AFP preparing for change in top military command

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): AFP preparing for change in top military command



 AFP chief General Eduardo Año PHOTO BY JOSEPH VIDAL

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is preparing for the early retirement of AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año next month before he formally takes over as secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the military said on Thursday.

Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP public affairs chief, said the military’s board of generals was deliberating on Año’s possible replacement while the AFP prepared for a change of command ceremony.

“It was Gen. Año who confided that he was going on early retirement, specifically by next month,” Arevalo said.

He added that all three-star generals of the AFP were “strong contenders” for Año’s post.

“What I can assure you is that all our senior commanders, area commanders and major service commanders are contenders … Our senior commanders are competent, experienced and molded,” he said.

When asked about reports that Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, head of the military’s Eastern Mindanao Command, might get the post, Arevalo said: “Well, you asked earlier who are the contenders and he is one of the contenders.”
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/897738/afp-preparing-for-change-in-top-military-command

DVIDS: Balikatan service members visit school, support children

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (May 17): Balikatan service members visit school, support children



A child from a Vacation Bible School climbs on top of U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Patrick Muniz's shoulders during a community relations event at the Evangelical Church for Balikatan 2017 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Philippines, May 17, 2017.Visiting the school provided service members the chance to formulate a rapport with children, fostering the friendship between the U.S. and the Philippines. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism and other combined military operations. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Chris McCullough)

U.S. Sailors and Marines on hand for Exercise Balikatan 2017 visited children at a Vacation Bible School being held at the Camp Aguinaldo Evangelical Chapel in Quezon City, Philippines, as part of a community relations event, May 17, 2017.

Visiting the school provided service members the chance to formulate a rapport with children, fostering the friendship between the U.S. and the Philippines.

"The kids just love hanging on them, getting piggyback rides, and things of that nature.," said U.S. Navy Chaplain (Cmdr.) Wade A. Bailey, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Battalion. "It's just an instant bond. It's amazing. If you're having a bad hair day, or having a pity party, you come do something like this and you'll leave feeling like a million bucks. Most Marines and Sailors walk away from something like this feeling like they got more of a blessing than I was a blessing."

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chaplain (Lt. Col.) George Pabalinas, assistant chaplain of headquarters service command, said these visits are a big contribution to the morale and welfare of the children in Quezon City.

"This is the first time that we have this ministry for the kids – we call it Vacation Bible School," said Pabalinas. "Many of these kids come from outside the camp; they are less fortunate children. So we bring them inside [Camp Aguinaldo] for them to have fellowship, which the Marines are part of."

U.S. Marine Sgt. Gamar Rosadosanceez said he was there because his family raised him in the church environment.

Being a father really impacts his experience with Vacation Bible School.

"I have two kids," said Rosadosanceez, "and seeing the smiles on the kids faces really makes my day, so that's why I do it."

More importantly, he believes in being part of a community event that has such a positive impact on the children, regardless of their nationality.

"What I've taken away from this is, no matter what country you're from, you will always have kids that want to be happy," explained Rosadosanceez. "Doing this as a service, and helping them be happy, shows me there's still goodness in the world and that makes it all worth it."

Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/234401/balikatan-service-members-visit-school-support-children

DVIDS: Balikatan: Media visit HADR command post

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (May 17): Balikatan: Media visit HADR command post



Media personnel gather information about the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) command post exercise (CPX) at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, May 17, 2017. HADR CPX training allows the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military to partner with international relief organizations to provide a faster and more effective responses to natural disasters. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions including humanitarian and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Maria A. Garza)

Military and civilian personnel welcomed members of the media to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Command and General Staff College to experience a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief command post exercise in support of Balikatan 2017, May 17.

The exercise includes representatives from the AFP, U.S. military, Australian Defence Force and Japan Self-Defense Forces, as well as civil organizations such as the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense and the U.S. Agency for International Development.

The CPX is a simulation. It involves commanders making decisions and choices with simulated staffs and forces to understand and rehearse the vital flow of information and communications within and between headquarters. The exercise focuses on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and counterterrorism to help both services protect public safety and health after a natural or man-made calamity.

“We have this exercise every year, and it helps us respond faster and more effectively in the case of real-world scenario, like super typhoons, earthquakes, volcanoes, those types of natural disasters,” said U.S. Marine Maj. Andrew Merz, co-exercise control group director from III Marine Expeditionary Force. “We want to be able to more effectively respond, which in the end benefits Philippine citizens in the case of a large scale natural disaster.”

Media members attending noted the importance of confronting and working to mitigate challenges common to the region.

“So much interest was generated by the public, and we in the newsroom wanted to get a picture of how it will be conducted,” said David Y. Santos, senior correspondent with CNN Philippines. “We understand the need for HADR on this year’s exercise, and we do appreciate that.”

Natural disasters are unpredictable, and HADR CPX training allows service members and civilians alike to improve command and control of operations before an actual emergency or disaster.

“We have been experiencing a lot of earthquakes lately, like the 7.2 [magnitude earthquake] in Mindanao,” said Eunice Rean Samonte, reporter for Peoples Television Network. “So it is really great to see all these countries working together and helping each other out.

Samonte pointed out that the CPX is one of several HADR events as a part of Balikatan.

“I was on Calayan Island yesterday, and I saw these people working together,” she said. “They are really prepared.”

The AFP wants to get the message out about the mutually beneficial value of partnership between nations during Balikatan 33-2017.

“We would like to promote the activity in part of enhancing our alliances with other nations, specifically our long trusted allies, the U.S., Japan and Australia,” said Philippine Lt. Col. Michael Logico, co-exercise control group director.

Balikatan allows partner forces and civilian aid agencies to plan, coordinate and conduct operations across the range of military capabilities, including humanitarian assistance/disaster relief.

“It helps the military understand that they are just one piece in a larger puzzle when you are conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations,” Merz said. “It was a great opportunity for the military training audiences to interact with those other government agencies, and humanitarians, who are actually here to support this type of scenario.”

After seeing the combined efforts of the exercise participants, Santos noted why the media wanted to be there to tell the story.

“This is important to us,” he said. “We see how we as a nation will be responding in future disasters. It is good, we want to save lives and rebuild communities.”

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/234391/balikatan-media-visit-hadr-command-post

DVIDS: Balikatan participants finish engineering projects, conduct dedication ceremonies

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (May 17): Balikatan participants finish engineering projects, conduct dedication ceremonies

Balikatan 2017 leaders from the U.S. military, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and local barangay offices conducted dedication ceremonies for engineering civic assistance projects for Surok, Don Carlos and Margen Elementary Schools in Eastern Samar and Ormoc City.

After Philippine and U.S. service members saluted each other's national anthems, the ceremony continued with blessing ceremonies, ribbon cuttings, speeches and presentations of dedication plaques in memory of participating military engineer units.

Military leaders thanked participants for their cooperation and assistance in successfully completing the classroom construction projects.

"I would like to thank all the personnel present for showing U.S. service members hospitality," said U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Ryan Scott, commanding officer, Combined Joint Civil-Military Operations Task Force. "Balikatan gives us an opportunity to do meaningful work, to learn from each other, and to build personal relationships."

Working shoulder-to-shoulder, Philippine, U.S. and Australian engineers built up relationship as well as new classrooms.

"The project itself is beneficial for Filipinos because it will be forever there to be used by our stakeholders, the community and the students," said Philippine Army Corps of Engineers Capt. Armando Moncayo, Jr. "It will help improve the future of our country and better communities because of the better education offered to them."

Balikatan engineers worked diligently with their construction projects and the community.
"We were glad that they were able to build it successfully, even through the rain," said Virginia Lagramada, principal, Surok Elementary School.

The new buildings serve not only as classrooms, but as venues for other purposes as well.

"The [building, water storage, and repaired stage], and the school stage will be used monthly for celebrations and curricular activities," Lagramada said. "The new multipurpose building can serve as a library, a classroom and even as a shelter in case of a natural disaster."

The teaching staff was also very grateful for all the things the participants had done for the school, she added.

With the classrooms completed, Scott hopes the partnerships established over the construction work continue for the benefit of Philippine communities.

"We know that when a typhoon comes through the area, much work will be needed to recover," Scott said. "It will also be a time when we are in need of friends to help shoulder the load, and that’s what brings us here today to share knowledge and expertise through exercise Balikatan."

Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/234123/balikatan-participants-finish-engineering-projects-conduct-dedication-ceremonies

DVIDS: Balikatan service members visit school, support children

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (May 18): Balikatan service members visit school, support children



A child from a Vacation Bible School climbs on top of U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Patrick Muniz's shoulders during a community relations event at the Evangelical Church for Balikatan 2017 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Philippines, May 17, 2017.Visiting the school provided service members the chance to formulate a rapport with children, fostering the friendship between the U.S. and the Philippines. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism and other combined military operations. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Chris McCullough)

U.S. Sailors and Marines on hand for Exercise Balikatan 2017 visited children at a Vacation Bible School being held at the Camp Aguinaldo Evangelical Chapel in Quezon City, Philippines, as part of a community relations event, May 17, 2017.

Visiting the school provided service members the chance to formulate a rapport with children, fostering the friendship between the U.S. and the Philippines.

"The kids just love hanging on them, getting piggyback rides, and things of that nature.," said U.S. Navy Chaplain (Cmdr.) Wade A. Bailey, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Battalion. "It's just an instant bond. It's amazing. If you're having a bad hair day, or having a pity party, you come do something like this and you'll leave feeling like a million bucks. Most Marines and Sailors walk away from something like this feeling like they got more of a blessing than I was a blessing."

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chaplain (Lt. Col.) George Pabalinas, assistant chaplain of headquarters service command, said these visits are a big contribution to the morale and welfare of the children in Quezon City.

"This is the first time that we have this ministry for the kids – we call it Vacation Bible School," said Pabalinas. "Many of these kids come from outside the camp; they are less fortunate children. So we bring them inside [Camp Aguinaldo] for them to have fellowship, which the Marines are part of."

U.S. Marine Sgt. Gamar Rosadosanceez said he was there because his family raised him in the church environment.

Being a father really impacts his experience with Vacation Bible School.

"I have two kids," said Rosadosanceez, "and seeing the smiles on the kids faces really makes my day, so that's why I do it."

More importantly, he believes in being part of a community event that has such a positive impact on the children, regardless of their nationality.

"What I've taken away from this is, no matter what country you're from, you will always have kids that want to be happy," explained Rosadosanceez. "Doing this as a service, and helping them be happy, shows me there's still goodness in the world and that makes it all worth it."

Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/234401/balikatan-service-members-visit-school-support-children

DVIDS: Closing ceremony at Fort Magsaysay for Balikatan 2017

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (May 18): Closing ceremony at Fort Magsaysay for Balikatan 2017



Philippine and U.S. military leaders stand during the closing ceremony of Balikatan 2017 at Fort Magsaysay in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, May 18, 2017. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions including humanitarian and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Casbarro)

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Santa Rosa – Philippine Army Col. Laurence E. Mina, deputy assistance chief of staff, Training and Education Staff, and U.S. Army Lt. Col. Teddy Kleisner, commander, 1st Battalion 23rd Infantry Regiment, congratulated Philippine and U.S. forces on the completion of their humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training during a closing ceremony May 18 held at Fort Magsaysay.

As part of the relief efforts during the training, the Philippine and U.S. forces performed search and rescue missions, disaster relief simulations, and first responder training by performing a simulated downed pilot scenario in conjunction with a mass casualty evacuation.

"We’re grateful that exercise Balikatan happened for us," Kleinser said. He also added that the exercise focused on important security issues for both the Philippines and the United States.

Kleinser thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their hard work and training, making Balikatan a success.

Along with the HADR missions, the combined forces of the Philippines and the United States still managed to perform counterterrorism training, jungle survival training, and community relations work to help build classrooms and restore schools.

With the joint efforts of the U.S Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines counterparts, the 33rd annual, bilateral Balikatan exercise promoted interoperability and helped maintain a strong partnership, bringing both countries together and promoting the spirit of the Balikatan exercise.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/234407/closing-ceremony-fort-magsaysay-balikatan-2017

WATCH: Balikatan 2017 comes to an end

From Rappler (May 19): WATCH: Balikatan 2017 comes to an end



The Balikatan exercises almost didn't happen after President Duterte threatened to cancel it, but he was convinced to allow it

The Philippine and US militaries on Friday, May 19, formally closed the 2017 Balikatan Exercises, an annual activity between two longtime treaty allies bound to defend the other if it sovereignty is threatened.

Bea Cupin files this video blog.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/170362-balikatan-exercises-2017-end

PH defense officials turn to fables in Balikatan closing

From Rappler (May 20): PH defense officials turn to fables in Balikatan closing

Can two long-time allies and another friendly force beat two seemingly allied superpowers?

BALIKATAN CLOSING. Top American and Philippine officials, including the US Ambassador and the Philippine defense chief, pose at the Balikatan Closing Ceremony. Photo by Lito Boras/Rappler

During a program where military and civilian officials from both the United States and the Philippines repeatedly emphasized the importance of cooperation and friendship between the two long-time defense treaty allies, Philippine top defense officials turned to a beloved fable to better illustrate why it’s ideal for the two countries to be allies.

 

Outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Eduardo Año, speaking during the closing ceremonies of the Balikatan 2017 on Friday, May 19, likened the relationship of the two countries and militaries to that the tortoise and the hare in the Aesop Fable.

But in Año’s version, 3 more races happen.

In the second, the hare makes no stops and wins the race. In third, the tortoise introduces a water obstacle which the hare is unable to cross. During the fourth race, the two combine forces to finish the race the fastest and break the course record.

“Let us work together to enable us to provide our nations an environment of peace and security where we can all mutually prosper. May our diversity be our strength while we continue to keep our partnership strong and be always united in serving our country and our people,” added Año, who will soon be leaving the military ahead of his scheduled retirement to be the next interior secretary.

But Año’s boss, Defense chief Delfin Lorenza, took the metaphor further.

“There's a fifth race, actually,” said Lorenzana during his speech to close the event.

“This time, there were 3 of them – the hare, the turtle and the kangaroo. They were racing against the bear and the dragon. Of course, the 3 won. End of the story,” added the defense chief and former soldier, to the wild applause of soldiers – Filipino, American, Australian, and Japanese – in the audience.

It was a barely veiled quip amid the Philippines’ apparent shift in foreign policy under President Rodrigo Duterte.

The former city mayor, who has long expressed a disdain for the United States, wants to forge an “independent foreign policy” that would see the country lessen its ties to America while improving relations with China and Russia.

The bear is a popular symbol for Russia while the dragon is also a symbol for China.

This year’s Balikatan almost didn’t push through, until Duterte was convinced by defense advisers to let it happen. It’s been scaled down, however.

Unlike in previous years, this year’s Balikatan does not include drills that would prepare Filipinos and American troops for an invasion of the Philippines by another country – a potentially touchy event given Duterte’s shift to China and an ongoing dispute over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

“Let us continue this yearly, not just to meet our obligation under the Mutual Defense Treaty but also to strengthen the bond of friendship as well as our friendly relations with other nations,” added Lorenzana.

As the Balikatan came to a close, the Palace said a defense deal between the Philippines and Russia will be signed when Duterte visits Moscow and St Petersburg at the end of May 2017.

Just last week, Duterte was in China to attend a trade forum.

 

http://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/inside-track/170344-balikatan-lorenzana-us-philippines-russia-china

IPs fear ‘all-out war’ vs minorities with generals in Duterte’s cabinet

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (May 19): IPs fear ‘all-out war’ vs minorities with generals in Duterte’s cabinet

IPs fear ‘all-out war’ vs minorities with generals in Duterte’s cabinet



Activists protest outside the office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday, May 19, 2017. (Photo by Karapatan)
An organization of Moro and indigenous peoples expressed fear that the appointment of former Army generals in cabinet positions will “intensify” attacks in their communities.

“The appointment of generals in cabinet positions is an intensification of the AFP’s all-out war against national minorities. Since July 2016, 23 national minorities have been killed by state security forces. Ten were killed when the AFP declared an all out-war policy against the New People’s Army in February 4,” said Datu Jerome Succor Aba, co-chair of Sandugo Movement of Moro and Indigenous Peoples for Self-Determination in a statement following Environmental and human rights activists held protest actions at the gates of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Former Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Chief of Staff Roy Cimatu was appointed as the new DENR chief and current AFP Chief General Eduardo Año will take over the DILG in June.
Ret. Gen. Roy Cimatu as Environment Secretary will bring more chaos in our ancestral lands and territories to defend large scale mining and big business interests. Gen. Cimatu has a track record of using the armed forces to guard big businesses called ‘investment defense forces,’” Aba said.

Meanwhile, Aba said Año “will definitely ensure that the local government infrastructure will be fully utilized for the AFP’s counter-insurgency and all-out war.”

“This includes the strengthening of barangay intelligence networks (BIN) especially in struggling indigenous peoples’ communities and tag community leaders as rebels. BIN will only break the unity of villages in fighting land grabbing and plunder of our resources,” he added.

Aba said more than 40,000 Moro people and 14,000 indigenous people, mostly children, have forcibly evacuated due to the all-out war against armed Moro groups and communists.

Human rights group Karapatan also scored what they described as the “militarization of the civilian bureaucracy.”

“The rise of military generals in key government positions is a preview of a leadership strongly influenced by rightist-militarists who were at the forefront of implementing fascist policies such as the US-driven counter-insurgency programs. Lest we forget, these generals have a bloody record of violations and crimes against the Filipino people,” Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay said

“How can pro-people policies be implemented if those appointed in key government posts have been proven to be rights violators themselves?” she said.

http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/ips-fear-all-out-war-vs-minorities-with-generals-in-dutertes-cabinet/

Cordillera remains peaceful despite isolated NPA attacks

From the Sun Star-Baguio (May 19): Cordillera remains peaceful despite isolated NPA attacks

CORDILLERA remains peaceful through the years with only 65 New People’s Army (NPA) related attacks recorded from 2012 up to the first three months of 2017.

Police Superintendent Laureano Alexis Mariñas, of the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of the Police Regional Office Cordillera said, from the 65 total incidents, there were five cases reported from January to May this year.

Marinas said Kalinga has the highest NPA related incidents with 22, followed by Abra with 18, 11 in Ifugao, eight in Mountain Province, and three each in Apayao and Benguet while Baguio City has recorded zero incidents.

During the Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Council meeting Marinas said 21 incidents were reported in 2012 and 2013, 13 in 2014, 14 in 2015 and 11 in 2016. Of the total cases, 17 are already filed in the Prosecutors Office, 34 are currently heard by the different courts and 14 are still under investigation.

Earlier this year, two trucks of Philex Mining Corporation were torched by alleged NPA rebels leading to the arrest of three individuals.

Rebels also ambushed an entourage of Abra Police lead by former provincial director Senior Superintendent Alexander Tagum. Police reports reveal one platoon led by Tagum, and Superintendent Allen Bauding was ambushed by an undetermined number of communist rebels at Malanas bridge, Barangay Poblacion, Malibcong.

Wounded during the ambush are Police Officer 2 (PO2) Jessie Trinidad, PO1 Marlon dela Paz, PO1 Gerome Baldos, PO1 Kennon Sanggoy, and PO1 Von Harold Layao.

The men were wounded when a suspected improvised explosive device exploded followed by bursts of gun fire.

 Marinas added the police are currently conducting thorough investigation following an alleged robbery and disarming of PNP personnel in Buguias, Benguet.

Rebels are also being tagged in the killing of Retired Colonel Oscar Ibarra on February 14, 2017 at Liwon, Amduntog, Asipulo, Ifugao while biking; and the burning of a Volvo Backhoe owned by Randy Balbino Construction Company and Royal Seabees Construction in the morning of March 31 at Bakwit, Allaguia, Pinukpuk, Kalinga.

 http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2017/05/19/cordillera-remains-peaceful-despite-isolated-npa-attacks-542832

No peace until rebels ‘stop killing’ – Duterte

From InterAksyon (May 20): No peace until rebels ‘stop killing’ – Duterte


 (Image from https://www.philippinerevolution.info/)

President Rodrigo Duterte again warned that no agreement with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front can be signed if the rebels continue killing soldiers despite peace negotiations.

President Duterte admitted telling Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, the government chief negotiator to talks with the communists, to end the almost 50-year insurgency or face 50 more years of fighting.

The government and NDFP NDF panels are set to meet in Noordwijk in the Netherlands for the fifth round of talks on May 27 to June 1, during which they are expected to tackle the terms of a bilateral ceasefire and the socioeconomic reform agenda.

“I’m pissed off already because they have been attacking my — ‘my’ because I’m the commander-in-chief, so my — soldiers and my policemen,” he said during Friday’s opening of the four-day 25th Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines Defense and Sporting Arms Show at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City.

Duterte stressed he has to protect soldiers because he is the commander-in-chief.

And while he had been friendly to the NPA, he said there have been irreconcilable differences since he became president.

“Ngayon na presidente ako, siyempre iba na ang papel ko … (Now that I am President, of course, I have a different role). So unless they really stop killing my soldiers and policemen, there will be no peace in this land,” he said.

He said he was first to declare a unilateral ceasefire but accused the rebels of disrespecting this and killing soldiers.

“I am a president for peace. I am not a wartime president. My job is to bring peace to my country,” he stressed.

http://www.interaksyon.com/no-peace-until-rebels-stop-killing-duterte/

Military reactivates battalions in Negros Island

From the Cebu Daily News (May 19): Military reactivates battalions in Negros Island

THE military has activated two geographical battalions in the Negros Island Region following intelligence reports of the arrival of around 20 armed men in Barangay Basak, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Col. Medel Aguilar, assistant chief of the Unified Command Staff for Civil Military Operations of the Central Command (Centcom) said their tactical unit is tracking the armed men, whom they believe are still in the area, hiding in the hinterlands and avoiding government troopers.

“Sinasabi doon pa rin sa lugar, but they want to avoid our troops,” he said.

The military believes the armed men are members of the New People’s Army (NPA), based on their composition and firearms used.

“Even the route na ginamit nila (that they used),” said Aguilar.

“Based sa mga historical accounts, because when you talk about intelligence you don’t look at the present (or) available information today. You also have to look back historical account. By historical account, by the composition of the group and the fire arms nakita sa kanilang grupo they are probably NPA force,” Aguilar added.

Aguilar said that the armed men were carrying M16 and AK-47 fire arms with them.

They are, however, still determining where they came from.

Last May 17, around 20 armed men were reported to have landed on board two pump boats in Barangay Basak, Guihulngan City.

At the time the police asked for assistance from the military to verify the reports, the military could not send any troops as they had no quick response team.

Now, however, the armed forces assured the public that they can immediately verify these reports with the reactivated battalions of (NIR).

“We can monitor them. We have now two newly activated geographical battalion in Negros Island,” Aguilar said.
https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/133575/military-reactivates-battalions-negros-island

Army’s Light Reaction Regiment celebrate 17 years of service

From Update Philippines (May 19): Army’s Light Reaction Regiment celebrate 17 years of service



The Light Reaction Regiment celebrated its 17th anniversary on May 17, 2017 at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. The event was attended by National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
The Light Reaction Regiment is operating under the Special Operations Command (SOCOM) of the Philippine Army. In his active military service, Secretary Lorenzana served as SOCOM’s commanding general.

During the event Lorenzana inspected the refurbished firearms turned over by the Government Arsenal. A book launch was also held as part of Light Reaction Regiment 17th Founding Anniversary celebration


DND photo

Light Reaction Regiment is the lead counter-terrorist unit of the Philippine Army.


DND photo

Lorenzana also led the groundbreaking of the AFP’s Counter-Terrorism Training Facility.

SOCOM is responsible for planning, conducting, and supporting special operations for the Philippine Army. Aside from Light Reaction Regiment, SOCOM also has Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) and First Scout Ranger Regiment as sub-commands.

http://www.update.ph/2017/05/armys-light-reaction-regiment-celebrate-17-years-of-service/17605

Army troops tracking down armed men in Guihulngan

From Visayan Daily Star (May 19): Army troops tracking down armed men in Guihulngan

Army troops of the 79th Infantry Battalion are tracking down 20 armed persons, including a woman, reported to have arrived in Guihulngan City in northern Negros Oriental Wednesday afternoon.

The unidentified armed group arrived in Guihulngan City on the same day that the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, headed by Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, had activated the 600-strong 2nd Negros Island Geographical Battalion in Negros Oriental at ceremonies held in Dumaguete City.

Lt. Col. Roderick Garcia, 79th IB commander, in an interview yesterday said a civilian first reported to the police in Guihulngan City the sighting of the armed group he believes are “Communist terrorists”.

Garcia said he immediately deployed his troops to validate the report and they are now conducting operations in the hinterlands of Guihulngan.

A police report yesterday also corroborated the Army report that at around 3:10 p.m. Wednesday, a group of about 20 armed people, wearing camouflage fatigues, was sighted in SitioMatu-og, Barangay Basak in Guihulngan City.

The group,was on board two pumpboats that docked at the shoreline of Matu-og, the police report from the Negros Oriental Philippine National Police Provincial Office said.

The report also said that the group walked through the national highway to the hinterlands of Barangay Binobohan and Barangay Mani-akinGuihulngan, a city about 116.3 kilometers north of Dumaguete, and were allegedly carrying assorted high-powered firearms like a carbine, M-16 rifles and a machine gun.

The police report further said the group is believed to launch tactical offensives against government troops, vital installations and disrupt the coming fiesta celebration of Guihulngan City on May 25 and the tentatively scheduled Federalism Summit there.

Garcia said he strongly believes those who arrived in Guihulngan were Communist terrorists, and not the Abu Sayyaf.

He also said Garcia, the lone female in the group, who must be an “amazon” or lady-fighter, was speaking in the Visayan dialect. He said they could be remnants of the NPA's South Eastern Front operating in southern Negros Oriental, specifically in Sta. Catalina town.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/19/negor1.htm

China threatens war over oil in West PH Sea – Duterte

From InterAksyon (May 19): China threatens war over oil in West PH Sea – Duterte



Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte in Beijing. REUTERS/Etienne Oliveau/Pool

President Rodrigo Duterte disclosed on Friday that his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping had warned him there would be war if Manila tried to enforce an arbitration ruling and drill for oil in a disputed part of the South China Sea.

In remarks that could infuriate China, Duterte hit back at domestic critics who said he has gone soft on Beijing by refusing to push it to comply with an award last year by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which ruled largely in favor of the Philippines.

Duterte said he discussed it with Xi when the two met in Beijing on Monday, and got a firm, but friendly warning.

“We intend to drill oil there, if it’s yours, well, that’s your view, but my view is, I can drill the oil, if there is some inside the bowels of the earth, because it is ours,” Duterte said in a speech, recalling his conversation with Xi.

“His response to me, ‘we’re friends, we don’t want to quarrel with you, we want to maintain the presence of warm relationship, but if you force the issue, we’ll go to war.”

Duterte has long expressed his admiration for Xi and said he would raise the arbitration ruling with him eventually, but needed first to strengthen relations between the two countries, which the Philippines is hoping will yield billions of dollars in Chinese loans and infrastructure investments.

The Hague award clarifies Philippine sovereign rights in its 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone to access offshore oil and gas fields, including the Reed Bank, 85 nautical miles off its coast.

It also invalidated China’s nine-dash line claim on its maps denoting sovereignty over most of the South China Sea.

Duterte has a reputation for his candid, at times incendiary, remarks and his office typically backpedals on his behalf and blames the media for distorting his most controversial comments.

Duterte recalled the same story about his discussion with Xi on oil exploration in a recorded television show aired moments after the speech.

He said Xi told him “do not touch it”.

He said Xi had promised that the arbitration ruling would be discussed in future, but not now.

Duterte said China did not want to bring up the arbitral ruling at a time when other claimant countries, like Vietnam, might also decide to file cases against it at the arbitration tribunal.

It was not the first time the firebrand leader has publicly discussed the content of private meetings with other world leaders.

His remarks came the same day that China and the Philippines held their first session in a two-way consultation process on the South China Sea.

They exchanged views on “the importance of appropriately handling concerns, incidents and disputes involving the South China Sea”, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement that gave few details.

http://www.interaksyon.com/duterte-discloses-that-chinas-xi-threatened-war-if-philippines-drills-for-oil/

NPA seizes militiaman in Tandag

From MindaNews (May 19): NPA seizes militiaman in Tandag

New People’s Army (NPA) rebels abducted on Thursday a member of the Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) at his home in Tandag City.

The Army identified the Cafgu member as Jeremias E. Estrada, of Purok Lansones, Barangay San Agustin Norte, Tandag City, the capital of Surigao del Sur.

Estrada was assigned at Matho Patrol Base, in Barangay Matho, Cortes town in Surigao del Sur.

Reports said he was whisked away by heavily armed men inside his house at 7:00 a.m. Thursday.

Lt. Col. Randolph P. Rojas, commanding officer of 36th Infantry Battalion, said Estrada was off-duty and spending time with his family when four armed men with AK 47 rifles barged inside his house and hogtied him before taking him with them.

He said the armed men ignored pleas by his family not to take him away.

Rojas said the victim’s wife Berlinda appealed to the abductors not to harm her husband for he is the breadwinner of the family.

The Army official said Berlinda saw over 20 heavily armed men outside their residence.

“Mag-unsa nalang kami sa akong pamilya kun wala na ang akong bana nga maoy nagbuhi kanamo (What will happen to us if my husband who is earning for us will be gone)?” Roxas quoted her as saying.

Rojas has condemned the abduction. He said the incident showed the insincerity of the rebels to pursue the peace talks.

“This shows that their movement no longer adheres to principles and ideology as this is the handiwork of bandits. I call on everyone to help the military and police in order to give immediate justice to our friend,” he said in Cebuano in a press statement Friday.

“We have on-going rescue operations along with our police force,” said Capt. Al Anthony Pueblas of the 36th Infantry Battalion.

Ka Sandra, spokesperson of NPA Guerrilla Front 30 operating in Tandag and neighboring towns admitted on radio station dxBC-Butuan on Thursday afternoon, that they abducted Estrada.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/05/npa-seizes-militiaman-in-tandag/

Army soldier wounded in MILF clash in Sultan Kudarat

From the Mindanao Examiner (May 19): Army soldier wounded in MILF clash in Sultan Kudarat

A government soldier was wounded in a clash with suspected Moro Islamic Liberation Front members on Friday in southern Philippines.

The fighting erupted in Sultan Kudarat’s Isulan town where security forces were sent to serve a warrant for a rebel commander identified only as Dimas, alias Dragon, for his alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.

Dimas managed to escape the fighting which involved the police and soldiers against dozens of rebels that protected Dimas. The wounded soldier has been identified as Sergeant Davides Enadrio who was shot during the three hours of fierce battle in the remote village of Bual.

The army insisted that 10 rebels were killed, but it could not provide any proof of this, except for unconfirmed reports allegedly passed on by civilians to the military. There was no immediate statement from the MILF, but several of its commanders and members had been killed in anti-narcotics operations. The rebel group signed an interim peace deal with Manila in 2014.

Meanwhile in Cotabato City, two suspected drug pushers were killed and two others arrested in anti-narcotics operation also on Friday.

Chief Inspector Reynaldo Derlantein said Kamap Taup and Jun Dalandas were both slain after they engaged policemen in a firefight in Bagua 2 village. Those arrested have been identified as Danilo Lariosa Jr, and Freddie Bello.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/army-soldier-wounded-in-milf-clash-in-sultan-kudarat/

Pres. Duterte to disallow over-the-counter sale of bullets, ammos

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): Pres. Duterte to disallow over-the-counter sale of bullets, ammos

President Rodrigo Duterte will seek a revision of the firearms law in the Philippines to regulate strictly the sale of bullets, ammunition and firearms to ensure these do not end up in the hands of the enemies.

”I will no longer allow ‘yung mga tindahan (those stores) to sell bullets over the counter that cannot be done. Hindi tayo matatapos nito (We will not finish this [rebellion]). We’re just supplying ammunition to the enemy,” the President said during the 25th Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines (AFAD) Defense and Sporting Arms Show at the SMX Convention Center here Friday evening.

Referring to the New People’s Army (NPA), President Duterte said the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front can afford to buy bullets and ammunition because they are earning money from extortion or the revolutionary tax.

”Most of the plantation owners and the miners are really paying, ‘yan ang totoo talaga (that’s really the truth),” he said.

”They have the money. So we have to control. Kung may magpabili ka ng armas, make sure kung sino (If there are those who purchase ammunition, make sure who they are).”

It may be recalled that in 2013, then President Benigno Aquino III signed Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation, which recognizes the rights of qualified citizens to self-defense through the use of firearms under certain circumstances.

President Duterte said he wants stricter measures and that he would give incoming interior secretary Eduardo Año the guidance on the sale of ammunition and firearms to ensure that no firearm would ever land in the hands of an enemy of the state.

According to the President, 20 rounds of ammunition should be enough for a whole day of firing.

The AFAD, the governing body of gun sellers in the Philippines, held its national gun show outside of Metro Manila for the first time. The four-day Defense and Sporting Arms Show officially opened Friday and runs until May 22, with the participation of 40 gun sellers.

The President underscored the need to revise some of the rules, “not to make it hard for you to make money but to protect first and foremost the Republic of the Philippines”.

”We can do business but let us make sure that it does not fall into the hands of the enemies. Because it could then make it doubly hard for us, instead of investing on the life of one soldier in a fight, if you give them the firepower and the firearms. I would need about five soldiers to suppress one enemy. Mahirap ‘yan (That’s difficult),” he said.

He asked dealers to encourage their clients to register their firearms legally and rightfully as it would be difficult for them to buy bullets.

”Because, we know very well that some of those ammunition that are purchased are in the hands of the NPAs. As one way of controlling and even ‘yung high-powered, hindi na talaga dapat ipagbili ‘yan (those high-powered [firearms] should no longer be sold). No more,” President Duterte stressed.

He said even security guards of plantations and mining companies in the mountains can be issued only with shotguns.

"May problema tayo, eh (You see we have a problem). We are facing a rebellion and it’s a threat that is really very, very clear,” he said.

The President said the mining companies and banana plantations do hire security guards. “I sympathize with you guys, so let us try to sort out something here,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989441

Duterte warns vs signing any deal with Reds if killing continues

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): Duterte warns vs signing any deal with Reds if killing continues

President Rodrigo Duterte warned against signing any agreement with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) if rebels continue killing soldiers despite the peace negotiations.

President Duterte admitted telling government Chief Negotiator Silvestre Bello III to finish the 50-year insurgency or continue 50 more years of fighting.

The government’s negotiating team and the NDF panel are set to meet in Noordwijk in the Netherlands for the fifth round of talks on May 27 to June 1. Both panels are expected to tackle the terms of a bilateral ceasefire and the socioeconomic reform agenda, which have been the subject of meetings by reciprocal working groups.

“I’m pissed off already because they have been attacking my -- ‘my’ because I’m the Commander-in-Chief -- so my soldiers and my policemen,” he said during Friday’s opening of the four-day 25th Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines (AFAD) Defense and Sporting Arms Show at the SMX Convention Center here.

The Chief Executive said he has to protect his soldiers because he is the commander-in-chief.

He further noted that he was then friendly to the NPA but there have been irreconcilable differences when he became president.

”Ngayon na-Presidente ako, siyempre iba na ang papel ko, 'di away kami (Now that I am President, of course, I have a different role). So unless they really stop killing my soldiers and policemen, there will be no peace in this land,” the President said.

He recalled that he was first to declare a unilateral ceasefire but they disrespected it and killed soldiers.

President Duterte said he has been patient despite his sharp words.

“I am a President for peace. I am not a wartime President. My job is to bring peace to my country,” he stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989442

ASG bandit killed, 2 others surrender due to relentless military ops

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): ASG bandit killed, 2 others surrender due to relentless military ops

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member was killed while two others surrendered as focused military operations against the lawless group continue in the Western Mindanao Command's (WMC) area of operation.

At about 2 a.m. Friday, troopers of the 61st and 65th Marine Companies, Marine Special Operations Group and the 2nd Special Forces Battalion clashed with an ASG band formerly led by Alhabsy Misaya, who was earlier killed by government forces in Bangalaw Island, Banguingui, Sulu.

In the ensuing firefight, a bandit identified only as "Imbo" was killed. Also recovered by government forces were an M-16 automatic rifle, magazines and ammunition.

Aside from these, a sachet of shabu and five empty plastic sachets were also found in the suspect's pocket, along with a cellphone.

"Imbo is an ASG/KFRG member and trusted contact in Bangalaw island of the late Misaya," Joint Task Force Sulu commander, Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said.

"He is a KFR contact and facilitator in the island and a keeper of Misaya's firearms and pump boats used in kidnapping ventures."

No casualty was reported on the government's side while it is believed that the bandits suffered heavy losses from the encounter due to the bloodstains seen in the site.

Meanwhile, two ASG members under sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri surrendered to the Joint Task Force Basilan under Col. Juvymax Uy last Thursday.

Janatin Mudjaral Madjakin alias "Atin", 44, and Aldasid Madjakin alias "Alda", 19, surrendered to troops of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion in Camp Cordero, Campo Uno in Lamitan City, Basilan at 9:30 p.m.

The duo yielded an M16-A1 rifle and an M-79, following their surrender.

Uy said the pair decided to return to the folds of the law due to the relentless military operations against the ASG.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989443

LGUs should lead fight to end terrorism –DILG-ARMM official

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 19): LGUs should lead fight to end terrorism –DILG-ARMM official

Local governments should play major role in the combat against terror threats, an official of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said Wednesday.

“The LGUs must be at the forefront in the battle against terrorism,” said Secretary Noor Hafizullah “Kirby” Abdullah of DILG- ARMM, stressing the crucial role of local executives and Islamic scholars or the Ulama in the fight against criminal activities..

To further strengthen the fight against terrorism, Secretary Abdullah said  the 116 municipalities and two cities in the region will soon conduct a summit on terrorism and illegal drugs to prevent and combat the rising threat of terrorism and as well as to enhance the role of LGUs in promoting peace and security.

“In any place, if there is an absence of governance, the terrorists will provide the needs of the people. So the LGUs play a vital role in this battle because they are being mandated by our laws to protect their constituents against the act of terrorism including illegal drugs,” he said, emphasizing further that he localized summit would synchronize measures on how to curb criminality, terrorism and illegal drugs, which pose a challenge to the peace and security in the region.

“The summit will help confront terrorism and extremism at the municipal level. If the local government will not spearhead, will not be at the forefront in this battle, this terrorist activity will continue to go stronger and stronger and become uncontrollable,” he said.

Based on the report of DILG-ARMM, the decision to enlist the active involvement of LGUs in the relentless campaign following the threat against Ulamas who attended the 3-day Summit Against Terrorism held here recently by a terror group Dawla Islamiya, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State.

The three-day Ulama Summit Against Terrorism is an initial step of the ARMM government to enlist the support of Islamic scholars to combat terrorism.

Citing the importance of collaboration, the official reiterated the vital role of the Islamic scholars

“Basically the ISIS are using the religion of Islam as their point of recruitment. So the Ulama has a vital role in combating this act. Because these terrorists are somehow interpreting the Qu’ran in an extreme way, they are teaching hate, they are propagating hate when in fact the basis of Islam is peace so the role of Ulamas during the conduct of Friday prayer or in Madrasahs they will inculcate in the minds of the children, the illiterate on what is the true essence of Islam and that is peace,“ he said

Close coordination, mutual support, and cooperation according to Secretary Abdullah can help put an end to terrorism

“I can see that the LGUs in the region are very active in this fight in order to have peaceful and progressive communities. Liliit ang mundo ng mga terroristang grupo if they will see that everyone is helping one another to fight terror acts.” he added.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1661495175578/lgus-should-lead-fight-to-end-terrorism-dilg-armm-official

Government Peace Panel holds consultation workshop in Baguio City

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 19): Government Peace Panel holds consultation workshop in Baguio City

The Government Peace Panel held a two-day consultation workshop with officials and community leaders from the Cordillera region as part of the campaign of the Duterte Administration for lasting peace in the country.

Dubbed as the First Series of Regional Consultations on the Peace Talks between Government of the Philippines and Communist Party of the Philippines / New People’s Army / National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF): Consultative Workshop with the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) on the draft Agreements on the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) and Ceasefire, it was conducted at the Hotel Albergo in Baguio City last May 15 – 16.

Government Peace Panel Member Hernani Braganza said the activity was part of the government panel’s nationwide consultations with relevant stakeholders to collect inputs, test the validity of its positioning and encourage buy-ins for the on-going peace negotiations between the government and the communist group.

The consultation also aimed to solicit inputs from the local officials and community leaders of the Cordillera regarding concerns on the proposed joint ceasefire agreement with communist rebels.

Braganza explained that they have been looking for existing government mechanism where local and national government, national and regional government agencies, civil society organizations, including the church can participate in the process of peace building in this country through the RDC and RPOC in the different regions.

“We are your negotiators. What we want to discuss in the negotiating table with the NDF (National Democratic Front) is your position on issues affecting your communities. Now is the time for the Cordillerans to speak up and voice out your concerns with regard to the peace negotiation,” he said.

He said that the consultations will also be conducted in other regions in the coming days.

Outputs of the consultation-workshop will be included as inputs to the fifth round of formal peace negotiation with the NDF scheduled in The Netherlands from May 27 to June 1, 2017.

Braganza stressed “the Duterte Administration wants to end the armed conflict in country with negotiations, but we want to end the armed conflict with a more stable peace and a change in the country. “

In his welcome message, Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan, the Cordillera RDC and RPOC chairman, lauded the OPAPP for bringing the consultations to the Cordillera region whose people are known as peace keepers and advocates.

Domogan called on the members of the RDC and RPOC and other stakeholders to provide ideas that would be helpful to the government panel on the socio-economic reforms and the ceasefire particularly on the regional level. He also appealed to Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process to make sure that the activities of the government including the socio-economic reforms would benefit the rest of the Filipino citizenry and not only few rebels.

“It had been repeatedly said even in the RDC and RPOC that the activities of the government towards peace and development including the peace talks with the communists should not only benefit the CPP-NPA-NDF but also for the benefit of all the Filipinos including the law abiding citizens of the nation,” said Domogan.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/41494840816/-government-peace-panel-holds-consultation-workshop-in-baguio-city

AFP: No Abu Sayyaf retaliation moves but people asked to be vigilant

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): AFP: No Abu Sayyaf retaliation moves but people asked to be vigilant

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Friday there was no monitored movement by armed group as a form of retaliation after the fall of the two last Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) stragglers last May 15.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Matanguihan, the Army's 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, however, called on the people to remain vigilant, as retaliatory attacks were still possible.

Matanguihan made the statement during the weekly media forum "Kita ug ang Gobernador" (We and the Governor) at the People's Mansion here.

He added the AFP were ready to repel any terror threat from any armed groups and not just the ASG bandits.

Bohol has enough government troops to meet head on any threats despite the pull out of augmentation forces deployed here at the height of the ASG skirmishes.

He said it would be foolish for the bandits to launch a retaliatory attack here, citing the lack of community support for them to mount a campaign.

"They should think many times before going back here," said Matanguihan.

He added the Boholano community has been supporting government troops’ efforts against the bandits.

"The bandits were like fish without any water to swim in. Without water, it would be difficult for the ASG to swim and survive," he added.

Matanguihan said that in case there was a need for reinforcement, it would be easy for the AFP to pull out forces from Negros or Manila.

He said the AFP already recommended to the Office of the President a PHP2 million reward to the informants that led to the death of two ASG stragglers "Abu Asis" and "Abu Ubayda". The Office of the President has approved the reward recommendation.

He, however, declined to give details as to the number of recipients of the reward money, these being "classified information".

When asked when the reward would be awarded, he simply said "soon”.

On Monday, Police Regional Director Chief Supt. Noli Talino and Lt. Gen Oscar Lactao, commander of AFP’s Central Command declared Bohol free of ASG threats following the deaths of the two last stragglers.

Meanwhile, the AFP is revisiting the maritime security protocols to prevent any incursion of the bandits into other areas in the country.

The ASG bandits entered Barangay Napo in Inabanga via the waterway on-board three motorized bancas also known as “kumpit”.

Matanguihan said of an ongoing review of security protocol with the naval forces to stop any potential movement of armed groups while at sea.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989210

Balikatan concludes humanitarian works in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Balikatan concludes humanitarian works in Leyte





The joint military exercise in this city has built, not just classrooms, but stronger ties between the Philippines and the United States.

The US Armed Forces and Philippine Army concluded the Balikatan Exercise 2017 in this city with the turnover of school buildings in two sites here Thursday afternoon.

The troops built a two-classroom school building at Don Carlos Rivilla Elementary School in an upland Boroc village, more than five kilometers away from the city’s commercial district. Another building was also completed in the campus of Margen Elementary School in Margen village, another upland village.

At least 25 US troops with the help of 52 personnel of the 543rd Army Engineering Construction Battalion and Army Reservist Corps worked together to complete the project in less than a month.

“One of the tenets for success in adulthood is education. Children with a safe, quality learning environment are more likely to retain information, enjoy their schooling and attend college,” said Brig. Gen. John Jansen, commander of 3rd Expeditionary Brigade of the US Armed Forces during the turnover.

Jansen also lauded the professionalism and expertise of their counterpart from the Philippines as they go on in the exercise resulting for having better relationship between military forces of the two countries.

“They came here as a unified force and also build friendship that will last for a lifetime,” he added.

He added that the Balikatan also allows members of the military forces to grow, share, and progress.

Sgt. Peter Reft of the US Air Force said that the Balikatan was an excellent opportunity to showcase how the Filipinos and Americans worked together, building friendships along the way which he had captured and wrote a story about.

“Seeing everybody work together, shoulder-to-shoulder really puts in my perspective on how both countries can benefit from one another in both learning and teaching experience,” he said.

Don Carlos Rivilla Elementary School Principal Joven Tomada, receiving the classroom during the turn-over ceremony said that Balikatan solved the classroom shortage problem.

The campus has only 10 classrooms for 12 teachers and 416 students from Kindergarten to Grade 6.

“The ratio now of classroom per teacher is one is to one. The children will now have better learning space and will have place for conducive learning,” Tomanda said.

Margen Elementary School Principal Elvira de Leon also thanked the two forces as new rooms reduced the burden of the teachers to make learning more comfortable to children.

“The completion of project is timely for the opening of class on June 5,” de Leon said.

Mayor Richard Gomez witnessed the turn-over of classrooms. He recalled the long discussion made to ensure that the humanitarian military exercise would be pushed through in this city.

“It is always nice to see, people in the community working hand-in-hand, especially with the armed force, the product is always fantastic,” Gomez said. “With the classroom that you built, this will truly help our education system.”

Around 2,600 members of the US Armed Forces and 2,800 Filipino soldiers participated in the annual Balikatan Exercise focused on humanitarian works in selected areas in Luzon and Visayas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989270

Reds mull release of captive soldier in Bukidnon

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Reds mull release of captive soldier in Bukidnon

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) said the New People's Army (NPA) is considering releasing a soldier they captured recently in time for the fifth round of peace negotiations between the government and communist rebels later this month.

In a statement released to the media Friday, the NDFP said the NPA would release Technical Sergeant Joseph Paredes, a member of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, as a gesture of support to the peace talks between the government and the Communist Party of Philippines (CPP).

The NDFP has also appealed to church leaders, who are acting as third party facilitators, to intervene in the eventual freedom of Paredes.

The rebels have asked the military and the Philippine National Police to stop their respective combat operations within the region as one of its demands.

Bishop Felixberto Calang, of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), also a co-convener of the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform, one of the third party facilitators, said they will coordinate with Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri Jr. for the release of Paredes.

In an interview Thursday afternoon, Juliana De Falconeri, wife of Paredes, said that she would be thankful if the NPA would release his husband because “our family depends so much on him as the bread winner.”

She said that Paredes is neither an intelligence officer of the military nor a combatant.

She said her husband is an "ordinary soldier who works in the military as an office worker."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989283

Troops uncover 'NPA recruitment' in Zambo Norte school

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Troops uncover 'NPA recruitment' in Zambo Norte school

The military has uncovered alleged recruitment activities by the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in schools in remote areas in the nearby province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Lt. Col. Virgilio Hamos Jr., Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion commander, on Friday said the recruitment by NPAs in schools was discovered by soldiers participating in the conduct of "Brigada Eskwela," or the National Schools Maintenance Week,.

Brigada Eskwela brings together concerned stakeholders in repairing and preparing schools for the school opening in June.

Hamos said troops from the battalion's Alpha Company, led by 1Lt. Sotero Abrito III, on Wednesday found a sack full of books and NPA propaganda materials at the elementary school in Barangay Bagumbayan, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte.

At first, Hamos said the troops dumped the sack mistaking it contained trash left by the Brigada Eskwela participants.

However, the soldiers opened the sack when they noticed it contained books and other reading materials.

Among the books they found were "Primer Para sa Gawaing Paralegal Sa Kanayunan," "Special Nga Kursong Pangmasa," "Demokratikong Rebulosyon Sa Katawhan," and, "Araling Aktibista.”

“These [books] and reading materials are known to be used by the NPAs in indoctrinating and training new recruits and mass bases,” Hamos said.

Hamos strongly believed the NPAs are possibly targeting to indoctrinate and recruit school children.

“It appears that the NPAs are taking advantage of the innocence of the youths [in recruiting them],” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989326

Annual 'Balikatan' bolsters bond between PHL, US forces: AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Annual 'Balikatan' bolsters bond between PHL, US forces: AFP chief



With the ever-changing security landscape brought about by terrorism and other threats, the annual "Balikatan" exercises offer both American and Filipino forces a chance to strengthen their ties, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Eduardo Año, said Friday.

"Today’s dynamic and ever changing security landscape, continue to bring challenges brought about by terrorism, threats to cyber and maritime security, as well as natural and man-made disasters. These traditional and non-traditional threats put our capabilities, determination and ability to adapt to the toughest test. But these challenges also offer opportunities for us to further strengthen our ties," Año said during the closing ceremonies of the 2017 "Balikatan" exercises, held at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

This year's "Balikatan" military drills began on May 8 and ended Friday.

Special focus was paid to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills, along with counter-terrorism.

"For the past weeks, the 'Balikatan' exercises has been an avenue for us to further nurture our bond. Our joint undertakings are manifestations of our commitment to unity, trust and the willingness to come to each other’s aid in times of need," the AFP chief stressed.

He added that the annual military drills between American and Filipino troops have unveiled many breakthroughs significant to the two nations' shared aspiration of achieving global security and stability.

"I am certain that the new learnings from this year’s exercises will enable us to raise the level of our inter-operability," Año said.

To emphasize this further, the AFP chief quoted Charles Darwin, who once said:

“In the long history of humankind, those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989190

'Balikatan' shift due to PHL vulnerability to disasters

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): 'Balikatan' shift due to PHL vulnerability to disasters

The decision to focus this year's "Balikatan" humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) was due to the Philippines' vulnerability to disasters, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said during the closing ceremonies of the annual military exercise Friday.

"Last week, I was asked by media why we have shifted our focus on the exercise from territorial defense to HADR, well, I told them because we have to address some of the pressing problems of the country, we lie within the typhoon belt and the Ring of Fire, we are visited by typhoons at least 20 times a year and once in a while we have strong earthquakes like what happened in Bohol some four years," he added.

The just-concluded drills, the DND chief said has also boosted the Philippines capability to respond to calamities earthquakes.

"In fact, only this month, there was a briefing given to us by the PHILVOCS (Philippine Institute of Vulcanology and Seismology) saying that they are expecting the 'Big One" in Metro Manila because there is a big fault here (the Marikina fault) and according to them, the cycle of this (fault) is every 400 years and the last time that there was a big earthquake here in Metro Manila was in 1640, (so it's) about time (we start planning for this eventuality)," he added.

He added that the just-concluded "Balikatan" will help the military come up with measures to mitigate its effects.

"Trainings and drills are critical in order to improve stance, effectiveness and speed in the event of natural disasters and other crisis that endanger public health and safety," Lorenzana said.

This year's "Balikatan" exercises started May 8 and ended officially on the 19th.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989256

Pres. Duterte to visit Russia from May 23 to 26

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Pres. Duterte to visit Russia from May 23 to 26

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is slated to conduct an official visit to Russia from May 23 to 26, 2017 upon the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In a pre-departure briefing in Malacañang on Friday, May 19, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Maria Cleofe Natividad said President Duterte’s upcoming visit to Russia is expected to mark a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the Philippines and Russia.

“We also see this visit as an indication of our strong common desire to enhance and strengthen bilateral relations,” Natividad said, noting that the bilateral ties between the two countries is still at a “nascent stage” despite celebrating 40 years of bilateral ties last year.

“The relations can be best described as cordial, albeit, modest in scope and depth. Thus, we consider this visit as a landmark that will send a strong message of the Philippines’ commitment to seek new partnerships and strengthen relations with non-traditional partners such as Russia,” Natividad said.

In his visit, President Duterte is scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which will be held on the 24th and the 25th of May, the first and second day of the official visit.

“There, he will be discussing important issues and areas of cooperation and economic partnership with Prime Minister Medvedev and with President Putin on the cooperation in political, military and defense,” she said.

According to Natividad, several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during the President’s visit to Russia.

“These agreements are those related to defense, security, legal assistance, trade and investment, peaceful use of nuclear energy and culture,” she said.

These include defense cooperation, military and technical cooperation, the treaty on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters; treaty on extradition; an MOU on cooperation in the field of security between respective national security councils.

It will be recalled that President Duterte met with Russian President Putin in November last year at the sidelines of the APEC Summit meeting in Lima, Peru.

The President has also met with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev in September last year during the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos.

Meanwhile, Natividad said President Duterte is expected to deliver a policy speech at the prestigious Moscow State Institute of International Relations or the MGIMO.

“In that event, we expect the President to articulate his administration’s commitment to pursue an independent foreign policy that is anchored foremost on national interest considerations,” Natividad said.

“MGIMO, being an elite institution for diplomatic training and international relations will likewise anticipate that the President will share his ideas on how to achieve peace and security, especially in the Asia Pacific region,” she added.

Natividad also said President Duterte will be bringing with him an “impressive business delegation” to the Philippine–Russia Business Forum, as she noted that bilateral trade between the two countries could still improve.

“The forum would be an opportune time to share with the Russian companies the benefits of doing business in the Philippines and the very positive investment climate, especially in such areas such as infrastructure, energy, transportation, tourism and others,” Natividad said.

President Duterte is also scheduled to meet the Filipino community in Russia on the second day of his visit.

“We have around 5,000 Filipinos in Russia and we heard that they are very strong supporters of the President,” Natividad said.

“We believe that the President’s visit will be the start of a strong and enduring partnership between the Philippines and Russia that is multi-dimensional, mutually beneficial and will be in keeping with the principles of sovereignty, non-interference and equality,” she said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989262

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Año to formally retire June 2

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año will retire on June 2 to pave the way for his transfer to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said during the closing ceremonies of the annual "Balikatan" Friday.

This is almost five months earlier than the Oct. 26 scheduled retirement of Año, who is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983.

Lorenzana said he tried to persuade President Rodrigo Duterte to permit the AFP chief to complete or extend his term before assuming the DILG portfolio but the Chief Executive declined his request.

"I was trying to persuade the President to extend his ( Año) service with AFP, the last time was last night (Thursday) when I said, 'Mr. President, can we extend the stay of Gen. Año with the AFP?' but he said 'no, no, no, no'," the DND chief added.

"(Duterte said) let's have the turn-over by June 2 so that's final," he added.

Meanwhile, United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim congratulated the AFP chief on his recent nomination to head the DILG.

Kim said being a critically important cabinet post, "We will of course miss his tremendous leadership of the AFP."

"But I think it speaks volumes that President Duterte has nominated someone of his caliber to head this very important department," the US Ambassador said.

"We appreciate all your work for AFP and we look forward to working with you in your new posting Gen. Año ," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989274

Just concluded 'Balikatan' exercises a success - US Ambassador

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): Just concluded 'Balikatan' exercises a success - US Ambassador

This year's "Balikatan" exercises is a tremendous success, according to US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim.

"The rigorous training schedule and the hard work during this year's 'Balikatan' exercise have reinforced long standing ties and strengthen our combined ability to respond to today's challenges, over the last 12 days, thousands of our military servicemen, members trained together to share critical skill sets, understand each others planning processes and operations and refine their combined abilities," Kim remarked during the closing ceremonies of the annual military event held at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Friday.

This year's "Balikatan" exercises started on May 8 and ended on the 19th. Around 2,800 Filipino troops, 2,600 American soldiers, 80 members of the Australian Defense Forces participated in the two week drills which focused mostly on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and counter-terrorism missions.

"By all accounts 'Balikatan' 33 was a tremendous success. Our nations face an increasingly complex and volatile security environment, now more than ever our Armed Forces must work together closely. Exercises like 'Balikatan' build upon long and productive history between our two militaries and ensure that we are always ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder, in defense of our alliance, our shared values and the international rules-based order," Kim stressed.

He also said that the recently-concluded drills were "a great reflection of our enduring alliance and the deep bond between our two peoples, and I know that we just finished but we're already looking forward to training together as friends, partners and allies for next year's 'Balikatan,' so I thank and congratulate everyone involved who worked so hard to make this event successful."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989314