From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3): Policeman injured in Basilan ambush
The police are conducting an investigation in a bid to unmask the gunmen behind the ambush of a police car where a policeman was injured in Lantawan, Basilan province.
Insp. Alfhad Osalli, Lantawan police director, identified the wounded policeman as PO1 Anwar Batah, who was hit in the right leg.
Osalli disclosed the ambush occurred around 1:15 p.m. Sunday in Sitio Crossing, Barangay Bulan-Bulan, Lantawan, Basilan province.
Osalli said the policemen were aboard a police car driven by PO1 Nasser Mohammad when a group of unidentified gunmen ambushed them upon reaching Sitio Crossing, Barangay Bulan-Bulan, Lantawan.
He said the policemen were returning to the headquarters after they conducted house visit on drug surrenderers when the gunmen ambushed them.
He said the gunmen fled upon sensing the arrival of reinforcement following a 10-minute shootout as the policemen fought back.
He said Mohammad was taken to hospital. The police car, which was hit during the shootout, bore five bullet holes.
He said all possible motives that could lead to the identities of the suspects are being considered in the conduct of the investigation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=928197
Sunday, October 2, 2016
DND to acquire gas turbine generator set for FA-50PH jet
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3): DND to acquire gas turbine generator set for FA-50PH jet
The Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating the sum of PHP75,049,000 for the acquisition of one set of gas turbine generator for its brand-new FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" jet fighters.
The fund will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the items with 540 days from receipt of Notice to Proceed.
Prospective bidders should have completed, within the last five years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the project.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10:00 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10:00 a.m. at the same venue.
The Philippines has a 12 FA-50PH order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth PHP18.9 billion.
The first two units arrived last Nov. 28 with the remaining 10 to be delivered during 2016 and 2017.
The FA-50PHs has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and a half times the speed of sound and is capable of being fitted air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air-to-air and heat-seeking missiles aside from light automatic cannons.
It will act as the country's interim fighter until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.
Its design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.
KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the FA-50PH.
The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.
The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.
There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons), five in the fuselage and two in the wings.
An additional 1,710 liters (452 US gallons) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.
Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.
The FA-50PH uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and Korean Aerospace Industries.
The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.
Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=928171
The Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating the sum of PHP75,049,000 for the acquisition of one set of gas turbine generator for its brand-new FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" jet fighters.
The fund will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the items with 540 days from receipt of Notice to Proceed.
Prospective bidders should have completed, within the last five years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the project.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10:00 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10:00 a.m. at the same venue.
The Philippines has a 12 FA-50PH order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth PHP18.9 billion.
The first two units arrived last Nov. 28 with the remaining 10 to be delivered during 2016 and 2017.
The FA-50PHs has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and a half times the speed of sound and is capable of being fitted air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air-to-air and heat-seeking missiles aside from light automatic cannons.
It will act as the country's interim fighter until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.
Its design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.
KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the FA-50PH.
The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.
The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.
There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons), five in the fuselage and two in the wings.
An additional 1,710 liters (452 US gallons) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.
Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.
The FA-50PH uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and Korean Aerospace Industries.
The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.
Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=928171
DND in the market for FA-50PH engine
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3): DND in the market for FA-50PH engine
The Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating the sum of PHP416,476,000 for the acquisition of brand-new engine unit for one of its FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft.
The fund for the engine will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Earlier reports claimed that the engine of one of the two operational FA-50PHs was totally destroyed after a bird strike in Clark Field, Pampanga.
The first two FA-50PHs, out of 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries, was delivered last November.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the engine within 720 days upon receipt of Notice to Proceed.
They should have also completed a similar project within the last five years.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10:00 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement, left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10:00 a.m. at the same venue.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=928188
The Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating the sum of PHP416,476,000 for the acquisition of brand-new engine unit for one of its FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft.
The fund for the engine will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Earlier reports claimed that the engine of one of the two operational FA-50PHs was totally destroyed after a bird strike in Clark Field, Pampanga.
The first two FA-50PHs, out of 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries, was delivered last November.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the engine within 720 days upon receipt of Notice to Proceed.
They should have also completed a similar project within the last five years.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10:00 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement, left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10:00 a.m. at the same venue.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=928188
Ceasefire, amnesty up in Oslo 2nd round of talks
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 3): Ceasefire, amnesty up in Oslo 2nd round of talks
Negotiating panels of the Philippine government (GRP) and the communist-led National Democratic Front (NDF) are expected to exchange drafts on the proposed bilateral ceasefire and craft an amnesty proclamation as peace talks are set to resume in Oslo, Norway, Thursday, Oct. 6.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said that they hope to come up with a ceasefire agreement that will include joint monitoring and possibly with a third-party overseer.
"The previous ceasefires were unilateral. We need to craft mechanisms to monitor violations and resolve conflicts and issues arising from them," Dureza explained.
While the unilateral ceasefires declared by both the GRP and the NDF were indefinite in nature, the presidential peace adviser said the government is eyeing a more permanent cessation of hostilities.
"These can only be done if we are able to agree on the more substantial issues of social and economic reforms. These are the more contentious issues and we expect humps and bumps during the peace negotiations," Dureza added.
Both panels have already crafted drafts on the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER), which is described as the "meat" of the peace talks.
The end of hostilities and disposition of forces—the other substantive agenda of the peace talks—hinge on the success of CASER, along with political and constitutional reforms.
Dureza, however, is confident that the inspiration provided by President Rodrigo Duterte will enable both parties to pull the peace process through.
"He may not be capable of elegant language, as you have noticed, but he has pure spirit and heart in wanting to have peace in the land," Dureza said on Friday, Sept. 30, at the closing ceremony of the 2016 National Peace Consciousness Month.
GRP peace panel head and Labor Secretary Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello III meanwhile said that a draft amnesty proclamation is already ready for submission during the second round of peace talks.
"The list has been narrowed down to just over 400 from a high of more than 500. As per agreement during the formal resumption of the peace talks in August, the proclamation will only cover NDF members currently detained," Bello elaborated.
He said the president, with the concurrence of Congress, could declare a general amnesty once the peace talks are brought to a successful conclusion.
Bello, however, said both negotiating panels will also have to hurdle issues on political and constitutional reforms in addition to the social and economic reform agenda for the peace talks to succeed.
The Philippine government is confident that it will be able to strike a deal with the communist rebels by August next year.
Peace talks between Philippine government and the NDF have been going on and off over the last 30 years with over 40 rounds of formal and informal talks.
Every time, however, the negotiations are scuttled due to hard line demands from both sides.
In July, President Duterte ordered the release of 22 detained NDF consultants, 16 of them later joined the first round of Oslo talks in August, to fulfill a campaign promise and to jumpstart the peace negotiations.
He also declared a unilateral ceasefire during his State of the Nation Address only to lift it later after the communist rebels ambushed a combined Army-CAFGU patrol.
The president nevertheless re-imposed the unilateral ceasefire on the eve of the August Oslo talks, which the NDF reciprocated with an indefinite and unilateral ceasefire of their own.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=928170
Negotiating panels of the Philippine government (GRP) and the communist-led National Democratic Front (NDF) are expected to exchange drafts on the proposed bilateral ceasefire and craft an amnesty proclamation as peace talks are set to resume in Oslo, Norway, Thursday, Oct. 6.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said that they hope to come up with a ceasefire agreement that will include joint monitoring and possibly with a third-party overseer.
"The previous ceasefires were unilateral. We need to craft mechanisms to monitor violations and resolve conflicts and issues arising from them," Dureza explained.
While the unilateral ceasefires declared by both the GRP and the NDF were indefinite in nature, the presidential peace adviser said the government is eyeing a more permanent cessation of hostilities.
"These can only be done if we are able to agree on the more substantial issues of social and economic reforms. These are the more contentious issues and we expect humps and bumps during the peace negotiations," Dureza added.
Both panels have already crafted drafts on the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER), which is described as the "meat" of the peace talks.
The end of hostilities and disposition of forces—the other substantive agenda of the peace talks—hinge on the success of CASER, along with political and constitutional reforms.
Dureza, however, is confident that the inspiration provided by President Rodrigo Duterte will enable both parties to pull the peace process through.
"He may not be capable of elegant language, as you have noticed, but he has pure spirit and heart in wanting to have peace in the land," Dureza said on Friday, Sept. 30, at the closing ceremony of the 2016 National Peace Consciousness Month.
GRP peace panel head and Labor Secretary Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello III meanwhile said that a draft amnesty proclamation is already ready for submission during the second round of peace talks.
"The list has been narrowed down to just over 400 from a high of more than 500. As per agreement during the formal resumption of the peace talks in August, the proclamation will only cover NDF members currently detained," Bello elaborated.
He said the president, with the concurrence of Congress, could declare a general amnesty once the peace talks are brought to a successful conclusion.
Bello, however, said both negotiating panels will also have to hurdle issues on political and constitutional reforms in addition to the social and economic reform agenda for the peace talks to succeed.
The Philippine government is confident that it will be able to strike a deal with the communist rebels by August next year.
Peace talks between Philippine government and the NDF have been going on and off over the last 30 years with over 40 rounds of formal and informal talks.
Every time, however, the negotiations are scuttled due to hard line demands from both sides.
In July, President Duterte ordered the release of 22 detained NDF consultants, 16 of them later joined the first round of Oslo talks in August, to fulfill a campaign promise and to jumpstart the peace negotiations.
He also declared a unilateral ceasefire during his State of the Nation Address only to lift it later after the communist rebels ambushed a combined Army-CAFGU patrol.
The president nevertheless re-imposed the unilateral ceasefire on the eve of the August Oslo talks, which the NDF reciprocated with an indefinite and unilateral ceasefire of their own.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=928170
MILF: FBCSO holds dialogue in Pikit town
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 3): FBCSO holds dialogue in Pikit town
Resource speakers from the Federation of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations, Inc. (FBCSO) conducted another orientation dialogue on federalism and the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on September 25 at Ma’ahad Shemalliy Al-Islamie in Manaulanen, Pikit, North Cotabato.
Moder Solaiman Ali Badang welcomed the guests and participants. Zaed Amen gave the opening remarks which were followed by words of wisdom by Ust. Mubarak Dumato, a staff from FBCSO. He delivered some Islamic perception about the significance in wider understanding of parliament.
Moidjoddin Talusob of Kalilintad Development Foundation, Inc. (KDFI) advised the audience to be “initiated in advocating people’s aspiration in order to support the way that the GPH and MILF peace process could be realized.”
Professor Abdullah Salik, Jr. gave the input on the advantages of Federalism and the BBL to the Bangamoro people. He compared the Federal form of government to the current unitary system of the Philippine government. He made an example that FBCSO was organized from different organizations which have their own laws and by-laws that follows. All of those have freedom to work their own interest and might be federated to each other into a common interest and will support the government and the MILF to achieve a real peace.
Prof. Salik also said that the Bangsamoro parliament is mentioned in the BBL that was crafted by the BTC but failed to be enact by the 16th Congress of the Philippines.
Mr. Nas Pulindao, Vice President of FBCSO, narrated the signed agreements of the Moro Fronts and the government from the 1976 Tripoli Agreement, the 1986 Jeddah Accord, the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) up to the 2014 GPH-MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) as basis for the enactment of enabling law. He also said that the challenge ahead for the government is how to realize the implementation of signed agreements between the government and the MILF.
The input sharing followed and some participants from 1,288 individuals have asked some questions and clarifications about the current situation of the Bangsamoro as well as the meetings made by both GPH and MILF Peace Implementing Panels. It was facilitated by Thax Mosaid of Ligawasan Network Development (LAND) in partnership with FBCSO.
Also in attendance were Mr. Alih Anso of Advocacy for Peace in ARMM, Ustadza Zahara Zumbaga of Special Agency for Women Concern (SAWC) and thousand of women and youth.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/902-fbcso-holds-dialogue-in-pikit-town
Resource speakers from the Federation of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations, Inc. (FBCSO) conducted another orientation dialogue on federalism and the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on September 25 at Ma’ahad Shemalliy Al-Islamie in Manaulanen, Pikit, North Cotabato.
Moidjoddin Talusob of Kalilintad Development Foundation, Inc. (KDFI) advised the audience to be “initiated in advocating people’s aspiration in order to support the way that the GPH and MILF peace process could be realized.”
Professor Abdullah Salik, Jr. gave the input on the advantages of Federalism and the BBL to the Bangamoro people. He compared the Federal form of government to the current unitary system of the Philippine government. He made an example that FBCSO was organized from different organizations which have their own laws and by-laws that follows. All of those have freedom to work their own interest and might be federated to each other into a common interest and will support the government and the MILF to achieve a real peace.
Prof. Salik also said that the Bangsamoro parliament is mentioned in the BBL that was crafted by the BTC but failed to be enact by the 16th Congress of the Philippines.
Mr. Nas Pulindao, Vice President of FBCSO, narrated the signed agreements of the Moro Fronts and the government from the 1976 Tripoli Agreement, the 1986 Jeddah Accord, the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) up to the 2014 GPH-MILF Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) as basis for the enactment of enabling law. He also said that the challenge ahead for the government is how to realize the implementation of signed agreements between the government and the MILF.
The input sharing followed and some participants from 1,288 individuals have asked some questions and clarifications about the current situation of the Bangsamoro as well as the meetings made by both GPH and MILF Peace Implementing Panels. It was facilitated by Thax Mosaid of Ligawasan Network Development (LAND) in partnership with FBCSO.
Also in attendance were Mr. Alih Anso of Advocacy for Peace in ARMM, Ustadza Zahara Zumbaga of Special Agency for Women Concern (SAWC) and thousand of women and youth.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/902-fbcso-holds-dialogue-in-pikit-town
NDF: Economic reforms key to prolonged ceasefire, Root causes first before silencing of the guns, says NDF
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front (Oct 2): Economic reforms key to prolonged ceasefire, Root causes first before silencing of the guns, says NDF
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) today said that a Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) is the key to a prolonged ceasefire with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
The NDFP issued the statement as the 60-day time period (August 27 to October 27) to reach an interim bilateral ceasefire nears. The crafting of an interim bilateral ceasefire was agreed upon by both parties during the first round of peace negotiations last August. The second round of negotiations will resume on October 6-10, 2016 in Oslo, Norway.
NDFP consultant Rafael Baylosis, member of the GRP-NDF ceasefire committee, said that “a mutually-satisfactory agreement on the CASER could further pave the way for a bilateral ceasefire.”
“In fact, crafting an agreement on social and economic reforms is the key to a prolonged ceasefire,” Baylosis said.
For his part, NDFP consultant and RWC-SER member Randall Echanis said “the necessary first step to achieving peace and development in the country is addressing the most basic problems of rural Philippines.”
“This includes pervasive poverty, peasant landlessness, heavy indebtedness, severe hunger, malnutrition, and gross inequality in income and wealth distribution,” Echanis said.
“Addressing the root causes first before the silencing of the guns is important in the October Oslo talks,” Echanis said.
The NDFP exchanged with the GRP a proposed “framework and outline” for the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms, the second substantive agenda of the peace negotiations according to the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
According to the NDFP proposal, the main CASER objectives are: a) carry out agrarian reform and national industrialization; b) advance the rights of exploited, oppressed, discriminated and disadvantaged sectors of society; c) uphold, protect, defend and promote economic sovereignty; and d) conserve the national patrimony and protect the environment. #
Reference:
NDFP International Information Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/economic-reforms-key-prolonged-ceasefire-root-causes-first-silencing-guns-says-ndf/
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) today said that a Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) is the key to a prolonged ceasefire with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
The NDFP issued the statement as the 60-day time period (August 27 to October 27) to reach an interim bilateral ceasefire nears. The crafting of an interim bilateral ceasefire was agreed upon by both parties during the first round of peace negotiations last August. The second round of negotiations will resume on October 6-10, 2016 in Oslo, Norway.
NDFP consultant Rafael Baylosis, member of the GRP-NDF ceasefire committee, said that “a mutually-satisfactory agreement on the CASER could further pave the way for a bilateral ceasefire.”
“In fact, crafting an agreement on social and economic reforms is the key to a prolonged ceasefire,” Baylosis said.
For his part, NDFP consultant and RWC-SER member Randall Echanis said “the necessary first step to achieving peace and development in the country is addressing the most basic problems of rural Philippines.”
“This includes pervasive poverty, peasant landlessness, heavy indebtedness, severe hunger, malnutrition, and gross inequality in income and wealth distribution,” Echanis said.
“Addressing the root causes first before the silencing of the guns is important in the October Oslo talks,” Echanis said.
The NDFP exchanged with the GRP a proposed “framework and outline” for the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms, the second substantive agenda of the peace negotiations according to the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
According to the NDFP proposal, the main CASER objectives are: a) carry out agrarian reform and national industrialization; b) advance the rights of exploited, oppressed, discriminated and disadvantaged sectors of society; c) uphold, protect, defend and promote economic sovereignty; and d) conserve the national patrimony and protect the environment. #
Reference:
NDFP International Information Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/economic-reforms-key-prolonged-ceasefire-root-causes-first-silencing-guns-says-ndf/
NDF: NDFP reminds GRP on CARHRIHL, release of all political prisoners
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Oct 3): NDFP reminds GRP on CARHRIHL, release of all political prisoners
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) today reminded the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) on the release of all political prisoners as “compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).”
The NDFP statement was issued three days before the resumption of the second round of peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway from October 6-10, 2016. Relatedly, the 60-day time period (August 27 to October 27) to reach an interim bilateral ceasefire nears. The crafting of an interim bilateral ceasefire was agreed upon by both parties earlier — during the first round of peace negotiations last August.
“The amnesty and release of all political prisoners is an act of righting the violations of the CARHRIHL and the Hernandez political offense doctrine,” says NDFP chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison.
“The release of all political prisoners would also serve as a very big incentive for a stable kind of ceasefire,” Sison said noting that during the discussions between NDFP panel member Fidel Agcaoili and President Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines, the latter commits that “the most expeditious way to release political prisoners is through an amnesty proclamation.”
In the August 26, 2016 Joint Statement, the Parties agreed that “the GRP Panel will immediately recommend to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte the issuance of an Amnesty Proclamation, subject to concurrence of Congress, for the release of prisoners who are listed by the NDFP and who have been arrested, imprisoned, charged, and/or convicted for alleged acts or omissions within the ambit of the Revised Penal Code or special laws in connection with alleged crimes in pursuit of one’s political beliefs.”
“The Parties will discuss the content and language of the Amnesty Proclamation,” the Joint Statement stated.
For his part, NDFP consultant Alan Jazmines reiterated that “a comprehensive agreement on social and economic reforms (CASER) could further pave the way for a bilateral ceasefire.”
“However, so far the political body language of the GRP Panel, the much delayed implementation of the agreement for the release of all political prisoners, and the lack of assurance that such could be able to be worked out soonest and without hitches indicate that the GRP’s interest is focused on a bilateral ceasefire,” says Jazmines, vice-chair of the NDFP Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms.
Last month, the NDFP exchanged with the GRP a proposed “framework and outline” for the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms, the second substantive agenda of the peace negotiations according to the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
According to the NDFP proposal, the main CASER objectives are: a) carry out agrarian reform and national industrialization; b) advance the rights of exploited, oppressed, discriminated and disadvantaged sectors of society; c) uphold, protect, defend and promote economic sovereignty; and d) conserve the national patrimony and protect the environment. #
Reference:
NDFP International Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-reminds-grp-carhrihl-release-political-prisoners/
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) today reminded the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) on the release of all political prisoners as “compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).”
The NDFP statement was issued three days before the resumption of the second round of peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway from October 6-10, 2016. Relatedly, the 60-day time period (August 27 to October 27) to reach an interim bilateral ceasefire nears. The crafting of an interim bilateral ceasefire was agreed upon by both parties earlier — during the first round of peace negotiations last August.
NDFP photo
“The amnesty and release of all political prisoners is an act of righting the violations of the CARHRIHL and the Hernandez political offense doctrine,” says NDFP chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison.
“The release of all political prisoners would also serve as a very big incentive for a stable kind of ceasefire,” Sison said noting that during the discussions between NDFP panel member Fidel Agcaoili and President Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines, the latter commits that “the most expeditious way to release political prisoners is through an amnesty proclamation.”
In the August 26, 2016 Joint Statement, the Parties agreed that “the GRP Panel will immediately recommend to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte the issuance of an Amnesty Proclamation, subject to concurrence of Congress, for the release of prisoners who are listed by the NDFP and who have been arrested, imprisoned, charged, and/or convicted for alleged acts or omissions within the ambit of the Revised Penal Code or special laws in connection with alleged crimes in pursuit of one’s political beliefs.”
“The Parties will discuss the content and language of the Amnesty Proclamation,” the Joint Statement stated.
For his part, NDFP consultant Alan Jazmines reiterated that “a comprehensive agreement on social and economic reforms (CASER) could further pave the way for a bilateral ceasefire.”
NDFP photo
“However, so far the political body language of the GRP Panel, the much delayed implementation of the agreement for the release of all political prisoners, and the lack of assurance that such could be able to be worked out soonest and without hitches indicate that the GRP’s interest is focused on a bilateral ceasefire,” says Jazmines, vice-chair of the NDFP Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms.
Last month, the NDFP exchanged with the GRP a proposed “framework and outline” for the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms, the second substantive agenda of the peace negotiations according to the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
According to the NDFP proposal, the main CASER objectives are: a) carry out agrarian reform and national industrialization; b) advance the rights of exploited, oppressed, discriminated and disadvantaged sectors of society; c) uphold, protect, defend and promote economic sovereignty; and d) conserve the national patrimony and protect the environment. #
Reference:
NDFP International Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-reminds-grp-carhrihl-release-political-prisoners/
CPP: On the passing away of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 29): On the passing away of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) extends its sympathies to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago who passed away this morning.
The Filipino people will remember Sen. Santiago for her crusade against corruption. She enjoyed broad support among the people and youth because of her rejection of the rotten politics that pervade the ruling system in the Philippines. She was among the prime legalist in the country.
Sen. Santiago will best be remembered for her opposition to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) as well as the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Although she approached the matter from her advocacy of constitutionalism, one can gleam a deep sense of patriotism and a profound loathing for the presence of foreign troops on Philippine soil.
Her passing away comes at a most unfortunate point in history when the Filipino people’s struggle against the presence of US military troops is at a juncture as the Duterte regime has made a stand to promote an independent foreign policy and oppose US war exercises in the country, a radical shift from seven dacades of servility to US interests.
She would have been a formidable friend in this fight.
http://www.cpp.ph/passing-away-sen-miriam-defensor-santiago/
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) extends its sympathies to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago who passed away this morning.
The Filipino people will remember Sen. Santiago for her crusade against corruption. She enjoyed broad support among the people and youth because of her rejection of the rotten politics that pervade the ruling system in the Philippines. She was among the prime legalist in the country.
Sen. Santiago will best be remembered for her opposition to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) as well as the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Although she approached the matter from her advocacy of constitutionalism, one can gleam a deep sense of patriotism and a profound loathing for the presence of foreign troops on Philippine soil.
Her passing away comes at a most unfortunate point in history when the Filipino people’s struggle against the presence of US military troops is at a juncture as the Duterte regime has made a stand to promote an independent foreign policy and oppose US war exercises in the country, a radical shift from seven dacades of servility to US interests.
She would have been a formidable friend in this fight.
http://www.cpp.ph/passing-away-sen-miriam-defensor-santiago/
Philippines looks to greatly expand airpower capabilities
From Quwa Defense News and Analysis Group (Oct 2): Philippines looks to greatly expand airpower capabilities
The KAI/Lockheed Martin F/A-50's test flight. Photo credit: Korea Aerospace Industries.
As part of Flight Plan 2028, the Philippine Air Force is looking to expand its airpower capabilities through the acquisition of another 36 Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50 Golden Eagle lightweight fighters to add to its existing force of 12 aircraft (IHS Jane’s).
Speaking to IHS Jane’s, a Philippine Air Force official described the additional FA-50 purchase as a means to build the force’s capacity to mitigate threats along its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippines will also examine its multi-role fighter options; a requirement Saab is hopeful to secure with its Gripen.
At this stage, the notion of another 36 KAI FA-50s is interesting. As noted in an earlier article on Quwa, the FA-50 is essentially a lightweight fighter, one comparable to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas, Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen, and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and CATIC JF-17 Thunder. This may sound a bit disingenuous if taken in light of the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, the lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) derivative of the FA-50, but one need only examine the platform’s subsystems and physical parameters.
The Golden Eagle platform is powered by the General Electric F404 turbofan, which is also utilized by the Tejas and Gripen C/D. The FA-50’s payload comes in at 3,700 kg distributed across seven hardpoints, which is markedly close to the JF-17’s payload and weapons carriage capacity. Its onboard sensor suite is built on the Elta Systems EL/M-2032 mechanically-steered pulse-Doppler radar, which is also found on the HAL Tejas. A fully functional electronic warfare (EW) and electronic countermeasures (ECM) suite as well as tactical data-link (TDL) system basically renders the FA-50 as a fully capable fighter solution.
There are several key aspects to consider:
First, the Philippines’ plan to build-up its air defence capabilities through the FA-50. A fleet of close to 50 such lightweight fighters is a credible force in own right, though the actual impact, especially on the region’s defence and security dynamics, can best be measured by the air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions the Philippines pursues and secures for its FA-50s.
Fortunately for Manilla, the potential scope may be relatively wide considering that Israel, a major vendor of modern EW and ECM equipment, sensors, and a wide range of munitions, is seeking to expand its defence ties with the Philippines. The provision of the Elbit Display and Sight Helmet System (DASH), the Rafael Python 5 high off-boresight (HOBS) AAM, Derby BVRAAM, and SPICE precision-guided bomb (PGB) kit would certainly be welcome additions to the Philippine Air Force inventory.
Second, the defence industry environment in the Philippines is beginning to take a certain shape. Seeing Manilla fully commit to the FA-50 platform, it is clear that KAI will maintain a very strong footprint in the country. Inversely, the Philippines could leverage its comparatively lucrative fighter requirement to call for commercial offsets and some measure of technology transfer, which could support the Government Arsenal Defense Industrial Estate (GADIE) initiative, which aims to nurture a defence industry base in the Philippines. KAI’s willingness to engage in such activities (which is plausible considering its partnership to co-develop its next-generation fighter with Indonesia’s PTDI) will confer the company a strong client-user relationship in the country, which could have an impact on the Philippines’ future acquisitions.
Saab’s decision to open a marketing office in Manilla is a major move in terms of indicating its seriousness to sell the JAS-39 Gripen to the Philippines. However, from a cost standpoint, the Philippines should be able to build-out a credible and – at worst, marginally inferior – solution through FA-50s configured with Israeli air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions. While the Philippines Air Force stated that the multi-role fighter is a long-term factor, it should be noted that the capability delta likely expected from this platform is also substantively higher than that of the FA-50.
It would be surprising if the Philippine Air Force does not contemplate the procurement of a medium-weight platform for its multi-role fighter requirement. In this respect, Saab’s JAS-39E/F would be a very compelling solution. However, KAI’s current opportunity to build a very strong client-vendor relationship in the Philippines could generate competition for the Gripen Next Generation (NG), namely from KAI’s next-generation fighter platform, the KFX.
The Gripen NG and KAI KFX will confer the Philippine Air Force with a substantive capability boost above its FA-50 fleet. Moreover, the Gripen NG and KFX will be better positioned (thanks to greater range and heavier payload) to assume long-endurance and long-range air defence duties. A credible offensive element would also be in play, particularly through the KFX, which benefits from a low radar cross-section (RCS) airframe design and internal weapons bay. Alternatively, the Gripen NG is in the late stages of its development and will be available within Flight Plan 2028’s timeframe.
http://quwa.org/2016/10/02/philippines-looks-greatly-expand-airpower-capabilities/
The KAI/Lockheed Martin F/A-50's test flight. Photo credit: Korea Aerospace Industries.
As part of Flight Plan 2028, the Philippine Air Force is looking to expand its airpower capabilities through the acquisition of another 36 Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50 Golden Eagle lightweight fighters to add to its existing force of 12 aircraft (IHS Jane’s).
Speaking to IHS Jane’s, a Philippine Air Force official described the additional FA-50 purchase as a means to build the force’s capacity to mitigate threats along its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippines will also examine its multi-role fighter options; a requirement Saab is hopeful to secure with its Gripen.
At this stage, the notion of another 36 KAI FA-50s is interesting. As noted in an earlier article on Quwa, the FA-50 is essentially a lightweight fighter, one comparable to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas, Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen, and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and CATIC JF-17 Thunder. This may sound a bit disingenuous if taken in light of the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, the lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) derivative of the FA-50, but one need only examine the platform’s subsystems and physical parameters.
The Golden Eagle platform is powered by the General Electric F404 turbofan, which is also utilized by the Tejas and Gripen C/D. The FA-50’s payload comes in at 3,700 kg distributed across seven hardpoints, which is markedly close to the JF-17’s payload and weapons carriage capacity. Its onboard sensor suite is built on the Elta Systems EL/M-2032 mechanically-steered pulse-Doppler radar, which is also found on the HAL Tejas. A fully functional electronic warfare (EW) and electronic countermeasures (ECM) suite as well as tactical data-link (TDL) system basically renders the FA-50 as a fully capable fighter solution.
There are several key aspects to consider:
First, the Philippines’ plan to build-up its air defence capabilities through the FA-50. A fleet of close to 50 such lightweight fighters is a credible force in own right, though the actual impact, especially on the region’s defence and security dynamics, can best be measured by the air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions the Philippines pursues and secures for its FA-50s.
Fortunately for Manilla, the potential scope may be relatively wide considering that Israel, a major vendor of modern EW and ECM equipment, sensors, and a wide range of munitions, is seeking to expand its defence ties with the Philippines. The provision of the Elbit Display and Sight Helmet System (DASH), the Rafael Python 5 high off-boresight (HOBS) AAM, Derby BVRAAM, and SPICE precision-guided bomb (PGB) kit would certainly be welcome additions to the Philippine Air Force inventory.
Second, the defence industry environment in the Philippines is beginning to take a certain shape. Seeing Manilla fully commit to the FA-50 platform, it is clear that KAI will maintain a very strong footprint in the country. Inversely, the Philippines could leverage its comparatively lucrative fighter requirement to call for commercial offsets and some measure of technology transfer, which could support the Government Arsenal Defense Industrial Estate (GADIE) initiative, which aims to nurture a defence industry base in the Philippines. KAI’s willingness to engage in such activities (which is plausible considering its partnership to co-develop its next-generation fighter with Indonesia’s PTDI) will confer the company a strong client-user relationship in the country, which could have an impact on the Philippines’ future acquisitions.
Saab’s decision to open a marketing office in Manilla is a major move in terms of indicating its seriousness to sell the JAS-39 Gripen to the Philippines. However, from a cost standpoint, the Philippines should be able to build-out a credible and – at worst, marginally inferior – solution through FA-50s configured with Israeli air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions. While the Philippines Air Force stated that the multi-role fighter is a long-term factor, it should be noted that the capability delta likely expected from this platform is also substantively higher than that of the FA-50.
It would be surprising if the Philippine Air Force does not contemplate the procurement of a medium-weight platform for its multi-role fighter requirement. In this respect, Saab’s JAS-39E/F would be a very compelling solution. However, KAI’s current opportunity to build a very strong client-vendor relationship in the Philippines could generate competition for the Gripen Next Generation (NG), namely from KAI’s next-generation fighter platform, the KFX.
The Gripen NG and KAI KFX will confer the Philippine Air Force with a substantive capability boost above its FA-50 fleet. Moreover, the Gripen NG and KFX will be better positioned (thanks to greater range and heavier payload) to assume long-endurance and long-range air defence duties. A credible offensive element would also be in play, particularly through the KFX, which benefits from a low radar cross-section (RCS) airframe design and internal weapons bay. Alternatively, the Gripen NG is in the late stages of its development and will be available within Flight Plan 2028’s timeframe.
http://quwa.org/2016/10/02/philippines-looks-greatly-expand-airpower-capabilities/
New app taps youth as “buddies” in peace process
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 3): New app taps youth as “buddies” in peace process
A new mobile app that aims for the youth’s awareness of and involvement in the ongoing peace process has been launched.
The PeaceBOC (Peace Buddies Organizing for Change) app, which targets millennials, provides updates on the government’s peace initiatives and has a built-in crowdsourcing campaign called “The President’s Peace Challenge.”
In the campaign, peace-loving individuals can post their self-recorded videos where they share their insights about the peace negotiations by the government with the Communist Party of the Philippines, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front and other groups under the theme “Tayo ang Pagbabago, Tayo ang Kapayapaan.”
The app is now available for download on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
http://www.mb.com.ph/new-app-taps-youth-as-buddies-in-peace-process/
A new mobile app that aims for the youth’s awareness of and involvement in the ongoing peace process has been launched.
The PeaceBOC (Peace Buddies Organizing for Change) app, which targets millennials, provides updates on the government’s peace initiatives and has a built-in crowdsourcing campaign called “The President’s Peace Challenge.”
In the campaign, peace-loving individuals can post their self-recorded videos where they share their insights about the peace negotiations by the government with the Communist Party of the Philippines, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National Liberation Front and other groups under the theme “Tayo ang Pagbabago, Tayo ang Kapayapaan.”
The app is now available for download on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
http://www.mb.com.ph/new-app-taps-youth-as-buddies-in-peace-process/
Dureza: Extremism will not take root in the Philippines
From the Philippine Star (Oct 2): Dureza: Extremism will not take root in the Philippines
Secretary Jesus Dureza, presidential peace adviser. File photo
President Rodrigo Duterte's peace adviser said Sunday that he is confident that extremism will not take over Mindanao after reports that five clerics of the separatist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have formed a new radical group in the fashion of the Islamic State.
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza said reports about the new radical group need to be validated but maintained that efforts are underway to address the causes of the Bangsamoro conflict.
He said such efforts involve bringing sustainable peace and improving the lives of the people. Even during the Aquino administration, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process has been launching Pamana projects — programs meant to bring government services as well as development to conflict-affected parts of the country, especially in parts of Mindanao.
The passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which proposes the creation of a political entity to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, has been touted as one way to curb the spread of religious extremism in Mindanao. The proposed Bangsamoro region, as envisioned, will have more autonomy than the ARMM but will remain part of the Philippines.
“It's a long process but we are moving forward one step at a time. When stakeholders embrace the peace paradigm, they will reject extremism in all forms,” Dureza said.
“So any possible foothold of extremists, as your query intimates and seems to forewarn, will not take root. There will still be bad guys around but they cannot dominate and direct the lives of peace-loving citizens,” he added.
Previous reports said the five radical preachers who left the BIFF now call themselves “moassesseen,” the Arabic word for founders. Their breakaway group reportedly aims to establish an Asian Islamic caliphate allied with the international terrorist group IS.
The five preachers who formed a new group were identified in previous reports as Salahudin Hassan, Abdulmalik Esmael, Bashir Ungab, Nasser Adil and Ansari Yunos. They allegedly bolted from the BIFF after forming alliances with the Maute armed group and local terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.
The BIFF, which broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front due to differences over the peace talks with the government, has also pledged loyalty to the IS, which is also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
24-hour checkpoint put up in 2 provinces
From the Manila Times (Oct 2): 24-hour checkpoint put up in 2 provinces
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have established a round the clock border checkpoint in the town of Barangay Saliao, Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat to prevent transport of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), unlicensed guns and illegal drugs.
Chief Inspector Bryan Bernardino, Esperanza town police chief, and 1st Lt. Jano Reyes, commanding officer of 57th Infantry Battalion Alpha Company, will lead the inspection of all vehicles on rotation basis on the checkpoint along the Sultan Kudarat-Maguindanao highway.
“This is in response to the directive of the chief of the PNP to conduct 24/7 checkpoint in all strategic areas to prevent transport of improvised bombs and illegal drugs,” Bernardino said, referring to PNP Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
The 24/7 checkpoint also aims to monitor movements of Private Armed Groups (PAGs), criminal groups, guns-for-hire, as as well as terrorist plans of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and kidnap for ransom (KFR) gangs on the border of Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces.
Esperanza is the last town of Sultan Kudarat bordering Maguindanao where suspected bombers, illegal drug pushers and kidnap for ransom gangs originate.
Last Thursday, residents alerted the police about the presence of a bag left unattended in front of a roadside restaurant.
Police bomb experts found no bomb inside the bag.
http://www.manilatimes.net/24-hour-checkpoint-put-up-in-2-provinces/289104/
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have established a round the clock border checkpoint in the town of Barangay Saliao, Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat to prevent transport of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), unlicensed guns and illegal drugs.
Chief Inspector Bryan Bernardino, Esperanza town police chief, and 1st Lt. Jano Reyes, commanding officer of 57th Infantry Battalion Alpha Company, will lead the inspection of all vehicles on rotation basis on the checkpoint along the Sultan Kudarat-Maguindanao highway.
“This is in response to the directive of the chief of the PNP to conduct 24/7 checkpoint in all strategic areas to prevent transport of improvised bombs and illegal drugs,” Bernardino said, referring to PNP Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
The 24/7 checkpoint also aims to monitor movements of Private Armed Groups (PAGs), criminal groups, guns-for-hire, as as well as terrorist plans of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and kidnap for ransom (KFR) gangs on the border of Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces.
Esperanza is the last town of Sultan Kudarat bordering Maguindanao where suspected bombers, illegal drug pushers and kidnap for ransom gangs originate.
Last Thursday, residents alerted the police about the presence of a bag left unattended in front of a roadside restaurant.
Police bomb experts found no bomb inside the bag.
http://www.manilatimes.net/24-hour-checkpoint-put-up-in-2-provinces/289104/
Opinion: Too many AFP chiefs is counterproductive
From the Reveille column by Ramon Farolan in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 3): Too many AFP chiefs is counterproductive
SURIGAO del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel recently revived a bill providing for a fixed 3-year term for the AFP chief of staff. In October 2011 a similar measure was passed by the 15th Congress, but it was vetoed by then President Benigno Aquino III.
In putting forth his proposal, Pimentel said: “Over the last 30 years, the AFP has had 28 chiefs of staff who each served an average of 12 months. In the case of our last 10 chiefs of staff, each actually served an average of only seven months. The quick turnover of AFP chiefs has become counterproductive—even somewhat disruptive.”
Retired general Joel Hinlo, in a letter to the editor last Sept. 27, expressed the view that “Aside from being disruptive, the present setup is very expensive. Imagine retiring seven 4-star generals in a span of four years.” This affects tremendously the AFP pension system that is now facing serious scrutiny in view of the heavy burden it imposes on the military budget.
For almost a decade now, I have been speaking out about the importance and the need for a fixed term not only for the AFP chief of staff but also for the major service commanders, meaning, the Army, Air Force and the Navy. Most modern military organizations follow this principle. In this part of the world, only the Philippines has a military leader who can say “Hello,” and “Farewell” to the troops within a one-year period. In fact, the present AFP chief, Gen. Ricardo Visaya, bids farewell next month after saying “Hello” last July. And according to an AFP spokesperson, we expect the AFP to crush the Abu Sayyaf by December this year.
There are two possible reasons why politicians in our country prefer the revolving-door concept over the fixed term for an AFP chief of staff.
One, they fear the possibility of an individual becoming too powerful by developing a closely knit network within the organization with the ability to counter, if not overthrow, the existing power structure.
Second, they view the position of AFP chief as one of the goodies to be shared by as many of their favorites as possible. And the organization can go to hell as far as they are concerned.
As I have often said in the past, the revolving-door policy on the leadership of key AFP commands has been extremely detrimental to the organization, not only in terms of efficiency and effectiveness but also in terms of promoting and enhancing the professionalism of the officer corps.
The Abu Sayyaf problem is a case in point. If you take a close look at the AFP record against this terrorist group in the last 10 years, you will see that each time the AFP launches an offensive against the group, either to rescue a hostage or to punish the terrorists for some atrocity committed, it is the AFP that suffers substantial casualties in proportion to the enemy force they face.
The latest offensive was no exception. We suffered a large number of dead and wounded. And let us not kid ourselves, some hostages were released not because of the pressure exerted by the AFP operations in the area, but because of the ransom paid by the government or by unidentified sources, as well as the assistance of MNLF leader Nur Misuari. Without the monetary payments and the intervention of Misuari, no hostages would have been released in spite of the presence of so many battalions in Basilan and Sulu.
The military continues to deploy even more soldiers to the south, moving troops from the Bicol region to Mindanao. Do these new arrivals, combat troops, have specialized training for the unfamiliar battlefield conditions they face in Basilan and Sulu? It is not the number of troops involved but the quality of their training, particularly in small unit engagements and the leadership, that would make a difference in the fight against terror.
In this situation, it is important that we have an AFP chief of staff and key commanders who are focused on the problem and are not distracted by thoughts of their coming retirement. What do you think an officer is most concerned about when facing retirement in a few months? Incidentally, when an AFP chief is named, often his classmates move along with him into various key positions; when he retires, everyone is likely to be facing retirement also, or replacement by the new chief. Since the chief is there for a brief period, there is little possibility of continuity or adherence to established plans and programs or policies.
Now, I am not saying that a fixed term for the AFP chief of staff will solve all our problems. But it certainly would be a step in the right direction. As Representative Pimentel said, “If we are to reinforce the military, as the protector and defender of our national territory, we should give its chief operating officer a stable stint to carry out programs and projects with some degree of constancy.”
We thank Pimentel for the concern he has shown for our AFP. It indicates an understanding of the needs of the organization to enable it to serve the nation with integrity and distinction....
http://opinion.inquirer.net/97859/many-afp-chiefs-counterproductive
SURIGAO del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel recently revived a bill providing for a fixed 3-year term for the AFP chief of staff. In October 2011 a similar measure was passed by the 15th Congress, but it was vetoed by then President Benigno Aquino III.
In putting forth his proposal, Pimentel said: “Over the last 30 years, the AFP has had 28 chiefs of staff who each served an average of 12 months. In the case of our last 10 chiefs of staff, each actually served an average of only seven months. The quick turnover of AFP chiefs has become counterproductive—even somewhat disruptive.”
Retired general Joel Hinlo, in a letter to the editor last Sept. 27, expressed the view that “Aside from being disruptive, the present setup is very expensive. Imagine retiring seven 4-star generals in a span of four years.” This affects tremendously the AFP pension system that is now facing serious scrutiny in view of the heavy burden it imposes on the military budget.
For almost a decade now, I have been speaking out about the importance and the need for a fixed term not only for the AFP chief of staff but also for the major service commanders, meaning, the Army, Air Force and the Navy. Most modern military organizations follow this principle. In this part of the world, only the Philippines has a military leader who can say “Hello,” and “Farewell” to the troops within a one-year period. In fact, the present AFP chief, Gen. Ricardo Visaya, bids farewell next month after saying “Hello” last July. And according to an AFP spokesperson, we expect the AFP to crush the Abu Sayyaf by December this year.
There are two possible reasons why politicians in our country prefer the revolving-door concept over the fixed term for an AFP chief of staff.
One, they fear the possibility of an individual becoming too powerful by developing a closely knit network within the organization with the ability to counter, if not overthrow, the existing power structure.
Second, they view the position of AFP chief as one of the goodies to be shared by as many of their favorites as possible. And the organization can go to hell as far as they are concerned.
As I have often said in the past, the revolving-door policy on the leadership of key AFP commands has been extremely detrimental to the organization, not only in terms of efficiency and effectiveness but also in terms of promoting and enhancing the professionalism of the officer corps.
The Abu Sayyaf problem is a case in point. If you take a close look at the AFP record against this terrorist group in the last 10 years, you will see that each time the AFP launches an offensive against the group, either to rescue a hostage or to punish the terrorists for some atrocity committed, it is the AFP that suffers substantial casualties in proportion to the enemy force they face.
The latest offensive was no exception. We suffered a large number of dead and wounded. And let us not kid ourselves, some hostages were released not because of the pressure exerted by the AFP operations in the area, but because of the ransom paid by the government or by unidentified sources, as well as the assistance of MNLF leader Nur Misuari. Without the monetary payments and the intervention of Misuari, no hostages would have been released in spite of the presence of so many battalions in Basilan and Sulu.
The military continues to deploy even more soldiers to the south, moving troops from the Bicol region to Mindanao. Do these new arrivals, combat troops, have specialized training for the unfamiliar battlefield conditions they face in Basilan and Sulu? It is not the number of troops involved but the quality of their training, particularly in small unit engagements and the leadership, that would make a difference in the fight against terror.
In this situation, it is important that we have an AFP chief of staff and key commanders who are focused on the problem and are not distracted by thoughts of their coming retirement. What do you think an officer is most concerned about when facing retirement in a few months? Incidentally, when an AFP chief is named, often his classmates move along with him into various key positions; when he retires, everyone is likely to be facing retirement also, or replacement by the new chief. Since the chief is there for a brief period, there is little possibility of continuity or adherence to established plans and programs or policies.
Now, I am not saying that a fixed term for the AFP chief of staff will solve all our problems. But it certainly would be a step in the right direction. As Representative Pimentel said, “If we are to reinforce the military, as the protector and defender of our national territory, we should give its chief operating officer a stable stint to carry out programs and projects with some degree of constancy.”
We thank Pimentel for the concern he has shown for our AFP. It indicates an understanding of the needs of the organization to enable it to serve the nation with integrity and distinction....
http://opinion.inquirer.net/97859/many-afp-chiefs-counterproductive
Aetas in Capas under siege, says solon
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 1): Aetas in Capas under siege, says solon
Capas, Tarlac — Hundreds of Aeta families allegedly being initimidated by a military unit to force them to leave their communities here have sought the help of President Duterte to stop the harassment.
Tarlac Rep. Noel Villanueva said Duterte’s intervention is seen by indigenous people of Tarlac as a last resort in addressing their “grim plight.”
Villanueva also called the attention of Congress and the Department of National Defense to put an end to the harassment of the helpless Aeta families as they defend their historic right to their lands that are situated in several barangays that are within the military reservation covered by the Clark Air Base land formerly run by the US military.
Villanueva lamented that his call for a congressional investigation of the plight of the Aeta people which is embodied in House Resolution 1896 has remained unacted upon in the Lower House.
“A military outpost manned by the Philippine AirForce and positioined between Barangays Patling and Sta. Juliana has been preventing, since 2014, the ingress of construction materials to be used for house repairs and the egress of forest and agricultural products to be sold by the Aetas in the barangay centers for their daily subsistence,” Villanueva disclosed as he raised the issue during the recent. plenary budget deliberatioin for the Department of Defense.
He added: “These restrictions have deprived the Aetas of their main source of livelihood and prevented them from repairing houses that were destroyed by several typhoons that hit their villages.”
The Aetas have petitioned for the grant of a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) over an estimated land area of 11,445 hectares in Barangays Anupul, Bamban, Sta. Juliana, Patling, and Maruglu, all in Capas.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has passed the CADT on first reading during an en banc session last year.
Included in the area is the Crow Valley Gunnery Range which the AFP intends to develop into an international gunnery range.
Villanueva said the CVGR Development Plan “will surely cause massive dislocation of Aeta and non-Aeta residents in the affected barangays.”
“So far the AFP has not presented to the affected communities their plan to compensate and relocate them in communities where they can continue with their normal lives and means of livelihood,” said Villanueva.
“I hope President Duterte will take a close look at the plight of the downtrodden Aeta IP, and move towards the recognition of their historic rights to their land, so that they may forever live undistrubed on these lands that their forefathers have nurtured,” the senior administration lawmaker said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/aetas-in-capas-under-siege-says-solon/
Tarlac Rep. Noel Villanueva said Duterte’s intervention is seen by indigenous people of Tarlac as a last resort in addressing their “grim plight.”
Villanueva also called the attention of Congress and the Department of National Defense to put an end to the harassment of the helpless Aeta families as they defend their historic right to their lands that are situated in several barangays that are within the military reservation covered by the Clark Air Base land formerly run by the US military.
Villanueva lamented that his call for a congressional investigation of the plight of the Aeta people which is embodied in House Resolution 1896 has remained unacted upon in the Lower House.
“A military outpost manned by the Philippine AirForce and positioined between Barangays Patling and Sta. Juliana has been preventing, since 2014, the ingress of construction materials to be used for house repairs and the egress of forest and agricultural products to be sold by the Aetas in the barangay centers for their daily subsistence,” Villanueva disclosed as he raised the issue during the recent. plenary budget deliberatioin for the Department of Defense.
He added: “These restrictions have deprived the Aetas of their main source of livelihood and prevented them from repairing houses that were destroyed by several typhoons that hit their villages.”
The Aetas have petitioned for the grant of a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) over an estimated land area of 11,445 hectares in Barangays Anupul, Bamban, Sta. Juliana, Patling, and Maruglu, all in Capas.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has passed the CADT on first reading during an en banc session last year.
Included in the area is the Crow Valley Gunnery Range which the AFP intends to develop into an international gunnery range.
Villanueva said the CVGR Development Plan “will surely cause massive dislocation of Aeta and non-Aeta residents in the affected barangays.”
“So far the AFP has not presented to the affected communities their plan to compensate and relocate them in communities where they can continue with their normal lives and means of livelihood,” said Villanueva.
“I hope President Duterte will take a close look at the plight of the downtrodden Aeta IP, and move towards the recognition of their historic rights to their land, so that they may forever live undistrubed on these lands that their forefathers have nurtured,” the senior administration lawmaker said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/aetas-in-capas-under-siege-says-solon/
Communist Party honors Miriam
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 1): Communist Party honors Miriam
http://www.mb.com.ph/communist-party-honors-miriam/
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) yesterday joined the thousands of personalities and groups which have paid tribute to the late Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago.
In a statement, the CPP said Defensor-Santiago was an ally in the party’s rejection of agreements entered into by previous Philippine governments with foreign countries, such as the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
“Although she approached the matter from her advocacy of constitutionalism, one can gleam a deep sense of patriotism and a profound loathing for the presence of foreign troops on Philippine soil,” the CPP said.
The leftist group, which is currently in the thick of promising peace negotiations with the Philippine government, underscored that the death of Defensor-Santiago “comes at a most unfortunate point in history when the Filipino people’s struggle against the presence of US military troops is at a juncture as the Duterte regime has made a stand to promote an independent foreign policy and oppose US war exercises in the country, a radical shift from seven dacades of servility to US interests.”
“The Filipino people will remember Sen. Santiago for her crusade against corruption. She enjoyed broad support among the people and youth because of her rejection of the rotten politics that pervade the ruling system in the Philippines. She was among the prime legalist in the country,” the party added.
“She would have been a formidable friend in this fight,” CPP emphasized.
http://www.mb.com.ph/communist-party-honors-miriam/
MILF political party gears for participation in polls
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 2): MILF political party gears for participation in polls
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leadership convened its political party, the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), on Saturday in preparation for its maiden participation in electoral processes under the Duterte administration and beyond, the Bulletin learned yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/milf-political-party-gears-for-participation-in-polls/
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leadership convened its political party, the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), on Saturday in preparation for its maiden participation in electoral processes under the Duterte administration and beyond, the Bulletin learned yesterday.
MILF Chair Hadji Murad Ebrahim presided over the first-ever general meeting of the UBJP with 300 national, regional, provincial, and municipal party officials and members at the MILF’s Camp Darapanan headquarters in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo said.
The UBJP was formed two years ago as MILF’s official political party, and has been registered with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) since October 2015.
Sinarimbo said Murad urged the UBJP officials and members to continue strengthening the party’s mass base at the barangay level to ensure its substantial clout when the time comes for the party to field candidates in “local electoral exercises.”
But it was agreed at the meeting that the UBJP participation in government-sponsored polls will happen only after the proposed Bangsamoro Juridical Entity (BJE) shall have been officially established functionally, he said.
The BJE has been envisaged in the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by the MILF and government peace panels in March, 2014.
It was designed to replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which the Aquino government had deemed as a “failed experiment” or “failed autonomy.”
It was supposed to be established upon the passage in Congress of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) within the timeline set by the Aquino administration between January and March, 2015.
But the plan was overtaken by the January 25, 2015 bloody clash in Mamasapano, Maguindanao that left 44 terrorist-hunting police commandos killed alongside more than 20 MILF cadres and civilian residents. The public outrage over the incident forced the 16th Congress to revise the BBL substantially, and eventually shelve it.
Sinarimbo, a former executive secretary of ARMM, said the MILF leadership and its political party renewed during Saturday’s meeting their support to President Duterte’s commitment to implement all peace accords forged by the government with the MILF and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
He said the MILF leadership was “open” to the move of the Duterte government to craft and adopt an “Inclusive” BBL that encompasses the aspirations of the MILF, the MNLF and other concerned sectors.
http://www.mb.com.ph/milf-political-party-gears-for-participation-in-polls/
Catholic schools oppose mandatory ROTC
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 2): Catholic schools oppose mandatory ROTC
http://www.mb.com.ph/catholic-schools-oppose-mandatory-rotc/
Officials of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) are against the plan of President Rodrigo Duterte to make the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) mandatory for college students.
Bro. Narciso Erguiza, CEAP president, said they will submit a position paper on their stand.
Erguiza said making the ROTC mandatory was not the solution to prepare for war.
He said it was counter-productive since not all men and women were meant to be reserved officers.
He said ROTC became optional after some students died due to hazing.
Erguiza said the National Service Training Program (NSTP) was a far better alternative to the ROTC, preparing students in awareness for national defense purposes.
He also called on Congress to amend Republic Act 9163, also known as the NSTP Act of 2001, to make ROTC will be an option students can choose from.
In his State of the Nation Address last July, Duterte called for the strengthening of the ROTC so the youth can practice “love of country and good citizenship.”
ROTC became optional in 2001 following the death of University of Sto. Tomas (UST) student Mark Welson Chua.
Chua was killed by his superior officers after he exposed alleged irregularities in UST’s ROTC program.
Chua’s death became the catalyst for the passage of RA 9163.
http://www.mb.com.ph/catholic-schools-oppose-mandatory-rotc/
Duterte eyes review of EDCA
From Malaya Business Insight (Oct 3): Duterte eyes review of EDCA
PRESIDENT Duterte yesterday said he might be forced to ask American soldiers to leave the country “altogether” entirely as he ordered a review of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The President made the statement during the opening of the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City as he lashed out at critics, including the United States, for alleging his administration is sanctioning extrajudicial killings and human rights violations being linked to his campaign against illegal drugs.
He also answered those who warned that some American businesses might pull out investments and shrugged off threats the withdrawal could affect the economy.
Duterte reiterated that he is not concerned if the US, a long-time ally and strategic partner of the Philippines, would withdraw support for the Philippines. He also said Filipinos will not grow hungry even if some American investors pull out. He said he is opening another front in foreign policy, reiterating he is looking to establish alliances with countries like Russia and China.
“May I remind the Americans itong EDCA, it is an official document, but it’s only signed by an aide and si (former Defense Secretary Voltaire) Gazmin. It does not bear the signature of the president of the Republic of the Philippines, (Benigno Aquino III). Walang pirma si Aquino. Better think twice now because I’ll be asking you to leave the Philippines altogether,” he said.
“Hindi kami magugutom. We will get out and after review of that document and if I find that there is no signature, if you cannot produce a signature bearing the permit to you, mag-conduct conduct kayo rito ng ano, pati ‘yang war games,” he said.
The EDCA was signed on April 28, 2014 by Gazmin and US Ambassador Philip Goldberg, hours before US President Barack Obama arrived for a two-day state visit. The 10-year agreement establishes a framework for increased US military presence in the Philippines, as part of a “rebalancing” of US resources toward the Asia-Pacific region.
Aquino has explained that the EDCA is just an addition to earlier agreements like the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). In January this year, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the EDCA as it said it the executive agreement does not need the concurrence of the Senate. The SC said the EDCA is an “implementation of a previous treaty,” referring to the VFA which was ratified by the Senate in 1999.
Duterte, on those warning about the effects on the economy of a possible pullout of US businesses, said, “Sabihin mo dollar namin kunin niyo, e di kunin niyo,” he said.
Duterte had earlier said that he expects war games between the Philippines and the US soldiers this month to be the last.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/duterte-eyes-review-edca
PRESIDENT Duterte yesterday said he might be forced to ask American soldiers to leave the country “altogether” entirely as he ordered a review of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The President made the statement during the opening of the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City as he lashed out at critics, including the United States, for alleging his administration is sanctioning extrajudicial killings and human rights violations being linked to his campaign against illegal drugs.
He also answered those who warned that some American businesses might pull out investments and shrugged off threats the withdrawal could affect the economy.
Duterte reiterated that he is not concerned if the US, a long-time ally and strategic partner of the Philippines, would withdraw support for the Philippines. He also said Filipinos will not grow hungry even if some American investors pull out. He said he is opening another front in foreign policy, reiterating he is looking to establish alliances with countries like Russia and China.
“May I remind the Americans itong EDCA, it is an official document, but it’s only signed by an aide and si (former Defense Secretary Voltaire) Gazmin. It does not bear the signature of the president of the Republic of the Philippines, (Benigno Aquino III). Walang pirma si Aquino. Better think twice now because I’ll be asking you to leave the Philippines altogether,” he said.
“Hindi kami magugutom. We will get out and after review of that document and if I find that there is no signature, if you cannot produce a signature bearing the permit to you, mag-conduct conduct kayo rito ng ano, pati ‘yang war games,” he said.
The EDCA was signed on April 28, 2014 by Gazmin and US Ambassador Philip Goldberg, hours before US President Barack Obama arrived for a two-day state visit. The 10-year agreement establishes a framework for increased US military presence in the Philippines, as part of a “rebalancing” of US resources toward the Asia-Pacific region.
Aquino has explained that the EDCA is just an addition to earlier agreements like the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). In January this year, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the EDCA as it said it the executive agreement does not need the concurrence of the Senate. The SC said the EDCA is an “implementation of a previous treaty,” referring to the VFA which was ratified by the Senate in 1999.
Duterte, on those warning about the effects on the economy of a possible pullout of US businesses, said, “Sabihin mo dollar namin kunin niyo, e di kunin niyo,” he said.
Duterte had earlier said that he expects war games between the Philippines and the US soldiers this month to be the last.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/duterte-eyes-review-edca
Rebel returnee killed at military camp
From the Philippine Star (Oct 2): Rebel returnee killed at military camp
A former rebel was killed in an alleged shootout with soldiers at the 31st Infantry Battalion (IB) camp in Barangay Rangas in Juban, Sorsogon on Friday.
Initial investigation showed Rene Sambajon, 40, a resident of Barangay Tabe in Gubat town, barged into the barracks of Cpl. David Soriano, Cpl. Lemuel Banta and Pfc. German Fernandez, who were sleeping, and took their guns and ammunition.
Sambajon reportedly fired at Pfc. Reyniel Mesias, the barracks sentinel, as he escaped, prompting SSgt. Marcial Sandoval, who also saw the former rebel, to open fire.
The service firearms of Mesias and Sandoval were turned over to police investigators.
”We are conducting a separate investigation in coordination with the police,” Capt. Joash Pramis, 9th Division public information officer, said yesterday.
Pramis said Lt. Col. Randy Espino, 31st IB commanding officer, is cooperating with police probers.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/10/02/1629449/rebel-returnee-killed-military-camp
A former rebel was killed in an alleged shootout with soldiers at the 31st Infantry Battalion (IB) camp in Barangay Rangas in Juban, Sorsogon on Friday.
Initial investigation showed Rene Sambajon, 40, a resident of Barangay Tabe in Gubat town, barged into the barracks of Cpl. David Soriano, Cpl. Lemuel Banta and Pfc. German Fernandez, who were sleeping, and took their guns and ammunition.
Sambajon reportedly fired at Pfc. Reyniel Mesias, the barracks sentinel, as he escaped, prompting SSgt. Marcial Sandoval, who also saw the former rebel, to open fire.
The service firearms of Mesias and Sandoval were turned over to police investigators.
”We are conducting a separate investigation in coordination with the police,” Capt. Joash Pramis, 9th Division public information officer, said yesterday.
Pramis said Lt. Col. Randy Espino, 31st IB commanding officer, is cooperating with police probers.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/10/02/1629449/rebel-returnee-killed-military-camp
NDRRMC: Troop movements to Sulu won't hamper disaster response
From Rappler (Oct 2): NDRRMC: Troop movements to Sulu won't hamper disaster response
Disaster management chief Ricardo Jalad says other agencies are ready to assist in disaster response efforts to allow the military to perform its internal security operations
DISASTER RESPONSE. NDRRMC Executive Director Ricardo Jalad says various units are prepared to handle disasters. File photo from Office of Civil Defense
Disaster management chief Ricardo Jalad allayed concerns about the country's readiness for upcoming typhoons because of movements of troops and assets from typhoon-prone areas to Sulu, where the military has intensified operations against terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.
"Other agencies are ready to take the role [of disaster response]," Jalad, executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), told Rappler in a text message on Sunday, October 2.
"The Philippine National Police has the manpower and transportation assets. The Coast Guard has patrol craft which can be used for disaster response," Jalad added.
Akbayan Representative Tom Villarin raised the concern during plenary debates on the budget of the Department of National Defense (DND), which supervises the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Villarin said it is crucial to preposition troops and assets in disaster-prone areas, highlighting that this was the lesson from Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which flattened communities in central Philippines and killed at least 6,000 people in 2013.
President Rodrigo Duterte vowed to destroy the Abu Sayyaf after the loose network of militants perpetrated a series of beheadings.
Peace talks with communist rebels allowed the AFP to reduce military presence in traditional areas of the New People's Army, including typhoon-prone provinces in the country's eastern border, to augment troops in Sulu.
Jalad said the AFP is only one of the agencies tasked to respond to disasters, noting the role of local government units as well as civilian volunteers and organizations. (READ: New NDRRMC chief: Disaster preparedness everybody's responsibility)
"Disaster response is not an issue to hinder AFP from performing its current ISO (Internal Security Operation) mission which is their primary task anyway," said Jalad.
"We are slowly departing from too much reliance on military assets for disaster response," he added.
Thousands of troops were deployed to Sulu in the southern Philippines as the new AFP chief vowed to "decimate" the Abu Sayyaf before he steps down in December.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/147973-ndrrmc-troop-movements-typhoon-prone-areas-to-sulu-disaster-response
Disaster management chief Ricardo Jalad says other agencies are ready to assist in disaster response efforts to allow the military to perform its internal security operations
DISASTER RESPONSE. NDRRMC Executive Director Ricardo Jalad says various units are prepared to handle disasters. File photo from Office of Civil Defense
Disaster management chief Ricardo Jalad allayed concerns about the country's readiness for upcoming typhoons because of movements of troops and assets from typhoon-prone areas to Sulu, where the military has intensified operations against terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.
"Other agencies are ready to take the role [of disaster response]," Jalad, executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), told Rappler in a text message on Sunday, October 2.
"The Philippine National Police has the manpower and transportation assets. The Coast Guard has patrol craft which can be used for disaster response," Jalad added.
Akbayan Representative Tom Villarin raised the concern during plenary debates on the budget of the Department of National Defense (DND), which supervises the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Villarin said it is crucial to preposition troops and assets in disaster-prone areas, highlighting that this was the lesson from Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which flattened communities in central Philippines and killed at least 6,000 people in 2013.
President Rodrigo Duterte vowed to destroy the Abu Sayyaf after the loose network of militants perpetrated a series of beheadings.
Peace talks with communist rebels allowed the AFP to reduce military presence in traditional areas of the New People's Army, including typhoon-prone provinces in the country's eastern border, to augment troops in Sulu.
Jalad said the AFP is only one of the agencies tasked to respond to disasters, noting the role of local government units as well as civilian volunteers and organizations. (READ: New NDRRMC chief: Disaster preparedness everybody's responsibility)
"Disaster response is not an issue to hinder AFP from performing its current ISO (Internal Security Operation) mission which is their primary task anyway," said Jalad.
"We are slowly departing from too much reliance on military assets for disaster response," he added.
Thousands of troops were deployed to Sulu in the southern Philippines as the new AFP chief vowed to "decimate" the Abu Sayyaf before he steps down in December.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/147973-ndrrmc-troop-movements-typhoon-prone-areas-to-sulu-disaster-response
Duterte hints at move to cancel EDCA, saying it's 'not signed by the President'
From InterAksyon (Oct 2): Duterte hints at move to cancel EDCA, saying it's 'not signed by the President'
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday issued a qualified apology to Jews for his remarks about Hitler, but continued to lash out at Western critics and warned he was willing to kick all American troops out of the Philippines.
"The Americans, I don't like them.... they are reprimanding me in public. So I say: 'Screw you, fuck you, everything else. You are stupid'," he said.
Duterte threatened to cancel a defense accord with the United States, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), that went into force in January.
That agreement, sealed under the administration of Duterte's predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, allows US forces access to five Philippine bases to help counterbalance a growing Chinese presence in the South China Sea.
"This EDCA is an official document... but it does not bear the signature of the president of the republic," Duterte said.
"Better think twice now because I will be asking you to leave the Philippines altogether."
The United States and the Philippines are longtime allies bound by the 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty.
Duterte has in recent days repeatedly threatened to move away from the United States and forge closer ties with China and Russia.
Last week he revealed he had talked to Russian Premier Dmitry Medvedev, to whom he said he was about to "cross the Rubicon" in relations with the US, and that he would be looking to Russia for support.
He said earlier he wanted the US Special Forces out of Mindanao; then more recently said the joint exercises called Phiblex between Philippine and US troops, which starts Oct. 4, will be the last.
Duterte on Sunday also hit out at the Europeans, saying: "These stupid lawyers in the EU... well, screw you. I will kick you."
He had chafed on several occasions at what he described as the instinctive recourse of critics from the EU, US, UN and human rights groups to blame him, his war on drugs and the Philippine police force for all killings that are "under investigation" and cannot be ascribed outright to any group, as he continues his tough war on drugs. All these deaths - accounting for more than half of the 3,000-plus deaths since the campaign against drugs was launched July 1 - are being automatically tagged as "extrajudicial killings." The rest are being owned by the PNP as part of legitimate operations.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132955/duterte-hints-at-move-to-cancel-edca-saying-its-not-signed-by-the-president
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday issued a qualified apology to Jews for his remarks about Hitler, but continued to lash out at Western critics and warned he was willing to kick all American troops out of the Philippines.
"The Americans, I don't like them.... they are reprimanding me in public. So I say: 'Screw you, fuck you, everything else. You are stupid'," he said.
Duterte threatened to cancel a defense accord with the United States, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), that went into force in January.
That agreement, sealed under the administration of Duterte's predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, allows US forces access to five Philippine bases to help counterbalance a growing Chinese presence in the South China Sea.
"This EDCA is an official document... but it does not bear the signature of the president of the republic," Duterte said.
"Better think twice now because I will be asking you to leave the Philippines altogether."
The United States and the Philippines are longtime allies bound by the 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty.
Duterte has in recent days repeatedly threatened to move away from the United States and forge closer ties with China and Russia.
Last week he revealed he had talked to Russian Premier Dmitry Medvedev, to whom he said he was about to "cross the Rubicon" in relations with the US, and that he would be looking to Russia for support.
He said earlier he wanted the US Special Forces out of Mindanao; then more recently said the joint exercises called Phiblex between Philippine and US troops, which starts Oct. 4, will be the last.
Duterte on Sunday also hit out at the Europeans, saying: "These stupid lawyers in the EU... well, screw you. I will kick you."
He had chafed on several occasions at what he described as the instinctive recourse of critics from the EU, US, UN and human rights groups to blame him, his war on drugs and the Philippine police force for all killings that are "under investigation" and cannot be ascribed outright to any group, as he continues his tough war on drugs. All these deaths - accounting for more than half of the 3,000-plus deaths since the campaign against drugs was launched July 1 - are being automatically tagged as "extrajudicial killings." The rest are being owned by the PNP as part of legitimate operations.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132955/duterte-hints-at-move-to-cancel-edca-saying-its-not-signed-by-the-president
Soldiers hold “one-stop-shop” humanitarian assistance in northern Aurora town
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): Soldiers hold “one-stop-shop” humanitarian assistance in northern Aurora town
In consonance with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or ‘Bayanihan’ campaign, the 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion, Philippine Army conducted Saturday one-stop-shop humanitarian assistance that benefitted hundreds of residents in the remote areas in northern Aurora town.
Lt. Col. Louie DS. Villanueva, 56 IB commander, said in a cellphone interview that he called the program “one-stop-shop” because series of activities were conducted such as grand pulong-pulong (dialogue) ,medical and dental mission, feeding program, free hair cut services and tree planting activities in northern Aurora town.
Villanueva said that the Philippine Army, together with Col. Abraham Claro C. Casis, commander of 703rd Brigade, barangay officials and Casiguran Mayor Ricardo A. Bitong, are always ready to work for humanitarian assistance to promote peace and development in this province.
"We conducted grand pulong-pulong, medical/dental mission, feeding program, tree planting activity and free haircut services to the civilian populace of barangays San Ildefonso, Cozo and Culat in Casiguran town,” Villanueva said, pointing out that as the catalyst of the government it is their duty to bring the government closer to the community.
He added that they took the initiatives to maintain the health and well-being of the people and also in protecting the nature.
Villanueva also said that the series of dialogues seeks to enhance the residents’ awareness on AFP's role on peace, security and development in their respective barangays.
It also included the identification of problems and solving it with the help of the government agencies concerned.
The dialogue included the services and programs offered by various government agencies in building up community livelihood programs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=928090
In consonance with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or ‘Bayanihan’ campaign, the 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion, Philippine Army conducted Saturday one-stop-shop humanitarian assistance that benefitted hundreds of residents in the remote areas in northern Aurora town.
Lt. Col. Louie DS. Villanueva, 56 IB commander, said in a cellphone interview that he called the program “one-stop-shop” because series of activities were conducted such as grand pulong-pulong (dialogue) ,medical and dental mission, feeding program, free hair cut services and tree planting activities in northern Aurora town.
Villanueva said that the Philippine Army, together with Col. Abraham Claro C. Casis, commander of 703rd Brigade, barangay officials and Casiguran Mayor Ricardo A. Bitong, are always ready to work for humanitarian assistance to promote peace and development in this province.
"We conducted grand pulong-pulong, medical/dental mission, feeding program, tree planting activity and free haircut services to the civilian populace of barangays San Ildefonso, Cozo and Culat in Casiguran town,” Villanueva said, pointing out that as the catalyst of the government it is their duty to bring the government closer to the community.
He added that they took the initiatives to maintain the health and well-being of the people and also in protecting the nature.
Villanueva also said that the series of dialogues seeks to enhance the residents’ awareness on AFP's role on peace, security and development in their respective barangays.
It also included the identification of problems and solving it with the help of the government agencies concerned.
The dialogue included the services and programs offered by various government agencies in building up community livelihood programs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=928090
Amid ceasefire, NPA rebels continue extortion activities, Army says
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): Amid ceasefire, NPA rebels continue extortion activities, Army says
The Philippine Army accused the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels of continued extortion activities affecting communities despite the unilateral ceasefire that the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) declared in August this year.
The army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion, in a statement to the media on Saturday, said NPA rebels continue to invite small businessmen and store owners in the upland barangays of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces and demand cash.
The invitations, the army added, were disguised as dialogues but in reality were means to call the attention of businessmen and store owners in said provinces and demand for money.
“They also force selected residents to pay them in exchange of the NPAs tactical defeat during their encounters against government forces last year. The rebels accordingly demand cash from those being invited as payment for not giving financial and material support to the rebels for a long time since these areas had not been visited by them as a result of their tactical debacle,” the army’s 73rd IB said.
The NPAs are also demanding for payment in moves that earlier barangay officials in the area made by declaring them as persona non grata in villages.
The 73rd IB particularly reported of one incident that took place last Sept. 25 in Barangay Datalanggas, Alabel, Sarangani Province where two village councilors identified only by their family names Calibay and Baan were fetched by a certain Arnel Culano, a known NPA sympathizer in the area.
The report said that Culano guided the two barangay councilors towards Sitio Tangis of the same barangay for a dialogue with rebels led by a certain Alias Joey.
The army said both Calibay and Baan were threatened by Alias Joey and forced them to produce PHP25,000 each and an M16 rifle.
The demanded money and gun, the army added, were forms of payment as the NPAs accused both councilors of providing information to government troopers that led to an encounter in February last year, where 12 high-powered firearms were recovered by the army from the rebels, and the killing of Alias Brigol, the acting secretary of guerrilla front 75 and six other rebels.
The two councilors were also accused of supporting the move to declare the NPAs persona non grata in their barangay.
In a separate incident last Sept. 27, another barangay councilor identified as Romeo Mansiguil from Barangay Datal Anggas in Alabel was also abducted by the NPAs led by a certain Alias L3, the 73rd IB said.
The councilor was also released on the same day after he promised to give PHP50,000 within a period of one week.
A store owner identified only as Mr. Ompong from Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental was also invited by the NPAs for a dialogue sometime in the third week of August this year in Sitio Akbual, Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani.
The army said the store owner was prevented by the rebels to go back home unless he could raise PHP20,000. His family only managed to produce PHP12,000 but the rebels released him after days in captivity.
In the midst of the series of extortion activities of the NPAs, the 73rd IB is calling on the rebels to stop their illegal activities.
“We are calling on the rebels in the provinces of Sarangani and Davao Occidental to stop the kidnapping and extortion of the poor residents and elected officials in the area,” Lt. Col. Ronnie Babac, commander of 73rd IB, said in the statement.
Babac added that the continued illegal activities of the NPAs will put in jeopardy the spirit of the unilateral ceasefire declared by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=928132
The Philippine Army accused the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels of continued extortion activities affecting communities despite the unilateral ceasefire that the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) declared in August this year.
The army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion, in a statement to the media on Saturday, said NPA rebels continue to invite small businessmen and store owners in the upland barangays of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces and demand cash.
The invitations, the army added, were disguised as dialogues but in reality were means to call the attention of businessmen and store owners in said provinces and demand for money.
“They also force selected residents to pay them in exchange of the NPAs tactical defeat during their encounters against government forces last year. The rebels accordingly demand cash from those being invited as payment for not giving financial and material support to the rebels for a long time since these areas had not been visited by them as a result of their tactical debacle,” the army’s 73rd IB said.
The NPAs are also demanding for payment in moves that earlier barangay officials in the area made by declaring them as persona non grata in villages.
The 73rd IB particularly reported of one incident that took place last Sept. 25 in Barangay Datalanggas, Alabel, Sarangani Province where two village councilors identified only by their family names Calibay and Baan were fetched by a certain Arnel Culano, a known NPA sympathizer in the area.
The report said that Culano guided the two barangay councilors towards Sitio Tangis of the same barangay for a dialogue with rebels led by a certain Alias Joey.
The army said both Calibay and Baan were threatened by Alias Joey and forced them to produce PHP25,000 each and an M16 rifle.
The demanded money and gun, the army added, were forms of payment as the NPAs accused both councilors of providing information to government troopers that led to an encounter in February last year, where 12 high-powered firearms were recovered by the army from the rebels, and the killing of Alias Brigol, the acting secretary of guerrilla front 75 and six other rebels.
The two councilors were also accused of supporting the move to declare the NPAs persona non grata in their barangay.
In a separate incident last Sept. 27, another barangay councilor identified as Romeo Mansiguil from Barangay Datal Anggas in Alabel was also abducted by the NPAs led by a certain Alias L3, the 73rd IB said.
The councilor was also released on the same day after he promised to give PHP50,000 within a period of one week.
A store owner identified only as Mr. Ompong from Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental was also invited by the NPAs for a dialogue sometime in the third week of August this year in Sitio Akbual, Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani.
The army said the store owner was prevented by the rebels to go back home unless he could raise PHP20,000. His family only managed to produce PHP12,000 but the rebels released him after days in captivity.
In the midst of the series of extortion activities of the NPAs, the 73rd IB is calling on the rebels to stop their illegal activities.
“We are calling on the rebels in the provinces of Sarangani and Davao Occidental to stop the kidnapping and extortion of the poor residents and elected officials in the area,” Lt. Col. Ronnie Babac, commander of 73rd IB, said in the statement.
Babac added that the continued illegal activities of the NPAs will put in jeopardy the spirit of the unilateral ceasefire declared by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=928132
MILF: Moro people urged to support the proposed enabling law for Bangsamoro
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Oct 2): Moro people urged to support the proposed enabling law for Bangsamoro
A Maguindanaon Datu urged the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), members of the royal houses, civil society organization and other Muslim sectoral leaders to support the proposed enabling law that will provide for the establishment of autonomous Bangsamoro government.
“Like if we travel altogether, we need to sit in a carriage pulled by buffalo rather than we walk ahead of that animal,” Datu Ansar Kudanding of Sugoda Buayan Royal House told fellow participants in a consultation.
Kudanding was one of the attendees during the Provincial Bangsamoro CSO’s and Sectoral Leaders Consultation on Bangsamoro Unity and Solidarity held in General Santos City on Tuesday (Sept 27).
He urged the Moro people regardless of affiliations to support the undertaking by the MILF with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) on the Bangsamoro Peace Process under the Duterte Administration.
The delegations of local Moro leaders coming from the provinces of Sarnagani, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and General Santos City were oriented in the consultation on the two tracts of the Bangsamoro peace process namely the crafting of Bangsamoro law enhanced by the 1996 GPH-MNLF peace accord and charter change towards federalism.
The consultation was spearheaded by the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS).
CBCS Chair Guiamel M. Alim stressed the importance of unity among the Moro people and help the peace process to succeed.
He warned there are road blocks or challenges along the Bangsamoro peace road map, thus there must be more efforts to let the public know the importance of the peace process in order to draw massive support.
The MILF leadership mulls the passage of an enabling law compliant with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that was signed in 2014.
The CAB provides the passage of the BBL that will lay down the foundation of a Bangsamoro government with genuine autonomy.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/21-southern-mindanao/901-moro-people-urged-to-support-the-proposed-enabling-law-for-bangsamoro
A Maguindanaon Datu urged the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), members of the royal houses, civil society organization and other Muslim sectoral leaders to support the proposed enabling law that will provide for the establishment of autonomous Bangsamoro government.
Kudanding was one of the attendees during the Provincial Bangsamoro CSO’s and Sectoral Leaders Consultation on Bangsamoro Unity and Solidarity held in General Santos City on Tuesday (Sept 27).
He urged the Moro people regardless of affiliations to support the undertaking by the MILF with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) on the Bangsamoro Peace Process under the Duterte Administration.
The delegations of local Moro leaders coming from the provinces of Sarnagani, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and General Santos City were oriented in the consultation on the two tracts of the Bangsamoro peace process namely the crafting of Bangsamoro law enhanced by the 1996 GPH-MNLF peace accord and charter change towards federalism.
The consultation was spearheaded by the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS).
CBCS Chair Guiamel M. Alim stressed the importance of unity among the Moro people and help the peace process to succeed.
He warned there are road blocks or challenges along the Bangsamoro peace road map, thus there must be more efforts to let the public know the importance of the peace process in order to draw massive support.
The MILF leadership mulls the passage of an enabling law compliant with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that was signed in 2014.
The CAB provides the passage of the BBL that will lay down the foundation of a Bangsamoro government with genuine autonomy.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/21-southern-mindanao/901-moro-people-urged-to-support-the-proposed-enabling-law-for-bangsamoro
NDF: Joma: Land reform, national industrialization “center of gravity” of peace talks
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Oct 1): Joma: Land reform, national industrialization “center of gravity” of peace talks
National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Chief Political Consultant Professor Jose Ma. Sison described land reform and national industrialization as the “center of gravity” of the peace negotiations between the NDFP and the Manila government.
The second round of GRP-NDFP peace negotiations is set to resume in Oslo, Norway from October 6 – 10, 2016 and will start the substantive agenda on social and economic reforms in accordance with the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
“The center of gravity of the peace negotiations is the twin necessity for national industrialization and land reform,” says Sison in a message to the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) which kicked off its “Campaign for Land and Peace.”
Sison said “a self-reliant program for economic development cannot walk and advance without two legs: national industrialization and land reform.
“Land reform is needed to produce a definite and wealthy source of food, raw materials for industry, and a broad market for industrial and agricultural products. National industrialization is needed to produce machines and other equipment for agriculture, create numerous and new jobs for the increasing population and destination of surplus agricultural produce,” says Sison.
He criticized as “fake and complete failure” the previous land reform program because farmers are incapable of paying the high redistribution price imposed through the collusion between landlords and the government.
“It should be popularized that lands grabbed from landless farmers by big landlords, high bureaucrats and foreign corporations will be distributed for free,” he said.
The NDFP Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms (NDF-RWC-SER) said “the free distribution of lands is anchored from the principle of social justice.”
“Farmers have long paid for the lands through high land rent and usurious schemes to big landlords who have enriched themselves for decades of illegal control and monopoly, and to the government’s unjust collection of taxes and amortization,” NDF-RWC-SER member Rafael Baylosis said.
“I think through the peace process, all the issues and things to be done by the GRP, NDFP, peasant organizations and broad masses will become clearer in framing and implementing a genuine land reform program,” Sison said. #
Reference:
NDFP International Information Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/joma-land-reform-national-industrialization-center-gravity-peace-talks/
National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Chief Political Consultant Professor Jose Ma. Sison described land reform and national industrialization as the “center of gravity” of the peace negotiations between the NDFP and the Manila government.
The second round of GRP-NDFP peace negotiations is set to resume in Oslo, Norway from October 6 – 10, 2016 and will start the substantive agenda on social and economic reforms in accordance with the framework agreement set by The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992.
“The center of gravity of the peace negotiations is the twin necessity for national industrialization and land reform,” says Sison in a message to the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) which kicked off its “Campaign for Land and Peace.”
Sison said “a self-reliant program for economic development cannot walk and advance without two legs: national industrialization and land reform.
Photo NDFP
He criticized as “fake and complete failure” the previous land reform program because farmers are incapable of paying the high redistribution price imposed through the collusion between landlords and the government.
“It should be popularized that lands grabbed from landless farmers by big landlords, high bureaucrats and foreign corporations will be distributed for free,” he said.
The NDFP Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms (NDF-RWC-SER) said “the free distribution of lands is anchored from the principle of social justice.”
“Farmers have long paid for the lands through high land rent and usurious schemes to big landlords who have enriched themselves for decades of illegal control and monopoly, and to the government’s unjust collection of taxes and amortization,” NDF-RWC-SER member Rafael Baylosis said.
“I think through the peace process, all the issues and things to be done by the GRP, NDFP, peasant organizations and broad masses will become clearer in framing and implementing a genuine land reform program,” Sison said. #
Reference:
NDFP International Information Office
0031302310431
http://www.ndfp.org/joma-land-reform-national-industrialization-center-gravity-peace-talks/