From The Diplomat (Oct 12): Progress in the Philippine Peace Process Under Duterte
The initiative is arguably a silver lining in the president’s controversial tenure thus far.
The second round of the peace talks between the government of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and the communist-led National Democratic Front (NDF) ended with both parties agreeing on the framework and outline of the proposed agreements on socioeconomic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, and the end of hostilities and disposition of forces. The negotiations were conducted in Norway.
The rebels have been waging a Maoist-inspired guerrilla warf in the Philippine countryside since 1969. The peace process started in 1986 after the downfall of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
The peace talks produced some landmark agreements like the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which was signed in 1998. It also facilitated the declaration of brief intermittent ceasefires between government troops and rebels. But overall, the process has failed to end the armed conflict and address the people’s desire for a just and lasting peace.
Since 2011, the peace talks have been suspended. The government under former President Benigno Aquino III wanted to ignore previously signed agreements in order to fast track the negotiations. The military was also confident that it could defeat the rebels in the battlefield. On the part of the NDF, it pressed for the release of more than a dozen of its senior leaders who were arrested by state forces.
The electoral victory of Duterte raised hopes that the peace process can be resumed because the former Davao City mayor enjoyed good relations with both the NDF and its armed wing, the New People’s Army.
The prospect of achieving peace was given a boost by Duterte’s decision to appoint left-leaning leaders in the Cabinet. He also endorsed the release of NDF peace consultants. This paved the way for the formal resumption of the peace negotiations last August.
For the first time since 1986, the government and the NDF declared a separate unilateral ceasefire as a goodwill measure. The NDF also agreed to accelerate the time frame of the peace talks. The second round of the talks was conducted last weekend, coinciding with Duterte’s 100th day in office.
The joint statement signed by both parties contained the following: anagreement on the working outline of Social and Economic Reforms, Political and Constitutional Reforms, and End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces; implementation of activities of the Joint Monitoring Committee of CARHRIHL; possible declaration of a bilateral ceasefire within the month; renewal of the commitment to release more than 400 political prisoners through a general amnesty.
The release of political prisoners has been a longstanding demand of the NDF. If Duterte will approve the amnesty proposal, it will need the concurrence of Congress.
The next round of the peace talks will be held in January 2017.
The challenge for both panels is how to merge their separate draft agreements on the remaining peace agenda. It’s still uncertain whether the government negotiators and rebel leaders can agree on controversial issues such as land reform, national industrialization, and foreign trade. The panels have three months to find a creative compromise solution in order to move forward the peace process.
But there are other factors that contributed to the success of the peace initiative. For example, Duterte’s recent assertion of an independent foreign policy was publicly supported by the NDF. The Communist Party also released a statement about the possibility of entering into a patriotic alliance with the Duterte government if the president will pursue his public pronouncements with concrete measures like the junking of “unequal” defense agreements between the Philippines and the United States.
Duterte’s tirades against the United States are unprecedented in Philippine history. But Duterte became an instant inspiration for those who wanted the Philippines to rethink its close ties with its former colonial master. Deliberate or not, Duterte’s nationalist outburst also enhanced the prospects of achieving peace with communist rebels.
Duterte’s human rights record is an international embarrassment. But if he wants something positive to highlight in his first 100 days in the presidential palace, he can mention the peace process. So far, he has already outperformed his immediate predecessors in terms of achieving a semblance of peace in the Philippines.
http://thediplomat.com/2016/10/progress-in-the-philippine-peace-process-under-duterte/
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
After 2 rounds, 'uncertainties' dampen initial optimism over talks - Reds
From InterAksyon (Oct 12): After 2 rounds, 'uncertainties' dampen initial optimism over talks - Reds
While acknowledging “some progress” after two rounds of formal negotiations with government, communist rebel negotiators said “uncertainties remain that serve to dampen the(ir) initial optimism” over the peace talks.
A statement from the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, which represents the rebels, noted in particular “the snail’s pace” of efforts to secure the release of more than 400 political prisoners around the country.
At the same time, the NDFP also cited reports of continuing military operations despite indefinite unilateral ceasefires declared by both the government and the rebels as both sides work towards forging a bilateral ceasefire to help advance the negotiations, as well as new human rights abuses.
While the NDFP said NPA units “have been maneuvering to avoid armed encounters,” it noted that “tensions are rising because the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) operations appear more and more to be taking the form of base-denial operations” against the rebels’ mass base.
It quoted Madlos as saying that, “from Northern Luzon to Southern Mindanao,” military units allegedly told civilians “that the ceasefire is no longer in effect to justify their operations and presence in their communities,” citing a report from the NPA’s Agustin Begnalen Command in Abra, and also noting the AFP “using the drug campaign as a pretext” to mount operations.
The activist Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas reported that early this month, police in San Juan del Monte, Bulacan raided the homes of farmers embroiled in a land dispute, arresting and detaining seven and eventually holding on to three of them, who were “vilified as members of the New People’s Army and were charged with drug possession.” (http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133197/bulacan-farmers-in-land-dispute-nabbed-in-tokhang-style-ops---kmp)'
The NDFP also cited the death of peasant leader and anti-mining activist Jimmy Saypan, secretary general of the Compostela Valley Farmers Association, who passed away Tuesday, a day after he was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen. (http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133187/compostela-valley-peasant-leader-dies-after-shooting)
Before his death, Saypan was active in the CFA’s campaigns against operations by the Agusan Petroleum Mineral Corp. in 12,000 hectares of lumad lands in the province and in demanding the pullout of military units from communities. The CFA had been tagged a rebel “legal front” by the military.
The rebels warned that “cynicism is now growing among some of the NDFP negotiators and consultants as well as among the remaining political prisoners.”
During the recently ended second round of talks in Oslo, Norway, new NDFP peace panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili questioned why no more political prisoners have been released since August despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge in May to issue an amnesty proclamation.
Thus far, only 22 political prisoners, all of them NDFP consultants, have been freed on bail to allow them to participate in the negotiations.
The NDFP did acknowledge “some progress” in the work of both parties’ reciprocal working committees on the three remaining major agenda of the talks -- social and economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, and end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
Nevertheless, it noted that “a great chasm between the two sides exists in the appreciation of what the NDFP considers the age-old problems of rural landlessness and poverty.”
The next round of talks has been scheduled in the third week of January next year.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133238/after-2-rounds-uncertainties-dampen-initial-optimism-over-talks---reds
While acknowledging “some progress” after two rounds of formal negotiations with government, communist rebel negotiators said “uncertainties remain that serve to dampen the(ir) initial optimism” over the peace talks.
A statement from the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, which represents the rebels, noted in particular “the snail’s pace” of efforts to secure the release of more than 400 political prisoners around the country.
At the same time, the NDFP also cited reports of continuing military operations despite indefinite unilateral ceasefires declared by both the government and the rebels as both sides work towards forging a bilateral ceasefire to help advance the negotiations, as well as new human rights abuses.
While the NDFP said NPA units “have been maneuvering to avoid armed encounters,” it noted that “tensions are rising because the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) operations appear more and more to be taking the form of base-denial operations” against the rebels’ mass base.
It quoted Madlos as saying that, “from Northern Luzon to Southern Mindanao,” military units allegedly told civilians “that the ceasefire is no longer in effect to justify their operations and presence in their communities,” citing a report from the NPA’s Agustin Begnalen Command in Abra, and also noting the AFP “using the drug campaign as a pretext” to mount operations.
The activist Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas reported that early this month, police in San Juan del Monte, Bulacan raided the homes of farmers embroiled in a land dispute, arresting and detaining seven and eventually holding on to three of them, who were “vilified as members of the New People’s Army and were charged with drug possession.” (http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133197/bulacan-farmers-in-land-dispute-nabbed-in-tokhang-style-ops---kmp)'
The NDFP also cited the death of peasant leader and anti-mining activist Jimmy Saypan, secretary general of the Compostela Valley Farmers Association, who passed away Tuesday, a day after he was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen. (http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133187/compostela-valley-peasant-leader-dies-after-shooting)
Before his death, Saypan was active in the CFA’s campaigns against operations by the Agusan Petroleum Mineral Corp. in 12,000 hectares of lumad lands in the province and in demanding the pullout of military units from communities. The CFA had been tagged a rebel “legal front” by the military.
The rebels warned that “cynicism is now growing among some of the NDFP negotiators and consultants as well as among the remaining political prisoners.”
During the recently ended second round of talks in Oslo, Norway, new NDFP peace panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili questioned why no more political prisoners have been released since August despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge in May to issue an amnesty proclamation.
Thus far, only 22 political prisoners, all of them NDFP consultants, have been freed on bail to allow them to participate in the negotiations.
The NDFP did acknowledge “some progress” in the work of both parties’ reciprocal working committees on the three remaining major agenda of the talks -- social and economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, and end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
Nevertheless, it noted that “a great chasm between the two sides exists in the appreciation of what the NDFP considers the age-old problems of rural landlessness and poverty.”
The next round of talks has been scheduled in the third week of January next year.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/133238/after-2-rounds-uncertainties-dampen-initial-optimism-over-talks---reds
Curfew in ESSZone extended to Oct 26
From the Malaysia Sun (Oct 10): Curfew in ESSZone extended to Oct 26
The curfew over the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) which ended today will be extended from tomorrow till Oct 26, between 7pm till 5am.
Sabah Commissioner of Police Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun cautioned residents in the area to stay indoors and refrain from breaking the curfew.
The seven districts involved are Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.
"The extension is necessary to ensure that the waters are not encroached by terrorists that threaten the security of international researchers working in the area and foreign tourists staying at the island resorts," he said in a statement.
He said based on information, Abu Sayyaf terrorists and potential kidnap-for-ransom criminals from southern Philippines were still attempting to cross the border.
Abdul Rashid said the curfew would be continued to safeguard those using the waters as well as residents in ESSZone.
He said the curfew would facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boat movement by security forces and provide an environment of safety for chalet operators and fishermen.
"I have given authority to the district police chiefs in ESSZone to issue permits to those involved in fishery activities and those who need to use the routes in emergency cases," he said.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1997511
The curfew over the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) which ended today will be extended from tomorrow till Oct 26, between 7pm till 5am.
Sabah Commissioner of Police Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun cautioned residents in the area to stay indoors and refrain from breaking the curfew.
The seven districts involved are Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.
"The extension is necessary to ensure that the waters are not encroached by terrorists that threaten the security of international researchers working in the area and foreign tourists staying at the island resorts," he said in a statement.
He said based on information, Abu Sayyaf terrorists and potential kidnap-for-ransom criminals from southern Philippines were still attempting to cross the border.
Abdul Rashid said the curfew would be continued to safeguard those using the waters as well as residents in ESSZone.
He said the curfew would facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boat movement by security forces and provide an environment of safety for chalet operators and fishermen.
"I have given authority to the district police chiefs in ESSZone to issue permits to those involved in fishery activities and those who need to use the routes in emergency cases," he said.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1997511
U.S. ships pack up, leave ahead of scheduled end of war games
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 12): U.S. ships pack up, leave ahead of scheduled end of war games
The joint marine landing maneuvers called Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (Phiblex 33) ended on Monday, although the drills were scheduled to run until Wednesday.
Capt. Ryan Lacuesta, director of the Philippine Marine Corps Public Affairs Office, said the major drills were completed on Monday.
The last round of the war games, including a combined live fire exercise, was held at Crow Valley in Tarlac province.
The exercises involved 500 Filipino soldiers and 1,400 American troops.
The USNS Fall River and the USS Green Bay left the port on Tuesday morning, according to the seaport department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
Closing ceremonies were held at the Philippine Marine Corps headquarters in Taguig City also on Tuesday, a day ahead of schedule reportedly to accommodate the guest of honor, Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio.
Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen, commander of the US 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, said he was impressed by the professionalism and capabilities of all the forces involved in the drills.
He said the US Marines learned jungle warfare and combat engineering from the Philippine Marines, while the Philippine Marines learned amphibious operations from their US counterparts.
It was not clear whether the early end of Phiblex 33 was a response to President Duterte’s recent assertion that the joint exercises were the last of his six-year presidency.
Mr. Duterte, who identifies himself as a socialist, has also said he wants US forces out of Mindanao so he can talk peace with Moro separatists on the island who have not forgotten US atrocities there during the Moro wars of the early 20th century.
US officials say, however, that despite Mr. Duterte’s public remarks, his administration has made no formal requests to halt any programs. Nor has it followed up on Mr. Duterte’s threat to eject US forces from Mindanao, where a rotating force of 50 to 100 troops helps the Philippine Army combat Abu Sayyaf bandits.
The United States is giving the Philippines over $90 million in military aid this year and has provided more than $1 billion in nonmilitary support over the last five years, US officials said.
On Friday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said “we can live without” US military aid.
On Tuesday, Lorenzana insisted during a Senate budget hearing that the Philippines would survive without US military aid.
He said the Philippines could look to other allies for support, including Australia, Japan and South Korea.
Lorenzana said, however, that Mr. Duterte was not abrogating the Mutual Defense Treaty with the United States.
It was his concern that Western powers would lecture him on human rights that prompted Mr. Duterte’s denunciation of US President Barack Obama, as well as similar tirades against the United Nations and the European Union.
“I really lost my faith in the Americans,” he said in a speech to local officials last week. “You can go to hell, state department. You can go to hell, Obama. You can go to hell, EU. You can choose purgatory because hell is full. Why will I be afraid of you?”
US military officials said they were well aware of Mr. Duterte’s comments, but their counterparts in the Philippines had reassured them that business continued as usual.
Speaking in Malacañang on Tuesday, Mr. Duterte said he would not cancel the Philippines’ defense treaty with the United States, toning down his rhetoric after his senior adviser, former President Fidel Ramos, chastised him for making “discombobulating” statements against the country’s longtime ally.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/146570/u-s-ships-pack-up-leave-ahead-of-scheduled-end-of-war-games
ALL ABOARD American Marines from the USS Germantown load military vehicles and other equipment back into their ship at noontime on Tuesday as they prepare to leave Subic port. The US warships that participated in the joint bilateralmilitary exercises dubbed Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (Phiblex 33) have all left as the war games ended earlier than scheduled. —ALLANMACATUNO
Four US warships left this free port and closing ceremonies were held in Taguig City on Tuesday, a day before the scheduled conclusion of this year’s joint military drills between Filipino and American troops.
Capt. Ryan Lacuesta, director of the Philippine Marine Corps Public Affairs Office, said the major drills were completed on Monday.
The last round of the war games, including a combined live fire exercise, was held at Crow Valley in Tarlac province.
The exercises involved 500 Filipino soldiers and 1,400 American troops.
Going home
US Marines from the USS Bonhomme Richard and the USS Germantown were seen loading military vehicles and other equipment back to their ships on Tuesday noon. The ships were scheduled to leave later that day.The USNS Fall River and the USS Green Bay left the port on Tuesday morning, according to the seaport department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
Closing ceremonies were held at the Philippine Marine Corps headquarters in Taguig City also on Tuesday, a day ahead of schedule reportedly to accommodate the guest of honor, Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio.
Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen, commander of the US 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, said he was impressed by the professionalism and capabilities of all the forces involved in the drills.
He said the US Marines learned jungle warfare and combat engineering from the Philippine Marines, while the Philippine Marines learned amphibious operations from their US counterparts.
It was not clear whether the early end of Phiblex 33 was a response to President Duterte’s recent assertion that the joint exercises were the last of his six-year presidency.
Mr. Duterte, who identifies himself as a socialist, has also said he wants US forces out of Mindanao so he can talk peace with Moro separatists on the island who have not forgotten US atrocities there during the Moro wars of the early 20th century.
US officials say, however, that despite Mr. Duterte’s public remarks, his administration has made no formal requests to halt any programs. Nor has it followed up on Mr. Duterte’s threat to eject US forces from Mindanao, where a rotating force of 50 to 100 troops helps the Philippine Army combat Abu Sayyaf bandits.
Military aid
But in the latest of his near-daily tirades against the United States, Mr. Duterte said on Tuesday that he would eventually break up with Washington, which he told to bring its military aid elsewhere.The United States is giving the Philippines over $90 million in military aid this year and has provided more than $1 billion in nonmilitary support over the last five years, US officials said.
On Friday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said “we can live without” US military aid.
On Tuesday, Lorenzana insisted during a Senate budget hearing that the Philippines would survive without US military aid.
He said the Philippines could look to other allies for support, including Australia, Japan and South Korea.
Lorenzana said, however, that Mr. Duterte was not abrogating the Mutual Defense Treaty with the United States.
War on drugs
Some of the tension between Mr. Duterte’s administration and Washington has come from international outrage over the Philippine leader’s brutal war on illegal drugs, which has led to the killing of more than 3,600 people.It was his concern that Western powers would lecture him on human rights that prompted Mr. Duterte’s denunciation of US President Barack Obama, as well as similar tirades against the United Nations and the European Union.
“I really lost my faith in the Americans,” he said in a speech to local officials last week. “You can go to hell, state department. You can go to hell, Obama. You can go to hell, EU. You can choose purgatory because hell is full. Why will I be afraid of you?”
US military officials said they were well aware of Mr. Duterte’s comments, but their counterparts in the Philippines had reassured them that business continued as usual.
Speaking in Malacañang on Tuesday, Mr. Duterte said he would not cancel the Philippines’ defense treaty with the United States, toning down his rhetoric after his senior adviser, former President Fidel Ramos, chastised him for making “discombobulating” statements against the country’s longtime ally.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/146570/u-s-ships-pack-up-leave-ahead-of-scheduled-end-of-war-games
Bukit Aman to get info on arrested militant
From The Star Online (Oct 12): Bukit Aman to get info on arrested militant
Bukit Aman will reach out to their Philippines’ counterpart in connection with the arrest of Malaysian terrorist Mohamas Amin, says Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.
Khalid said police needed to get more information on the arrests before taking any further action.
“Surely, we will get confirmation from the authorities in the Philippines,” he said when asked to comment on Mohamas Amin’s arrest by the Philippine National Police (PNP), which thwarted planned bombing attacks in Manila.
Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that the suspect, who had a 600,000 peso (RM133,000) bounty on his head, was present at a press briefing by PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) acting director Chief Supt Roel Obusan on Monday.
Mohamas Amin was arrested at 4am on Saturday by joint operatives from the Anti-Transnational Crimes Unit (ATCU) of the CIDG and the PNP Intelligence Group during a raid in Quezon City.
Also arrested were Bilal Taalam, the owner of the house where Amin was staying, and Adnan Malangkis. Eight other tenants in the house are also being investigated.
The CIDG believes all three have links to the Abu Sayyaf group in Sulu. A fragmentation grenade, several rounds of ammunition, various identification cards, a blueprint of a condo mall in Quezon City and a cellular phone were recovered.
The daily also quoted Chief Supt Obusan as saying that the results of the police interrogation on the suspects further strengthened their belief about Mohamas Amin’s plot to stage bombing attacks in Manila.
“Our operatives confiscated a blueprint of a building, a condo mall (in Quezon City), indicating they were studying the area,” Chief Supt Obusan said, refusing to name the mall to avoid panic.
Mohamas Amin, who also goes by the names Asman, Akman Amin and Amin Aklam, is a bomb expert and is a subject of an arrest warrant for a murder case filed at the Regional Trial Court in Jolo, Sulu.
Other Abu Sayyaf members are also facing the same charges in the same court.
Amin and Malangkis were subjected to inquest proceedings for violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and Illegal Possession of Explosives Act before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.
Mohamas Amin will also be charged with violation of Article 78 of the Revised Penal Code for concealing his true identity while Taalam was charged with obstruction of justice and harbouring a fugitive or wanted person.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/10/12/bukit-aman-to-get-info-on-arrested-militant/
Bukit Aman will reach out to their Philippines’ counterpart in connection with the arrest of Malaysian terrorist Mohamas Amin, says Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.
Khalid said police needed to get more information on the arrests before taking any further action.
“Surely, we will get confirmation from the authorities in the Philippines,” he said when asked to comment on Mohamas Amin’s arrest by the Philippine National Police (PNP), which thwarted planned bombing attacks in Manila.
Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that the suspect, who had a 600,000 peso (RM133,000) bounty on his head, was present at a press briefing by PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) acting director Chief Supt Roel Obusan on Monday.
Also arrested were Bilal Taalam, the owner of the house where Amin was staying, and Adnan Malangkis. Eight other tenants in the house are also being investigated.
The CIDG believes all three have links to the Abu Sayyaf group in Sulu. A fragmentation grenade, several rounds of ammunition, various identification cards, a blueprint of a condo mall in Quezon City and a cellular phone were recovered.
The daily also quoted Chief Supt Obusan as saying that the results of the police interrogation on the suspects further strengthened their belief about Mohamas Amin’s plot to stage bombing attacks in Manila.
“Our operatives confiscated a blueprint of a building, a condo mall (in Quezon City), indicating they were studying the area,” Chief Supt Obusan said, refusing to name the mall to avoid panic.
Mohamas Amin, who also goes by the names Asman, Akman Amin and Amin Aklam, is a bomb expert and is a subject of an arrest warrant for a murder case filed at the Regional Trial Court in Jolo, Sulu.
Other Abu Sayyaf members are also facing the same charges in the same court.
Amin and Malangkis were subjected to inquest proceedings for violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and Illegal Possession of Explosives Act before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.
Mohamas Amin will also be charged with violation of Article 78 of the Revised Penal Code for concealing his true identity while Taalam was charged with obstruction of justice and harbouring a fugitive or wanted person.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/10/12/bukit-aman-to-get-info-on-arrested-militant/
Recent developments surrounding the South China Sea
From Fox News (Oct 10): Recent developments surrounding the South China Sea
A military truck, foreground, carrying U.S. Marines from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade forces drives past a Philippine Marine APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) which got stuck in the sandy portion of a riverbed as they take part in a live-fire amphibious landing exercise dubbed PHIBLEX Monday, Oct. 10, 2016 in Crow Valley in Capas township, Tarlac province, north of Manila, Philippines. The combat drill, however, maybe the last under President Rodrigo Duterte, who has opposed the war games partly because they may upset China and because of his disgust over U.S. criticisms of his bloody anti-drug campaign. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) (The Associated Press)
U.S. Marines from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade walk in line as they prepare to take part in a live-fire amphibious landing exercise dubbed PHIBLEX Monday, Oct. 10, 2016 in Crow Valley in Capas township, Tarlac province, north of Manila, Philippines. The combat drill, however, maybe the last under President Rodrigo Duterte, who has opposed the war games partly because they may upset China and because of his disgust over U.S. criticisms of his bloody anti-drug campaign. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) (The Associated Press)
A U.S. marine, second from left, from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, runs to their vehicle with his Philippine counterparts as they take part in a live-fire amphibious landing exercise dubbed PHIBLEX Monday, Oct. 10, 2016 in Crow Valley in Capas township, Tarlac province, north of Manila, Philippines. The combat drill, however, maybe the last under President Rodrigo Duterte, who has opposed the war games partly because they may upset China and because of his disgust over U.S. criticisms of his bloody anti-drug campaign. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) (The Associated Press)
BEIJING – A look at recent developments in the South China Sea, where China is pitted against smaller neighbors in multiple disputes over islands, coral reefs and lagoons in waters crucial for global commerce and rich in fish and potential oil and gas reserves:
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a weekly look at the latest key developments in the South China Sea, home to several territorial conflicts that have raised tensions in the region.
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MANILA'S DEFENSE CHIEF SAYS PLANNED PHILIPPINE-US NAVAL EXERCISES ON HOLD
The Philippine defense chief said he told the U.S. military that plans for joint patrols and naval exercises in the disputed South China Sea have been put on hold, the first concrete break in defense cooperation after months of increasingly strident comments by the country's new president.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also said that 107 U.S. troops involved in operating surveillance drones against Muslim militants would be asked to leave the southern part of the country once the Philippines acquires those intelligence-gathering capabilities in the near future.
President Rodrigo Duterte also wants to halt the 28 military exercises that are carried out with U.S. forces each year, Lorenzana said. Duterte has said he wants an ongoing U.S.-Philippine amphibious beach landing exercise to be the last in his six-year presidency as he backs away from what he views as too much dependence on the U.S.
In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby said the U.S. government is not aware of any official notification on curtailing military exercises. He said the U.S. remains focused on its security commitments to the Philippines, with which it has a mutual defense treaty.
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INDONESIA DISPLAYS AIR FORCE IN FLIGHT OVER SOUTH CHINA SEA
Indonesia's air force flew over the South China Sea in a show of its determination to prevent foreign encroachment into territory rich in energy and fishing resources.
Dozens of aircraft including fighter jets and helicopters and more than 2,000 air force personnel joined in the operation Thursday near Indonesia's Natuna Islands. The intended audience appeared to be China, whose claim to virtually the entire waterbody stops just short of the islands.
Although it does not claim disputed territory in the South China Sea, Indonesia has shown a growing determination to confront Chinese and other foreign ships poaching fish in the area, destroying dozens of them in recent months.
Chinese fishing boats are frequently assisted by the country's coast guard and navy and some operate as a form of seagoing militia. China considers the area its traditional fishing ground.
China's Foreign Ministry released a statement of protest in June after the Indonesian navy fired on one of its fishing vessels, saying it had "abused its military force." It said one fisherman was injured in the incident.
Indonesia responded by saying it would continue to take "decisive" action against foreign ships operating illegally in waters under its jurisdiction.
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SOUTH CHINA SEA DISPUTE OVERSHADOWS INTERNATIONAL MILITARY FORUM IN BEIJING
The South China Sea dispute is overshadowing an international military forum in Beijing that China hopes will boost its regional influence in military affairs.
The seventh Xiangshan Forum gets underway Monday with a keynote address by a member of the Central Military Commission that oversees China's 2.3 million-member armed forces. While China generally tries to avoid friction at such events that it hosts, the three days of meetings will offer plenty of opportunities for discussion of the dispute.
Adding to its anger over a ruling by an international arbitration panel favoring the Philippines in its challenge to China's territorial claims, Beijing is now feuding with Singapore over a Chinese state newspaper's accusations that the city-state is becoming inappropriately involved in the dispute.
Singapore accused the Global Times, a nationalist Chinese state-run newspaper, of fabricating details in a report that it said falsely depicted the city-state's conduct at a recent summit in Venezuela.
The report triggered an unusually public dispute between Singapore's ambassador to China and the chief editor of the tabloid newspaper, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's mouthpiece, the People's Daily.
The forum also comes less than two weeks after South Korea announced the site for an advanced U.S. missile defense system, further stoking outrage in Beijing, which says the system's radars can peer deep into northeastern China, threatening its security.
China hopes the Xiangshan Forum can be a challenger to the annual Shangri-la Dialogue held in Singapore. Its theme this year is "Build a New Type of International Relations through Security Dialogue and Cooperation." Topics for its panels include increasing maritime security cooperation and counter-terrorism work.
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SOUTH KOREAN COAST GUARD, CHINESE FISHERMEN CLASH IN YELLOW SEA
Seoul said it has lodged a formal complaint with Beijing accusing Chinese fishing boats of ramming and sinking a South Korean coast guard vessel.
South Korea's Foreign Ministry said it summoned a senior Chinese diplomat and complained about the sinking last Friday.
Seoul said the incident happened when the coast guard vessel was trying to stop Chinese fishing boats from fishing illegally off South Korea's west coast. No injuries were reported.
South Korean media reports said coast guard officers fired shots at the Chinese fishing boats as they approached the South Korean vessel.
The coast guard confirmed that warning shots were fired into the sky, but said it does not know if any were fired at the Chinese boats.
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2016/10/10/recent-developments-surrounding-south-china-sea.html
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MANILA'S DEFENSE CHIEF SAYS PLANNED PHILIPPINE-US NAVAL EXERCISES ON HOLD
The Philippine defense chief said he told the U.S. military that plans for joint patrols and naval exercises in the disputed South China Sea have been put on hold, the first concrete break in defense cooperation after months of increasingly strident comments by the country's new president.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also said that 107 U.S. troops involved in operating surveillance drones against Muslim militants would be asked to leave the southern part of the country once the Philippines acquires those intelligence-gathering capabilities in the near future.
President Rodrigo Duterte also wants to halt the 28 military exercises that are carried out with U.S. forces each year, Lorenzana said. Duterte has said he wants an ongoing U.S.-Philippine amphibious beach landing exercise to be the last in his six-year presidency as he backs away from what he views as too much dependence on the U.S.
In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby said the U.S. government is not aware of any official notification on curtailing military exercises. He said the U.S. remains focused on its security commitments to the Philippines, with which it has a mutual defense treaty.
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INDONESIA DISPLAYS AIR FORCE IN FLIGHT OVER SOUTH CHINA SEA
Indonesia's air force flew over the South China Sea in a show of its determination to prevent foreign encroachment into territory rich in energy and fishing resources.
Dozens of aircraft including fighter jets and helicopters and more than 2,000 air force personnel joined in the operation Thursday near Indonesia's Natuna Islands. The intended audience appeared to be China, whose claim to virtually the entire waterbody stops just short of the islands.
Although it does not claim disputed territory in the South China Sea, Indonesia has shown a growing determination to confront Chinese and other foreign ships poaching fish in the area, destroying dozens of them in recent months.
Chinese fishing boats are frequently assisted by the country's coast guard and navy and some operate as a form of seagoing militia. China considers the area its traditional fishing ground.
China's Foreign Ministry released a statement of protest in June after the Indonesian navy fired on one of its fishing vessels, saying it had "abused its military force." It said one fisherman was injured in the incident.
Indonesia responded by saying it would continue to take "decisive" action against foreign ships operating illegally in waters under its jurisdiction.
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SOUTH CHINA SEA DISPUTE OVERSHADOWS INTERNATIONAL MILITARY FORUM IN BEIJING
The South China Sea dispute is overshadowing an international military forum in Beijing that China hopes will boost its regional influence in military affairs.
The seventh Xiangshan Forum gets underway Monday with a keynote address by a member of the Central Military Commission that oversees China's 2.3 million-member armed forces. While China generally tries to avoid friction at such events that it hosts, the three days of meetings will offer plenty of opportunities for discussion of the dispute.
Adding to its anger over a ruling by an international arbitration panel favoring the Philippines in its challenge to China's territorial claims, Beijing is now feuding with Singapore over a Chinese state newspaper's accusations that the city-state is becoming inappropriately involved in the dispute.
Singapore accused the Global Times, a nationalist Chinese state-run newspaper, of fabricating details in a report that it said falsely depicted the city-state's conduct at a recent summit in Venezuela.
The report triggered an unusually public dispute between Singapore's ambassador to China and the chief editor of the tabloid newspaper, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's mouthpiece, the People's Daily.
The forum also comes less than two weeks after South Korea announced the site for an advanced U.S. missile defense system, further stoking outrage in Beijing, which says the system's radars can peer deep into northeastern China, threatening its security.
China hopes the Xiangshan Forum can be a challenger to the annual Shangri-la Dialogue held in Singapore. Its theme this year is "Build a New Type of International Relations through Security Dialogue and Cooperation." Topics for its panels include increasing maritime security cooperation and counter-terrorism work.
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SOUTH KOREAN COAST GUARD, CHINESE FISHERMEN CLASH IN YELLOW SEA
Seoul said it has lodged a formal complaint with Beijing accusing Chinese fishing boats of ramming and sinking a South Korean coast guard vessel.
South Korea's Foreign Ministry said it summoned a senior Chinese diplomat and complained about the sinking last Friday.
Seoul said the incident happened when the coast guard vessel was trying to stop Chinese fishing boats from fishing illegally off South Korea's west coast. No injuries were reported.
South Korean media reports said coast guard officers fired shots at the Chinese fishing boats as they approached the South Korean vessel.
The coast guard confirmed that warning shots were fired into the sky, but said it does not know if any were fired at the Chinese boats.
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2016/10/10/recent-developments-surrounding-south-china-sea.html
‘Philippines may terminate international agreements if…’
From the Philippine Star (Oct 10): ‘Philippines may terminate international agreements if…’
U.S. Marines from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade wade through a creek after taking part in the joint US-Philippines amphibious landing exercise dubbed PHIBLEX Friday Oct.7, 2016 at Naval Education Training Command in San Antonio township, Zambales province northwest of Manila, Philippines. The combat drill, however, may be the last under President Rodrigo Duterte, who has opposed the war games partly because they may upset China and because of his disgust over U.S. criticisms of his bloody anti-drug campaign. AP Photo/Bullit Marquez
The Philippines is ready to terminate international agreements when the national interest is no longer served and will reject aid or opportunities provided under a “carrot and stick” policy, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said.
Yasay made the statement over the weekend after the Philippines had officially informed the United States that it would no longer participate in joint patrols in the South China Sea, following orders from President Duterte.
Duterte has said he wanted US military forces out of Mindanao, blaming the Americans for inflaming local Muslim insurgencies in the region.
He has threatened to scrap the 2014 agreement granting American troops increased access to Philippine bases.
While the Philippines will respect and keep its mutual defense treaty with the US, Yasay said this should not cause the country to be dependent on Washington.
“Even as we will respect and keep our mutual defense treaty with the US as our safeguard against any risk or menace from external aggression that undermine our territorial integrity, sovereignty rights and maritime entitlements under international law, this important alliance cannot be carried out to perpetuate our dependency thereby making us vulnerable to subservience,” Yasay said in a statement on Saturday.
“We will also not hesitate to terminate our international agreements, when the national interest will no longer be served,” he declared.
Yasay added that military alliances with other nations should enable the Philippines to be self-reliant in adequately dealing with the internal and external threats to its security.
Despite Duterte’s declaration that he would seek a review of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the US, Yasay said on Monday said there is no need to do so.
Yasay noted the Supreme Court had upheld the legality of EDCA, which grants American troops access to Philippine military bases.
Last week, Duterte also dared the US and the European Union to pull out their assistance to the Philippines, saying the country can survive without their help.
Duterte said the Philippines would not sacrifice dignity as a nation for aid from other countries who do not understand the seriousness of the drug problem.
“We will never allow any bullying to make us submit to the interest of any other nation. Henceforth, we will reject any aid, assistance or opportunities for joint cooperation from anyone under onerous conditions or offered pursuant to a ‘carrot and stick’ policy,” Yasay said.
Yasay explained that in building on the economic pillar of the country’s foreign relations, “we must recognize that all nations – whether weak or strong, small or big – will be interdependent with each other.”
The distribution of capital and resources, products and markets around the globe will always have a compelling effect upon such interdependence, Yasay said.
This is how every country will make their economy dynamic, robust and sustainable for the welfare of its people, he said.
“Our relationships toward this convergence of interests must be balanced and fair to be mutually beneficial to all concerned,” Yasay said.
Yasay pointed out the overriding consideration of the Duterte administration’s foreign policy shift is to protect and promote the national interest by promoting friendship with all nations.
Duterte has had an uneasy relationship with the United States since he won a presidential election in May. He says he is charting a foreign policy not dependent on the US, and has taken steps to revive ties with China, which had been strained over longstanding territorial conflicts in the South China Sea.
Yasay on Thursday said the US has “failed” the Philippines, prompting the President to break the country’s “shackling dependency” on its former colonizer and liberate Filipinos from submission to American demands and interests.
“Breaking away from the shackling dependency of the Philippines to effectively address both internal and external security threats has become imperative in putting an end to our nation’s subservience to United States’ interests,” Yasay said.
He said the “carrot and stick” policy of the US towards the Philippines has been effectively used through the years since the country’s independence to force Filipinos into submission to American demands and interests.
“This is what PRRD (Duterte) is now trying to liberate us from,” he said.
This has also compelled Duterte to realign Philippine foreign policy towards an independent track in pursuing the overriding national interest and in upholding and protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Duterte’s urgent message in realigning independent foreign policy brings to bear the state of Philippine relations with the US and traditional partners, Yasay said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/10/10/1632124/philippines-may-terminate-international-agreements-if...
U.S. Marines from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade wade through a creek after taking part in the joint US-Philippines amphibious landing exercise dubbed PHIBLEX Friday Oct.7, 2016 at Naval Education Training Command in San Antonio township, Zambales province northwest of Manila, Philippines. The combat drill, however, may be the last under President Rodrigo Duterte, who has opposed the war games partly because they may upset China and because of his disgust over U.S. criticisms of his bloody anti-drug campaign. AP Photo/Bullit Marquez
The Philippines is ready to terminate international agreements when the national interest is no longer served and will reject aid or opportunities provided under a “carrot and stick” policy, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said.
Yasay made the statement over the weekend after the Philippines had officially informed the United States that it would no longer participate in joint patrols in the South China Sea, following orders from President Duterte.
Duterte has said he wanted US military forces out of Mindanao, blaming the Americans for inflaming local Muslim insurgencies in the region.
He has threatened to scrap the 2014 agreement granting American troops increased access to Philippine bases.
While the Philippines will respect and keep its mutual defense treaty with the US, Yasay said this should not cause the country to be dependent on Washington.
“Even as we will respect and keep our mutual defense treaty with the US as our safeguard against any risk or menace from external aggression that undermine our territorial integrity, sovereignty rights and maritime entitlements under international law, this important alliance cannot be carried out to perpetuate our dependency thereby making us vulnerable to subservience,” Yasay said in a statement on Saturday.
“We will also not hesitate to terminate our international agreements, when the national interest will no longer be served,” he declared.
Yasay added that military alliances with other nations should enable the Philippines to be self-reliant in adequately dealing with the internal and external threats to its security.
Despite Duterte’s declaration that he would seek a review of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the US, Yasay said on Monday said there is no need to do so.
Yasay noted the Supreme Court had upheld the legality of EDCA, which grants American troops access to Philippine military bases.
Last week, Duterte also dared the US and the European Union to pull out their assistance to the Philippines, saying the country can survive without their help.
Duterte said the Philippines would not sacrifice dignity as a nation for aid from other countries who do not understand the seriousness of the drug problem.
“We will never allow any bullying to make us submit to the interest of any other nation. Henceforth, we will reject any aid, assistance or opportunities for joint cooperation from anyone under onerous conditions or offered pursuant to a ‘carrot and stick’ policy,” Yasay said.
Yasay explained that in building on the economic pillar of the country’s foreign relations, “we must recognize that all nations – whether weak or strong, small or big – will be interdependent with each other.”
The distribution of capital and resources, products and markets around the globe will always have a compelling effect upon such interdependence, Yasay said.
This is how every country will make their economy dynamic, robust and sustainable for the welfare of its people, he said.
“Our relationships toward this convergence of interests must be balanced and fair to be mutually beneficial to all concerned,” Yasay said.
Yasay pointed out the overriding consideration of the Duterte administration’s foreign policy shift is to protect and promote the national interest by promoting friendship with all nations.
Duterte has had an uneasy relationship with the United States since he won a presidential election in May. He says he is charting a foreign policy not dependent on the US, and has taken steps to revive ties with China, which had been strained over longstanding territorial conflicts in the South China Sea.
Yasay on Thursday said the US has “failed” the Philippines, prompting the President to break the country’s “shackling dependency” on its former colonizer and liberate Filipinos from submission to American demands and interests.
“Breaking away from the shackling dependency of the Philippines to effectively address both internal and external security threats has become imperative in putting an end to our nation’s subservience to United States’ interests,” Yasay said.
He said the “carrot and stick” policy of the US towards the Philippines has been effectively used through the years since the country’s independence to force Filipinos into submission to American demands and interests.
“This is what PRRD (Duterte) is now trying to liberate us from,” he said.
This has also compelled Duterte to realign Philippine foreign policy towards an independent track in pursuing the overriding national interest and in upholding and protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Duterte’s urgent message in realigning independent foreign policy brings to bear the state of Philippine relations with the US and traditional partners, Yasay said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/10/10/1632124/philippines-may-terminate-international-agreements-if...
Pemberton jail transfer plea to put to test Duterte’s anti-US stance
From BusinessWorld (Oct 10): Pemberton jail transfer plea to put to test Duterte’s anti-US stance
AMID comments critical of the United States by President Rodrigo R. Duterte himself, a lawyer for the family of slain transgender Jeffrey Jennifer S. Laude appealed to the Philippine government for the transfer of US soldier Joseph Scott Pemberton to the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.
AMID comments critical of the United States by President Rodrigo R. Duterte himself, a lawyer for the family of slain transgender Jeffrey Jennifer S. Laude appealed to the Philippine government for the transfer of US soldier Joseph Scott Pemberton to the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.
In this December 2015 file photo, protesters outside Camp Aguinaldo call for the detention of US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton at the national penitentiary. -- AFP
Pemberton was convicted of homicide in December last year for the 2014 killing of the Filipino transgender.
“Part of our statement will be to challenge Duterte, Bato (Philippine National Police Chief Ronald M. dela Rosa), and DoJ (Department of Justice) to transfer Pemberton to National Bilibid,” lawyer Virginia L. Suarez told BusinessWorld in a phone message.
She said she would make this public appeal on Oct. 12, the death anniversary of Mr. Laude (referred to as a man in the decision by Olongapo City’s Regional Trial Court Branch 74).
“Part of our statement will be to challenge Duterte, Bato (Philippine National Police Chief Ronald M. dela Rosa), and DoJ (Department of Justice) to transfer Pemberton to National Bilibid,” lawyer Virginia L. Suarez told BusinessWorld in a phone message.
She said she would make this public appeal on Oct. 12, the death anniversary of Mr. Laude (referred to as a man in the decision by Olongapo City’s Regional Trial Court Branch 74).
“I’d like to know how they would respond,” she added.
Pemberton was sentenced with a six-to-ten-year prison term over the killing of Mr. Laude, whose lifeless body was found slumped in the toilet of a hotel in Olongapo City after the two were seen checking in together.
The high-profile case reignited calls to end the US-Philippines Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which allows US visiting soldiers like Pemberton on Philippine soil.
While on trial, Pemberton was in the custody of the US in a holding facility inside Camp Aguinaldo in accordance with a provision under the VFA.
Ms. Suarez said Pemberton remains in Camp Aguinaldo.
“It is our position that the facility where he is being jailed is a US facility where none of our AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) or police officers have easy access,” she said in one of her messages.
Pemberton was sentenced with a six-to-ten-year prison term over the killing of Mr. Laude, whose lifeless body was found slumped in the toilet of a hotel in Olongapo City after the two were seen checking in together.
The high-profile case reignited calls to end the US-Philippines Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which allows US visiting soldiers like Pemberton on Philippine soil.
While on trial, Pemberton was in the custody of the US in a holding facility inside Camp Aguinaldo in accordance with a provision under the VFA.
Ms. Suarez said Pemberton remains in Camp Aguinaldo.
“It is our position that the facility where he is being jailed is a US facility where none of our AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) or police officers have easy access,” she said in one of her messages.
But the NBP, the country’s main penitentiary where the Laude family wants Pemberton imprisoned, does not comply with international standards on prison space.
State figures as of 2012 show that there are 20,982 inmates in NBP, despite its maximum capacity of less than 10,000 inmates.
The Olongapo court upon Pemberton’s appeal and in accordance with the VFA Commission subsequently ruled on the US soldier’s stay at Camp Aguinaldo following his conviction, Ms. Suarez explained.
State figures as of 2012 show that there are 20,982 inmates in NBP, despite its maximum capacity of less than 10,000 inmates.
The Olongapo court upon Pemberton’s appeal and in accordance with the VFA Commission subsequently ruled on the US soldier’s stay at Camp Aguinaldo following his conviction, Ms. Suarez explained.
US-Philippines ties have been strained by Mr. Duterte’s vitriolic remarks against the US, its incumbent President Barack H. Obama, and its State Department -- remarks that are unprecedented in the Philippines’ presidency -- in response to international criticism, including by the US, on the Philippine government’s war on illegal drugs and its rising death tally.
Mr. Duterte’s top diplomat, Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr., who had been based in the United States before his present assignment, has affirmed Mr. Duterte’s position with his also notable statements -- particularly his “America has failed us” post on social media, which is also on the Web site of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Yet, while he has backed Mr. Duterte’s remarks that military exercises with the US will end soon, Mr. Yasay also noted the US remains the Philippines’ only military ally.
He told a Senate panel last week that “revitalized” ties with China is “not from a military viewpoint,” in contrast to Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana’s remarks at a forum last Friday hinting at the option of the Philippines buying arms from China and Russia.
Senator Richard J. Gordon, who had been mayor of Olongapo City where a US naval base was previously located, said Wednesday that Mr. Duterte’s tirades against the US could be an “internal strategy” given the Philippines’ planned talks with China over a maritime dispute.
Mr. Gordon backed Mr. Duterte’s position on establishing an “independent foreign policy,” which meant diversifying state partnerships.
“So that America will treat us more with respect,” the senator said.
“Marami silang naitulong pero marami rin silang hindi magandang ginagawa (They helped us a lot, but they also did many things that were not good),” he told reporters.
“Unequal treaties are the result of unequal bargaining strength,” Mr. Gordon also said, citing the VFA which allows US visiting soldiers on trial in the country to be under US custody instead of detention in Philippine jails.
Mr. Gordon said, however, he doesn’t see an end to US-Philippines ties.
Mr. Duterte had earlier threatened to end the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, signed in 2014 by representatives of his predecessor, Benigno S. C. Aquino III, and Mr. Obama.
The agreement allows abrogation, with the abrogating party giving “one year’s written notice through diplomatic channels of its intention to terminate the Agreement.”
Mr. Duterte’s top diplomat, Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr., who had been based in the United States before his present assignment, has affirmed Mr. Duterte’s position with his also notable statements -- particularly his “America has failed us” post on social media, which is also on the Web site of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Yet, while he has backed Mr. Duterte’s remarks that military exercises with the US will end soon, Mr. Yasay also noted the US remains the Philippines’ only military ally.
He told a Senate panel last week that “revitalized” ties with China is “not from a military viewpoint,” in contrast to Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana’s remarks at a forum last Friday hinting at the option of the Philippines buying arms from China and Russia.
Senator Richard J. Gordon, who had been mayor of Olongapo City where a US naval base was previously located, said Wednesday that Mr. Duterte’s tirades against the US could be an “internal strategy” given the Philippines’ planned talks with China over a maritime dispute.
Mr. Gordon backed Mr. Duterte’s position on establishing an “independent foreign policy,” which meant diversifying state partnerships.
“So that America will treat us more with respect,” the senator said.
“Marami silang naitulong pero marami rin silang hindi magandang ginagawa (They helped us a lot, but they also did many things that were not good),” he told reporters.
“Unequal treaties are the result of unequal bargaining strength,” Mr. Gordon also said, citing the VFA which allows US visiting soldiers on trial in the country to be under US custody instead of detention in Philippine jails.
Mr. Gordon said, however, he doesn’t see an end to US-Philippines ties.
Mr. Duterte had earlier threatened to end the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, signed in 2014 by representatives of his predecessor, Benigno S. C. Aquino III, and Mr. Obama.
The agreement allows abrogation, with the abrogating party giving “one year’s written notice through diplomatic channels of its intention to terminate the Agreement.”
First activity for newly minted peace deal…poster making
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 11): First activity for newly minted peace deal…poster making
The Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) of the peace panels of the government (GRP) and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) that was convened during the second round of peace talks will undertake joint activities to promote the implementation of Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
In a joint statement, these activities include, among others, the distribution of CARHRIHL in several local “languages, brochures, poster-making contest, and calendar” that will be conducted for the next 15 months from October 2016 until December 2017.
The JMC is also tasked to come up with a monitoring system and promote human rights by conducting fora and trainings and will recommend the inclusion of the study of human rights and international humanitarian law in the curriculum of schools.
For GRP side, Lawyer Efren C. Moncupa will be chair of the JMC, and his members are are Prosecutor General Claro A. Arellano and Col. Facundo O. Palafox IV while Fidel Agcaoili will be chair for NDFP side, with members Connie Ledesma and Concha Araneta.
Angeles City mayor Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has been chosen as independent observer for the GRP in the JMC while Fr. Rex Reyes and Christina Palabay for the NDFP.
The CARHRIHL is meant “to meet the needs arising from the concrete conditions of the Filipino people concerning violations of human rights and the principles of international humanitarian law, and to find principled ways and means of rendering justice to all the victims of such violations,” according to the NDFP.org, the official website of the NDFP.
“Both parties are also bound to uphold, protect, and promote the full scope of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights,” it said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/first-activity-for-newly-minted-peace-deal-poster-making/
The Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) of the peace panels of the government (GRP) and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) that was convened during the second round of peace talks will undertake joint activities to promote the implementation of Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
MB FILE – Members of the Philippine government and National Democratic Front panels, their staff and supporters gather for a photo after signing an agreement for an indefinite ceasefire, an ‘unprecedented’ development in the negotiations between the two sides in Oslo, Norway, on Friday.
(Rocky Nazareno / Manila Bulletin)
(Rocky Nazareno / Manila Bulletin)
In a joint statement, these activities include, among others, the distribution of CARHRIHL in several local “languages, brochures, poster-making contest, and calendar” that will be conducted for the next 15 months from October 2016 until December 2017.
The JMC is also tasked to come up with a monitoring system and promote human rights by conducting fora and trainings and will recommend the inclusion of the study of human rights and international humanitarian law in the curriculum of schools.
For GRP side, Lawyer Efren C. Moncupa will be chair of the JMC, and his members are are Prosecutor General Claro A. Arellano and Col. Facundo O. Palafox IV while Fidel Agcaoili will be chair for NDFP side, with members Connie Ledesma and Concha Araneta.
Angeles City mayor Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan has been chosen as independent observer for the GRP in the JMC while Fr. Rex Reyes and Christina Palabay for the NDFP.
The CARHRIHL is meant “to meet the needs arising from the concrete conditions of the Filipino people concerning violations of human rights and the principles of international humanitarian law, and to find principled ways and means of rendering justice to all the victims of such violations,” according to the NDFP.org, the official website of the NDFP.
“Both parties are also bound to uphold, protect, and promote the full scope of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights,” it said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/first-activity-for-newly-minted-peace-deal-poster-making/
2nd round of peace talks ends on a high in Oslo
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 11): 2nd round of peace talks ends on a high in Oslo
After several breaks, delays and back channeling, both parties were able to reach common drafts for the framework and outlines of the substantive agenda on socioeconomic, political and constitutional reforms, and the end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
These will set the direction, in both form and content, for the crafting of the draft comprehensive agreements that will be discussed in the following months.
The most trying moments, the panels said, were discussions on amnesty, the release of political prisoners and the bilateral ceasefire agreement.
The NDFP asserted that the revolutionary movement was apprehensive about signing a bilateral ceasefire while 434 political prisoners were still held in different jails in the country.
The government panel earlier disclosed that the draft amnesty proclamation was submitted to the Office of the President on Sept. 27, days before the second round of talks started.
The draft amnesty proclamation covers 434 political prisoners. The number was based on a list submitted by the NDFP on Sept. 15. At least 81 of the political prisoners, including women and elderly, were also considered for immediate release on humanitarian considerations.
Bello explained that while government procedures must be observed for the amnesty, the government panel would work on releasing at least 81 political prisoners—women, the sick and the elderly—on humanitarian grounds.
A bilateral ceasefire agreement is expected within the month if the release of the political prisoners pushes through.
With this, Bello proposed during the closing of the second round of talks that the signing of the bilateral ceasefire agreement be done in Davao City in the presence of President Duterte.
NDFP peace panel chair Fidel Agcaoili posed no objection to the proposal as long as the commitment to release the political prisoners was honored.
At the closing ceremony, the parties signed a six-page document titled Joint Statement on the Second Round of Talks Between the GRP and the NDFP.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/824072/2nd-round-of-peace-talks-ends-on-a-high-in-oslo
In this Oct, 9, 2016, file photo, the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front close the second round of talks with them agreeing on the amnesty and releases of political prisoners and the outline and framework on socio-economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms and the end of hostiles and disposition of forces. KARLOS MANLUPIG, INQUIRER MINDANAO
Despite Norway’s chilly weather, commitments were renewed and warm relationships strengthened in the second round of talks between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
These will set the direction, in both form and content, for the crafting of the draft comprehensive agreements that will be discussed in the following months.
The most trying moments, the panels said, were discussions on amnesty, the release of political prisoners and the bilateral ceasefire agreement.
The NDFP asserted that the revolutionary movement was apprehensive about signing a bilateral ceasefire while 434 political prisoners were still held in different jails in the country.
Already with President
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello, government peace panel chair, said he hoped the NDFP was happy the draft of the amnesty proclamation was already in the Office of the President.The government panel earlier disclosed that the draft amnesty proclamation was submitted to the Office of the President on Sept. 27, days before the second round of talks started.
The draft amnesty proclamation covers 434 political prisoners. The number was based on a list submitted by the NDFP on Sept. 15. At least 81 of the political prisoners, including women and elderly, were also considered for immediate release on humanitarian considerations.
Bello explained that while government procedures must be observed for the amnesty, the government panel would work on releasing at least 81 political prisoners—women, the sick and the elderly—on humanitarian grounds.
A bilateral ceasefire agreement is expected within the month if the release of the political prisoners pushes through.
With this, Bello proposed during the closing of the second round of talks that the signing of the bilateral ceasefire agreement be done in Davao City in the presence of President Duterte.
NDFP peace panel chair Fidel Agcaoili posed no objection to the proposal as long as the commitment to release the political prisoners was honored.
At the closing ceremony, the parties signed a six-page document titled Joint Statement on the Second Round of Talks Between the GRP and the NDFP.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/824072/2nd-round-of-peace-talks-ends-on-a-high-in-oslo
Kapampangan vets get medical services, medicines from VMMC
From the Sun Star-Pampanga (Oct 10): Kapampangan vets get medical services, medicines from VMMC
War veterans and Armed Forces of the Philippines veterans in Pampanga were able to avail of medical check-ups and medicines from the hospital staff and doctors during Monday's program at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.
It was a medical mission and symposium made possible through the effort of the Pampanga provincial government and the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).
The event, which was attended by veterans and their dependents, was keynoted by Governor Lilia Pineda and Pampanga Second District Representative and Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The event was aimed at bringing medical services closer to veterans and their dependents and also to update dependents and veterans of the new programs of the VMMC.
During the event, the veterans were able to avail of medical consultation, dental check-up, eye examination and ECG, among others. A help desk was also available where concerns of veterans regarding pensions, IDs and re-validation will be processed.
Arroyo, who was previously under hospital arrest at the VMMC for many months, said that she was happy that VMMC is reaching out to veterans as she added that veterans need all the medical support they need as pensions and other benefits are not enough to meet ballooning hospital costs and medicines.
VMCC Medical Professional Staff Dr. Dominador Chiong Jr. said that it has been a clamor to build more VMMC hospitals in Mindanao, Visayas and in Luzon outside Metro Manila to enable other veterans easy access to hospital services.
Chiong said that they are currently partnering with government and other private hospitals for ways to cater to the needs of veterans.
According to Chiong, there are about 17,000 living World War II veterans and 424,000 retirees and their dependents in the whole country that are entitled to healthcare benefits at present. Every year, about 5,000 retirees are being added on the list.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2016/10/10/kapampangan-vets-get-medical-services-medicines-vmmc-502733
War veterans and Armed Forces of the Philippines veterans in Pampanga were able to avail of medical check-ups and medicines from the hospital staff and doctors during Monday's program at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.
It was a medical mission and symposium made possible through the effort of the Pampanga provincial government and the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).
The event, which was attended by veterans and their dependents, was keynoted by Governor Lilia Pineda and Pampanga Second District Representative and Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The event was aimed at bringing medical services closer to veterans and their dependents and also to update dependents and veterans of the new programs of the VMMC.
During the event, the veterans were able to avail of medical consultation, dental check-up, eye examination and ECG, among others. A help desk was also available where concerns of veterans regarding pensions, IDs and re-validation will be processed.
Arroyo, who was previously under hospital arrest at the VMMC for many months, said that she was happy that VMMC is reaching out to veterans as she added that veterans need all the medical support they need as pensions and other benefits are not enough to meet ballooning hospital costs and medicines.
VMCC Medical Professional Staff Dr. Dominador Chiong Jr. said that it has been a clamor to build more VMMC hospitals in Mindanao, Visayas and in Luzon outside Metro Manila to enable other veterans easy access to hospital services.
Chiong said that they are currently partnering with government and other private hospitals for ways to cater to the needs of veterans.
According to Chiong, there are about 17,000 living World War II veterans and 424,000 retirees and their dependents in the whole country that are entitled to healthcare benefits at present. Every year, about 5,000 retirees are being added on the list.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2016/10/10/kapampangan-vets-get-medical-services-medicines-vmmc-502733
Phl Army tops shoot olympics among uniformed personnel
From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 11): Phl Army tops shoot olympics among uniformed personnel
Philippine Army (PA) topped the recently concluded AFP-PNP-PCG (Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police-Philippine Coast Guard) Shooting Combat Olympics which was held at Camp O’Donnell.
Training and Doctrine Command Commander Brigadier General Herminigildo Francisco Aquino said the annual competition seeks to bring out the competitive, camaraderie and spirit-de-corps among the three armed uniform services.
PA ranked Number 1 in the Over-All Pistol Championship Match followed by Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Navy (PN), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
PA likewise topped the Over-All Rifle Championship Match followed by PAF, PCG and PN.
“To the winners, victory must be tempered with humility,” Aquino said.
PA is set to compete in the 26th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet which will be held in Camp O’Donnell from November 21 to December 7.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3341475694727/phl-army-tops-shoot-olympics-among-uniformed-personnel
Philippine Army (PA) topped the recently concluded AFP-PNP-PCG (Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police-Philippine Coast Guard) Shooting Combat Olympics which was held at Camp O’Donnell.
Training and Doctrine Command Commander Brigadier General Herminigildo Francisco Aquino said the annual competition seeks to bring out the competitive, camaraderie and spirit-de-corps among the three armed uniform services.
PA ranked Number 1 in the Over-All Pistol Championship Match followed by Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Navy (PN), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
PA likewise topped the Over-All Rifle Championship Match followed by PAF, PCG and PN.
“To the winners, victory must be tempered with humility,” Aquino said.
PA is set to compete in the 26th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet which will be held in Camp O’Donnell from November 21 to December 7.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3341475694727/phl-army-tops-shoot-olympics-among-uniformed-personnel
Lacson suggests ’15-85′ principle to enhance military peacekeeping, defense duties
From Update.Ph (Oct 11): Lacson suggests ’15-85′ principle to enhance military peacekeeping, defense duties
A former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and Philippine Military Academy (PMA) batch 1971, Senator Panfilo M. Lacson suggested today at the budget hearing of the Defense Department at the Senate to adopt the 15-85 formula that the PNP adopted nearly 20 years ago to make sure the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can fulfill its peacekeeping and defense duties.
“If I may suggest, ang ideal is 15-85,” Lacson said, referring to the ratio of personnel who should stay in headquarters and who should be deployed to the field.
He explained that this 15-85 formula applies not only to personnel but also to the deployment of logistics and maintenance and other operating expenses.
As PNP chief from November 1999 to January 2001, Lacson made sure 85 percent of police personnel and resources were deployed to the field, to maintain peace and order.
He said it is just as important that up to 85 percent of resources are also downloaded to the field, as the personnel there may be the first to face threats.
“Sila rin dapat gumagamit ng pondo, sa field – it worked sa PNP during my time,” he said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/lacson-suggests-15-85-principle-to-enhance-military-peacekeeping-defense-duties/10199
A former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and Philippine Military Academy (PMA) batch 1971, Senator Panfilo M. Lacson suggested today at the budget hearing of the Defense Department at the Senate to adopt the 15-85 formula that the PNP adopted nearly 20 years ago to make sure the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can fulfill its peacekeeping and defense duties.
“If I may suggest, ang ideal is 15-85,” Lacson said, referring to the ratio of personnel who should stay in headquarters and who should be deployed to the field.
He explained that this 15-85 formula applies not only to personnel but also to the deployment of logistics and maintenance and other operating expenses.
As PNP chief from November 1999 to January 2001, Lacson made sure 85 percent of police personnel and resources were deployed to the field, to maintain peace and order.
He said it is just as important that up to 85 percent of resources are also downloaded to the field, as the personnel there may be the first to face threats.
“Sila rin dapat gumagamit ng pondo, sa field – it worked sa PNP during my time,” he said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/lacson-suggests-15-85-principle-to-enhance-military-peacekeeping-defense-duties/10199
BRP Andres Bonifacio starting voyage to PH in few weeks
From Update.Ph (Oct 11): BRP Andres Bonifacio starting voyage to PH in few weeks
The second batch of BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) has arrived to United States October 7.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is the third Hamilton-class cutter to be commissioned in Philippine Navy (PN) service.
According to the official social networking account of created for BRP Andres Bonifacio, “in a few weeks time” the crew together with BRP Andres Bonifacio will be leaving the United States Coast Guard Alameda port in California and sail back home.
BRP Andres Bonifacio has a crew of 80 officers and naval personnel. She is expected to leave the US for her voyage home by first week of November.
Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna said the ship is expected to be in the Philippines by second week of December.
“She will pass by Hawaii and Guam for refueling and provisioning [before heading to the Philippines],” he added.
The USCGC Boutwell was retired from US Coast Guard service last March 16 and handed to the PN last July 21 (American time).
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/brp-andres-bonifacio-starting-voyage-to-ph-in-few-weeks/10225
The second batch of BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) has arrived to United States October 7.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is the third Hamilton-class cutter to be commissioned in Philippine Navy (PN) service.
According to the official social networking account of created for BRP Andres Bonifacio, “in a few weeks time” the crew together with BRP Andres Bonifacio will be leaving the United States Coast Guard Alameda port in California and sail back home.
BRP Andres Bonifacio has a crew of 80 officers and naval personnel. She is expected to leave the US for her voyage home by first week of November.
Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna said the ship is expected to be in the Philippines by second week of December.
“She will pass by Hawaii and Guam for refueling and provisioning [before heading to the Philippines],” he added.
The USCGC Boutwell was retired from US Coast Guard service last March 16 and handed to the PN last July 21 (American time).
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/brp-andres-bonifacio-starting-voyage-to-ph-in-few-weeks/10225
President Duterte to lead commissioning of Japan-made patrol vessel
From Update.Ph (Oct 11): President Duterte to lead commissioning of Japan-made patrol vessel
Philippine Coast Guard’s first Parola-class patrol vessel BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) is scheduled to be commissioned to Coast Guard service tomorrow, October 12 at Headquarters PCG, Port Area, Manila 3pm.
BRP Tubbataha arrived mid-August this year. President Rodrigo Duterte, as Guest of Honor and Speaker, will be leading the commissioning ceremony at the same time PCG’s 115th Founding Anniversary.
The Philippine government has ordered 10 Parola-class patrol vessels from Japan through the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) Phase I. Parola-class patrol vessel is a 44-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel (MRRV) built by Japanese shipbuilder Japan Marine United (JMU).
The MSCIP Phase I for PCG, providing 10 44-meter MRRVs, was awarded to JMU last year. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed Japanese ODA loan agreement with Philippine government to provide funding for the said project in December 2013.
The second Parola-class patrol vessel is expected to sail to the Philippines this December and will be named as BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402). Succeeding deliveries are expected every quarter until completion of 10 units in 2018.
Meanwhile, President Duterte has approved the acquisition of two (2) heavy weather, high endurance 94-meter MRRVs under the MSCIP Phase II.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/president-duterte-to-lead-commissioning-of-japan-made-patrol-vessel/10251
Philippine Coast Guard’s first Parola-class patrol vessel BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) is scheduled to be commissioned to Coast Guard service tomorrow, October 12 at Headquarters PCG, Port Area, Manila 3pm.
BRP Tubbataha arrived mid-August this year. President Rodrigo Duterte, as Guest of Honor and Speaker, will be leading the commissioning ceremony at the same time PCG’s 115th Founding Anniversary.
The Philippine government has ordered 10 Parola-class patrol vessels from Japan through the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) Phase I. Parola-class patrol vessel is a 44-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel (MRRV) built by Japanese shipbuilder Japan Marine United (JMU).
The MSCIP Phase I for PCG, providing 10 44-meter MRRVs, was awarded to JMU last year. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed Japanese ODA loan agreement with Philippine government to provide funding for the said project in December 2013.
The second Parola-class patrol vessel is expected to sail to the Philippines this December and will be named as BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402). Succeeding deliveries are expected every quarter until completion of 10 units in 2018.
Meanwhile, President Duterte has approved the acquisition of two (2) heavy weather, high endurance 94-meter MRRVs under the MSCIP Phase II.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/president-duterte-to-lead-commissioning-of-japan-made-patrol-vessel/10251
PH continues acquisition of 2 long-range patrol aircraft
From Update.Ph (Oct 11): PH continues acquisition of 2 long-range patrol aircraft
The Department of National Defense (DND) has announced that a pre-bid conference for its two long-range patrol aircraft (LRPA) projects has been set for Wednesday.
The pre-bid conference, to be held by the DND Bids and Awards Committee at the conference room, Basement Right Wing at the DND Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, was initially slated to be held last February 15 but was placed on hold due to the May 9 national elections.
Airbus Defence and Space Press Manager for Military Aircraft Kieran Daly previously confirmed in an email to Update.PH that they will be offering the C-295 for this project. The said aircraft has a variant equipped to effectively act as maritime patrol aircraft (MPA).
The Philippine Air Force is currently operating three C-295 aircraft, M variant, as medium lift aircraft.
The funds for the project, placed at PHP5,976,000,000, will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Modernization Trust Act Fund. Aside from the airframes, the contract includes sensors, sensor integration, mission support facilities and integrated logistics support package for the Air Force.
In a supplemental bid bulletin posted at the DND website, prospective bidders were told to submit aircraft designs with systems that allows autonomous operation.
“[The aircraft must] be equipped with a system that allows autonomous operation in remote bases ensuring electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic power on ground. The system must also be able to start the engines without ground support,” the bulletin said.
This means that the LRPA must be deployable in remote airfields lacking modern start-up facilities.
Aside from this, the airplanes must be equipped with a noise reduction system, which is capable of reducing both cabin vibration and noise and eliminate many of the buzzes and rattles that would otherwise be a major source of annoyance and distraction for surveillance and patrol mission crew.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/ph-continues-acquisition-of-2-long-range-patrol-aircraft/10201
The Department of National Defense (DND) has announced that a pre-bid conference for its two long-range patrol aircraft (LRPA) projects has been set for Wednesday.
The pre-bid conference, to be held by the DND Bids and Awards Committee at the conference room, Basement Right Wing at the DND Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, was initially slated to be held last February 15 but was placed on hold due to the May 9 national elections.
The Philippine Air Force is currently operating three C-295 aircraft, M variant, as medium lift aircraft.
The funds for the project, placed at PHP5,976,000,000, will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Modernization Trust Act Fund. Aside from the airframes, the contract includes sensors, sensor integration, mission support facilities and integrated logistics support package for the Air Force.
In a supplemental bid bulletin posted at the DND website, prospective bidders were told to submit aircraft designs with systems that allows autonomous operation.
“[The aircraft must] be equipped with a system that allows autonomous operation in remote bases ensuring electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic power on ground. The system must also be able to start the engines without ground support,” the bulletin said.
This means that the LRPA must be deployable in remote airfields lacking modern start-up facilities.
Aside from this, the airplanes must be equipped with a noise reduction system, which is capable of reducing both cabin vibration and noise and eliminate many of the buzzes and rattles that would otherwise be a major source of annoyance and distraction for surveillance and patrol mission crew.
http://www.update.ph/2016/10/ph-continues-acquisition-of-2-long-range-patrol-aircraft/10201
GRP to fast-track release of 3 convicted NDFP consultants
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 11): GRP to fast-track release of 3 convicted NDFP consultants
The government peace panel (GRP) assured the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) it will fast-track the release of the three convicted NDFP consultants.
In a joint statement, the GRP panel has affirmed its commitment to work for the release of Eduardo Sarmiento, Leopoldo Caloza and Emeterio Antalan in “expeditious and acceptable modes” through presidential clemency.
Judge Myra Bayot Quiambao of the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 203 sentenced
Sarmiento to 40 years in jail on December 11, 2013 for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Caloza and Antalan were convicted of murder on September 17, 2015 by the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 266 for allegedly killing one Kathlyn Ramos, an alleged “deep penetrating agent” from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, after six years of trial.
Both GRP and NDFP panels reviewed the circumstances and status of NDFP consultants protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
“The parties reviewed the Joint Oslo Statement dated June 15 and August 26, 2016 on the issue of the immediate release of detained prisoners listed by the NDFP, giving premium on those prisoners who will be released based on humanitarian grounds,” the joint statement said.
It added that they finalized the Revised Guidelines on the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Pardon during the second round of talks on October 6 to 9 in Oslo, Norway
http://www.mb.com.ph/grp-to-fast-track-release-of-3-convicted-ndfp-consultants/
In a joint statement, the GRP panel has affirmed its commitment to work for the release of Eduardo Sarmiento, Leopoldo Caloza and Emeterio Antalan in “expeditious and acceptable modes” through presidential clemency.
Judge Myra Bayot Quiambao of the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 203 sentenced
Sarmiento to 40 years in jail on December 11, 2013 for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Caloza and Antalan were convicted of murder on September 17, 2015 by the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 266 for allegedly killing one Kathlyn Ramos, an alleged “deep penetrating agent” from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, after six years of trial.
Both GRP and NDFP panels reviewed the circumstances and status of NDFP consultants protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
“The parties reviewed the Joint Oslo Statement dated June 15 and August 26, 2016 on the issue of the immediate release of detained prisoners listed by the NDFP, giving premium on those prisoners who will be released based on humanitarian grounds,” the joint statement said.
It added that they finalized the Revised Guidelines on the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Pardon during the second round of talks on October 6 to 9 in Oslo, Norway
http://www.mb.com.ph/grp-to-fast-track-release-of-3-convicted-ndfp-consultants/
Army officers undergo surprise drug test
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11): Army officers undergo surprise drug test
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, GAMU -- Setting an example to its soldiers against illegal drug use, the Army officers in this camp submitted themselves to a surprise drug test held Monday.
5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commander B/Gen. Paul Atal, together with his staff officers and unit commanders, underwent the drug test facilitated by the medical staff of the camp.
“Let us do our part as military officers and set a good example to our soldiers that we are free from illegal drugs,” Atal said.
He said the organization is guided as professionally disciplined to guard the sovereignty of the state and shall be looked up to as a model of all.
Atal said soldiers who are using illegal drugs have no place in the organization and he will cleanse the organization and dismiss any soldier found to be positive of illegal drug use.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=930359
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, GAMU -- Setting an example to its soldiers against illegal drug use, the Army officers in this camp submitted themselves to a surprise drug test held Monday.
5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commander B/Gen. Paul Atal, together with his staff officers and unit commanders, underwent the drug test facilitated by the medical staff of the camp.
“Let us do our part as military officers and set a good example to our soldiers that we are free from illegal drugs,” Atal said.
He said the organization is guided as professionally disciplined to guard the sovereignty of the state and shall be looked up to as a model of all.
Atal said soldiers who are using illegal drugs have no place in the organization and he will cleanse the organization and dismiss any soldier found to be positive of illegal drug use.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=930359
Troops, PDEA capture known drug personality in Lanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 11): Troops, PDEA capture known drug personality in Lanao
A known drug personality was captured following a shootout early Tuesday with combined military and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives in Lanao del Norte.
Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesperson, identified the arrested drug personality as Ismael Matuan Sarip, who was wounded during the shootout.
Tan said the troops seized from Sarip following a shootout around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday the following: three sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride locally known as shabu worth PhP20,000; an M16A1 rifle (Baby Armalite), a shotgun, ammunition, PhP5,000 marked money and other documents.
He said Sarip was arrested by joint PDEA operatives of Region 10 and troops from the Army’s 4th Mechanized Battalion and 15th Infantry Battalion.
He said military troops continue to assist law enforcers in the intensified conduct of operations against illegal drugs here in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=930460
A known drug personality was captured following a shootout early Tuesday with combined military and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives in Lanao del Norte.
Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesperson, identified the arrested drug personality as Ismael Matuan Sarip, who was wounded during the shootout.
Tan said the troops seized from Sarip following a shootout around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday the following: three sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride locally known as shabu worth PhP20,000; an M16A1 rifle (Baby Armalite), a shotgun, ammunition, PhP5,000 marked money and other documents.
He said Sarip was arrested by joint PDEA operatives of Region 10 and troops from the Army’s 4th Mechanized Battalion and 15th Infantry Battalion.
He said military troops continue to assist law enforcers in the intensified conduct of operations against illegal drugs here in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=930460
PHL underscores rule of law in sharing counterterrorism best practices
President Duterte reiterates he has no intention to abrogate military alliances PHL underscores rule of law in sharing counterterrorism best practices
The Philippines highlighted the rule of law and the protection of human rights in sharing with the United Nations its recent experience and best practices in fighting the global scourge of terrorism, the Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said.
In her statement before the Sixth Committee (Legal) of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Lourdes Yparraguirre, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN, affirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to the fight against terrorism and emphasized the rule of law and human rights in the campaign to counter violent extremism using the “whole of nation” approach.
This approach engages non-traditional government agencies, the academe and the private sector as partners in the fight against terrorism.
The Ambassador informed fellow diplomats in the meeting that, “On ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law as the fundamental basis in fighting terrorism. The Philippines finalized earlier this year its Philippine National Counter Terrorism Strategy which is a product of a series of inter-agency workshops/writeshops and built upon four work streams, namely, Prevent, Protect, Prepare and Respond with the “whole-of-nation” and “rule of law-based” approaches as guiding principles.”
Yparraguirre also outlined the Philippines’ long-standing cooperation including with the UN on counterterrorism, including the UN Center for Counterterrorism (UNCCT) on the "Advance Passenger Information" (API) and/or "Passenger Name Record" (PNR) system, as convened by the Anti- Terrorism Council, which primarily want to address the “Foreign Terrorist/ Jihadist Fighters Phenomenon” (i.e. travel for foreign nationals to Iraq or Syria to fight for DAESH), the same in relation to Article 9 of UNSC 2178 (2014) the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on developing and strengthening "National Frameworks for the Protection and Support for Victims of Terrorism Within the Criminal Justice Framework," the UN Inter-Regional Criminal and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) on "Biological Materials of Concern Write-Shop" consistent with the Philippines’ obligations under the Biological Weapons Convention, and with the Global Initiative on Combating Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT) under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Other relevant initiatives and accomplishments of the Philippines include harnessing the potentials of women, the youth, and Muslim leaders and teachers in coming up with a sort of a national network and a positive force for moderation, peace, democracy, and development; enacting the landmark Strategic Trade Management Act (Republic Act No. 10697) which seeks to uphold national security and support counterterrorism by preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the country; establishing the Chemical-Biological-Radiological-Nuclear (CBRN) Center of Excellence Regional Headquarters in Manila; and training law enforcement and security experts in refining the country’s Manual on Collaborative Intelligence, Investigation and Prosecution of Terrorism-Related Cases.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930409
The Philippines highlighted the rule of law and the protection of human rights in sharing with the United Nations its recent experience and best practices in fighting the global scourge of terrorism, the Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said.
In her statement before the Sixth Committee (Legal) of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Lourdes Yparraguirre, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN, affirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to the fight against terrorism and emphasized the rule of law and human rights in the campaign to counter violent extremism using the “whole of nation” approach.
This approach engages non-traditional government agencies, the academe and the private sector as partners in the fight against terrorism.
The Ambassador informed fellow diplomats in the meeting that, “On ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law as the fundamental basis in fighting terrorism. The Philippines finalized earlier this year its Philippine National Counter Terrorism Strategy which is a product of a series of inter-agency workshops/writeshops and built upon four work streams, namely, Prevent, Protect, Prepare and Respond with the “whole-of-nation” and “rule of law-based” approaches as guiding principles.”
Yparraguirre also outlined the Philippines’ long-standing cooperation including with the UN on counterterrorism, including the UN Center for Counterterrorism (UNCCT) on the "Advance Passenger Information" (API) and/or "Passenger Name Record" (PNR) system, as convened by the Anti- Terrorism Council, which primarily want to address the “Foreign Terrorist/ Jihadist Fighters Phenomenon” (i.e. travel for foreign nationals to Iraq or Syria to fight for DAESH), the same in relation to Article 9 of UNSC 2178 (2014) the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on developing and strengthening "National Frameworks for the Protection and Support for Victims of Terrorism Within the Criminal Justice Framework," the UN Inter-Regional Criminal and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) on "Biological Materials of Concern Write-Shop" consistent with the Philippines’ obligations under the Biological Weapons Convention, and with the Global Initiative on Combating Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT) under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Other relevant initiatives and accomplishments of the Philippines include harnessing the potentials of women, the youth, and Muslim leaders and teachers in coming up with a sort of a national network and a positive force for moderation, peace, democracy, and development; enacting the landmark Strategic Trade Management Act (Republic Act No. 10697) which seeks to uphold national security and support counterterrorism by preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the country; establishing the Chemical-Biological-Radiological-Nuclear (CBRN) Center of Excellence Regional Headquarters in Manila; and training law enforcement and security experts in refining the country’s Manual on Collaborative Intelligence, Investigation and Prosecution of Terrorism-Related Cases.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930409
3 PN ships, 2 RAN vessels to participate in Exercise 'Lumbas'
From the Philippine News Agency (11): 3 PN ships, 2 RAN vessels to participate in Exercise 'Lumbas'
Three Philippine Navy ships (PN) and two vessels of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) will be participating in Exercise "Lumbas" which started Monday and will end on October 21.
Lt. Bennet Christian P. Nuevarez, Exercise "Lumbas" public affairs office chief, said the Australian ships are the HMAS Larrakia and HMAS Glenelg while the Filipino vessels are the BRP Abraham Campo, BRP Batak and BRP Agta.
"Lumbas" started in 1998 and is annual exercise between the PN and RAN.
BRP Abraham Campo is a Navarette-class gunboat while BRPs Batak and Agta are the former "Balikpapan" class landing craft heavies acquired from the RAN in 2014 and delivered in 2015.
While HMAS Larrakia and Glenelg are Armidable-class patrol boats of the Royal Australian Navy.
The maneuvers formally opened at 8:00 a.m. at Naval Forces Central, Naval Base Rafael Ramos, Barangay Lo-oc, Lapu-Lapu City.
Acting as keynote speaker and guest-of-honor was Central Command head Major Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario.
Exercise "Lumbas" aims to enhance inter-operability and strengthen partnership between the PN and the RAN and validate, enhance and evaluate combined/respective doctrines, techniques, tactics and procedures for threat from the sea, piracy and other scenarios.
Representatives from local and national government agencies such as the Regional Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bureau of Quarantine, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council and Cebu Port Authority were invited to participate in the command exercises and subject matter expert exchanges.
Nuevarez said at-sea exercises will be held off the Camotes Sea northeast Cebu while tabletop exercises will be held at Naval Forces Central headquarters in Toledo City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930417
Three Philippine Navy ships (PN) and two vessels of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) will be participating in Exercise "Lumbas" which started Monday and will end on October 21.
Lt. Bennet Christian P. Nuevarez, Exercise "Lumbas" public affairs office chief, said the Australian ships are the HMAS Larrakia and HMAS Glenelg while the Filipino vessels are the BRP Abraham Campo, BRP Batak and BRP Agta.
"Lumbas" started in 1998 and is annual exercise between the PN and RAN.
BRP Abraham Campo is a Navarette-class gunboat while BRPs Batak and Agta are the former "Balikpapan" class landing craft heavies acquired from the RAN in 2014 and delivered in 2015.
While HMAS Larrakia and Glenelg are Armidable-class patrol boats of the Royal Australian Navy.
The maneuvers formally opened at 8:00 a.m. at Naval Forces Central, Naval Base Rafael Ramos, Barangay Lo-oc, Lapu-Lapu City.
Acting as keynote speaker and guest-of-honor was Central Command head Major Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario.
Exercise "Lumbas" aims to enhance inter-operability and strengthen partnership between the PN and the RAN and validate, enhance and evaluate combined/respective doctrines, techniques, tactics and procedures for threat from the sea, piracy and other scenarios.
Representatives from local and national government agencies such as the Regional Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bureau of Quarantine, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council and Cebu Port Authority were invited to participate in the command exercises and subject matter expert exchanges.
Nuevarez said at-sea exercises will be held off the Camotes Sea northeast Cebu while tabletop exercises will be held at Naval Forces Central headquarters in Toledo City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930417
PNP-CIDG hunting down ASG in Metro Manila
From the Philippine News Agency (11): PNP-CIDG hunting down ASG in Metro Manila
The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) is now hunting down t Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Metro Manila.
According to the PNP-CIDG, the ASG has two groups who have penetrated Metro Manila.
This was confirmed by the PNP-CIDG after a suspected Indonesian bomb expert who has direct links with the ASG terrorists was arrested.
The suspect was arrested in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City last Saturday, by virtue of a warrant of arrest and search warrant.
PNP-CIDG’s Anti-Transnational Crime Unit (ATCU) head, Chief Insp. Roque Merdeguia on Tuesday said that the mission of the said Abu Sayyaf bandits in Metro Manila has not yet been determined.
The PNP said that the arrest of Mohammad Amin, an Indonesian-trained bomber, was a big blow to the ASG.
Merdeguia added that they are continuously gathering information to arrest the other ASG members who are now in the metropolis.
He also urged the public to remain calm such that the PNP is also doing everything to arrest the ASG bandits who are out to sow violence.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930427
The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) is now hunting down t Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Metro Manila.
According to the PNP-CIDG, the ASG has two groups who have penetrated Metro Manila.
This was confirmed by the PNP-CIDG after a suspected Indonesian bomb expert who has direct links with the ASG terrorists was arrested.
The suspect was arrested in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City last Saturday, by virtue of a warrant of arrest and search warrant.
PNP-CIDG’s Anti-Transnational Crime Unit (ATCU) head, Chief Insp. Roque Merdeguia on Tuesday said that the mission of the said Abu Sayyaf bandits in Metro Manila has not yet been determined.
The PNP said that the arrest of Mohammad Amin, an Indonesian-trained bomber, was a big blow to the ASG.
Merdeguia added that they are continuously gathering information to arrest the other ASG members who are now in the metropolis.
He also urged the public to remain calm such that the PNP is also doing everything to arrest the ASG bandits who are out to sow violence.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930427
PNP: Security guards to be trained vs. terrorism
From the Philippine News Agency (11): PNP: Security guards to be trained vs. terrorism
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will be training security guards in fighting terrorist groups.
Senior Supt. Jose Mario Espino, PNP-Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (PNP-SOSIA) chief, on Tuesday said that they would also include counter-terrorism in the curriculum of the security guards.
As of now, Espino said the PNP included bomb identification in the curriculum of security guards because of bomb threats and the counter-terrorism curriculum will be added so that security guards would be able to help authorities in thwarting any attempts by the terrorist groups.
”Our training board has already convened and will include in their curriculum the anti-terrorism module,” Espino said.
”The profiling and malls are requiring additional training in their security personnel. They do not rely only on our basic training but they do this enhancement training. The guards are also trained on bomb threats and bomb identification parts,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930456
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will be training security guards in fighting terrorist groups.
Senior Supt. Jose Mario Espino, PNP-Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (PNP-SOSIA) chief, on Tuesday said that they would also include counter-terrorism in the curriculum of the security guards.
As of now, Espino said the PNP included bomb identification in the curriculum of security guards because of bomb threats and the counter-terrorism curriculum will be added so that security guards would be able to help authorities in thwarting any attempts by the terrorist groups.
”Our training board has already convened and will include in their curriculum the anti-terrorism module,” Espino said.
”The profiling and malls are requiring additional training in their security personnel. They do not rely only on our basic training but they do this enhancement training. The guards are also trained on bomb threats and bomb identification parts,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930456
PHIBLEX a success as PMC, USMC successfully integrate in week-long maneuvers
From the Philippine News Agency (11): PHIBLEX a success as PMC, USMC successfully integrate in week-long maneuvers
Despite ending a day earlier, US 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade commander Brig. Gen. John Jansen called the 33rd iteration of the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) a success as both sides have successfully integrated with each other during the week-long manuevers.
PHIBLEX started Oct. 4 and was originally scheduled to end on Wednesday but the annual exercises between the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and US Marine Corps (USMC) concluded on Tuesday due to previous commitment of senior military leaders.
"I would also like to say up front what a pleasure it has been working with Major General Andre Costales, the visionary Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps. Sir, I could not think of a finer Marine, a better Marine Corps Officer, or a better partner in which to engage in the endeavor over the past 10 months that has produced a truly remarkable PHIBLEX exercise and your Exercise Director, Brigadier General Maximo Ballesteros has done a wonderful job of making it all happen," he added.
Jansen stressed that the successful conclusion of the PHIBLEX exercises have showcased the brotherhood of the USMC and PMC and their inter-operability and effectiveness as a bilateral rapid response force.
"I have been impressed by the professionalism and capabilities of all of the forces involved. We learn from the Philippine Marines in their superior jungle warfare school and outstanding combat engineering skills as they learn from us on amphibious from the sea operations and integrated fire command and control," he added.
Around 1,400 US military personnel and 500 Filipino troops have participated in the event.
"Our training together as Marines makes us all better Marines and more capable as an inter-operable force that provides the capability that we might apply to our treaty obligations in the future whether it be in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, assistance in internal security, or in other times of crisis as determined by our two great nations," he concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930498
Despite ending a day earlier, US 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade commander Brig. Gen. John Jansen called the 33rd iteration of the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) a success as both sides have successfully integrated with each other during the week-long manuevers.
PHIBLEX started Oct. 4 and was originally scheduled to end on Wednesday but the annual exercises between the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and US Marine Corps (USMC) concluded on Tuesday due to previous commitment of senior military leaders.
"I would also like to say up front what a pleasure it has been working with Major General Andre Costales, the visionary Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps. Sir, I could not think of a finer Marine, a better Marine Corps Officer, or a better partner in which to engage in the endeavor over the past 10 months that has produced a truly remarkable PHIBLEX exercise and your Exercise Director, Brigadier General Maximo Ballesteros has done a wonderful job of making it all happen," he added.
Jansen stressed that the successful conclusion of the PHIBLEX exercises have showcased the brotherhood of the USMC and PMC and their inter-operability and effectiveness as a bilateral rapid response force.
"I have been impressed by the professionalism and capabilities of all of the forces involved. We learn from the Philippine Marines in their superior jungle warfare school and outstanding combat engineering skills as they learn from us on amphibious from the sea operations and integrated fire command and control," he added.
Around 1,400 US military personnel and 500 Filipino troops have participated in the event.
"Our training together as Marines makes us all better Marines and more capable as an inter-operable force that provides the capability that we might apply to our treaty obligations in the future whether it be in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, assistance in internal security, or in other times of crisis as determined by our two great nations," he concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=930498
MNLF: Under Duterte Government: Roadblocks to Achieving Mindanao Peace
Propaganda article posted to the Moro National Liberation Front Website (Oct 5): Under Duterte Government: Roadblocks to Achieving Mindanao Peace
OMBUDSMAN DIRTY TACTICS AGAINST MNLF CHAIRMAN NUR MISUARI
“Who are behind the ugly plot to discredit Chairman Prof. Nur Misuari of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Bangsamoro freedom fighters,” asked Reverend Absalom Cerveza in Facebook and Twitter?
Indeed, who are the unknown plotters now all-out to sour the relationship of the MNLF chairman and the first elected Mindanao-based President Rodrigo D. Duterte?
STRONG ADVOCACY FOR MINDANAO PEACE: Chairman Prof. Nur Misuari of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and President Rodrigo D. Duterte, who while still Davao City mayor, have from the beginning advocated for achieving durable Mindanao peace. While the Luzon-based political leaders only engaged in doubletalk to achieve “just and lasting” peace in Mindanao, the Duterte government has today a distinctive program to make a difference.
President Duterte has time and again said that “injustice” is the main cause of the conflagrating Filipino-Moro war in Mindanao, Sulu and Palawan (MINSUPALA). While still Davao City mayor, he recommended the possible establishment of a Bangsamoro nation under a Philippine federal government. He was always of the firm belief that Mindanao peace is truly possible with the personal involvement of MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari in the peace process.
It can never be denied that the previous Marcos, Aquino, Arroyo and Aquino III regime repeatedly betrayed Mindanao peace that has only prolong the Mindanao war for almost fifty years today.
OMBUDSMAN CONCHITA CARPIO-MORALES’ KIND OF INJUSTICE
It’s quite alarming that immediately after the MNLF leadership and the officialdom of Secretary Jesus Dureza-led Office of the Adviser of the Peace Process (OPAPP) announced the immediate MNLF-Duterte peace talks, present Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales suddenly emerged to come up with malicious “graft and malversation” charge against the MNLF chairman.
The malicious character assassination played by the captive Philippine media also cropped up after the MNLF freedom fighters assisted the Duterte government with the release of foreign kidnap victims by the Abu Sayyaf group.
KJARTAN SEKKINGSTAD OF NORWAY: The Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad and three others were kidnapped by unidentified criminals, who brought them to the kidnap-for-ransom Abu Sayyaf group in Jolo. Unlike the proud Aquino III administration that only used ‘peace process’ as a deceptive ploy, the present Duterte government sought the assistance of the MNLF freedom fighters to free from captivity the Norwegian and Indonesian kidnap victims.
Thus, it’s just shockingly surprising that the Aquino III regime-appointed lady Ombudsman, who recently was awarded by the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation for excellent government service, has suddenly come out from the legal “black box” accusing the MNLF chairman of “graft and malversation” practice while serving as ARMM governor in 2000.
It’s just quite baffling why Ombudsman Morales resulted to this dirty hand governmental tactic after tasting judicial defeat from further incarcerating former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The Aquino III regime, using the Department of Justice (DOJ) under Secretary Laila De Lima, schemed to arbitrarily charge, airport arrest and jail her for a crime lacking substantial evidence. The Supreme Court had no recourse but set her free to continue her legislative task in the Philippine Congress.
Furthermore, it’s quite mind-boggling that Ombudsman Morales has instantaneously come out from her so-called moral portal in discrediting MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari of a criminal practice that was proven non-existence by former Ombudsman Aniano A. Disierto. This is after 15 years from today. After the tenure of the Arroyo and Aquino III regime that really wanted to pin him down for America-copied “rebellion” charge.
Why is Ombudsman Morales now resulting to this hatchet dirty job of assassinating the revolutionary character of the patriarch of the MNLF-launched Bangsamoro people’s freedom struggle to regain independence and national self-determination for the colonized Tri-People (Lumad, Muslim and Christian) of Mindanao?
Is the colonialistic strategy of Ombudsman Morales part of the destabilization campaigns wage now by the discredited yellow-labelled Liberal Party (LP) bigwigs led by ex-President Benigno S. Aquino III and ex-DILG Secretary Manuel Roxas II, who have always been considered to possess a strong anti-poor and anti-Muslim attitude?
It is recalled that the MNLF chairman weighed on the last May 9 election by responding to the clamor of some Middle East OFWs to expose the hidden agenda of mass cheating by the Aquino III administration in order to rob the voting populace of their chosen government officials.
CHAIRMAN PROF. NUR MISUARI: The MNLF chairman was recipient of the “Felix Houphout-Boigny Peace Prize” awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) together with President Fidel V. Ramos in Senegal International Center, Dakar, in June 1998.
The MNLF chairman came out openly exposing the perceived shenanigans of Malacanang and Aquino III-appointed COMELEC chairman to disenfranchise the electoral result with the Smartmatic program of counting only votes for candidates of “LP/Daang Matuwid”, disregarding other political parties.
Indeed, based on the revelation of the OFWs, it was really strange why the COMELEC-registered Liberal Party (LP) had to use sample ballot-marked LP/Daang Matuwid where other political parties, such as Nacionalista Party (NP), Partido Demokratiko ng Pilipinas (PDP), etc., were explicitly using their political party trademarks. This has always been the political practice in all elections in the past.
Ombudsman Morales’ calculated move abruptly happened also after the MNLF chairman responded positively to the call for help by the Duterte government to assist in the release of foreign kidnap victims from the Abu Sayyaf captors.
OTHER NON-OMBUDSMAN UGLY PLOTTERS
On the inquisitiveness of the MNLF Peace Panel Spokesman Reverend Absalom Cerveza to unmask the other hidden players involved in discrediting MNLF Chairman Misuari, the revelations of some professional and youth sectors have to be told to out the truth.
Father Eliseo Mercado, the respected Cotabato Catholic priest, who once became assembly speaker of the Ramos government-created Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development (SPCPD) under Chairman Nur Misuari, critiqued once Secretary Jing Deles-led OPAPP for using some “recycled MNLF surrenderees” to prop-up the Aquino III regime’s deceptive policy of pushing forward Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
It was observed that the BBL project was only used by the Aquino III government in dividing the MNLF and MILF leadership and Bangsamoro people. After succeeding with the BBL project, it was conveniently designed by the Aquino regime to die its natural death in Philippine Congress with the mysterious sanctioning of the Mamapasano invasion.
NORWEGIAN KJARTAN SEKKINGSTAD AND CHAIRMAN NUR MISUARI WITH OTHER MNLF MUJAHIDIN: MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari mobilized thousand-strong MNLF freedom fighters in pressuring the Abu Sayyaf group to release Norwegian captive Kjartan Sekkingstad and three Indonesian nationals. The MNLF chairman acted on the appeal of the Duterte and Indonesian government to help free the foreigners from captivity by the Abu Sayyaf group.
Could these “recycled MNLF surrenderees” refer to the scandalous 15-Executive Council (EC) MNLF group that was created through the conspiracy of the Arroyo and Mahathir regime to divide further the MNLF leadership and freedom fighters?
Could this also include some Moro politicians, who have comfortably curried favor now with the Duterte government to land in sensitive jobs reserve for competent Bangsamoro professionals?
Could the non-Ombudsman opportunist plotters include the present ARMM officials, who were only “comelected” during the last May 9 election?
Post May election period, the awkward electoral result has been challenged as “fraud” and inflicted by mass cheating by LP/Daang Matuwid administration candidates. This included particularly the office of the vice-president, Philippine senate and 5-province Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
It was observed that the “recycled MNLF surrenderees” were used by both the Arroyo and Aquino III government in pursuing their colonial interest to hoodwink the people that they were committed in achieving Mindanao peace.
On this end, while the Arroyo administration utilized the 15-EC MNLF group to legitimize per se its deceptive objective to seek observer status in the OIC thereby erasing the MNLF permanent observer stature, the Aquino III regime used all the OPAPP-paid “recycled MNLF surrenderees” in propping up the BBL.
The BBL formula was also used to fool the OIC that the Manila government in conspiracy with the “money-conscious MNLF opportunists” was vigorously pushing for the congressional enactment of BBL. But the Aquino III regime never succeeded due to its duplicitous plan to create havoc with the Malacanang-conceived Mamapasano invasion that created gigantic uproar leading to the instant death of BBL.
The dying Aquino III regime tried hard to use the combined 15-EC MNLF group and the newly-formed Moro politicians group with their respective “self-proclaimed” chairmen to deceive the OIC and the Bangsamoro people. But, the dramatic OPAPP deception under Secretary Jing Deles never succeeded.
Now, with the emergence of MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari to take center stage again in the peace process under the patronage of the Duterte government, the “recycled MNLF surrenderees” have resulted to create stumbling blocks. They know too well that the entry of the MNLF chairman into active participation in the peace process would only expose their deceptive money-making strategy at the expense of Mindanao peace and the Bangsamoro people.
Thus, to serve the dirty purpose of isolating MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari from the Duterte government in the meaningful search for a peaceful Mindanao, the “recycled MNLF surrenderees” could be contriving now with the present ARMM officials, who owe their “comelection” to the discredited Aquino III regime.
Simply put, with the active involvement of Chairman Nur Misuari in the peace talks with the Duterte government, the MNLF leadership would demand the implementation of the international peace agreement embodied by the MNLF-OIC-GRP Jakarta Peace Agreements of September 2, 1996 signed under the Ramos government.
Thus, with the implementation of the 1996 peace agreement, the present ARMM officials would be compelled to file their liquidation papers for they would be accounted for the past years of managing the farcical ARMM that their benefactor, ex-President Benigno S. Aquino III, had publicly diagnosed as a “failed experiment.”
OMBUDSMAN-ARMM CONSPIRACY TO DERAIL POSSIBLE MINDANAO PEACE
It is now clearly noted that while still in government service, the “recycled MNLF surrenderees” and ARMM officials could easily use grease money to grab the ears of Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Rosales to destroy the character and credibility of MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari.
The MNLF chairman has been publicly given immunity by the Duterte government on the trumped up rebellion charge by the discredited Aquino III government. In fact, it was reported that the “warrant of arrest” is to be withdrawn by the Department of Justice under Secretary Aguirre.
But, the question now arises. Does the Duterte government believe in all the hogwash dished out by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales against the MNLF Chairman?
It is also quite puzzling that the captive Philippine media has joined the fray to malign the MNLF chairman by reporting that he recommended the participation of Abu Sayyaf in the prospective MNLF-Duterte government peace talks in the future. The news report has irked President Duterte no less.
Yet, the MNLF leadership never recommended this possible scenario because the MNLF learned along ago from former Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. that the Abu Sayyaf group was formed by the AFP military intelligence on the advice of General Alexander Aguirre and Navy Commander David Ruiz. The startling revelation was even reported in almost all Philippine tri-media.
Could this be an alarming bell that the Abu Syyaf group is an “invisible army” programed to spread “terrorism” in all areas in war-torn Mindanao? That it could operate its kidnapping activities easily anywhere in Mindanao and demand ransom money by millions because the loose group is just well protected by hidden hands in the Philippine military?
In the recent past, the hidden hand AFP involvement in Abu Sayyaf activities was also decried by former Jolo Mayor Atty. Hussein U. Amin. He was later rebuffed by former Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, who countered that some local Moro politicians were in cahoots with Abu Sayyaf group in kidnapping activities for ransom money.
However, the Bangsamoro people know well the real situation in Mindanao. They have the brightest hope now that Mindanao peace, security and public order under the Duterte government is possible.
On this promising note, will the Duterte government permit the Ombudsman and opportunist groups to derail again Mindanao peace that has been repeatedly betrayed by the Luzon-based political leaders?