From the Sun Star-Manila (Feb 21): 2 cops hurt in IED blast in Rizal
TWO police officers were wounded on Wednesday, February 21, after two improvised explosive devices (IED) exploded in Baras, Rizal.
Chitadel Gaoiran, Police Regional Office 4 public information officer, said based on initial information, the team led by Superintendent Melchor Agusin was on their way to the 80th Infantry Battalion quarters from the Police Provincial Office when two IEDs exploded in Sitio Corazon de Jesus, Barangay Pinugay, Baras, Rizal.
The police officers, who were then on board a service vehicle, immediately moved away from the blast site.
Police Officer 2 Jimmy Talupa and Police Officer 2 Manuel Fanfasan were found injured by shrapnel.
The teams suspected that the devices were planted by members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
On Sunday, six Special Action Force (SAF) men were wounded in an ambush staged by suspected NPA rebels in Sitio San Josef, Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City, Rizal.
The two incidents came after Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison declared that the NPA, the party's armed wing, is capable of killing one policeman each day to force the government to revive the peace negotiations.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2018/02/21/2-cops-hurt-ied-blast-rizal-590069
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Philippine Rebels: We’re Not Terrorists, Remain Open to Talks
From the Voice of America (Feb 22): Philippine Rebels: We’re Not Terrorists, Remain Open to Talks
FILE - New People's Army new regional rebel commander and spokesman Jaime Padilla, who uses the nom de guerre Comrade Diego, raises his clenched fists after a clandestine news conference in a encampment in the harsh wilderness of the Sierra Madre mountains southeast of Manila, Philippines, Nov. 23, 2106.
Communist guerrillas say a Philippine government court petition to have them designated as terrorists is a desperate attempt to alienate them from the people and add they’re “heaven and earth” different from extremists notorious for beheadings and other atrocities.
Rebel commander Jaime Padilla said Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte will fail like past leaders in defeating the New People’s Army so he’s resorting to “fake news” to undermine the guerrillas, who have managed to wage an insurgency for nearly 50 years with the people’s support.
Justice officials asked a court Wednesday to formally designate the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing as terrorist groups.
Padilla says despite the move, the rebels remain open to a resumption of stalled talks to peacefully settle one of Asia’s longest-raging insurgencies.
https://www.voanews.com/a/philippines-rebels-say-theyre-not-terrorists/4265538.html
FILE - New People's Army new regional rebel commander and spokesman Jaime Padilla, who uses the nom de guerre Comrade Diego, raises his clenched fists after a clandestine news conference in a encampment in the harsh wilderness of the Sierra Madre mountains southeast of Manila, Philippines, Nov. 23, 2106.
Rebel commander Jaime Padilla said Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte will fail like past leaders in defeating the New People’s Army so he’s resorting to “fake news” to undermine the guerrillas, who have managed to wage an insurgency for nearly 50 years with the people’s support.
Justice officials asked a court Wednesday to formally designate the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing as terrorist groups.
Padilla says despite the move, the rebels remain open to a resumption of stalled talks to peacefully settle one of Asia’s longest-raging insurgencies.
https://www.voanews.com/a/philippines-rebels-say-theyre-not-terrorists/4265538.html
PMA honors 45 war heroes, departed alumni through memorial
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 22): PMA honors 45 war heroes, departed alumni through memorial
NEVER FORGET A memorial built at Fort del Pilar in Baguio City ensures that the sacrifice made by departed alumni of the Philippine Military Academy will never be forgotten. —EV ESPIRITU
FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Two combat heroes were among 45 departed graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) who were honored in last weekend’s alumni homecoming here.
Second Lieutenants Miguel Victor Alejo and Estelito Saldua Jr., who died in 2017, were given tribute along with older alumni in a memorial unveiled on Feb. 16, a day before the homecoming that was graced by businessman Enrique Razon Jr., chair and president of International Container Terminal Services Inc.
Both Alejo and Saldua graduated in 2015, as members of “Sinaglahi” class. Alejo was killed by communist rebels in a clash in Davao Oriental province, while Saldua died fighting Abu Sayyaf forces in Bohol province. Saldua was also a recipient of the Gold Cross medal.
Selfless
The memorial also honored departed alumni who graduated after World War II. Among them were Brigadier Generals Amado Santiago of Class 1951, Jose Bello Jr. of Class 1956 and Arturo Castro of Class 1959.
“The names etched on the wall died under different circumstances. Many paid the supreme sacrifice in the field of battle. All of them possessed determination and selflessness—qualities needed to fulfill dreams larger than themselves,” retired Gen. Melchor Rosales, chair of the PMA Alumni Association, said in his tribute at the Alumni Memorial Park in Relics Point here.
On Saturday, Razon lauded the military and the police for embracing a policy of political neutrality since the end of the regime of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos in 1986.
‘Backbone’
“Over the years, the Armed Forces of the Philippines has matured into the backbone for which we are able to develop and grow our economy and be more competitive in the global marketplace,” he said in a speech at the Borromeo Field.
Razon said he hoped to see the time when political power was no longer used against perceived enemies.
“I can only hope that at some point our politics will mature and our laws apply to all and not just used against political opponents by one administration after the other.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/970426/pma-honors-45-war-heroes-departed-alumni-through-memorial
NEVER FORGET A memorial built at Fort del Pilar in Baguio City ensures that the sacrifice made by departed alumni of the Philippine Military Academy will never be forgotten. —EV ESPIRITU
FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Two combat heroes were among 45 departed graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) who were honored in last weekend’s alumni homecoming here.
Second Lieutenants Miguel Victor Alejo and Estelito Saldua Jr., who died in 2017, were given tribute along with older alumni in a memorial unveiled on Feb. 16, a day before the homecoming that was graced by businessman Enrique Razon Jr., chair and president of International Container Terminal Services Inc.
Both Alejo and Saldua graduated in 2015, as members of “Sinaglahi” class. Alejo was killed by communist rebels in a clash in Davao Oriental province, while Saldua died fighting Abu Sayyaf forces in Bohol province. Saldua was also a recipient of the Gold Cross medal.
Selfless
The memorial also honored departed alumni who graduated after World War II. Among them were Brigadier Generals Amado Santiago of Class 1951, Jose Bello Jr. of Class 1956 and Arturo Castro of Class 1959.
“The names etched on the wall died under different circumstances. Many paid the supreme sacrifice in the field of battle. All of them possessed determination and selflessness—qualities needed to fulfill dreams larger than themselves,” retired Gen. Melchor Rosales, chair of the PMA Alumni Association, said in his tribute at the Alumni Memorial Park in Relics Point here.
On Saturday, Razon lauded the military and the police for embracing a policy of political neutrality since the end of the regime of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos in 1986.
‘Backbone’
“Over the years, the Armed Forces of the Philippines has matured into the backbone for which we are able to develop and grow our economy and be more competitive in the global marketplace,” he said in a speech at the Borromeo Field.
Razon said he hoped to see the time when political power was no longer used against perceived enemies.
“I can only hope that at some point our politics will mature and our laws apply to all and not just used against political opponents by one administration after the other.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/970426/pma-honors-45-war-heroes-departed-alumni-through-memorial
MILF told: Don’t play ISIS card amid BBL talks
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 22): MILF told: Don’t play ISIS card amid BBL talks
ligan lone district Rep. Frederick Siao on Thursday asked Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chairman Al-Hajj Ebrahim Murad “not to play the ISIS card” even as the House of Representatives endeavors to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
Murad Ebrahim, chairman of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
(AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE / MANILA BULLETIN)
This, after Murad reportedly identified Iligan and Cotabato as possible targets of a terrorist attack like the one launched in Marawi City last year in case the BBL doesn’t get Congress’s nod.
“As the Representative of Iligan City, I am deeply concerned about the statement of MILF Chairman Al-Hajj Ebrahim Murad that Iligan City and Cotabato may already be targets of terrorist groups for a sequel of their siege of Marawi City, in case the Bangsamoro Basic Law fails to pass,” Siao said in statement.
It can be recalled that Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) inspired Maute gunmen to occupy Marawi without warning on May 23, 2017. This sparked a grueling door-to-door campaign by government troops, who managed to liberate the city later in October.
Marawi sustained billions of pesos worth of damages, not to mention a forever damaged psyche.
While Siao said that he had since confirmed from military and defense officials that Iligan and Cotabato aren’t under any imminent terrorist threat, he still hoped that Murad would talk to the same officials first before speaking to the media.
“The concern of the esteemed MILF chairman for the welfare of Iligan and Cotabato is much appreciated, but I also hope he would first confer with top officials of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), DND (Department of National Defense), and DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) instead of first making such statements to the news media,” he said.
“Let me take this opportunity to assure Chairman Al-Hajj Murad that there is a good base of support in Congress for the passage of the proposed BBL and so there is no need to play the ISIS card while the BBL goes through the legislative process,” added Siao, who is a vice chairman of the Committee on Tourism.
The enabling law of a 2014 agreement between the Philippine government and secessionist group MILF, the proposed BBL primarily aims to usher in a period of peace and prosperity in Mindanao with the creation of a Bangsamoro juridical entity.
The Bangsamoro will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or ARMM.
The previous draft BBL–although aggressively pushed by the previous Aquino administration–failed to get the Congress approval due to its alleged plethora of unconstitutional provisions.
House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, President Rodrigo Duterte’s top lieutenant in the legislature, has repeatedly said that the Lower Chamber would conduct exhaustive discussions on the proposed statute in the current 17th Congress. In fact, committee hearings are being held about the BBL nearly every session day.
“Congress is simply in the process of ironing out the details to significantly increase the BBL’s success factors during the implementation phase,” Siao said.
He said that his city is still reeling from the effects of the Marawi siege last year.
“Iligan is one of the most progressive cities in Mindanao and is still recovering from the impact of the Battle of Marawi. The extension of Martial Law in Mindanao has helped stabilize the peace and order situation, as well as business confidence in Iligan and all over Mindanao.”
Siao in the same statement hailed government troops and police for being steadfast in their defense of Mindanao against all security threats.
“Their commitment to their duty has earned the admiration and respect of Iliganons,” he said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/02/22/milf-told-dont-play-isis-card-amid-bbl-talks/
ligan lone district Rep. Frederick Siao on Thursday asked Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chairman Al-Hajj Ebrahim Murad “not to play the ISIS card” even as the House of Representatives endeavors to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
Murad Ebrahim, chairman of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
(AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE / MANILA BULLETIN)
This, after Murad reportedly identified Iligan and Cotabato as possible targets of a terrorist attack like the one launched in Marawi City last year in case the BBL doesn’t get Congress’s nod.
“As the Representative of Iligan City, I am deeply concerned about the statement of MILF Chairman Al-Hajj Ebrahim Murad that Iligan City and Cotabato may already be targets of terrorist groups for a sequel of their siege of Marawi City, in case the Bangsamoro Basic Law fails to pass,” Siao said in statement.
It can be recalled that Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) inspired Maute gunmen to occupy Marawi without warning on May 23, 2017. This sparked a grueling door-to-door campaign by government troops, who managed to liberate the city later in October.
Marawi sustained billions of pesos worth of damages, not to mention a forever damaged psyche.
While Siao said that he had since confirmed from military and defense officials that Iligan and Cotabato aren’t under any imminent terrorist threat, he still hoped that Murad would talk to the same officials first before speaking to the media.
“The concern of the esteemed MILF chairman for the welfare of Iligan and Cotabato is much appreciated, but I also hope he would first confer with top officials of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), DND (Department of National Defense), and DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) instead of first making such statements to the news media,” he said.
“Let me take this opportunity to assure Chairman Al-Hajj Murad that there is a good base of support in Congress for the passage of the proposed BBL and so there is no need to play the ISIS card while the BBL goes through the legislative process,” added Siao, who is a vice chairman of the Committee on Tourism.
The enabling law of a 2014 agreement between the Philippine government and secessionist group MILF, the proposed BBL primarily aims to usher in a period of peace and prosperity in Mindanao with the creation of a Bangsamoro juridical entity.
The Bangsamoro will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or ARMM.
The previous draft BBL–although aggressively pushed by the previous Aquino administration–failed to get the Congress approval due to its alleged plethora of unconstitutional provisions.
House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, President Rodrigo Duterte’s top lieutenant in the legislature, has repeatedly said that the Lower Chamber would conduct exhaustive discussions on the proposed statute in the current 17th Congress. In fact, committee hearings are being held about the BBL nearly every session day.
“Congress is simply in the process of ironing out the details to significantly increase the BBL’s success factors during the implementation phase,” Siao said.
He said that his city is still reeling from the effects of the Marawi siege last year.
“Iligan is one of the most progressive cities in Mindanao and is still recovering from the impact of the Battle of Marawi. The extension of Martial Law in Mindanao has helped stabilize the peace and order situation, as well as business confidence in Iligan and all over Mindanao.”
Siao in the same statement hailed government troops and police for being steadfast in their defense of Mindanao against all security threats.
“Their commitment to their duty has earned the admiration and respect of Iliganons,” he said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/02/22/milf-told-dont-play-isis-card-amid-bbl-talks/
8 envoys, 21 generals get CA confirmation
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 21): 8 envoys, 21 generals get CA confirmation
The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed Wednesday the appointments of eight ambassadors and 21 generals and senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The confirmation was made during a plenary session presided by Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, concurrent CA chairman, held at the Senate session hall.
Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, chairman of the CA foreign affairs committee, however, deferred action on the appointment of Manuel Antonio Javier Teehankee as Philippine permanent representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland.
The decision to defer was triggered by Teehankee’s statement in documents he submitted to the CA that he has no pending criminal case which was refuted the Geneva Forum for Philippine Concerns, a non-governmental organization (NGO) on migrant affairs.
The group had written to Sen, Risa Hontiveros, a CA member, that Teehankee was found guilty of usury by the Geneva Police Court in Switzerland on December 17, 2014.
The Swiss court sentenced Teehankee to 60 days on probation and a fine of 600 Swiss francs for paying his Filipino household help only six percent of Geneva’s legislated minimum wage.
The domestic worker, whose name was withheld, claimed to have worked from 6 a.m. to midnight every single day and was not allowed to take at least one day per week “and Atty. Teehankee did not appeal this conviction,” the NGO wrote.
The letter also stated that the case dragged for 10 years because Teehankee invoked his diplomatic immunity when he was Philippine ambassador to the WTO in 1994.
Based on Lacson’s favorable endorsement, the CA confirmed the following ambassadors:
Grace Relucio Princesa, to the Holy See with concurrent jurisdiction over Malta; Frank Revil Cimafranca, to Greece and Cyprus; Marichu Barredo Mauro, to Brazil with concurrent jurisdiction over Colombia, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela; Hjayceelyn Mancenido Quintana, to the United Arab Emirates;
Linglingay Fonacier Lacanlale, to Argentina with concurrent jurisdiction over Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay; Cesar Lee Hiong Wee, to Indonesia; and Ombra T. Jainal, to the Czech Republic.
Confirmed as foreign service officer, class IV was Rowena F. Mutia.
A favorable endorsement from Rep. Roy M. Loyola, CA national defense committee chairman, led to the confirmation of Rozzano D. Briguez, Paul T. Atal and Danilo G. Pamonag as lieutenant generals.
It also confirmed as major generals Roseller G. Murillo, Jose Antonio Carlos B. Motril, Jesus A. Manangquil Jr., Fernando T. Trinidad and Gilbert I. Aglipay.
Erick A. Kagaoan was confirmed as rear admiral.
Confirmed as brigadier generals were Dionisio C. Baudin Jr., Juvymax R. Uy, Leopoldo A. Imbang Jr., Henry A. Robinson, Oliver R. Artuz, Byron H. Calimag, Eliezer L. Losanes , Filemon D. Mamaril Jr. and Agane C. Adriatico.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/02/21/8-envoys-21-generals-get-ca-confirmation/
The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed Wednesday the appointments of eight ambassadors and 21 generals and senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The confirmation was made during a plenary session presided by Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, concurrent CA chairman, held at the Senate session hall.
Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, chairman of the CA foreign affairs committee, however, deferred action on the appointment of Manuel Antonio Javier Teehankee as Philippine permanent representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland.
The decision to defer was triggered by Teehankee’s statement in documents he submitted to the CA that he has no pending criminal case which was refuted the Geneva Forum for Philippine Concerns, a non-governmental organization (NGO) on migrant affairs.
The group had written to Sen, Risa Hontiveros, a CA member, that Teehankee was found guilty of usury by the Geneva Police Court in Switzerland on December 17, 2014.
The Swiss court sentenced Teehankee to 60 days on probation and a fine of 600 Swiss francs for paying his Filipino household help only six percent of Geneva’s legislated minimum wage.
The domestic worker, whose name was withheld, claimed to have worked from 6 a.m. to midnight every single day and was not allowed to take at least one day per week “and Atty. Teehankee did not appeal this conviction,” the NGO wrote.
The letter also stated that the case dragged for 10 years because Teehankee invoked his diplomatic immunity when he was Philippine ambassador to the WTO in 1994.
Based on Lacson’s favorable endorsement, the CA confirmed the following ambassadors:
Grace Relucio Princesa, to the Holy See with concurrent jurisdiction over Malta; Frank Revil Cimafranca, to Greece and Cyprus; Marichu Barredo Mauro, to Brazil with concurrent jurisdiction over Colombia, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela; Hjayceelyn Mancenido Quintana, to the United Arab Emirates;
Linglingay Fonacier Lacanlale, to Argentina with concurrent jurisdiction over Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay; Cesar Lee Hiong Wee, to Indonesia; and Ombra T. Jainal, to the Czech Republic.
Confirmed as foreign service officer, class IV was Rowena F. Mutia.
A favorable endorsement from Rep. Roy M. Loyola, CA national defense committee chairman, led to the confirmation of Rozzano D. Briguez, Paul T. Atal and Danilo G. Pamonag as lieutenant generals.
It also confirmed as major generals Roseller G. Murillo, Jose Antonio Carlos B. Motril, Jesus A. Manangquil Jr., Fernando T. Trinidad and Gilbert I. Aglipay.
Erick A. Kagaoan was confirmed as rear admiral.
Confirmed as brigadier generals were Dionisio C. Baudin Jr., Juvymax R. Uy, Leopoldo A. Imbang Jr., Henry A. Robinson, Oliver R. Artuz, Byron H. Calimag, Eliezer L. Losanes , Filemon D. Mamaril Jr. and Agane C. Adriatico.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/02/21/8-envoys-21-generals-get-ca-confirmation/
PNP to recruit 2,500 SAF troopers
From Rappler (Feb 22): PNP to recruit 2,500 SAF troopers
Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa says the new commandos will be tasked to prevent terrorist attacks in the country
With the approval of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), the Philippine National Police (PNP) is adding 5 battalions or around 2,500 troopers to its Special Action Force (SAF).
The announcement: "The Commission approved the creation of 5 additional [battalions] in order to effectively carry out the mandate of the PNP to actively support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)," Napolcom Vice Chairman Rogelio Casurao announced in a statement on Thursday, February 22.
What for? The PNP SAF is the elite striking unit of the police, deployed for high-level hostage rescues, warfare, disaster assistance, and other special missions. It currently has 7 battalions.
In a press conference on Thursday, PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the additional commandos will help in "counterterrorism" and "internal security" operations, presumably to be assigned to the SAF's Anti-Terrorism Unit.
Why it matters: The elite force's expansion comes as the country faces the risk of more terror threats in the wake of the 5-month Marawi siege in 2017.
Trained in urban warfare, the PNP SAF provides valuable support to the AFP in times of terror attacks.
Go deeper: The Philippines has the most ISIS-claimed attacks outside Iraq and Syria, according to a report. The Metro Manila police chief also said the Philippine capital has "safe havens" for terrorists because of sympathizers.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/196664-pnp-recruit-special-action-force-troopers
Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa says the new commandos will be tasked to prevent terrorist attacks in the country
'TAGALIGTAS'. PNP SAF troopers deployed to Marawi City get a hero's welcome as they walk to Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. File photo by Ben Nabong/Rappler
With the approval of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), the Philippine National Police (PNP) is adding 5 battalions or around 2,500 troopers to its Special Action Force (SAF).
The announcement: "The Commission approved the creation of 5 additional [battalions] in order to effectively carry out the mandate of the PNP to actively support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)," Napolcom Vice Chairman Rogelio Casurao announced in a statement on Thursday, February 22.
What for? The PNP SAF is the elite striking unit of the police, deployed for high-level hostage rescues, warfare, disaster assistance, and other special missions. It currently has 7 battalions.
In a press conference on Thursday, PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the additional commandos will help in "counterterrorism" and "internal security" operations, presumably to be assigned to the SAF's Anti-Terrorism Unit.
Why it matters: The elite force's expansion comes as the country faces the risk of more terror threats in the wake of the 5-month Marawi siege in 2017.
Trained in urban warfare, the PNP SAF provides valuable support to the AFP in times of terror attacks.
Go deeper: The Philippines has the most ISIS-claimed attacks outside Iraq and Syria, according to a report. The Metro Manila police chief also said the Philippine capital has "safe havens" for terrorists because of sympathizers.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/196664-pnp-recruit-special-action-force-troopers
Rodrigo Duterte wants to create ‘balance’ by sending troops to China for training
From International Edition of the South China Morning Post-Diplomacy and Defense (Feb 21): Rodrigo Duterte wants to create ‘balance’ by sending troops to China for training
Philippine president’s counterterrorism proposal comes amid concern over growing risk of ‘miscalculation’ and conflict in South China Sea
Philippine president’s counterterrorism proposal comes amid concern over growing risk of ‘miscalculation’ and conflict in South China Sea
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he wants to send troops to China for training to combat terrorism, despite worries resurfacing over Beijing’s build-up in the contested South China Sea.
Duterte said there was a need to “balance” the training of Filipino soldiers, who have a strong bond with the US military, The Philippine Star reported.
“Most of the Filipino soldiers … would immediately choose America. They have forged such a bond,” Duterte was quoted as saying on Monday during an event marking the 20th anniversary of the Chinese-Filipino Business Club in Manila.
“My suggestion is the next batch should go directly to China ... so there would be a balance,” he said. “I’m sure there is an academy there to train good professional Chinese soldiers. Maybe China can accommodate them also and let them ... not really fight the Americans, but terrorism.”
Duterte said there was a need to “balance” the training of Filipino soldiers, who have a strong bond with the US military, The Philippine Star reported.
“Most of the Filipino soldiers … would immediately choose America. They have forged such a bond,” Duterte was quoted as saying on Monday during an event marking the 20th anniversary of the Chinese-Filipino Business Club in Manila.
“My suggestion is the next batch should go directly to China ... so there would be a balance,” he said. “I’m sure there is an academy there to train good professional Chinese soldiers. Maybe China can accommodate them also and let them ... not really fight the Americans, but terrorism.”
A former Philippine politician says the long-standing military bond with the US isn’t compatible with Chinese training. Photo: AFP
The proposal was met with optimism by Chinese military experts, who said it would help Duterte’s push to rebalance ties between the US and China, as well as consolidate his control over the military.
But in the Philippines, a former politician was sceptical, saying the long-standing military bond with the United States would not be compatible with Chinese training.
The development came as the Philippines’ envoy to China on Monday expressed concern over the rising risk of “miscalculation” and armed conflict in the South China Sea amid Beijing’s efforts to challenge US dominance in the disputed waters.
Several recent media and think tank reports have said Beijing appears to have expanded its communication links and other facilities on artificial islands in the area.
Rodrigo Duterte says Chinese military island bases are there to oppose US, not Philippines
“This is a show of trying to create a balance between these two powers that would serve the Philippines’ own interests,” said Xu Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Xu said the two countries could “start with cooperation on counterterrorism” before they expanded their military cooperation.
Military commentator and retired People’s Liberation Army colonel Yue Gang said the move would also help Duterte consolidate his control over the military.
“Ever since Duterte started improving relations with China, the military has always expressed an opposing view,” Yue said. “It seems that Duterte does not have very firm control over the military … working with China can strengthen his influence over personnel choices in the future.”
But Roilo Golez, a former Philippine congressman and National Security Adviser who oversaw the country’s counterterrorism and national security programme, was sceptical.
“The AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] doctrines and equipment are generally compatible with those of the US military, the US being our treaty ally since 1951,” he said. “That cannot be altered to adjust to the PLA.”
Golez also said the language barrier and the Chinese military’s lack of recent experience in real combat may be obstacles.
The proposal was met with optimism by Chinese military experts, who said it would help Duterte’s push to rebalance ties between the US and China, as well as consolidate his control over the military.
But in the Philippines, a former politician was sceptical, saying the long-standing military bond with the United States would not be compatible with Chinese training.
The development came as the Philippines’ envoy to China on Monday expressed concern over the rising risk of “miscalculation” and armed conflict in the South China Sea amid Beijing’s efforts to challenge US dominance in the disputed waters.
Several recent media and think tank reports have said Beijing appears to have expanded its communication links and other facilities on artificial islands in the area.
Rodrigo Duterte says Chinese military island bases are there to oppose US, not Philippines
“This is a show of trying to create a balance between these two powers that would serve the Philippines’ own interests,” said Xu Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Xu said the two countries could “start with cooperation on counterterrorism” before they expanded their military cooperation.
Military commentator and retired People’s Liberation Army colonel Yue Gang said the move would also help Duterte consolidate his control over the military.
“Ever since Duterte started improving relations with China, the military has always expressed an opposing view,” Yue said. “It seems that Duterte does not have very firm control over the military … working with China can strengthen his influence over personnel choices in the future.”
But Roilo Golez, a former Philippine congressman and National Security Adviser who oversaw the country’s counterterrorism and national security programme, was sceptical.
“The AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] doctrines and equipment are generally compatible with those of the US military, the US being our treaty ally since 1951,” he said. “That cannot be altered to adjust to the PLA.”
Golez also said the language barrier and the Chinese military’s lack of recent experience in real combat may be obstacles.
Under a 1951 treaty, the Philippines and the United States must protect each other if attacked. Photo: AFP
The Pentagon in June announced it was providing Philippine forces with security assistance and training in the areas of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in the fight against terrorism in conflict-torn Marawi.
It said it had an additional 300 to 500 troops in the country to support regular training and activities, on top of the regular 50 to 100 special forces troops in the south of the country on rotational exercises.
Also in June, China donated thousands of guns worth some 50 million yuan (US$7.8 million) to help Manila in its battle against Islamist gunmen in the southern city.
Chinese ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said at the time that “the Chinese side would like to explore the possibility of joint training, intelligence sharing and joint military exercises in the area of fighting terrorism”.
Philippines seethes over Chinese build-up in South China Sea
Speaking at Monday’s event, Duterte said the proposal did not mean Manila would cut ties with its traditional ally, the United States, which he has previously accused of interfering with the Philippines’ internal issues.
“Let us be very clear on this – we are on good terms with America. Special terms, military alliance – that’s why we cannot enter into another military alliance with any country because there’s only one,” Duterte said, referring to the Mutual Defence Treaty between Manila and Washington.
“The Philippines now is veering towards China. But we maintain good relations. We have this [Philippines-US] pact defence deal, we will honour it, I don’t know when. But if we go to war, everything wilts,” he said.
China, Philippines talks silent on militarisation of South China Sea
The Pentagon in June announced it was providing Philippine forces with security assistance and training in the areas of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in the fight against terrorism in conflict-torn Marawi.
It said it had an additional 300 to 500 troops in the country to support regular training and activities, on top of the regular 50 to 100 special forces troops in the south of the country on rotational exercises.
Also in June, China donated thousands of guns worth some 50 million yuan (US$7.8 million) to help Manila in its battle against Islamist gunmen in the southern city.
Chinese ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said at the time that “the Chinese side would like to explore the possibility of joint training, intelligence sharing and joint military exercises in the area of fighting terrorism”.
Philippines seethes over Chinese build-up in South China Sea
Speaking at Monday’s event, Duterte said the proposal did not mean Manila would cut ties with its traditional ally, the United States, which he has previously accused of interfering with the Philippines’ internal issues.
“Let us be very clear on this – we are on good terms with America. Special terms, military alliance – that’s why we cannot enter into another military alliance with any country because there’s only one,” Duterte said, referring to the Mutual Defence Treaty between Manila and Washington.
“The Philippines now is veering towards China. But we maintain good relations. We have this [Philippines-US] pact defence deal, we will honour it, I don’t know when. But if we go to war, everything wilts,” he said.
China, Philippines talks silent on militarisation of South China Sea
PSG chief slams how Rappler projected him as ‘the bad guy’
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): PSG chief slams how Rappler projected him as ‘the bad guy’
Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief, Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy, on Wednesday claimed thaappler was projecting him as “the bad guy” by not giving the public the “whole picture” of the incident, which involved one PSG personnel barring one of its reporters from entering Malacañang on Tuesday.
Dagoy was referring to the incident that involved Rappler’s Palace reporter Pia Ranada who was temporarily not allowed to enter Malacanang’s New Executive Building Tuesday.
Rappler, in its report about the incident, quoted Dagoy as saying that Ranada should be glad that the PSG personnel who stopped her from entering did not hurt her despite her bullying him.
The online news site was quoting Dagoy during an interview with Communication Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson Tuesday.
Dagoy claimed that Ranada was rude to the PSG personnel assigned at that time, Corporal Marc Anthony Cempron by taking a video of him on her phone.
He challenged Rappler to show the entire video of him making the statement to the public to reveal his statement’s entire context.
“You see how selective they are in finding fault at me without giving the people the whole picture of the incident. I challenge Rappler that they present the whole video to the public and let them decide who between us made the grievous mistake on what transpired during the incident,” Dagoy said.
“Imagine, namili lang ng (Rappler only selected a) portion of the incident, then project me already as the bad guy? Tama ba yan? Ganyan na ba ang standard ng media investigation ng Rappler (Is that right? Is that the standard of Rappler’s media investigation)?”
Dagoy said he refused to apologize to Ranada for what he said, urging her to apologize to his personnel.
“Me to apologize? In their dreams! Sila ang mag-apologize sa sundalo ko (They should apologize to my soldier),” Dagoy said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said Dagoy’s remark was “uncalled for” and that PSG personnel had no right to harm any of Rappler’s reporters.
“That remark was uncalled for and really off the mark. Whatever is Rappler's offense, the PSG has no right to harm Rappler's people or threaten them,” Lorenzana said.
He sought patience from Rappler, saying that Dagoy’s remark was brought about by the heat of the moment.
“Pasensiyahan nyo na. Bugso lang ng damdamin yan sa pressure ng trabaho nila (Please try to understand them. It was just the heat of the moment from the pressure of their job),” Lorenzana said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026077
Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief, Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy, on Wednesday claimed thaappler was projecting him as “the bad guy” by not giving the public the “whole picture” of the incident, which involved one PSG personnel barring one of its reporters from entering Malacañang on Tuesday.
Dagoy was referring to the incident that involved Rappler’s Palace reporter Pia Ranada who was temporarily not allowed to enter Malacanang’s New Executive Building Tuesday.
Rappler, in its report about the incident, quoted Dagoy as saying that Ranada should be glad that the PSG personnel who stopped her from entering did not hurt her despite her bullying him.
The online news site was quoting Dagoy during an interview with Communication Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson Tuesday.
Dagoy claimed that Ranada was rude to the PSG personnel assigned at that time, Corporal Marc Anthony Cempron by taking a video of him on her phone.
He challenged Rappler to show the entire video of him making the statement to the public to reveal his statement’s entire context.
“You see how selective they are in finding fault at me without giving the people the whole picture of the incident. I challenge Rappler that they present the whole video to the public and let them decide who between us made the grievous mistake on what transpired during the incident,” Dagoy said.
“Imagine, namili lang ng (Rappler only selected a) portion of the incident, then project me already as the bad guy? Tama ba yan? Ganyan na ba ang standard ng media investigation ng Rappler (Is that right? Is that the standard of Rappler’s media investigation)?”
Dagoy said he refused to apologize to Ranada for what he said, urging her to apologize to his personnel.
“Me to apologize? In their dreams! Sila ang mag-apologize sa sundalo ko (They should apologize to my soldier),” Dagoy said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said Dagoy’s remark was “uncalled for” and that PSG personnel had no right to harm any of Rappler’s reporters.
“That remark was uncalled for and really off the mark. Whatever is Rappler's offense, the PSG has no right to harm Rappler's people or threaten them,” Lorenzana said.
He sought patience from Rappler, saying that Dagoy’s remark was brought about by the heat of the moment.
“Pasensiyahan nyo na. Bugso lang ng damdamin yan sa pressure ng trabaho nila (Please try to understand them. It was just the heat of the moment from the pressure of their job),” Lorenzana said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026077
Submarines needed to make PH Navy more respectable: Empedrad
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Submarines needed to make PH Navy more respectable: Empedrad
While pushing for the completion of the country's first two missile-capable frigates, Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command, Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad said the country also needs to acquire submarines as they are the "future of naval warfare".
When asked by Senator Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao on what other equipment the Navy needs to be fully modernized, during the Senate hearing on the Frigate Acquisition Project earlier this week, Empedrad said, "Sir, we have a lot of concerns in the Navy, your honor. But for me, the future of naval warfare is submarine warfare. And I believe that if we want to get the respect of other foreign countries or navies, we should acquire submarines."
This, he said, is due to their stealthy nature, which makes them very difficult to detect.
Submarines are naval vessels that can operate in deep or shallow waters and are capable of carrying a variety of weapons that can be used to attack land, sea and air targets.
"Sabi nga nila, mahirap kalabanin iyong kalaban na hindi nakikita (As they say, it is difficult to contain an invisible enemy). So if we have submarines, I'm sure other powerful navies would respect the Philippine Navy - if we get the submarine, your honor," Empedrad said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is expected to acquire its own diesel-electric class submarines during the 2nd Horizon of the AFP Modernization Program, which is expected to begin this year and end in 2022.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026088
While pushing for the completion of the country's first two missile-capable frigates, Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command, Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad said the country also needs to acquire submarines as they are the "future of naval warfare".
When asked by Senator Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao on what other equipment the Navy needs to be fully modernized, during the Senate hearing on the Frigate Acquisition Project earlier this week, Empedrad said, "Sir, we have a lot of concerns in the Navy, your honor. But for me, the future of naval warfare is submarine warfare. And I believe that if we want to get the respect of other foreign countries or navies, we should acquire submarines."
This, he said, is due to their stealthy nature, which makes them very difficult to detect.
Submarines are naval vessels that can operate in deep or shallow waters and are capable of carrying a variety of weapons that can be used to attack land, sea and air targets.
"Sabi nga nila, mahirap kalabanin iyong kalaban na hindi nakikita (As they say, it is difficult to contain an invisible enemy). So if we have submarines, I'm sure other powerful navies would respect the Philippine Navy - if we get the submarine, your honor," Empedrad said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is expected to acquire its own diesel-electric class submarines during the 2nd Horizon of the AFP Modernization Program, which is expected to begin this year and end in 2022.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026088
2 frigates to symbolize Pinoy seafarers: Lorenzana
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): 2 frigates to symbolize Pinoy seafarers: Lorenzana
The two frigates, once completed, will serve as the proud symbol of the intrepid Filipino seafarers, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has said.
"Aside from their impressive offensive and defensive capabilities, they will serve as a shining symbol of our people, who come from a proud race of seafarers, and highlight our ability to defend our seas and territories. They will also serve as a manifestation of our country’s march toward real independence and self-determination," Lorenzana said during the Senate hearing on the Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) early this week.
The two ships, contracted by Hyundai Heavy Industries, will be armed with weapons capable of neutralizing air, surface and sub-surface threats. They are worth PHP18 billion, including all the weapon systems and munitions.
The defense chief added that the acquisition of these ships will help the Philippines achieve security, stability and peace.
The FAP, he said, highlights the true build up of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Earlier, Lorenzana also cleared Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go of any allegations in attempting to influence or intervene in the FAP.
"That at no instance did the Office of the President and/or Special Assistant to the President Christopher ‘Bong’ Go, or anyone from the Presidential Management Staff, or anyone outside the defense (establishment), attempted to influence the Frigate Acquisition Project," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026090
The two frigates, once completed, will serve as the proud symbol of the intrepid Filipino seafarers, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has said.
"Aside from their impressive offensive and defensive capabilities, they will serve as a shining symbol of our people, who come from a proud race of seafarers, and highlight our ability to defend our seas and territories. They will also serve as a manifestation of our country’s march toward real independence and self-determination," Lorenzana said during the Senate hearing on the Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) early this week.
The two ships, contracted by Hyundai Heavy Industries, will be armed with weapons capable of neutralizing air, surface and sub-surface threats. They are worth PHP18 billion, including all the weapon systems and munitions.
The defense chief added that the acquisition of these ships will help the Philippines achieve security, stability and peace.
The FAP, he said, highlights the true build up of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Earlier, Lorenzana also cleared Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go of any allegations in attempting to influence or intervene in the FAP.
"That at no instance did the Office of the President and/or Special Assistant to the President Christopher ‘Bong’ Go, or anyone from the Presidential Management Staff, or anyone outside the defense (establishment), attempted to influence the Frigate Acquisition Project," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026090
Terror tag for CPP-NPA urgently needed: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Terror tag for CPP-NPA urgently needed: AFP
There is an urgent need for the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA), to be declared as terrorist groups as they are no different from the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group.
AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin made the statement when sought for comment on the petition filed by the Department of Justice at the Manila Regional Trial Court to declare the CPP and NPA as terrorist groups.
"Mahalaga na madeklarang terorista ang NPA, upang lubusan ng maalis sa kanila ang imaheng pagkukunwari, na sila ang tunay na nakikipaglaban para sa bayan. Sa pagiging terorista, sila na ngayon ay kahanay ng mga grupong Abu Sayyaf at Maute (It is important to declare the NPA as terrorist group, for their pretentious image of fighting for the people to stop. For being terrorists, they are now in the same rank of Abu Sayyaf and Maute)," he added.
Also, in the past few months, Datuin said the entire country had witnessed terror acts committed by the rebels that included kidnapping, killing of innocent civilians and torching and destruction of numerous properties, both private and public, and extortion activities.
And should the CPP-NPA be declared terrorist groups, the AFP said that all of their supporters would be made liable to the government under Republic Act 10168 (The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012).
In the same vein, Datuin said the entire AFP is urging the remaining NPAs in the mountains to cease their armed struggle and reintegrate themselves back to society.
"Kaya ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas ay nananawagan sa mga natitirang NPA sa kabundukan, na panahon na upang talikuran ang armadong pakikipaglaban, at magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan. Ang gobyerno ay handang tumulong upang makapagbagong buhay ang magbabalik loob (That is why the Armed Forces of the Philippines is calling on the remaining NPAs in the mountains that it is time to end the armed conflict and return to the fold of the law. The government is ready to help them start new lives)," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026132
There is an urgent need for the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA), to be declared as terrorist groups as they are no different from the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group.
AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin made the statement when sought for comment on the petition filed by the Department of Justice at the Manila Regional Trial Court to declare the CPP and NPA as terrorist groups.
"Mahalaga na madeklarang terorista ang NPA, upang lubusan ng maalis sa kanila ang imaheng pagkukunwari, na sila ang tunay na nakikipaglaban para sa bayan. Sa pagiging terorista, sila na ngayon ay kahanay ng mga grupong Abu Sayyaf at Maute (It is important to declare the NPA as terrorist group, for their pretentious image of fighting for the people to stop. For being terrorists, they are now in the same rank of Abu Sayyaf and Maute)," he added.
Also, in the past few months, Datuin said the entire country had witnessed terror acts committed by the rebels that included kidnapping, killing of innocent civilians and torching and destruction of numerous properties, both private and public, and extortion activities.
And should the CPP-NPA be declared terrorist groups, the AFP said that all of their supporters would be made liable to the government under Republic Act 10168 (The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012).
In the same vein, Datuin said the entire AFP is urging the remaining NPAs in the mountains to cease their armed struggle and reintegrate themselves back to society.
"Kaya ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas ay nananawagan sa mga natitirang NPA sa kabundukan, na panahon na upang talikuran ang armadong pakikipaglaban, at magbalik-loob na sa pamahalaan. Ang gobyerno ay handang tumulong upang makapagbagong buhay ang magbabalik loob (That is why the Armed Forces of the Philippines is calling on the remaining NPAs in the mountains that it is time to end the armed conflict and return to the fold of the law. The government is ready to help them start new lives)," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026132
Reports on US intel report tagging Duterte as threat 'clickbait'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Reports on US intel report tagging Duterte as threat 'clickbait'
"It’s not fake news, but clickbait."
This was how Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque described headlines of some mainstream media outlets on the report that US intelligence report has tagged President Rodrigo R. Duterte as threat to democracy in Southeast Asia.
On Feb. 12, the Worldwide Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community released a report stating that Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution and declare a revolutionary government or martial law.
Citing a Freedom House report, the US intel report also listed the Philippines as one of the governments that uses propaganda and misinformation in social media “to influence foreign and domestic audiences.”
“Apparently, clickbait po yung napabalita sa lahat ng mainstream media. Hindi naman siya fake news kasi talagang sinabi ng intel department na baka magdeklara ng martial law sa buong Pilipinas at baka mag deklara ng revgov (revolutionary government) pero yung sinasabi na binansagan daw si Pangulong Duterte na threat to democracy in Southeast Asia, clickbait po ‘yun. Walang katuturan (“Apparently, what the mainstream media reported was clickbait. It’s not fake news, because it’s true that the intelligence department said that President Duterte could declare martial law in the entire Philippines or that he could declare a revolutionary government but what was mentioned that he was labeled as a threat to democracy in Southeast Asia, that’s clickbait. It’s worthless.”),” Roque said.
In a phone-patch interview on Wednesday morning, Roque expressed concern on the US intel report noting that the Palace will take its concern.
However, that same afternoon, he issued a statement describing it as “myopic and speculative” after having read the report.
He clarified that he made his initial statement because he was “made to comment on clickbait.”
“The Philippine mainstream media yesterday bannered a clickbait headline describing the President as a threat to democracy or a regional threat. I responded when asked during a live phone patch interview by saying we view this with concern. Later on in the day, with the relevant information forwarded to me by my staff, I prepared and issued a statement responsive to the pertinent portion of the US intelligent community's report on the Philippines under the administration or governance of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. In particular, we described as myopic and speculative its reference to the president suspending the constitution, declaring revolutionary government and imposing nationwide martial law. I hope this clarifies this matter," Roque said.
Roque, a human rights advocate, earlier said that he would not join Duterte’s Cabinet if the President, a lawyer himself, was a threat to human rights.
“He’s a lawyer. He knows the law. He wants to uphold the rule of law. He knows about the bill of rights. And of course I wouldn’t have joined him if he was a threat to human rights,” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026121
"It’s not fake news, but clickbait."
This was how Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque described headlines of some mainstream media outlets on the report that US intelligence report has tagged President Rodrigo R. Duterte as threat to democracy in Southeast Asia.
On Feb. 12, the Worldwide Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community released a report stating that Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution and declare a revolutionary government or martial law.
Citing a Freedom House report, the US intel report also listed the Philippines as one of the governments that uses propaganda and misinformation in social media “to influence foreign and domestic audiences.”
“Apparently, clickbait po yung napabalita sa lahat ng mainstream media. Hindi naman siya fake news kasi talagang sinabi ng intel department na baka magdeklara ng martial law sa buong Pilipinas at baka mag deklara ng revgov (revolutionary government) pero yung sinasabi na binansagan daw si Pangulong Duterte na threat to democracy in Southeast Asia, clickbait po ‘yun. Walang katuturan (“Apparently, what the mainstream media reported was clickbait. It’s not fake news, because it’s true that the intelligence department said that President Duterte could declare martial law in the entire Philippines or that he could declare a revolutionary government but what was mentioned that he was labeled as a threat to democracy in Southeast Asia, that’s clickbait. It’s worthless.”),” Roque said.
In a phone-patch interview on Wednesday morning, Roque expressed concern on the US intel report noting that the Palace will take its concern.
However, that same afternoon, he issued a statement describing it as “myopic and speculative” after having read the report.
He clarified that he made his initial statement because he was “made to comment on clickbait.”
“The Philippine mainstream media yesterday bannered a clickbait headline describing the President as a threat to democracy or a regional threat. I responded when asked during a live phone patch interview by saying we view this with concern. Later on in the day, with the relevant information forwarded to me by my staff, I prepared and issued a statement responsive to the pertinent portion of the US intelligent community's report on the Philippines under the administration or governance of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. In particular, we described as myopic and speculative its reference to the president suspending the constitution, declaring revolutionary government and imposing nationwide martial law. I hope this clarifies this matter," Roque said.
Roque, a human rights advocate, earlier said that he would not join Duterte’s Cabinet if the President, a lawyer himself, was a threat to human rights.
“He’s a lawyer. He knows the law. He wants to uphold the rule of law. He knows about the bill of rights. And of course I wouldn’t have joined him if he was a threat to human rights,” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026121
DFA urged to file diplomatic protest over US intel report
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): DFA urged to file diplomatic protest over US intel report
Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez wants the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to file a diplomatic protest against the United States over its intelligence report claiming President Rodrigo Duterte is a threat to democracy and human rights.
Alvarez said it is the US who undermines the sovereignty of many nations because of its meddling in other countries' internal affairs in order to ensure its dominance and promote its interests.
“Unang-una, mag-ano ng protesta yung DFA kasi, anong pakialam nila sa atin, di ba? Sila nga itong maraming kalokohan sa iba’t ibang bansa (First of all, the DFA should file a protest because what do they care about us, right? They are the ones who did a lot of mischief in other countries),” Alvarez said in a radio interview.
According to the US Intelligence Community in its Worldwide Threat Assessment report, Duterte is among the "regional threats" to US national security in Southeast Asia.
"In the Philippines, President Duterte will continue to wage his signature campaign against drugs, corruption, and crime," the US Intelligence Community said.
"Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution, declare a 'revolutionary government', and impose nationwide martial law. His declaration of martial law in Mindanao, responding to the ISIS-inspired siege of Marawi City, has been extended through the end of 2018," the US Intelligence Community added.
Alvarez called on the Filipino people to unite and protect the sovereignty of the Philippines from undue interference by the US.
“Matagal na silang nakikialam sa atin. Dapat ngayon ipakita natin na hindi dapat nila pakialaman yung ating sovereignty (They have long meddled with our own affairs. Now, we should show them that they should not trample upon our sovereignty),” Alvarez said.
US intel report merely based on headlines
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, meanwhile, dismissed the US report, saying that it seemed to be merely based on the headlines of international media outfits.
According to the US Intelligence Community in its Worldwide Threat Assessment report, Duterte is among the "regional threats" to US national security in Southeast Asia.
"In the Philippines, President Duterte will continue to wage his signature campaign against drugs, corruption, and crime," the US Intelligence Community said.
"Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution, declare a 'revolutionary government,' and impose nationwide martial law. His declaration of martial law in Mindanao, responding to the ISIS-inspired siege of Marawi City, has been extended through the end of 2018," it added.
Gatchalian pointed out, that most of what was written in the report missed the point and was far from the reality on the ground.
“Actually, binasa ko ang report na yun (I read that report) and it's really a three-sentence mention of the Philippines. Ang analysis ko, yung sentence na yun ay based on headlines na nababasa nila sa international papers o international media outfits (My analysis is that sentence is based on headlines that they read in international papers or international media outfits,” the lawmaker said during the regular Kapihan sa Senado forum.
“That analysis (report) is based on the things that they read in the headlines. But if you go deeper into details, especially to the actions of the President, hindi naman ganoon ang ginagawa niya,” Gatchalian said.
While President Duterte did say in the past that he might be “tempted” to suspend the Constitution and impose nationwide martial law, Gatchalian noted the Chief Executive’s penchant for exaggeration and said that the Filipino people “are all used to that exaggeration.”
He said that for him, “actions speak louder than words” and the President’s actions were far from what the US intelligence report was implying.
“Sabi doon sa report, isu-suspend ang (The report said there will be a suspension of the) Constitution but there is no way na masu-suspend ang (to suspend the) Constitution because we have a Constitution in the Senate that will prevent that from happening,” he said.
“Nasabi doon na papalaganapin ng President ang martial law (It was stated there that the President will expand martial law), but the President went to Congress to seek advice and to seek permission to expand martial law in Mindanao, at in-affirm naman ito ng Supreme Court (and it was affirmed by the Supreme Court). So makikita natin (as we can see) we have mechanism in place para hindi mangyari ang mga sinasabi niya,” Gatchalian stressed.
Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law after Islamic State-inspired terrorists attacked Marawi last May 23, 2017.
On his request, lawmakers extended martial law until December 31, 2017.
Due to the continued threat of terrorism, Congress approved anew Duterte’s request to further extend martial law in Mindanao for another year, or until the end of 2018.
On all counts, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of martial law in the region.
“Three sentences cannot describe what is happening in our country. Mas maraming (There are more) discussions ang dapat gawin upang malaman ang totoong nangyayari sa ating bansa (that must be done to know what is really happening in our country) and I believe our institutions are working,” Gatchalian said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026162
Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez wants the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to file a diplomatic protest against the United States over its intelligence report claiming President Rodrigo Duterte is a threat to democracy and human rights.
Alvarez said it is the US who undermines the sovereignty of many nations because of its meddling in other countries' internal affairs in order to ensure its dominance and promote its interests.
“Unang-una, mag-ano ng protesta yung DFA kasi, anong pakialam nila sa atin, di ba? Sila nga itong maraming kalokohan sa iba’t ibang bansa (First of all, the DFA should file a protest because what do they care about us, right? They are the ones who did a lot of mischief in other countries),” Alvarez said in a radio interview.
According to the US Intelligence Community in its Worldwide Threat Assessment report, Duterte is among the "regional threats" to US national security in Southeast Asia.
"In the Philippines, President Duterte will continue to wage his signature campaign against drugs, corruption, and crime," the US Intelligence Community said.
"Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution, declare a 'revolutionary government', and impose nationwide martial law. His declaration of martial law in Mindanao, responding to the ISIS-inspired siege of Marawi City, has been extended through the end of 2018," the US Intelligence Community added.
Alvarez called on the Filipino people to unite and protect the sovereignty of the Philippines from undue interference by the US.
“Matagal na silang nakikialam sa atin. Dapat ngayon ipakita natin na hindi dapat nila pakialaman yung ating sovereignty (They have long meddled with our own affairs. Now, we should show them that they should not trample upon our sovereignty),” Alvarez said.
US intel report merely based on headlines
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, meanwhile, dismissed the US report, saying that it seemed to be merely based on the headlines of international media outfits.
According to the US Intelligence Community in its Worldwide Threat Assessment report, Duterte is among the "regional threats" to US national security in Southeast Asia.
"In the Philippines, President Duterte will continue to wage his signature campaign against drugs, corruption, and crime," the US Intelligence Community said.
"Duterte has suggested he could suspend the Constitution, declare a 'revolutionary government,' and impose nationwide martial law. His declaration of martial law in Mindanao, responding to the ISIS-inspired siege of Marawi City, has been extended through the end of 2018," it added.
Gatchalian pointed out, that most of what was written in the report missed the point and was far from the reality on the ground.
“Actually, binasa ko ang report na yun (I read that report) and it's really a three-sentence mention of the Philippines. Ang analysis ko, yung sentence na yun ay based on headlines na nababasa nila sa international papers o international media outfits (My analysis is that sentence is based on headlines that they read in international papers or international media outfits,” the lawmaker said during the regular Kapihan sa Senado forum.
“That analysis (report) is based on the things that they read in the headlines. But if you go deeper into details, especially to the actions of the President, hindi naman ganoon ang ginagawa niya,” Gatchalian said.
While President Duterte did say in the past that he might be “tempted” to suspend the Constitution and impose nationwide martial law, Gatchalian noted the Chief Executive’s penchant for exaggeration and said that the Filipino people “are all used to that exaggeration.”
He said that for him, “actions speak louder than words” and the President’s actions were far from what the US intelligence report was implying.
“Sabi doon sa report, isu-suspend ang (The report said there will be a suspension of the) Constitution but there is no way na masu-suspend ang (to suspend the) Constitution because we have a Constitution in the Senate that will prevent that from happening,” he said.
“Nasabi doon na papalaganapin ng President ang martial law (It was stated there that the President will expand martial law), but the President went to Congress to seek advice and to seek permission to expand martial law in Mindanao, at in-affirm naman ito ng Supreme Court (and it was affirmed by the Supreme Court). So makikita natin (as we can see) we have mechanism in place para hindi mangyari ang mga sinasabi niya,” Gatchalian stressed.
Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law after Islamic State-inspired terrorists attacked Marawi last May 23, 2017.
On his request, lawmakers extended martial law until December 31, 2017.
Due to the continued threat of terrorism, Congress approved anew Duterte’s request to further extend martial law in Mindanao for another year, or until the end of 2018.
On all counts, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of martial law in the region.
“Three sentences cannot describe what is happening in our country. Mas maraming (There are more) discussions ang dapat gawin upang malaman ang totoong nangyayari sa ating bansa (that must be done to know what is really happening in our country) and I believe our institutions are working,” Gatchalian said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026162
Army eyes deployment of elite force to Leyte
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Army eyes deployment of elite force to Leyte
CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar -- Some members of the Army battalion recently formed to fight communist rebels will be deployed to Leyte province this year.
Major Gen. Raul Farnacio, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, confirmed the assignment on Thursday, but declined to reveal the number of troops from the 93rd Infantry Battalion (IB) to be sent and the specific timetable for the deployment.
The 93rd IB or the elite force is under the 8th Infantry Division.
Farnacio said the 93rd IB soldiers are currently undergoing six months of intensive training on counter-insurgency operations at Camp Fatima, in Bagacay village, Hinabangan Samar prior to deployment.
“This is to build their confidence and prepare the troops to go out and engage their enemies in the mountain areas of Jaro, Burauen and Albuera in Leyte where rebels have sought sanctuary and established defenses,” Farnacio told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Eastern Visayas needs additional troops and soldiers from the 93rd IB, said Farnacio.
They will also be deployed to Samar Island after their mission in Leyte.
Leyte will be the priority for the deployment of the elite force as the New People’s Army from Samar Island has intensified its effort to retake its former strongholds in the mountains of Leyte.
The 93rd IB, also known as “Bantay Kapayapaan” (Peacekeeper), is headed by Lt. Col. Hilarion Palma and composed of 500 well-trained army officers and enlisted military personnel.
The NPA in Eastern Visayas has 403 active members with 577 firearms. It has five guerrilla fronts in Leyte and Samar and maintains its influence in 31 villages, according to the 4th quarter 2017 report of the Philippine Army to the Regional Development Council.
Meanwhile, Farnacio encourages local officials and other sectors to initiate dialogues between them and NPA members to open up opportunities to talk peace at the local level.
The Army, according to Farnacio, is ready to support the local peace talks despite countless of failed attempts to agree on peace deals.
“We do believe that if there is peace, progress and development would soon follow. Investors would come in and provide jobs to people in the region,” Farnacio said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026129
CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar -- Some members of the Army battalion recently formed to fight communist rebels will be deployed to Leyte province this year.
Major Gen. Raul Farnacio, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, confirmed the assignment on Thursday, but declined to reveal the number of troops from the 93rd Infantry Battalion (IB) to be sent and the specific timetable for the deployment.
The 93rd IB or the elite force is under the 8th Infantry Division.
Farnacio said the 93rd IB soldiers are currently undergoing six months of intensive training on counter-insurgency operations at Camp Fatima, in Bagacay village, Hinabangan Samar prior to deployment.
“This is to build their confidence and prepare the troops to go out and engage their enemies in the mountain areas of Jaro, Burauen and Albuera in Leyte where rebels have sought sanctuary and established defenses,” Farnacio told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Eastern Visayas needs additional troops and soldiers from the 93rd IB, said Farnacio.
They will also be deployed to Samar Island after their mission in Leyte.
Leyte will be the priority for the deployment of the elite force as the New People’s Army from Samar Island has intensified its effort to retake its former strongholds in the mountains of Leyte.
The 93rd IB, also known as “Bantay Kapayapaan” (Peacekeeper), is headed by Lt. Col. Hilarion Palma and composed of 500 well-trained army officers and enlisted military personnel.
The NPA in Eastern Visayas has 403 active members with 577 firearms. It has five guerrilla fronts in Leyte and Samar and maintains its influence in 31 villages, according to the 4th quarter 2017 report of the Philippine Army to the Regional Development Council.
Meanwhile, Farnacio encourages local officials and other sectors to initiate dialogues between them and NPA members to open up opportunities to talk peace at the local level.
The Army, according to Farnacio, is ready to support the local peace talks despite countless of failed attempts to agree on peace deals.
“We do believe that if there is peace, progress and development would soon follow. Investors would come in and provide jobs to people in the region,” Farnacio said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026129
Armed men harass police detachment in Koronadal
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Armed men harass police detachment in Koronadal
Unidentified motorcycle-riding gunmen attacked a police detachment here early Thursday, but no casualty was reported.
Police Officer 1 Cyrus Sambog said he was on watch at the detachment of the 3rd Provincial Mobile Force Platoon at the boundary of Barangay Saravia here and Palian of Tupi, South Cotabato at around 4 a.m. when two suspects suddenly opened fire.
He said the gunmen fired several shots at the detachment and hastily left the area after several minutes towards the direction of Tupi town.
Sambog said he immediately alerted other standby police operatives, who pursued but failed to catch up with the suspects.
“They clearly targeted our detachment,” he said in a radio interview.
Prior to the attack, Sambog said a black motorycle with two men on board initially stopped infront of the detachment.
Police investigators are already looking into several angles as possible motive of the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026147
Unidentified motorcycle-riding gunmen attacked a police detachment here early Thursday, but no casualty was reported.
Police Officer 1 Cyrus Sambog said he was on watch at the detachment of the 3rd Provincial Mobile Force Platoon at the boundary of Barangay Saravia here and Palian of Tupi, South Cotabato at around 4 a.m. when two suspects suddenly opened fire.
He said the gunmen fired several shots at the detachment and hastily left the area after several minutes towards the direction of Tupi town.
Sambog said he immediately alerted other standby police operatives, who pursued but failed to catch up with the suspects.
“They clearly targeted our detachment,” he said in a radio interview.
Prior to the attack, Sambog said a black motorycle with two men on board initially stopped infront of the detachment.
Police investigators are already looking into several angles as possible motive of the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026147
Cops question 5 foreign activists in SoCot
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Cops question 5 foreign activists in SoCot
Authorities held for questioning on Thursday five foreign activists who participated in a fact-finding mission of the alleged massacre by government troops last December of nine lumads or tribal residents in a remote village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato.
South Cotabago Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes said the foreigners were stopped by police operatives at past 8 a.m. at a checkpoint in Barangay Palian in Tupi, South Cotabato due to the lack of identification and travel documents.
Citing a report from South Cotabato police director, Sr. Supt. Nestor Salcedo, she said the group came from Lake Sebu and was en route to this city aboard a truck.
The governor said the foreigners also claimed to be journalists but their affiliations were not immediately known.
“Some of them were not able to present identification cards and passports so they were brought to the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration,” she said in an interview over radio station Bombo Radyo in Koronadal City.
Sources from the local chapters of militant groups Baagong Alyansang Makabayan and Karapatan said the foreigners were from the United States and Zimbabwe, and came to the area for the fact-finding mission.
The group was supposed to present their findings in a press conference here scheduled at 10 a.m.
The foreign activists, who reportedly included members of the Gabriela Network USA, were identified as Julie Jamora, Dina Anderson, Jamy Drapeza, Adam Shaw and Tawanda Chandiwana.
Arlyn Perez, coordinator of Kalumahin Federation of Indigenous People, denounced the holding of the foreign nationals and blamed it on alleged connivance between the military and provincial officials.
But Fuentes debunked such claim and said that police authorities were “just doing their jobs.”
She clarified that the group would not have been held by authorities if they had proper identification and travel documents.
The governor said police were mandated to verify the identities of visiting foreign nationals when necessary, especially for security purposes.
Fuentes said they also expected the result of the fact-finding mission to be “biased” as the group only focused on their own version of the supposed massacre in Sition Bonlangon of Barangay Ned last Dec. 3.
She maintained that the incident was a legitimate encounter between suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels and troops from the Army’s 33rd and 27th Infantry Battalions.
Two Army troopers and nine alleged NPA members, including tribal leader Victor Danyan, were killed in the alleged encounter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026146
Authorities held for questioning on Thursday five foreign activists who participated in a fact-finding mission of the alleged massacre by government troops last December of nine lumads or tribal residents in a remote village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato.
South Cotabago Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes said the foreigners were stopped by police operatives at past 8 a.m. at a checkpoint in Barangay Palian in Tupi, South Cotabato due to the lack of identification and travel documents.
Citing a report from South Cotabato police director, Sr. Supt. Nestor Salcedo, she said the group came from Lake Sebu and was en route to this city aboard a truck.
The governor said the foreigners also claimed to be journalists but their affiliations were not immediately known.
“Some of them were not able to present identification cards and passports so they were brought to the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration,” she said in an interview over radio station Bombo Radyo in Koronadal City.
Sources from the local chapters of militant groups Baagong Alyansang Makabayan and Karapatan said the foreigners were from the United States and Zimbabwe, and came to the area for the fact-finding mission.
The group was supposed to present their findings in a press conference here scheduled at 10 a.m.
The foreign activists, who reportedly included members of the Gabriela Network USA, were identified as Julie Jamora, Dina Anderson, Jamy Drapeza, Adam Shaw and Tawanda Chandiwana.
Arlyn Perez, coordinator of Kalumahin Federation of Indigenous People, denounced the holding of the foreign nationals and blamed it on alleged connivance between the military and provincial officials.
But Fuentes debunked such claim and said that police authorities were “just doing their jobs.”
She clarified that the group would not have been held by authorities if they had proper identification and travel documents.
The governor said police were mandated to verify the identities of visiting foreign nationals when necessary, especially for security purposes.
Fuentes said they also expected the result of the fact-finding mission to be “biased” as the group only focused on their own version of the supposed massacre in Sition Bonlangon of Barangay Ned last Dec. 3.
She maintained that the incident was a legitimate encounter between suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels and troops from the Army’s 33rd and 27th Infantry Battalions.
Two Army troopers and nine alleged NPA members, including tribal leader Victor Danyan, were killed in the alleged encounter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026146
Manhunt launched vs killers of Maguindanao town councilor
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 22): Manhunt launched vs killers of Maguindanao town councilor
Police and military authorities here have launched a massive manhunt against two gunmen who shot dead a town councilor Wednesday morning.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said elements of the 57th Infantry Battalion have been providing manpower and resources to the Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipal Police Office in hunting down the killers of Councilor Sahabudin Namli, 42, of Barangay Madia here.
Namli was ambushed by armed men at around 10:45 a.m. Wednesday along the national highway. He succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Police Officer 1 Samsudin Nano, Datu Saudi police investigator on case, said Namli expired at past 11 a.m. while undergoing treatment at the hospital.
Nano said the victim was walking from his house toward the highway in Madia when two masked men, one armed with cal. 45 pistol and the other with M16 rifle, opened fire.
“The suspects waited for the town official to reach the highway and shot him at close range,” Nano said of Namli whose house is only some 10 meters away from the Datu Saudi-Datu Piang highway.
The suspects fled on foot. Nano said a manhunt has been launched.
Initial investigation also showed that the gunmen belonged to an armed group under a certain Commander Haon. It was not clear what group Haon belonged.
Namli is a relative of Ustadz Wahid Tundok, commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 118th Base Command.
Nano said the relatives of the slain town official were angry and fired their guns on air.
“They were very mad, apparently they knew the perpetrators,” he added.
Government forces stationed along the Datu Saudi- Datu Piang areas Maguindanao highway have been alerted following the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026083
Police and military authorities here have launched a massive manhunt against two gunmen who shot dead a town councilor Wednesday morning.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said elements of the 57th Infantry Battalion have been providing manpower and resources to the Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipal Police Office in hunting down the killers of Councilor Sahabudin Namli, 42, of Barangay Madia here.
Namli was ambushed by armed men at around 10:45 a.m. Wednesday along the national highway. He succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body.
Police Officer 1 Samsudin Nano, Datu Saudi police investigator on case, said Namli expired at past 11 a.m. while undergoing treatment at the hospital.
Nano said the victim was walking from his house toward the highway in Madia when two masked men, one armed with cal. 45 pistol and the other with M16 rifle, opened fire.
“The suspects waited for the town official to reach the highway and shot him at close range,” Nano said of Namli whose house is only some 10 meters away from the Datu Saudi-Datu Piang highway.
The suspects fled on foot. Nano said a manhunt has been launched.
Initial investigation also showed that the gunmen belonged to an armed group under a certain Commander Haon. It was not clear what group Haon belonged.
Namli is a relative of Ustadz Wahid Tundok, commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 118th Base Command.
Nano said the relatives of the slain town official were angry and fired their guns on air.
“They were very mad, apparently they knew the perpetrators,” he added.
Government forces stationed along the Datu Saudi- Datu Piang areas Maguindanao highway have been alerted following the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026083
DWDD: NEW AFP SPOKESPERSON | BGen Bienvenido Datuin
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): NEW AFP SPOKESPERSON | BGen Bienvenido Datuin
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – BGen Bienvenido Datuin assumes the role of spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This after Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo announced that he is turning over the role to BGen Datuin starting February 20, since he will be working full time as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations (J7).
Colonel Arevalo previously served as Chief, AFP Public Affairs Office and recently as AFP Spokesman. He thanked all media friends and stakeholders for their support and cooperation.
“Good Morning, Friends. I have, on 20 Feb2018, turned over the
position of AFP Spokesman to BGen Bien Datuin. He is the
Commander of the Civil Relations Service AFP. Starting today,
I will be full time Asst. DCS for CMO, J7. Thank you very much
for your support and cooperation. Its been an honor, a pleasure
and a privilege working with you as Chief, AFPPAO and recently
as AFP Spokesman.” – Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo
BGen Datuin is the Commander, Civil Relations Service AFP. He was also a noted field commander, known for his leadership that bolstered peace and development in the Davao Oriental highlighting the role of strengthened partnership and collaboration during his stint. He implemented several significant initiatives which include the first-ever Bayanihan Investment Protection and Security Operations (BIPSO) in the province and the establishment of the Ugnayan Center which served as a debriefing and holding area for former rebels before admitted to the halfway house called Happy Home. AES
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/new-afp-spokesperson-bgen-bienvenido-datuin/
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – BGen Bienvenido Datuin assumes the role of spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This after Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo announced that he is turning over the role to BGen Datuin starting February 20, since he will be working full time as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations (J7).
Colonel Arevalo previously served as Chief, AFP Public Affairs Office and recently as AFP Spokesman. He thanked all media friends and stakeholders for their support and cooperation.
“Good Morning, Friends. I have, on 20 Feb2018, turned over the
position of AFP Spokesman to BGen Bien Datuin. He is the
Commander of the Civil Relations Service AFP. Starting today,
I will be full time Asst. DCS for CMO, J7. Thank you very much
for your support and cooperation. Its been an honor, a pleasure
and a privilege working with you as Chief, AFPPAO and recently
as AFP Spokesman.” – Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo
BGen Datuin is the Commander, Civil Relations Service AFP. He was also a noted field commander, known for his leadership that bolstered peace and development in the Davao Oriental highlighting the role of strengthened partnership and collaboration during his stint. He implemented several significant initiatives which include the first-ever Bayanihan Investment Protection and Security Operations (BIPSO) in the province and the establishment of the Ugnayan Center which served as a debriefing and holding area for former rebels before admitted to the halfway house called Happy Home. AES
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/new-afp-spokesperson-bgen-bienvenido-datuin/
DWDD: CONSCIENCE PREVAILED | 2 NPA resist unlawful order, Surrenders in Saranggani
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): CONSCIENCE PREVAILED | 2 NPA resist unlawful order, Surrenders in Saranggani
CAMP BGEN AGAAB, Malungon, Sarangani (DWDD) – Two NPA terrorists who belongs to Guerrilla Front 71, FSMR, surrender along with their firearms to the troops of 73rd Infantry “Neutralizer” Battalion in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province on Saturday afternoon February 17, 2018.
Dondon Tumbo @JOSHUA, 19 years old, single, resident of Sitio lower kilotong, Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province and Martin Mangayog @MARGAS, 40 years old, resident of Sitio Akbual, Barangay Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province surrender along with their M16 and AK47 rifles to the troops of 73rd IB.
“Ni surrender ko kay dili naman gud sakto ang ilang sugo sa amoa, labi na ang pang harass sa amoang ka uban nga Lumad sa barangay.” I surrender because of the unlawful orders to us, that is to harass our fellow Lumads in the community, @JOSHUA said.
“Tiguang na ko ug kapoy na jud sigeg tago tago sa bukid kay ang mga tropa nag sigeg operate.” I’m old and tired of hiding in the jungle because of the intensive military operation, @Margas said.
It can be recalled that last February 15, 2018 three NPA terrorists who also belongs to Guerrilla Front 71, FSMR, surrender along with their two M16 rifles and one AK47 rifle to the troops of 73rd IB in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province.
“We continue to intensify our security operations, Community Support Programs (CSP), information gatherings and collaboration to our stakeholders to thwart the atrocities planned by the NPA terrorist.” Lt Col Marion Angcao 73IB commander said.
The former rebels will be presented to the LGU of Sarangani for immediate assistance and subsequently enrol them to the CLIP (Comprehensive Local Integration Program).
They will be provided a livelihood assistance and they will also receive additional cash assistance for their surrendered firearms that will help them to start a new and peaceful life.
“With the active participation of our LGU’s and stakeholders in our campaign in maintaining peace in our area of operation, we will be expecting more NPA terrorist to go back to the folds of law along with their firearms, while for those NPA’s who will remain loyal to their terroristic ideology will be dealt with accordingly.” Colonel Roberto Ancan 1002nd Brigade Commander said.
The brigade will continue to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility. 73IB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/conscience-prevailed-2-npa-resist-unlawful-order-surrenders-in-saranggani/
CAMP BGEN AGAAB, Malungon, Sarangani (DWDD) – Two NPA terrorists who belongs to Guerrilla Front 71, FSMR, surrender along with their firearms to the troops of 73rd Infantry “Neutralizer” Battalion in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province on Saturday afternoon February 17, 2018.
Dondon Tumbo @JOSHUA, 19 years old, single, resident of Sitio lower kilotong, Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province and Martin Mangayog @MARGAS, 40 years old, resident of Sitio Akbual, Barangay Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province surrender along with their M16 and AK47 rifles to the troops of 73rd IB.
“Ni surrender ko kay dili naman gud sakto ang ilang sugo sa amoa, labi na ang pang harass sa amoang ka uban nga Lumad sa barangay.” I surrender because of the unlawful orders to us, that is to harass our fellow Lumads in the community, @JOSHUA said.
“Tiguang na ko ug kapoy na jud sigeg tago tago sa bukid kay ang mga tropa nag sigeg operate.” I’m old and tired of hiding in the jungle because of the intensive military operation, @Margas said.
It can be recalled that last February 15, 2018 three NPA terrorists who also belongs to Guerrilla Front 71, FSMR, surrender along with their two M16 rifles and one AK47 rifle to the troops of 73rd IB in Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province.
“We continue to intensify our security operations, Community Support Programs (CSP), information gatherings and collaboration to our stakeholders to thwart the atrocities planned by the NPA terrorist.” Lt Col Marion Angcao 73IB commander said.
The former rebels will be presented to the LGU of Sarangani for immediate assistance and subsequently enrol them to the CLIP (Comprehensive Local Integration Program).
They will be provided a livelihood assistance and they will also receive additional cash assistance for their surrendered firearms that will help them to start a new and peaceful life.
“With the active participation of our LGU’s and stakeholders in our campaign in maintaining peace in our area of operation, we will be expecting more NPA terrorist to go back to the folds of law along with their firearms, while for those NPA’s who will remain loyal to their terroristic ideology will be dealt with accordingly.” Colonel Roberto Ancan 1002nd Brigade Commander said.
The brigade will continue to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility. 73IB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/conscience-prevailed-2-npa-resist-unlawful-order-surrenders-in-saranggani/
DWDD: RECOGNIZED | Former 6CRG Commander Honored
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): RECOGNIZED | Former 6CRG Commander Honored
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – Western Command Commander, Lt Gen Rozzano D Briguez AFP awards the Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel Otto Thomas AM Pacia, PAF (GSC).
WESCOM acknowledges the honorable and valuable service rendered by the awardee as a member of #TeamWESCOM and Group Commander, 6th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service, AFP from 16 January 2016 to 26 January 2018, held at Headquarters WESCOM during the Flag Raising Ceremony today.
Also a Plaque of Recognition, “The Palawan Paddle”, is presented to Col Pacia as a symbol of unfaltering strength and unwavering determination in assisting the Commander WESCOM for the implementation of AFP DSSP “Kapayapaan”. WESCOM /MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/recognized-former-6crg-commander-honored/
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – Western Command Commander, Lt Gen Rozzano D Briguez AFP awards the Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel Otto Thomas AM Pacia, PAF (GSC).
WESCOM acknowledges the honorable and valuable service rendered by the awardee as a member of #TeamWESCOM and Group Commander, 6th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service, AFP from 16 January 2016 to 26 January 2018, held at Headquarters WESCOM during the Flag Raising Ceremony today.
Also a Plaque of Recognition, “The Palawan Paddle”, is presented to Col Pacia as a symbol of unfaltering strength and unwavering determination in assisting the Commander WESCOM for the implementation of AFP DSSP “Kapayapaan”. WESCOM /MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/recognized-former-6crg-commander-honored/
RECOGNIZED | Marines guarding KIG Honored
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): RECOGNIZED | Marines guarding KIG Honored
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – Western Command (WESCOM) welcomes members of the Philippine Marines who had defended and guarded our national interests and patrimony in the Kalayaan Island Group, West Philippine Sea.
They were honored with the Military Merit Medal and Kalayaan Island Group Campaign Medal and Ribbon in a simple awarding ceremony in front of the WESCOM Headquarters Building in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan. WESCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/recognized-marines-guarding-kig-honored/
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – Western Command (WESCOM) welcomes members of the Philippine Marines who had defended and guarded our national interests and patrimony in the Kalayaan Island Group, West Philippine Sea.
They were honored with the Military Merit Medal and Kalayaan Island Group Campaign Medal and Ribbon in a simple awarding ceremony in front of the WESCOM Headquarters Building in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan. WESCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/recognized-marines-guarding-kig-honored/
DWDD: INTENSIFIED OPERATIONS | 3 ASG, 7 CommunistsTerrorists Surrender to WestMinCom
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): INTENSIFIED OPERATIONS | 3 ASG, 7 CommunistsTerrorists Surrender to WestMinCom
ZAMBOANGA (DWDD) – Three Abu Sayyaf members and seven Communist-NPA-Terrorists laid down their arms in the midst of the sustained operations in Western Mindanao.
Karim Abubakar, Jimboy Abubakar Aldam, and Imran Arajan Abdulajidz, members of the Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri, yielded to the troops of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, Special Forces Regiment-Airborne, Special Operations Command in Barangay Banah, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan at 4:45pm of February 13.
The trio surrendered an M16A1 rifle, a Garand rifle, and other war materiel.
Brigadier General Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, said the returnees were brought to the headquarters of the 4SFBn in Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City, Basilan for the custodial debriefing.
As of this report, the Western Mindanao Command has facilitated the surrender of 177 Abu Sayyaf members since 2017.
For this year alone, there are 19 Abu Sayyaf members who surrendered to the Joint Task Forces in the area of responsibility. Of this record, nine yielded to the military in Basilan, eight in Sulu, and two in Tawi-Tawi.
Meanwhile, seven Communist-NPA-Terrorists under a certain Mac-Mac surrendered to the military troops in Maguindanao last February 12.
The returnees were identified as Godus Sintaw, 36; Arnel Dimantukay, 21; Donie Diwan, 28; Ghagha Ansag, 25; Danilo Mingkay, 25; Larry Ugalingan, 34; and Jimmy Ulangkaya, 34.
Turned over by the surrenderees were a 7.62mm M14 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, a homemade M16 sniper rifle, a Springfield rifle, a Caliber .38 revolver, a hand grenade, and a landmine.
Major General Arnel Dela Vega, commander of the Joint Task Force Central, said that the returnees were also made to undergo custodial debriefing and medical checkup upon their surrender.
“We have them medically checked in order to make sure that none of them is ill. If ever there are medical conditions that need attention, we will automatically have these treated while they are under our care.”
Since January 1, 2017, troops have already facilitated the surrender of 146 communist terrorists in the WestMinCom’s joint area of operations.
From January this year to date, a total of 42 communist terrorists surrendered to the troops.
“We had been receiving and processing so much surrenders since last year up to the first quarter of this year,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command. “Most often, our units are the ones being contacted by those who wish to lay down their arms.”
“This development largely reflects our intensified operations against the ASG and the CNTs, not only on focused military operations but also on the Community Support Program being implemented by our troops in the entire command,” added LtGen Galvez, Jr.
“Our units are gaining a headway and have been effective in convincing these former rebels to change their lives and have a chance to be good citizens of the community.”
“Your WestMinCom will sustain its intensified operations against all the enemies of the state, and we will take all means necessary to put an end to this terror menace,” added the WestMinCom Chief. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/intensified-operations-3-asg-7-communiststerrorists-surrender-to-westmincom/
ZAMBOANGA (DWDD) – Three Abu Sayyaf members and seven Communist-NPA-Terrorists laid down their arms in the midst of the sustained operations in Western Mindanao.
Karim Abubakar, Jimboy Abubakar Aldam, and Imran Arajan Abdulajidz, members of the Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri, yielded to the troops of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, Special Forces Regiment-Airborne, Special Operations Command in Barangay Banah, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan at 4:45pm of February 13.
The trio surrendered an M16A1 rifle, a Garand rifle, and other war materiel.
Brigadier General Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, said the returnees were brought to the headquarters of the 4SFBn in Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City, Basilan for the custodial debriefing.
As of this report, the Western Mindanao Command has facilitated the surrender of 177 Abu Sayyaf members since 2017.
For this year alone, there are 19 Abu Sayyaf members who surrendered to the Joint Task Forces in the area of responsibility. Of this record, nine yielded to the military in Basilan, eight in Sulu, and two in Tawi-Tawi.
Meanwhile, seven Communist-NPA-Terrorists under a certain Mac-Mac surrendered to the military troops in Maguindanao last February 12.
The returnees were identified as Godus Sintaw, 36; Arnel Dimantukay, 21; Donie Diwan, 28; Ghagha Ansag, 25; Danilo Mingkay, 25; Larry Ugalingan, 34; and Jimmy Ulangkaya, 34.
Turned over by the surrenderees were a 7.62mm M14 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, a homemade M16 sniper rifle, a Springfield rifle, a Caliber .38 revolver, a hand grenade, and a landmine.
Major General Arnel Dela Vega, commander of the Joint Task Force Central, said that the returnees were also made to undergo custodial debriefing and medical checkup upon their surrender.
“We have them medically checked in order to make sure that none of them is ill. If ever there are medical conditions that need attention, we will automatically have these treated while they are under our care.”
Since January 1, 2017, troops have already facilitated the surrender of 146 communist terrorists in the WestMinCom’s joint area of operations.
From January this year to date, a total of 42 communist terrorists surrendered to the troops.
“We had been receiving and processing so much surrenders since last year up to the first quarter of this year,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command. “Most often, our units are the ones being contacted by those who wish to lay down their arms.”
“This development largely reflects our intensified operations against the ASG and the CNTs, not only on focused military operations but also on the Community Support Program being implemented by our troops in the entire command,” added LtGen Galvez, Jr.
“Our units are gaining a headway and have been effective in convincing these former rebels to change their lives and have a chance to be good citizens of the community.”
“Your WestMinCom will sustain its intensified operations against all the enemies of the state, and we will take all means necessary to put an end to this terror menace,” added the WestMinCom Chief. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/intensified-operations-3-asg-7-communiststerrorists-surrender-to-westmincom/
DWDD: SKILLS IMPROVEMENT | MBLT-11 conducts Close Quarter Battle training
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): SKILLS IMPROVEMENT | MBLT-11 conducts Close Quarter Battle training
ZAMBOANGA CITY (DWDD) – The Marine Battalion Landing Team – 11 (MBLT-11) under Lt Col Delos Reyes PN(M) conducted training on Close Quarter Battle (CQB) at Barangay. Muti, Zamboanga City. This training aimed to hone their urban combat skills and learn different techniques from the Marine Special Operation Group. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/skills-improvement-mblt-11-conducts-close-quarter-battle-training/
ZAMBOANGA CITY (DWDD) – The Marine Battalion Landing Team – 11 (MBLT-11) under Lt Col Delos Reyes PN(M) conducted training on Close Quarter Battle (CQB) at Barangay. Muti, Zamboanga City. This training aimed to hone their urban combat skills and learn different techniques from the Marine Special Operation Group. WESTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/skills-improvement-mblt-11-conducts-close-quarter-battle-training/
DWDD: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT | 9ID CMO Task Force Sagip conducts activity for Mayon evacuees
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT | 9ID CMO Task Force Sagip conducts activity for Mayon evacuees
GUINOBATAN, Albay (DWDD) – The Psycho-social Team of Civil Military Operations Task Group, Task Force Sagip, 9th Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army led by Captain Relly C Tapic (INF) PA conducted film showing activity and Educational fun games to more or less 350 evacuees of Barangay Masarawag, Guinobatan, Albay temporarily sheltered at Guinobatan West Central School on February 19, 2018. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/community-engagement-9id-cmo-task-force-sagip-conducts-activity-for-mayon-evacuees/
GUINOBATAN, Albay (DWDD) – The Psycho-social Team of Civil Military Operations Task Group, Task Force Sagip, 9th Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army led by Captain Relly C Tapic (INF) PA conducted film showing activity and Educational fun games to more or less 350 evacuees of Barangay Masarawag, Guinobatan, Albay temporarily sheltered at Guinobatan West Central School on February 19, 2018. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/community-engagement-9id-cmo-task-force-sagip-conducts-activity-for-mayon-evacuees/
DWDD: COMMDWDD: UNITY ENGAGEMENT | 9ID TF Sagip provides transport assistance for activity for Mayon evacuees
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 21): COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT | 9ID TF Sagip provides transport assistance for activity for Mayon evacuees
GUINOBATAN, Albay (DWDD) – Civil Military Operations Task Group of Task Force “Sagip”, 9th Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army, provided manpower and transportation assistance led by Cpl Demesa together with personnel from Maynilad Mobile Treatment Plant and Personnel from Municipality of Camalig, Daraga, Albay for refilling and consolidation of potable water at Camalig Mulipurpose Gymnasium, Camalig, Daraga, Albay on February 19, 2018. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/community-engagement-9id-tf-sagip-provides-transport-assistance-for-activity-for-mayon-evacuees/
GUINOBATAN, Albay (DWDD) – Civil Military Operations Task Group of Task Force “Sagip”, 9th Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army, provided manpower and transportation assistance led by Cpl Demesa together with personnel from Maynilad Mobile Treatment Plant and Personnel from Municipality of Camalig, Daraga, Albay for refilling and consolidation of potable water at Camalig Mulipurpose Gymnasium, Camalig, Daraga, Albay on February 19, 2018. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/21/community-engagement-9id-tf-sagip-provides-transport-assistance-for-activity-for-mayon-evacuees/
DWDD: FUTURE LEADERS | PMA Entrance Exam Set on August 19,2018
DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 22): FUTURE LEADERS | PMA Entrance Exam Set on August 19,2018
FORT GREGORIO DEL PILAR, Baguio City (DWDD)
The PMA Requirements for admission in the PMA are the following:
– Natural-born Filipino citizen
– Minimum 5 feet for both male and female
– Physically fit and of good moral character
– Single and has never been married
– Grade 11 students and below are not yet qualified to take the exam.
– High school graduate with 85% GPA
– Grade 12 Senior High School may take the exam provided that they graduate before April 01,2019 (K-12)
– 17 years old to 21 years old
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Duly accomplished application form. Download it here >> http://www.pma.ph/PMAEE%20APPLICATION%20FORM%202017.pdf
2. NSO Birth Certificate (Photocopy)
3. Original and photocopy of ANY of the following:
– Copy of your High School form 137
– Latest grade in High School if currently in Grade 12
– Certificate of Grades from last semester attended (for college students)
PMA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/22/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018/
FORT GREGORIO DEL PILAR, Baguio City (DWDD)
The PMA Requirements for admission in the PMA are the following:
– Natural-born Filipino citizen
– Minimum 5 feet for both male and female
– Physically fit and of good moral character
– Single and has never been married
– Grade 11 students and below are not yet qualified to take the exam.
– High school graduate with 85% GPA
– Grade 12 Senior High School may take the exam provided that they graduate before April 01,2019 (K-12)
– 17 years old to 21 years old
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Duly accomplished application form. Download it here >> http://www.pma.ph/PMAEE%20APPLICATION%20FORM%202017.pdf
2. NSO Birth Certificate (Photocopy)
3. Original and photocopy of ANY of the following:
– Copy of your High School form 137
– Latest grade in High School if currently in Grade 12
– Certificate of Grades from last semester attended (for college students)
PMA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/22/future-leaders-pma-entrance-exam-set-on-august-192018/
DWDD: ONE MESSAGE, MANY VOICES | WESCOM facilitates Inter-Agency Public Affairs Forum
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 22): ONE MESSAGE, MANY VOICES | WESCOM facilitates Inter-Agency Public Affairs Forum
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – The AFP Western Command facilitated the Inter-Agency Public Affairs Forum which was attended by the Operational Control / Operational Command Units, partner government and law enforcement agencies of the province held at Headquarters Western Command February 20, 2017.
Discussed during the forum were the objectives and significance of the forum as well as the accomplishments and future activities of every unit/agency that may be utilized for public information. WESCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/22/one-message-many-voices-wescom-facilitates-inter-agency-public-affairs-forum/
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – The AFP Western Command facilitated the Inter-Agency Public Affairs Forum which was attended by the Operational Control / Operational Command Units, partner government and law enforcement agencies of the province held at Headquarters Western Command February 20, 2017.
Discussed during the forum were the objectives and significance of the forum as well as the accomplishments and future activities of every unit/agency that may be utilized for public information. WESCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/02/22/one-message-many-voices-wescom-facilitates-inter-agency-public-affairs-forum/