From Malaya Business Insight (Apr 25): US Embassy still tries own spin on Balikatan
THE United States Embassy in Manila yesterday said this year’s Balikatan exercise between American and Filipino forces, which will run from May 8 to 19, is focused on meeting “current challenges facing the Philippines.”
“Along with preparing the US forces’ and AFP’s ability to respond to natural disasters and deliver humanitarian aid, Balikatan will also increase our militaries’ terrorism capabilities,” press attaché Molly Koscina said in a statement.
Previous Balikatan exercises were focused on territorial defense. President Duterte has said he wants military exercises with the Americans to focus on humanitarian assistance and counter-terrorism.
The exercise will be conducted in various venues in Luzon, the Visayas, and the National Capital Region.
Maj. Celeste Frank Sayson, Balikatan public affairs officer, said the PH-US Mutual Defense Board and the Security Engagement Board have “carefully included President Duterte’s guidance for this year’s exercise.”
Sayson also said this year’s Balikatan will follow a single-scenario concept wherein a super typhoon “devastates” areas under Central and Northern Luzon commands, and Joint Task Force National Capital Region.
Sayson said the operational and counter-terrorism training that will be conducted under Balikatan includes advanced marksmanship, counter-improvised explosive devices, and maritime interdiction against piracy.
Sayson said details like the number of US and Filipino troops that will be participating in the exercise and the assets that will be involved are still being finalized.
At least 7,000 American and Filipino troopers took part in last year’s Balikatan exercise.
“As to the equipment, we will be utilizing the usual equipment, except the HIMARS (high mobility artillery rocket system). There will no HIMARS arriving for this year’s Balikatan,” said Sayson.
The HIMARS was used in the live fire exercises in Crow Valley in Tarlac. Sayson noted there will be no live fire training in this year’s Balikatan, though there will be sniper rifle and close-quarter battle events.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/us-embassy-still-tries-own-spin-balikatan
Monday, April 24, 2017
Bomb-making notes found at Camp Bagong Diwa
From the Philippine Star (Apr 24): Bomb-making notes found at Camp Bagong Diwa
Photo shows a policeman inspecting the gadgets and other contraband seized during the raid. STAR/Edd Gumban, file
Various contraband were seized Monday morning after authorities launched an “Oplan Galugad” or search operation at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.
Around 300 cops of National Capital Region Police Office confiscated cellular phones, drug paraphernalia, assorted bladed weapons, gadgets inside the cell of “high-profile inmates” at Special Intensive Care Area 2.
Among the inmates in SICA 2 are members of Abu Sayyaf and Moro Islamic Liberation Front and members of different criminal groups.
A notebook was also confiscated which includes instructions on how to make bombs.
“Itinaon talaga natin to as part of our target hardening measures. Ginawa na rin natin ito during the conduct of miss universe and translancion kahit wala tayong nakukuhang threat,” NCRPO chief Director Oscar Albayalde said in a report by dzMM.
Last week, 19 cellular phones were confiscated from high-profile inmates at SICA 1, Albayalde said.
[Video report]
The operation was conducted ahead of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations this week.
The international event gathering world leaders to be staged in Manila requires thousands of security personnel.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/04/24/1693461/bomb-making-notes-found-camp-bagong-diwa
Photo shows a policeman inspecting the gadgets and other contraband seized during the raid. STAR/Edd Gumban, file
Various contraband were seized Monday morning after authorities launched an “Oplan Galugad” or search operation at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.
Around 300 cops of National Capital Region Police Office confiscated cellular phones, drug paraphernalia, assorted bladed weapons, gadgets inside the cell of “high-profile inmates” at Special Intensive Care Area 2.
Among the inmates in SICA 2 are members of Abu Sayyaf and Moro Islamic Liberation Front and members of different criminal groups.
A notebook was also confiscated which includes instructions on how to make bombs.
“Itinaon talaga natin to as part of our target hardening measures. Ginawa na rin natin ito during the conduct of miss universe and translancion kahit wala tayong nakukuhang threat,” NCRPO chief Director Oscar Albayalde said in a report by dzMM.
Last week, 19 cellular phones were confiscated from high-profile inmates at SICA 1, Albayalde said.
[Video report]
The operation was conducted ahead of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations this week.
The international event gathering world leaders to be staged in Manila requires thousands of security personnel.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/04/24/1693461/bomb-making-notes-found-camp-bagong-diwa
MILF fire into the air in Maguindanao town after comrade's arrest
From the Philippine Star (Apr 24): MILF fire into the air in Maguindanao town after comrade's arrest
The show of force was apparently in response to the arrest of an MILF commander over the weekend. Google Earth
Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front fired rifles into the air near the police precinct in Parang town on Monday as a show of force and in protest of the arrest of one of their commanders.
Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao provincial police, said the incident sent hundreds of villagers running for cover.
Tello said the group of Solaiman Dimatunday, a senior MILF commander in nearby Barira town in Maguindanao, arrived in the town proper of Parang, approached the municipal police station and fired guns overhead.
Local officials said the provocation was a serious violation of the government’s 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities with the MILF.
The provocation was the group’s apparent response to the arrest on Saturday of another MILF commander for illegal possession of firearms.
The suspect, who is related to Dimatunday, was intercepted by personnel of the Regional Public Safety Battalion of the Police Regional Office-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in Barangay Kalawag in Parang town on Saturday.
The MILF rebels who stormed the town center of Parang retreated to another barangay in the municipality through the intercession of local officials.
Tello said they are now preparing a formal complaint to the government-MILF ceasefire committee for the misbehavior of Dimatunday and his followers.
The government and the MILF signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2014, which was meant as a final peace agreement. The Bangsamoro Basic Law, which the 16th Congress failed to pass, was supposed to implement the agreement.
A Bangsamoro Transition Commission, which includes members of the MILF, the Moro National Liberation Front and representatives of the government, is working on a new draft of the BBL.
Mayapay tribe welcomes Masigasig troopers
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 25): Mayapay tribe welcomes Masigasig troopers
The Mayapay Tribal Council (MATRICO) on Friday has welcomed the presence of the 23rd Infantry (MASIGASIG) Battalion, 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division, Philippine Army, based in Purok-6, Brgy Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte thru an "inpandawatan" ritual or “acceptance of the tribe” rites.
The ritual seeks to strengthen the army's relationship with the IP stakeholders towards achieving peace and development in the area.
The ritual is usually conducted amongst different tribes in the area to settle misunderstandings and/or acceptance of certain customs and traditions of a particular tribe, it was learned. Living or settling of a community within the tribal domain of a particular tribe needs the acceptance and blessing of that particular tribe.
The ritual, which started at 9:00 a.m., was facilitated by the Masigasig troopers and participated by the different tribal leaders from Mayapay Tribal Council. It was officiated by Richard “Datu Malakas” L. Gubaton, the baylan (shaman) of the tribe. The ritual continued with the calling for the “supernaturals” in the area for the soldier’s safe and peaceful stay in their highland ancestral domain areas.
"The importance of inpandawatan ritual is to determine and resolve any misunderstandings between the tribe and the 23rd IB,” Datu Malakas stated.
A certificate of Free Prior Informal Consent (FPIC) was then handed to LTC Emil Cruz, the commanding officer of the unit, at the end of the program to certify that the Mayapay tribe was allowing the presence of the 23rd IB in its tribal domain.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701492997077/mayapay-tribe-welcomes-masigasig-troopers
The Mayapay Tribal Council (MATRICO) on Friday has welcomed the presence of the 23rd Infantry (MASIGASIG) Battalion, 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division, Philippine Army, based in Purok-6, Brgy Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte thru an "inpandawatan" ritual or “acceptance of the tribe” rites.
The ritual seeks to strengthen the army's relationship with the IP stakeholders towards achieving peace and development in the area.
The ritual is usually conducted amongst different tribes in the area to settle misunderstandings and/or acceptance of certain customs and traditions of a particular tribe, it was learned. Living or settling of a community within the tribal domain of a particular tribe needs the acceptance and blessing of that particular tribe.
The ritual, which started at 9:00 a.m., was facilitated by the Masigasig troopers and participated by the different tribal leaders from Mayapay Tribal Council. It was officiated by Richard “Datu Malakas” L. Gubaton, the baylan (shaman) of the tribe. The ritual continued with the calling for the “supernaturals” in the area for the soldier’s safe and peaceful stay in their highland ancestral domain areas.
"The importance of inpandawatan ritual is to determine and resolve any misunderstandings between the tribe and the 23rd IB,” Datu Malakas stated.
A certificate of Free Prior Informal Consent (FPIC) was then handed to LTC Emil Cruz, the commanding officer of the unit, at the end of the program to certify that the Mayapay tribe was allowing the presence of the 23rd IB in its tribal domain.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701492997077/mayapay-tribe-welcomes-masigasig-troopers
Army scores, recovers high powered ammos
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 25): Army scores, recovers high powered ammos
As the government troops continue to secure Samar, members of the 87th Infantry (Hinirang) Battalion encountered an armed group at Sitio Ogbok, Barangay Villa Aurora, Basey, Samar on April 18, 2017.
An exchange of fire ensued, after some time, as the suspected NPAs escaped, the government troops recovered two (2) 5.56mm M16A1 Rifles with SN 033681 and 9021623; one (1) magazine assembly (30 rounds) steel; one (1) magazine assembly (30 rounds) plastic; one (1) magazine assembly (20 rounds) steel and 48 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
A day after, on April 19, 2017, troops from the same battalion, the 87th IB while conducting a reconnaissance patrol within their area of operation encountered another batch of armed men, believed to be NPAS in Barangay Borong, Calbiga, Samar. This resulted also to the recovery of one (1) M16A1 Rifle.
To achieve lasting peace and development, the army in Eastern Visayas is calling all stakeholders and the general public to support the government forces in fighting the insurgents.
Everyone is encouraged to report to any military unit NPA sightings.
The 8th Infantry Division will conduct massive combat operation to deter lawless elements against our peace-loving people in Eastern Visayas, 8th Infantry Division, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) declared.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1221493059715/army-scores-recovers-high-powered-ammos
As the government troops continue to secure Samar, members of the 87th Infantry (Hinirang) Battalion encountered an armed group at Sitio Ogbok, Barangay Villa Aurora, Basey, Samar on April 18, 2017.
An exchange of fire ensued, after some time, as the suspected NPAs escaped, the government troops recovered two (2) 5.56mm M16A1 Rifles with SN 033681 and 9021623; one (1) magazine assembly (30 rounds) steel; one (1) magazine assembly (30 rounds) plastic; one (1) magazine assembly (20 rounds) steel and 48 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
A day after, on April 19, 2017, troops from the same battalion, the 87th IB while conducting a reconnaissance patrol within their area of operation encountered another batch of armed men, believed to be NPAS in Barangay Borong, Calbiga, Samar. This resulted also to the recovery of one (1) M16A1 Rifle.
To achieve lasting peace and development, the army in Eastern Visayas is calling all stakeholders and the general public to support the government forces in fighting the insurgents.
Everyone is encouraged to report to any military unit NPA sightings.
The 8th Infantry Division will conduct massive combat operation to deter lawless elements against our peace-loving people in Eastern Visayas, 8th Infantry Division, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) declared.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1221493059715/army-scores-recovers-high-powered-ammos
Complaint lodged vs. MILF for 'show of force' at Maguindanao police station
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): Complaint lodged vs. MILF for 'show of force' at Maguindanao police station
PARANG, Maguindanao -- Police have filed a complaint before the joint ceasefire panel of the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) against members of the latter for alleged show of force and indiscriminate firing in front of the municipal police station here on Monday, an official said. Nobody was hurt in the incident.
Police said the incident was a provocation and a serious violation of the government’s 1997 Agreement on the General Cessation of Hostilities with the MILF.
Investigation showed the group of Dimatunday was irked by the arrest of another MILF official on Saturday for illegal possession of firearms.
The suspect, related by blood to Dimatunday, was arrested by members of the Regional Public Safety Battalion at a checkpoint in Barangay Kalawag here with an unlicensed gun.
After firing their guns, the MILF fighters, numbering about 100, retreated to another village.
According to Tello, his office will also meet with leaders of the government ceasefire panel to consult them on what to do with the incident.
He said that if this incident goes unpunished, similar incidents will happen in the future.
Von Al Haq, speaking for the MILF’s military arm, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), admitted the armed men were MILF members.
”The MILF is probing the incident. Commander Dimatuntay is restricted from leaving the camp,” he said.
Earlier, the MILF said it will file protest against the police for the death of a younger brother of MILF political affairs chief Ghadzali Jaafar.
Boy Jaafar, also known as Boy Bangsamoro, was a legitimate MILF member, according to Jaafar.
The police served warrants of arrest for the younger Jaafar for charges of murder and frustrated murder.
But the suspect instead shoot it out with lawmen, which led to his death.
Jaafar said the police did not coordinate with the MILF as contained in the ceasefire agreement.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982334
PARANG, Maguindanao -- Police have filed a complaint before the joint ceasefire panel of the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) against members of the latter for alleged show of force and indiscriminate firing in front of the municipal police station here on Monday, an official said. Nobody was hurt in the incident.
Police said the incident was a provocation and a serious violation of the government’s 1997 Agreement on the General Cessation of Hostilities with the MILF.
Investigation showed the group of Dimatunday was irked by the arrest of another MILF official on Saturday for illegal possession of firearms.
The suspect, related by blood to Dimatunday, was arrested by members of the Regional Public Safety Battalion at a checkpoint in Barangay Kalawag here with an unlicensed gun.
After firing their guns, the MILF fighters, numbering about 100, retreated to another village.
According to Tello, his office will also meet with leaders of the government ceasefire panel to consult them on what to do with the incident.
He said that if this incident goes unpunished, similar incidents will happen in the future.
Von Al Haq, speaking for the MILF’s military arm, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), admitted the armed men were MILF members.
”The MILF is probing the incident. Commander Dimatuntay is restricted from leaving the camp,” he said.
Earlier, the MILF said it will file protest against the police for the death of a younger brother of MILF political affairs chief Ghadzali Jaafar.
Boy Jaafar, also known as Boy Bangsamoro, was a legitimate MILF member, according to Jaafar.
The police served warrants of arrest for the younger Jaafar for charges of murder and frustrated murder.
But the suspect instead shoot it out with lawmen, which led to his death.
Jaafar said the police did not coordinate with the MILF as contained in the ceasefire agreement.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982334
PAF looking for rocket motors for S-211 jet trainers
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): PAF looking for rocket motors for S-211 jet trainers
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is looking for suppliers capable of delivering PHP8 million worth of rocket motors needed for the use of its SIAI-Marchetti S-211 trainer jets.
Bid opening is on May 5, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, Air Force bids and awards committee chair Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla said in a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website.
The S-211 is the PAF's sole jet-powered aircraft following the retirement of the Northrop F-5 "Tiger" jet fighter fleet in 2005 and arrival of the Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet fighter in 2015.
Three S-211s remain in the PAF inventory and are used closely for training, recon, and sometimes ground-attack missions.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982231
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is looking for suppliers capable of delivering PHP8 million worth of rocket motors needed for the use of its SIAI-Marchetti S-211 trainer jets.
Bid opening is on May 5, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, Air Force bids and awards committee chair Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla said in a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website.
The S-211 is the PAF's sole jet-powered aircraft following the retirement of the Northrop F-5 "Tiger" jet fighter fleet in 2005 and arrival of the Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet fighter in 2015.
Three S-211s remain in the PAF inventory and are used closely for training, recon, and sometimes ground-attack missions.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982231
20 PN ships, other assets deployed for 30th ASEAN Summit
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): 20 PN ships, other assets deployed for 30th ASEAN Summit
Twenty Philippine Navy (PN) ships, of various changes and sizes, will be deployed to secure delegates of the ASEAN Summit and Related meetings from April 26 to 29 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna, in a message to the PNA Tuesday, however, declined to give the names and locations of these ships, many of which are now patrolling Manila Bay for security and operational reasons.
Lincuna said these vessels are supported by elite troops from Naval Special Operations and Marine units along with assorted PN planes and helicopters.
Joint Task Force deputy commander Col. Victor Tomas earlier said they are yet to detect any security threats for the coming ASEAN event.
"We are very fortunate to say that there are no threats detected for the coming ASEAN meetings (at the PICC in Pasay City)," he added.
The above-mentioned military unit will serve as the Philippine National Police (PNP) back-up in securing the said event along with other government security agencies.
Despite this, Tomas said security for the meetings will still be tight so they will not be caught flat-footed in case of any untoward incident.
"We don't want to be overconfident so what we are doing is we are (still conducting) intelligence build-up and (target) hardening," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982307
Twenty Philippine Navy (PN) ships, of various changes and sizes, will be deployed to secure delegates of the ASEAN Summit and Related meetings from April 26 to 29 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna, in a message to the PNA Tuesday, however, declined to give the names and locations of these ships, many of which are now patrolling Manila Bay for security and operational reasons.
Lincuna said these vessels are supported by elite troops from Naval Special Operations and Marine units along with assorted PN planes and helicopters.
Joint Task Force deputy commander Col. Victor Tomas earlier said they are yet to detect any security threats for the coming ASEAN event.
"We are very fortunate to say that there are no threats detected for the coming ASEAN meetings (at the PICC in Pasay City)," he added.
The above-mentioned military unit will serve as the Philippine National Police (PNP) back-up in securing the said event along with other government security agencies.
Despite this, Tomas said security for the meetings will still be tight so they will not be caught flat-footed in case of any untoward incident.
"We don't want to be overconfident so what we are doing is we are (still conducting) intelligence build-up and (target) hardening," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982307
Arrest warrant out vs Leyte ‘bomber’
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 24): Arrest warrant out vs Leyte ‘bomber’
Police have distributed flyers to inform the public the arrest warrant for Jake Anthony Perez Macuto, who has been tagged in the twin bombings of the plaza in Hilongos town, Leyte on Dec. 28, 2016. (PHOTO BY ROBERT DEJON / INQUIRER VISAYAS)
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte — An arrest warrant was issued against the suspected bomber in the twin explosions that rocked the park during a fiesta in Hilongos town, Leyte on Dec. 28, 2016, that wounded 32 people.
The Regional Trial Court in Hilongos issued the warrant against Jake Anthony Perez Macuto also known as Yusuf Perez Macuto, last April 11.
Macuto, along with two unidentified companions were charged with multiple frustrated murder at the sala of Judge Suarez Abando of Regional Trial Court Branch 18.
At least 32 persons – 10 of them children – were hurt when two improvised explosive devices went off in a span of a minute while more than 1,000 people were watching an amateur boxing match at the Rizal Plaza, across the Hilongos municipal building, which was part of the fiesta festivities.
The court has set bail at P200,000 for each accused.
Macuto was said to have resided in Barangay Concepcion, Hilongos, Leyte before staging the bombing.
The Muslims in Hilongos mostly are residing in Concepcion village and some of the Muslims have pointed at Macuto as the perpetrator of the bombings. He was said to be a recruit of the Maute group, allegedly the local arm of the ISIS in the Philippines.
Macuto resided before in Lanao del Norte and was believed to be roaming freely in the Maguindanao area, said Senior Insp. Ma. Bella Duque Rentuaya, information officer of Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas.
The picture of Macuto has been posted in different places in the region and across the country as he has also been tagged in the attempted attack on the United States Embassy in Manila and the Black Nazarene procession in Quiapo.
Mayor Albert Villahermosa of Hilongos said in an earlier interview that all evidence of the bombing pointed to Macuto and his unidentified cohorts as the perpetrators.
Villahermos said he knew the parents of Macuto and his father belonged to a prominent family in Hilongos.
But he said he didn’t personally know the 25-year-old Macuto because the suspect had been living in Cavite with his mother.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/891635/arrest-warrant-out-vs-leyte-bomber
Police have distributed flyers to inform the public the arrest warrant for Jake Anthony Perez Macuto, who has been tagged in the twin bombings of the plaza in Hilongos town, Leyte on Dec. 28, 2016. (PHOTO BY ROBERT DEJON / INQUIRER VISAYAS)
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte — An arrest warrant was issued against the suspected bomber in the twin explosions that rocked the park during a fiesta in Hilongos town, Leyte on Dec. 28, 2016, that wounded 32 people.
The Regional Trial Court in Hilongos issued the warrant against Jake Anthony Perez Macuto also known as Yusuf Perez Macuto, last April 11.
Macuto, along with two unidentified companions were charged with multiple frustrated murder at the sala of Judge Suarez Abando of Regional Trial Court Branch 18.
At least 32 persons – 10 of them children – were hurt when two improvised explosive devices went off in a span of a minute while more than 1,000 people were watching an amateur boxing match at the Rizal Plaza, across the Hilongos municipal building, which was part of the fiesta festivities.
The court has set bail at P200,000 for each accused.
Macuto was said to have resided in Barangay Concepcion, Hilongos, Leyte before staging the bombing.
The Muslims in Hilongos mostly are residing in Concepcion village and some of the Muslims have pointed at Macuto as the perpetrator of the bombings. He was said to be a recruit of the Maute group, allegedly the local arm of the ISIS in the Philippines.
Macuto resided before in Lanao del Norte and was believed to be roaming freely in the Maguindanao area, said Senior Insp. Ma. Bella Duque Rentuaya, information officer of Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas.
The picture of Macuto has been posted in different places in the region and across the country as he has also been tagged in the attempted attack on the United States Embassy in Manila and the Black Nazarene procession in Quiapo.
Mayor Albert Villahermosa of Hilongos said in an earlier interview that all evidence of the bombing pointed to Macuto and his unidentified cohorts as the perpetrators.
Villahermos said he knew the parents of Macuto and his father belonged to a prominent family in Hilongos.
But he said he didn’t personally know the 25-year-old Macuto because the suspect had been living in Cavite with his mother.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/891635/arrest-warrant-out-vs-leyte-bomber
PSG chief 'ready' to protect 10 ASEAN leaders
From Rappler (Apr 24): PSG chief 'ready' to protect 10 ASEAN leaders
Introducing 'Task Force Chieftain,' the special team in charge of protecting the 10 Southeast Asian leaders attending the 30th ASEAN Summit from April 28 to 29
After only a month as President Rodrigo Duterte's chief of security, Presidential Security Group commander General Lope Dagoy now faces the challenge of ensuring the safety of 10 Southeast Asian leaders during a major summit in Manila this week.
He's ready for the challenge.
"I have to be equal to the task given to me or more than equal to the task given to me.... I have to prepare myself and that is exactly what I am doing now," Dagoy told Rappler on Monday, April 24, in Malacañang.
Dagoy heads "Task Force Chieftain," the 2,000-strong group in charge of securing the 9 leaders, aside from President Duterte, who are attending the 30th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings on Saturday, April 29.
This is his first time to take on such a mission. It comes only a month after he was appointed PSG chief last March 23.
Dagoy is in charge of protecting the leaders, including Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who was recently threatened with an assassination plot. See the full list of leaders attending the summit here.
The PSG must also ensure the security of the spouses of these leaders and their children. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, for instance, may be bringing some of his children.
For weeks, Dagoy's team has been identifying possible threats to these VIPs and coordinating with the officials' own personal security teams.
"Every now and then, we rehearse, we walk through the events, just to see to it that these potential threats will be addressed effectively and efficiently," he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Though he sees no specific threat, Dagoy said the kind of technology now being used by terrorists poses a challenge to security.
"The threat is evolving, they are also becoming high-tech, so we need to be quick in thinking. We have to think as if we were terrorists," he said.
Task Force Chieftain will involve the participation of other units, aside from the PSG. These include the military's army, navy, and airforce, as well as civilian agencies like the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in charge mainly of traffic and rerouting schemes, and even the Bureau of Fire Protection.
With the heavy responsibility on his shoulders, Dagoy is taking no chances.
"Of course, as the one in charge of securing 9 heads of state, you cannot take chances also," he said.
"As security officers, we are paranoid even if we haven't identified a specific threat. We will assume that there are threats. Whatever forms of threats will come our way, we will prepare for them," added the presidential security chief.
Introducing 'Task Force Chieftain,' the special team in charge of protecting the 10 Southeast Asian leaders attending the 30th ASEAN Summit from April 28 to 29
After only a month as President Rodrigo Duterte's chief of security, Presidential Security Group commander General Lope Dagoy now faces the challenge of ensuring the safety of 10 Southeast Asian leaders during a major summit in Manila this week.
He's ready for the challenge.
"I have to be equal to the task given to me or more than equal to the task given to me.... I have to prepare myself and that is exactly what I am doing now," Dagoy told Rappler on Monday, April 24, in Malacañang.
Dagoy heads "Task Force Chieftain," the 2,000-strong group in charge of securing the 9 leaders, aside from President Duterte, who are attending the 30th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings on Saturday, April 29.
This is his first time to take on such a mission. It comes only a month after he was appointed PSG chief last March 23.
Dagoy is in charge of protecting the leaders, including Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who was recently threatened with an assassination plot. See the full list of leaders attending the summit here.
The PSG must also ensure the security of the spouses of these leaders and their children. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, for instance, may be bringing some of his children.
For weeks, Dagoy's team has been identifying possible threats to these VIPs and coordinating with the officials' own personal security teams.
"Every now and then, we rehearse, we walk through the events, just to see to it that these potential threats will be addressed effectively and efficiently," he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Though he sees no specific threat, Dagoy said the kind of technology now being used by terrorists poses a challenge to security.
"The threat is evolving, they are also becoming high-tech, so we need to be quick in thinking. We have to think as if we were terrorists," he said.
Task Force Chieftain will involve the participation of other units, aside from the PSG. These include the military's army, navy, and airforce, as well as civilian agencies like the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in charge mainly of traffic and rerouting schemes, and even the Bureau of Fire Protection.
With the heavy responsibility on his shoulders, Dagoy is taking no chances.
"Of course, as the one in charge of securing 9 heads of state, you cannot take chances also," he said.
"As security officers, we are paranoid even if we haven't identified a specific threat. We will assume that there are threats. Whatever forms of threats will come our way, we will prepare for them," added the presidential security chief.
30 Maute members killed in clashes with army
From Rappler (Apr 24): 30 Maute members killed in clashes with army
After the 3-day clashes with the ISIS-inspired group, the Philippine Army has recovered from the encampment ISIS flag, weapons, and 'documents of subversive value'
After the 3-day clashes with the ISIS-inspired group, the Philippine Army has recovered from the encampment ISIS flag, weapons, and 'documents of subversive value'
RECOVERED. Government forces seize items from a Maute encampment. Photo by Richard Falcatan/Rappler
At least 30 members of local terrorist group Maute were killed following a series of clashes with government forces in Lanao del Sur.
The 3-day clashes began early dawn of April 21, when troops of the Joint Task Force Zampelan under Brigadier General Rolando Joselito Bautista launched offensive operations against around 150 Maute members.
The 103rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Tabak Division, of the Philippine Army said 3 soldiers were injured in the skirmishes against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired terror group.
According to local government reports, the Maute members were regrouping to craft terror plans on still-unidentified targets, prompting the immediate launch of combat operations.
At 2 am on Monday, April 24, government troops clashed with armed Maute members for 3 hours, resulting in the seizure of an encampment.
Recovered from the encampment were an ISIS flag, rifle and fragmentation grenades, assorted items to make an improvised explosive device, a video camera, cellphones, assorted camouflage uniforms, 3 motorcycles, and two sacks of rice.
The 103rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Tabak Division, of the Philippine Army said 3 soldiers were injured in the skirmishes against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired terror group.
According to local government reports, the Maute members were regrouping to craft terror plans on still-unidentified targets, prompting the immediate launch of combat operations.
At 2 am on Monday, April 24, government troops clashed with armed Maute members for 3 hours, resulting in the seizure of an encampment.
Recovered from the encampment were an ISIS flag, rifle and fragmentation grenades, assorted items to make an improvised explosive device, a video camera, cellphones, assorted camouflage uniforms, 3 motorcycles, and two sacks of rice.
Also found were "documents of subversive value," and an Indonesian passport owned by a certain Muhammad Ilham Syahputra.
An unidentified cadaver was also found at the encampment.
Stopping terror plots
Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said the operation was launched to contain the group and prevent them from plotting terror attacks.
Stopping terror plots
Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said the operation was launched to contain the group and prevent them from plotting terror attacks.
“We have reasons to believe that the Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi Abu Sayyaf Groups already have ties with the Maute since last year, that is why we are in close monitoring of any activities that the Maute might be brewing," he said.
“Your armed forces has the inherent duty to protect the people and the communities from any threat or terror, that is why we are aggressively launching combat operations to these targets,” he added.
Galvez said the ongoing operations are part of President Rodrigo Duterte's directive to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to crush local terror groups within 6 months.
“Your armed forces has the inherent duty to protect the people and the communities from any threat or terror, that is why we are aggressively launching combat operations to these targets,” he added.
Galvez said the ongoing operations are part of President Rodrigo Duterte's directive to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to crush local terror groups within 6 months.
How a cop and an alleged terrorist 'let the love begin'
From Rappler (Apr 24): How a cop and an alleged terrorist 'let the love begin'
It's also a 'love story' that reveals apparent gaps between the PNP and an anti-crime commission under the Office of the President
She was a police superintendent assigned to the presidential anti-crime commission. He was an alleged member of a terror group, detained for supposedly making bombs, explosives, and guns.
But somehow, in 2013, Superintendent Maria Christina Nobleza and Renierlo Dongon met and fell in love. (READ: Marwan’s ties that bind: Ren-Ren Dongon)
“Yung nakakulong si Dongon noon, [si Nobleza] 'yung taga-interview kasi miyembro siya ng PAOCC (Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission),” said PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa in an interview on Monday, April 24, nearly two days after the two were caught allegedly trying to rescue trapped members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Bohol. (When Dongon was detained, Nobleza was assigned to interview him since she was a member of the PAOCC.)
“Habang nakakulong si Dongon (While Dongon was detained), they let the love begin,” quipped Dela Rosa, before singing a line from Andy William’s “Love Story.”
It’s a story that sounds almost too amazing to be true, except that it was a story being relayed by two of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s top officials, both of whom happen to be former members of the Intelligence Group.
Nobleza and Dongon’s capture, alongside an elderly woman and minor alleged to also have filial ties to terrorists based in Mindanao, is the latest – and thus far, oddest – subchapter in the ASG's foiled attempt to supposedly kidnap tourists in Bohol province.
On April 11 and April 22, government troops launched operations against members of the ASG who travelled via pump boat from Sulu in Mindanao to Bohol. At least 6 of the supposed ASG members have been killed so far.
The two were caught after they tried to evade a police checkpoint the night the military launched its second operation against the ASG in Bohol.
While Nobleza claimed she was only there for vacation, police later uncovered supposed text messages between herself and a supposed Abu Sayyaf member, asking for rescue.
Didn’t the PNP know?
Nobleza, 49, was commissioned in the PNP through lateral entry as a member of the PNP Crime Laboratory. In 2013, she was assigned to the PAOCC until the end of the Aquino administration.
Superintendent Maria Christina Nobleza in an undated PNP photo.
She then moved to the Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG), but when that was ordered dissolved by President Rodrigo Duterte late January 2017, Nobleza requested to return to her home unit, the Crime Lab. She was eventually assigned deputy chief of the Davao Region Crime Laboratory.
And while news of her being the supposed girlfriend of Dongon was a shock to many, it wasn’t news at all for Dela Rosa and Deputy Director General Fernando Mendez, the PNP’s deputy chief for operations.
Mendez was once chief of the PNP’s Intelligence Group (IG) and Dela Rosa, among his deputies. Among the many tasks of the IG is to conduct counter-intelligence on men and women in their own ranks.
And while this was a red flag, neither Dela Rosa nor Mendez then could seemingly do anything.
“You better ask the people from PAOCC, 'yung mga tao ni [former president Benigno Aquino] noon. Sa kanila yung project na 'yun eh, hindi amin. Although nasa IG ako noon, off limits kami sa projects ng PAOCC. Hindi namin alam. Lately na lang namin nalalaman,” said Dela Rosa, when asked if anybody in the PAOCC knew of Nobleza and Dongon’s relationship. (You better ask the people from PAOCC, the people during President Aquino’s time. That’s their project, not ours. Although I was in the IG then, the PAOCC was off limits to us. We did not know. We only found out recently.)
Dela Rosa added: “Merong na-monitor pero iniimbestigahan pa, kaso 'yung PAOCC is under the Office of the President. Hindi 'yan under the PNP. Let’s make that clear.” (It was being monitored and investigated but the PAOCC is under the Office of the President. It is not under the PNP.)
The PAOCC, while staffed mostly by people from the PNP, is directly under the Office of the President. During the Aquino administration, it was headed by then-executive secretary Paquito Ochoa.
Explaining the dynamics between the PAOCC and the PNP, Mendez explained that while police personnel are assigned to the commission, they report to its hierarchy and not the PNP. Dela Rosa added that while they got bits and pieces of information, the bigger picture was never quite theirs to receive.
Dongon, who is in his 20s, was released after a fiscal dismissed the case “due to a technicality,” according to Dela Rosa.
Their relationship apparently continued, even after Dongon was later the subject of an arrest warrant for the death of two people in a bombing incident.
A woman’s frailties
Nobleza now faces both administrative and criminal complaints – for allegedly aiding a terrorist – as she is set to be detained in Camp Crame pending a judge’s orders. Dongon will also be likely transferred to Camp Crame, since he is also considered a high-risk personality.
The police investigation will cover Nobleza and Dongon’s relationship, their trip to Bohol, and the female cop’s interactions with fellow police.
Dongon is the brother-in-law of Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir, the target of a controversial 2013 police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. According to Rappler’s Maria Ressa, Dongon’s sister, Zainab, married Marwin after her husband, Abu Sayyaf leader Khadaffy Janjalani, was killed by government forces.
Another sister, Aminah, is married to Abu Solaiman, Janjalani's deputy. Yet another sister, Norain, is married to Ahmad Santos, the founder and leader of the Rajah Solaiman Movement (RSM) until his arrest in 2005. Another Dongon siblin, Rejivan alias Abu Tariq, is an Abu Sayyaf member and was a member of the RSM.
That’s the world Superintendent Nobleza, a police official whose previous posts include a stint in the Directorate of Intelligence, found herself in.
Dela Rosa said they are also looking into the chance that Dongon had used Nobleza to gain access to the PNP.
“Weakness ng babae 'yan. Emotionally attached ka sa isang tao kahit anong request sa ’yo, gagawin mo (That’s a woman’s weakness. When they’re emotionally attached to a person, they’ll do whatever request),” said Dela Rosa.
At the same time, Dela Rosa hinted that they weren’t discounting the possibility that the relationship was actually work for Nobleza, while emphasizing that her actions did not have the PNP’s stamp of approval.
Nobleza is married to another commissioned officer, a Senior Superintendent assigned as the police attache in Pakistan. The officer is now on his way back to the Philippines, said Dela Rosa.
Police have yet to find out when Nobleza left for Bohol.
Although she was assigned to the Crime Laboratory in Davao, she had apparently been Crame-based for Human Resource Management training. She travelled via land and sea on her Nissan Navara.
They still don’t know when or where she met up with Dongon or his relatives.
But what they will need to know soon is just how one of their own women wound up tangled in the Philippines’ complicated web of terror.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/167851-how-a-cop-and-alleged-terrorist-let-the-love-begin
It's also a 'love story' that reveals apparent gaps between the PNP and an anti-crime commission under the Office of the President
AGAINST THE ASG. Government troops at Inabanga, Bohol, where the first clash against alleged ASG members happened. File photo sourced by Rappler
She was a police superintendent assigned to the presidential anti-crime commission. He was an alleged member of a terror group, detained for supposedly making bombs, explosives, and guns.
But somehow, in 2013, Superintendent Maria Christina Nobleza and Renierlo Dongon met and fell in love. (READ: Marwan’s ties that bind: Ren-Ren Dongon)
“Yung nakakulong si Dongon noon, [si Nobleza] 'yung taga-interview kasi miyembro siya ng PAOCC (Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission),” said PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa in an interview on Monday, April 24, nearly two days after the two were caught allegedly trying to rescue trapped members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Bohol. (When Dongon was detained, Nobleza was assigned to interview him since she was a member of the PAOCC.)
“Habang nakakulong si Dongon (While Dongon was detained), they let the love begin,” quipped Dela Rosa, before singing a line from Andy William’s “Love Story.”
It’s a story that sounds almost too amazing to be true, except that it was a story being relayed by two of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s top officials, both of whom happen to be former members of the Intelligence Group.
Nobleza and Dongon’s capture, alongside an elderly woman and minor alleged to also have filial ties to terrorists based in Mindanao, is the latest – and thus far, oddest – subchapter in the ASG's foiled attempt to supposedly kidnap tourists in Bohol province.
On April 11 and April 22, government troops launched operations against members of the ASG who travelled via pump boat from Sulu in Mindanao to Bohol. At least 6 of the supposed ASG members have been killed so far.
The two were caught after they tried to evade a police checkpoint the night the military launched its second operation against the ASG in Bohol.
While Nobleza claimed she was only there for vacation, police later uncovered supposed text messages between herself and a supposed Abu Sayyaf member, asking for rescue.
Didn’t the PNP know?
Nobleza, 49, was commissioned in the PNP through lateral entry as a member of the PNP Crime Laboratory. In 2013, she was assigned to the PAOCC until the end of the Aquino administration.
Superintendent Maria Christina Nobleza in an undated PNP photo.
She then moved to the Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG), but when that was ordered dissolved by President Rodrigo Duterte late January 2017, Nobleza requested to return to her home unit, the Crime Lab. She was eventually assigned deputy chief of the Davao Region Crime Laboratory.
And while news of her being the supposed girlfriend of Dongon was a shock to many, it wasn’t news at all for Dela Rosa and Deputy Director General Fernando Mendez, the PNP’s deputy chief for operations.
Mendez was once chief of the PNP’s Intelligence Group (IG) and Dela Rosa, among his deputies. Among the many tasks of the IG is to conduct counter-intelligence on men and women in their own ranks.
And while this was a red flag, neither Dela Rosa nor Mendez then could seemingly do anything.
“You better ask the people from PAOCC, 'yung mga tao ni [former president Benigno Aquino] noon. Sa kanila yung project na 'yun eh, hindi amin. Although nasa IG ako noon, off limits kami sa projects ng PAOCC. Hindi namin alam. Lately na lang namin nalalaman,” said Dela Rosa, when asked if anybody in the PAOCC knew of Nobleza and Dongon’s relationship. (You better ask the people from PAOCC, the people during President Aquino’s time. That’s their project, not ours. Although I was in the IG then, the PAOCC was off limits to us. We did not know. We only found out recently.)
Dela Rosa added: “Merong na-monitor pero iniimbestigahan pa, kaso 'yung PAOCC is under the Office of the President. Hindi 'yan under the PNP. Let’s make that clear.” (It was being monitored and investigated but the PAOCC is under the Office of the President. It is not under the PNP.)
The PAOCC, while staffed mostly by people from the PNP, is directly under the Office of the President. During the Aquino administration, it was headed by then-executive secretary Paquito Ochoa.
Explaining the dynamics between the PAOCC and the PNP, Mendez explained that while police personnel are assigned to the commission, they report to its hierarchy and not the PNP. Dela Rosa added that while they got bits and pieces of information, the bigger picture was never quite theirs to receive.
Dongon, who is in his 20s, was released after a fiscal dismissed the case “due to a technicality,” according to Dela Rosa.
Their relationship apparently continued, even after Dongon was later the subject of an arrest warrant for the death of two people in a bombing incident.
A woman’s frailties
Nobleza now faces both administrative and criminal complaints – for allegedly aiding a terrorist – as she is set to be detained in Camp Crame pending a judge’s orders. Dongon will also be likely transferred to Camp Crame, since he is also considered a high-risk personality.
The police investigation will cover Nobleza and Dongon’s relationship, their trip to Bohol, and the female cop’s interactions with fellow police.
Dongon is the brother-in-law of Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir, the target of a controversial 2013 police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. According to Rappler’s Maria Ressa, Dongon’s sister, Zainab, married Marwin after her husband, Abu Sayyaf leader Khadaffy Janjalani, was killed by government forces.
Another sister, Aminah, is married to Abu Solaiman, Janjalani's deputy. Yet another sister, Norain, is married to Ahmad Santos, the founder and leader of the Rajah Solaiman Movement (RSM) until his arrest in 2005. Another Dongon siblin, Rejivan alias Abu Tariq, is an Abu Sayyaf member and was a member of the RSM.
That’s the world Superintendent Nobleza, a police official whose previous posts include a stint in the Directorate of Intelligence, found herself in.
Dela Rosa said they are also looking into the chance that Dongon had used Nobleza to gain access to the PNP.
“Weakness ng babae 'yan. Emotionally attached ka sa isang tao kahit anong request sa ’yo, gagawin mo (That’s a woman’s weakness. When they’re emotionally attached to a person, they’ll do whatever request),” said Dela Rosa.
At the same time, Dela Rosa hinted that they weren’t discounting the possibility that the relationship was actually work for Nobleza, while emphasizing that her actions did not have the PNP’s stamp of approval.
Nobleza is married to another commissioned officer, a Senior Superintendent assigned as the police attache in Pakistan. The officer is now on his way back to the Philippines, said Dela Rosa.
Police have yet to find out when Nobleza left for Bohol.
Although she was assigned to the Crime Laboratory in Davao, she had apparently been Crame-based for Human Resource Management training. She travelled via land and sea on her Nissan Navara.
They still don’t know when or where she met up with Dongon or his relatives.
But what they will need to know soon is just how one of their own women wound up tangled in the Philippines’ complicated web of terror.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/167851-how-a-cop-and-alleged-terrorist-let-the-love-begin
Campaign boosted to declare 4 provinces insurgency-free
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 24): Campaign boosted to declare 4 provinces insurgency-free
The Army's 3rd Infantry Division has two options for the New People's Army in the four provinces of Negros and Panay that are yet to be declared insurgency-free.
To destroy them, or bring them back to the folds of the law will be our focus, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commander, said Saturday. He, however, did not elaborate about their plans.
Six of the 10 provinces in the Visayas, which are under the areas of operation of the 3ID, have already been declared insurgency-free.
These are Antique, Aklan, Guimaras, Siquijor, Cebu, and Bohol.
The provinces of Negros Occidental and Oriental, Iloilo and Capiz have yet to be declared insurgency-free, although they were already classified by their respective Provincial Peace and Order Councils as “peaceful and ready for further development”, with the concurrence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Asked if there is a target date for them to declare Negros island, Iloilo and Capiz as insurgency-free provinces, Aying said “as much as possible, we don't want to underestimate”.
“Maybe in the next six years, these four provinces will be cleared. We can achieve what we desire for insurgency-free provinces of Negros Occidental and Oriental, Iloilo and Capiz,” he added.
Under the stewardship of Aying, the 3ID launched its campaign “Pag-Uswag”, which aims to attain peace and security, as well as sustain development in the Negros Island Region, Western and Central Visayas.
The Pag-Uswag campaign plan also intends to destroy the peace-spoilers, help prevent the spill-over of terrorism, and secure the people affected by the activities of lawless groups and violent extremists.
Under the campaign plan, the 3ID is implementing the “Seven Angels of Change”, a strategy that has proven very effective in the Negros Island in 2013, and was initiated by Aying while he was the commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, based in Murcia, Negros Occidental.
The “Angels of Change” model is now being adopted in the whole area of operation of the 3ID, which includes law enforcement and use of force, peace building and peace process, legal cooperation, security sector reform initiatives, integrated community defense and public safety, grassroots community development, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
The campaign plan also includes “Marching for Peace, Serving the Countryside”, creation of the Provincial Peace Integration and Development Unit, Church-Military and Police Advisory Group, and Wellness Farm Program, which was originally implemented in Negros four years ago.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/April/24/negor1.htm
The Army's 3rd Infantry Division has two options for the New People's Army in the four provinces of Negros and Panay that are yet to be declared insurgency-free.
To destroy them, or bring them back to the folds of the law will be our focus, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commander, said Saturday. He, however, did not elaborate about their plans.
Six of the 10 provinces in the Visayas, which are under the areas of operation of the 3ID, have already been declared insurgency-free.
These are Antique, Aklan, Guimaras, Siquijor, Cebu, and Bohol.
The provinces of Negros Occidental and Oriental, Iloilo and Capiz have yet to be declared insurgency-free, although they were already classified by their respective Provincial Peace and Order Councils as “peaceful and ready for further development”, with the concurrence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Asked if there is a target date for them to declare Negros island, Iloilo and Capiz as insurgency-free provinces, Aying said “as much as possible, we don't want to underestimate”.
“Maybe in the next six years, these four provinces will be cleared. We can achieve what we desire for insurgency-free provinces of Negros Occidental and Oriental, Iloilo and Capiz,” he added.
Under the stewardship of Aying, the 3ID launched its campaign “Pag-Uswag”, which aims to attain peace and security, as well as sustain development in the Negros Island Region, Western and Central Visayas.
The Pag-Uswag campaign plan also intends to destroy the peace-spoilers, help prevent the spill-over of terrorism, and secure the people affected by the activities of lawless groups and violent extremists.
Under the campaign plan, the 3ID is implementing the “Seven Angels of Change”, a strategy that has proven very effective in the Negros Island in 2013, and was initiated by Aying while he was the commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, based in Murcia, Negros Occidental.
The “Angels of Change” model is now being adopted in the whole area of operation of the 3ID, which includes law enforcement and use of force, peace building and peace process, legal cooperation, security sector reform initiatives, integrated community defense and public safety, grassroots community development, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
The campaign plan also includes “Marching for Peace, Serving the Countryside”, creation of the Provincial Peace Integration and Development Unit, Church-Military and Police Advisory Group, and Wellness Farm Program, which was originally implemented in Negros four years ago.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/April/24/negor1.htm
No ASG-NPA collusion: Aying
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 24): No ASG-NPA collusion: Aying
The Army's 3rd Infantry Division yesterday debunked reports of “collusion” between the Abu Sayyaf bandits and the New People's Army in a bid to pursue their mission to kidnap prominent personalities in the Visayas.
There is no confirmation of that, said Aying, who graduated Saturday with a Doctorate in Public Administration degree from the West Negros University at a ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City.
It is more of hearsay than a report, he said.
Navy Capt. George Ibarra, Task Force Deter commander, raised the possibility of a “collusion” between the ASG bandits and the NPA, as they are also validating intelligence information about sightings of armed men in some areas of Santa Catalina town in Negros Oriental.
Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo said he was informed of suspected NPA rebels who fled from Bohol after the encounter, who were sighted in the villages of Fatima and Omanod in Sta. Catalina, on their way to Negros Occidental through Payaw-payawan.
Aying admitted that Joselito Milloria, alias Abu Allih, who was killed in the first encounter Saturday afternoon in Brgy. Bacani, Clarin town of Bohol, used to be a member of the NPA, before he became a Muslim convert. After his conversion, he went to Mindanao, and returned to Bohol, bringing with him 10 ASG bandits, he added.
He added that Melloria assumed leadership of the ASG stragglers, following the death of their leader, Muammar Askali alias Abu Rami on April 11, during an encounter in SitioYraya, Barangay Napo, Inabangatown,Bohol.
Melloria and three other ASG bandits died on Saturday, in a series of armed skirmishes in Brgy, Bacani, Clarin town of Bohol.
Aying, who supervises 3ID troops stationed in Negros Island Region, Western and Cebtera. He also reported that they have already accounted for eight ASG bandits, recovered seven high-powered firearms and a grenade launcher. There are now three of them left with one believed to be already dead and buried, Aying added.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command yesterday attributed the neutralization of four more Abu Sayaff bandits, who were killed in two encounters Saturday in SitioLagsing, Brgy. Bacani, Bohol, to the vigilance of the community that led to the successful operations of the military and police.
The neutralization of four ASG bandits also came three days after President Rodrigo Duterte announced that he will offer a P1 million cash reward for each member the terrorist group, who are in Bohol, killed.
Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, AFP Central Command chief, said that the continuous flow of information from civilian communities led the government forces to the exact locations where the armed group was temporarily hiding.
With their support, we are confident that we can totally eliminate the threat in Bohol, Lactao said.
Aying and Lactao used to command the 303 rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Occidental. Both are members of the Philippine Military Academy of Class 1984.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/April/24/topstory6.htm
The Army's 3rd Infantry Division yesterday debunked reports of “collusion” between the Abu Sayyaf bandits and the New People's Army in a bid to pursue their mission to kidnap prominent personalities in the Visayas.
There is no confirmation of that, said Aying, who graduated Saturday with a Doctorate in Public Administration degree from the West Negros University at a ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City.
It is more of hearsay than a report, he said.
Navy Capt. George Ibarra, Task Force Deter commander, raised the possibility of a “collusion” between the ASG bandits and the NPA, as they are also validating intelligence information about sightings of armed men in some areas of Santa Catalina town in Negros Oriental.
Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo said he was informed of suspected NPA rebels who fled from Bohol after the encounter, who were sighted in the villages of Fatima and Omanod in Sta. Catalina, on their way to Negros Occidental through Payaw-payawan.
Aying admitted that Joselito Milloria, alias Abu Allih, who was killed in the first encounter Saturday afternoon in Brgy. Bacani, Clarin town of Bohol, used to be a member of the NPA, before he became a Muslim convert. After his conversion, he went to Mindanao, and returned to Bohol, bringing with him 10 ASG bandits, he added.
He added that Melloria assumed leadership of the ASG stragglers, following the death of their leader, Muammar Askali alias Abu Rami on April 11, during an encounter in SitioYraya, Barangay Napo, Inabangatown,Bohol.
Melloria and three other ASG bandits died on Saturday, in a series of armed skirmishes in Brgy, Bacani, Clarin town of Bohol.
Aying, who supervises 3ID troops stationed in Negros Island Region, Western and Cebtera. He also reported that they have already accounted for eight ASG bandits, recovered seven high-powered firearms and a grenade launcher. There are now three of them left with one believed to be already dead and buried, Aying added.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command yesterday attributed the neutralization of four more Abu Sayaff bandits, who were killed in two encounters Saturday in SitioLagsing, Brgy. Bacani, Bohol, to the vigilance of the community that led to the successful operations of the military and police.
The neutralization of four ASG bandits also came three days after President Rodrigo Duterte announced that he will offer a P1 million cash reward for each member the terrorist group, who are in Bohol, killed.
Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, AFP Central Command chief, said that the continuous flow of information from civilian communities led the government forces to the exact locations where the armed group was temporarily hiding.
With their support, we are confident that we can totally eliminate the threat in Bohol, Lactao said.
Aying and Lactao used to command the 303 rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Occidental. Both are members of the Philippine Military Academy of Class 1984.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/April/24/topstory6.htm
PNA shapes the future of news gathering and dissemination
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): PNA shapes the future of news gathering and dissemination
Four decades since it first came to be, the Philippine News Agency (PNA), the country’s premiere wire service news provider, is finally moving into the future and getting a much-deserved facelift in the fast-paced world of the media industry.
Over the years, the PNA, its reporters and staff have done so much, given their meager resources in covering events, both local and international. Though short on equipment and decent facilities, PNA has endured hard times and much harder news coverage.
With the overwhelming win of President Rodrigo Duterte during the 2016 elections and his vision of change, particularly in government services, the PNA, which falls directly under the umbrella of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) under the helm of Secretary Martin Andanar, the agency is undergoing the needed change to put it at par with its counterparts in the ASEAN region and the world.
One major upgrade is a new and improved website, which replaces the old one that has been in use since 2003.
The new, interactive and user-friendly website has a new interface and adjusts to any mobile device -- be it, android or iOS. The PNA app is now also available from the website, pna.gov.ph or Google Play Store for free.
Andanar also revealed plans to expand and renovate the PNA headquarters. PNA’s new home will be a more conducive and efficiency-based workplace.
To make PNA a truly multi-platform media entity, the new PNA office will have facilities, such as a news studio, audio booth and monitoring screen. Andanar said that aside from providing printed news material and photographs, PNA will also be broadcasting news in video format through its partner agencies in the PCO Integrated News services.
”What inspired me to effect changes to the Philippine News Agency was one of my visits in Cebu. We all know that Cebu is the Queen City of the South. The office had one manager and one contractual worker. There was one laptop, which also belonged to the manager and the only desktop computer was a vintage, Pentium 3. If you have a news agency doing its best using the resources it has, then you should really salute to them. That is one thing that inspired me -- the dedication of the Philippine News Agency,” Andanar said Monday during the launch of the PNA's new website, held at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.
As consumer preferences evolve, so too will the PNA. No longer does the public get news stories from dailies or the evening news programs on television. The public wants to see news as it happens and demands constant updates, which is why the PNA has developed its own app for both Android and iOS mobile devices.
Until the Duterte Administration came along, the PNA had had to make do with dilapidated facilities and outdated equipment while covering the same events alongside the private media.
”The neglect of the PNA is a thing of the past now. This administration will get the much needed attention and support to overhaul and modernize its operations, starting with the launch of its new website interface, design and renovation of its office in Quezon City. The dream of a total makeover of the country’s official news agency is now beginning to turn into reality. Indeed change has come to the Philippine News Agency,” Andanar said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982191
Four decades since it first came to be, the Philippine News Agency (PNA), the country’s premiere wire service news provider, is finally moving into the future and getting a much-deserved facelift in the fast-paced world of the media industry.
Over the years, the PNA, its reporters and staff have done so much, given their meager resources in covering events, both local and international. Though short on equipment and decent facilities, PNA has endured hard times and much harder news coverage.
With the overwhelming win of President Rodrigo Duterte during the 2016 elections and his vision of change, particularly in government services, the PNA, which falls directly under the umbrella of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) under the helm of Secretary Martin Andanar, the agency is undergoing the needed change to put it at par with its counterparts in the ASEAN region and the world.
One major upgrade is a new and improved website, which replaces the old one that has been in use since 2003.
The new, interactive and user-friendly website has a new interface and adjusts to any mobile device -- be it, android or iOS. The PNA app is now also available from the website, pna.gov.ph or Google Play Store for free.
Andanar also revealed plans to expand and renovate the PNA headquarters. PNA’s new home will be a more conducive and efficiency-based workplace.
To make PNA a truly multi-platform media entity, the new PNA office will have facilities, such as a news studio, audio booth and monitoring screen. Andanar said that aside from providing printed news material and photographs, PNA will also be broadcasting news in video format through its partner agencies in the PCO Integrated News services.
”What inspired me to effect changes to the Philippine News Agency was one of my visits in Cebu. We all know that Cebu is the Queen City of the South. The office had one manager and one contractual worker. There was one laptop, which also belonged to the manager and the only desktop computer was a vintage, Pentium 3. If you have a news agency doing its best using the resources it has, then you should really salute to them. That is one thing that inspired me -- the dedication of the Philippine News Agency,” Andanar said Monday during the launch of the PNA's new website, held at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.
As consumer preferences evolve, so too will the PNA. No longer does the public get news stories from dailies or the evening news programs on television. The public wants to see news as it happens and demands constant updates, which is why the PNA has developed its own app for both Android and iOS mobile devices.
Until the Duterte Administration came along, the PNA had had to make do with dilapidated facilities and outdated equipment while covering the same events alongside the private media.
”The neglect of the PNA is a thing of the past now. This administration will get the much needed attention and support to overhaul and modernize its operations, starting with the launch of its new website interface, design and renovation of its office in Quezon City. The dream of a total makeover of the country’s official news agency is now beginning to turn into reality. Indeed change has come to the Philippine News Agency,” Andanar said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/982191
1st Inf Div: WESTMINCOM holds Battalion Commanders’ Symposium 2017 in Pagadian City
From the #TeamTabak (1st Infantry Division) Website (Apr 20): WESTMINCOM holds Battalion Commanders’ Symposium 2017 in Pagadian City
The Battalion Commanders’ Symposium (BCS) 2017 – WESTMINCOM leg, with the theme: “Competent and Dynamic Battalion Commanders, Key to Success of the AFP Development Service Support Plan (DSSP)”, was held at Mardale Hotel and Convention Center, Pagadian City on April 18 – 20, 2017.
The first BCS conducted by the Headquarters Philippine Army this year, this event was spearheaded by the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division to instill upon the battalion commanders on their critical role in advancing the Commander-in-Chief’s directives as stated in the AFP Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan”; and to update them on the current Command’s initiatives and programs in support to the AFP’s mission.
Participants of the BCS 2017 included 61 Battalion Commanders from Combat, Combat Support, and Combat Service Support Units from 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division and 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division.
The three-day symposium included talks and lectures of resource speakers from the military and civilian sectors.
Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles, who provided insights as a Local Chief Executive, emphasized that one way to effectively develop a community is to engage with various government agencies. He also encouraged the battalion commanders to maintain robust relationships with the local government units and support for the success of their development initiatives, which also contribute to the fulfilment of the Army’s duties and responsibilities.
BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA, Commander, 1st Infantry Division shared his insights on the role of the military in community development. He said that in addition to their tasks to maintain peace and security, military units must commit to contribute to the development of their community or area of responsibility. “Once we are given a task, we go for gold and always do our best”, he said.
LTGEN CARLITO G GALVEZ JR, AFP, Commander, Western Mindanao Command provided inspiration to the participants when he described the WESTMINCOM based battalion commanders as the “best among the bests”. He challenged them to level up and explore as leaders who should “go to where they have never been before.”
The arrival of Commanding General, Philippine Army, LTGEN GLORIOSO V MIRANDA, AFP highlighted the final day of BCS 2017. He motivated the battalion commanders in his keynote message: “Being a soldier is never easy. It will remain difficult but one has to accomplish its mission at any cost while putting the welfare of every soldier at the top. Soldiers must develop the ability to learn, to remember, and most importantly to adopt. For soldiers to succeed, they should never stop to imagine and think. Thay should always look forward and anticipate things.”
The CGPA also assured that the Headquarters Philippine Army is always open for the battalion’s concerns.
The Battalion Commander’s Symposium is a yearly program to update its Battalion Commanders on the current policies and thrust of the Philippine Army. The symposium was also a venue where the participants had the opportunity to discuss critical issues and strategies as well as best practices in peace and development.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/20/westmincom-holds-battalion-commanders-symposium-2017-pagadian-city/
The Battalion Commanders’ Symposium (BCS) 2017 – WESTMINCOM leg, with the theme: “Competent and Dynamic Battalion Commanders, Key to Success of the AFP Development Service Support Plan (DSSP)”, was held at Mardale Hotel and Convention Center, Pagadian City on April 18 – 20, 2017.
The first BCS conducted by the Headquarters Philippine Army this year, this event was spearheaded by the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division to instill upon the battalion commanders on their critical role in advancing the Commander-in-Chief’s directives as stated in the AFP Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan”; and to update them on the current Command’s initiatives and programs in support to the AFP’s mission.
Participants of the BCS 2017 included 61 Battalion Commanders from Combat, Combat Support, and Combat Service Support Units from 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division and 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division.
The three-day symposium included talks and lectures of resource speakers from the military and civilian sectors.
Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles, who provided insights as a Local Chief Executive, emphasized that one way to effectively develop a community is to engage with various government agencies. He also encouraged the battalion commanders to maintain robust relationships with the local government units and support for the success of their development initiatives, which also contribute to the fulfilment of the Army’s duties and responsibilities.
BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA, Commander, 1st Infantry Division shared his insights on the role of the military in community development. He said that in addition to their tasks to maintain peace and security, military units must commit to contribute to the development of their community or area of responsibility. “Once we are given a task, we go for gold and always do our best”, he said.
LTGEN CARLITO G GALVEZ JR, AFP, Commander, Western Mindanao Command provided inspiration to the participants when he described the WESTMINCOM based battalion commanders as the “best among the bests”. He challenged them to level up and explore as leaders who should “go to where they have never been before.”
The arrival of Commanding General, Philippine Army, LTGEN GLORIOSO V MIRANDA, AFP highlighted the final day of BCS 2017. He motivated the battalion commanders in his keynote message: “Being a soldier is never easy. It will remain difficult but one has to accomplish its mission at any cost while putting the welfare of every soldier at the top. Soldiers must develop the ability to learn, to remember, and most importantly to adopt. For soldiers to succeed, they should never stop to imagine and think. Thay should always look forward and anticipate things.”
The CGPA also assured that the Headquarters Philippine Army is always open for the battalion’s concerns.
The Battalion Commander’s Symposium is a yearly program to update its Battalion Commanders on the current policies and thrust of the Philippine Army. The symposium was also a venue where the participants had the opportunity to discuss critical issues and strategies as well as best practices in peace and development.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/20/westmincom-holds-battalion-commanders-symposium-2017-pagadian-city/
1st Inf Div: Troops encounter Local Terrorist Groups in Lanao del Sur
From the #TeamTabak (1st Infantry Division) Website (Apr 23): Troops encounter Local Terrorist Groups in Lanao del Sur
As part of continuous focused military operations in Lanao Province in accordance to the President and Commander-in-Chief Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directive to destroy local terrorist groups, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division/Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN conducted focused military operations in Piagapo Complex, Lanao del Sur starting midnight of April 21, 2017.
The operations resulted to a series of encounters between the operating troops of 103rd Infantry Brigade under 1st Infantry Division/JTF ZAMPELAN and undetermined number of local terrorist group members starting 1:00AM of the next day (April 22, 2017).
According to BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, coordination with the community and local government units paved the way to pinpoint the location of terrorist groups in Lanao del Sur.
At around 5:45AM today (April 23, 2017), intense firefight between the operating troops and local terrorist groups took place in the area and still ongoing as of this report.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/troops-encounter-local-terrorist-groups-in-lanao-del-sur/
As part of continuous focused military operations in Lanao Province in accordance to the President and Commander-in-Chief Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directive to destroy local terrorist groups, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division/Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN conducted focused military operations in Piagapo Complex, Lanao del Sur starting midnight of April 21, 2017.
The operations resulted to a series of encounters between the operating troops of 103rd Infantry Brigade under 1st Infantry Division/JTF ZAMPELAN and undetermined number of local terrorist group members starting 1:00AM of the next day (April 22, 2017).
According to BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, coordination with the community and local government units paved the way to pinpoint the location of terrorist groups in Lanao del Sur.
At around 5:45AM today (April 23, 2017), intense firefight between the operating troops and local terrorist groups took place in the area and still ongoing as of this report.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/troops-encounter-local-terrorist-groups-in-lanao-del-sur/
1ST Inf Div: #TeamTabak holds Media Fellowship, Funshoot activities
From the #TeamTabak (1st Infantry Division) Website (Apr 23): #TeamTabak holds Media Fellowship, Funshoot activities
As part of its efforts to strengthen relationships with the local media, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, held a Media Fellowship and Funshoot event at Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Saturday, April 22, 2017.
51 media practitioners from various organizations in Ozamis, Dipolog, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lanao del Sur Oroquita and Calamba areas participated in the events.
The activities aim to boost the camaraderie and enhance relationships between the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army and the Tabak Division Press Corps (TPDC-ATR Champion) members and also to increase the number of stakeholders’ engagement.
Cris Llamon of Pagadian-based media organization ABS/TV 24/ITVN and president of the TABAK Press Corps (TPDC-ATR Champion) said: “We are very thankful to the TABAK Division for spearheading this event. The Division can count on the TABAK Press Corps to support the Division’s initiatives in serving the people and protecting the land.”
During the event, the media group also formally announced its resolution to support the policies and thrust of the new Division Commander, BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.
The event also highlighted the launching of the Division’s official online presence, TEAMTABAK.COM along with its vigorous initiatives in strengthening its social media properties.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-holds-media-fellowship-funshoot-activities/
As part of its efforts to strengthen relationships with the local media, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, held a Media Fellowship and Funshoot event at Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Saturday, April 22, 2017.
51 media practitioners from various organizations in Ozamis, Dipolog, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lanao del Sur Oroquita and Calamba areas participated in the events.
The activities aim to boost the camaraderie and enhance relationships between the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army and the Tabak Division Press Corps (TPDC-ATR Champion) members and also to increase the number of stakeholders’ engagement.
Cris Llamon of Pagadian-based media organization ABS/TV 24/ITVN and president of the TABAK Press Corps (TPDC-ATR Champion) said: “We are very thankful to the TABAK Division for spearheading this event. The Division can count on the TABAK Press Corps to support the Division’s initiatives in serving the people and protecting the land.”
During the event, the media group also formally announced its resolution to support the policies and thrust of the new Division Commander, BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.
The event also highlighted the launching of the Division’s official online presence, TEAMTABAK.COM along with its vigorous initiatives in strengthening its social media properties.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-holds-media-fellowship-funshoot-activities/
1st Inf Div: #TeamTabak launches website, social media initiatives
From the #TeamTabak (1st Infantry Division) Website (Apr 23): #TeamTabak launches website, social media initiatives
To bring the Division closer to the people primarily to the communities in Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao Province and Misamis Occidental and to manifest its ability to trend with technological developments, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army formally launched TEAMTABAK.COM, the Division’s official online presence along with vigorous initiatives in strengthening its social media properties during the Media Fellowship event at Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Saturday, April 22, 2017.
The digital innovations on the Internet have offered new opportunities in reaching more people to promote TABAK’s advocacies efficiently. “We recognize that the Internet is an efficient platform to disseminate information about what we do – serving the community and protecting the land – for a wider reach anytime, anywhere. The Internet does not only allow us to have better access to knowledge and information, but it also facilitates easier and faster connection with others around the World. It opens up an entirely different venue for communication and dialogue between our organization and the people we serve. We intend to harness this power of the Internet in today’s digital environment,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.
BGEN BAUTISTA said TEAMTABAK.COM would also allow an easier alignment not only to the TABAK Division’s mission but also to higher headquarters of the Philippine Army. While keeping its constituents informed, TEAMTABAK.COM can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It will also allow the Division to reach more people not only in the Philippines, but also global communities all over the world.
“A vital asset for information support in our operations, TEAMTABAK.COM will give a better appreciation to effectively and efficiently address interests, issues and challenges in carrying out the Division’s mission,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
“We are able to establish a platform that would make communications easier and paint a picture of what TABAK really is as we reach and engage more people in the digital world, our website would pave way to a meaningful form of communication to our Brigades and other AFP and PNP units, the local media, and other agencies and stakeholders,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
“Information dissemination is one of our objectives in creating TEAMTABAK.COM as we are more open through posting projects of the division. Over the years, we have conducted several medical and dental missions, and other community service activities that reached out to barangays in our area of operation. Through these, we are able to change the mindset of the general public that we, soldiers can do good; we are able to change what we are perceived to be,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
With about 60% of the Philippine’s population now accessing the Internet, it is imperative to establish an online presence for the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division. As a valuable information dissemination asset to its organization, TEAMTABAK.COM can provide a real-time visualization of press releases, news and updates element for the media and will be available to anyone as a community platform. TEAMTABAK.COM will feature content not only about the military but about the community that the TABAK Division serves.
In the video presentation of TEAMTABAK.COM launching with the theme: “Strength in Online Presence, Enhancing Digital Media Capability,” it was stated that the new website will showcase “the Division’s best efforts toward the achievement of the Armed Forces of the Philippine’s Ultimate Vision: A World-Class Armed Forces and Source of National Pride.”
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-launches-website-social-media-initiatives/
To bring the Division closer to the people primarily to the communities in Zamboanga Peninsula, Lanao Province and Misamis Occidental and to manifest its ability to trend with technological developments, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army formally launched TEAMTABAK.COM, the Division’s official online presence along with vigorous initiatives in strengthening its social media properties during the Media Fellowship event at Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Saturday, April 22, 2017.
The digital innovations on the Internet have offered new opportunities in reaching more people to promote TABAK’s advocacies efficiently. “We recognize that the Internet is an efficient platform to disseminate information about what we do – serving the community and protecting the land – for a wider reach anytime, anywhere. The Internet does not only allow us to have better access to knowledge and information, but it also facilitates easier and faster connection with others around the World. It opens up an entirely different venue for communication and dialogue between our organization and the people we serve. We intend to harness this power of the Internet in today’s digital environment,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.
BGEN BAUTISTA said TEAMTABAK.COM would also allow an easier alignment not only to the TABAK Division’s mission but also to higher headquarters of the Philippine Army. While keeping its constituents informed, TEAMTABAK.COM can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It will also allow the Division to reach more people not only in the Philippines, but also global communities all over the world.
“A vital asset for information support in our operations, TEAMTABAK.COM will give a better appreciation to effectively and efficiently address interests, issues and challenges in carrying out the Division’s mission,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
“We are able to establish a platform that would make communications easier and paint a picture of what TABAK really is as we reach and engage more people in the digital world, our website would pave way to a meaningful form of communication to our Brigades and other AFP and PNP units, the local media, and other agencies and stakeholders,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
“Information dissemination is one of our objectives in creating TEAMTABAK.COM as we are more open through posting projects of the division. Over the years, we have conducted several medical and dental missions, and other community service activities that reached out to barangays in our area of operation. Through these, we are able to change the mindset of the general public that we, soldiers can do good; we are able to change what we are perceived to be,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.
With about 60% of the Philippine’s population now accessing the Internet, it is imperative to establish an online presence for the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division. As a valuable information dissemination asset to its organization, TEAMTABAK.COM can provide a real-time visualization of press releases, news and updates element for the media and will be available to anyone as a community platform. TEAMTABAK.COM will feature content not only about the military but about the community that the TABAK Division serves.
In the video presentation of TEAMTABAK.COM launching with the theme: “Strength in Online Presence, Enhancing Digital Media Capability,” it was stated that the new website will showcase “the Division’s best efforts toward the achievement of the Armed Forces of the Philippine’s Ultimate Vision: A World-Class Armed Forces and Source of National Pride.”
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-launches-website-social-media-initiatives/
1st Inf Div: #TeamTabak holds ‘Libreng Opera sa mga Bungi ug Ngoho’
From the #TeamTabak (1st Infantry Division) Website (Apr 23): #TeamTabak holds ‘Libreng Opera sa mga Bungi ug Ngoho’
As part of the month-long celebration of its 81st Founding Anniversary, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army held the “Libreng Opera sa mga Bungi ug Ngoho (Free Harelip Operation)” at the Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an Station Hospital, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on April 19-23, 2017.
The beneficiaries of this activity included 67 patients with harelip condition mostly children from the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.
This surgical mission that covered cleft lip and cleft palate operations was conducted in partnership with the Alpha Phi Omega Project Brotherhood Sweet Smile (BOSS) and Advance Craniofacial Project Philippines Incorporated Foundation (ACPPIF).
Among those who participated in this medical mission included doctors from ACPPIF and the APO Project BOSS founders Belton T. Yenko and Gaudiosa C. Rota.
“With the unified efforts of stakeholders and your 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, there is now a reason to smile for the poor beneficiaries who were once victims of embarrassment and ridicule,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-holds-libreng-opera-sa-mga-bungi-ug-ngoho/
As part of the month-long celebration of its 81st Founding Anniversary, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army held the “Libreng Opera sa mga Bungi ug Ngoho (Free Harelip Operation)” at the Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an Station Hospital, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on April 19-23, 2017.
The beneficiaries of this activity included 67 patients with harelip condition mostly children from the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.
This surgical mission that covered cleft lip and cleft palate operations was conducted in partnership with the Alpha Phi Omega Project Brotherhood Sweet Smile (BOSS) and Advance Craniofacial Project Philippines Incorporated Foundation (ACPPIF).
Among those who participated in this medical mission included doctors from ACPPIF and the APO Project BOSS founders Belton T. Yenko and Gaudiosa C. Rota.
“With the unified efforts of stakeholders and your 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, there is now a reason to smile for the poor beneficiaries who were once victims of embarrassment and ridicule,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army.
http://teamtabak.com/2017/04/23/teamtabak-holds-libreng-opera-sa-mga-bungi-ug-ngoho/
DWDD: Mayapay Tribe conduct “Inpandawatan Ritual” for Masigasig Troopers
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 24): Mayapay Tribe conduct “Inpandawatan Ritual” for Masigasig Troopers
Buenavista, Agusan del Norte – An Inpandawatan Ritual of Mayapay Tribal Council (MATRICO) was conducted atHeadquarters 23rd Infantry (MASIGASIG) Battalion, 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division, Philippine Army, Purok-6, Brgy Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte Friday morning, April 22, 2017.
The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion recognizes the existence and claims of the different IPs and tribes within its Area of Operation. The unit also respects their customs and traditions particularly the conduct of “Inpandawatan Ritual” in order to strengthen its relationship with the IP stakeholders towards achieving peace and development in the area.
A ritual is usually conducted amongst different tribes in the area to settle misunderstandings and/or acceptance of certain customs and traditions of a particular tribe. Living or settling of a community within the tribal domain of a particular tribe needs the acceptance and blessing of that particular tribe. This ritual is called “Inpandawatan Ritual” or “The Acceptance of Tribe”.
The ritual started at around 9:00 o’clock in the morning that was facilitated by the Masigasig troopers and participated by the different tribal leaders from Mayapay Tribal Council. It was officiated by Richard “Datu Malakas” L Gubaton the “Baylan” of the tribe. The ritual continued with the “Baylan” calling for the “Supernaturals” in the area for the soldier’s safe and peaceful stay in the area.
Datu Malakas then explained why the ritual is needed between the Mayapay Tribal Council and the 23rd IB. The importance of Inpandawatan Ritual is to determine and resolve any misunderstanding between the Tribe and the 23rd IB.” Datu Malakas stated.
Meanwhile Lieutenant Colonel Emil J Cruz the Battalion Commander of 23rd IB said that “We the 23rd IB give our full support to the IPs and tribes within our area and asked permission to the Tribe regarding our stay in their tribal domain.”
All of us wanted to live peacefully in the land of promise, free from harassment and intimidation. Let us condemn those who threaten to use violence against the people of Agusan del Norte, Cruz added.
A certificate of Free Prior Informal Consent (FPIC) was handed to the unit then it’s Commanding Officer LTC Emil J Cruz at the end of the program attest that the Mayapay Tribe allowed and approved the presence of the military unit (23IB) in the area to secure the peace and unity of the Tribe people within the Ancestral Domain.
Thereafter simple boodle fight followed the activity where Masigasig troopers and members of Mayapay Tribal Council strengthened their resolve for peace and development.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/mayapay-tribe-conduct-inpandawatan-ritual-for-masigasig-troopers/
Buenavista, Agusan del Norte – An Inpandawatan Ritual of Mayapay Tribal Council (MATRICO) was conducted atHeadquarters 23rd Infantry (MASIGASIG) Battalion, 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division, Philippine Army, Purok-6, Brgy Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte Friday morning, April 22, 2017.
The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion recognizes the existence and claims of the different IPs and tribes within its Area of Operation. The unit also respects their customs and traditions particularly the conduct of “Inpandawatan Ritual” in order to strengthen its relationship with the IP stakeholders towards achieving peace and development in the area.
A ritual is usually conducted amongst different tribes in the area to settle misunderstandings and/or acceptance of certain customs and traditions of a particular tribe. Living or settling of a community within the tribal domain of a particular tribe needs the acceptance and blessing of that particular tribe. This ritual is called “Inpandawatan Ritual” or “The Acceptance of Tribe”.
The ritual started at around 9:00 o’clock in the morning that was facilitated by the Masigasig troopers and participated by the different tribal leaders from Mayapay Tribal Council. It was officiated by Richard “Datu Malakas” L Gubaton the “Baylan” of the tribe. The ritual continued with the “Baylan” calling for the “Supernaturals” in the area for the soldier’s safe and peaceful stay in the area.
Datu Malakas then explained why the ritual is needed between the Mayapay Tribal Council and the 23rd IB. The importance of Inpandawatan Ritual is to determine and resolve any misunderstanding between the Tribe and the 23rd IB.” Datu Malakas stated.
Meanwhile Lieutenant Colonel Emil J Cruz the Battalion Commander of 23rd IB said that “We the 23rd IB give our full support to the IPs and tribes within our area and asked permission to the Tribe regarding our stay in their tribal domain.”
All of us wanted to live peacefully in the land of promise, free from harassment and intimidation. Let us condemn those who threaten to use violence against the people of Agusan del Norte, Cruz added.
A certificate of Free Prior Informal Consent (FPIC) was handed to the unit then it’s Commanding Officer LTC Emil J Cruz at the end of the program attest that the Mayapay Tribe allowed and approved the presence of the military unit (23IB) in the area to secure the peace and unity of the Tribe people within the Ancestral Domain.
Thereafter simple boodle fight followed the activity where Masigasig troopers and members of Mayapay Tribal Council strengthened their resolve for peace and development.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/mayapay-tribe-conduct-inpandawatan-ritual-for-masigasig-troopers/
DWDD: 4 ASG Terrorists Killed, 3 High-powered FAs Seized
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 24): 4 ASG Terrorists Killed, 3 High-powered FAs Seized
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City– The unrelenting law enforcement operations by the combined forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) aided by critical information harnessed from their active collaboration with local government executives and civilian residents of the communities has paid off.
“Four (4) of the six (6) or seven (7) remnants of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) once led by Muamar Askali @Abu Rami who attempted to establish foothold in Inabanga, Bohol suffered the same fate as their cohorts,” reports Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo, Chief of AFP Public Affairs.
“The hunt continues for the remaining two or three terrorists who were part of the band that attempted to establish a foothold in Bohol but failed. We have reports indicating that they were also wounded and running out of supplies,” Arevalo added.
The AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año issued a warning to terrorists, “The AFP has sent a very strong message: do not attempt to propagate your nefarious activities.
“You will suffer the same fatal consequences as these terrorists for attempting to bring in terror and havoc to this tranquil Province of Bohol– or in other places in the country for that matter.”
In a series of encounters last Saturday, 22 April 2017 in Barangay Bacani, Clarin town in Bohol, said four (4) terrorists were neutralized– one after the other in a running gun battle.
At 12: 50PM, Joselito Milloria, a former villager of Inabanga who became a Muslim convert (also known as Abu Alih) and later guided the terrorists to his former hometown was first to succumb to the determined security forces tracking him on the ground under the leadership of Brig Gen Arnulfo Matanguihan, Commander of the Army 302nd Brigade and Police Chief Superintendent Noli Taliño, Police Regional Director.
Milloria traded shots, was killed in the process, and yielded a Galil rifle with M203 Grenade Launcher attached and several rounds of ammunition.
The operations continue and another armed encounter erupted at 8PM. Three (3) more members of the ASG were neutralized. Two more high-powered firearms were seized–a M16 and a M14 with rounds of ammunition.
As at press time, only Milloria @Abu Alih has been identified. The identities of the latest fatalities were being established.
LTGen Oscar Lactao, Commander of the AFP’s Central Command that has Bohol in his Area of Operation and who has been directing the conduct of joint operations commend the operating units and the civilians in the area.
“I give my commendations to the local government leaders, the local residents, and to every Soldier, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Policemen. Through their incessant hard work, patience, skillful coordination, and concerted efforts poured in to support this operation, we have attained this excellent result.
“We salute our patriotic citizens and the dedicated local government leaders who have been very vigilant and actively engaged in providing information and giving their full support and cooperation to the security forces to effectively thwart the evil designs of these terrorists,” LTGen Lactao said in a statement.
The AFP Chief General Eduardo Año who has been on top of the operations since the ASG was reported to have left Sulu early April expressed his elation and kudos to the troops for this series of successful operations.
(He was with the Secretary of the Department of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana and the Commander-in-Chief President Rodrigo Duterte who visited Bohol recently.)
General Año addressed his men in the frontline, “I commend Brigadier General Arnulfo Matanguihan the Commander of 302nd Army Brigade and his counterparts at the PNP in Bohol. The entire AFP takes pride of your excellent conduct of the operations–from deliberate planning to skillful execution.
“Rest not in your laurels though even after we have neutralized the remaining two or three remnants of this terrorist group if they are still alive.
“We have communities and people to protect and secure.
“We will, by these testaments of your determination, valor, hard work, civil-military support and coordination with the citizens and local government leaders, continue to convince our fellow Filipinos especially in the grassroots that if we all work to get our acts together, we will achieve victories.
“That we can triumph not only against terrorists but also against terrorism, criminality, and other security challenges,” concludes General Año.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/4-asg-terrorists-killed-3-high-powered-fas-seized/
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City– The unrelenting law enforcement operations by the combined forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) aided by critical information harnessed from their active collaboration with local government executives and civilian residents of the communities has paid off.
“Four (4) of the six (6) or seven (7) remnants of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) once led by Muamar Askali @Abu Rami who attempted to establish foothold in Inabanga, Bohol suffered the same fate as their cohorts,” reports Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo, Chief of AFP Public Affairs.
“The hunt continues for the remaining two or three terrorists who were part of the band that attempted to establish a foothold in Bohol but failed. We have reports indicating that they were also wounded and running out of supplies,” Arevalo added.
The AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año issued a warning to terrorists, “The AFP has sent a very strong message: do not attempt to propagate your nefarious activities.
“You will suffer the same fatal consequences as these terrorists for attempting to bring in terror and havoc to this tranquil Province of Bohol– or in other places in the country for that matter.”
In a series of encounters last Saturday, 22 April 2017 in Barangay Bacani, Clarin town in Bohol, said four (4) terrorists were neutralized– one after the other in a running gun battle.
At 12: 50PM, Joselito Milloria, a former villager of Inabanga who became a Muslim convert (also known as Abu Alih) and later guided the terrorists to his former hometown was first to succumb to the determined security forces tracking him on the ground under the leadership of Brig Gen Arnulfo Matanguihan, Commander of the Army 302nd Brigade and Police Chief Superintendent Noli Taliño, Police Regional Director.
Milloria traded shots, was killed in the process, and yielded a Galil rifle with M203 Grenade Launcher attached and several rounds of ammunition.
The operations continue and another armed encounter erupted at 8PM. Three (3) more members of the ASG were neutralized. Two more high-powered firearms were seized–a M16 and a M14 with rounds of ammunition.
As at press time, only Milloria @Abu Alih has been identified. The identities of the latest fatalities were being established.
LTGen Oscar Lactao, Commander of the AFP’s Central Command that has Bohol in his Area of Operation and who has been directing the conduct of joint operations commend the operating units and the civilians in the area.
“I give my commendations to the local government leaders, the local residents, and to every Soldier, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Policemen. Through their incessant hard work, patience, skillful coordination, and concerted efforts poured in to support this operation, we have attained this excellent result.
“We salute our patriotic citizens and the dedicated local government leaders who have been very vigilant and actively engaged in providing information and giving their full support and cooperation to the security forces to effectively thwart the evil designs of these terrorists,” LTGen Lactao said in a statement.
The AFP Chief General Eduardo Año who has been on top of the operations since the ASG was reported to have left Sulu early April expressed his elation and kudos to the troops for this series of successful operations.
(He was with the Secretary of the Department of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana and the Commander-in-Chief President Rodrigo Duterte who visited Bohol recently.)
General Año addressed his men in the frontline, “I commend Brigadier General Arnulfo Matanguihan the Commander of 302nd Army Brigade and his counterparts at the PNP in Bohol. The entire AFP takes pride of your excellent conduct of the operations–from deliberate planning to skillful execution.
“Rest not in your laurels though even after we have neutralized the remaining two or three remnants of this terrorist group if they are still alive.
“We have communities and people to protect and secure.
“We will, by these testaments of your determination, valor, hard work, civil-military support and coordination with the citizens and local government leaders, continue to convince our fellow Filipinos especially in the grassroots that if we all work to get our acts together, we will achieve victories.
“That we can triumph not only against terrorists but also against terrorism, criminality, and other security challenges,” concludes General Año.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/4-asg-terrorists-killed-3-high-powered-fas-seized/
DWDD: 21 Gov’t Agencies Mobilized For ASEAN 2017 Security
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 24): 21 Gov’t Agencies Mobilized For ASEAN 2017 Security
A 40,000-strong multi-agency contingent was mobilized today as government completes final preparations for the 30th ASEAN Summit 2017 in Manila on April 26-29 among heads of 10 ASEAN-member nations, dialogue partners, observer states and their respective delegations.
DILG Officer-in-Charge, Usec Catalino Cuy, who is Chairperson of the ASEAN 2017 Committee on Security , Peace and Order, Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSPOEPR) said a total of 40,877 personnel from 21 agencies comprise the CSPOEPR including AFP, PSG, NBI, BI, NICA, PCTC, MIAA, CAAP, PCG, BFP, BJMP, DPWH, MMDA, NDRRMC, LTO, DOTr, DOT and others.
According to PNP Chief, Director General Ronald M Dela Rosa, the PNP provides the muscle for the security and peace and order component thru the ASEAN Security Task Force under Police Director Napoleon Taas that is fielding 27,425 PNP personnel distributed among different Task Groups deployed for close-in VIP security for delegates, area and route security, airport security, bay & river seaborne patrol, EOD/K9, Light Reaction/SWAT, CDM operations, Traffic Management, Intelligence and Investigation, Emergency Medical Response, and Command and Control.
Ambassador Marciano A. Paynor Jr, Director-General for Operations of ASEAN 2017 National Organizing Council (NOC) led the official activation and send-off ceremony for the 40,000-strong ASEAN 2017 CSPOEPR this morning at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
PNP Chief Dela Rosa, who is also a member of the ASEAN 2017-NOC said the PNP has already fine-tuned almost every aspect and detail of this elaborate security operation thru the ASEAN Security Task Force in coordination with the ASEAN-NOC and participating agencies. (PNP-PIO)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/21-govt-agencies-mobilized-for-asean-2017-security/
A 40,000-strong multi-agency contingent was mobilized today as government completes final preparations for the 30th ASEAN Summit 2017 in Manila on April 26-29 among heads of 10 ASEAN-member nations, dialogue partners, observer states and their respective delegations.
DILG Officer-in-Charge, Usec Catalino Cuy, who is Chairperson of the ASEAN 2017 Committee on Security , Peace and Order, Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSPOEPR) said a total of 40,877 personnel from 21 agencies comprise the CSPOEPR including AFP, PSG, NBI, BI, NICA, PCTC, MIAA, CAAP, PCG, BFP, BJMP, DPWH, MMDA, NDRRMC, LTO, DOTr, DOT and others.
According to PNP Chief, Director General Ronald M Dela Rosa, the PNP provides the muscle for the security and peace and order component thru the ASEAN Security Task Force under Police Director Napoleon Taas that is fielding 27,425 PNP personnel distributed among different Task Groups deployed for close-in VIP security for delegates, area and route security, airport security, bay & river seaborne patrol, EOD/K9, Light Reaction/SWAT, CDM operations, Traffic Management, Intelligence and Investigation, Emergency Medical Response, and Command and Control.
Ambassador Marciano A. Paynor Jr, Director-General for Operations of ASEAN 2017 National Organizing Council (NOC) led the official activation and send-off ceremony for the 40,000-strong ASEAN 2017 CSPOEPR this morning at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
PNP Chief Dela Rosa, who is also a member of the ASEAN 2017-NOC said the PNP has already fine-tuned almost every aspect and detail of this elaborate security operation thru the ASEAN Security Task Force in coordination with the ASEAN-NOC and participating agencies. (PNP-PIO)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/21-govt-agencies-mobilized-for-asean-2017-security/
DWDD: Balikatan 2017 refocuses on HADR and Counter Terrorism
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 24): Balikatan 2017 refocuses on HADR and Counter Terrorism
The Government of the Philippines has invited U.S. forces to train alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the 33rd iteration of Exercise Balikatan, May 8 to 19, at multiple locations in Luzon and the Visayas region.
Philippine and U.S. forces will kick off Exercise Balikatan 33-2017 through community engagement activities in Panay, Leyte and Samar. U.S. and Filipino service members will work together to renovate five schools and conduct community medical engagements with local residents in the opening days of the 12-day military training activity. Preliminary work on community infrastructure projects began mid-April.
Balikatan 33-2017 incorporates high-value training events designed to enhance the capabilities of both AFP and U.S. armed forces. The training focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in order to improve response effectiveness and speed in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.
The Mutual Defense Board and the Security Engagement Board have carefully included President Duterte’s guidance for this year’s exercise. The series of events manifests the exercise’s refocus to Humanitarian Civil Assistance, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response, and Counter Terrorism. The entire exercise follows a single-scenario concept where a super typhoon devastates areas along its route in the areas of Central Command, National Capital Region, and Northern Luzon.
This year’s exercise will have AFP and U.S. forces partnering to improve their counterterrorism capabilities in order to build safer communities and work towards the eradication of global terror networks. During Balikatan, U.S. and Philippine forces will conduct operational and counterterrorism training exercises in diverse areas of expertise, including advanced marksmanship, counter improvised explosive devices (IED), and maritime interdiction against piracy.
In this year’s Balikatan, the Philippines and the United States will continue to collaborate with regional partner nations: forces from Australia and Japan will participate in all major training events, and the AFP has invited military forces from several other nations to be part of the International Observers Program.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/bk2017/
The Government of the Philippines has invited U.S. forces to train alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the 33rd iteration of Exercise Balikatan, May 8 to 19, at multiple locations in Luzon and the Visayas region.
Philippine and U.S. forces will kick off Exercise Balikatan 33-2017 through community engagement activities in Panay, Leyte and Samar. U.S. and Filipino service members will work together to renovate five schools and conduct community medical engagements with local residents in the opening days of the 12-day military training activity. Preliminary work on community infrastructure projects began mid-April.
Balikatan 33-2017 incorporates high-value training events designed to enhance the capabilities of both AFP and U.S. armed forces. The training focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in order to improve response effectiveness and speed in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.
The Mutual Defense Board and the Security Engagement Board have carefully included President Duterte’s guidance for this year’s exercise. The series of events manifests the exercise’s refocus to Humanitarian Civil Assistance, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response, and Counter Terrorism. The entire exercise follows a single-scenario concept where a super typhoon devastates areas along its route in the areas of Central Command, National Capital Region, and Northern Luzon.
This year’s exercise will have AFP and U.S. forces partnering to improve their counterterrorism capabilities in order to build safer communities and work towards the eradication of global terror networks. During Balikatan, U.S. and Philippine forces will conduct operational and counterterrorism training exercises in diverse areas of expertise, including advanced marksmanship, counter improvised explosive devices (IED), and maritime interdiction against piracy.
In this year’s Balikatan, the Philippines and the United States will continue to collaborate with regional partner nations: forces from Australia and Japan will participate in all major training events, and the AFP has invited military forces from several other nations to be part of the International Observers Program.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/bk2017/
DWDD: Joint operations in Lanao del Sur kills 36 Maute members
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 24): Joint operations in Lanao del Sur kills 36 Maute members
The Combined Arms elements of 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army and tactical operations units of the Philippine Airforce conducted focused military operations against more or less 162 members of Local Terrorist Group (LTG) – Maute Group in Piagapo Complex, Lanao del Sur starting midnight of April 21, 2017.
The continuous focused military operations are in accordance to the President and Commander-in-Chief Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directive to destroy local terrorists groups not later than July 31, 2017.
The 103rd Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army headed by BGEN NIXON C FORTES AFP reported 36 members of the Maute group were killed during the 3 days combat operations, which led to the seizure and occupation of enemy’s main encampment with fortified bunkers, fighting positions, and running trenches at Sitio Pagalungan, Brgy Gacap, Municipality of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur. Whereas, the government forces sustained 3 wounded in action (WIA) caused by shrapnel and bullet wound.
Aside from the enemies killed, 1 cadaver wearing camouflage uniform was recovered during the initial search. Further, various war materials were recovered in the encounter site: Fragmentation and rifle grenades; IED components such as blasting caps, detonating wire, and cellphones; video camera; assorted uniforms, literature’ and identifications of personalities; three (3) motorcycles; food stuffs; and passport of an Indonesian national.
According to BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army, combination of lethal and non-lethal effects were implemented to force the LTG out of its current stronghold and compelled them to break into smaller groups. Moreover, BGEN Bautista stressed the application of proportionate force such as surgical airstrikes and precisions to avoid collateral damage towards non-combatants.
The recruitment of teenagers conducted by LTG at Brgy Tambo and the establishment of their camp near their village at the boundary of Balindong and Piagapo towns forced the communities to coordinate and report the LTG activities to the military.
“The Government forces, Local Government Units, and communities will continue to work hand in hand to thwart banditry and terroristic activities and to ensure security, peace and development in Piagapo and adjacent municipalities,” BGEN Bautista said.
The success is the result of a nonstop collaboration and partnership with the military, LGUs and populace in the collective battle against terrorism, banditry and criminality.
Interagency and law enforcement operations in support of the Police and LGUs are continuously being implemented by the military in various places to prevent LTGs diversionary attacks. (http://teamtabak.com)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/joint-operations-in-lanao-del-sur-kills-36-maute-members/
The Combined Arms elements of 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army and tactical operations units of the Philippine Airforce conducted focused military operations against more or less 162 members of Local Terrorist Group (LTG) – Maute Group in Piagapo Complex, Lanao del Sur starting midnight of April 21, 2017.
The continuous focused military operations are in accordance to the President and Commander-in-Chief Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directive to destroy local terrorists groups not later than July 31, 2017.
The 103rd Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army headed by BGEN NIXON C FORTES AFP reported 36 members of the Maute group were killed during the 3 days combat operations, which led to the seizure and occupation of enemy’s main encampment with fortified bunkers, fighting positions, and running trenches at Sitio Pagalungan, Brgy Gacap, Municipality of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur. Whereas, the government forces sustained 3 wounded in action (WIA) caused by shrapnel and bullet wound.
Aside from the enemies killed, 1 cadaver wearing camouflage uniform was recovered during the initial search. Further, various war materials were recovered in the encounter site: Fragmentation and rifle grenades; IED components such as blasting caps, detonating wire, and cellphones; video camera; assorted uniforms, literature’ and identifications of personalities; three (3) motorcycles; food stuffs; and passport of an Indonesian national.
According to BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO D BAUTISTA AFP, Commander, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army, combination of lethal and non-lethal effects were implemented to force the LTG out of its current stronghold and compelled them to break into smaller groups. Moreover, BGEN Bautista stressed the application of proportionate force such as surgical airstrikes and precisions to avoid collateral damage towards non-combatants.
The recruitment of teenagers conducted by LTG at Brgy Tambo and the establishment of their camp near their village at the boundary of Balindong and Piagapo towns forced the communities to coordinate and report the LTG activities to the military.
“The Government forces, Local Government Units, and communities will continue to work hand in hand to thwart banditry and terroristic activities and to ensure security, peace and development in Piagapo and adjacent municipalities,” BGEN Bautista said.
The success is the result of a nonstop collaboration and partnership with the military, LGUs and populace in the collective battle against terrorism, banditry and criminality.
Interagency and law enforcement operations in support of the Police and LGUs are continuously being implemented by the military in various places to prevent LTGs diversionary attacks. (http://teamtabak.com)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/24/joint-operations-in-lanao-del-sur-kills-36-maute-members/
MNLF: Photos: Lt. Gen. ABRAHAM JOEL, CHIEF OF STAFF, BAF MNLF and ABDURADDUL ABDUHAJAN, Brigade Commander, FIST FORCE 1 SULU
From the MNLF Never Die Facebook page of Makin Habduhajan (Apr 21): Photos: Lt. Gen. ABRAHAM JOEL, CHIEF OF STAFF, BAF MNLF and ABDURADDUL ABDUHAJAN, Brigade Commander, FIST FORCE 1 SULU
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970136700388&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970220033713&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970303367038&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970423367026&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
Lt. Gen. ABRAHAM JOEL
CHIEF OF STAFF
BAF MNLF
----
ABDURADDUL ABDUHAJAN...
Brigade Commander
FIST FORCE 1 SULU
and
MNLF FORCES
Camp Astana, Bakud Kagay, Indanan State of Lupah Sug in the " LAND BELOW THE WIND "
https://www.facebook.com/makin.abduhajan?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970136700388&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970220033713&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970303367038&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1466970423367026&set=pcb.1466984076698994&type=3&theater
Lt. Gen. ABRAHAM JOEL
CHIEF OF STAFF
BAF MNLF
----
ABDURADDUL ABDUHAJAN...
Brigade Commander
FIST FORCE 1 SULU
and
MNLF FORCES
Camp Astana, Bakud Kagay, Indanan State of Lupah Sug in the " LAND BELOW THE WIND "
https://www.facebook.com/makin.abduhajan?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE
PHL explores paths to modern defense (Pt. 2)
From the Business Mirror (Apr 24): PHL explores paths to modern defense (Pt. 2)
In Photo: This file photo shows members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in a parade at the AFP Headquarters in Quezon City. It was during the martial law years when the AFP became the object of envy not only by its Asean neighbors, but even by the top militaries in Asia because of its advanced assets and equipment, making the Philippines an Asian military power.
Part Two
THE previous administration has endowed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with more than P65 billion worth of equipment, and allowed the AFP to make a giant leap from its decrepit and vintage assets. However, the country’s modernization spending still pales in comparison with its military neighbors in Southeast Asia.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri) and the United States-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), while the military has been given its biggest budget yet during the past administration, the AFP still sits near the bottom in terms of acquisition when compared with the other Asean members.
It even occupied the last spot when compared with regional military powerhouse, such as China, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.
According to an earlier assessment of the CSIS, the country’s defense spending in 2014—the year that the Department of National Defense was on a procurement binge for the military—was at $3.3 billion. This amount was only slightly higher by 2 percent from 2013.
The year 2014 was historic for the military, as it was during this period when the AFP got hold of the biggest modernization funds in its entire history.
The country’s defense spending that year represented about 9 percent of the total defense spending in the region. The amount also represented about 1.1 percent of the country’s GDP and about 6 percent of the total government spending. However, this was still below the Asean average of 8.8 percent.
The CSIS, a think tank, said that between 2010 and 2014, Manila’s defense spending skyrocketed by about 35 percent, which was near the regional average of 37.6 percent during that period.
Stale spending
FROM the time of the administration of Fidel V. Ramos up to the term of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, modernization spending was stale. Even the paltry funds were used for the repair of the military’s World War II vintage assets, instead of being spent for acquisition, as originally earmarked.
The failure, or more appropriately the neglect of the three previous administrations—including the aborted term of former actor and President Joseph E. Estrada—to allocate funds and pursue the modernization of the military as mandated by law, led to the degeneration of the AFP as the least developed among the militaries in the region.
It was different during the martial law years, when the AFP was the object of envy not only by its Asean neighbors, but even by the top militaries in Asia because of its advanced assets and equipment, making it an Asian military power.
The Philippines even beat Japan by becoming the first country outside the US at that time to have F-5 fighter planes. Incidentally, it is now Tokyo that is among the list of countries helping Manila in its modest capability upgrade program.
The country was so powerful under the administration of the late-dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos that when it declared ownership of the Pag-asa Island, not a word of protest was heard from China. In fact, Scarborough Shoal, which is now under the de-facto control of Beijing, used to be only a target range for the Philippine military.
Indonesia rolls
THE years between 2010 and 2014 were considered a “golden period” for military spending in Southeast Asia as it showed a steady increase in military expenditures.
The CSIS said the Asean spent a total of $38.2 billion on defense in 2014. For the years 2013 and 2014, the biggest increase in defense spending was registered by Brunei with 28.2 percent, followed by Cambodia and Vietnam at 14.4 percent and 14.1 percent, respectively.
But overall, and from 2010 up to 2014, Vietnam led the pack of the biggest defense spenders with 59.1 percent, although all Asean countries posted increases in their defense budgets. Hanoi was followed by Indonesia at 50.6 percent.
Vietnam, a claimant in the South China Sea, is giving much emphasis to the capability of its military with the end goal of having a powerful and independent armed forces as it sticks to the three “No’s”. The latter refer to “No to foreign military bases”, “No to military alliance” and “No to military reliance with other countries”.
The CSIS said the average military expenditure in Southeast Asia as a percentage of GDP in 2014 was at 2.2 percent, ranging from 0.8 percent (Indonesia) to 4.3 percent (Myanmar). The American think tank said Indonesia has posted the largest increase in military spending from 2001 up to 2014 in Southeast Asia, with disbursements spiking from under $1 billion to over $7 billion.
Thai funds
THE Washington, D.C.-headquartered group noted that the sharpest increase occurred after former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono came into office in October 2004, wherein Jakarta’s military spending rose 290 percent in between 2005 and 2013. The spending, however, decreased by nearly 5 percent in 2013 and 2014.
“In 2014 Indonesia accounted for 18 percent of all of Asean defense spending,” a CSIS report said. “Military spending accounted for 4.1 percent of total government spending in 2014, less than half of the regional average of
8.8 percent.”
The center founded in 1962 by Admiral Arleigh Burke added that Indonesian defense spending as a percentage of GDP was the lowest in the region at 0.8 percent, “well below the average of 2.2 percent.”
However, the CSIS noted that the Indonesian parliament has announced a plan to increase Indonesia’s defense spending to $15 billion by 2020, which is twice its 2015 level.
Meanwhile, Thailand occupied the list of having the third-highest defense budget in Southeast Asia in 2014, with the amount pegged at $5.73 billion, representing a 15.5- percent increase in defense spending between 2010 and 2014.
The CSIS said in April 2015, the Thai government proposed a $6.3- billion defense budget for 2016, or about 8 percent of the country’s total state expenditures.
In January this year Jane’s by IHS Markit Ltd. reported that Thailand’s military government has agreed to appropriate $383 million to support its Navy’s plan to acquire the first of its three S26T submarines from China.
To be continued
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/phl-explores-paths-to-modern-defense-2/
In Photo: This file photo shows members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in a parade at the AFP Headquarters in Quezon City. It was during the martial law years when the AFP became the object of envy not only by its Asean neighbors, but even by the top militaries in Asia because of its advanced assets and equipment, making the Philippines an Asian military power.
Part Two
THE previous administration has endowed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with more than P65 billion worth of equipment, and allowed the AFP to make a giant leap from its decrepit and vintage assets. However, the country’s modernization spending still pales in comparison with its military neighbors in Southeast Asia.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri) and the United States-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), while the military has been given its biggest budget yet during the past administration, the AFP still sits near the bottom in terms of acquisition when compared with the other Asean members.
It even occupied the last spot when compared with regional military powerhouse, such as China, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.
According to an earlier assessment of the CSIS, the country’s defense spending in 2014—the year that the Department of National Defense was on a procurement binge for the military—was at $3.3 billion. This amount was only slightly higher by 2 percent from 2013.
The year 2014 was historic for the military, as it was during this period when the AFP got hold of the biggest modernization funds in its entire history.
The country’s defense spending that year represented about 9 percent of the total defense spending in the region. The amount also represented about 1.1 percent of the country’s GDP and about 6 percent of the total government spending. However, this was still below the Asean average of 8.8 percent.
The CSIS, a think tank, said that between 2010 and 2014, Manila’s defense spending skyrocketed by about 35 percent, which was near the regional average of 37.6 percent during that period.
Stale spending
FROM the time of the administration of Fidel V. Ramos up to the term of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, modernization spending was stale. Even the paltry funds were used for the repair of the military’s World War II vintage assets, instead of being spent for acquisition, as originally earmarked.
The failure, or more appropriately the neglect of the three previous administrations—including the aborted term of former actor and President Joseph E. Estrada—to allocate funds and pursue the modernization of the military as mandated by law, led to the degeneration of the AFP as the least developed among the militaries in the region.
It was different during the martial law years, when the AFP was the object of envy not only by its Asean neighbors, but even by the top militaries in Asia because of its advanced assets and equipment, making it an Asian military power.
The Philippines even beat Japan by becoming the first country outside the US at that time to have F-5 fighter planes. Incidentally, it is now Tokyo that is among the list of countries helping Manila in its modest capability upgrade program.
The country was so powerful under the administration of the late-dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos that when it declared ownership of the Pag-asa Island, not a word of protest was heard from China. In fact, Scarborough Shoal, which is now under the de-facto control of Beijing, used to be only a target range for the Philippine military.
Indonesia rolls
THE years between 2010 and 2014 were considered a “golden period” for military spending in Southeast Asia as it showed a steady increase in military expenditures.
The CSIS said the Asean spent a total of $38.2 billion on defense in 2014. For the years 2013 and 2014, the biggest increase in defense spending was registered by Brunei with 28.2 percent, followed by Cambodia and Vietnam at 14.4 percent and 14.1 percent, respectively.
But overall, and from 2010 up to 2014, Vietnam led the pack of the biggest defense spenders with 59.1 percent, although all Asean countries posted increases in their defense budgets. Hanoi was followed by Indonesia at 50.6 percent.
Vietnam, a claimant in the South China Sea, is giving much emphasis to the capability of its military with the end goal of having a powerful and independent armed forces as it sticks to the three “No’s”. The latter refer to “No to foreign military bases”, “No to military alliance” and “No to military reliance with other countries”.
The CSIS said the average military expenditure in Southeast Asia as a percentage of GDP in 2014 was at 2.2 percent, ranging from 0.8 percent (Indonesia) to 4.3 percent (Myanmar). The American think tank said Indonesia has posted the largest increase in military spending from 2001 up to 2014 in Southeast Asia, with disbursements spiking from under $1 billion to over $7 billion.
Thai funds
THE Washington, D.C.-headquartered group noted that the sharpest increase occurred after former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono came into office in October 2004, wherein Jakarta’s military spending rose 290 percent in between 2005 and 2013. The spending, however, decreased by nearly 5 percent in 2013 and 2014.
“In 2014 Indonesia accounted for 18 percent of all of Asean defense spending,” a CSIS report said. “Military spending accounted for 4.1 percent of total government spending in 2014, less than half of the regional average of
8.8 percent.”
The center founded in 1962 by Admiral Arleigh Burke added that Indonesian defense spending as a percentage of GDP was the lowest in the region at 0.8 percent, “well below the average of 2.2 percent.”
However, the CSIS noted that the Indonesian parliament has announced a plan to increase Indonesia’s defense spending to $15 billion by 2020, which is twice its 2015 level.
Meanwhile, Thailand occupied the list of having the third-highest defense budget in Southeast Asia in 2014, with the amount pegged at $5.73 billion, representing a 15.5- percent increase in defense spending between 2010 and 2014.
The CSIS said in April 2015, the Thai government proposed a $6.3- billion defense budget for 2016, or about 8 percent of the country’s total state expenditures.
In January this year Jane’s by IHS Markit Ltd. reported that Thailand’s military government has agreed to appropriate $383 million to support its Navy’s plan to acquire the first of its three S26T submarines from China.
To be continued
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/phl-explores-paths-to-modern-defense-2/