From the Philippine News Agency (May 30): Duterte thanks PSG for service to nation
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday thanked the Presidential Security Group (PSG) for serving the nation by “courageously” standing behind him.
“Throughout this country ordeal, the Presidential Security Group has courageously stood behind me to secure the interest of our country,” Duterte said in his speech during the PSG Change of Command at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park.
“I stand confident before you today as I perform my duties as your Commander-in-Chief, assured that the PSG shall be loyal not only to one person or family, but only to the Constitution and our most cherished democratic institutions,” he added.
Duterte commended outgoing PSG Commander Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy for his “successful tour of duty”.
Under Dagoy’s able leadership, the PSG has effectively provided security to 16 foreign and more than 900 local Presidential engagements particularly last year when the Philippines hosted the 30th and 31st ASEAN Summits.
“General Dagoy, I wish you the best as you assume your new Command. I am certain that the PSG that you will hand over is a workforce that is more motivated and dependable,” Duterte said.
Duterte is hoping that the wielding and forging of the PSG’s growth towards global competency will continue under the leadership of new PSG Commander Col. Jose Eriel Niembra.
“With your credentials and background as the former Deputy Group Commander of the PSG, I trust that you will move forward in the right direction as you create your own mark in this command,” Duterte said.
During his speech, Duterte defended his decision to appoint more ex-military men to different government officials.
“To the credit of military men, I said, no offense intended. The military is structural and they are always conscious of accomplishments, fulfillment of duty. Not because of any particular loyalty, they work extra hard,” he said.
Duterte said the practice of appointing former military men did not come from him as it was also done during the time of former presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno Aquino III.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037005
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Next PH-China bilateral talks on WPS expected in Q3
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30): Next PH-China bilateral talks on WPS expected in Q3
Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana said the next meeting for the bilateral consultative mechanism (BCM) between China and the Philippines is expected on the 2nd half of the year.
"(There's) no date yet for the next BCM, but it will be sometime in the second half of the year. Likely August or September, but not yet set," he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday.
Sta. Romana did not elaborate specific subjects to be tackled, but assured there will be "more discussion of issues of concern to each side."
He added the two countries are expected to talk about possible progress report on results of panel study on oil the gas cooperation in the West Philppine Sea, as well as other areas of maritime cooperation such as in environment and fisheries.
In a meeting on Monday, the envoy discussed issues related to China and the West Philippine Sea with President Rodrigo R. Duterte, together with Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon.
Manila and Beijing held its second meeting for the BCM in February.
The mechanism, established in May 2017 is a venue for the two states to tackle all issues on the West Philippine Sea dispute.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037000
Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana said the next meeting for the bilateral consultative mechanism (BCM) between China and the Philippines is expected on the 2nd half of the year.
"(There's) no date yet for the next BCM, but it will be sometime in the second half of the year. Likely August or September, but not yet set," he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday.
Sta. Romana did not elaborate specific subjects to be tackled, but assured there will be "more discussion of issues of concern to each side."
He added the two countries are expected to talk about possible progress report on results of panel study on oil the gas cooperation in the West Philppine Sea, as well as other areas of maritime cooperation such as in environment and fisheries.
In a meeting on Monday, the envoy discussed issues related to China and the West Philippine Sea with President Rodrigo R. Duterte, together with Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon.
Manila and Beijing held its second meeting for the BCM in February.
The mechanism, established in May 2017 is a venue for the two states to tackle all issues on the West Philippine Sea dispute.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037000
Duterte to Joma : Don't worry about your safety
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30): Duterte to Joma : Don't worry about your safety
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday clarified his previous statement against Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison, saying "Aquino-style" assassination will not happen to him.
“There is no Aquino-style killing where I will shoot someone from behind,” Duterte said in his speech during the Presidential Security Group (PSG) Change of Command.
The President was apparently referring to former senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino who was shot in the back as he got out of the plane that brought him to the Philippines from the United States on Aug. 21, 1981.
Duterte had earlier threatened to kill Sison if the peace talks that the President wanted to be held in the Philippines fail.
The President said that what he wanted to say was “if it is not successful, then I will guarantee that he can go out of the country unhampered, unfettered, unbridled”.
“He does not have to worry about his safety. If you come home, do not worry about being killed. I will not do that,” Duterte said.
Duterte appealed anew to Sison to come home and discuss peace within a “small window of 60 days" the President has provided to the communist leader.
“I’m giving you my word of honor. It is my word and I would say, you go home, let’s talk earnestly, sincerely,” the President said.
Duterte, however, said he would not give way to Sison’s demand for a coalition government.
“As long as you do not ask a coalition government, which I cannot give and will never give, you can come home and talk to me and the others, and maybe in the fullness of God’s time we can achieve peace in our land,” he said.
The Commander-in-Chief said his invitation to Sison to come home was in line with his desire to achieve peace not only with communist rebels but with other groups.
“I was elected by the people not only by the military and the police, but all, including the Moro, also have this desire and confidence to talk to us about peace,” Duterte said.
“My job is not go to war. My job cannot be killing our own countrymen. My job, my task, my mandate is to give peace to everybody,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037007
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday clarified his previous statement against Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison, saying "Aquino-style" assassination will not happen to him.
“There is no Aquino-style killing where I will shoot someone from behind,” Duterte said in his speech during the Presidential Security Group (PSG) Change of Command.
The President was apparently referring to former senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino who was shot in the back as he got out of the plane that brought him to the Philippines from the United States on Aug. 21, 1981.
Duterte had earlier threatened to kill Sison if the peace talks that the President wanted to be held in the Philippines fail.
The President said that what he wanted to say was “if it is not successful, then I will guarantee that he can go out of the country unhampered, unfettered, unbridled”.
“He does not have to worry about his safety. If you come home, do not worry about being killed. I will not do that,” Duterte said.
Duterte appealed anew to Sison to come home and discuss peace within a “small window of 60 days" the President has provided to the communist leader.
“I’m giving you my word of honor. It is my word and I would say, you go home, let’s talk earnestly, sincerely,” the President said.
Duterte, however, said he would not give way to Sison’s demand for a coalition government.
“As long as you do not ask a coalition government, which I cannot give and will never give, you can come home and talk to me and the others, and maybe in the fullness of God’s time we can achieve peace in our land,” he said.
The Commander-in-Chief said his invitation to Sison to come home was in line with his desire to achieve peace not only with communist rebels but with other groups.
“I was elected by the people not only by the military and the police, but all, including the Moro, also have this desire and confidence to talk to us about peace,” Duterte said.
“My job is not go to war. My job cannot be killing our own countrymen. My job, my task, my mandate is to give peace to everybody,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037007
DND issues IRR for task force aiding reintegration of rebel returnees
From the Philippine News Agency (May 31): DND issues IRR for task force aiding reintegration of rebel returnees
The Department of National Defense (DND) has issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Task Force "Balik-Loob" (TFBL), the coordinating body tasked to centralize all government efforts for the reintegration of former communist rebels.
The seven-page IRR, which was released Tuesday (May 29), was signed by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, DILG Undersecretary Eduardo Año, Housing General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr., Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza, and Undersecretary of the Office of the President Nelson Estares.
It will take effect 15 days after its publication in two newspapers of general circulation and after registration with the Office of National Administrative Register (ONAR), UP Law Center, Quezon City.
This comes after President Rodrigo R. Duterte on April 3 signed Administrative Order (AO) No. 10, creating TFBL as the central coordinating body that will supervise the reintegration efforts.
TFBL’s IRR provides the framework to pursue a comprehensive, integrated, community-based national program that is locally-implemented to address the legal status and security of former rebels (FRs), as well as their economic, social, psychological rehabilitation needs and provide immediate to long-term interventions that are supported by strengthened institutions to ensure effective implementation and attainment of these desired outcomes.
Under the IRR, TFBL will be in charge of centralizing two existing government programs for former rebels, namely the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) administered by the DILG, and the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA), which is administered by Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP), as well as all the other social services of other government agencies.
The program will now be called the E-CLIP or the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which refers to the complete package of assistance to FRs.
Among the benefits and other forms of assistance given to beneficiaries include safety and security, PHP 15,000 immediate assistance, PHP21,000 to defray the subsistence or meals cost, support to relocate and secure the FR and his or her family, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, temporary shelter, PhilHealth enrolment, medical assistance package, housing assistance and/or housing unit , modified Conditional Cash Transfer, legal assistance, livelihood materials, healing and reconciliation initiatives, and any additional assistance.
Composition and function
TFBL will be composed of representatives, with a rank not lower than Undersecretary from the DND, DILG, OPAPP, office of the President and the National Housing Authority. The task force will be chaired by the DND representative who may invite other government agencies and instrumentalities to the task force as he may deem necessary.
It will also have the following functions:
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037016
The Department of National Defense (DND) has issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Task Force "Balik-Loob" (TFBL), the coordinating body tasked to centralize all government efforts for the reintegration of former communist rebels.
The seven-page IRR, which was released Tuesday (May 29), was signed by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, DILG Undersecretary Eduardo Año, Housing General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr., Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza, and Undersecretary of the Office of the President Nelson Estares.
It will take effect 15 days after its publication in two newspapers of general circulation and after registration with the Office of National Administrative Register (ONAR), UP Law Center, Quezon City.
This comes after President Rodrigo R. Duterte on April 3 signed Administrative Order (AO) No. 10, creating TFBL as the central coordinating body that will supervise the reintegration efforts.
TFBL’s IRR provides the framework to pursue a comprehensive, integrated, community-based national program that is locally-implemented to address the legal status and security of former rebels (FRs), as well as their economic, social, psychological rehabilitation needs and provide immediate to long-term interventions that are supported by strengthened institutions to ensure effective implementation and attainment of these desired outcomes.
Under the IRR, TFBL will be in charge of centralizing two existing government programs for former rebels, namely the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) administered by the DILG, and the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA), which is administered by Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP), as well as all the other social services of other government agencies.
The program will now be called the E-CLIP or the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which refers to the complete package of assistance to FRs.
Among the benefits and other forms of assistance given to beneficiaries include safety and security, PHP 15,000 immediate assistance, PHP21,000 to defray the subsistence or meals cost, support to relocate and secure the FR and his or her family, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, temporary shelter, PhilHealth enrolment, medical assistance package, housing assistance and/or housing unit , modified Conditional Cash Transfer, legal assistance, livelihood materials, healing and reconciliation initiatives, and any additional assistance.
Composition and function
TFBL will be composed of representatives, with a rank not lower than Undersecretary from the DND, DILG, OPAPP, office of the President and the National Housing Authority. The task force will be chaired by the DND representative who may invite other government agencies and instrumentalities to the task force as he may deem necessary.
It will also have the following functions:
- Develop the Strategic Communication (StratCom) Plan and the Implementing Guidelines governing the reintegration efforts
- Address implementation issues at the national and local levels
- Coordinate with concerned local government units to ensure the effective and timely implementation of the reintegration efforts
- Provide capability assistance to concerned LGUs
- Prepare a coordination, monitoring, evaluating and reporting mechanism that shall be used by all concerned agencies in checking the status of the reintegration efforts
- Prepare regular consolidated reports on the implementation of the reintegration efforts to be submitted to the OP
- Regularly review and update the StartCom Plan, Implementing Guidelines and other mechanisms to ensure the responsiveness and effectiveness of the reintegration efforts
- Call upon the assistance and cooperation of all concerned government agencies for the effective implementation of this order
Beneficiaries
Qualified beneficiaries of the E-CLIP have to be former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People's Army (NPA) and National Democratic Front (NDF) who voluntarily abandoned the armed struggle and opted to become productive members of the society.
Their spouses, partners, children, whether legitimate or illegitimate, parents or siblings are also beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB), who surfaced starting April 3, 2018 shall only be eligible to the following assistance: 1) Immediate Assistance; 2) Reintegration Assistance and 3) Firearm Remuneration
MBs are individuals who have been indoctrinated and may or may not be directly involved in violent armed struggle but when organized can provide mass support to the revolutionary movement of the CPP/NPA/NDF.
The program will cover those who will surface starting April 3, 2018 or issuance of Duterte's order.
All FRs who surfaced starting July 1, 2016 will likewise be provided with benefits from the program in additional to the CLIP package they have received.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1037016
NPA leader moved to Davao to face cases
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30): NPA leader moved to Davao to face cases
The New People’s Army (NPA) leader in the Davao region was moved to this city on Tuesday after almost three weeks of treatment for gunshot wounds in the neighboring province of Bukidnon, a police official said.
Elizalde Tormis "Ka Jinggoy" Canete, the top leader of the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Command 1 – Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (PBC 1-SMRC), was released from a hospital in Don Carlos town Monday evening. He is currently detained at the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).
Chief of Police Senior Supt Alexander Tagum told reporters Tuesday afternoon that warrants of arrest were issued by the three different branches of the Regional Trial Court against Cañete for 12 criminal cases, mostly for murder, serious illegal detention and robbery in band. No bail is recommended for most of the cases.
Tagum said Cañete is also facing three attempted murder cases with bail and frustrated murder with around P80,000 bail recommended.
“In 12 warrants of arrest for the cases he is facing in RTC XI, five of it are non-bailable,” he said.
Cañete was re-arrested last May 12 while undergoing medical treatment of gunshot wounds sustained during an encounter with government forces on May 10 in Sitio Linao, Barangay Kipilas, Kitaotao.
Cañete was first arrested in 2010 in an encounter with government forces. He was then allowed by the military to recover from his wounds sustained during an encounter in Montevista, Compostela Valley province but, he jumped bail in 2013 for the murder and arson cases filed against him.
“We will immediately turn over all these warrants of arrest and expedite the transfer of the venue for custody of Kumander Jinggoy.
As much as possible we will commit him,” Tagum said. Cañete will stay at the DCPO detention facility until a commitment order is issued by the court.
Tagum said the police will implement full security measures commensurate for high-ranking NPA leaders such as Cañete, adding that visits from relatives will not be allowed except for the NPA leader's mother.
Tagum said Cañete was brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for a medical check-up before he was brought to DCPO.
Tagum said the arrest of Cañete is a big blow to the NPA operating in Davao region, even as the police official warned leftist groups against holding rallies that would disturb peace and order.
”It is their right to conduct a rally but I would like to warn them that there are particular areas allowed for that - at the freedom park. If they will affect the traffic and affect the local peace and order baka isama naming sila sa kulungan kasama si Ka Jinggoy (we might bring them to prison with Ka Jinggoy),” he said.
Apparently fearing reprisal, Cañete’s mother, Babeta, admitted in an interview she was nervous of his son's transfer to DCPO because she's the only one allowed to watch over him.
Cañete’s group was held responsible for the death of fish vendor Larry Buenafe, who died after sustaining wounds from an NPA-planted landmine intended for the responding soldiers during an attack of a Lorenzo-owned facility in Barangay Mandug on Apr. 29, 2017.
Cañete also stands accused of burning the equipment being used in the ongoing bypass roads in Barangays Mandug and Fatima in Paquibato.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1036865
The New People’s Army (NPA) leader in the Davao region was moved to this city on Tuesday after almost three weeks of treatment for gunshot wounds in the neighboring province of Bukidnon, a police official said.
Elizalde Tormis "Ka Jinggoy" Canete, the top leader of the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Command 1 – Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (PBC 1-SMRC), was released from a hospital in Don Carlos town Monday evening. He is currently detained at the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).
Chief of Police Senior Supt Alexander Tagum told reporters Tuesday afternoon that warrants of arrest were issued by the three different branches of the Regional Trial Court against Cañete for 12 criminal cases, mostly for murder, serious illegal detention and robbery in band. No bail is recommended for most of the cases.
Tagum said Cañete is also facing three attempted murder cases with bail and frustrated murder with around P80,000 bail recommended.
“In 12 warrants of arrest for the cases he is facing in RTC XI, five of it are non-bailable,” he said.
Cañete was re-arrested last May 12 while undergoing medical treatment of gunshot wounds sustained during an encounter with government forces on May 10 in Sitio Linao, Barangay Kipilas, Kitaotao.
Cañete was first arrested in 2010 in an encounter with government forces. He was then allowed by the military to recover from his wounds sustained during an encounter in Montevista, Compostela Valley province but, he jumped bail in 2013 for the murder and arson cases filed against him.
“We will immediately turn over all these warrants of arrest and expedite the transfer of the venue for custody of Kumander Jinggoy.
As much as possible we will commit him,” Tagum said. Cañete will stay at the DCPO detention facility until a commitment order is issued by the court.
Tagum said the police will implement full security measures commensurate for high-ranking NPA leaders such as Cañete, adding that visits from relatives will not be allowed except for the NPA leader's mother.
Tagum said Cañete was brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for a medical check-up before he was brought to DCPO.
Tagum said the arrest of Cañete is a big blow to the NPA operating in Davao region, even as the police official warned leftist groups against holding rallies that would disturb peace and order.
”It is their right to conduct a rally but I would like to warn them that there are particular areas allowed for that - at the freedom park. If they will affect the traffic and affect the local peace and order baka isama naming sila sa kulungan kasama si Ka Jinggoy (we might bring them to prison with Ka Jinggoy),” he said.
Apparently fearing reprisal, Cañete’s mother, Babeta, admitted in an interview she was nervous of his son's transfer to DCPO because she's the only one allowed to watch over him.
Cañete’s group was held responsible for the death of fish vendor Larry Buenafe, who died after sustaining wounds from an NPA-planted landmine intended for the responding soldiers during an attack of a Lorenzo-owned facility in Barangay Mandug on Apr. 29, 2017.
Cañete also stands accused of burning the equipment being used in the ongoing bypass roads in Barangays Mandug and Fatima in Paquibato.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1036865
DWDD: LUMBAS 2018 | PN, RAN conducts Combined Maritime Training
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): LUMBAS 2018 | PN, RAN conducts Combined Maritime Training
CANJULAO, Lapu Lapu City (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted a combined Maritime Training Activity codenamed “Exercise LUMBAS 2018” from 18 to 23 MAY 2018 at Naval Forces Central (NFC) Area of Responsibility (AOR).
This training exercise has been conducted annually in the Philippines which started sometime in 1998. In previous years, EX LUMBAS was combined maritime training between the PN and the RAN which focuses on Maritime Security Operations and Maritime Interdiction Operation (MSO/ MIO). It is conducted in the form of Table Top Exercise (TTX) on odd numbered years with Field Training Exercise (FTX) on even numbered years. However, during the Navy to Navy Strategy talks held last 09 March 2017, Exercise LUMBAS will become an annual Naval Warfare Exercise focusing on the development of PN warfighting capabilities while Multi Agency TTX will shift from LUMBAS to Defense Cooperation Program (DCP) which will fall under the purview of the National Coast Watch Center (NCWC). Exercise LUMBAS will focus on addressing transnational crimes, piracy, counter-terrorism, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and anti-narcotics to align PN efforts with the current government policies.
For this year, the Field Training Exercise of this event was executed in two (2) segments. Segment 1 was the Harbor Phase which was conducted at facilities of NBRR and ships respective lecture/ training rooms. Opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expertise Exchanges (SMEEs), courtesy call, ships tour and FTX Opns Conferences and other related pre-sail briefing was held on 18-19 May 2018 prior the Sea Phase. Segment 2 was the Sea Phase which was conducted at seawaters of Negros Island on 20-22 May 2018 and focused on capability enhancement for Naval Operations and Maritime Security Operations, hence building Common Operating Picture (COP), information sharing and territorial defense related training. This phase was participated by one (1) vessel from RAN (HMAS ANZAC, FFH150), one (1) vessel form PN (BRP RAMON ALCARAZ, FF16) and two (2) aircrafts from PAF (FA50). Personnel from both Navy ships also conducted simultaneous the Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercise in their respective counterparts navy ship. One (1) Naval helicopter conducted deck landing proficiency aboard FF16 and FFH150 also during the FTX.
The culminating activities of the exercise include, friendly games between PN and RAN, and closing ceremony held at NBRR complex last 23 May 2018. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/katropa-lumbas2018-pnranconductscombinedmaritimetraining-lumbas-2018-pn-ran-conducts-combined-maritime-training/
CANJULAO, Lapu Lapu City (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted a combined Maritime Training Activity codenamed “Exercise LUMBAS 2018” from 18 to 23 MAY 2018 at Naval Forces Central (NFC) Area of Responsibility (AOR).
This training exercise has been conducted annually in the Philippines which started sometime in 1998. In previous years, EX LUMBAS was combined maritime training between the PN and the RAN which focuses on Maritime Security Operations and Maritime Interdiction Operation (MSO/ MIO). It is conducted in the form of Table Top Exercise (TTX) on odd numbered years with Field Training Exercise (FTX) on even numbered years. However, during the Navy to Navy Strategy talks held last 09 March 2017, Exercise LUMBAS will become an annual Naval Warfare Exercise focusing on the development of PN warfighting capabilities while Multi Agency TTX will shift from LUMBAS to Defense Cooperation Program (DCP) which will fall under the purview of the National Coast Watch Center (NCWC). Exercise LUMBAS will focus on addressing transnational crimes, piracy, counter-terrorism, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and anti-narcotics to align PN efforts with the current government policies.
For this year, the Field Training Exercise of this event was executed in two (2) segments. Segment 1 was the Harbor Phase which was conducted at facilities of NBRR and ships respective lecture/ training rooms. Opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expertise Exchanges (SMEEs), courtesy call, ships tour and FTX Opns Conferences and other related pre-sail briefing was held on 18-19 May 2018 prior the Sea Phase. Segment 2 was the Sea Phase which was conducted at seawaters of Negros Island on 20-22 May 2018 and focused on capability enhancement for Naval Operations and Maritime Security Operations, hence building Common Operating Picture (COP), information sharing and territorial defense related training. This phase was participated by one (1) vessel from RAN (HMAS ANZAC, FFH150), one (1) vessel form PN (BRP RAMON ALCARAZ, FF16) and two (2) aircrafts from PAF (FA50). Personnel from both Navy ships also conducted simultaneous the Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercise in their respective counterparts navy ship. One (1) Naval helicopter conducted deck landing proficiency aboard FF16 and FFH150 also during the FTX.
The culminating activities of the exercise include, friendly games between PN and RAN, and closing ceremony held at NBRR complex last 23 May 2018. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/katropa-lumbas2018-pnranconductscombinedmaritimetraining-lumbas-2018-pn-ran-conducts-combined-maritime-training/
DWDD: MARITIME MANEUVERS | Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2018 (RIMPAC 2018)
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): MARITIME MANEUVERS | Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2018 (RIMPAC 2018)
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Roxas Blvd., Manila (DWDD) – For the first time, the Philippine Navy (PN) will deploy two ships and a helicopter to participate in this year “Rim of the Pacific Exercise” (RIMPAC) that will be held off Hawaii.
The maneuvers are considered the world’s largest international maritime war games and is led by the US Navy’s Pacific Fleet. PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the Philippines will deploy 700 sailors and marines for RIMPAC 2018.
Some 30 navies are expected to participate in this year’s RIMPAC, which is usually scheduled for June and July and held every two years. The naval exercises seek to enhance inter-operability among Pacific Rim armed forces. MCAG / Photo credit: PHILIPPINE NAVY
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/maritime-maneuvers-rim-of-the-pacific-exercise-2018-rimpac-2018/
NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Roxas Blvd., Manila (DWDD) – For the first time, the Philippine Navy (PN) will deploy two ships and a helicopter to participate in this year “Rim of the Pacific Exercise” (RIMPAC) that will be held off Hawaii.
The maneuvers are considered the world’s largest international maritime war games and is led by the US Navy’s Pacific Fleet. PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the Philippines will deploy 700 sailors and marines for RIMPAC 2018.
Some 30 navies are expected to participate in this year’s RIMPAC, which is usually scheduled for June and July and held every two years. The naval exercises seek to enhance inter-operability among Pacific Rim armed forces. MCAG / Photo credit: PHILIPPINE NAVY
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/maritime-maneuvers-rim-of-the-pacific-exercise-2018-rimpac-2018/
DWDD: CHANGE OF COMMAND | 6ID Kampilan has new Commander
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): CHANGE OF COMMAND | 6ID Kampilan has new Commander
CAMP GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) –Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, Commanding General Philippine Army graces the installation of Brig. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, a well-decorated military Officer as new Commander of 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division, Philippine Army during the Change of Command ceremony on May 26, 2018 held at Camp Gonzalo Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana replaces Lt. Gen. Arnel B Dela Vega who recently took the post as Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) in Zamboanga City. The ceremony was highlighted by the giving of plaques of recognition to supportive stakeholders followed by inauguration and blessing of staff officers’ quarters and pinning of ranks to newly promoted enlisted personnel of the Command.
Brig. Gen. Sobejana, the new “Team Captain” of “Kampilan” is one of the distinct living heroes being a recipient of “Medal of Valor” for demonstrating bravery and heroism in actual combat. It is distinct and prestigious in the sense that there are only 41 recipients of the most coveted highest military award in the country since 1935.
The new commander of 6ID is a professional and well rounded officer having served in various positions and capacities in the AFP to wit: Company and Battalion Commander, School Commandant, and Deputy for Operations, all with the Army First Scout Ranger Regiment. He also served as Group Commander of the Civil-Military Operations Group, Executive Officer of the Army Resource Management Office, Head of the Plans, Policies and Materiel Development Division of the Army Support Command, Deputy to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, G7, and Chief of the Firepower Division at the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, J4, AFP. In 2003 to 2004, he also had the chance to serve with the United Nations Mission in East Timor (UNMISET) as Military Observer.
A proud member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class of 1987, Brig. Gen Sobejana is also a graduate of various specialized trainings and courses both local and abroad such as Scout Ranger, Special Forces Qualification, Airborne and Scuba Diver courses. He also underwent Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Training at Defense School in Sweden, Operations Research Systems Analysis Course at US Army Logistics Management College, Fort Lee, Virginia, Advance Security Cooperation Course at Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, Honolulu, Hawaii, Command and General Staff Course at AFP Command and General Staff College and, Executive Course on National Security Administration.
He is a bemedalled officer earning voluminous awards such as, Medal of Valor, Distinguished Conduct Star, two Distinguished Service Stars, Gold Cross Medal, two Bronze Cross Medals, Wounded Personnel Medal (Purple Heart), and several Military Merit and Commendation Medals. He is also a recipient of numerous Certificates of Appreciation and Recognition. Most significant to his accolades is his being adjudged as The Outstanding Philippines Soldier (Combat Category) in 1995 and in 2012 and the Award of Excellence for Public Service from the Governor of his province, Negros Oriental.
Prior to his post, he was the Commander of Joint Task Force-Sulu (JTF-Sulu) with the mandate of addressing the threat of terrorism and oversees the imposition of Martial Law upon President Duterte’s pronouncement and guidance in Sulu archipelago. This aims to facilitate the establishment of peace and tranquility as well as enhance the process of integration, reconciliation and conflict resolution in the area. His effort resulted to the snowballing of surrenderees comprised of 76 ASG members and turn-over of 700 firearms which was presented to the President in one of his visit in Patikul, town of Sulu.
On the otherhand, Lt. Gen. Bautista in his message, encourages all the “Kampilan troopers” to accord Brig. Gen. Sobejana the same support and commitment that had given to the former commander. He encourage everyone to move forward in unison, and keep in-step to achieve a greater heights. He emphasized that through teamwork great things can be accomplished.
“The Philippine Army is transforming to become a world-class Army with a world class system and processes. Recently, we were just inducted in the Palladium Balanced Scorecard Hall of Fame. To sustain this, we need the support and participation of the stakeholders for us to create a more sustainable development in support to Peace and Development Roadmap of the government under the able leadership of President Duterte” Bautista. Added. OACPA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/change-of-command-6id-kampilan-has-new-commander/
CAMP GONZALO SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (DWDD) –Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, Commanding General Philippine Army graces the installation of Brig. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana, a well-decorated military Officer as new Commander of 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division, Philippine Army during the Change of Command ceremony on May 26, 2018 held at Camp Gonzalo Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana replaces Lt. Gen. Arnel B Dela Vega who recently took the post as Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) in Zamboanga City. The ceremony was highlighted by the giving of plaques of recognition to supportive stakeholders followed by inauguration and blessing of staff officers’ quarters and pinning of ranks to newly promoted enlisted personnel of the Command.
Brig. Gen. Sobejana, the new “Team Captain” of “Kampilan” is one of the distinct living heroes being a recipient of “Medal of Valor” for demonstrating bravery and heroism in actual combat. It is distinct and prestigious in the sense that there are only 41 recipients of the most coveted highest military award in the country since 1935.
The new commander of 6ID is a professional and well rounded officer having served in various positions and capacities in the AFP to wit: Company and Battalion Commander, School Commandant, and Deputy for Operations, all with the Army First Scout Ranger Regiment. He also served as Group Commander of the Civil-Military Operations Group, Executive Officer of the Army Resource Management Office, Head of the Plans, Policies and Materiel Development Division of the Army Support Command, Deputy to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, G7, and Chief of the Firepower Division at the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, J4, AFP. In 2003 to 2004, he also had the chance to serve with the United Nations Mission in East Timor (UNMISET) as Military Observer.
A proud member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class of 1987, Brig. Gen Sobejana is also a graduate of various specialized trainings and courses both local and abroad such as Scout Ranger, Special Forces Qualification, Airborne and Scuba Diver courses. He also underwent Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Training at Defense School in Sweden, Operations Research Systems Analysis Course at US Army Logistics Management College, Fort Lee, Virginia, Advance Security Cooperation Course at Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, Honolulu, Hawaii, Command and General Staff Course at AFP Command and General Staff College and, Executive Course on National Security Administration.
He is a bemedalled officer earning voluminous awards such as, Medal of Valor, Distinguished Conduct Star, two Distinguished Service Stars, Gold Cross Medal, two Bronze Cross Medals, Wounded Personnel Medal (Purple Heart), and several Military Merit and Commendation Medals. He is also a recipient of numerous Certificates of Appreciation and Recognition. Most significant to his accolades is his being adjudged as The Outstanding Philippines Soldier (Combat Category) in 1995 and in 2012 and the Award of Excellence for Public Service from the Governor of his province, Negros Oriental.
Prior to his post, he was the Commander of Joint Task Force-Sulu (JTF-Sulu) with the mandate of addressing the threat of terrorism and oversees the imposition of Martial Law upon President Duterte’s pronouncement and guidance in Sulu archipelago. This aims to facilitate the establishment of peace and tranquility as well as enhance the process of integration, reconciliation and conflict resolution in the area. His effort resulted to the snowballing of surrenderees comprised of 76 ASG members and turn-over of 700 firearms which was presented to the President in one of his visit in Patikul, town of Sulu.
On the otherhand, Lt. Gen. Bautista in his message, encourages all the “Kampilan troopers” to accord Brig. Gen. Sobejana the same support and commitment that had given to the former commander. He encourage everyone to move forward in unison, and keep in-step to achieve a greater heights. He emphasized that through teamwork great things can be accomplished.
“The Philippine Army is transforming to become a world-class Army with a world class system and processes. Recently, we were just inducted in the Palladium Balanced Scorecard Hall of Fame. To sustain this, we need the support and participation of the stakeholders for us to create a more sustainable development in support to Peace and Development Roadmap of the government under the able leadership of President Duterte” Bautista. Added. OACPA / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/change-of-command-6id-kampilan-has-new-commander/
DWDD: SERIES OF CLASH | CNT Bombmaker and others die after series of encounter in Misamis Oriental
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): SERIES OF CLASH | CNT Bombmaker and others die after series of encounter in Misamis Oriental
LAGONGLONG, Misamis Oriental (DWDD) – Two (2) CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) perished during series of clash against government troops under 403rd Infantry Brigade (403Bde) at Barangay. Banglay, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental.
The first encounter took place around 9:00 AM, May 27 against 30 CNTs coming from Guerilla Front 4B of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), near Sitio Kamansi that lasted for about 25 minutes which resulted to the death of two CNTs and the seizure of two AK-47 Rifles and one M16 Rifle.
One of the CNTs was identified as Odelo Compas alias Sapayanan, a functional staff for Explosives/Ordnance and Production of said CNT group. The identity of the other dead CNT member is yet to be determined as of this release.
As the troops continue to conduct pursuit operations, another 20-minute firefight took place 1:45 PM the same day, near Sitio Bayhutao of same Barangay. The encounter resulted to the wounding of a soldier that was evacuated to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital at Cagayan de Oro City, 10:00 AM, May 28 and is now in stable condition. Further, troops were able to seized enemy encampment with 20 makeshift bunkers that can accommodate 50 CNTs, and recover one M203 grenade launcher, one 12-guage shotgun, one M635 Carbine, one air gun, ammunitions, sniper scope, 3 backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents.
Meanwhile, troops believe that several other CNTs were also wounded during the series of clash as evident by the bloodstains that were seen in the withdrawal route and from the reports received by the 403Bde after the encounter.
Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, Commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade said, “I am extending my condolences to the friends and families of NPA terrorists who died in the clash with government troops. It have not resulted into this if only these terrorists heeded the call of the government to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law.”
On the other hand, functional staff for Explosive/Ordnance and Production of Guerilla Front 4B of NCMRC is the one responsible for making and producing Improvised Explosive Devise and landmines.
“NPA terrorists are the reason why there are delays of development in the areas of Mindanao. They are desperately recruiting people that will join their failed armed struggle by force, threat and intimidation. Further, NPA terrorists are the ones laying down IEDs and landmines that endanger not only lives of our soldiers but also the innocent civilians. Campos who is a functional staff for Explosives/Ordnance and production of Guerilla Front 4B is a bomb maker himself. He makes landmines and IEDs proving that NPAs disrespect the International Humanitarian Law and are worthy to be called as terrorists.” Major General Ronald Villanueva, Commander of 4th Infantry Division said. 4DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/series-of-clash-cnt-bombmaker-and-others-die-after-series-of-encounter-in-misamis-oriental/
LAGONGLONG, Misamis Oriental (DWDD) – Two (2) CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) perished during series of clash against government troops under 403rd Infantry Brigade (403Bde) at Barangay. Banglay, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental.
The first encounter took place around 9:00 AM, May 27 against 30 CNTs coming from Guerilla Front 4B of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), near Sitio Kamansi that lasted for about 25 minutes which resulted to the death of two CNTs and the seizure of two AK-47 Rifles and one M16 Rifle.
One of the CNTs was identified as Odelo Compas alias Sapayanan, a functional staff for Explosives/Ordnance and Production of said CNT group. The identity of the other dead CNT member is yet to be determined as of this release.
As the troops continue to conduct pursuit operations, another 20-minute firefight took place 1:45 PM the same day, near Sitio Bayhutao of same Barangay. The encounter resulted to the wounding of a soldier that was evacuated to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital at Cagayan de Oro City, 10:00 AM, May 28 and is now in stable condition. Further, troops were able to seized enemy encampment with 20 makeshift bunkers that can accommodate 50 CNTs, and recover one M203 grenade launcher, one 12-guage shotgun, one M635 Carbine, one air gun, ammunitions, sniper scope, 3 backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents.
Meanwhile, troops believe that several other CNTs were also wounded during the series of clash as evident by the bloodstains that were seen in the withdrawal route and from the reports received by the 403Bde after the encounter.
Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, Commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade said, “I am extending my condolences to the friends and families of NPA terrorists who died in the clash with government troops. It have not resulted into this if only these terrorists heeded the call of the government to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law.”
On the other hand, functional staff for Explosive/Ordnance and Production of Guerilla Front 4B of NCMRC is the one responsible for making and producing Improvised Explosive Devise and landmines.
“NPA terrorists are the reason why there are delays of development in the areas of Mindanao. They are desperately recruiting people that will join their failed armed struggle by force, threat and intimidation. Further, NPA terrorists are the ones laying down IEDs and landmines that endanger not only lives of our soldiers but also the innocent civilians. Campos who is a functional staff for Explosives/Ordnance and production of Guerilla Front 4B is a bomb maker himself. He makes landmines and IEDs proving that NPAs disrespect the International Humanitarian Law and are worthy to be called as terrorists.” Major General Ronald Villanueva, Commander of 4th Infantry Division said. 4DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/series-of-clash-cnt-bombmaker-and-others-die-after-series-of-encounter-in-misamis-oriental/
DWDD: COMMEMORATED | Marawi Air Campaign
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): COMMEMORATED | Marawi Air Campaign
SANTA MARIA, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – The Tactical Operations Command (TOC) and Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao (TOW WESTMIN) jointly hosted the Marawi Air Campaign Commemoration (MACC) on May 25, 2018 at the EAAB, Grandstand, Sta. Maria, Zamboanga City to honor the gallant men of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) who helped in the resolution of the Marawi Crisis. General Carlito G Galvez Jr AFP, Chief of Staff, AFP was the Guest of Honor and Speaker of the said activity.
Furthermore, the Commanding General PAF, Lt Gen Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr AFP; Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM), Lt Gen Arnel B Dela Vega AFP; Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), RAdm Rene Medina AFP; Wing Commanders of the different Tactical Operations Wings (TOWs); Groups (TOGs); and Commanders of Mindanao-based Army Brigades/Joint Task Forces (JTFs) also attended the said event.
Meanwhile, Hon. Maria Isabelle Climaco -Salazar, the Mayor of Zamboanga City reads a resolution from the City Peace and Order Council (POC), commending the critical role of the PAF during the Marawi Crisis. Likewise, Representative Celso G Lobregat graced the occasion.
Highlighted the event was the giving of individual and unit awards to the following PAF personnel for their gallantry in action in support with the ground troops in Marawi:
GOLD CROSS MEDALS
(LTC MAYNARD P MARIANO- 5th Fighter Wing
CPT VINCENT T PACLIBAR PAF- 710th SPOW
MSg Cesar L Lubi PAF- 710th SPOW
DISTINGUISHED AVIATION CROSSES
MAJ DENNIS C TADEO PAF- 205th THW
LTC KAROL PREJILLANO- 15th SW
The MMM with BSD
MAJ ROLANDO C AGUHOB PAF-TOG 10
MMM with BAL
TSg Roberto R Sabillon PAF
CHIEF OF STAFF PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION were also given to the following PAF units:
OPERATIONS COMMAND (TOC)
TACTICAL OPERATIONS WING WESTERN MINDANAO (TOW WESTMIN)
205TH TACTICAL HELICOPTER WING
15TH STRIKE WING
5TH FIGHTER WING
220TH AIRLIFT WING
250TH PRESIDENTIAL AIRLIFT WING (PAW)
710TH SPECIAL OPERATIONS WING (SPOW)
300TH AIR INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY WING (AISW)
900TH AIR FORCE WEATHER GROUP (AFWG)
560TH AIR BASE WING (ABW)
TACTICAL OPERATIONS WING CENTRAL (TOWCEN)
Likewise, an Audio Video Presentation (AVP) were presented showcasing the critical events leading to the crisis and the role of the PAF and airpower in helping resolve the Marawi Crisis. Towards the end of the AVP, a pair of FA-50s and an OV-10 Bronco made a low-pass flyby much to the delight of the audience.
In his speech, Major General Domingo B Palisoc Jr AFP, Commander, TOC extended his felicitations to all the pilots, crews, maintenance personnel, forward air controllers, and EODs for all their efforts and selfless commitment in accomplishing the AFP’s mission of neutralizing the Daesh-inspired Maute Terror Group who besiege the City of Marawi for five long months. More so, he was honored being the overall air campaign commander during the entire Marawi Crisis.
Moreover, the Chief of Staff, General Carlito G Galvez Jr AFP was very emphatic in uplifting the PAFs “air power” and capability during the Marawi Crisis. He cited the important role of the FA-50s in bombing and neutralizing the highly entrenched Maute identified targets in Marawi City, the C-130s which airlifted battalions of PA and PN Marine units in record time, the role of Close Air Support (CAS) aircraft such as the AW-109s, OV-10 Broncos, MD-520MGs, SF-260 warriors that afflicted casualties to the enemy side the UH-1H/D Hueys which save the lives of many of our ground troops.
He then personally thanked all the pilots, crews, maintenance personnel, forward air controllers, and EOD personnel for their commitment and sacrifices in the five-month long siege. He ended his speech by reiterating his previous pronouncements that the PAF were indeed the “GAME CHANGERS” in the entire Marawi Crisis. EAAB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/commemorated-marawi-air-campaign/
SANTA MARIA, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – The Tactical Operations Command (TOC) and Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao (TOW WESTMIN) jointly hosted the Marawi Air Campaign Commemoration (MACC) on May 25, 2018 at the EAAB, Grandstand, Sta. Maria, Zamboanga City to honor the gallant men of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) who helped in the resolution of the Marawi Crisis. General Carlito G Galvez Jr AFP, Chief of Staff, AFP was the Guest of Honor and Speaker of the said activity.
Furthermore, the Commanding General PAF, Lt Gen Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr AFP; Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM), Lt Gen Arnel B Dela Vega AFP; Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), RAdm Rene Medina AFP; Wing Commanders of the different Tactical Operations Wings (TOWs); Groups (TOGs); and Commanders of Mindanao-based Army Brigades/Joint Task Forces (JTFs) also attended the said event.
Meanwhile, Hon. Maria Isabelle Climaco -Salazar, the Mayor of Zamboanga City reads a resolution from the City Peace and Order Council (POC), commending the critical role of the PAF during the Marawi Crisis. Likewise, Representative Celso G Lobregat graced the occasion.
Highlighted the event was the giving of individual and unit awards to the following PAF personnel for their gallantry in action in support with the ground troops in Marawi:
GOLD CROSS MEDALS
(LTC MAYNARD P MARIANO- 5th Fighter Wing
CPT VINCENT T PACLIBAR PAF- 710th SPOW
MSg Cesar L Lubi PAF- 710th SPOW
DISTINGUISHED AVIATION CROSSES
MAJ DENNIS C TADEO PAF- 205th THW
LTC KAROL PREJILLANO- 15th SW
The MMM with BSD
MAJ ROLANDO C AGUHOB PAF-TOG 10
MMM with BAL
TSg Roberto R Sabillon PAF
CHIEF OF STAFF PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION were also given to the following PAF units:
OPERATIONS COMMAND (TOC)
TACTICAL OPERATIONS WING WESTERN MINDANAO (TOW WESTMIN)
205TH TACTICAL HELICOPTER WING
15TH STRIKE WING
5TH FIGHTER WING
220TH AIRLIFT WING
250TH PRESIDENTIAL AIRLIFT WING (PAW)
710TH SPECIAL OPERATIONS WING (SPOW)
300TH AIR INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY WING (AISW)
900TH AIR FORCE WEATHER GROUP (AFWG)
560TH AIR BASE WING (ABW)
TACTICAL OPERATIONS WING CENTRAL (TOWCEN)
Likewise, an Audio Video Presentation (AVP) were presented showcasing the critical events leading to the crisis and the role of the PAF and airpower in helping resolve the Marawi Crisis. Towards the end of the AVP, a pair of FA-50s and an OV-10 Bronco made a low-pass flyby much to the delight of the audience.
In his speech, Major General Domingo B Palisoc Jr AFP, Commander, TOC extended his felicitations to all the pilots, crews, maintenance personnel, forward air controllers, and EODs for all their efforts and selfless commitment in accomplishing the AFP’s mission of neutralizing the Daesh-inspired Maute Terror Group who besiege the City of Marawi for five long months. More so, he was honored being the overall air campaign commander during the entire Marawi Crisis.
Moreover, the Chief of Staff, General Carlito G Galvez Jr AFP was very emphatic in uplifting the PAFs “air power” and capability during the Marawi Crisis. He cited the important role of the FA-50s in bombing and neutralizing the highly entrenched Maute identified targets in Marawi City, the C-130s which airlifted battalions of PA and PN Marine units in record time, the role of Close Air Support (CAS) aircraft such as the AW-109s, OV-10 Broncos, MD-520MGs, SF-260 warriors that afflicted casualties to the enemy side the UH-1H/D Hueys which save the lives of many of our ground troops.
He then personally thanked all the pilots, crews, maintenance personnel, forward air controllers, and EOD personnel for their commitment and sacrifices in the five-month long siege. He ended his speech by reiterating his previous pronouncements that the PAF were indeed the “GAME CHANGERS” in the entire Marawi Crisis. EAAB / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/commemorated-marawi-air-campaign/
DWDD: AIR POWER | PAF game-changer in Marawi
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 30): AIR POWER | PAF game-changer in Marawi
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – Without support from the Philippine Air Force (PAF), especially its brand-new Mach 1.5 capable FA-50PH jet fighters, government losses in the five-month battle to liberate Marawi City from control of the Maute-ISIS Group terrorists would have been much higher.
Aside from these war-birds manned by their attack pilots, several PAF aircraft which included the C-130 Hercules and C-295 of PAF’s 220th Airlift Wing; and UH-IH and Bell-412 combat utility helicopters were heavily utilized in transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation missions in support of Marawi’s liberation from terrorists. PAF / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/air-power-paf-game-changer-in-marawi/
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – Without support from the Philippine Air Force (PAF), especially its brand-new Mach 1.5 capable FA-50PH jet fighters, government losses in the five-month battle to liberate Marawi City from control of the Maute-ISIS Group terrorists would have been much higher.
Aside from these war-birds manned by their attack pilots, several PAF aircraft which included the C-130 Hercules and C-295 of PAF’s 220th Airlift Wing; and UH-IH and Bell-412 combat utility helicopters were heavily utilized in transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation missions in support of Marawi’s liberation from terrorists. PAF / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/05/30/air-power-paf-game-changer-in-marawi/
US plans 'steady drumbeat' of exercises in South China Sea, Mattis says
From CNN (May 29): US plans 'steady drumbeat' of exercises in South China Sea, Mattis says
Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images BEIJING, July 26, 2017 : File photo taken in July, 2016 shows Chinese H-6K bomber patrolling islands and reefs including Huangyan Island in the South China Sea....
US Defense Secretary James Mattis said on Tuesday that the United States will continue "a steady drumbeat" of naval exercises to challenge China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, amid Beijing's militarization of the contested waters.
Mattis' comments came after Beijing expressed "firm opposition" on Sunday after two US warships sailed within 12 nautical miles of four artificial islands claimed by China in the disputed Paracel island chain, east of Vietnam.
Speaking to reporters during a flight to Hawaii, Mattis said the South China Sea was international waters and "a lot of nations" wanted to see freedom of navigation maintained in the area.
"There's a very steady drumbeat of freedom of navigation operations ... You'll notice there is only one country that seems to take active steps to rebuff them or state their resentment of them," he said.
The Chinese government, which claims much of the South China Sea as its sovereign territory, has established a significant military presence in the region, installing radar facilities and airstrips on contested islands and reefs.
Mattis said Chinese President Xi Jinping had broken the promise he made at the White House in 2015 in regards to his country's actions in the region.
"He stated that they would not be militarizing the islands, we have seen in the last month they have done exactly that, moving weaponry in that was never there before," Mattis said.
In May, the Chinese military landed nuclear-capable bombers on their artificial islands for the first time. Weeks earlier, US intelligence announced there was a high possibility Beijing had deployed anti-ship and anti-aircraft missiles as part of military exercises.
Though the US' latest freedom of navigation operation was likely planned months in advance, experts said it was suggestive of the US' attempts to pursue a harder line against China in the South China Sea.
On Sunday, China's Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian labeled the return of US warships a "provocation" which violated Chinese and international laws and blamed the US military's exercises for the growing militarization of the region.
China disinvited from major US exercises
Mattis, who travels to the annual Shangri-La defense summit in Singapore on June 1, said the United States worked to keep their military activity in the Pacific "very transparent" and expected the same from its partners and allies.
"So, when (Beijing) do things that are opaque to the rest of us, then we cannot cooperate in areas that we would otherwise cooperate in," he said.
Mattis' comments appear to refer to the US' decision to rescind an invitation to the Chinese military to participate in maritime exercises in the Pacific due to Beijing's actions in the South China Sea, which Washington described as "inconsistent with the principles and purposes" of the exercise
The massive military event, known as RIMPAC, is described by the US Navy as the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise and involves more than 20 countries from across the world.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at the time the US decision was "very unconstructive."
"It's unhelpful to mutual understanding between China and the US. We hope the US will change such a negative mindset," he told reporters in Washington.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/us-plans-steady-drumbeat-of-exercises-in-south-china-sea-mattis-says/ar-AAy0sCp?ocid=ientp
![BEIJING, July 26, 2017 : File photo taken in July, 2016 shows Chinese H-6K bomber patrolling islands and reefs including Huangyan Island in the South China Sea. It has been a big year for China's military as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is to celebrate its 90th birthday. As Aug. 1, the birthday of the PLA, approaches, the country's army has shown how much its military capacity has grown and how committed it is to maintaining world peace.The PLA has come a long way since its birth during the armed uprising in the city of Nanchang on August 1, 1927, when it had only 20,000 soldiers. Ninety years later, the country boasts 2 million servicemen, according to a national defense white paper titled "China's Military Strategy," published in 2015. Besides the growth in numbers, the PLA has armed its soldiers with world-class equipment. As of June 2017, the Chinese military had participated in 24 UN peacekeeping missions, sending 31,000 personnel, 13 of whom lost their lives in duty. Since 2008, the Navy has dispatched 26 escort task force groups, including more than 70 ships for escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia. More than 6,300 Chinese and foreign ships have been protected during these missions. (Xinhua/Liu Rui via Getty Images): BEIJING, July 26, 2017 : File photo taken in July, 2016 shows Chinese H-6K bomber patrolling islands and reefs including Huangyan Island in the South China Sea. It has been a big year for China's military as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is to celebrate its 90th birthday. As Aug. 1, the birthday of the PLA, approaches, the country's army has shown how much its military capacity has grown and how committed it is to maintaining world peace. The PLA has come a long way since its birth during the armed uprising in the city of Nanchang on August 1, 1927, when it had only 20,000 soldiers. Ninety years later, the country boasts 2 million servicemen, according to a national defense white paper titled "China's Military Strategy," published in 2015. Besides the growth in numbers, the PLA has armed its soldiers with world-class equipment. As of June 2017, the Chinese military had participated in 24 UN peacekeeping missions, sending 31,000 personnel, 13 of whom lost their lives in duty. Since 2008, the Navy has dispatched 26 escort task force groups, including more than 70 ships for escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia. More than 6,300 Chinese and foreign ships have been protected during these missions. (Xinhua/Liu Rui via Getty Images)]({"default":{"load":"default","w":"80","h":"45","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAy0dE9.img?h=450&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=563&y=426"},"size3column":{"load":"default","w":"62","h":"35","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAy0dE9.img?h=352&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=563&y=426"},"size2column":{"load":"default","w":"62","h":"35","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAy0dE9.img?h=352&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=563&y=426"}})
Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images BEIJING, July 26, 2017 : File photo taken in July, 2016 shows Chinese H-6K bomber patrolling islands and reefs including Huangyan Island in the South China Sea....
US Defense Secretary James Mattis said on Tuesday that the United States will continue "a steady drumbeat" of naval exercises to challenge China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, amid Beijing's militarization of the contested waters.
Mattis' comments came after Beijing expressed "firm opposition" on Sunday after two US warships sailed within 12 nautical miles of four artificial islands claimed by China in the disputed Paracel island chain, east of Vietnam.
Speaking to reporters during a flight to Hawaii, Mattis said the South China Sea was international waters and "a lot of nations" wanted to see freedom of navigation maintained in the area.
"There's a very steady drumbeat of freedom of navigation operations ... You'll notice there is only one country that seems to take active steps to rebuff them or state their resentment of them," he said.
The Chinese government, which claims much of the South China Sea as its sovereign territory, has established a significant military presence in the region, installing radar facilities and airstrips on contested islands and reefs.
Mattis said Chinese President Xi Jinping had broken the promise he made at the White House in 2015 in regards to his country's actions in the region.
"He stated that they would not be militarizing the islands, we have seen in the last month they have done exactly that, moving weaponry in that was never there before," Mattis said.
In May, the Chinese military landed nuclear-capable bombers on their artificial islands for the first time. Weeks earlier, US intelligence announced there was a high possibility Beijing had deployed anti-ship and anti-aircraft missiles as part of military exercises.
Though the US' latest freedom of navigation operation was likely planned months in advance, experts said it was suggestive of the US' attempts to pursue a harder line against China in the South China Sea.
On Sunday, China's Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian labeled the return of US warships a "provocation" which violated Chinese and international laws and blamed the US military's exercises for the growing militarization of the region.
China disinvited from major US exercises
Mattis, who travels to the annual Shangri-La defense summit in Singapore on June 1, said the United States worked to keep their military activity in the Pacific "very transparent" and expected the same from its partners and allies.
"So, when (Beijing) do things that are opaque to the rest of us, then we cannot cooperate in areas that we would otherwise cooperate in," he said.
Mattis' comments appear to refer to the US' decision to rescind an invitation to the Chinese military to participate in maritime exercises in the Pacific due to Beijing's actions in the South China Sea, which Washington described as "inconsistent with the principles and purposes" of the exercise
The massive military event, known as RIMPAC, is described by the US Navy as the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise and involves more than 20 countries from across the world.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at the time the US decision was "very unconstructive."
"It's unhelpful to mutual understanding between China and the US. We hope the US will change such a negative mindset," he told reporters in Washington.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/us-plans-steady-drumbeat-of-exercises-in-south-china-sea-mattis-says/ar-AAy0sCp?ocid=ientp
MNLF-IIO: Misuari at handover of two PNP policewomen
Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office Website (May 19): Misuari at handover of two PNP policewomen
Gov. Toto Tan hands over the released two policewomen, victims of recent kidnapping, to Secretary Jesus Dureza, OPAPP, at the Jolo Airport today 19 May 2018.
Also present were Chairman Nur Misuari of the MNLF and the security sector led by Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu.
Gov. Tan thanked the members of the AFP and the PNP for their relentless efforts for the release of the kidnap victims.
...
Also present were Chairman Nur Misuari of the MNLF and the security sector led by Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu.
Gov. Tan thanked the members of the AFP and the PNP for their relentless efforts for the release of the kidnap victims.
...
The influence of Chairman Misuari in adding to the pressures by all concerned sectors to resolve kidnappings in Sulu is also acknowledged.
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554811814745/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554815148078/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554818481411/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554811814745/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554815148078/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1982554881814738/1982554818481411/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/
MNLF-IIO: Beware of Fake MNLF Account
Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office Website (May 23):
Beware of Fake MNLF Account
Beware of Fake MNLF Account
Beware of Fake MNLF Account. Get your source from genuine MNLF sources..
أبو شامل السولوي
Fitna Alert! Modi's fake fb accounts are pretending to be the MNLF just to discredit the image of our MNLF brothers!
MNLF-IIO: Misuari hero of Oppressed Moro Nation
Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office Website (May 24): Misuari hero of Oppressed Moro Nation
Prof. NUR P. Misuari, as MNLF founding Chairman, is a living hero of the Oppressed Moro Nation. He taught his Moro countrymen the true meaning of FREEDOM; the ROAD to FREEDOM by WORDS and DEEDS. So he will live forever in the heart of time and history. 50 - Year leading the Struggle, MNLF and Bangsamoros have already reached the summit of recognition and respect as members of the Parliamentary Union of Islamic Countries; with Permanent Observer Status in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), including the recognitions of UNESCO and many non-muslim countries in the world.
SG Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/a.1169806703089564.1073741832.404979842905591/1989695427767350/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/
Prof. NUR P. Misuari, as MNLF founding Chairman, is a living hero of the Oppressed Moro Nation. He taught his Moro countrymen the true meaning of FREEDOM; the ROAD to FREEDOM by WORDS and DEEDS. So he will live forever in the heart of time and history. 50 - Year leading the Struggle, MNLF and Bangsamoros have already reached the summit of recognition and respect as members of the Parliamentary Union of Islamic Countries; with Permanent Observer Status in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), including the recognitions of UNESCO and many non-muslim countries in the world.
SG Ustadz Murshi Ibrahim
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/a.1169806703089564.1073741832.404979842905591/1989695427767350/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/
MNLF-IIO: Court frees 97 MNLF members in Zamboanga siege
Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office Website (May 28): Court frees 97 MNLF members in Zamboanga siege
BREAKING NEWS
via ABS-CBN News
"Ninety-seven members of the Moro National Liberation Front who were involved in the deadly siege on Zamboanga City 5 years ago arrived here (Zamboanga) on Monday after a court ordered their release.
...
A court had ruled that the rebels, who belong to an MNLF faction led by the group's founder, Nur Misuari, served all penalties for sedition. They were fined P5,000 each."
#OneZamboanga
via ABS-CBN News
"Ninety-seven members of the Moro National Liberation Front who were involved in the deadly siege on Zamboanga City 5 years ago arrived here (Zamboanga) on Monday after a court ordered their release.
...
A court had ruled that the rebels, who belong to an MNLF faction led by the group's founder, Nur Misuari, served all penalties for sedition. They were fined P5,000 each."
#OneZamboanga
MILF: President Duteerte certifies BBL as urgent
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 30): President Duteerte certifies BBL as urgent
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has certified the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as urgent, a report of Philippine Daily Inquirer on May 29 afternoon says.
The report also stated that Presidential Legislative Liaison Office head Sec. Adelino Sitoy on Tuesday afternoon told reporters the BBL certification has already been transmitted to Senate President Vicente Sotto III.
The leaders of Senate and House of Representatives last week sent communication to Malacanan asking President Duterte to certify the Bangsamoro law as urgent.
Yesterday, members of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body mandated to craft the BBL met with lawmakers from both Senate and House of Representatives to discuss contentious issues of the measure.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Sec. Jesus Dureza said in a statement that the President held meeting with the leaders and members of the two chambers of Philippine Congress and a separate meeting the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
“The meeting adjourned with a general consensus that the two chambers conclude their work at the earliest possible time and if there are varying versions, that the mandated bicameral committees of both chambers meet to come up with a joint reconciled and accepted version,” Dureza said in a statement posted at the OPAPP Facebook page.
Dureza added that the President shall sign BBL into law on time for its announcement during the State of the Nation Address in July, this year.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1356/president_duteerte_certifies_bbl_as_urgent_
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has certified the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as urgent, a report of Philippine Daily Inquirer on May 29 afternoon says.
The report also stated that Presidential Legislative Liaison Office head Sec. Adelino Sitoy on Tuesday afternoon told reporters the BBL certification has already been transmitted to Senate President Vicente Sotto III.
The leaders of Senate and House of Representatives last week sent communication to Malacanan asking President Duterte to certify the Bangsamoro law as urgent.
Yesterday, members of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body mandated to craft the BBL met with lawmakers from both Senate and House of Representatives to discuss contentious issues of the measure.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Sec. Jesus Dureza said in a statement that the President held meeting with the leaders and members of the two chambers of Philippine Congress and a separate meeting the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
“The meeting adjourned with a general consensus that the two chambers conclude their work at the earliest possible time and if there are varying versions, that the mandated bicameral committees of both chambers meet to come up with a joint reconciled and accepted version,” Dureza said in a statement posted at the OPAPP Facebook page.
Dureza added that the President shall sign BBL into law on time for its announcement during the State of the Nation Address in July, this year.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1356/president_duteerte_certifies_bbl_as_urgent_
MILF: Mindanao is likely be the base of ISIS caliphate: President Duterte warns
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 28): Mindanao is likely be the base of ISIS caliphate: President Duterte warns
Mindanao is likely be the base of the caliphate of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) if the terrorist group would establish its kingdom in Southeast Asia, President Rodrigo Duterte warned on Friday (May 24) during the inauguration of Davao bridge widening project in Davao City.
“Now they’re planning to establish a caliphate here in Southeast Asia. What country would be the most ideal to set up a camp?,” the President asked and hinted it would unlikely be Indonesia, Malaysia nor Brunei since they are majority Muslims.
He said ISIS, now being pushed out of Middle East, does not know anything but to kill and destroy.
“And sometimes in their crazy notion that they are the disciples of God, they say that they will kill all infidels and infidels is --- are the non-Muslims,” the Philippine President said.
“Where would they find the infidels to kill? They are not found aplenty in Indonesia, Malaysia, or Brunei. It’s right here,” Duterte further cautioned.
Local terrorist groups Maute and Abu Sayaff which had a motive to establish a province of ISIS caliphate laid siege to Marawi city last May 23, 2017. It was reported that both have pledged allegiance to ISIS.
Government troops embattled for five months before Marawi, popularly known as the only Islamic city of the country, was declared liberated from the two insurgent groups.
The battle of Marawi left more than a thousand people dead and billions of pesos worth of properties destroyed.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1353/mindanao-is-likely-be-the-base-of-isis-caliphate--president-duterte-warns
Mindanao is likely be the base of the caliphate of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) if the terrorist group would establish its kingdom in Southeast Asia, President Rodrigo Duterte warned on Friday (May 24) during the inauguration of Davao bridge widening project in Davao City.
“Now they’re planning to establish a caliphate here in Southeast Asia. What country would be the most ideal to set up a camp?,” the President asked and hinted it would unlikely be Indonesia, Malaysia nor Brunei since they are majority Muslims.
He said ISIS, now being pushed out of Middle East, does not know anything but to kill and destroy.
“And sometimes in their crazy notion that they are the disciples of God, they say that they will kill all infidels and infidels is --- are the non-Muslims,” the Philippine President said.
“Where would they find the infidels to kill? They are not found aplenty in Indonesia, Malaysia, or Brunei. It’s right here,” Duterte further cautioned.
Local terrorist groups Maute and Abu Sayaff which had a motive to establish a province of ISIS caliphate laid siege to Marawi city last May 23, 2017. It was reported that both have pledged allegiance to ISIS.
Government troops embattled for five months before Marawi, popularly known as the only Islamic city of the country, was declared liberated from the two insurgent groups.
The battle of Marawi left more than a thousand people dead and billions of pesos worth of properties destroyed.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1353/mindanao-is-likely-be-the-base-of-isis-caliphate--president-duterte-warns
MILF: Palace vows fast action in Marawi ‘culture and religious sensitive’ rehab efforts
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 28): Palace vows fast action in Marawi ‘culture and religious sensitive’ rehab efforts
Malacañang assured on Friday, May 24, the public that the government is acting fast on its efforts to completely rehabilitate and reconstruct Marawi City and that the rehabilitation initiatives will be attuned to the culture and religious sensitivities of the affected communities.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press briefing, that there were dialogues conducted by the Task Force Marawi who gave assurance that the rehabilitation efforts will consider the culture and religious sensitivities of the residents of Marawi and other affected communities.
Roque is hopeful that the occupants of 67 evacuation centers in Northern Mindanao and parts of Lanao del Sur will be allowed to return home soon.
He added that there was a total of 77,700 individuals or 10,835 families who were also allowed to return to the most affected area (MAA).
The cabinet secretary also clarified that there is a master plan for the complete rehabilitation of the war-torn Islamic city.
“The Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (BMCRRP) is targeted for approval by the Cabinet this June,” he said.
Roque added that under the said initiative, 892 short- and medium-term programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) will be implemented by different government agencies for the reconstruction and development Marawi city and all localities affected by the siege.
He said the estimated budget of 53.4 billion pesos will focus on rebuilding physical infrastructure, housing, livelihood assistance, and in local governance and peacebuilding.
Roque also announced that there will be groundbreaking ceremony to be conducted by June that will signal the start of a full-scale reconstruction of the mostly affected areas.
He further said that the DSWD will be providing food packs, kitchen utensils, and hygiene kits to those who will return while the LGUs of Lanao del Sur and Norte and the City Government of Marawi are also providing Ramadhan food packs.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1354/palace-vows-fast-action-in-marawi----culture-and-religious-sensitive----rehab-efforts-
Malacañang assured on Friday, May 24, the public that the government is acting fast on its efforts to completely rehabilitate and reconstruct Marawi City and that the rehabilitation initiatives will be attuned to the culture and religious sensitivities of the affected communities.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press briefing, that there were dialogues conducted by the Task Force Marawi who gave assurance that the rehabilitation efforts will consider the culture and religious sensitivities of the residents of Marawi and other affected communities.
Roque is hopeful that the occupants of 67 evacuation centers in Northern Mindanao and parts of Lanao del Sur will be allowed to return home soon.
He added that there was a total of 77,700 individuals or 10,835 families who were also allowed to return to the most affected area (MAA).
The cabinet secretary also clarified that there is a master plan for the complete rehabilitation of the war-torn Islamic city.
“The Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (BMCRRP) is targeted for approval by the Cabinet this June,” he said.
Roque added that under the said initiative, 892 short- and medium-term programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) will be implemented by different government agencies for the reconstruction and development Marawi city and all localities affected by the siege.
He said the estimated budget of 53.4 billion pesos will focus on rebuilding physical infrastructure, housing, livelihood assistance, and in local governance and peacebuilding.
Roque also announced that there will be groundbreaking ceremony to be conducted by June that will signal the start of a full-scale reconstruction of the mostly affected areas.
He further said that the DSWD will be providing food packs, kitchen utensils, and hygiene kits to those who will return while the LGUs of Lanao del Sur and Norte and the City Government of Marawi are also providing Ramadhan food packs.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1354/palace-vows-fast-action-in-marawi----culture-and-religious-sensitive----rehab-efforts-
MILF: MILF, TPMT share opinions on the Peace Process
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 28): MILF, TPMT share opinions on the Peace Process
CAMP DARAPANAN – Leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) had met with members of Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao on May 20, 2018.
This exchange of thoughts was happened in a recent courtesy visit rendered by the latter to the MILF administrative camp. Both parties were in the same position that Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), pending its approval by both lower and upper chambers of congress plays pivotal role in shaping the future social and political landscape of the region, or even the Philippine state as a whole.
MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim has his strong belief on the political will of President Rodrigo Duterte, who made an assurance that “there would be a Bangsamoro Government within his term.”
Along with Central Committee members Edward Guerra, Maestro Celis and Abu Huraira Udasan, Al Haj Murad, the highest ranking Moro Front chief holds firm on the statements of the president during their several exclusive meetings discussing the Bangsamoro issues of “historical injustices.”
The president has even deliberately declared his assurance on the passage of BBL at the end of May 2018 or else “I might just resign from the presidency,” Duterte said during the turnover of unlicensed firearms in Buluan, Maguindnao last April. That is the strongest statement that the Philippine head of state ever have made in support for proposed measure.
The TPMT group represented by Rahib Kudto, Karen Tañada, Huseyin Uroç and Sam Chittick had also able to share their own readings and projections on the BBL. They see the scrutiny by the two legislation houses might would appear tough on the opt-in provision of the proposed bill, even though they are working with the same version.
The BBL is the legal form to implement signed peace deal between Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF), the comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). A former form of BBL is about to be signed in 2015, in which a case of spoiled police operation in Mamasapano on January 25, 2015 has derailed it substantially.
Both the House of Representatives (HoR) and the Senate have adopted the New Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) version of BBL as their reference to come up with a law that would repeal the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), into a new Bangsamoro Region, which has better features for the Bangsamoro people to exercise meaningful autonomy and to end the long standing struggle that has brought poverty and sufferings to many.
The two groups had also tackled challenging issues that may affect the bid to self-rule by the Bangsamoro, specifically during the conduct of plebiscites noting that extra efforts should be done to some identified that may vote against the new political entity establishment.
They were also bonded on a point of view that challenging it may appear, but at the end of the day, the six (6) municipalities in Lanao Del Norte and thirty-nine (39) barangays in North Cotabato, a Muslim dominated areas who voted for inclusion during the previous plebiscite – but their mother province voted no in the totality.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1355/milf--tpmt-share-opinions-on-the-peace-process
CAMP DARAPANAN – Leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) had met with members of Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao on May 20, 2018.
This exchange of thoughts was happened in a recent courtesy visit rendered by the latter to the MILF administrative camp. Both parties were in the same position that Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), pending its approval by both lower and upper chambers of congress plays pivotal role in shaping the future social and political landscape of the region, or even the Philippine state as a whole.
MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim has his strong belief on the political will of President Rodrigo Duterte, who made an assurance that “there would be a Bangsamoro Government within his term.”
Along with Central Committee members Edward Guerra, Maestro Celis and Abu Huraira Udasan, Al Haj Murad, the highest ranking Moro Front chief holds firm on the statements of the president during their several exclusive meetings discussing the Bangsamoro issues of “historical injustices.”
The president has even deliberately declared his assurance on the passage of BBL at the end of May 2018 or else “I might just resign from the presidency,” Duterte said during the turnover of unlicensed firearms in Buluan, Maguindnao last April. That is the strongest statement that the Philippine head of state ever have made in support for proposed measure.
The TPMT group represented by Rahib Kudto, Karen Tañada, Huseyin Uroç and Sam Chittick had also able to share their own readings and projections on the BBL. They see the scrutiny by the two legislation houses might would appear tough on the opt-in provision of the proposed bill, even though they are working with the same version.
The BBL is the legal form to implement signed peace deal between Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF), the comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). A former form of BBL is about to be signed in 2015, in which a case of spoiled police operation in Mamasapano on January 25, 2015 has derailed it substantially.
Both the House of Representatives (HoR) and the Senate have adopted the New Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) version of BBL as their reference to come up with a law that would repeal the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), into a new Bangsamoro Region, which has better features for the Bangsamoro people to exercise meaningful autonomy and to end the long standing struggle that has brought poverty and sufferings to many.
The two groups had also tackled challenging issues that may affect the bid to self-rule by the Bangsamoro, specifically during the conduct of plebiscites noting that extra efforts should be done to some identified that may vote against the new political entity establishment.
They were also bonded on a point of view that challenging it may appear, but at the end of the day, the six (6) municipalities in Lanao Del Norte and thirty-nine (39) barangays in North Cotabato, a Muslim dominated areas who voted for inclusion during the previous plebiscite – but their mother province voted no in the totality.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1355/milf--tpmt-share-opinions-on-the-peace-process
MILF: “We must support the enactment of BBL by Congress”—Abdula
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 27): “We must support the enactment of BBL by Congress”—Abdula
DATU PAGLAS, MAGUINDANAO ---- “We must support the enactment of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by Congress”, said Professor Esmael A. Abdula, President of Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute during a peace forum organized in this town by the Bangsamoro Communication Network-Damakling Chapter.
Abdula emphasized that the leveling off understanding of the Mindanao peace process is one way of supporting the urgent enactment of the BBL BTC Version.
“Enacting the BBL will address the Moro Historical Injustices”, Abdula said.
“The BBL is a political document signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to end decade-long Mindanao armed conflict and achieve lasting peace in the region”, Abdula added.
Abdula said the MILF affirms that a negotiated political settlement is the key to lasting peace in Mindanao.
Abdula further said “Moro legitimate struggle is aimed towards establishing Bangsamoro political entity.”
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1352/---we-must-support-the-enactment-of-bbl-by-congress------abdula
DATU PAGLAS, MAGUINDANAO ---- “We must support the enactment of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by Congress”, said Professor Esmael A. Abdula, President of Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute during a peace forum organized in this town by the Bangsamoro Communication Network-Damakling Chapter.
Abdula emphasized that the leveling off understanding of the Mindanao peace process is one way of supporting the urgent enactment of the BBL BTC Version.
“Enacting the BBL will address the Moro Historical Injustices”, Abdula said.
“The BBL is a political document signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to end decade-long Mindanao armed conflict and achieve lasting peace in the region”, Abdula added.
Abdula said the MILF affirms that a negotiated political settlement is the key to lasting peace in Mindanao.
Abdula further said “Moro legitimate struggle is aimed towards establishing Bangsamoro political entity.”
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1352/---we-must-support-the-enactment-of-bbl-by-congress------abdula
NDF/Julie de Lima: Wage increase is necessary for national economic development
Julie de Lima propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (May 29): Wage increase is necessary for national economic development
Reference: J de Lima
Chairperson NDFP RWC-SER | Press statement
The popular demand of workers for increase in the national minimum wage is just and necessary. The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) should heed the call. “An across-the-board national wage increase is beneficial not only to the country’s work force but also for the comprehensive development of the national economy to benefit the entire people,” says Julie de Lima, chairperson of the Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (RWC-SER).
“The GRP should immediately respond to the wage increase demand to increase the purchasing power of the people, enliven the domestic market and encourage production.” Labor groups are demanding for an urgent national minimum wage increase ranging from Php750-Php800 daily to counter the burdening effects of TRAIN and the successive oil price hikes. “The GRP’s response to thecalls for a wage increase is long overdue. A significant wage increase would help to jumpstart national economic development that benefits the entire Philippine populace, including small, medium and big business, as we envision in the NDFP Draft CASER.”
“All the alibis of big businesses and the NEDA threatening massive job loss and company closures if wage hike for workers is implemented have been debunked decades ago. It is high time that the GRP seriously consider implementing significant minimum wage increase to bridge the gap between workers’ depressed wages and the sky-rocketing cost of living,” De Lima said.
“We are not simply talking about economic relief here. Prices of basic utilities, food stuff, fares and services have incessantly gone up. Workers and employees’ purchasing power has severely weakened, and the real value of the Philippine Peso has been eroded many times over.” “Keeping the workers’ wages low has worked to the detriment not only of the working masses but also to the stagnation of the entire Philippine economy in the mire of semifeudal and semicolonial existence,” De Lima said.
Wage increase and other benefits for Filipino workers is part of the NDFP’s Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) draft under the section Rights of the Working People. They will help to create a conducive environment for the resumption of the formal peace negotiations that will discuss, and agree on the entirety of CASER.
https://www.ndfp.org/wage-increase-is-necessary-for-national-economic-development/
Reference: J de Lima
Chairperson NDFP RWC-SER | Press statement
NDFP Reciprocal Committee on Socio-Economic Reforms Chair Julie de Lima
The popular demand of workers for increase in the national minimum wage is just and necessary. The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) should heed the call. “An across-the-board national wage increase is beneficial not only to the country’s work force but also for the comprehensive development of the national economy to benefit the entire people,” says Julie de Lima, chairperson of the Reciprocal Working Committee on Social and Economic Reforms of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (RWC-SER).
“The GRP should immediately respond to the wage increase demand to increase the purchasing power of the people, enliven the domestic market and encourage production.” Labor groups are demanding for an urgent national minimum wage increase ranging from Php750-Php800 daily to counter the burdening effects of TRAIN and the successive oil price hikes. “The GRP’s response to thecalls for a wage increase is long overdue. A significant wage increase would help to jumpstart national economic development that benefits the entire Philippine populace, including small, medium and big business, as we envision in the NDFP Draft CASER.”
“All the alibis of big businesses and the NEDA threatening massive job loss and company closures if wage hike for workers is implemented have been debunked decades ago. It is high time that the GRP seriously consider implementing significant minimum wage increase to bridge the gap between workers’ depressed wages and the sky-rocketing cost of living,” De Lima said.
“We are not simply talking about economic relief here. Prices of basic utilities, food stuff, fares and services have incessantly gone up. Workers and employees’ purchasing power has severely weakened, and the real value of the Philippine Peso has been eroded many times over.” “Keeping the workers’ wages low has worked to the detriment not only of the working masses but also to the stagnation of the entire Philippine economy in the mire of semifeudal and semicolonial existence,” De Lima said.
Wage increase and other benefits for Filipino workers is part of the NDFP’s Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) draft under the section Rights of the Working People. They will help to create a conducive environment for the resumption of the formal peace negotiations that will discuss, and agree on the entirety of CASER.
https://www.ndfp.org/wage-increase-is-necessary-for-national-economic-development/
NDF/Julie de Lima: ‘Basic reforms must be the cornerstone of an interim peace agreement’
Julie de Lima propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (May 28): ‘Basic reforms must be the cornerstone of an interim peace agreement’
Reference: J de Lima
Chairperson, NDFP RWC-SER
Press Statement | May 28, 2018
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines – Reciprocal Working Group on Social and Economic Reforms (NDFP RWC-SER) welcomes the reported possible signing of an interim peace agreement. This is a sign of movement in the stalled peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
Bilateral teams of the RWC-SER, have agreed on the common drafts of ARRD and NIED. The still unresolved contentious issues are being referred to the RWC-SERs of the two Parties for resolution before negotiations at the level of the GRP-NDFP Negotiating Panels.
ARRD and NIED are two major sections of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER), the second substantive agenda in in the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations. Five other substantive parts of CASER still need to be discussed. These include: Environmental Protection, Rehabilitation and Compensation (EPRC), Rights of the Working People, Monetary and Fiscal Policy and Foreign Economic Trade relations.
Parties are expected to return to the formal negotiating table in June 2018.
https://www.ndfp.org/basic-reforms-must-be-the-cornerstone-of-an-interim-peace-agreement/
Reference: J de Lima
Chairperson, NDFP RWC-SER
Press Statement | May 28, 2018
NDFP Reciprocal Committee on Socio-Economic Reforms Chair Julie de Lima
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines – Reciprocal Working Group on Social and Economic Reforms (NDFP RWC-SER) welcomes the reported possible signing of an interim peace agreement. This is a sign of movement in the stalled peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
“This would be a significant development in the peace process, only if the interim peace agreement includes basic social reforms. The NDFP has always been consistent that social and economic reforms must be the cornerstone of any peace agreement.” said NDFP RWC-SER chairperson Julie de Lima.De Lima said that the inclusion of the Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (ARRD) and the National Industrialization and Economic Development (NIED) in the interim peace agreement would be the most significant step in the peace negotiations. It would be the first steo towards addressing the roots of the armed conflict.”
Bilateral teams of the RWC-SER, have agreed on the common drafts of ARRD and NIED. The still unresolved contentious issues are being referred to the RWC-SERs of the two Parties for resolution before negotiations at the level of the GRP-NDFP Negotiating Panels.
ARRD and NIED are two major sections of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER), the second substantive agenda in in the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations. Five other substantive parts of CASER still need to be discussed. These include: Environmental Protection, Rehabilitation and Compensation (EPRC), Rights of the Working People, Monetary and Fiscal Policy and Foreign Economic Trade relations.
“Genuine agrarian reform with rural industrial development and national industrial and economic development that benefits and protects the rights of the working people are among the many issues at the heart of any peace agreement. Ceasefire alone will not resolve the centuries-old problems from which the Filipino masses have struggled to break free,” NDFP RWC-SER chairperson said.She added that apart from pushing for basic social services, previously-signed agreements, such as the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and the Joint Agreement on safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG), must also be complied with as a matter of justice.
Parties are expected to return to the formal negotiating table in June 2018.
https://www.ndfp.org/basic-reforms-must-be-the-cornerstone-of-an-interim-peace-agreement/
NDF/Jalandoni: NDFP warmly congratulates Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr.
Jalandoni propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website: NDFP warmly congratulates Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr.
on His Election as BISHOP of the EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL PHILIPPINES
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) warmly congratulates Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. on his being elected Bishop of the EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL PHILIPPINES, Episcopal Church in the Philippines.
We in the NDFP know very well that he has all the qualities of a Church leader who has proven in his life his dedication and service to the Filipino people. He certainly deserves to be given this high and responsible function for the benefit of the people.
We know Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. very well. He has generously accepted to be the NDFP Nominated Independent Observer of the Joint Monitoring Commitee (JMC) under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. (extreme right) during the 2nd Round of GRP-NDFP Peace Talks in Oslo 2016 / Photo by Randy Malayao
Despite his many tasks and duties for the Church and his people, he fulfills with dedication and enthusiasm his important work as NDFP Nominated Independent Observer in the JMC. He attends and actively participates in the meetings of the JMC, whether in Manila or abroad. His participation is appreciated and welcomed by both the NDFP and GRP members of the JMC. He gives concrete proposals for the improvement of the work of the JMC.
We appeciate vey much his dedicated work as a staunch advocate for a just and lasting peace. We have witnessed his fine work as Co-Chairperson of the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP) which has strongly called for: “Resume Peace Talks Now! Respect All Agreements! Address the Roots of the Armed Conflict!”
We convey our most heartfelt best wishes to him on his being elected Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Philippines!
Luis G. Jalandoni
Member, National Executive Committee
Senior Adviser, NDFP Negotiating Panel
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-warmly-congratulates-rev-rex-rb-reyes-jr/
on His Election as BISHOP of the EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL PHILIPPINES
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) warmly congratulates Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. on his being elected Bishop of the EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL PHILIPPINES, Episcopal Church in the Philippines.
We in the NDFP know very well that he has all the qualities of a Church leader who has proven in his life his dedication and service to the Filipino people. He certainly deserves to be given this high and responsible function for the benefit of the people.
We know Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. very well. He has generously accepted to be the NDFP Nominated Independent Observer of the Joint Monitoring Commitee (JMC) under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
Rev. Rex RB Reyes, Jr. (extreme right) during the 2nd Round of GRP-NDFP Peace Talks in Oslo 2016 / Photo by Randy Malayao
Despite his many tasks and duties for the Church and his people, he fulfills with dedication and enthusiasm his important work as NDFP Nominated Independent Observer in the JMC. He attends and actively participates in the meetings of the JMC, whether in Manila or abroad. His participation is appreciated and welcomed by both the NDFP and GRP members of the JMC. He gives concrete proposals for the improvement of the work of the JMC.
We appeciate vey much his dedicated work as a staunch advocate for a just and lasting peace. We have witnessed his fine work as Co-Chairperson of the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP) which has strongly called for: “Resume Peace Talks Now! Respect All Agreements! Address the Roots of the Armed Conflict!”
We convey our most heartfelt best wishes to him on his being elected Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Philippines!
Luis G. Jalandoni
Member, National Executive Committee
Senior Adviser, NDFP Negotiating Panel
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-warmly-congratulates-rev-rex-rb-reyes-jr/
CPP Information Bureau: Unite to oppose the National ID system
CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 26): Unite to oppose the National ID system
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
26 May 2018
Press Release
With the Senate leadership recently usurped by Duterte apologist and minion Tito Sotto, with the Supreme Court, now free of Duterte arch-critic Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno, and with the rubber-stamp lower house of Congress, the enactment of the National ID system by the fascist Duterte now seems to be imminent. This totalitarian measure was first proposed more than two decades ago and has long been fiercely resisted by democratic sectors.
Wielding his new unbound powers, Duterte is now testing the waters with his push to enact the fascist National ID system. If he could get away with this, it is likely that he will push with far more insidious measures such as the plan for charter change to give Duterte greater authority, including less restrictions on his power to declare martial law, and pave the way for perpetuating himself in power under one or another pretext.
The National ID system will practically be reviving the detested cedula system which the Spanish colonial power used to control the movement of people and suppress their democratic rights. In the hands of Duterte, the National ID system is bound to be a weapon of suppression, a weapon of mass monitoring and surveillance to track everyone’s movement, and to bribe and arm-twist, especially against Duterte’s political critics and dissenters.
The Party urges all democratic sectors to unite firmly and oppose vigorously the National ID system, advance their resistance against Duterte’s various dictatorial schemes and his fascist abuses under Oplan Kapayapaan and Mindanao martial law, fight the regime’s anti-people and burdensome policies especially against the workers, peasants and oppressed economic classes, and put an end to widespread and large-scale corruption, surrender of the country’s sovereignty and subservience to foreign imperialist interests.
Please read further below the slightly edited statement by the CPP Information Bureau first issued on September 5, 2017.
National ID system in the hands of murderous strongman will have dreadful results
Duterte’s feverish push to implement a National ID system is part of his machinations to establish a totalitarian state of mass surveillance, population control, social, political and criminal profiling and mass murder.
The draft law of the National ID system has been bulldozed by Duterte’s supermajority of political allies in the House of Representatives. Will the GRP Senate pass the proposed ID system with similar dispatch and prove itself to be no more than a rubberstamp than the lower house is?
The Party joins the Filipino people in opposing the National ID system. In the hands of the Duterte regime, especially its security, military and police agencies, the National ID system will serve as an additional weapon for fascist suppression. There will be dreadful results once such a weapon is placed in the hands of a strong-man tyrant as Duterte who is obsessed with summary killings and mass murder as “solution” to social problems, to silence his political opponents and suppress people’s resistance.
Such a system has long been proposed by the AFP and PNP and US military and security advisers to facilitate mass surveillance through the centralization of the collection and storage (or databasing) of personal information. Past regimes have failed to push the National ID system confronted with popular opposition. The US imperialists will congratulate Duterte if he succeeds on ramming the repressive system.
Duterte’s proposed system aims to collect an inclusive list of personal information in violation of civil rights. Duterte’s National ID system will be a deathblow to privacy rights. In the hands of a repressive and oppressive state, the collection of such information will surely be weaponized and used as a tool for mass surveillance, social, political and criminal profiling.
In many capitalist countries, centralized databases of personal information collected officially as well as illegally have been used by military and security agencies for mass surveillance and “terrorist profiling” leading to stigmatizing of social, religious and political groups and false accusations against individuals.
To conceal its insidious aims and dupe the people to support the proposed identification system, the Duterte regime makes false claims that the National ID will serve to expedite the delivery of government service. Such claims are put to dispute by the fact that the Duterte regime continues to cut the budget for public education and public health and other important social services.
How can a National ID system help facilitate the provision of public health when government hospitals are, in fact, being commercialized and privatized in whole and in part? If the priority of government is to provide everyone with free public health, free education, free public housing, public transportation and so on, there is no need for a National ID system for the people to benefit from these. A national system of identification has nothing to do with the efficiency in the provision of public service.
Neither does computerization make a clean government. This is starkly demonstrated by continuing widespread corruption in government agencies which has computerized its record-keeping and processing. Manipulation of election results in the Philippines have become more widespread, albeit less obvious, through automation.
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
26 May 2018
Press Release
With the Senate leadership recently usurped by Duterte apologist and minion Tito Sotto, with the Supreme Court, now free of Duterte arch-critic Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno, and with the rubber-stamp lower house of Congress, the enactment of the National ID system by the fascist Duterte now seems to be imminent. This totalitarian measure was first proposed more than two decades ago and has long been fiercely resisted by democratic sectors.
Wielding his new unbound powers, Duterte is now testing the waters with his push to enact the fascist National ID system. If he could get away with this, it is likely that he will push with far more insidious measures such as the plan for charter change to give Duterte greater authority, including less restrictions on his power to declare martial law, and pave the way for perpetuating himself in power under one or another pretext.
The National ID system will practically be reviving the detested cedula system which the Spanish colonial power used to control the movement of people and suppress their democratic rights. In the hands of Duterte, the National ID system is bound to be a weapon of suppression, a weapon of mass monitoring and surveillance to track everyone’s movement, and to bribe and arm-twist, especially against Duterte’s political critics and dissenters.
The Party urges all democratic sectors to unite firmly and oppose vigorously the National ID system, advance their resistance against Duterte’s various dictatorial schemes and his fascist abuses under Oplan Kapayapaan and Mindanao martial law, fight the regime’s anti-people and burdensome policies especially against the workers, peasants and oppressed economic classes, and put an end to widespread and large-scale corruption, surrender of the country’s sovereignty and subservience to foreign imperialist interests.
Please read further below the slightly edited statement by the CPP Information Bureau first issued on September 5, 2017.
National ID system in the hands of murderous strongman will have dreadful results
Duterte’s feverish push to implement a National ID system is part of his machinations to establish a totalitarian state of mass surveillance, population control, social, political and criminal profiling and mass murder.
The draft law of the National ID system has been bulldozed by Duterte’s supermajority of political allies in the House of Representatives. Will the GRP Senate pass the proposed ID system with similar dispatch and prove itself to be no more than a rubberstamp than the lower house is?
The Party joins the Filipino people in opposing the National ID system. In the hands of the Duterte regime, especially its security, military and police agencies, the National ID system will serve as an additional weapon for fascist suppression. There will be dreadful results once such a weapon is placed in the hands of a strong-man tyrant as Duterte who is obsessed with summary killings and mass murder as “solution” to social problems, to silence his political opponents and suppress people’s resistance.
Such a system has long been proposed by the AFP and PNP and US military and security advisers to facilitate mass surveillance through the centralization of the collection and storage (or databasing) of personal information. Past regimes have failed to push the National ID system confronted with popular opposition. The US imperialists will congratulate Duterte if he succeeds on ramming the repressive system.
Duterte’s proposed system aims to collect an inclusive list of personal information in violation of civil rights. Duterte’s National ID system will be a deathblow to privacy rights. In the hands of a repressive and oppressive state, the collection of such information will surely be weaponized and used as a tool for mass surveillance, social, political and criminal profiling.
In many capitalist countries, centralized databases of personal information collected officially as well as illegally have been used by military and security agencies for mass surveillance and “terrorist profiling” leading to stigmatizing of social, religious and political groups and false accusations against individuals.
To conceal its insidious aims and dupe the people to support the proposed identification system, the Duterte regime makes false claims that the National ID will serve to expedite the delivery of government service. Such claims are put to dispute by the fact that the Duterte regime continues to cut the budget for public education and public health and other important social services.
How can a National ID system help facilitate the provision of public health when government hospitals are, in fact, being commercialized and privatized in whole and in part? If the priority of government is to provide everyone with free public health, free education, free public housing, public transportation and so on, there is no need for a National ID system for the people to benefit from these. A national system of identification has nothing to do with the efficiency in the provision of public service.
Neither does computerization make a clean government. This is starkly demonstrated by continuing widespread corruption in government agencies which has computerized its record-keeping and processing. Manipulation of election results in the Philippines have become more widespread, albeit less obvious, through automation.
CPP/NPA-Eastern Panay: Paslawon sang BHB kag Rebolusyunaryong Pwersa sang Eastern Front ang Kontra-insurhensyang Pagpang-atake sang AFP
NPA-Eastern Panay propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 28): Paslawon sang BHB kag Rebolusyunaryong Pwersa sang Eastern Front ang Kontra-insurhensyang Pagpang-atake sang AFP
Rojo Silangan, Spokesperson
NPA-Eastern Panay (Nonito Aguirre, Sr. Command)
28 May 2018
Paslawon kag pirdihon sang Bagong Hukbong Bayan kag rebolusyunaryong pwersa sang Eastern Front sang Panay ang sunod-sunod kag dalagkoan nga operasyong militar kag kampanyang pagpamintas sa pumuluyo idalum sang Oplan Kapayapaan sang teroristang rehimeng US-Duterte.
Sa sulod sang lima pa lang ka bulan, duha ka dalagko kag sustenidong operasyong militar ang ginlunsar sang mersenaryong tropa sang AFP sa mga kaumhan sa mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon kag Lemery. Nagatinguha ang ini nga mga operasyon nga “tapuson” ang yunit sang NPA sa Eastern Front sang Panay nga sang nagligad nga Nobyembre nakaagum sang depensiba.
Ang unang hugnat ginlunsar sang Pebrero 11 tubtob 25 sa komposit nga mga kompanya sang 61st IB kag 31st DRC. Ini nga dalagko nga operation militar gintigayon para sa pagbisita sang teroristang presidente Duterte sa napatay nga OFW nga si Joanna Daniela Demafiles sa Sara, Iloilo. Naggamit ini sang 150 tubtob 200 ka tropa sang kaaway nga nagsakop sang mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon sa Capiz kag sa Sara kag Lemery sa Northern Iloilo.
Ang ikaduhang hugnat ginlunsar sadtong Marso 29 tubtob Abril 23 sa isa ka test mission sang ginpatihan nga bag-ong graduate nga batalyon nga 94th IB kag composite sang 61st IB sang AFP, Special Action Force kag Mobile Groups sa PNP. Naggamit man sang indi magnubo sa 200 ka tropa sang kaaway ang gindeploy sa mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon kag Lemery.
Matapos ang test mission, padayon ang 61st IB sa pag-operasyon sa mga kaumhan sang Cuartero kag Dumarao sa maskara sang “election visibility” sa mga ginapatihan nga election hotspots kag sa mga baryo nga ginapatihan nga impluwensyado sang rebolusyonaryong hublag.
Nag-entra man ang 61st IB sa barangay election paagi sa pagpanatag sang mga leaflets kag nagakampanya nga indi pagbotohon ang mga kandidato nga nagasuporta sa NPA. Sandig sa binutig ni LTC Sisenando A. Magbalot Jr sang 61st IB, indi mapanginwala ang ginpanagtag kag nagalapta nga mga leaflets sa mga interyor nga kabaryohanan sang Dumarao kag Cuartero.
Napaslawan ang tropang AFP sa ini nga mga desperadong operasyong militar nga nagatinguha nga ipaatubang ang unit sang BHB sa isa ka estratehikong engkwentro paagi sa pagdeploy sa madamu nga mersenaryong tropa kag paggamit sang mga drones kag hitech nga kagamitan militar kag para mabutang sa peligro ang BHB kag rebolusyonaryong pwersa.
Sa tunga sang sini nga mga dalagko kag sustenido nga mga pagpangatake, napaslawan ang AFP bangud kay ginaangkon sang BHB ang malapad kag mabaskog nga suportang masa para taguon ang ila nga Hangaway, kag sa paghatag impormasyon sa pagtultol sa mga lokasyon sang kaaway kag iban pa nga bulnerabilidad sang nahamulag nga mersenaryong tropa.
Bangud sa desperasyon, ginasustenir sang kaaway ang Peace and Development Teams (PDTs) sa mga interyor nga kabaryohan sang Capiz sa Eastern Front sa pagtinguha nga mapahuyang ang suporta sang masa. Ini nga mga kabaryohanan, sa pila na ka dekada, nag-agum sang mga kadalag-an sang minimum kag maksimum nga reporma sa lupa kag padayon nga nag-angkon sang iban pa nga mga kadalag-an sa agraryong rebolusyon nga ginlunsar sang NPA.
Desperadong nagatinguha man ang kaaway nga pahuyangon ang suporta sang mga masa sa rebolusyon paagi sa pagpangsaywar sa mga kaparyentihan sang mga NPA, ginapatihan nila nga mga supporter sang NPA, mga lider sang progresibong organisasyon, pilit nga pagpapirma sang mga pumuluyo para ipagwa nga mga “NPA surrenderees,” kag malawigan nga pagpondo sa mga brgy health center, brgy hall, simbahan kag mga gym sang kabaryohanan.
Apang nagatindog ang pumuluyo para ipakigbato ang ila nga tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag nagademanda sang pagpahalin sang tropang militar sa ila mga kabaryohanan. Indi nila luyag nga matabo liwat ang ginhimo nga wala kaluoy nga pagpatay sang mga inosente nga mangunguma nga sanday Ian kag Rolando Borres sang amo man nga mga tropa sang tinalikdan nga tuig. Sa pagpabutyag sang mga pumuluyo sa publiko sang ini nga mga paglapas, dali-dali nga nagmontar ang 61st IB sang isa ka pakuno-kuno nga CIVAC ukon medical mission sa Brgy Putian, Cuartero sang Mayo 25 para ipagwa nga lehitimo ang ila nga presensya sa amo nga baryo kag katambi pa nga mga baryo.
Handa ang unit sang BHB kag mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa Eastern Front sang Panay nga paslawon kag perdihon ang magaabot pa nga mga operasyong militar nga ilunsar sang mga tropa sang teroristang presidente Duterte paagi sa paglunsar sang mga taktikal nga opensiba.
Mapaslawan ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa iya nga kontra-insurhensyang Oplan Kapayapaan bangud sa pagkamaduguon, terorismo kag kontra-pumuluyo sini. Ang pangunahon nga kahuyangan sang ini nga Oplan amo ang korapsyon sa pinakapusod mismo sang AFP ni Duterte nga ginaagawan sang mga dalagko nga heneral sang AFP k kag burukrasyang militar sang commander-in-chief.
Ang pangpulitika kag pang-ekonomiya nga krisis sa pungsod subong nga labi nga nga ginpalala ni Duterte, ang padayon nga Martial Law sa Mindanao kag ang mga operasyon militar sa kaumhan sa bilog nga pungsod, magpalala pa sa kahimtangan sa palangabuhian sang pumuluyo nga mas labi pa kabudlay kaysa nagliligad nga mga dekada. Labi pa nga magahatag ini sang kahigayunan sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan kag bilog nga rebolusyonaryong pwersa nga lab-oton pa ang mga pumuluyo nga handa nga bag-ohon ang katilingban paagi sa pag-upod sa armadong rebolusyon.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180528-paslawon-sang-bhb-kag-rebolusyunaryong-pwersa-sang-eastern-front-ang-kontra-insurhensyang-p
Rojo Silangan, Spokesperson
NPA-Eastern Panay (Nonito Aguirre, Sr. Command)
28 May 2018
Paslawon kag pirdihon sang Bagong Hukbong Bayan kag rebolusyunaryong pwersa sang Eastern Front sang Panay ang sunod-sunod kag dalagkoan nga operasyong militar kag kampanyang pagpamintas sa pumuluyo idalum sang Oplan Kapayapaan sang teroristang rehimeng US-Duterte.
Sa sulod sang lima pa lang ka bulan, duha ka dalagko kag sustenidong operasyong militar ang ginlunsar sang mersenaryong tropa sang AFP sa mga kaumhan sa mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon kag Lemery. Nagatinguha ang ini nga mga operasyon nga “tapuson” ang yunit sang NPA sa Eastern Front sang Panay nga sang nagligad nga Nobyembre nakaagum sang depensiba.
Ang unang hugnat ginlunsar sang Pebrero 11 tubtob 25 sa komposit nga mga kompanya sang 61st IB kag 31st DRC. Ini nga dalagko nga operation militar gintigayon para sa pagbisita sang teroristang presidente Duterte sa napatay nga OFW nga si Joanna Daniela Demafiles sa Sara, Iloilo. Naggamit ini sang 150 tubtob 200 ka tropa sang kaaway nga nagsakop sang mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon sa Capiz kag sa Sara kag Lemery sa Northern Iloilo.
Ang ikaduhang hugnat ginlunsar sadtong Marso 29 tubtob Abril 23 sa isa ka test mission sang ginpatihan nga bag-ong graduate nga batalyon nga 94th IB kag composite sang 61st IB sang AFP, Special Action Force kag Mobile Groups sa PNP. Naggamit man sang indi magnubo sa 200 ka tropa sang kaaway ang gindeploy sa mga banwa sang Dumarao, Cuartero, Maayon kag Lemery.
Matapos ang test mission, padayon ang 61st IB sa pag-operasyon sa mga kaumhan sang Cuartero kag Dumarao sa maskara sang “election visibility” sa mga ginapatihan nga election hotspots kag sa mga baryo nga ginapatihan nga impluwensyado sang rebolusyonaryong hublag.
Nag-entra man ang 61st IB sa barangay election paagi sa pagpanatag sang mga leaflets kag nagakampanya nga indi pagbotohon ang mga kandidato nga nagasuporta sa NPA. Sandig sa binutig ni LTC Sisenando A. Magbalot Jr sang 61st IB, indi mapanginwala ang ginpanagtag kag nagalapta nga mga leaflets sa mga interyor nga kabaryohanan sang Dumarao kag Cuartero.
Napaslawan ang tropang AFP sa ini nga mga desperadong operasyong militar nga nagatinguha nga ipaatubang ang unit sang BHB sa isa ka estratehikong engkwentro paagi sa pagdeploy sa madamu nga mersenaryong tropa kag paggamit sang mga drones kag hitech nga kagamitan militar kag para mabutang sa peligro ang BHB kag rebolusyonaryong pwersa.
Sa tunga sang sini nga mga dalagko kag sustenido nga mga pagpangatake, napaslawan ang AFP bangud kay ginaangkon sang BHB ang malapad kag mabaskog nga suportang masa para taguon ang ila nga Hangaway, kag sa paghatag impormasyon sa pagtultol sa mga lokasyon sang kaaway kag iban pa nga bulnerabilidad sang nahamulag nga mersenaryong tropa.
Bangud sa desperasyon, ginasustenir sang kaaway ang Peace and Development Teams (PDTs) sa mga interyor nga kabaryohan sang Capiz sa Eastern Front sa pagtinguha nga mapahuyang ang suporta sang masa. Ini nga mga kabaryohanan, sa pila na ka dekada, nag-agum sang mga kadalag-an sang minimum kag maksimum nga reporma sa lupa kag padayon nga nag-angkon sang iban pa nga mga kadalag-an sa agraryong rebolusyon nga ginlunsar sang NPA.
Desperadong nagatinguha man ang kaaway nga pahuyangon ang suporta sang mga masa sa rebolusyon paagi sa pagpangsaywar sa mga kaparyentihan sang mga NPA, ginapatihan nila nga mga supporter sang NPA, mga lider sang progresibong organisasyon, pilit nga pagpapirma sang mga pumuluyo para ipagwa nga mga “NPA surrenderees,” kag malawigan nga pagpondo sa mga brgy health center, brgy hall, simbahan kag mga gym sang kabaryohanan.
Apang nagatindog ang pumuluyo para ipakigbato ang ila nga tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag nagademanda sang pagpahalin sang tropang militar sa ila mga kabaryohanan. Indi nila luyag nga matabo liwat ang ginhimo nga wala kaluoy nga pagpatay sang mga inosente nga mangunguma nga sanday Ian kag Rolando Borres sang amo man nga mga tropa sang tinalikdan nga tuig. Sa pagpabutyag sang mga pumuluyo sa publiko sang ini nga mga paglapas, dali-dali nga nagmontar ang 61st IB sang isa ka pakuno-kuno nga CIVAC ukon medical mission sa Brgy Putian, Cuartero sang Mayo 25 para ipagwa nga lehitimo ang ila nga presensya sa amo nga baryo kag katambi pa nga mga baryo.
Handa ang unit sang BHB kag mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa Eastern Front sang Panay nga paslawon kag perdihon ang magaabot pa nga mga operasyong militar nga ilunsar sang mga tropa sang teroristang presidente Duterte paagi sa paglunsar sang mga taktikal nga opensiba.
Mapaslawan ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa iya nga kontra-insurhensyang Oplan Kapayapaan bangud sa pagkamaduguon, terorismo kag kontra-pumuluyo sini. Ang pangunahon nga kahuyangan sang ini nga Oplan amo ang korapsyon sa pinakapusod mismo sang AFP ni Duterte nga ginaagawan sang mga dalagko nga heneral sang AFP k kag burukrasyang militar sang commander-in-chief.
Ang pangpulitika kag pang-ekonomiya nga krisis sa pungsod subong nga labi nga nga ginpalala ni Duterte, ang padayon nga Martial Law sa Mindanao kag ang mga operasyon militar sa kaumhan sa bilog nga pungsod, magpalala pa sa kahimtangan sa palangabuhian sang pumuluyo nga mas labi pa kabudlay kaysa nagliligad nga mga dekada. Labi pa nga magahatag ini sang kahigayunan sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan kag bilog nga rebolusyonaryong pwersa nga lab-oton pa ang mga pumuluyo nga handa nga bag-ohon ang katilingban paagi sa pag-upod sa armadong rebolusyon.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20180528-paslawon-sang-bhb-kag-rebolusyunaryong-pwersa-sang-eastern-front-ang-kontra-insurhensyang-p