Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 7): Conditions for extending the ceasefire
In the spirit of peace negotiations and to extend the unilateral ceasefire declaration, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the Filipino people insist that GRP President Duterte must end or suspend Oplan Bayanihan and the suppression operations against the people and their revolutionary movement.
He must order the Armed Forces of the Philippines to withdraw its armed combatants from the guerrilla zones and areas under the control of the revolutionary government. He must carry this out concurrently with fulfillment of his promise to free political prisoners en masse through an amnesty proclamation.
If he accomplishes this by January, Duterte can have the guarantee that the CPP will prolong its unilateral ceasefire declaration. It will further encourage the revolutionary forces to forge with it a bilateral ceasefire to boost accelerated negotiations for a just and lasting peace.
He must cast away his illusion that the GRP has exclusive dominion over the entire Philippines. The fact is, in significant parts of the country, there exist two governments which are at war with each other: the GRP and the people’s democratic government which the NDFP represents.
By continuing to forward-deploy his abusive troops and occupy peasant communities, he is pressing on the civil war and proving himself no different from the war freak Aquino and Arroyo regimes neither of which were interested in the peaceful resolution of the armed conflict.
The CPP commends all units of the New People’s Army (NPA) for standing by the Party’s unilateral ceasefire declaration. They have withstood and forbeared the continuing Oplan Bayanihan armed operations of the AFP within and around NPA guerrilla zones and base areas.
The CPP condemns the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for bullheadedly continuing to carry out armed hostile actions against the peasant masses and NPA units in the guerrilla zones and revolutionary areas. For the past three months, the AFP has practically observed no ceasefire.
The unilateral ceasefire declarations issued reciprocally by the GRP and the NDFP have persisted only because NPA units have chosen to carry out evasion maneuvers to avoid armed skirmishes with the AFP as well as combat troops of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Against the spirit of the reciprocal ceasefire declarations, the AFP leadership itself ordered its troops to continue with Oplan Bayanihan counter-insurgency operations. When confronted by people, its operating troops even make such claims as “only the NPA has a ceasefire.”
The CPP is utterly dismayed at the failure of GRP President Rodrigo Duterte to rein in the war dogs of the AFP. It is quite apparent that the order made by Duterte last August as commander-in-chief to the AFP to “be friendly with the revolutionary government” and with the CPP-NPA is an empty one considering that not a single area command of the AFP respected nor implemented this policy. On the contrary, the AFP continues to regard the CPP-NPA with extreme hostility.
During the entire course of the unilateral ceasefire, the AFP has deployed rmed units and maintained armed presence in centers of civilian communities in violation of the CARHRIHL and international protocols which protect the welfare of civilians in times of war.
Continuing Oplan Bayanihan counter-insurgency operations undermine the reciprocal unilateral ceasefire declarations. By deploying fully-armed units to the very heart of the NPA guerrilla zones and guerrilla bases, the AFP leadership wants its units to engage the NPA in armed skirmishes to force the ceasefire to an end. They know full well that the NPA can only evade and counter-maneuver so much.
The AFP’s forward troop deployments are preparations for an offensive in a vain attempt to crush the NPA and the wide and deep support it enjoys among the peasant masses.
If he presses on with the AFP’s deployment in the guerrilla zones and occupation of communities, Duterte will be virtually setting the stage for widespread armed clashes with the New People’s Army as Red fighters will be forced to engage in active defense and defend the people against abuses by the forward-deployed combat troops of the AFP. He will only have himself to blame if this forces the hand of the CPP to terminate its unilateral ceasefire declaration.
https://www.cpp.ph/conditions-extending-ceasefire/
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
CPP: Worsening violations of human rights
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 7): Worsening violations of human rights
Violations of human rights under the Duterte regime continue to worsen. All democratic forces must stand and defend civil and political rights and demand justice for the thousands of victims of extrajudicial killings as well as military abuses in the countryside and continuing political repression and persecution.
Despite his avowal of support for peace talks and for the CARHRIHL, he has allowed the AFP to continue its war of suppression with impunity. In the past six months, AFP combat units occupied and controlled barrios suspected to be base areas of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Several hundred thousand people have been subjected to various forms and degrees of military harassment. Peasant masses have been subjected to curfews, restrictions, interrogations, threats, intimidation and other abuses of civil and political rights. To them, there is practically no difference between the Duterte regime and the previous regimes in terms of military abuses.
Activists continue to be subjected to surveillance and harassment. Close to 20 have been arrested and charged with trumped-up criminal cases. He has also yet to correct the injustice done by the previous regimes against more than 400 political prisoners who continue to languish in jail over trumped-up criminal charges. On two successive days last October, protest demonstrations were violently dispersed by the military and police.
There are at least 16 cases of extra-judicial killings against activists, including peasants demanding land reform. In Compostela Valley, environmental anti-mining activist Joselito Pasaporte was killed last October 13. To downplay the killing of Pasaporte, he was described by the police as being a “drug personality”.
The tactic of linking cases of political repression to the war against drugs is increasingly being used by the AFP. In Kalinga, 73-year old retired NPA Red fighter Marcos Aggalao was arrested and accused of possession of illegal drugs. On October 4, four peasant activists in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan were arrested and accused of illegal drugs possession. To justify the conduct of hostile operations despite the ceasefire order, “peace and development” operations under Oplan Bayanihan are being described as part of the “war against drugs.”
Grave disregard of human rights in Duterte’s war against drugs
There is a grave disregard of human rights under the Duterte regime’s so-called war against drugs. In just less than six months, close to 5,000 people have been killed. Around half have been killed by police operatives in supposed arrest operations typically in urban slums.
These operations have been so contrived that reporters have practically come up with a report template where victims are described as having “resisted arrest” and in possession of a .38 caliber handgun and several packets of shabu. The general public has grown skeptical of such police reports, especially after the same template was used to explain away the celebrated case of Mayor Rolando Espinosa who was killed by police operatives while in a police jail in Leyte.
There are also the daily killings of supposed small-time drug users and peddlers and other petty criminals. It is, as if, there is a national network of death squads which are trying to outnumber each other’s killings and outdo each other in the tabloid news media with increasingly sick methods of murder and demented “cardboard messages”. Victims are invariably described as criminals in a subtle way of dismissing or even justifying the crime.
This orgy of drug killings has been set forth by Duterte’s display of total disdain for human rights. He has brazenly encouraged the police to carry-out gangland-style killings of suspected criminals with impunity. He has assured police officers of backing and has gone the extent of reinstating key officers of the PNP behind the Espinosa execution who were relieved for involvement in illegal drugs.
He fans extreme prejudice against drug users whom he has adjudged as social dregs and openly
encourages their summary killing. He chooses to be blind to the deep social and economic roots-unemployment, low wages, poverty and hunger-behind the problem of widespread drug addiction and insists on his killing spree.
He has arrogated judicial powers by coming-up with a so-called narco-list of supposed big drug lords and coddlers. He has practically upturned the universally accepted principle of the criminal justice system: he makes the accusations and demands those he accuse to prove their innocence. Duterte’s drug-tagging is a virtual death sentence which only he can lift.
He has employed this power to sow fear and demand obeisance and loyalty of police and military officers, as well as local and congressional politicians; as well as a tool to persecute his rivals and render them inutile. Duterte’s anti-drug war has become an additional arsenal in the factional rivalries among the ruling classes.
Demand justice and defend human rights
Amid continuing abuses of human rights by the Duterte government, the Filipino people must unite and demand justice for all victims of military and police abuses.
Duterte’s display of utter disregard for human rights must be denounced by the Filipino people. They must condemn his threats to include human rights organizations among the target of his anti-drug killings.
He must be opposed in his drive to employ the police and military to trample on human rights with impunity. He must be castigated for any plan to suspend the writ of habeas corpus or bring back martial law.
The Filipino people must unite to demand an end to the war of suppression. They must call for the immediate pull-out of AFP combat troops from their communities. They must raise the demand to free all political prisoners.
The friends and loved ones of victims of extrajudicial killings, including those killed in the course of the war against drugs, must raise their voices and demand justice and reparation from the Duterte government.
https://www.cpp.ph/worsening-violations-human-rights/
Despite his avowal of support for peace talks and for the CARHRIHL, he has allowed the AFP to continue its war of suppression with impunity. In the past six months, AFP combat units occupied and controlled barrios suspected to be base areas of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Several hundred thousand people have been subjected to various forms and degrees of military harassment. Peasant masses have been subjected to curfews, restrictions, interrogations, threats, intimidation and other abuses of civil and political rights. To them, there is practically no difference between the Duterte regime and the previous regimes in terms of military abuses.
Activists continue to be subjected to surveillance and harassment. Close to 20 have been arrested and charged with trumped-up criminal cases. He has also yet to correct the injustice done by the previous regimes against more than 400 political prisoners who continue to languish in jail over trumped-up criminal charges. On two successive days last October, protest demonstrations were violently dispersed by the military and police.
There are at least 16 cases of extra-judicial killings against activists, including peasants demanding land reform. In Compostela Valley, environmental anti-mining activist Joselito Pasaporte was killed last October 13. To downplay the killing of Pasaporte, he was described by the police as being a “drug personality”.
The tactic of linking cases of political repression to the war against drugs is increasingly being used by the AFP. In Kalinga, 73-year old retired NPA Red fighter Marcos Aggalao was arrested and accused of possession of illegal drugs. On October 4, four peasant activists in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan were arrested and accused of illegal drugs possession. To justify the conduct of hostile operations despite the ceasefire order, “peace and development” operations under Oplan Bayanihan are being described as part of the “war against drugs.”
Grave disregard of human rights in Duterte’s war against drugs
There is a grave disregard of human rights under the Duterte regime’s so-called war against drugs. In just less than six months, close to 5,000 people have been killed. Around half have been killed by police operatives in supposed arrest operations typically in urban slums.
These operations have been so contrived that reporters have practically come up with a report template where victims are described as having “resisted arrest” and in possession of a .38 caliber handgun and several packets of shabu. The general public has grown skeptical of such police reports, especially after the same template was used to explain away the celebrated case of Mayor Rolando Espinosa who was killed by police operatives while in a police jail in Leyte.
There are also the daily killings of supposed small-time drug users and peddlers and other petty criminals. It is, as if, there is a national network of death squads which are trying to outnumber each other’s killings and outdo each other in the tabloid news media with increasingly sick methods of murder and demented “cardboard messages”. Victims are invariably described as criminals in a subtle way of dismissing or even justifying the crime.
This orgy of drug killings has been set forth by Duterte’s display of total disdain for human rights. He has brazenly encouraged the police to carry-out gangland-style killings of suspected criminals with impunity. He has assured police officers of backing and has gone the extent of reinstating key officers of the PNP behind the Espinosa execution who were relieved for involvement in illegal drugs.
He fans extreme prejudice against drug users whom he has adjudged as social dregs and openly
encourages their summary killing. He chooses to be blind to the deep social and economic roots-unemployment, low wages, poverty and hunger-behind the problem of widespread drug addiction and insists on his killing spree.
He has arrogated judicial powers by coming-up with a so-called narco-list of supposed big drug lords and coddlers. He has practically upturned the universally accepted principle of the criminal justice system: he makes the accusations and demands those he accuse to prove their innocence. Duterte’s drug-tagging is a virtual death sentence which only he can lift.
He has employed this power to sow fear and demand obeisance and loyalty of police and military officers, as well as local and congressional politicians; as well as a tool to persecute his rivals and render them inutile. Duterte’s anti-drug war has become an additional arsenal in the factional rivalries among the ruling classes.
Demand justice and defend human rights
Amid continuing abuses of human rights by the Duterte government, the Filipino people must unite and demand justice for all victims of military and police abuses.
Duterte’s display of utter disregard for human rights must be denounced by the Filipino people. They must condemn his threats to include human rights organizations among the target of his anti-drug killings.
He must be opposed in his drive to employ the police and military to trample on human rights with impunity. He must be castigated for any plan to suspend the writ of habeas corpus or bring back martial law.
The Filipino people must unite to demand an end to the war of suppression. They must call for the immediate pull-out of AFP combat troops from their communities. They must raise the demand to free all political prisoners.
The friends and loved ones of victims of extrajudicial killings, including those killed in the course of the war against drugs, must raise their voices and demand justice and reparation from the Duterte government.
https://www.cpp.ph/worsening-violations-human-rights/
CPP/NDF: Pahayag sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Pakikipagkaisa sa mga Bilanggong Pulitikal
New People's Army propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 3): Pahayag sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Pakikipagkaisa sa mga Bilanggong Pulitikal
Ka Cleo del Mundo, Apolonio Mendoza Command NPA-Quezon
Ngayong Pandaigdigang Araw ng Pakikipagkaisa sa mga Bilanggong Pulitikal, ang Apolonio Mendoza Command ay sumusuporta sa pahayag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas na tumututol sa plano ng gubyernong Duterte na magpalaya lamang ng lilimampung bilanggong pulitikal sa pagtatapos ng Disyembre.
Makatarungan ang kahingiang palayain na agad lahat ang 432 natitirang bilanggong pulitikal alinsunod sa mga kaisahang nabuo sa nagaganap na Peace Talks mula pa Agosto.
Walang dahilan na manatili sa bilangguan ang sinuman dahil sa kanyang pampulitikang paninindigan. Habang mahimbing naman ang tulog ng mga pusakal na kriminal na promotor ng terorismo ng Oplan Bantay Laya at Oplan Bayanihan sa nakaraang dalawang rehimen, at ngayon ay ipinagpapatuloy ng gubyernong Duterte.
Nananawagan ang Apolonio Mendoza Command sa mamamayan ng Quezon na suportahan ang kampanya sa agarang pagpapalaya sa lahat ng bilanggong pulitikal, kabilang ang labing-apat na detenidong pulitkal mula sa lalawigan na sina:
1. Miguela Piñero
2. Rhea Pareja
3. Gemma Carag
4. Maria Maridel Torres
5. Margie Navia
6. Evelyn Legaspi
7. Jesus Abetria
8. Alberto Macasinag
9. Cenon Sambola
10. Eliseo Lopez
11. Dennis Ortiz
12. Alexander Perdeguerra
13. Sandino Esguerra, at
14. Dionny Borre
Hinahamon ng buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan si Pangulong Duterte na panindigan ang kanyang pangakong palalayain ang lahat ng bilanggo puitikal sa pamamagitan ng Presidential Amnesty Proclamation.
Huwag puro dakdak. Huwag putak-nang-putak. Be a man of your words!
Sa kabilang banda, makakaasa ang mamamayan ng Quezon na ang inyong Hukbo at buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan ay patuloy na tatalima sa mga itinakdang kaisahan ng nagaganap na Peace Talks.
Kasabay nito, ang Apolonio Mendoza command ay laging mataas ang kapasyahan na ipagtanggol ang base ng rebolsuyon mula sa anumang maitim na pakana ng Armed Forces of the Philippines na idiskaril ang Peace Talks.
Mabuhay ang mamamayang nakikibaka!
Palayain ang lahat ng Bilanggong Pulitikal!
Hindi Krimen ang Magrebolusyon!
https://www.cpp.ph/pahayag-sa-pandaigdigang-araw-ng-pakikipagkaisa-sa-mga-bilanggong-pulitikal/
Makatarungan ang kahingiang palayain na agad lahat ang 432 natitirang bilanggong pulitikal alinsunod sa mga kaisahang nabuo sa nagaganap na Peace Talks mula pa Agosto.
Walang dahilan na manatili sa bilangguan ang sinuman dahil sa kanyang pampulitikang paninindigan. Habang mahimbing naman ang tulog ng mga pusakal na kriminal na promotor ng terorismo ng Oplan Bantay Laya at Oplan Bayanihan sa nakaraang dalawang rehimen, at ngayon ay ipinagpapatuloy ng gubyernong Duterte.
Nananawagan ang Apolonio Mendoza Command sa mamamayan ng Quezon na suportahan ang kampanya sa agarang pagpapalaya sa lahat ng bilanggong pulitikal, kabilang ang labing-apat na detenidong pulitkal mula sa lalawigan na sina:
1. Miguela Piñero
2. Rhea Pareja
3. Gemma Carag
4. Maria Maridel Torres
5. Margie Navia
6. Evelyn Legaspi
7. Jesus Abetria
8. Alberto Macasinag
9. Cenon Sambola
10. Eliseo Lopez
11. Dennis Ortiz
12. Alexander Perdeguerra
13. Sandino Esguerra, at
14. Dionny Borre
Hinahamon ng buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan si Pangulong Duterte na panindigan ang kanyang pangakong palalayain ang lahat ng bilanggo puitikal sa pamamagitan ng Presidential Amnesty Proclamation.
Huwag puro dakdak. Huwag putak-nang-putak. Be a man of your words!
Sa kabilang banda, makakaasa ang mamamayan ng Quezon na ang inyong Hukbo at buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan ay patuloy na tatalima sa mga itinakdang kaisahan ng nagaganap na Peace Talks.
Kasabay nito, ang Apolonio Mendoza command ay laging mataas ang kapasyahan na ipagtanggol ang base ng rebolsuyon mula sa anumang maitim na pakana ng Armed Forces of the Philippines na idiskaril ang Peace Talks.
Mabuhay ang mamamayang nakikibaka!
Palayain ang lahat ng Bilanggong Pulitikal!
Hindi Krimen ang Magrebolusyon!
https://www.cpp.ph/pahayag-sa-pandaigdigang-araw-ng-pakikipagkaisa-sa-mga-bilanggong-pulitikal/
Benito Tiamzon: Duterte guaranteed EDCA’s revocation
From Update.Ph (Dec 6): Benito Tiamzon: Duterte guaranteed EDCA’s revocation
Communist Party of the Philippines leader Benito Tiamzon said over the weekend that President Rodrigo Duterte assured them during a meeting Friday, December 2 in Davao City that Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States will be revoked.
“That’s what we really talked about on Friday evening,” Tiamzon said in an interview with Davao Today Saturday. “He gave his guarantee that he will revoke it (EDCA).”
Tiamzon added that Duterte assured them that an independent foreign policy will be adopted. “Sabi niya tiyak yun na course of action habang siya ay Presidente,” he said.
The President met with National Democratic Front (NDF) Peace Panel members Fidel and Chit Agcaoili, Benito and Wilma Tiamzon in Davao City December 2.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/benito-tiamzon-duterte-guaranteed-edcas-revocation/11795
Communist Party of the Philippines leader Benito Tiamzon said over the weekend that President Rodrigo Duterte assured them during a meeting Friday, December 2 in Davao City that Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States will be revoked.
“That’s what we really talked about on Friday evening,” Tiamzon said in an interview with Davao Today Saturday. “He gave his guarantee that he will revoke it (EDCA).”
Tiamzon added that Duterte assured them that an independent foreign policy will be adopted. “Sabi niya tiyak yun na course of action habang siya ay Presidente,” he said.
The President met with National Democratic Front (NDF) Peace Panel members Fidel and Chit Agcaoili, Benito and Wilma Tiamzon in Davao City December 2.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/benito-tiamzon-duterte-guaranteed-edcas-revocation/11795
Air Force to formally accept two FA-50PH aircraft tomorrow
From Update.Ph (Dec 7): Air Force to formally accept two FA-50PH aircraft tomorrow
The Philippine Air Force is scheduled to formally accept the second batch of two (2) FA-50PH Fighter/ Surface Attack/ Lead-in Fighters Trainer Aircraft (F/SA/LIFTA) from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). These 2 aircraft with tail numbers 003 and 004 arrived December 1 at Clark Air Base
The aircraft will be accepted during a turn-over, and blessing ceremony at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base Grandstand in Pasay City on December 8, 2016 at 2:00 pm. National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will be attending as the Guest of Honor for the ceremony.
Upon arrival from South Korea, these aircraft undergone acceptance flight for three days by end-users test pilot with the presence of the Technical Inspection Acceptance Committee (TIAC) members.
There are currently nine Filipino pilots fully trained to fly the FA-50PHs. Three of these are instructor pilots and the remaining six are operational ones.
The PAF has 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth PHP18.9 billion. The remaining eight FA-50PHs are expected to be delivered this coming 2017 and 2018.
It will act as the country’s interim fighter until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/air-force-to-formally-accept-two-fa-50ph-aircraft-tomorrow/11818
The Philippine Air Force is scheduled to formally accept the second batch of two (2) FA-50PH Fighter/ Surface Attack/ Lead-in Fighters Trainer Aircraft (F/SA/LIFTA) from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). These 2 aircraft with tail numbers 003 and 004 arrived December 1 at Clark Air Base
The aircraft will be accepted during a turn-over, and blessing ceremony at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base Grandstand in Pasay City on December 8, 2016 at 2:00 pm. National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will be attending as the Guest of Honor for the ceremony.
Upon arrival from South Korea, these aircraft undergone acceptance flight for three days by end-users test pilot with the presence of the Technical Inspection Acceptance Committee (TIAC) members.
There are currently nine Filipino pilots fully trained to fly the FA-50PHs. Three of these are instructor pilots and the remaining six are operational ones.
The PAF has 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth PHP18.9 billion. The remaining eight FA-50PHs are expected to be delivered this coming 2017 and 2018.
It will act as the country’s interim fighter until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/air-force-to-formally-accept-two-fa-50ph-aircraft-tomorrow/11818
Navy sets arrival ceremony for BRP Andres Bonifacio on Friday
From Update.Ph (Dec 7): Navy sets arrival ceremony for BRP Andres Bonifacio on Friday
The Philippine Navy has scheduled to formally welcome BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) on December 9, 9 am at Pier 13, South Harbor in an arrival ceremony. National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will be attending as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is the country’s third Gregorio del Pilar-class frigate converted from US Coast Guard Hamilton class high endurance cutter. She is a sister ship of BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16).
She was acquired through US Excess Defense Article Program.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is expected to boost the Navy’s capability to conduct “territorial patrols” within the nation’s exclusive economic zone.
“FF-17 is a significant addition to the Navy’ inventory of ships in order to boost the conduct of territorial patrol missions within our EEZ,” Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna previously said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/navy-sets-arrival-ceremony-for-brp-andres-bonifacio-on-friday/11820
The Philippine Navy has scheduled to formally welcome BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) on December 9, 9 am at Pier 13, South Harbor in an arrival ceremony. National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will be attending as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is the country’s third Gregorio del Pilar-class frigate converted from US Coast Guard Hamilton class high endurance cutter. She is a sister ship of BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16).
She was acquired through US Excess Defense Article Program.
BRP Andres Bonifacio is expected to boost the Navy’s capability to conduct “territorial patrols” within the nation’s exclusive economic zone.
“FF-17 is a significant addition to the Navy’ inventory of ships in order to boost the conduct of territorial patrol missions within our EEZ,” Navy spokesperson Captain Lued Lincuna previously said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/navy-sets-arrival-ceremony-for-brp-andres-bonifacio-on-friday/11820
Philippines, South Korea take steps to broaden security cooperation
From Update.PH (Dec 7): Philippines, South Korea take steps to broaden security cooperation
Philippines and Republic of Korea (ROK) have expressed readiness to broaden bilateral security cooperation following the first official talks between the two countries’ top defense and military officials in Seoul during the visit of Philippine delegation headed by National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana to South Korea from November 24 to 27.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said Secretary Lorenzana proposed the broadening current defense and military engagements in the field of personnel training and education, and exploring possible joint exercises on disaster response and terrorism. Minister Han instructed his Joint Chiefs of Staff to look into the suggestion.
The two ministers also discussed further possibilities to boost the Philippines’ armed forces modernization plan.
Minister Han expressed appreciation to his counterpart for the Philippines’ support during the Korean War and subsequent reconstruction, as well as Korea’s current diplomatic efforts to counter the provocations of North Korea at the United Nations and other forums.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/philippines-south-korea-take-steps-to-broaden-security-cooperation/11829
Philippines and Republic of Korea (ROK) have expressed readiness to broaden bilateral security cooperation following the first official talks between the two countries’ top defense and military officials in Seoul during the visit of Philippine delegation headed by National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana to South Korea from November 24 to 27.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said Secretary Lorenzana proposed the broadening current defense and military engagements in the field of personnel training and education, and exploring possible joint exercises on disaster response and terrorism. Minister Han instructed his Joint Chiefs of Staff to look into the suggestion.
The two ministers also discussed further possibilities to boost the Philippines’ armed forces modernization plan.
Minister Han expressed appreciation to his counterpart for the Philippines’ support during the Korean War and subsequent reconstruction, as well as Korea’s current diplomatic efforts to counter the provocations of North Korea at the United Nations and other forums.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/philippines-south-korea-take-steps-to-broaden-security-cooperation/11829
Rody tells gov’t panel: No ceasefire, no release
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 7): Rody tells gov’t panel: No ceasefire, no release
President Rodrigo Duterte has given instructions to Labor Secretary and government chief peace negotiator Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello III and panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad to produce a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement before he will order a substantial release of detained communist rebels.
“Produce to me a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement and I will release them within 48 hours. You can take my word for it,” Bello quoted the president as saying.
The president later told Malacanang Palace employees that the government has already conceded far enough to the National Democratic Front.
But he also promised to release a number of elderly and sick detained rebels before Christmas Day.
“The president told us that once he receives even just a facsimile copy of the signed agreement, he will immediately order the release of communist rebels,” Bello likewise said.
Bello and Librado sought instructions from Malacanang after the president met with top rebel leaders Benito and William Tiamzon in Davao City on Friday evening.
In that meeting, the president said he would keep his campaign promise to release detained communist rebels.
The president, however, gave his latest instructions during the break of the cabinet meeting at the Palace Monday evening.
The government panel holding peace talks with the NDF has submitted a list of 200 prisoners who are eligible for release under the new guidelines of the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Parole (PCBREP).
Twenty-five (25) of them are elderly, sick and women.
The NDF claimed 434 rebels are still being held in different detentions all over the country.
Four rebels convicted for murder and kidnapping were already given presidential pardon as announced by the Secretary Bello Friday last week.
They were identified as Martin Villanueva, Bonifacio Suyon, Dindo Absalon and Rico Bodina. They have served sentence ranging from 18 to 26 years. All are farmers.
Ceasefire
Although both the government and the NDF have declared their own unilateral ceasefires, the two camps have been complaining of reports of violations from the field.
But Bello said until both panels agree to a set of guidelines, “there are technically no violations.”
The labor secretary said it is to the best interest of combatants from both sides and especially the civilians caught in the middle of the armed conflict that a “formal ceasefire is in place so that we can monitor any claims of violations.”
“Remember, one life saved is one more happy family,” the government chief negotiator said.
During the formal opening round of the peace negotiations, both the GRP and NDF panels agreed to submit drafts on bilateral ceasefire.
But the NDF later said the ceasefire is tied to the release of ‘political prisoners’.
President Duterte earlier ordered the release of 21 rebel leaders who now are acting as consultants of the NDF panel holding peace talks with the government.
The president made a campaign promise to reopen peace negotiations with the NDF, which is representing the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing the New People’s Army (NPA).
The Philippine government and the NDF will resume formal peace talks in January, possibly in Rome, Italy.
“The weather is a bit better in Rome than in Oslo, Norway,” Bello cited the reason for the change of talks’ venue.
The first two rounds of formal peace negotiations with the NDF under the Duterte administration were held in Norway whose government is facilitating the talks to put an end to nearly 50 years of armed rebellion in the Philippines.
The guerrilla war being waged by the CPP-NPA-NDF is now Asia’s longest running active insurgency movement. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141481000630/rody-tells-gov-t-panel-no-ceasefire-no-release
President Rodrigo Duterte has given instructions to Labor Secretary and government chief peace negotiator Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello III and panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad to produce a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement before he will order a substantial release of detained communist rebels.
“Produce to me a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement and I will release them within 48 hours. You can take my word for it,” Bello quoted the president as saying.
The president later told Malacanang Palace employees that the government has already conceded far enough to the National Democratic Front.
But he also promised to release a number of elderly and sick detained rebels before Christmas Day.
“The president told us that once he receives even just a facsimile copy of the signed agreement, he will immediately order the release of communist rebels,” Bello likewise said.
Bello and Librado sought instructions from Malacanang after the president met with top rebel leaders Benito and William Tiamzon in Davao City on Friday evening.
In that meeting, the president said he would keep his campaign promise to release detained communist rebels.
The president, however, gave his latest instructions during the break of the cabinet meeting at the Palace Monday evening.
The government panel holding peace talks with the NDF has submitted a list of 200 prisoners who are eligible for release under the new guidelines of the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Parole (PCBREP).
Twenty-five (25) of them are elderly, sick and women.
The NDF claimed 434 rebels are still being held in different detentions all over the country.
Four rebels convicted for murder and kidnapping were already given presidential pardon as announced by the Secretary Bello Friday last week.
They were identified as Martin Villanueva, Bonifacio Suyon, Dindo Absalon and Rico Bodina. They have served sentence ranging from 18 to 26 years. All are farmers.
Ceasefire
Although both the government and the NDF have declared their own unilateral ceasefires, the two camps have been complaining of reports of violations from the field.
But Bello said until both panels agree to a set of guidelines, “there are technically no violations.”
The labor secretary said it is to the best interest of combatants from both sides and especially the civilians caught in the middle of the armed conflict that a “formal ceasefire is in place so that we can monitor any claims of violations.”
“Remember, one life saved is one more happy family,” the government chief negotiator said.
During the formal opening round of the peace negotiations, both the GRP and NDF panels agreed to submit drafts on bilateral ceasefire.
But the NDF later said the ceasefire is tied to the release of ‘political prisoners’.
President Duterte earlier ordered the release of 21 rebel leaders who now are acting as consultants of the NDF panel holding peace talks with the government.
The president made a campaign promise to reopen peace negotiations with the NDF, which is representing the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing the New People’s Army (NPA).
The Philippine government and the NDF will resume formal peace talks in January, possibly in Rome, Italy.
“The weather is a bit better in Rome than in Oslo, Norway,” Bello cited the reason for the change of talks’ venue.
The first two rounds of formal peace negotiations with the NDF under the Duterte administration were held in Norway whose government is facilitating the talks to put an end to nearly 50 years of armed rebellion in the Philippines.
The guerrilla war being waged by the CPP-NPA-NDF is now Asia’s longest running active insurgency movement. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141481000630/rody-tells-gov-t-panel-no-ceasefire-no-release
Armed men burn 5 dump trucks, payloaders in Koronadal
From MindaNews (Dec 7): Armed men burn 5 dump trucks, payloaders in Koronadal
Some 20 heavily-armed men stormed the quarry site of Happy Living Realty and Development Corporation in Purok Aquino, Barangay Concepcion at past 7 p.m. Tuesday and set on fire five dump trucks and payloaders, Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City police chief, said Wednesday.
He said no one was hurt in the attack but the suspects torched two dump trucks and three payloaders in the area.
Citing accounts from the company’s workers and security guards, Condes said the armed men declared they were members of the New People’s Army ((NPA) upon entering the site.
The suspects immediately disarmed the security guards, poured gasoline on the five heavy equipment and set them on fire, he said.
The armed men also carted away the company’s computer monitor and a unit of Samsung cellphone, and a Cherry Mobile cellphone, two 12-gauge shotguns, a caliber .38 pistol issued to security guards of the Supreme and Specialist security agencies.
Before leaving the site, one of the suspects reportedly declared that the attack was due to the supposed failure of the company to pay revolutionary taxes to the rebel group.
“We’re currently looking at extortion as the primary motive,” Condes told reporters.
Prior to the attack, company officials and representatives claimed that they did not receive threats and demands for payment of a certain amount from any group, he said.
But a sister company of Happy Living Realty had received demands from supposed NPA rebels for payment of revolutionary taxes, Condes said.
“These companies actually have different owners but the suspects might have assumed that they are the same,” he said.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commanding officer of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, said they could not yet confirm whether the attack was staged by the NPA.
He said there are two active NPA units — Fronts 72 and 73 of the Far South Mindanao Revolutionary Committee — that presently operate in the area.
Leander said they are currently investigating the circumstances of the attack and in the process of identifying the suspects based on descriptions from witnesses.
“We will check later on with our database and get possible matches to back up the filing of charges against all those involved in the attack,” he said.
Leander said pursuit operations against the suspects are currently ongoing but stressed that they are strictly observing the standing ceasefire with the NPA in line with the ongoing peace process.
Koronadal City Mayor condemned the attack and urged authorities to conduct a deeper investigation on the matter.
“I want to get into the bottom of this, especially whether the NPA is really involved or if it was a simple case of extortion,” he said.
The mayor acknowledged that the incident might affect anew the image of the city among potential investors and tourists.
“This is a major incident so I asked help from higher authorities for resolution the soonest possible time,” he added.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/12/armed-men-burn-5-dump-trucks-payloaders-in-koronadal/
Some 20 heavily-armed men stormed the quarry site of Happy Living Realty and Development Corporation in Purok Aquino, Barangay Concepcion at past 7 p.m. Tuesday and set on fire five dump trucks and payloaders, Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City police chief, said Wednesday.
He said no one was hurt in the attack but the suspects torched two dump trucks and three payloaders in the area.
Citing accounts from the company’s workers and security guards, Condes said the armed men declared they were members of the New People’s Army ((NPA) upon entering the site.
The suspects immediately disarmed the security guards, poured gasoline on the five heavy equipment and set them on fire, he said.
The armed men also carted away the company’s computer monitor and a unit of Samsung cellphone, and a Cherry Mobile cellphone, two 12-gauge shotguns, a caliber .38 pistol issued to security guards of the Supreme and Specialist security agencies.
Before leaving the site, one of the suspects reportedly declared that the attack was due to the supposed failure of the company to pay revolutionary taxes to the rebel group.
“We’re currently looking at extortion as the primary motive,” Condes told reporters.
Prior to the attack, company officials and representatives claimed that they did not receive threats and demands for payment of a certain amount from any group, he said.
But a sister company of Happy Living Realty had received demands from supposed NPA rebels for payment of revolutionary taxes, Condes said.
“These companies actually have different owners but the suspects might have assumed that they are the same,” he said.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commanding officer of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, said they could not yet confirm whether the attack was staged by the NPA.
He said there are two active NPA units — Fronts 72 and 73 of the Far South Mindanao Revolutionary Committee — that presently operate in the area.
Leander said they are currently investigating the circumstances of the attack and in the process of identifying the suspects based on descriptions from witnesses.
“We will check later on with our database and get possible matches to back up the filing of charges against all those involved in the attack,” he said.
Leander said pursuit operations against the suspects are currently ongoing but stressed that they are strictly observing the standing ceasefire with the NPA in line with the ongoing peace process.
Koronadal City Mayor condemned the attack and urged authorities to conduct a deeper investigation on the matter.
“I want to get into the bottom of this, especially whether the NPA is really involved or if it was a simple case of extortion,” he said.
The mayor acknowledged that the incident might affect anew the image of the city among potential investors and tourists.
“This is a major incident so I asked help from higher authorities for resolution the soonest possible time,” he added.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/12/armed-men-burn-5-dump-trucks-payloaders-in-koronadal/
PH Army suffers 1st death in 'Butig 3'
From Rappler (Dec 7): PH Army suffers 1st death in 'Butig 3'
The military says 63 members of the Maute Group have been killed while 17 others are wounded
http://www.rappler.com/nation/154770-scout-ranger-dies-butig
The military says 63 members of the Maute Group have been killed while 17 others are wounded
3RD OFFENSIVE. The latest attack against Maute in Butig, Lanao del Sur is the 3rd military offensive against the local terror group this year. Photo by Pat S. Roque/Rappler
An army scout ranger was killed in clashes with Maute militants on Monday, December 5, as the military continues operations to clear the small town of Butig in Lanao del Sur of the presence of the local terrorist group.
The elite soldier, whose name has yet to be released, is the first to die on the military side since it launched the offensive dubbed "Butig 3" – the 3rd major attack against the Maute group this year.
The soldier, part of the First Scout Ranger Company, was killed in an armed confrontation with the Maute group in Sitio Makalupog in Barangay Sandab, according to Butig ground commander Colonel Rosseler Murillo.
Adjacent to a camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Barangay Sandab is home to many members of the Muslim rebel group talking peace with the Philippine government.
The Maute group had been trying to seek refuge near MILF areas to take advantage of the peace talks, confident that the military will not attack MILF areas. (READ: Maute taking refuge near MILF areas in Butig)
The military said the scout rangers encountered about 20 members of the Maute group there. A firefight ensued.
Military reports show up to 38 soldiers have been wounded since the military offensive was launched November 24. On the part of the Maute group, the military said 63 of them have been killed while 17 others have been wounded.
Inspired by foreign terrorist group Islamic State (ISIS), the Maute group seeks to establish an Islamic caliphate in Mindanao.
They occupied 10 hectares of Butig town and raised ISIS' black flag at the abandoned municipal hall. It took the military 6 days to regain control of the building.
The military continues to hunt down the leaders of the Maute group. (READ: PNP, AFP raid Maute compound in Marawi City)
President Rodrigo Duterte also offered peace talks to the Maute group.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/154770-scout-ranger-dies-butig
Rebel hunter Año is new AFP chief (Photo & Bio Data)
From Rappler (Dec 7): Rebel hunter Año is new AFP chief
Lieutenant General Eduardo Año is the natural choice to become AFP chief but he will have a short term of 10 months
NEW AFP CHIEF. Lieutenant General Eduardo Año is the 3rd from the PMA Matikas Class of '83 to become the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Rappler photo
Philippine Army commanding general Eduardo Año, a veteran intelligence officer, is the new chief of staff of the 120,000-strong Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
He will replace General Ricardo Visaya, his classmate at the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983, during the change of command ceremony at 2 pm on Wednesday, December 7, in Camp Aguinaldo.
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed his appointment papers, Malacañang sources told Rappler Wednesday morning.
Año, one of the youngest in his batch, is the 3rd among the classmates to become AFP chief. The first was General Hernando Iriberri.
Año is the natural choice to become AFP chief, the most senior among contenders who already knows the ins and outs of the institution. It was evident during the recent budget hearings when defense officials counted on Año to respond to the queries of lawmakers.
10-month stint
But Año will have a short term of 10 months. He will retire in October 2017 when he reaches the retirement age of 56. He has a slightly longer term than his predecessor Visaya, who served for barely 6 months.
Año is a seasoned combat and intelligence officer. Before commanding the Army, Año was chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP) and later commanding general of the 10th Infantry Division based in Davao region. He had also served as commander of the Army's Intelligence Security Group (ISG.)
Año earned a perfect rating of 100% when he took in 1993 the International Officer Intelligence Course at the US military training school Fort Huachuca, Arizona. He is also a graduate of the Scout Ranger Course.
Rebel hunter
The new military boss excelled most in intelligence work, scoring some of the biggest arrests of communist leaders including the once elusive Communist Party of the Philippines chairman Benito Tiamzon whose face was unknown even to his comrades until his capture in March 2014. Tiamzon is now out of detention as part of the rebel panel holding peace talks with the Duterte administration. (READ: Tiamzons released for Oslo talks)
Año was credited for the neutralization of President Duterte's known friend, the Davao-based New People's Army (NPA) commander Leonardo Pitao alias Kumander Parago, who was killed in a military encounter in June 2015.
While some in the Duterte government, especially those in the Left, may have been against his appointment, Año had the firm backing of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Council chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr, who, as chief of staff under the Arroyo administration, worked closely with Año in the counter-insurgency campaign.
Año also led the hunt for retired Major General Jovito Palparan, who is accused of kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
Año's rise in the military hierarchy is not without controversy.
He was allegedly involved, during his stint at ISG, in the disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos during the administration of President Gloria Arroyo when the military was held responsible for the spate of killings and disappearances of political activists.
For this, Año's promotions were repeatedly blocked by Edita Burgos, the mother of Jonas, who tirelessly looked for her missing son if only so she could have a body to bury. Año denied any involvement in it and was eventually cleared by the courts. But the Court of Appeals ruled the military "accountable" for Burgos' enforced disappearance.
Año beats Guerrero
A decorated soldier, Año was awarded the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer). He received 4 Distinguished Service Stars, a Gold Cross medal for gallantry in combat, a Silver Cross Medal, 24 Bronze Cross medals for intelligence case operations, 36 Military Merit Medals, 10 Military Commendation Medals, a Silver Wing Medal, and other various awards including the PMA Cavalier Award.
Año bested Lieutenant General Rey Leonardo Guerrero, also a decorated general of PMA Class '84 who was previously believed to be a shoo-in for the post because of his closeness to President Duterte.
Guerrero is the commanding general of the military command in Duterte's home region, the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom). He also served as commander of Task Force Davao. (READ: AFP's new chief: Will it be Guerrero?)
Año's promotion leaves the post of Army chief vacant. Sources said AFP vice chief of staff Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda is eyed to be the new Army commanding general.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/154663-new-armed-forces-chief-philippines
Lieutenant General Eduardo Año is the natural choice to become AFP chief but he will have a short term of 10 months
NEW AFP CHIEF. Lieutenant General Eduardo Año is the 3rd from the PMA Matikas Class of '83 to become the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Rappler photo
Philippine Army commanding general Eduardo Año, a veteran intelligence officer, is the new chief of staff of the 120,000-strong Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
He will replace General Ricardo Visaya, his classmate at the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983, during the change of command ceremony at 2 pm on Wednesday, December 7, in Camp Aguinaldo.
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed his appointment papers, Malacañang sources told Rappler Wednesday morning.
Año, one of the youngest in his batch, is the 3rd among the classmates to become AFP chief. The first was General Hernando Iriberri.
Año is the natural choice to become AFP chief, the most senior among contenders who already knows the ins and outs of the institution. It was evident during the recent budget hearings when defense officials counted on Año to respond to the queries of lawmakers.
10-month stint
But Año will have a short term of 10 months. He will retire in October 2017 when he reaches the retirement age of 56. He has a slightly longer term than his predecessor Visaya, who served for barely 6 months.
Año is a seasoned combat and intelligence officer. Before commanding the Army, Año was chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP) and later commanding general of the 10th Infantry Division based in Davao region. He had also served as commander of the Army's Intelligence Security Group (ISG.)
Año earned a perfect rating of 100% when he took in 1993 the International Officer Intelligence Course at the US military training school Fort Huachuca, Arizona. He is also a graduate of the Scout Ranger Course.
Rebel hunter
The new military boss excelled most in intelligence work, scoring some of the biggest arrests of communist leaders including the once elusive Communist Party of the Philippines chairman Benito Tiamzon whose face was unknown even to his comrades until his capture in March 2014. Tiamzon is now out of detention as part of the rebel panel holding peace talks with the Duterte administration. (READ: Tiamzons released for Oslo talks)
Año was credited for the neutralization of President Duterte's known friend, the Davao-based New People's Army (NPA) commander Leonardo Pitao alias Kumander Parago, who was killed in a military encounter in June 2015.
While some in the Duterte government, especially those in the Left, may have been against his appointment, Año had the firm backing of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Council chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr, who, as chief of staff under the Arroyo administration, worked closely with Año in the counter-insurgency campaign.
Año also led the hunt for retired Major General Jovito Palparan, who is accused of kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
Año's rise in the military hierarchy is not without controversy.
He was allegedly involved, during his stint at ISG, in the disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos during the administration of President Gloria Arroyo when the military was held responsible for the spate of killings and disappearances of political activists.
For this, Año's promotions were repeatedly blocked by Edita Burgos, the mother of Jonas, who tirelessly looked for her missing son if only so she could have a body to bury. Año denied any involvement in it and was eventually cleared by the courts. But the Court of Appeals ruled the military "accountable" for Burgos' enforced disappearance.
Año beats Guerrero
A decorated soldier, Año was awarded the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer). He received 4 Distinguished Service Stars, a Gold Cross medal for gallantry in combat, a Silver Cross Medal, 24 Bronze Cross medals for intelligence case operations, 36 Military Merit Medals, 10 Military Commendation Medals, a Silver Wing Medal, and other various awards including the PMA Cavalier Award.
Año bested Lieutenant General Rey Leonardo Guerrero, also a decorated general of PMA Class '84 who was previously believed to be a shoo-in for the post because of his closeness to President Duterte.
Guerrero is the commanding general of the military command in Duterte's home region, the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom). He also served as commander of Task Force Davao. (READ: AFP's new chief: Will it be Guerrero?)
Año's promotion leaves the post of Army chief vacant. Sources said AFP vice chief of staff Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda is eyed to be the new Army commanding general.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/154663-new-armed-forces-chief-philippines
Ano is new AFP chief - sources
From InterAksyon (Dec 7): Ano is new AFP chief - sources
Army chief Lieutenant General Eduardo Ano will replace his Philippine Military Academy classmate General Ricardo Visaya as Armed Forces commander during turnover ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo Wednesday afternoon, informed sources said.
However, the designation only becomes official when President Rodrigo Duterte confirms this later in the day.
Ano will be the third member of PMA “Matikas” Class of 1983 to officially head the AFP. The first was retired general Hernando Irriberi.
But another classmate, current vice chief of staff Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda, who will replace Ano at the helm of the Army, served briefly as acting AFP commander before the May elections.
Visaya is bowing out of the service on reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
Among the other senior officers said to be contenders for AFP chief are Lieutenant General Ray Guerrero and Major General Benjie Madrigal.
Ano will be serving 10 months as AFP chief. He is set to retire in October next year.
He commanded the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, the Intelligence Service of the AFP and the Army's Intelligence Security Group.
It was as ISG commander that he was implicated in the abduction and enforced disappearance of Jonas Burgos, son of press freedom icon Jose Burgos Jr.
Although the Court of Appeals held the military accountable for Jonas’ disappearance, Ano himself was cleared by the courts and weathered attempts by Burgos’ mother Edita to block his appointment as general.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135025/ano-is-new-afp-chief---sources
Army chief Lieutenant General Eduardo Ano will replace his Philippine Military Academy classmate General Ricardo Visaya as Armed Forces commander during turnover ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo Wednesday afternoon, informed sources said.
However, the designation only becomes official when President Rodrigo Duterte confirms this later in the day.
Ano will be the third member of PMA “Matikas” Class of 1983 to officially head the AFP. The first was retired general Hernando Irriberi.
But another classmate, current vice chief of staff Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda, who will replace Ano at the helm of the Army, served briefly as acting AFP commander before the May elections.
Visaya is bowing out of the service on reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
Among the other senior officers said to be contenders for AFP chief are Lieutenant General Ray Guerrero and Major General Benjie Madrigal.
Ano will be serving 10 months as AFP chief. He is set to retire in October next year.
He commanded the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, the Intelligence Service of the AFP and the Army's Intelligence Security Group.
It was as ISG commander that he was implicated in the abduction and enforced disappearance of Jonas Burgos, son of press freedom icon Jose Burgos Jr.
Although the Court of Appeals held the military accountable for Jonas’ disappearance, Ano himself was cleared by the courts and weathered attempts by Burgos’ mother Edita to block his appointment as general.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135025/ano-is-new-afp-chief---sources
Armed men torch 5 heavy equipment in South Cotabato, police manhunt on
Armed men torch 5 heavy equipment in South Cotabato, police manhunt on
Police and military authorities here have launched manhunt against about 20 armed men who introduced themselves as communist rebels and torched five heavy equipment in an outskirt village Tuesday night.
Police have sought the help of village officials in running after the suspects who claimed they were New Peoples Army guerillas.
About 100 armed men surrounded the Happy Living Quarry Site in the borders of Barangay Conception and Magsaysay, disarmed the lone security guard and torched two dump trucks and three pay loaders.
It was the 9th arson case involving several heavy equipment and passenger buses in the SOCCSKSARGEN region since Nov. 13, police record showed.
Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City police director, told DXOM-AM Radyo Bida Koronadal, that three armed men approached security guard Carlo Baron of Supreme Security Agency at about 8 p.m. He was the lone security guard at the time of the attack.
Baron said the suspects were armed with long and short firearms.
"They told me they were only after the heavy equipment," Baron said. "At gunpoint, they took my firearm and other guns inside the bunkhouse."
"I have no idea why they burned our equipment, they did not told me why," he said.
Other armed men simultaneously doused gasoline and set on fire the quarry equipment then left.
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance Fuentes condemned the arson and expressed alarm over the rash of NPA atrocities.
“Why is this happening when there is supposedly government peace process with the communists and a ceasefire is in effect,” the visibly bothered Fuentes said.
“The hands of our security officials are tied because of the ceasefire and the peace talks the Duterte government is pushing with the communist rebels,” Fuentes said.
Four buses have been torched in South Cotabato and Sarangani since Nov. 13. Incidents of arson involving construction equipment in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Gen. Santos City were also reported by police.
“If these were not theirs, they should come out and declare they have nothing to do with it. But to date, no statement from the rebel groups,” she added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=946275
Police and military authorities here have launched manhunt against about 20 armed men who introduced themselves as communist rebels and torched five heavy equipment in an outskirt village Tuesday night.
Police have sought the help of village officials in running after the suspects who claimed they were New Peoples Army guerillas.
About 100 armed men surrounded the Happy Living Quarry Site in the borders of Barangay Conception and Magsaysay, disarmed the lone security guard and torched two dump trucks and three pay loaders.
It was the 9th arson case involving several heavy equipment and passenger buses in the SOCCSKSARGEN region since Nov. 13, police record showed.
Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City police director, told DXOM-AM Radyo Bida Koronadal, that three armed men approached security guard Carlo Baron of Supreme Security Agency at about 8 p.m. He was the lone security guard at the time of the attack.
Baron said the suspects were armed with long and short firearms.
"They told me they were only after the heavy equipment," Baron said. "At gunpoint, they took my firearm and other guns inside the bunkhouse."
"I have no idea why they burned our equipment, they did not told me why," he said.
Other armed men simultaneously doused gasoline and set on fire the quarry equipment then left.
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance Fuentes condemned the arson and expressed alarm over the rash of NPA atrocities.
“Why is this happening when there is supposedly government peace process with the communists and a ceasefire is in effect,” the visibly bothered Fuentes said.
“The hands of our security officials are tied because of the ceasefire and the peace talks the Duterte government is pushing with the communist rebels,” Fuentes said.
Four buses have been torched in South Cotabato and Sarangani since Nov. 13. Incidents of arson involving construction equipment in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Gen. Santos City were also reported by police.
“If these were not theirs, they should come out and declare they have nothing to do with it. But to date, no statement from the rebel groups,” she added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=946275
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): New American envoy expresses confidence on stability of US-PHL ties
The new US ambassador to the Philippines on Tuesday expressed confidence that the mutual respect, close economic ties and shared interests and values between the Philippines and the United States would ensure the stability of US-Philippine partnership.
Sung Kim, who presented his credentials to President Rodrigo Duterte earlier Tuesday, briefly met with Malacañang reporters and said that that he had a lengthy and substantive discussion with the President.
The new envoy arrived in Manila on December 3 and replaced Philip Goldberg as US Ambassador to the Philippines.
“It is an incredible honor for me to be in the Philippines to have this opportunity to contribute to one of America’s most enduring partnerships. Over the weeks, months and years ahead, I look forward to working closely with the Philippines’ government and Filipino people to expand our relationship and to engage in many areas of mutual interest,” Kim said.
The ambassador said that at the heart of US-Philippine partnership is the deep bond between the peoples of the two countries.
“There is indeed tremendous ‘kalooban’, the extraordinary spirit, warmth and strength in our relationship," he said.
Besides the close friendship and strong alliance between the Philippines and the US, Kim said that there also exists strong economic ties that are long-standing and extensive.
“This important relationship is, of course, based on mutual respect. I am confident that our mutual respect combined with the close ties and shared history and values will ensure stability in our relationship over the long term and the years and decades to come,” Kim said.
As the new American envoy, Kim said that he is “eager to get to know the Filipino people, to travel from the rolling hills of Batanes, to the beaches of Tawi-Tawi and to experience Philippines’ rich culture.”
Sung Kim is the first US ambassador to the Philippines with Asian heritage.
He was born in Seoul, South Korea in 1960 and moved to the United States in 1973.
He became a US citizen in 1980.
Kim earned a doctorate in law from Loyola University Law School in Los Angeles and a Masters of Law from the London School of Economics.
Prior to his appointment to the Philippines, Kim was the US Special Representative for North Korea Policy from November 6, 2014 to September 2016.
He was also the US ambassador to South Korea from November, 2011 to October, 2014.
Prior postings also included a stint as the US Special Envoy for the Six-Party Talks from mid-2008 to October, 2011 among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946195
The new US ambassador to the Philippines on Tuesday expressed confidence that the mutual respect, close economic ties and shared interests and values between the Philippines and the United States would ensure the stability of US-Philippine partnership.
Sung Kim, who presented his credentials to President Rodrigo Duterte earlier Tuesday, briefly met with Malacañang reporters and said that that he had a lengthy and substantive discussion with the President.
The new envoy arrived in Manila on December 3 and replaced Philip Goldberg as US Ambassador to the Philippines.
“It is an incredible honor for me to be in the Philippines to have this opportunity to contribute to one of America’s most enduring partnerships. Over the weeks, months and years ahead, I look forward to working closely with the Philippines’ government and Filipino people to expand our relationship and to engage in many areas of mutual interest,” Kim said.
The ambassador said that at the heart of US-Philippine partnership is the deep bond between the peoples of the two countries.
“There is indeed tremendous ‘kalooban’, the extraordinary spirit, warmth and strength in our relationship," he said.
Besides the close friendship and strong alliance between the Philippines and the US, Kim said that there also exists strong economic ties that are long-standing and extensive.
“This important relationship is, of course, based on mutual respect. I am confident that our mutual respect combined with the close ties and shared history and values will ensure stability in our relationship over the long term and the years and decades to come,” Kim said.
As the new American envoy, Kim said that he is “eager to get to know the Filipino people, to travel from the rolling hills of Batanes, to the beaches of Tawi-Tawi and to experience Philippines’ rich culture.”
Sung Kim is the first US ambassador to the Philippines with Asian heritage.
He was born in Seoul, South Korea in 1960 and moved to the United States in 1973.
He became a US citizen in 1980.
Kim earned a doctorate in law from Loyola University Law School in Los Angeles and a Masters of Law from the London School of Economics.
Prior to his appointment to the Philippines, Kim was the US Special Representative for North Korea Policy from November 6, 2014 to September 2016.
He was also the US ambassador to South Korea from November, 2011 to October, 2014.
Prior postings also included a stint as the US Special Envoy for the Six-Party Talks from mid-2008 to October, 2011 among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946195
BRP Ramon Alcaraz now in Cam Ranh, Vietnam for 6-day port visit
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): BRP Ramon Alcaraz now in Cam Ranh, Vietnam for 6-day port visit
BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16), one of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s most modern warships, has arrived in Cam Ranh, Vietnam Monday for six-day port visit which will also feature some interaction and training with their Vietnamese counterparts.
Major Wallie Sanaani, Naval Task Group 80 public affairs chief, said the 300 Filipino contingent aboard the BRP Ramon Alcaraz consists of the latter's crew, surface warfare students, medical team, naval special operations team, the ship's AgustaWestland AW-109 helicopter detachment and Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.5.
The Filipino frigate's visit to Vietnam will last Dec. 12. She is expected to participate in an exercise with the VPN, practicing drills for code for unplanned encounters as Sea (CUES), communication exercise (COMMEX), Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR).
He added the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) to PN delegation to show their warmest welcome to the visiting members of the PN.
NTG 80.5 head Capt. Dennis Rommel Quines also met with Navy Zone 4 vice commander Senior Capt. Vu Van Tien at the Cam Ranh International Port and they discussed about the program of activities during the visit.
The purpose of the visit is to maintain and strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two nations and strong partnership in the field of maritime security.
BRP Ramon Alcaraz left Pier Manila South Harbor for Vietnam last Dec. 2.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946173
BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16), one of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s most modern warships, has arrived in Cam Ranh, Vietnam Monday for six-day port visit which will also feature some interaction and training with their Vietnamese counterparts.
Major Wallie Sanaani, Naval Task Group 80 public affairs chief, said the 300 Filipino contingent aboard the BRP Ramon Alcaraz consists of the latter's crew, surface warfare students, medical team, naval special operations team, the ship's AgustaWestland AW-109 helicopter detachment and Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.5.
The Filipino frigate's visit to Vietnam will last Dec. 12. She is expected to participate in an exercise with the VPN, practicing drills for code for unplanned encounters as Sea (CUES), communication exercise (COMMEX), Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR).
He added the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) to PN delegation to show their warmest welcome to the visiting members of the PN.
NTG 80.5 head Capt. Dennis Rommel Quines also met with Navy Zone 4 vice commander Senior Capt. Vu Van Tien at the Cam Ranh International Port and they discussed about the program of activities during the visit.
The purpose of the visit is to maintain and strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two nations and strong partnership in the field of maritime security.
BRP Ramon Alcaraz left Pier Manila South Harbor for Vietnam last Dec. 2.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946173
Still no official word on next AFP chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): Still no official word on next AFP chief
There is still no official word on who will replace outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya who is scheduled to step down on Dec. 7.
This was disclosed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla when queried on Visaya's possible replacement.
"The AFP anxiously awaits the official announcement of the next CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP) who will replace Gen Ricardo Visaya. To date no official word has yet gone out," he said.
"As in previous changes in the AFP leadership, announcements are usually made at the last hour and adds to the anticipation and excitement of all our men and women in the AFP," Padilla pointed out.
The outgoing AFP chief is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983 and he started his term as AFP chief last July 1.
As this develops, all three star rank officers in the AFP are included in the list for Visaya's replacement.
This includes Army head Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano, Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina, Navy flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Joseph Roland Mercado, Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Leonardo Guerrero, Western Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo Dela Cruz, and AFP vice chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda and Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario.
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=8232530434323864555
There is still no official word on who will replace outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya who is scheduled to step down on Dec. 7.
This was disclosed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla when queried on Visaya's possible replacement.
"The AFP anxiously awaits the official announcement of the next CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP) who will replace Gen Ricardo Visaya. To date no official word has yet gone out," he said.
"As in previous changes in the AFP leadership, announcements are usually made at the last hour and adds to the anticipation and excitement of all our men and women in the AFP," Padilla pointed out.
The outgoing AFP chief is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983 and he started his term as AFP chief last July 1.
As this develops, all three star rank officers in the AFP are included in the list for Visaya's replacement.
This includes Army head Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano, Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina, Navy flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Joseph Roland Mercado, Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Leonardo Guerrero, Western Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo Dela Cruz, and AFP vice chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda and Central Command chief Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario.
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=8232530434323864555
New US envoy sees expansion of US-PHL ties
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): New US envoy sees expansion of US-PHL ties
Newly designated United States (US) Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim said he expects an expansion of bilateral relations between the US and the Philippines as he assumes his post.
"Over the weeks, months and years ahead, I look forward to working closely with the Philippines’ government and Filipino people to expand our relationship and to engage in many areas of mutual interest," Kim told reporters at a press briefing in Malacañan after presenting his credentials to President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, December 6.
Describing his first encounter with President Duterte, Kim said he had a "lengthy and substantive" discussion with the Filipino leader.
"I am very pleased to have presented my credentials to President Duterte just now... And I am grateful for the time that President Duterte afforded me today," he said.
"It is an incredible honor for me to be in the Philippines to have this opportunity to contribute to one of America’s most enduring partnerships," he added.
In addition to the close friendship and strong alliance between the US and the Philippines, Kim said the two countries have strong economic ties that are long-standing and extensive and these open up a great potential in growing their two-way economic partnership.
"At the heart of that partnership is the deep bond between the peoples of our two countries. There is indeed tremendous 'kalooban', the extraordinary spirit, warmth and strength in our relationship," he further said.
Kim said he is confident that mutual respect combined with close ties and shared history and values of the two countries will ensure stability in relationship over the long term.
He, meanwhile, expressed eagerness to get to know the Filipino people and to visit tourist destinations in the country such as Batanes and Tawi-Tawi.
Kim is familiar with Asia, having served as a career member of the senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, a special representative for North Korea policy, and Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs at the US Department of State.
He also served as US Ambassador to Korea, political officer at the US Embassy in Tokyo, Japan; political officer in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, vice-consul of US Consulate in Hong Kong, among others.
The US envoy earned a doctorate in law from Loyola University Law School in Los Angeles and a Masters of Law from the London School of Economics.
Born in Korea in 1960, Kim moved to the US when he was 13 years old and became an American citizen in 1980.
Aside from Kim, other ambassadors who presented their credentials to the President were Dato Raszlan Abdul Rashid of Malaysia, Harald Fries of Sweden, Dr. Jozsef Bence of Hungary, John Holmes of Canada, Musaed Saleh Althwaikh of Kuwait, Gordon Kricke of Germany, Hamad Saeed Hamad Obaid Alzaabi of UAE and Johariah Wahab of Brunei.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946227
Newly designated United States (US) Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim said he expects an expansion of bilateral relations between the US and the Philippines as he assumes his post.
"Over the weeks, months and years ahead, I look forward to working closely with the Philippines’ government and Filipino people to expand our relationship and to engage in many areas of mutual interest," Kim told reporters at a press briefing in Malacañan after presenting his credentials to President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, December 6.
Describing his first encounter with President Duterte, Kim said he had a "lengthy and substantive" discussion with the Filipino leader.
"I am very pleased to have presented my credentials to President Duterte just now... And I am grateful for the time that President Duterte afforded me today," he said.
"It is an incredible honor for me to be in the Philippines to have this opportunity to contribute to one of America’s most enduring partnerships," he added.
In addition to the close friendship and strong alliance between the US and the Philippines, Kim said the two countries have strong economic ties that are long-standing and extensive and these open up a great potential in growing their two-way economic partnership.
"At the heart of that partnership is the deep bond between the peoples of our two countries. There is indeed tremendous 'kalooban', the extraordinary spirit, warmth and strength in our relationship," he further said.
Kim said he is confident that mutual respect combined with close ties and shared history and values of the two countries will ensure stability in relationship over the long term.
He, meanwhile, expressed eagerness to get to know the Filipino people and to visit tourist destinations in the country such as Batanes and Tawi-Tawi.
Kim is familiar with Asia, having served as a career member of the senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, a special representative for North Korea policy, and Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs at the US Department of State.
He also served as US Ambassador to Korea, political officer at the US Embassy in Tokyo, Japan; political officer in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, vice-consul of US Consulate in Hong Kong, among others.
The US envoy earned a doctorate in law from Loyola University Law School in Los Angeles and a Masters of Law from the London School of Economics.
Born in Korea in 1960, Kim moved to the US when he was 13 years old and became an American citizen in 1980.
Aside from Kim, other ambassadors who presented their credentials to the President were Dato Raszlan Abdul Rashid of Malaysia, Harald Fries of Sweden, Dr. Jozsef Bence of Hungary, John Holmes of Canada, Musaed Saleh Althwaikh of Kuwait, Gordon Kricke of Germany, Hamad Saeed Hamad Obaid Alzaabi of UAE and Johariah Wahab of Brunei.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946227
More troops deployed in Abu Sayyaf-infested Sulu towns of Talipao, Patikul
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): More troops deployed in Abu Sayyaf-infested Sulu towns of Talipao, Patikul
More troops from Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu has been deployed in the towns of Patikul and Talipao in Sulu province as part of military's efforts to "win the hearts and minds" of residents in those areas known as enclaves of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group.
Col. Jesus Manangquil, JTF Sulu commander, said 11 platoons have been deployed to enhance ties between military and local government units (LGUs) in combating the terror threat, as well as ensure economic development of the province.
"We will be there to help our constituents to alleviate their lives and be more fruitful citizens," he said.
Under the "Bayanihan" program, military units are immersed in communities to provide assistance in livelihood, medical and dental care in partnership with LGUs and non-government organizations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946324
More troops from Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu has been deployed in the towns of Patikul and Talipao in Sulu province as part of military's efforts to "win the hearts and minds" of residents in those areas known as enclaves of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group.
Col. Jesus Manangquil, JTF Sulu commander, said 11 platoons have been deployed to enhance ties between military and local government units (LGUs) in combating the terror threat, as well as ensure economic development of the province.
"We will be there to help our constituents to alleviate their lives and be more fruitful citizens," he said.
Under the "Bayanihan" program, military units are immersed in communities to provide assistance in livelihood, medical and dental care in partnership with LGUs and non-government organizations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946324
PNP: Third suspect in foiled bombing near US embassy arrested
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): PNP: Third suspect in foiled bombing near US embassy arrested
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday presented to media the third suspect in the attempted bombing near the United States Embassy last Nov. 28.
In a press conference in Camp Crame, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Oscar Albayalde identified the suspect as Mohammad Jumao-as alias “Modie”, an X-ray technician and resident of Sta. Ana, Bulacan.
Albayalde said that Jumao-as’ arrest came after surveillance videos retrieved by the Manila Police District (MPD) showed that he was with Jiaher Guinar and Rayson Kilala alias “Rashid”.
Guinar and Kilala were arrested Wednesday last week for their alleged involvement in the foiled bombing attempt last Nov. 28.
Jumao-as, together with the two previously arrested suspects, were seen wandering in several areas in Luneta Park, Manila and the US Embassy hours before a street sweeper discovered the improvised explosive device (IED) in the early morning of Nov. 28, 2016.
Albayalde said that during Jumao-as’ arrest in Bulacan last Dec. 3, found in his possession were a 1911 Colt .45 caliber pistol and a fragmentation hand grenade, which were placed inside his black shoulder bag.
Jumao-as was charged with violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act”, before the Bulacan provincial prosecutor’s office in Malolos City.
A follow-up probe of the MPD showed that Jumao-as is also a member of the Al-Khalifa in the Philippines (AKP), a group reported to have ties with the Abu Sayyaf Group/Maute/Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946363
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday presented to media the third suspect in the attempted bombing near the United States Embassy last Nov. 28.
In a press conference in Camp Crame, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Oscar Albayalde identified the suspect as Mohammad Jumao-as alias “Modie”, an X-ray technician and resident of Sta. Ana, Bulacan.
Albayalde said that Jumao-as’ arrest came after surveillance videos retrieved by the Manila Police District (MPD) showed that he was with Jiaher Guinar and Rayson Kilala alias “Rashid”.
Guinar and Kilala were arrested Wednesday last week for their alleged involvement in the foiled bombing attempt last Nov. 28.
Jumao-as, together with the two previously arrested suspects, were seen wandering in several areas in Luneta Park, Manila and the US Embassy hours before a street sweeper discovered the improvised explosive device (IED) in the early morning of Nov. 28, 2016.
Albayalde said that during Jumao-as’ arrest in Bulacan last Dec. 3, found in his possession were a 1911 Colt .45 caliber pistol and a fragmentation hand grenade, which were placed inside his black shoulder bag.
Jumao-as was charged with violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act”, before the Bulacan provincial prosecutor’s office in Malolos City.
A follow-up probe of the MPD showed that Jumao-as is also a member of the Al-Khalifa in the Philippines (AKP), a group reported to have ties with the Abu Sayyaf Group/Maute/Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946363
1 soldier killed, 1 wounded in Lanao Del Sur clash Wednesday
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): 1 soldier killed, 1 wounded in Lanao Del Sur clash Wednesday
Another member of the 1st Scout Ranger Company was killed while another one was wounded following a clash with an estimated 60 members of the Maute Group in Lanao Del Sur Wednesday morning.
Western Mindanao Command Spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the incident took place around 7:10 a.m. at Barangay Sandab, Butig town.
"An armed confrontation ensued, resulting in the death of a soldier and wounding of another," Tan said.
Government forces are pursuing the Maute Group for its attack on Butig which started Nov. 26. A six-day military offensive drove the terrorists from the town on Dec. 1.
To date, 63 members of the Maute Group were killed and 17 wounded, while the troops suffered two killed and 39 wounded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946352
Another member of the 1st Scout Ranger Company was killed while another one was wounded following a clash with an estimated 60 members of the Maute Group in Lanao Del Sur Wednesday morning.
Western Mindanao Command Spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the incident took place around 7:10 a.m. at Barangay Sandab, Butig town.
"An armed confrontation ensued, resulting in the death of a soldier and wounding of another," Tan said.
Government forces are pursuing the Maute Group for its attack on Butig which started Nov. 26. A six-day military offensive drove the terrorists from the town on Dec. 1.
To date, 63 members of the Maute Group were killed and 17 wounded, while the troops suffered two killed and 39 wounded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946352
Provincial Training Heads commit continuous support to BDA
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 5): Provincial Training Heads commit continuous support to BDA
The Provincial Training Heads of BDA-CenMin expressed their commitment of continuing support to Bangsamoro Development Agency-Central Mindanao (BDA-CenMin) during the Trainers’ General Meeting held at Jasmin Street, Rosary Heights 6, Cotabato City last Thursday, December 1, 2016, Zuhaira Mangansakan, Information Communication and Learning Officer of BDA-CenMin said.
Expression of continuing commitment of support symbolized their unconditional dedication and strong volunteerism to help the BDA in its development interventions for the Bangsamoro and other concerned stakeholders in conflict- affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM), added Mangansakan.
In an interview by BDA-CenMin Communication Group (ComGroup) with Nadheer S. Esmael, Regional Training Head of BDA-CenMin, said, “This meeting was held with the aim in view of refreshing the commitment of continuing support of the Pool of Trainers of BDACenMin along with its mandates – to determine, lead and manage relief, rehabilitation and development in conflict- affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM).
Further, this meeting was participated not only by the provincial training heads but also by selected trainers of Regional Management Office of BDA-CenMin, added Esmael.
Their participation showed their continuing strong band of unity and loyalty to the leadership of BDA-CenMin and BDA-Central Management Office, in general, Esmael pointed out.
Abdulrasheed Ambil, Regional Manager of BDA-CenMin in his final message expressed his strong determination to sustain the development interventions of BDA to empower the Bangsamoro and other concerned community stakeholders.
In this regard, a pool of trainers of the agency is highly needed for it is in the forefront of BDA’s noble-purpose engagement, concluded Ambil.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/987-provincial-training-heads-commit-continuous-support-to-bda
The Provincial Training Heads of BDA-CenMin expressed their commitment of continuing support to Bangsamoro Development Agency-Central Mindanao (BDA-CenMin) during the Trainers’ General Meeting held at Jasmin Street, Rosary Heights 6, Cotabato City last Thursday, December 1, 2016, Zuhaira Mangansakan, Information Communication and Learning Officer of BDA-CenMin said.
Expression of continuing commitment of support symbolized their unconditional dedication and strong volunteerism to help the BDA in its development interventions for the Bangsamoro and other concerned stakeholders in conflict- affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM), added Mangansakan.
In an interview by BDA-CenMin Communication Group (ComGroup) with Nadheer S. Esmael, Regional Training Head of BDA-CenMin, said, “This meeting was held with the aim in view of refreshing the commitment of continuing support of the Pool of Trainers of BDACenMin along with its mandates – to determine, lead and manage relief, rehabilitation and development in conflict- affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM).
Further, this meeting was participated not only by the provincial training heads but also by selected trainers of Regional Management Office of BDA-CenMin, added Esmael.
Their participation showed their continuing strong band of unity and loyalty to the leadership of BDA-CenMin and BDA-Central Management Office, in general, Esmael pointed out.
Abdulrasheed Ambil, Regional Manager of BDA-CenMin in his final message expressed his strong determination to sustain the development interventions of BDA to empower the Bangsamoro and other concerned community stakeholders.
In this regard, a pool of trainers of the agency is highly needed for it is in the forefront of BDA’s noble-purpose engagement, concluded Ambil.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/987-provincial-training-heads-commit-continuous-support-to-bda
MILF: MILF Chair Murad, MNLF Chair Nur invited in Bangsamoro summit for unity, solidarity
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Website (Dec 6): MILF Chair Murad, MNLF Chair
Nur invited in Bangsamoro summit for unity, solidarity
The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) has invited Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Murad Ebrahim and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari to the 3-day Bangsamoro Multi-Sectoral Leaders’ Summit for Unity and Solidarity to be held at Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City on December 6-7, 2016.
The two Bangsamoro leaders will present their respective perspective on the Bangamoro Peace and Development Roadmap.
The organizer said it has been “conducting an advocacy campaign for unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders, especially the revolutionary Fronts towards a common draft law that would create/ strengthen the structure for self-governance in the exercise of the Bangsamoro’s right to self-determination.”
Since September this year, CBCS has conducted a series of provincial and regional consultations among Bangsamoro civil society organization (CSO) leaders in different areas in Mindanao. The summit culminates the regional consultations.
CBCS said the summit aims to strengthen unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders by creating a platform of cooperation that can serve as a venue for consensus-building towards a common peace agenda.
“Towards Creating a Platform for Consensus-Building Among Bangsamoro Stakeholders”I s the theme of the summit.
Around 120 summit delegates, all sectoral leaders, coming from different regions of Mindanao will discuss the current socio-political situation in Mindanao, particularly those related to the Bangsamoro peace processes vis-à-vis the proposed amendments to the Philippine Constitution from a unitary to a federal form of government.
They will also tackle the role of the youth in peace-building, especially in the on-going peace process and affirm the bases of unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders towards a common peace and development agenda.
The consolidation of the consensus points, including proposed action points, arrived at in the course of the provincial and regional consultation-workshops will also be undertaken.
The participants shall also create a common platform for engagement in the Bangsamoro peace processes and identify and prioritize doable activities towards the realization of the Bangsamoro people’ right to self-determination.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/22-davao-region/988-milf-chair-murad-mnlf-chair-nur-invited-in-bangsamoro-summit-for-unity-solidarity
Nur invited in Bangsamoro summit for unity, solidarity
The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) has invited Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Murad Ebrahim and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari to the 3-day Bangsamoro Multi-Sectoral Leaders’ Summit for Unity and Solidarity to be held at Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City on December 6-7, 2016.
The organizer said it has been “conducting an advocacy campaign for unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders, especially the revolutionary Fronts towards a common draft law that would create/ strengthen the structure for self-governance in the exercise of the Bangsamoro’s right to self-determination.”
Since September this year, CBCS has conducted a series of provincial and regional consultations among Bangsamoro civil society organization (CSO) leaders in different areas in Mindanao. The summit culminates the regional consultations.
CBCS said the summit aims to strengthen unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders by creating a platform of cooperation that can serve as a venue for consensus-building towards a common peace agenda.
“Towards Creating a Platform for Consensus-Building Among Bangsamoro Stakeholders”I s the theme of the summit.
Around 120 summit delegates, all sectoral leaders, coming from different regions of Mindanao will discuss the current socio-political situation in Mindanao, particularly those related to the Bangsamoro peace processes vis-à-vis the proposed amendments to the Philippine Constitution from a unitary to a federal form of government.
They will also tackle the role of the youth in peace-building, especially in the on-going peace process and affirm the bases of unity and solidarity among the Bangsamoro leaders towards a common peace and development agenda.
The consolidation of the consensus points, including proposed action points, arrived at in the course of the provincial and regional consultation-workshops will also be undertaken.
The participants shall also create a common platform for engagement in the Bangsamoro peace processes and identify and prioritize doable activities towards the realization of the Bangsamoro people’ right to self-determination.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/news/22-davao-region/988-milf-chair-murad-mnlf-chair-nur-invited-in-bangsamoro-summit-for-unity-solidarity
CPP/NDF: The people should not relent in demanding justice for political prisoners
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Dec 6): The people should not relent in demanding justice for political prisoners
NDFP Media Office
Statement from NDFP peace panel chair Fidel Agcaoili
December 5, 2016
Lest the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) brand the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) a temperamental brat, the NDFP reiterates its appreciation to President Rodrigo Duterte for exercising initiative and political will in effecting the release last August of 19 NDFP consultants and staff and enabling the peace negotiations to move forward.
That being said, there was also a clear understanding as early as May that the four remaining JASIG-protected persons held at the New Bilibid Prisons would soon be pardoned; that all the 400 plus political prisoners would walk free through general amnesty; and that the release of 130 sick and elderly political detainees would be prioritized for humanitarian reasons.
The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) likewise upheld all previously signed agreements, including the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which unequivocally defines the injustice underlying the continued detention of the political prisoners and the GRP’s obligation to rectify such injustice.
THREE MONTHS have passed since August, but NO OTHER political prisoners have been released through the peace process.
The NDFP takes exception to the OPAPP’s claim that freedom for political prisoners was “never possible nor even imaginable” under previous regimes and that the delays in their release have been due to the “processes (that) must be observed.” The truth is that there are many available modes that have already been used under the past regimes to release political prisoners, all in accordance with the GRP’s judicial processes.
It is a fact that once the President or other mandated or delegated authority so decides, a political prisoner can be released in a matter of days. OPAPP chief Jesus Dureza should be the first to know this, having been involved in the peace negotiations under previous administrations. The GRP peace panel members cannot feign ignorance about this either, since most of them are lawyers.
There is only one reason for the non-release: the political prisoners, including the sick and elderly, have been held hostage to pressure the NDFP into agreeing to a haphazardly drawn-up peace agreement that would redound to the revolutionary movement’s capitulation instead of addressing the roots of the armed conflict. Secretary Dureza’s threat to activists that “putting undue pressure on the government may not yield their intended results” has no other purpose than to insinuate that the GRP could drag its feet further or even scuttle the releases altogether if the people’s mass movement does not put a stop to its calls to free all political prisoners.
It is the NDFP that should be appalled at the utter bankruptcy of the GRP’s negotiating tactics which have already led to the death of Bernabe Ocasla, an elderly and ailing political prisoner whose long wait for justice ended tragically.
The families of political prisoners, human rights activists and advocates of just and lasting peace have every right to take to the streets and use other fora to protest and seek redress for grievances and denounce the GRP’s failure to comply with its obligation to give justice to the political prisoners. That is, unless Secretary Dureza is also implying that there is no more freedom of assembly and expression under the Duterte government. ###
Email: media@ndfp.org
Tel. + 31 30 2310431
https://www.ndfp.org/people-not-relent-demanding-justice-political-prisoners/
NDFP Media Office
Statement from NDFP peace panel chair Fidel Agcaoili
December 5, 2016
Lest the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) brand the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) a temperamental brat, the NDFP reiterates its appreciation to President Rodrigo Duterte for exercising initiative and political will in effecting the release last August of 19 NDFP consultants and staff and enabling the peace negotiations to move forward.
That being said, there was also a clear understanding as early as May that the four remaining JASIG-protected persons held at the New Bilibid Prisons would soon be pardoned; that all the 400 plus political prisoners would walk free through general amnesty; and that the release of 130 sick and elderly political detainees would be prioritized for humanitarian reasons.
The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) likewise upheld all previously signed agreements, including the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which unequivocally defines the injustice underlying the continued detention of the political prisoners and the GRP’s obligation to rectify such injustice.
THREE MONTHS have passed since August, but NO OTHER political prisoners have been released through the peace process.
The NDFP takes exception to the OPAPP’s claim that freedom for political prisoners was “never possible nor even imaginable” under previous regimes and that the delays in their release have been due to the “processes (that) must be observed.” The truth is that there are many available modes that have already been used under the past regimes to release political prisoners, all in accordance with the GRP’s judicial processes.
It is a fact that once the President or other mandated or delegated authority so decides, a political prisoner can be released in a matter of days. OPAPP chief Jesus Dureza should be the first to know this, having been involved in the peace negotiations under previous administrations. The GRP peace panel members cannot feign ignorance about this either, since most of them are lawyers.
There is only one reason for the non-release: the political prisoners, including the sick and elderly, have been held hostage to pressure the NDFP into agreeing to a haphazardly drawn-up peace agreement that would redound to the revolutionary movement’s capitulation instead of addressing the roots of the armed conflict. Secretary Dureza’s threat to activists that “putting undue pressure on the government may not yield their intended results” has no other purpose than to insinuate that the GRP could drag its feet further or even scuttle the releases altogether if the people’s mass movement does not put a stop to its calls to free all political prisoners.
It is the NDFP that should be appalled at the utter bankruptcy of the GRP’s negotiating tactics which have already led to the death of Bernabe Ocasla, an elderly and ailing political prisoner whose long wait for justice ended tragically.
The families of political prisoners, human rights activists and advocates of just and lasting peace have every right to take to the streets and use other fora to protest and seek redress for grievances and denounce the GRP’s failure to comply with its obligation to give justice to the political prisoners. That is, unless Secretary Dureza is also implying that there is no more freedom of assembly and expression under the Duterte government. ###
Email: media@ndfp.org
Tel. + 31 30 2310431
https://www.ndfp.org/people-not-relent-demanding-justice-political-prisoners/
Maute group taking refuge near MILF areas in Butig
From Rappler (Dec 6): Maute group taking refuge near MILF areas in Butig
The military says the Maute group is taking advantage of the peace process, confident that the military will not attack MILF areas
PEACE MECHANISM. Peace monitors were sent Butig after complaints that military offensive has gotten too close to MILF areas. Photo from the military
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed "concern" that the military offensive against the Maute group in Butig, Lanao Del Sur has gotten dangerously too close to its camps inside the town.
"That is a concern," chief MILF peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal told Rappler. MILF has several camps in the town where the local terror group inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS) raised the black flag of the global terror group.
The military claims the members of the Maute group have been attempting to take refuge near MILF areas to take advantage of the peace process, confident that the military will not attack MILF areas.
"We saw that. They feel safe. Baka hindi namin galawin (They think we will not touch them) because of the peace process. Maaring ganoon (It is possible). Gusto nila (They want to) drag [the] group na yun sa gulo na 'to (in the clashes)," said Colonel Rosseler Murillo, ground commander in Butig.
The MILF concern was raised on Saturday's (December 3) special session of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC), that gathered the town's residents. A local official sent by Butig Mayor Dimnatang Pansar to talk to the MILF relayed their concerns.
"Medyo malapit na bomba kagabi. Huwag masyado ilapit sa kanila. Pinakita nila sa akin mga tumama (The bombs were dropped their areas. It should not be too close. They showed me where they hit)," the emissary reported during the special session.
The International Monitoring Team (IMT), a mechanism under the peace process, sent its monitors to Butig the following day to check the situation.
Mistrust vs MILF
Some of the residents present at the special session claim some MILF members are helping the Maute. A resident complained how the MILF had prior knowledge about the military offensive against the Maute, citing how one of its members announced details of the attack on the radio.
Iqbal maintained that MILF commanders are not involved, but he cannot give an assurance that all their members have stayed away from the clashes.
"Commanders none. Elements, I don't know," Iqbal told Rappler. "Of course, we are not allowig our members to join the Maute group," he said.
The situation highlights the complicated situation in Butig, where most of the residents are relatives but are members of different groups. Blood ties may prevail when clashes erupt.
The MILF also asked the military not to pounce on houses in barangay Sandeb, where many of its members reside, especially when they are not meeting resistance there.
Murillo sought the assistance of the residents to guarantee that Maute members have not taken refuge in the barangay.
"Ang request ng Sandeb, huwag tirahin. Pero kung may magbabaril sa Sandeb, pwede. So siguraduhin natin na wala. Kailangan namin tulong niyo," said Murillo. (Sandeb is requesting that we don't hit the barangay. But if we are fired upon, we can respond. So let's make sure that there will be no resistance. We need your help.)
The military says the Maute group is taking advantage of the peace process, confident that the military will not attack MILF areas
PEACE MECHANISM. Peace monitors were sent Butig after complaints that military offensive has gotten too close to MILF areas. Photo from the military
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed "concern" that the military offensive against the Maute group in Butig, Lanao Del Sur has gotten dangerously too close to its camps inside the town.
"That is a concern," chief MILF peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal told Rappler. MILF has several camps in the town where the local terror group inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS) raised the black flag of the global terror group.
The military claims the members of the Maute group have been attempting to take refuge near MILF areas to take advantage of the peace process, confident that the military will not attack MILF areas.
"We saw that. They feel safe. Baka hindi namin galawin (They think we will not touch them) because of the peace process. Maaring ganoon (It is possible). Gusto nila (They want to) drag [the] group na yun sa gulo na 'to (in the clashes)," said Colonel Rosseler Murillo, ground commander in Butig.
The MILF concern was raised on Saturday's (December 3) special session of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC), that gathered the town's residents. A local official sent by Butig Mayor Dimnatang Pansar to talk to the MILF relayed their concerns.
"Medyo malapit na bomba kagabi. Huwag masyado ilapit sa kanila. Pinakita nila sa akin mga tumama (The bombs were dropped their areas. It should not be too close. They showed me where they hit)," the emissary reported during the special session.
The International Monitoring Team (IMT), a mechanism under the peace process, sent its monitors to Butig the following day to check the situation.
Mistrust vs MILF
Some of the residents present at the special session claim some MILF members are helping the Maute. A resident complained how the MILF had prior knowledge about the military offensive against the Maute, citing how one of its members announced details of the attack on the radio.
Iqbal maintained that MILF commanders are not involved, but he cannot give an assurance that all their members have stayed away from the clashes.
"Commanders none. Elements, I don't know," Iqbal told Rappler. "Of course, we are not allowig our members to join the Maute group," he said.
The situation highlights the complicated situation in Butig, where most of the residents are relatives but are members of different groups. Blood ties may prevail when clashes erupt.
Murillo sought the assistance of the residents to guarantee that Maute members have not taken refuge in the barangay.
"Ang request ng Sandeb, huwag tirahin. Pero kung may magbabaril sa Sandeb, pwede. So siguraduhin natin na wala. Kailangan namin tulong niyo," said Murillo. (Sandeb is requesting that we don't hit the barangay. But if we are fired upon, we can respond. So let's make sure that there will be no resistance. We need your help.)
Coast Guard chief, 24 others get 6-month preventive suspensions over alleged P67.5-M fund mess
From InterAksyon (Dec 6): Coast Guard chief, 24 others get 6-month preventive suspensions over alleged P67.5-M fund mess
Rear Admiral William Melad
Rear Admiral William Melad, the Philippine Coast Guard commandant, and 24 others, including a predecessor, were slapped with six-month preventive suspensions over an allegedly anomalous P67.5-million transaction, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales said on Tuesday.
Also suspended were retired admiral Rodolfo Isorena, the former PCG chief, Rear Admiral Cecil Chen, Commodores Enrico Efren Evangelista Jr. and Aaron Reconquista, Commanders John Esplana, William Arquero, Jude Thaddeus Besinga, Roben De Guzman, Angel Lobaton IV, Ferdinand Panganiban, Joselito Quintas, Ivan Roldan, Rommel Supangan, George Ursabia, Jr., Ferdinand Velasco, Wilfred Burgos and Allen Dalangin, Captains Joeven Fabul, Angelito Gil, Ramon Lopez, Christopher Villacorte, Lieutenant Junior Grade Mark Franklin Lim II, Lieutenant Mark Larsen Mariano, and accounting head Rogelio Caguioa.
Morales directed Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade to implement the suspension order.
The Coast Guard officers are facing charges of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service for using P67,533,289.73 in cash advances “to purchase office supplies and information technology equipment without complying with procurement regulations,” Morales said.
“Spurious liquidation documents were also presented indicating respondents’ fraud and misrepresentation,” she added.
Explaining the suspensions, Morales noted that “the respondents’ respective positions allow them to wield influence on possible witnesses and to access public records, (and) their continued stay in office may not only prejudice the cases against them but also allow them to commit further acts of malfeasance.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/134981/coast-guard-chief-24-others-get-6-month-preventive-suspensions-over-alleged-p67-5-m-fund-mess
Rear Admiral William Melad
Rear Admiral William Melad, the Philippine Coast Guard commandant, and 24 others, including a predecessor, were slapped with six-month preventive suspensions over an allegedly anomalous P67.5-million transaction, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales said on Tuesday.
Also suspended were retired admiral Rodolfo Isorena, the former PCG chief, Rear Admiral Cecil Chen, Commodores Enrico Efren Evangelista Jr. and Aaron Reconquista, Commanders John Esplana, William Arquero, Jude Thaddeus Besinga, Roben De Guzman, Angel Lobaton IV, Ferdinand Panganiban, Joselito Quintas, Ivan Roldan, Rommel Supangan, George Ursabia, Jr., Ferdinand Velasco, Wilfred Burgos and Allen Dalangin, Captains Joeven Fabul, Angelito Gil, Ramon Lopez, Christopher Villacorte, Lieutenant Junior Grade Mark Franklin Lim II, Lieutenant Mark Larsen Mariano, and accounting head Rogelio Caguioa.
Morales directed Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade to implement the suspension order.
The Coast Guard officers are facing charges of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service for using P67,533,289.73 in cash advances “to purchase office supplies and information technology equipment without complying with procurement regulations,” Morales said.
“Spurious liquidation documents were also presented indicating respondents’ fraud and misrepresentation,” she added.
Explaining the suspensions, Morales noted that “the respondents’ respective positions allow them to wield influence on possible witnesses and to access public records, (and) their continued stay in office may not only prejudice the cases against them but also allow them to commit further acts of malfeasance.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/134981/coast-guard-chief-24-others-get-6-month-preventive-suspensions-over-alleged-p67-5-m-fund-mess
No bilateral ceasefire, no release of political prisoners — Duterte
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): No bilateral ceasefire, no release of political prisoners — Duterte
There will be no release of a substantial number of detained communist rebels unless a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said.
“Produce to me a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement and I will release them within 48 hours. You can take my word for it,” a press release from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process quoted the president as having instructed government (GRP) peace panel chair Silvestre Bello III and panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad.
But the president vowed to work on the release of a number of elderly and sick political prisoners before Christmas Day.
In an interview last Sunday, Anakpawis Rep.. Ariel Casilao he said some 165 political prisoners, of whom 25 are elderly and 140 are sickly, will be released before Christmas Day.
“The president told us that once he receives even just a facsimile copy of the signed agreement, he will immediately order the release of communist rebels,” Bello said.
Bello and Librado sought instructions from Duterte after he met with NDFP consultants Benito and William Tiamzon here Friday evening where the president reaffirmed his promise to release political prisoners.
The OPAPP press release said about 20 prisoners are eligible for release under the new guidelines of the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Parole.
The NDFP claimed that 434 political prisoners are still being held in different detentions all over the country.
Last December 2, the OPAPP announced that Duterte had signed an order granting pardon to four rebels convicted for murder and kidnapping.
They were identified as Martin Villanueva, Bonifacio Suyon, Dindo Absalon and Rico Bodina.
Villanueva and Suyon were convicted for kidnapping while Absalon and Bodino served time for murder,. The NDFP said they have already served at least 18 years.
“These rebels have long been recommended for pardon but the previous government did not sign the draft order to release them,” Bello said.
The third round of formal peace negotiations will resume on the third week of January 2017 in a neutral venue.
Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Jesus Dureza said he has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to “walk the extra mile for peace” and assured that efforts have been undertaken for the release of the political prisoners.
But Dureza, in a statement, explained that necessary legal processes take time as the cases are within the jurisdiction of the judiciary which, he noted, is “an independent and co-equal branch.”
“Earnest efforts have been ongoing on the releases of prisoners…. We understand their angst and impatience but we are all forgetting that these efforts were never possible nor even imaginable in the previous times,” he said.
He said the Duterte administration has made the releases of political prisoners possible.
He added he is appalled by some sectors who criticized the GRP panel for “not delivering enough and for the perceived delay,” although he said they serve as good reminders that they need to do more.
“But putting undue public pressure on the government which has already taken unprecedented steps may not yield their intended results. President Duterte has exercised bold political will to quickly resuscitate the peace process from where it was. And he does so also mindful that there is a need to balance things taking into account the processes that must be observed and the whole citizenry that he must also engage and serve,” he said.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/12/no-bilateral-ceasefire-no-release-of-political-prisoners-duterte/
There will be no release of a substantial number of detained communist rebels unless a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said.
“Produce to me a signed bilateral ceasefire agreement and I will release them within 48 hours. You can take my word for it,” a press release from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process quoted the president as having instructed government (GRP) peace panel chair Silvestre Bello III and panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad.
But the president vowed to work on the release of a number of elderly and sick political prisoners before Christmas Day.
In an interview last Sunday, Anakpawis Rep.. Ariel Casilao he said some 165 political prisoners, of whom 25 are elderly and 140 are sickly, will be released before Christmas Day.
“The president told us that once he receives even just a facsimile copy of the signed agreement, he will immediately order the release of communist rebels,” Bello said.
Bello and Librado sought instructions from Duterte after he met with NDFP consultants Benito and William Tiamzon here Friday evening where the president reaffirmed his promise to release political prisoners.
The OPAPP press release said about 20 prisoners are eligible for release under the new guidelines of the Presidential Committee on Bail, Recognizance and Parole.
The NDFP claimed that 434 political prisoners are still being held in different detentions all over the country.
Last December 2, the OPAPP announced that Duterte had signed an order granting pardon to four rebels convicted for murder and kidnapping.
They were identified as Martin Villanueva, Bonifacio Suyon, Dindo Absalon and Rico Bodina.
Villanueva and Suyon were convicted for kidnapping while Absalon and Bodino served time for murder,. The NDFP said they have already served at least 18 years.
“These rebels have long been recommended for pardon but the previous government did not sign the draft order to release them,” Bello said.
The third round of formal peace negotiations will resume on the third week of January 2017 in a neutral venue.
Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Jesus Dureza said he has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to “walk the extra mile for peace” and assured that efforts have been undertaken for the release of the political prisoners.
But Dureza, in a statement, explained that necessary legal processes take time as the cases are within the jurisdiction of the judiciary which, he noted, is “an independent and co-equal branch.”
“Earnest efforts have been ongoing on the releases of prisoners…. We understand their angst and impatience but we are all forgetting that these efforts were never possible nor even imaginable in the previous times,” he said.
He said the Duterte administration has made the releases of political prisoners possible.
He added he is appalled by some sectors who criticized the GRP panel for “not delivering enough and for the perceived delay,” although he said they serve as good reminders that they need to do more.
“But putting undue public pressure on the government which has already taken unprecedented steps may not yield their intended results. President Duterte has exercised bold political will to quickly resuscitate the peace process from where it was. And he does so also mindful that there is a need to balance things taking into account the processes that must be observed and the whole citizenry that he must also engage and serve,” he said.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/12/no-bilateral-ceasefire-no-release-of-political-prisoners-duterte/
US Embassy in Manila advises citizens to be cautious due to threat of terrorism
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): US Embassy in Manila advises citizens to be cautious due to threat of terrorism
The United States Embassy in Manila on Monday reiterated to its citizens to be more cautious citing an ongoing threat of terrorism in the country.
US State Department security message posted on their website December 5 claimed indication of an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against US citizens and interest abroad, which include the Philippines.
It also mentioned that the recent discovery of an improvised explosive device near the vicinity of Manila’s US Embassy only serves as reminders to its citizens of the “recurring threat that terrorism and political violence pose in the Philippines.”
While the incident has not caused any casualties, the embassy cautioned that it “certainly underscores the importance of maintaining a strong sense of personal security.”
“The US citizen community should remember that terrorists have proven time and again their preference for soft targets, or places that access, and the potential ability of large number of unprotected people,” the advisory said.
Giving emphasis on the mentioned warning, the embassy reminded that places like worships, schools, public areas and shopping malls have all been targeted by terrorist organizations worldwide.
The embassy further said that all US citizens should elevate level of security awareness.
“It is imperative that you enhance your personal sense of vigilance and remain alert and cognizant of your surroundings and of those around you,” it said.
“If you see something suspicious, you should report it immediately to the nearest law enforcement or security official,” it added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945867
The United States Embassy in Manila on Monday reiterated to its citizens to be more cautious citing an ongoing threat of terrorism in the country.
US State Department security message posted on their website December 5 claimed indication of an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against US citizens and interest abroad, which include the Philippines.
It also mentioned that the recent discovery of an improvised explosive device near the vicinity of Manila’s US Embassy only serves as reminders to its citizens of the “recurring threat that terrorism and political violence pose in the Philippines.”
While the incident has not caused any casualties, the embassy cautioned that it “certainly underscores the importance of maintaining a strong sense of personal security.”
“The US citizen community should remember that terrorists have proven time and again their preference for soft targets, or places that access, and the potential ability of large number of unprotected people,” the advisory said.
Giving emphasis on the mentioned warning, the embassy reminded that places like worships, schools, public areas and shopping malls have all been targeted by terrorist organizations worldwide.
The embassy further said that all US citizens should elevate level of security awareness.
“It is imperative that you enhance your personal sense of vigilance and remain alert and cognizant of your surroundings and of those around you,” it said.
“If you see something suspicious, you should report it immediately to the nearest law enforcement or security official,” it added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945867
Yasay in talks with Russian counterpart for PRRD Moscow visit next year
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): Yasay in talks with Russian counterpart for PRRD Moscow visit next year
Secretary of Foreign Affairs Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr. is in Moscow to talk to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on how both ministries would undertake the preparations for the proposed visit to Russia of President Duterte next year.
The bilateral meeting came at the heels of the meeting between President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima, Peru.
In a statement Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday, the two foreign ministers also discussed the current state of bilateral relations and the prospects to enhance cooperation on a broad ranges of areas, spanning the political, security, economic, cultural and people-to-people spheres.
They both agreed to redouble efforts to conclude a number of agreements that would form part of the legal framework on which to build relations.
They also discussed regional and global issues including the priorities of the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN in 2017, regional security architecture and UN issues.
This is the first visit to Russia of Secretary Yasay.
In the joint press conference held after the bilateral meeting, Secretary Yasay emphasized that this engagement is part of the continuing effort which build on the previous visits to Russia of Philippine foreign secretaries to strengthen Philippine-Russia bilateral partnership.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945975
Secretary of Foreign Affairs Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr. is in Moscow to talk to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on how both ministries would undertake the preparations for the proposed visit to Russia of President Duterte next year.
The bilateral meeting came at the heels of the meeting between President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima, Peru.
In a statement Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday, the two foreign ministers also discussed the current state of bilateral relations and the prospects to enhance cooperation on a broad ranges of areas, spanning the political, security, economic, cultural and people-to-people spheres.
They both agreed to redouble efforts to conclude a number of agreements that would form part of the legal framework on which to build relations.
They also discussed regional and global issues including the priorities of the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN in 2017, regional security architecture and UN issues.
This is the first visit to Russia of Secretary Yasay.
In the joint press conference held after the bilateral meeting, Secretary Yasay emphasized that this engagement is part of the continuing effort which build on the previous visits to Russia of Philippine foreign secretaries to strengthen Philippine-Russia bilateral partnership.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945975
Military integration with local disaster units in Samar, Leyte ongoing for quick aid during calamities
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): Military integration with local disaster units in Samar, Leyte ongoing for quick aid during calamities
Efforts are now ongoing to integrate the Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army with local disaster risk response units to ensure quick aid should calamities strike its areas of operation.
8th Infantry Division assistant commander Brig. Gen. Cesar Idio in a statement Tuesday said this can be done through more inter-operability exercises with the local and regional disaster risk reduction councils.
“For our part, we are looking forward for more capacity-building programs that we can work together as we prepare for the unknowns of tomorrow,” Idio said.
He said such cooperation is needed considering that Samar and Leyte, the 8th Infantry Division's operational areas, are located in the Philippine "typhoon highway".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945986
Efforts are now ongoing to integrate the Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army with local disaster risk response units to ensure quick aid should calamities strike its areas of operation.
8th Infantry Division assistant commander Brig. Gen. Cesar Idio in a statement Tuesday said this can be done through more inter-operability exercises with the local and regional disaster risk reduction councils.
“For our part, we are looking forward for more capacity-building programs that we can work together as we prepare for the unknowns of tomorrow,” Idio said.
He said such cooperation is needed considering that Samar and Leyte, the 8th Infantry Division's operational areas, are located in the Philippine "typhoon highway".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=945986
Another suspect in foiled US embassy bombing nabbed
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6): Another suspect in foiled US embassy bombing nabbed
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde on Tuesday confirmed that operatives of the NCRPO have arrested another suspect in the attempted bombing along Roxas Boulevard near the United States Embassy last November 28.
Albayalde said that one of the five suspects was arrested outside of Metro Manila.
He added that the said suspects have not yet returned home in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, who brought the improvised explosive device (IED) in Metro Manila.
The PNP have arrested the two suspects identified as Ryson Kilala and Jiaher Guinar Wednesday last week.
However, Albayalde refused to identify the newly-arrested suspect because it will be presented by PNP chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City set on Wednesday.
As of Tuesday, two other suspects are still at-large and authorities are continuously hunting them down.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946110
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde on Tuesday confirmed that operatives of the NCRPO have arrested another suspect in the attempted bombing along Roxas Boulevard near the United States Embassy last November 28.
Albayalde said that one of the five suspects was arrested outside of Metro Manila.
He added that the said suspects have not yet returned home in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, who brought the improvised explosive device (IED) in Metro Manila.
The PNP have arrested the two suspects identified as Ryson Kilala and Jiaher Guinar Wednesday last week.
However, Albayalde refused to identify the newly-arrested suspect because it will be presented by PNP chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City set on Wednesday.
As of Tuesday, two other suspects are still at-large and authorities are continuously hunting them down.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=946110
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