Tuesday, March 13, 2018

PH looks to strengthened US ties with new State Secretary

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14): PH looks to strengthened US ties with new State Secretary



The Philippine government has congratulated Michael "Mike" Pompeo, director of the Central Intelligence Agency, on his designation as the new Secretary of State after Rex Tillerson was relieved from his duty as the United States' top diplomat.

"We look forward to working with him and further strengthening the special relationship between the Philippines and the United States," Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said in a statement.

"We are confident of more cooperation and collaboration with Washington with Secretary-designate Pompeo at the helm of the Department of State," he added.

During Tillerson's trip to Manila in August 2017, President Rodrigo R. Duterte welcomed him and presented himself as Washington's "humble friend in Southeast Asia."

Cayetano said Tillerson is a good friend of the Philippines and had played a "crucial role" in strengthening Manila's relations with Washington during his term as Secretary of State.

"We thank Secretary Tillerson for his friendship and the support he has extended to the Philippines and the Filipino people particularly during the period when our relations with the United States were facing challenges," he stressed.

"We pray for the best for Secretary Tillerson in all his future endeavors," he added.

According to reports, US President Donald Trump announced on Twitter Pompeo's designation as State Secretary.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028575

Army, Navy also acquiring unmanned aerial vehicles: DND chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14): Army, Navy also acquiring unmanned aerial vehicles: DND chief



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Ambassador to the Philippine Sung Kim lead the turnover of the six ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) acquired by the Philippine Air Force on Tuesday (March 13, 2018). (Photo courtesy: Eunice Samonte, PTV)

With the Philippine Air Force (PAF) now operating six ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced that both the Army and Navy are planning to acquire the same equipment.

He made this announcement during the turnover ceremonies for the six ScanEagle UAVs at the Villamor Air Base, Pasay City Tuesday.

"(With) the Air Force acquiring this long-range UAV with a loiter of about 12 hours or more, I think the Navy the is also acquiring their own UAVs. Later on the the Army will be also acquiring (their) tactical UAVs to support brigade or battalion-sized operations and these will be all integrated," Lorenzana added.

Also, the DND chief is hoping that the UAVs the Army and Navy are acquiring would be able to communicate with each other so that the military could cover and secure all parts of the country.

The UAVs were acquired through the US foreign military financing program (FMF) and were worth USD13.76 million.

"This collaboration is also an indication of the Philippines’ and the United States’ goodwill, deep friendship, and genuine commitment to peace. On behalf of the Republic of the Philippines, we profoundly desire to maintain our strong connection and camaraderie with the United States, as well as to expand common interests and handle differences with understanding and respect. Thank you and mabuhay," Lorenzana earlier said.

Also, the DND chief thanked the United States government for consistently helping the Philippines in purchasing weapons and defense equipment as well as in acquiring defense services and military training through the US FMF.

"It is through FMF that our acquisition of the ScanEagle UAV was made possible. This new asset has a state-of-the-art technology that makes it capable of conducting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; special services operations; escort operations; sea-lane and convoy protection; protection of high-value and secure installations; as well as high-speed wireless voice, video and data communications relay," Lorenzana pointed out.

And given its superb technical specifications, the DND chief said the newly-acquired equipment would certainly be vital to the capability readiness of the PAF especially in the conduct of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations in support to a variety of missions such as territorial defense, security and stability; humanitarian assistance and disaster response; and international defense and security engagement.

The Boeing Insitu ScanEagle is a small, long-endurance, low-altitude unmanned UAV built by Insitu, a subsidiary of Boeing, and is used for reconnaissance.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028584

Angara salutes Marines with bill strengthening elite military unit

From the Business Mirror (Mar 12): Angara salutes Marines with bill strengthening elite military unit

“The Philippine Marine Corps [Marines] might be few, but they remain proud and always faithful to their sworn honored duty to the country.”

Sen. Juan Edgardo M. Angara made this observation in the explanatory note of a bill he filed last Tuesday seeking to enhance the effectiveness of the Marine Corps as a formidable military unit against threats to the national security.

The measure, labeled “An Act establishing the Philippine Marine Corps, defining its power and functions, appropriating funds therefore, and for other purposes,” was hailed by his colleagues as a move in the right direction.
“Philippine history is replete with significant campaigns executed by the Philippine Marine Corps. During the 1960s the Marines spearheaded the conduct of strategic maneuvers against the Hukbalahap. In the following decade, the Marines were in most parts of Luzon neutralizing terrorists,” Angara noted.

“While in the 1980s the group skillfully maintained order despite the county’s political turmoil. The Marines also curtailed the lawlessness of extremist groups in Mindanao from 1990s to 2000s,” the lawmaker added.

“At present, the Philippine Marines Corps is not only challenged by growing criminality, but is also tested by worsening natural disasters that harm the people in the same manner.”

In filing Senate Bill (SB) 1731, Angara noted that while the Constitution mandates that there should be an Army, an Air Force and a Navy in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Marine Corps “remains an integral part of the nation’s psyche—a force in readiness.”

Angara also stressed that despite the lack of a charter, the Marine Corps has provided “seamless transition of power between sea and land domains.”

SB 1731, according to Angara, aims to provide an enabling law that would institutionalize the Marine Corps as a branch of service “distinct, autonomous, yet complementary to the Army, the Air Force and the Navy under the AFP,” in the process generating an initiative to guarantee peace, safety and order in the entire country.
Being archipelagic in nature, Angara said, there is a need for the country to have a comprehensive, but easily deployable amphibious force to conduct both seaborne and on-shore tactical operations to protect the national territories and the people.

Under the proposed law, the Marine Corps is seen as a highly competent military unit in responding to “extraordinary exigencies, and developing multinational cooperation and engagements to preserve peace and order in the country.”

“It is clear that the Marines will be empowered to further perform their duty with the proper legislation to provide such mandate.”

https://businessmirror.com.ph/angara-salutes-marines-with-bill-strengthening-elite-military-unit/

Why the Revival of the Philippines’ Air Force Exercise Matters

From The Diplomat (Mar 12): Why the Revival of the Philippines’ Air Force Exercise Matters

Manila is restarting drills that had been discontinued for nearly a quarter-century.

Why the Revival of the Philippines’ Air Force Exercise Matters

Image Credit: Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

Late last month, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) revived an air defense exercise that had been discontinued for over 20 years. Though the development is just one of a series of activities within the context of the PAF and the Philippine military more generally, its significance bears noting from both a historical and a contemporary perspective.

As I have noted before in these pages, the PAF, like the other services within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), has long suffered from a range of limitations and challenges (See: “Where is Philippines Air Force Modernization Under Duterte?”). That said, we have seen some inroads made over the past few years in terms of the modernization of the PAF, with the approval of new projects and the actual realization of some of them, such as the new FA-50 jets bought from South Korea. As this has occurred, we have seen the PAF undertake a series of new moves both domestically as well as in its ties with key regional partners.

An example in this respect at the domestic level is the recent revival of an old air defense exercise. The PAF had begun organizing air defense exercise Sanay Sibat back in the 1990s following the withdrawal of U.S. forces at Clark Air Base and the transfer of exercise Cope Thunder, an exercise sponsored by the Pacific Air Forces, to Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. But following the last iteration of the exercise in 1995, with F-5 Freedom Fighters and AS-211 aircraft, the exercises were discontinued.

Last month, nearly a quarter of a century later and with its own growing capabilities, the PAF finally moved forward with the revival of this old air defense training exercise. The three-day drills for Sanay Sibat were held over Central Luzon from February 26 to 28, with Clark Air Base in Pampanga as the staging area of the exercise.

Five scenarios were conducted for the exercise, including suppression of enemy air defense, tactical air intercept, and combat air patrol missions. Pilots were grouped into two opposing forces, with the 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing and Philippine Air Defense Control Center as the controlling agencies, and flew a total of 61 hours in 29 sorties utilizing FA-50PH and S-211 aircraft.

The revival of the PAF’s air defense exercise was covered in several Philippine media outlets, which noted its significance from a historical perspective. Beyond the symbolism itself, Philippine defense officials also no doubt value the drills as an opportunity to sharpen their skills as well as to identify potential gaps that need to be filled, of which there are many.

To be sure, one ought not to get too carried away with the revival of this exercise. This is just the first iteration following its revival, and it will take some regularization in order for the PAF to see its real benefits. The current plan, officials have said, is to hold the drills semi-annually. And though the PAF’s capabilities have improved in recent years, only getting its modernization carried out on schedule will equip it with the necessary equipment and expertise it needs to actually maximize the value of such engagements. As with many things in the context of Philippine military modernization, positive developments ought to be seen as a good first step in a still long road ahead.

https://thediplomat.com/2018/03/why-the-revival-of-the-philippines-air-force-exercise-matters/

How are PH-U.S. ties under Duterte? 'Terrific,' says envoy

From Rappler (Mar 13): How are PH-U.S. ties under Duterte? 'Terrific,' says envoy

 'This is really a strong partnership. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship for both countries,' says US ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim after turning over 6 ScanEagle reconnaissance drones to the Philippine Air Force

US ENVOY. Ambassador Sung Kim says he is confident about the prospects of US relations with the Philippines. File photo

US ENVOY. Ambassador Sung Kim says he is confident about the prospects of US relations with the Philippines. File photo

US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim on Tuesday, March 13, expressed confidence in the alliance of the United States with the Philippines even as the latter continues to forge closer ties with China. (READ: Carpio to Duterte, Cayetano: Protest China 'invasion')

“I think it’s terrific. I’ve been here about a year and 3 months now. I have enjoyed it tremendously. It’s a very busy place. I’ve learned during the past year and 3 months that this is really a strong partnership,” Kim said when asked about the state of the US' relationship with its oldest treaty ally in Asia.

“It’s a mutually beneficial relationship for both countries. America gains from being friends with the Philippines. I believe the Philippines also gains from being partners and allies with the US. I feel very confident about the state of our relationship and I believe that going forward, there are great opportunities for us to strengthen our relationship in a variety of ways,” Kim said.

US ambassador Sung Kim expresses confidence in alliance with the Philippines even as the country continues to forge closer ties with China @rapplerdotcom pic.twitter.com/VNWfCo1GTT— Carmela Fonbuena (@carmelafonbuena) March 13, 2018

Kim assumed his post in the wake of threats from President Rodrigo Duterte that he will scrap the 6-decade-old Mutual Defense Treaty with the US, and verbal attacks against then US President Barack Obama and Kim’s predecessor, former Ambassador Philip Goldberg.

Duterte's declared preference for China is a policy pivot from the former administration, which considered the neighboring superpower as the country’s biggest security threat for violating Philippine sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. (READ: Duterte: West PH Sea joint exploration with China like 'co-ownership')

Duterte hit it off with US President Donald Trump who, unlike Obama, has been silent on his drug war. The Philippine leader also took a friendlier stance towards Kim, in contrast to his treatment of Goldberg, whom he had berated in several public addresses for speaking up about his drug war. (READ: Duterte's pivot to China won't be easy for Americanized PH military)

Strong military ties

On Monday, Kim led the turn over of 6 ScanEagle reconnaissance drones to the Philippine Air Force (PAF), a $13.76-million (about P700 million*) grant that shows the strong defense cooperation of the two countries.

These reconnaissance drones are widely used in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) in the Middle East to identify and locate targets.

“The ScanEagle will significantly improve the AFP’s ability to detect terrorist activities, piracy activities, territory encroachments, so on all fronts, maritime domain security, counter-terrorism, HADR assets like these will be very, very useful,” said Kim.

Philippine Air Force spokesperson Major Aristides Galang said they may also be useful in limited maritime patrol. He focused on its capability to assess the extent of damage after disasters and calamities, and to locate victims and survivors.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, PH Air Force chief LtGen Kintanar, and US ambassador Sung Kim at Villamor Air Base for turnover of 6 ScanEagle UAVs @rapplerdotcom pic.twitter.com/eeOj8At8Rw— Carmela Fonbuena (@carmelafonbuena) March 13, 2018

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who was present at the turnover ceremony, also celebrated ties with the US.

“This collaboration is also an indication of the Philippines’ and the United States’ goodwill, deep friendship, and genuine commitment to peace. On behalf of the Republic of the Philippines, we profoundly desire to maintain our strong connection and camaraderie with the US, as well as to expand common interests and handle differences with understanding and respect,” Lorenzana said.

Kim cited "solid" ties in other areas of the bilateral relationship as well.

“The economic relationship between our two counties is also very, very strong. We have culture, sports, academic ties that are also very solid. I’m quite optimistic and confident about prospects of our relationship,” Kim said.
 

WestMinCom hosts joint patrols with Malaysia, Australia

From Rappler (Mar 13): WestMinCom hosts joint patrols with Malaysia, Australia

'This month’s air patrol is the second hosting of the TAP (trilateral air patrol) by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the sixth overall joint patrol' among the Philippines, Malaysia, and Australia, Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. says

HMAS LAUNCESTON. Members of the crew of Her Majesty's Australian Ship Launceston in front of their ship. Photo by Richard Falcatan

HMAS LAUNCESTON. Members of the crew of Her Majesty's Australian Ship Launceston in front of their ship. Photo by Richard Falcatan

Zamboanga City Air Force and Naval troops under the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) hosted air and maritime patrols with Malaysia and Australia on Monday, March 12.

As part of the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement (TCA), Lieutenant Colonel Acmad Omar of the Philippine Air Force led the trilateral air patrol (TAP) as head of the Combined Mission Patrol Team, with Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Hallara and Lieutenant Colonel Azman Aris of the Royal Malaysian Air Force serving as members, along with some support personnel.


Aboard Philippine Air Force’s C295 #129, the team departed at 10:00 am from the Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City and the patrol was conducted over the area of maritime interest.

“This month’s air patrol is the second hosting of the TAP by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the sixth overall joint patrol which is rotated among the 3 countries – Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Prior to their departure, members of the Combined Mission Patrol Team paid a courtesy call to Brigadier General Agusto Dela Peña, commander of the Tactical Operating Wing.

The trilateral air patrols of the TCA were scheduled on March 12 and 23, 2018.

An observer from Malaysia joined the air patrol on March 12.

“The WestMinCom, through the Joint Task Force IndoMalPhi, Naval Forces Western Mindanao, and Tactical Operation Wing Western Mindanao, will continue to support the implementation of the various activities and patrols under the trilateral agreement,” added Galvez.

The Naval Forces of Western Mindanao provided line handers and picket boat with NAVSOU seal while the Marine Battalion Landing Team-11 provided a squad for port security upon the arrival of Her Majesty’s Australian Ship (HMAS) Broome, HMAS Launceston, and Philippine Ship 38 at Zamboanga City Pier at 8:00 am.

By 8:30 am, Rear Admiral Rene Medina received the staff of the Joint Task Group 629 and the Australian Embassy, headed by Matt Kimberley, during their courtesy call at the naval headquarters.

Earlier, PS38 conducted a Meeting Procedure for Entering Harbor with HMAS Broome and HMAS Launceston at 3.8 nautical miles southeast of Tictauan Island and guided them to Zamboanga City Pier.

The opening ceremony of the 2nd Combined Philippine Navy-Royal Australian Navy Maritime Security Engagement took place at the NFWM Officers’ Club at 11:00 am.

A coordinating conference followed at the Officers Clubhouse of HNFWM commenced.

PS38 left Zamboanga City Pier bound for Tawi-Tawi to participate in the MSE at the Naval Task Group Tawi-Tawi area of operations at 4:00 pm. HMAS Broome and HMAS Launceston followed soon after, bound for Tawi-Tawi to participate in the same exercise.

“Our command will continue to support joint exercises among units and agencies within the joint area of operations in order to strengthen our security measures,” said LtGen Galvez.

“It is important that we prepare for future eventualities by strengthening our ties with allies. Establishing interoperability measures are also very vital in guarding our territorial borders.”

“We will maximize learning and our soldiers will continue to train and improve through these joint activities,” added the WestMinCom chief.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/198084-westmincom-joint-patrols-malaysia-australia-philippines

Army monitors resurgence of NPA sparrow unit in Panay

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): Army monitors resurgence of NPA sparrow unit in Panay

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) is currently monitoring if there is a resurgence of the Sparrow Unit of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay island.

Brig. Gen. Dinoh Dolina of the 3ID said that although there is currently “no strong indication” of resurgence of sparrow unit here, they wanted to check if there is such a revival of the group in far-flung areas.


“They are doing it to those helpless civilians,” he said in a media interview on Monday.

Dolina said that the new battalion, 94th Infantry Battalion (IB), is undergoing organization training and is expected to start operating this June.

He assured that the new battalion will be based in Panay island.

“We will base them to where the enemy is, where they are concentrating their forces,” he said.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte has warned soldiers and policemen against the resurgence of NPA’s sparrow units in their localities.

The sparrow units are the hitmen of the NPA in urban areas with primary mission to kill lawmen and government officials.

The resurgence came after the NPA hierarchy has ordered to intensify its attacks on government forces in the country after President Duterte canceled the peace talks with the group.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028347

6 more NPA rebels surrender in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): 6 more NPA rebels surrender in Sultan Kudarat



A soldier of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion shares light moment with residents within the command's area of jurisdiction to help them win the war against communist guerrillas. (Photo courtesy: 33rd Infantry Battalion)

NINOY AQUINO, Sultan Kudarat -- Six more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered brought about by pressures of relentless offensive by government troops in this province, the military reported Tuesday.

The surrender of the six brought the total number of NPA rebels who yielded to the government since January 1 to 55. This is on top of the 108 who surrendered last year.

Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion commander, identified the NPA surrenderees as the following: Ansik Etang, 38; Enggong Timbangan, 36; Pobre Sikalan, 32; Alfon Dayang Oding, 25; Mariano Dayang Oding, 32; and, Sario Dawang Oding, 29.


Cabunoc said they belong to the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73 and all residents of Sitio Pegsagalan, Barangay Bagras in the nearby town of Palimbang.

Cabunoc said the NPA surrenderees, who belong to the Manobo Dulangan tribe, surrendered on Monday to the troops of the battalion’s Alpha Company led by SSgt. Ruel Hamboy at sitio Limangga, Barangay Midtungok, this town.

He said they turned over a 12-gauge shotgun, a Thompson caliber 9-mm rifle, a caliber .356 revolver and a caliber .38 revolver.

He presented them on Tuesday to Mayor Randy Ecija of this municipality.

He said they would be assessed for possible inclusion to the local government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) that provides livelihood assistance to former rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028415

25 loose firearms surrendered in Maguindanao town

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): 25 loose firearms surrendered in Maguindanao town



Mayor Zamzamin Ampatuan of Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao on Monday hands over a caliber .30 machine gun to Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, Army's 601st Infantry Brigade commander, during the turnover ceremonies of loose firearms the local government collected from the residents. (Photo courtesy: 601st Infantry Brigade)

RAJAH BUAYAN, Maguindanao -- The number of civilians yielding unlicensed firearms is increasing with the intervention of more local government executives in this province, officials said Tuesday.

On Monday, Mayor Zamzamin Ampatuan of this town turned over 25 loose firearms to Brig. Gen. Diosdao Carreon, Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade comamnder, in a ceremony held at the town’s gymnasium.

Ampatuan said the high-powered firearms were collected from residents through the municipal government's “Balik Baril Program” launched in support to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division disarmament program.


Ampatuan said his town is enjoying relative peace as the program is gaining headway.

The high-powered firearms turned over on Monday included the following: caliber .30 machinegun; 60-mm mortar; Ultimax assault rifles; M-16 Armalite rifles; M-14 rifles; M-79 grenade launchers; and, caliber .50 Barret sniper rifle.

“We have to continue this turning over of loose firearms. We should not wait for the full force of the law to get us. Let us surrender the unlicensed firearms. This will be good for all of us. Let us think on how to live peacefully,” Ampatuan said during the program even as he lauded those who heeded the calls to yield their “prized possessions.”

Owning a gun is a common practice in Moro populated areas to protect the family from enemies and lawless elements.

Ampatuan encouraged every residents of this town who still possess unlicensed firearms to “use your brains, return your loose firearms and we will give you coconut seedlings.”

Carreon also lauded the resident’s response to the “Balik Baril program” of the local government.

“You made the right decision, those who returned their firearms are the law abiding citizens. You may possess it but you cannot bring it out. During Martial Law, licenses to carry guns are suspended. Studies show that the root cause of violence in this area is because of so much loose firearms,” Carreon said.

Carreon explained that the campaign against loose firearms in this province is a two-pronged approach--convince to surrender and law enforcement.

“At the end of the day, we still reach out to all the armed groups here. The effort to convince them to peacefully surrender is still there. However, we have to enforce the law. There is an effort against terrorism and we have to do it,” Carreon said.

“For the meantime, we still have to do this gathering of loose firearms or any other peaceful means in order to keep the peace in the area. But if there is a need to fight, then we have to operate as such,” Carreon added.

More than 1,000 loose firearms have been collected by the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) through the Task Force Central’s and localized “Balik Baril Program” of the local government units.

In a recent provincial peace and order council meeting here, Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, 6th ID chief, has urged all local chief executives to help them in the campaign against loose firearms.

“Let us remember that Martial Law is in effect and the Army will strictly enforce it especially if people will insist on possessing and carrying unauthorized guns. Let us emulate what the other mayors have done,” Dela Vega told local officials, referring to other town mayors who earlier turnedover unlicensed guns.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028493

Military, cops clash vs. remnants of Reds terrorist in Batangas

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): Military, cops clash vs. remnants of Reds terrorist in Batangas



CAMP GEN. MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Joint military and police forces continue to engage remaining New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in series of armed encounters in Balayan, Batangas which started Saturday morning.

In a report reaching this camp on Monday, Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos Jr. commander of the 202nd Infantry (UNIFIER) Brigade of the Philippine Army 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID), said the pursuit operations remained .


Government forces reported that two soldiers were slightly wounded during Saturday clash and are now in stable condition after receiving appropriate medical attention while casualties from the NPA terrorists are still being validated.

The 202nd Infantry (UNIFIER) Brigage commander said they have reliable information indicating that there are still remaining terrorist elements of the NPAs in the area.

Burgos, who is supervising the operations said they were remnants of the NPA Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4C, which lost 15 fighters and 13 firearms during an armed encounter with government troops in Nasugbu, Batangas last Nov. 28, 2017.”

He said the troops were conducting the combat operations on Saturday morning when they clashed with the NPAs at Sitio Kapihan, Barangay Patugo in Nasugbu, Batangas.

He said the first exchange of gunfire erupted around 8:30 a.m. and lasted for almost 30 minutes, sending the enemies of the state to scamper to different directions, apparently wounding the NPA remnants as indicated in the bloodstains at the battlezone.

In an ensuing firefight around 9:12 a.m. also on Saturday, the fleeing enemies were blocked by another group of soldiers conducting combat operations in Sitio Sahing in the same barangay.

Reports from the encounter site by government troops disclosed that about 30 NPAs engaged government troops in almost an hour of firefight.


According to the 730th Combat Group of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) as one of the units under the operational supervision of the brigade, the NPAs in Balayan, Batangas area are consolidating for a tactical offensive strategically to project relevance in Batangas prior to the NPA anniversary on March 29.

Both AFP and PNP forces are now continuing their pursuit operations against the withdrawing terrorists as checkpoints are also heightened and expanded in the area.

"These actions will send a message to the enemies-of-the-state that their terrorist activities against the people are futile," said Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 2ID.

Parayno also said that the NPA terrorists are given the opportunity to surrender because as he said “although we do not rejoice in killing our fellow Filipinos, we are duty bound to take calculated and internationally accepted military actions."

The military expressed gratitude to the commitment and support of the Batangas Alliance on Internal Security Operation (BAISO) and Cavite Alliance on ISO (CAISO).

Government forces particularly praised efforts and the unwavering assistance of the Local Chief Executives (LCEs) on the AFP's continuing campaign against the NPA terrorists.

The BAISO and CAISO are the local government unit (LGUs) alliances initiated by their local government leaders in Batangas and Cavite that provide a venue to discuss the local security threats that hinder peace and development in the area.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028267

Troops recover 4 kidnapped timber cutters in Zamboanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): Troops recover 4 kidnapped timber cutters in Zamboanga



Government troops safely recovered the four timber cutters seized earlier this month by kidnap-for-ransom-group (KFRG) in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte, the military reported Tuesday.

Recovered were: Roger Jung-an; Jomar Maglangit; Jomar Mantangan; and, Raymond Purisima who were held captive for nine days in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte.

They were abandoned by their disoriented captors at around 3 p.m. Monday in Barangay Libucon, Sirawai after soldiers and policemen had been relentlessly pursuing them since they seized the victims.
“The kidnappers under a certain Jamilon Wahab panicked aside from becoming weary with the ongoing pursuit operations and left the victims before they fled,” Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, said.


Mahari Abdulla, Libucon barangay chair, who initially assisted the victims, called Sirawai Mayor Gamar Janihim, who in turn handed them over to the Army’s 42nd Infantry Battalion.

The victims, all employees of Tata Subebe, were all residents of Barangay San Nicolas, Sirawai.

The KFRG seized them on March 3 in Barangay Panabutan, Sirawai when they were on the way to cut timbers.

Janihim said the kidnappers were also led by Bating Luninguis aside from Wahab, whose group operates in the hinterlands of Sirawai and in nearby areas.

“They were originally five when they were kidnapped however, one of them was hit in the crossfire during an encounter between our soldiers and their captors last March 7,” Murillo said.

The other victim, Mario Rosales alias Mario Ungok, 46 was killed in the crossfire when policemen and soldiers enaged in a 10-minute firefight with the kidnappers on March 7 at sitio Kabatunayan, Barangay Panabutan, Sirawai.

The rescued kidnap victims immediately underwent medical check-up while military intelligence operatives and police investigators conducted debriefing.

“Our troops and our policemen are still tracking the kidnappers as of this report,” Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command chief, said.

“Let this be a warning to anyone or any group who is planning to engage in any criminal activities. We will fix you and we will eventually get you,” Galvez added as he congratulated Murillo, his men and the policemen of Zamboanga del Norte Province for the accomplishment.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028513

The heroism and sacrifice of Gen. Fortunato Abat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): The heroism and sacrifice of Gen. Fortunato Abat
Heroism and sacrifice.

These two words aptly describe the late Defense Secretary and retired Gen. Fortunato U. Abat, who passed away at the Veterans Medical Center in Quezon City last March 6 at the age of 92.

Abat will be buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City with full military honors on Tuesday noon, according to the Department of National Defense headed by Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana through the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office under Undersectary Ernesto G. Carolina.

During World War II, Abat evaded from being recruited by the Japanese in a daring escape upon learning he was to be brought to Japan for training as an aircraft mechanic.

This writer had the rare opportunity to interview Abat when he was still alive. It was during this interview for my book, “Victory at Bessang Pass,” that Abat related his story as a young guerrilla fighter, his combat experience during the Korean War, and his memoirs during the Mindanao War in the ‘70s and ‘80s against the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

He was commanding general of the Central Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines when heavy fighting broke out in Mindanao in 1974.

The MNLF practically captured the whole of Central Mindanao, except the strategic PC Hill and the airport in Cotabato City.

But despite being surrounded and outnumbered, Abat courageously led his troops in defending the two strategic areas and held on until reinforcement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters in Manila and other areas arrived.

Through strategic planning of a counter-offensive, the military eventually recaptured areas that fell into MNLF hands.

Abat later wrote a book entitled “The Day We Almost Lost Mindanao” where he chronicled the fierce fighting between government forces and MNLF rebels.

Later, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos appointed Abat as commanding general of the Philippine Army until he retired with the rank of major general.

As a soldier, Abat was a recipient of many awards for gallantry.

During World War II, Abat said he and other young Filipinos were billeted in Japanese barracks when he escaped when he was given a one day furlough with his family and joined the guerrilla forces.

He was assigned with the 14th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFI-NL).

“I could not forget the date of my enlistment, April 15, 1944, with the rank of Pivate, with Serial No. 221283 in the Medical Company, 14th Infantry Regiment,” he said.

In an interview, Abat recalled his guerrilla days, particularly the famous “Battle of Kiangan Pocket” in Ifugao.. It was in this battle that Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita, who was dubbed as the “Tiger of Malaya,” surrendered to Filipino guerrillas .

Abat said it was the forces of Capt. Guillermo Nakar who stalked the Japanese forces after the fall of Bataan every now and then, employing the hit-and-run tactics. However, Nakar was captured and executed by the Japanese.

His replacement, Col. Manuel Enriquez was also executed after his capture.

But despite these setbacks, the Filipino guerrillas pressed their attacks on the Japanese until the Gen. Douglas McArthur landed in Leyte Gulf to fulfill his promise of “I shall return.”

Abat said the American submarines USS Stingray and USS Gar (206), landed in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and brought with them tons of weapons and food for the Filipino guerrillas.

“I was issued a Carbine rifle,” Abat said.

Fully armed to the teeth, the Filipino guerrillas engaged the Japanese in fierce fighting that continued for several weeks that forced Yamashita to surrender, Abat added.

Abat will long be remembered for his bravery in combat in defense of freedom and democracy. It was a display of heroism and sacrifice at the most crucial time the country needed most. May God bless his soul.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028265

PAF acquires 6 unmanned aerial vehicles

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): PAF acquires 6 unmanned aerial vehicles



SCANEAGLE UAV. The Boeing Insitu ScanEagle is a small, long-endurance, low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) built by Insitu, a subsidiary of Boeing, and is used for reconnaissance. (Photo courtesy: Leo Sarne, Radyo Pilipinas)

The reconnaissance and surveillance capability of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is expected to get a big boost with the formal turnover of six ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) Tuesday.

Maj. Aristides Galang, PAF spokesperson, said the UAVs were acquired from the United States through its foreign military financing program.

The six ScanEagle UAVs are worth USD13.76 million. The Boeing Insitu ScanEagle is a small, long-endurance, low-altitude unmanned UAV built by Insitu, a subsidiary of Boeing, and is used for reconnaissance.


Turnover ceremonies took place at the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing Hangar at the Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

The UAVs, which arrived last March 10, were formally presented by US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

Galang said the UAVs would greatly help the military in conducting air, ground, and naval operations as it is capable of missions in support of internal security, anti-terrorism, and limited maritime patrol aside from humanitarian assistance disaster relief operations.

Aside from these, the ScanEagles can also help in monitoring illegal logging and fishing activities and conduct of aerial survey.

The PAF spokesperson said that UAVs would be operated by their 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028425

UAV acquisition part of military modernization: Lorenzana

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): UAV acquisition part of military modernization: Lorenzana



The Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s acquisition of six brand-new ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is part of the military efforts to modernize in view of the many security threats being faced by the country.

"With a number of security issues confronting our country, there is a need to upgrade our nation’s armed forces and to establish a more credible defense. And this acquisition of ScanEagle UAV is one way to modernize the military to deter those who want to wage war against our country," Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.

The six ScanEagles were formally presented by US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim to the DND chief during short ceremonies at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City Tuesday morning.
The UAVs were acquired through the US foreign military financing program (FMF).

"This collaboration is also an indication of the Philippines’ and the United States’ goodwill, deep friendship, and genuine commitment to peace. On behalf of the Republic of the Philippines, we profoundly desire to maintain our strong connection and camaraderie with the United States, as well as to expand common interests and handle differences with understanding and respect. Thank you and mabuhay," Lorenzana added.

Also, the DND chief said that they are very grateful to the United States government for consistently helping the Philippines in purchasing weapons and defense equipment as well as in acquiring defense services and military training through the US FMF.

"It is through FMF that our acquisition of the ScanEagle UAV was made possible. This new asset has a state-of-the-art technology that makes it capable of conducting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; special services operations; escort operations; sea-lane and convoy protection; protection of high-value and secure installations; as well as high-speed wireless voice, video and data communications relay," Lorenzana pointed out.

Given its superb technical specifications, the DND chief said the newly acquired equipment would certainly be vital to the capability readiness of the PAF especially in the conduct of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations in support to a variety of missions such as territorial defense, security and stability; humanitarian assistance and disaster response; and international defense and security engagement.

The six ScanEagle UAVs are worth USD13.76 million. The Boeing Insitu ScanEagle is a small, long-endurance, low-altitude unmanned UAV built by Insitu, a subsidiary of Boeing, and is used for reconnaissance.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028436

DND: Unmanned aerial vehicles also useful in disaster relief missions

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): DND: Unmanned aerial vehicles also useful in disaster relief missions

Aside from their military functions, the six newly-acquired ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are useful in disaster relief efforts and mitigations.

This was stressed by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during the turnover ceremonies of the above-mentioned equipment in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City Tuesday.


"ScanEagle will be useful for disaster relief and management. Every year we have typhoons that devastate large tract of land in the countryside and example was the typhoon that hit Cagayan Valley in December or September of 2016, and the method of helping the people there are to assist the damage and it takes time, sometimes three months, six months even a year," he added.

With the ScanEagles now in the Air Force inventory, the DND chief said that the country has the assets to do assessment on typhoon damages immediately.

"Now with this equipment, all we can do is before the typhoon hits, have a mapping of the area, we have a photograph of the area and then take a photograph of the typhoons and I think we can assess the damage in maybe 24 hours or at least 48 hours, it will also fastrack the giving of aid to those devasted areas, (resident those) homes (were) destroyed, riceland destroyed," he added.

Lorenzana said the UAVs could also help the government, especially the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in mapping out aras that are being devastated by mine tailings.

"This will be very useful and I have been telling this to some of our, to the cabinet members that if we have this equipment then it will make the life of our local government to assess the damage of this area easy," the DND chief added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028459

BOC vows support to global campaign vs. IEDs

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): BOC vows support to global campaign vs. IEDs



The Bureau of Customs (BOC) expressed support to the global campaign against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) as it vowed to uphold national security and border protection.

“In the face of challenges and menace of terrorism, safeguarding our borders is a shared responsibility,” Customs Commssioner Isidro Lapeña said in his speech at the opening of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Sub-Regional Train-the-Trainers Workshop on Programme Global Shield (PGS) held in Pasay City Tuesday.

Participants from South East Asia and the Pacific composed of countries such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam will be joining the two-week-long workshop at MIDAS Hotel.

Also present are officials and representatives from the BOC, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Philippine National Police (PNP).

The PGS is among the international efforts of WCO designed to interdict illicit diversion and trafficking of chemical precursors, detonators and transmitting devices used by terrorists and other felonious organizations in manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The gathering aims to provide Customs officers the knowledge and skills in the detection and handling of precursor chemicals which is now commonly used by terrorist groups in manufacturing IEDs.

Likewise, the program is focused on promoting cooperation among customs and police administration against illegal trafficking and diversion of IEDs.

PGS resource trainers include WCO Assistant Project Manager for Security Program Juan Manuel Mancilla Lopez, including WCO accredited PGS trainer Chandra Prakash Goyal and PGS Technical Expert Estheshamul Hoque.

The workshop is co-hosted by BOC and sponsored by the Security Project Fund of Japan.

PGS continue to raise awareness of the emerging threat posed by IEDs across the globe.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028533

MILF to ConCom: Give Moro people a chance

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13): MILF to ConCom: Give Moro people a chance



Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) vice chairman Ghadzali Jaafar on Tuesday appealed to the Consultative Committee (ConCom) tasked to review the 1987 Constitution and to the “peace-loving” Filipinos to give Moro people a chance to achieve progress.

Jaafar, also chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), made this appeal as BTC presented the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to the Concom subcommittee on Bangsamoro.


“We must appeal to all of you and to all peace-loving Filipinos to give us the Moro, the Muslims, a chance so that [we can] at least catch up in terms of progress with our brothers in Luzon,” he told the panel.

He said Mindanao has been lagging behind Luzon “for more than 50 years.”

Jaafar said the passage of the BBL is “the most civilized and most peaceful way to resolve” the 50 years of war in Mindanao.

“If the BBL can be enacted, we can take care of ourselves,” the MILF official said, adding “BBL is a set of laws to govern the future of the Bangsamoro.”

“Bangsamoro is an answer to the legitimate demand of the Moro people to have a government of their own not separate from the Republic of the Philippines government,” Jaafar said.

Jaafar also called for the implementation of all the peace agreements reached between the Philppine government and the MILF.

In response, ConCom chairman and retired Chief Justice Reynato Puno suggested to the BTC to submit a BBL draft that is designed for the federal form of government under the proposed Charter change.

The BBL draft, which BTC submitted to the House of Representatives, is suited for the present unitary form of government.

Jaafar explained that the presented BBL draft is suited for the current form of government since “really we don’t know whether the move to a federal government will succeed.”

For his part, ConCom subcommittee on Bangsamoro vice chair Randolf Parcasio assured the BTC that the committee is preparing for scenarios that may arise if the BBL is passed first before the approval of the federal constitution.

“If the BBL is approved before a federal constitution, we have some preparation for that. That is why we urged you earlier to provide us certain suggestions,” Parcasio said.

BTC member Mohagher Iqbal said the passage of the BBL should come first since it was promised by no less than President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“It was the personal commitment of President Duterte during the election campaign,” he said.

Iqbal also said it is easier to pass BBL rather amend the Constitution to give way to federalism which is also being pushed by President Duterte.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1028565