo-teodoro-defense-chief
PHL sends supplies to troops, residents at disputed Pag-asa Island
From GMA News (Aug 23): PHL sends supplies to troops, residents at disputed Pag-asa Island
Supplies have been delivered anew for Air Force and Navy personnel stationed at the disputed Pag-asa Island, as well as to civilians living in the area.
According to Cmdr. Armand Balilo, spokesman of the Philippine Coast Guard, the resupply for troops there was conducted on Sunday via BRP Batangas.
Balilo said the ship carried supplies "for our fellow Filipinos living" in the island, as well as clothes, rice, canned goods, and other grocery items for Air Force and Navy personnel.
The resupply also included drums of gasoline, a boat engine, and gallons of paint.
Eight Coast Guard personnel were also sent during the resupply trip to replace eight other officers in the area.
BRP Batangas also took to the island officials and employees of Kalayaan town, who are based in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
According to Rear Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado, Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command chief, this was not the first time the troops were resupplied since the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines in a case it filed against China.
The PCA ruling debunked China's nine-dash claim in the South China Sea, which affected the Spratlys Island, also known as the Kalayaan Island Group.
Mercado said the Coast Guard will help the Navy in rotation and resupply in the area.
Defense and military officials declined to reveal the exact number of troops at Pag-asa and other disputed areas in Spratlys Islands "for security reasons."
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/578679/news/nation/phl-sends-supplies-to-troops-residents-at-disputed-pag-asa-island
Supplies have been delivered anew for Air Force and Navy personnel stationed at the disputed Pag-asa Island, as well as to civilians living in the area.
According to Cmdr. Armand Balilo, spokesman of the Philippine Coast Guard, the resupply for troops there was conducted on Sunday via BRP Batangas.
Balilo said the ship carried supplies "for our fellow Filipinos living" in the island, as well as clothes, rice, canned goods, and other grocery items for Air Force and Navy personnel.
The resupply also included drums of gasoline, a boat engine, and gallons of paint.
Eight Coast Guard personnel were also sent during the resupply trip to replace eight other officers in the area.
BRP Batangas also took to the island officials and employees of Kalayaan town, who are based in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
According to Rear Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado, Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command chief, this was not the first time the troops were resupplied since the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines in a case it filed against China.
The PCA ruling debunked China's nine-dash claim in the South China Sea, which affected the Spratlys Island, also known as the Kalayaan Island Group.
Mercado said the Coast Guard will help the Navy in rotation and resupply in the area.
Defense and military officials declined to reveal the exact number of troops at Pag-asa and other disputed areas in Spratlys Islands "for security reasons."
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/578679/news/nation/phl-sends-supplies-to-troops-residents-at-disputed-pag-asa-island
Police chief admits keeping shabu in NPA video
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Aug 22): Police chief admits keeping shabu in NPA video
DAVAO CITY — The New People’s Army has released another video of Police Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen who was held captive by the communist rebels for almost three months now.
In a video released on Monday, August 22, Ongachen publicly apologized for “keeping” a sachet of shabu after a test buy operation conducted by law enforcement officers. The sachet of shabu was allegedly found by the NPA in his possession during a raid in the Governor Generoso Municipal Police station on May 29.
“Humihingi po ako ng tawad sa masang Pilipino lalong-lalo na kay President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, sa PNP organization at sa CPP-NPA-NDF sa pagkakamali ko pong paghawak ng isang sachet ng shabu na nakuha namin sa test buy na hindi ako dapat ang hahawak nito (I am apologizing to the Filipino people, especially to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, to the PNP organization and to the CPP-NPA-NDF for the mistake I have committed in keeping in my possession a sachet of shabu that we took during a test buy. I should not be the one to keep it),” he said.
Ongachen said that he was confident that he will not use the drug because he is not a drug user.
“I am reiterating that I am not a user, I am not a pusher and most especially, I am not a protector of drug trade,” he said.
The NPA said it targeted the Municipal Police Station based on the people’s demand to punish the protectors of rampant drug trafficking in the area.
The communist group has identified the municipality of Governor Generoso as a “gateway of illegal drug trade in the province.”
Meanwhile, Rigoberto F. Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Operations Command said the NPA unit who was holding Ongachen is now preparing for his safe and orderly release.
“Following the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire of the Central Committee of the CPP and the National Operations Command of the NPA and the reciprocation of the GPH of its own ceasefire, the custodial unit is nevertheless ready for any untoward event that may endanger POW Ongachen and the Red army’s safety,” Sanchez said.
He said that Ongachen “has declared willingness to support the NPA’s campaign against the prevalent drug trade in Governor Generoso and Davao Oriental province.”
He added that the police officer was given a political education by the NPAs. In the same video, Ongachen also called on President Duterte to pursue negotiations with the communists to address the cause of the armed conflict in the country.
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines in Southern Mindanao Region ordered on Friday, August 19 the release of Ongachen and another police officer, PO1 Michael Grande.
The two prisoners-of-war are currently in custody of different units of the NPA ComVal Davao Gulf Sub-Regional Command.
In a telephone interview Police Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna, spokesperson of Police Regional Office 11 said that they are still finalizing their official statement on the case of Ongachen taking into consideration the ongoing formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
The formal peace negotiations between the government and NDF resumed in Oslo, Norway on Monday, August 22.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/police-chief-admits-keeping-shabu-in-npa-video/
DAVAO CITY — The New People’s Army has released another video of Police Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen who was held captive by the communist rebels for almost three months now.
In a video released on Monday, August 22, Ongachen publicly apologized for “keeping” a sachet of shabu after a test buy operation conducted by law enforcement officers. The sachet of shabu was allegedly found by the NPA in his possession during a raid in the Governor Generoso Municipal Police station on May 29.
“Humihingi po ako ng tawad sa masang Pilipino lalong-lalo na kay President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, sa PNP organization at sa CPP-NPA-NDF sa pagkakamali ko pong paghawak ng isang sachet ng shabu na nakuha namin sa test buy na hindi ako dapat ang hahawak nito (I am apologizing to the Filipino people, especially to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, to the PNP organization and to the CPP-NPA-NDF for the mistake I have committed in keeping in my possession a sachet of shabu that we took during a test buy. I should not be the one to keep it),” he said.
Ongachen said that he was confident that he will not use the drug because he is not a drug user.
“I am reiterating that I am not a user, I am not a pusher and most especially, I am not a protector of drug trade,” he said.
The NPA said it targeted the Municipal Police Station based on the people’s demand to punish the protectors of rampant drug trafficking in the area.
The communist group has identified the municipality of Governor Generoso as a “gateway of illegal drug trade in the province.”
Meanwhile, Rigoberto F. Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Operations Command said the NPA unit who was holding Ongachen is now preparing for his safe and orderly release.
“Following the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire of the Central Committee of the CPP and the National Operations Command of the NPA and the reciprocation of the GPH of its own ceasefire, the custodial unit is nevertheless ready for any untoward event that may endanger POW Ongachen and the Red army’s safety,” Sanchez said.
He said that Ongachen “has declared willingness to support the NPA’s campaign against the prevalent drug trade in Governor Generoso and Davao Oriental province.”
He added that the police officer was given a political education by the NPAs. In the same video, Ongachen also called on President Duterte to pursue negotiations with the communists to address the cause of the armed conflict in the country.
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines in Southern Mindanao Region ordered on Friday, August 19 the release of Ongachen and another police officer, PO1 Michael Grande.
The two prisoners-of-war are currently in custody of different units of the NPA ComVal Davao Gulf Sub-Regional Command.
In a telephone interview Police Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna, spokesperson of Police Regional Office 11 said that they are still finalizing their official statement on the case of Ongachen taking into consideration the ongoing formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
The formal peace negotiations between the government and NDF resumed in Oslo, Norway on Monday, August 22.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/police-chief-admits-keeping-shabu-in-npa-video/
PEACE TALKS 101: Group launches lecture on GRP-NDF peace talks
From the often pro-CPP online publication Davao Today (Aug 22): PEACE TALKS 101: Group launches lecture on GRP-NDF peace talks
Sheena Duazo, spokesperson of Bayan Southern Mindanao Region, said that they will use the presentation during their talks in communities in Davao region in a bid to educate the public and enjoin them in supporting the peace process.
She said that it is their “contribution” to the peace process that formally resumed on Monday, August 22.
“We made this presentation for the public to easily understand the GRP-NDF peace talks,” Duazo told Davao Today in an interview during a forum coinciding the launching of the lecture guide at the Pastoral Building of Redemptorist Church here Monday.
The Peace Talks 101 tackles topics about the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army, political prisoners and why the public should support the peace process.
“It also explains the different types of ceasefire and the substantive agenda that will be tackled during the peace negotiations,” she said.
Duazo said they will also hold lectures, symposiums, and group discussions about the peace process. She said that this is a nationwide campaign of Bayan.
The GRP and NDFP formally opened peace talks August 22, 2016 up to August 28 at Oslo, Norway in attempt to end the armed conflict between the two parties.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/peace-talks-101-group-launches-lecture-on-grp-ndf-peace-talks/
PEACE TALKS 101. Multisectoral groups attend a forum on the resumption of the peace negotiations at the Pastor Building inside the Redemptorist Church compound in Davao City coinciding with the opening of the formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines on Monday, August 22, 2016. (Medel V. Hernani/davaotoday.com)
Coinciding with the resumption of the formal talks between the government and the National Democratic Front, progressive group, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan came up with Peace Talks 101, a presentation that discusses the peace negotiations in a simple way.
She said that it is their “contribution” to the peace process that formally resumed on Monday, August 22.
“We made this presentation for the public to easily understand the GRP-NDF peace talks,” Duazo told Davao Today in an interview during a forum coinciding the launching of the lecture guide at the Pastoral Building of Redemptorist Church here Monday.
Exodus for Justice and Peace convener Pastor Jurie Jaime is one of the lecturers during the forum on the peace negotiations held at the Pastoral Building of the Redemptorist Church in Davao City on Monday, August 22, 2016. (Medel V. Hernani/davaotoday.com)
“It also explains the different types of ceasefire and the substantive agenda that will be tackled during the peace negotiations,” she said.
Duazo said they will also hold lectures, symposiums, and group discussions about the peace process. She said that this is a nationwide campaign of Bayan.
The GRP and NDFP formally opened peace talks August 22, 2016 up to August 28 at Oslo, Norway in attempt to end the armed conflict between the two parties.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/peace-talks-101-group-launches-lecture-on-grp-ndf-peace-talks/
AFP’s ‘Oplan Bayanihan’ alarms CPP leadership
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 23): AFP’s ‘Oplan Bayanihan’ alarms CPP leadership
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said it was concerned with the actions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines amid a declaration of an indefinite ceasefire by President Duterte and the CPP’s own seven-day ceasefire.
In a statement released August 21, the CPP said that it was concerned about the “so-called peace and development operations under the much detested Oplan Bayanihan.”
“These operations, such as those being carried out in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, have been used in the past to justify the militarization of communities in the guerrilla zones and to carry out surveillance and harassment operations against community activists and leaders whom the AFP suspects of being members of local CPP branches and peasant organizations,” the statement said.
The CCP also appealed to President Duterte to order the AFP’s withdrawal from alleged detachments inside civilian communities.
This, it said, would “bolster the people’s trust in the GRP and the President’s determination to pursue the path to peace.”
The CPP also assailed the arrest of progressive group leaders in the past month.
It cited the arrest of national peasant leader Antonio Pajalla in Macalelon, Quezon. Pajalla was charged with rebellion last August 12.
Mindanao-based missionary Amelia Pond was arrested last week while in Cebu to attend an assembly of rural missionaries. She was slapped with murder charges.
“We urge the GRP President to effect their immediate release,” the CPP said.
Hundreds of lumad evacuees have camped out here in this city, coming from as far as Talaingod, Davao del Norte and Bukidnon.
The evacuees claimed that they were being harassed by the military in their areas.
http://www.mb.com.ph/afps-oplan-bayanihan-alarms-cpp-leadership/
In a statement released August 21, the CPP said that it was concerned about the “so-called peace and development operations under the much detested Oplan Bayanihan.”
“These operations, such as those being carried out in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, have been used in the past to justify the militarization of communities in the guerrilla zones and to carry out surveillance and harassment operations against community activists and leaders whom the AFP suspects of being members of local CPP branches and peasant organizations,” the statement said.
The CCP also appealed to President Duterte to order the AFP’s withdrawal from alleged detachments inside civilian communities.
This, it said, would “bolster the people’s trust in the GRP and the President’s determination to pursue the path to peace.”
The CPP also assailed the arrest of progressive group leaders in the past month.
It cited the arrest of national peasant leader Antonio Pajalla in Macalelon, Quezon. Pajalla was charged with rebellion last August 12.
Mindanao-based missionary Amelia Pond was arrested last week while in Cebu to attend an assembly of rural missionaries. She was slapped with murder charges.
“We urge the GRP President to effect their immediate release,” the CPP said.
Hundreds of lumad evacuees have camped out here in this city, coming from as far as Talaingod, Davao del Norte and Bukidnon.
The evacuees claimed that they were being harassed by the military in their areas.
http://www.mb.com.ph/afps-oplan-bayanihan-alarms-cpp-leadership/
Reds offer longer truce for amnesty
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 23): Reds offer longer truce for amnesty
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said it would implement an indefinite ceasefire once the government, through a general amnesty approved by Congress, releases more than 500 political prisoners.
“This [ceasefire] declaration can be issued soon after the completion of the release of at least five more consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and around 520 political prisoners nationwide, through a presidential proclamation of general amnesty as earlier broached by [President Duterte],” the CPP said in a statement on Monday.
The CPP hopes the President would issue a proclamation of general amnesty covering all political prisoners after the resumption of formal peace talks, “in order to encourage the CPP to expeditiously issue its declaration of interim ceasefire during the course of the peace negotiations.”
The peace talks between the government and the NDFP resumed on Monday and will end on Aug. 26 in Oslo, Norway.
Both sides, who agreed to a truce over the weekend, sat facing each other in Holmenkollen Park Hotel’s Nobel Room. The meeting convened at 3:30 p.m., Manila time.
“This is a conflict that has lasted for far too long,” Norwegian Foreign Minister Boerge Brende told the meeting, adding there now seemed to be a “historic momentum” building to end the conflict.
“I’m really crossing my fingers,” he told the parties, each represented by six negotiators.
Presidential Adviser to the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, during the opening ceremony of the negotiations, said it was symbolic that everyone was wearing the traditional barong Tagalog and Filipiniana dress.
“It shows that we are one undivided nation,” Dureza said in his opening statement, adding that the road to peace “is not always rosy.”
CPP founding chair and NDFP chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison said the Filipino people were rejoicing over the bright prospects of a just and lasting peace.
“We in the NDFP are optimistic the objective conditions and subjective factors are more favorable than before,” Sison said in his opening statement.
He said the Filipino people had been hoping for fundamental reforms in the country.
One of the five topics on the agenda of the negotiations is the amnesty proclamation for the release of all political prisoners, subject to concurrence by Congress.
In its statement on Monday, the CPP said that after the seven-day ceasefire lapses and until the CPP issues a unilateral declaration of interim ceasefire, it could order National People’s Army rebels “to stand down and remain on active defense.”
“Details will be issued after the Oslo talks,” it said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/808660/reds-offer-longer-truce-for-amnesty
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said it would implement an indefinite ceasefire once the government, through a general amnesty approved by Congress, releases more than 500 political prisoners.
“This [ceasefire] declaration can be issued soon after the completion of the release of at least five more consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and around 520 political prisoners nationwide, through a presidential proclamation of general amnesty as earlier broached by [President Duterte],” the CPP said in a statement on Monday.
The CPP hopes the President would issue a proclamation of general amnesty covering all political prisoners after the resumption of formal peace talks, “in order to encourage the CPP to expeditiously issue its declaration of interim ceasefire during the course of the peace negotiations.”
The peace talks between the government and the NDFP resumed on Monday and will end on Aug. 26 in Oslo, Norway.
Both sides, who agreed to a truce over the weekend, sat facing each other in Holmenkollen Park Hotel’s Nobel Room. The meeting convened at 3:30 p.m., Manila time.
“This is a conflict that has lasted for far too long,” Norwegian Foreign Minister Boerge Brende told the meeting, adding there now seemed to be a “historic momentum” building to end the conflict.
“I’m really crossing my fingers,” he told the parties, each represented by six negotiators.
Presidential Adviser to the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, during the opening ceremony of the negotiations, said it was symbolic that everyone was wearing the traditional barong Tagalog and Filipiniana dress.
“It shows that we are one undivided nation,” Dureza said in his opening statement, adding that the road to peace “is not always rosy.”
CPP founding chair and NDFP chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison said the Filipino people were rejoicing over the bright prospects of a just and lasting peace.
“We in the NDFP are optimistic the objective conditions and subjective factors are more favorable than before,” Sison said in his opening statement.
He said the Filipino people had been hoping for fundamental reforms in the country.
One of the five topics on the agenda of the negotiations is the amnesty proclamation for the release of all political prisoners, subject to concurrence by Congress.
In its statement on Monday, the CPP said that after the seven-day ceasefire lapses and until the CPP issues a unilateral declaration of interim ceasefire, it could order National People’s Army rebels “to stand down and remain on active defense.”
“Details will be issued after the Oslo talks,” it said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/808660/reds-offer-longer-truce-for-amnesty
Gov't, NDF begin first panel-to-panel meeting
From Rappler (Aug 23): Gov't, NDF begin first panel-to-panel meeting
Both sides agree to hold simultaneous meetings to fast-track the process that the government aims to complete within 12 months
ALL SMILES. The jovial mood continues at the start of the first panel-to-panel meeting between negotiators from government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
The government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) started their formal meeting in Oslo Tuesday morning, August 23, a day after the opening ceremony. (READ: Warriors, negotiators: Optimism on Day 1 of Oslo talks)
Both sides agree to hold simultaneous meetings to fast-track the process that the government aims to complete within 12 months
ALL SMILES. The jovial mood continues at the start of the first panel-to-panel meeting between negotiators from government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
The government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) started their formal meeting in Oslo Tuesday morning, August 23, a day after the opening ceremony. (READ: Warriors, negotiators: Optimism on Day 1 of Oslo talks)
But what should they talk about while the media were still present and the talks could not begin yet? The government panel members told their counterparts about the mouth-watering "sinigang," a Filipino sour soup, that the Filipino community in Oslo brought to their office.
FILIPINOS IN OSLO. Government negotiator Hernani Braganza and the Filipino community in Oslo.
The doors were closed to the media at 9 am (3 pm Tuesday in Manila) as both camps are expected discuss the following:
- 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 economic reforms; and end of hostilities and disposition of forces; and
- Reconstitution of the Joint Agreement on Security and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) list.
They are expected to reaffirm The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992, Breukelen Joint Statement of 1994, the JASIG, and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
Both sides agreed to hold simultaneous panels and committee level meetings to fast-track the process that the government aims to complete within 12 months.
"We have learned our lessons from past experiences. Both parties have resumed the stalled peace negotiations and are now committed to explore all avenues possible to fast-track the process," said government chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III.
The government panel is composed of experienced negotiators Bello, former Agrarian Reform Secretary Hernani Braganza, former Commission on Elections Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, and lawyers Angela Librado-Trinidad and Antonio Arellano.
The NDF panel is led by its chairman Luis Jalandoni. The members are Fidel Agcaoili, Connie Ledesma, Asterio Palima, and Juliet de Lima-Sison.
Both presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza and Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison were also in the first panel-to-panel meeting.
After the panel meeting, negotiators will supervise different committees discussing the substantive issues. Braganza will supervise discussions on the Reciprocal Working Committee on the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER).
Sarmiento will supervise discussions on the Reciprocal Working Groups on Political and Constitutional Reforms (PCR).
Arellano and Librado will supervise discussions on the End of Hostilities-Disposition of Forces (EOH-DOF).