Sunday, August 25, 2019

Navy to acquire patrol vessels via gov't-to'gov't deal

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26, 2019): Navy to acquire patrol vessels via gov't-to'gov't deal



Philippine Navy logo. (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s offshore patrol vessel (OPV) project will be acquired via the so-called government-to-government procurement approach.

"Yes, because we are availing of Australian government financing (for the project)," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) over the weekend.

Government-to-government is an advantage as it does not require a large capital outlay and has sovereign guarantee aside from the equipment being acquired much easier and faster.

The OPV project aims to acquire six brand-new ships for PHP30 billion, a project that Australia-based global shipbuilder and defense contractor Austal has expressed interest to participate in.

Austal is offering a larger version of its 80-meter Cape-class patrol vessels being used by the Royal Australian Navy and Australian Border Force. Earlier, Lorenzana said the PN is preferring a government-to-government approach in acquiring the vessels.

"Government-to-government is (the procurement process being favored) by the PN," the DND chief said.

The OPVs are part of Horizon Two of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and expected to replace the World War II corvettes and minesweepers still in PN service as of this time.

On Friday, Lorenzana said the South Korean government expressed interest to fund the PN's corvette acquisition project, which aims to acquire two anti-submarine ships to boost up the PN fleet. He said a government-to-government approach would be an advantage for the Philippines.

The budget for the CAP, he said, is placed between PHP28 to PHP30 billion.

Lorenzana said while the country is yet to sign a contract with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for the two corvettes, the PN is recommending the company construct these ships for commonality and interoperability.

The two Jose Rizal-missile frigates, which is also being constructed by HHI for PHP18 billion, including its weapon systems and munition, is expected to be delivered by next year, with the lead ship, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), expected by April 2020 and the second ship, BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), by September of the same year.

Asked on how the process will take, Lorenzana said he expects it to be done as soon as possible, adding that the concerned parties are now doing the paperwork.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078714

Opinion: Ending communist insurgency

Opinion piece by Marit Stinus-Cabugon posted to the Manila Times (Aug 26, 2019): Ending communist insurgency

THAT the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its above-ground and underground affiliated organizations recruit in schools is quite old news, the recent publicity surrounding the matter notwithstanding. The past holds countless cases of college students who ended up in the mountains. Political science student Marvin Marquez, killed in a New People’s Army camp in Trinidad, Bohol, in July 2000, and 21-year-old nursing graduate Rachelle Mae Palang who perished in southern Negros Oriental in September 2008 are among Cebu’s most known cases of students getting involved in student activism that was a precursor to joining the NPA. This being said and even if I do not agree with the way the two pursued political and socio-economic change, even if I believe they were misguided, I see Marvin and Rachelle Mae as heroes because they chose a life away from comfort, driven by a desire to help poor farmers in the forgotten, far-off villages of Central Visayas. I knew Marvin and he was a good kid.

Their deaths are, of course, sayang. These two young persons could have accomplished more alive, fighting poverty and injustice through non-violent means.

Marvin and Rachelle Mae were recruited into the communist movement through the League of Filipino Students and College Editors Guild of the Philippines, respectively. Since the communists, unlike the government, are remarkably consistent, I don’t think this path of recruitment has changed. Neither have the encouragement, influencing, coaxing, manipulation and coercion employed by faculty members zealous to provide young blood to the movement. Many students join voluntarily but others are driven into a corner from where there is only one exit — and it leads to the mountains. Yes, this has been going on even in state universities. It is appalling and unacceptable.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) emphasizes that the department has “no problem with student activism,” or “youths who are critical thinkers,” and that “criticism, protest and resistance is part and parcel of democratic politics.” What the DILG — the government — has a problem with is when “the democratic space provided by the Constitution” is used “as a front or excuse to recruit, train, and wage armed struggle against duly constituted authority.” That “becomes a criminal act and must be prevented by the state,” according to DILG spokesman Jonathan Malaya (Aug. 22, 2019).

It is precisely the armed struggle that is the problem with the communists and the National Democratic Front, whose very existence is tied up with defending and furthering the armed struggle. Look at the Defend Negros campaign. Its updated (as of July 26) list of “EJK victims in Negros since Duterte became president” contains 87 names of persons killed in the two Negros provinces from Jan. 20, 2017 to July 28 2019. But the list is selective. Example: It does not include at least 15 – fifteen – victims killed in Negros this year between June 6 and July 18. The NPA has officially claimed six of these killings. Is the abduction and execution of policemen not condemnable? Other victims were unarmed civilians, shot dead without warning.

Negros could benefit from the peace and development approach adopted by the military and the government in Davao City. Army Community Development Teams are deployed for eight months. The teams work closely with barangay officials, police, city government and national agencies in addressing the specific concerns of a particular area and in bringing the needed services. This strategy works! Less than two years ago, 83 of Davao City’s 182 barangays were insurgency-affected (Manila-Shimbun, June 14, 2018). Today only 16 of the 83 remain to be cleared, according to the 1003rd Infantry Brigade’s Col. Nolasco Mempin. The deadline set by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio for the remaining barangay to be declared “cleared, peaceful and conflict-resilient communities” is before the end of the year.

The poverty in Paquibato District helped make it an NPA stronghold and an NPA base “for the longest time,” the term used by Colonel Mempin (Sun Star Davao, August 21). This was where Leoncio “Ka Parago” Pitao lived and made his last stand on June 28, 2015. On Dec. 26, 2016, the NPA camp in Brgy. Lumiad hosted 300 NPA combatants and some 3,000 CPP members and supporters, gathered to celebrate the CPP anniversary.

Poverty remains. Three barangay in Paquibato top the list of acute malnutrition prevalence in children under age five in Davao City, according to the City Health Office. Barangay Sumimao has a staggering 18.64 percent wasting prevalence rate among young children. The figures for Pandaitan and Colosas are 10.1 percent and 6.78 percent, respectively. The rate for the entire city is 0.72 percent (Davao Today, July 5, 2019).

Davao City has been a source of NPA funding and recruitment for decades. The dismantling of the “CPP-NPA politico-military structure” in the city is making the imminent clearing of the rest of Mindanao a realistic goal.

MILF: MP Ahang gives updates to Tawi-Tawi residents

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Aug 25, 2019): MP Ahang gives updates to Tawi-Tawi residents


IN PHOTO- MP Abdulla Ahang (in white polo shirt) answers queries from the audience during the open forum.

ONGAO TAWI-TAWI --  Professor Abdulla A. Ahang, Member of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) provided updates to his constituents Wednesday on the status of BARMM, and issues related to Decommissioning of Combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Members of Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) in Tawi-Tawi are among the beneficiaries of the decommissioning process that will start September7 who can avail the socio-economic package from the national government.

The activity was attended by Community Leaders, sectorial representatives and officers from the provincial political Committee of the MILF, and heads of its line agencies as well as officers of United Bangsamoro Justice Parties (UBJP-Tawi-Tawi chapter.

MP Ahang, also the Provincial Chairman of Sama Province and UBJP Provincial Head made an appeal to his constituents to be more patient and supportive to BARMM Governance who had just started five months ago, and assured that the province and its constituents will reap the benefits of peace and development in the autonomous region.

In the open forum, MP Ahang interacted with his fellow Tawi-Tawian leaders tackling vital issues and concerns of the province and other related issues on BARMM. The candidates for decommissioning of Combatants were also properly oriented for the forthcoming of decommissioning program.

The program was held at Almary Beach Resort, Barangay Pahut, Bongao Tawi-Tawi. The program was organized by Mr. Radzhadin Ahang, UBJP Youth sector leader and facilitated by Mr. Saliakram M. Adduh, another youth leader and peace advocates along with political committee members, and UBJP Officers in Tawi-Tawi.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1885/mp-ahang-gives-updates-to-tawi-tawi-residents

MILF: Thousands of UNYPAD members attend 1ST North Cotabato Provincial-Wide Assembly

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Aug 25, 2019): Thousands of UNYPAD members attend 1ST North Cotabato Provincial-Wide Assembly



COTABATO CITY –Thousands of members of United Youth for Peace and Development North Cotabato Clusters attended the youth assembly on August 24, 2019 at Municipal gymnasium, Pikit North Cotabato with a theme “And hold firmly to the Rope of Allah (SWT) and do not become divided (Surah: Ali Imran)” organized by North Cotabato Cluster 2 Provincials Chapter.

The participants marched from municipal plaza of Pikit to municipal gymnasium participated in by municipal chapters of four municipalities of Aleosan, Pikit, Pagalungan and Datu Montawal.

The program formally started with the a Qur’anic reading by Provincial Committee on Da’wah and Education Ustadz Abdulhamid Sansawi.

Dr. Riya Mangindra UNYPAD Municipal Chairwoman of Pikit in her welcome remark was overwhelmed saying that he remembers his late father who also gave his life to the Bangsamoro struggle.

Riya said she feel and see the true brotherhood and sisterhood in UNYPAD. She further stressed that the Muslim youth should observed the proper teachings and guidance of Islam so that they will not go astray.

Badrudin Mamendig, Provincial Vice Chairman for External Affair presented the rationale of the program.

Atty. Lanang Ali Jr. Majority Floor Leader of Bangsamoro Parliament was the guest speaker. He emphasized the role of youth in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

MP Ali said that he had filed a resolution in the Bangsamoro Parliament creating a Parliament District for the 63 barangays of North Cotabato; the Pikit, Midsayap, Pigcawayan, Carmen and Aleosan that opted to join the BARMM during the plebiscite.

‘’The youth must continue organizing because our leaders today are getting old, and whether we like it or not, they will hand over the responsibility to the youth as the hope of Bangsamoro Government in the future,’’ MP Ali said.

Hamsa Landayan, UNYPAD Provincial Chairman of North Cotabato Cluster 2 delivered his State of Provincial Youth Address (SOPYA). He enumerated the successful activities in the different chapters of North Cotabato, and encouraged members to continue the struggle until the Bangsamoro achieves full implementation of all the peace agreements.

In preparation for engaging in democratic struggle, Hamsa said they started it by having good educational foundation among their members, and the Moro youth. Hamsa said they sent scholars to Turkey, Aceh Indonesia, Japan, Australia and short course in Thailand.

“These achievements of our organization can’t be realized without our unity. We have to think positive and formulate strategies to sustain these achievements,” he said.

Datuan Magon, UNYPAD Deputy Secretary-General for Administration said the experienced of UNYPAD from Manila to Mindanao was so difficult during the massive peace advocacy campaign.

“It was very challenging because we have members who were killed without any reason. We need justice for our members, and the best way to achieve justice is to support our leaders today. Let us give those martyred a quality governance as a nation of Muslim Bangsamopro,” he said.

“We are afraid that the future generation will blame us, as how we blame some Moros who caused the sufferings of today’s generation,” Magon said.

Muhyryn Sultan Casi, Vice Mayor of Pikit, North Cotabato graced the activity despite his hectic schedule. he was thankful that UNYPAD chose Pikit as venue of the assembly.

“The Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives of UNYPAD are things that inspire us to support this organization, because it continues to engage in Bangsamoro peace advocacy, working hand and hand in the community, and it is she said, a model of all youth organizations today and the future,” Vice Mayor Casi said.

Datu Ali Guinda Mamogkat, Chairman of MILF Committee on Political Affairs, and UNYPAD Adviser recalled their memorable experience from 1992 to 2000 in their residence at Layog, Pagalungan, Maguindanao that was used as venue for meetings.

“It was the time of organizing members to join the organizations as part of struggle to build better governance, until we achieve this Bangsamoro Government,” Mamogkat said.

Meanwhile, National Chairwoman of UNYPAD Baisanie Macabuat delivered a short message as part of the program. She emphasized that the women had been strong partners in nation building.

“Without women, nation can’t be built,” Baisanie stressed.

She encouraged women to empower themselves in all aspects to help the community to become Islamized.

Dr. Rahib Kudto, President of UNYPAD, stated that he started to organize the members into what is now a UNYPAD from 1992 until now. His dream is to build youth as next potential leaders to continue the struggle until the Bangsamoro government achieve its total objectives in the Bangsamoro homeland.

He enlightened the delegates during the peak of sacrifices until the Bangsamoro people achieved the establishment of Bangsamoro government.

He quoted the late MILF founding chairman Salamt Hashim saying: “We are not fighting because Manila government is dominated by Christians. We are not against the Christian Filipinos. We are against oppression, the long deprivation of the Bangsamoro people of their inalienable rights for freedom and self-determination”.

Nida Macatabang, Chairwoman of UNYPAD North Cotabato Cluster II, delivered the closing ,

Nida also mentioned that all UNYPAD members should put in their hearts that all their deeds are for the sake of Allah (SWT).(With reports from A.S. Balabagan)

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1886/thousands-of-unypad-members-attend-1st-north-cotabato-provincial-wide-assembly

CPP: To the Filipino people: Unite and defend the country! Build a national patriotic front against Chinese economic encroachment and military incursion

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 25, 2019): To the Filipino people: Unite and defend the country! Build a national patriotic front against Chinese economic encroachment and military incursion

Over the past several years, Philippine sovereignty has been greatly eroded as a result of the sustained and systematic economic encroachment and military intrusion by superpower China. Since 2016, China has heightened efforts to strengthen its position and foothold in the country. It is accelerating its plunder of Philippine marine and mineral resources and is rapidly increasing its military presence within the country’s marine territory. China has succeeded in doing so through the collaboration of the Philippine government under Rodrigo Duterte.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) calls on all patriotic and freedom-loving Filipinos to unite, stand firmly and act with a deep sense of patriotism to defend the country’s sovereignty and national freedom against China’s intrusion and intervention. This call is of great urgency in the face of China’s high-handedness and outright disregard of the country’s territory, exclusive economic zone, environment, food security and people’s livelihood.

Economic encroachment and plunder

China has been conducting large-scale encroachment on Philippine marine and other mineral resources within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf (ECS). China has expressed outright contempt for the 2016 final ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) which dismissed as baseless China’s claim of historic rights over the South China Sea and which recognized the Philippine’s EEZ and ECS under the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS).

In disregard of the Philippine EEZ, China has stepped-up fishing activities in the West Philippine Sea. This is part of China’s state-funded distant water fleet operations across the world to serve its domestic demand and its export of fish and other sea food. Large-scale fishing operations by China is resulting in overfishing and a decline in fish stocks, specifically of high-value fish such as tuna and groupers. Chinese fishing vessels are, moreover, notorious for harvesting corals, sea turtles, giant clams and other endangered marine wildlife.

In April, it was reported that around 200 Chinese sea vessels were swarming around Thitu island in the Spratlys. Since February, at least 85 vessels have been seen anchored around Pag-asa island. Chinese vessels have also been swarming Kota and Panata islands. The presence of large numbers of Chinese vessels, reported to be carrying naval militias, intimidate and prevent Filipino fishermen from venturing out in these waters, thus, denying them of their source of livelihood. Widespread anger of Filipinos over the presence and encroachment of Chinese fishing boats in Philippine seas was sparked recently by the Recto Bank incident last June 9 when a Chinese fishing boat rammed a Filipino fishing vessel and left its 22 crew floating at sea.

Chinese fishing activities as well as land reclamation have caused widespread destruction of the marine environment, including corals which serve as feeding and breeding grounds for fish resources. In its 2016 ruling, the PCA found China guilty of destroying around 124 square kilometers of corals in the West Philippine Sea.

China has openly coveted the vast oil resources in the West Philippine Sea which it estimates to be worth as much as $60 trillion in reserves. It has put forward a 60-40 deal to share oil resources in the area west of Recto Bank, within the country’s EEZ. Duterte has quickly expressed willingness to approve such a deal. Considering the fact that the country has all rights over the area, such a deal is anomalous and utterly lopsided. The country can freely choose when, how and with whom to carry out the drilling of oil in the area ensuring that it serves primarily the country’s interests.

Without permission from Philippine authorities, Chinese sea exploration vessels were recently spotted within Philippine territorial seas, in all likelihood, searching for more resources to plunder.

Large areas and islands are being overwhelmed and practically taken over by China. This includes the 32-hectare island off Cavite which is planned to be developed as “POGO island” (Philippine Online Gaming Operations, where Chinese capitalists run gambling operations which are illegal in China and employ tens of thousands of Chinese workers who suffer from oppressive and exploitative conditions). It is also planning to “develop” the Grande and Chiquita islands off Zambales with $298 million worth of projects including 80 high rise buildings. A large Chinese company, meanwhile, is planning to transform the 70-square kilometer Fuga island in the Babuyan group of islands into a $2-billion “smart city.”

Earlier this year, the Duterte government granted a telecommunication franchise to a consortium including the state-owned China Telco, which would give the Chinese government access to Philippine communication facilities, a nationally strategic infrastructure. Another strategic infrastructure, the country’s electricity grid, is already partially controlled by the Chinese government through the State Grid Corporation of China.

Military incursion

Since 2015, China has built several military facilities in the West Philippine Sea in violation of Philippine sovereignty and the UNCLOS. The act of building and militarizing these artificial islands constitutes imperialist aggression. The military facilities occupy the Panganiban reef which was recognized by the 2016 arbitral ruling as part of the Philippine EEZ, as well as the Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) and Zamora reefs, which were adjudged part of international waters which no country can lay claim to.

China’s military facilities in the Spratly islands are described as “the most advanced of China’s bases” in the South China Sea. They include runways capable of landing Chinese bomber planes, hangars for at least 24 combat aircraft and four large planes, radars, high-frequency antennas and other communication facilities, missile shelters and launchers, lighthouses, multistory buildings and so on.

China has repeatedly displayed aggressive behavior over the military facilities issuing radio warnings and threatening consequences against Philippine and other vessels which have flown or sailed near these facilities.

China continues to maintain two Chinese Coast Guard ships around the Scarborrough Shoal (Panatag or Bajo de Masinloc) preventing Filipino fishermen from entering the lagoon to fish. There have been several incidents of Filipino vessels being driven away or boarded and their catch taken away by armed Chinese police. Panatag is within the Philippine EEZ albeit considered by the PCA as a traditional fishing ground of Filipino and Chinese fishermen. Duterte claims he had an agreement with Xi Jinping that Filipino fishermen will be “allowed” to fish in the area but has failed to demand the withdrawal of the Chinese coast guard nor has he acted decisively against Chinese violations.

Over the past few months, at least eight Chinese war ships, including aircraft carrier Liaoning , have sailed without due notification through the Sibutu Strait, an international sea lane that is within Philippine territorial waters. This clearly undermines Philippine territorial rights. In violation of international sea protocol and display of disrespect for Philippine territorial waters, Chinese war vessels have turned off its lights and automatic identification system in order to avoid detection which typically indicate non-friendly intent.

Collaborator

China has been able to strengthen its economic and military power in the Philippines with the collaboration of the Duterte government since 2016. Duterte has openly declared his fealty to China in exchange for $19 billion secret loans to fund large-scale infrastructure projects which absorb surplus steel and cement from China. Duterte has repeatedly proved himself a traitor to the Filipino people.

In 2016, kowtowing to Chinese powers, Duterte set aside the final ruling of the PCA which dismissed China’s “nine-dash line” claim. Duterte raised no protest against China’s building of military facilities in the Spratly islands. He has practically surrendered to China’s control and “possession” of the Panatag Shoal. He has raised the spectre of a losing war to justify his refusal to undertake political, diplomatic and judicial courses of action to more firmly and vigorously assert Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights.

Officially, the Duterte government has merely issued tame and sham diplomatic protests which have been largely ignored by China. Invariably, Duterte has toed the Chinese line to exonerate China of incidents of intrusions which violate Philippine sovereignty. He has failed to castigate China for having its war vessels and survey ships non-innocently pass through Philippine waters.

In just two years, Duterte has visited China four times. Each time, Duterte and his large retinue of big business friends, politicians and family members have received imperial treatment. Business deals and state agreements have been forged. Most of these deals have been kept secret. Duterte is set on going to China a fifth time this month where he is set to commit ever greater acts of treachery. He has announced plans to raise Philippine rights as recognized by the PCA. The mendicant Duterte, however, is merely putting up a purposeless drama to overstate his importance as he has already prejudicially declared he could do nothing if China insists on refusing to recognize the ruling.

Among the loan agreements which have been exposed indicate onerous terms of payments with interest rates set at 2-3 percent (as opposed to 0.25% to 0.75% interest rates of Japanese official development assistance). The absence of transparency in the forging of these deals strongly suggests high-level and large-scale bribery similar to that received by Arroyo in the 2007 NBN-ZTE deal by big Chinese monopoly bureaucrat capitalists.

Duterte and his cohorts have strong ties with the Chinese Triad drug syndicates. While Duterte mounted the so-called “drug war,” the supply of shabu from China in the country continues to rise. Smuggling is handled by Duterte’s military appointees in the Bureau of Customs whom he has praised for “knowing to follow my orders.”

Duterte’s mendicant and doormat policy has emboldened China to carry out more aggressive encroachments and intrusions in the country.

Duterte’s security and defense officials have been increasingly vocal in raising concerns over China’s military build-up and how its military posture, though described by China as defensive, can easily be turned offensive. They have denounced China’s bullying. They are also wary of China’s encroachments in the surrounding islands which can be used as an offensive springboard. The rising number of Chinese nationals (last year numbering 1.2 million tourists and 200,000 with work permits) has also been described as a national security concern.

The country’s national security is also set to be undermined by the entry of state-owned China Telco and Huawei Technologies Co. which plan to dominate and control the country’s communication infrastructure through its dummies (Dennis Uy and others).

Security concerns raised by the AFP are mostly reflective of increasing US wariness over rising Chinese influence in the Philippines and South China Sea. Although subservient to the US, dependent on the US military and serving its hegemonic aims, Philippine defense officials invoke questions of sovereignty in the hope of winning the support of the people.

To the Filipino people

It is the patriotic duty of every Filipino to fight for the country’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity as long as the Philippines remains a semicolonial country, whether under US overall imperialist dominance, or whether China displaces the US by any degree or whether these two imperialist powers collaborate to keep the Philippines a nominally independent country.

In the face of heightening Chinese economic and military expansionism, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) calls on the Filipino people to unite and valiantly resist China’s intrusion and encroachment on the Philippines. This forms part of their overall struggle to achieve genuine national freedom and social justice.

This is of great urgency as the country’s sovereignty is further being eroded by China as it challenges US imperialism for dominance in the Philippines and the rest of Asia-Pacific.

This struggle must aim to regain full sovereign control of the West Philippine Sea and all the resources within the country’s EEZ. Demand China to withdraw its Coast Guard vessels from the Panatag Shoal so that Filipino fishermen can freely fish in the area, together with Chinese fishermen.

The Party urges the people to call for the dismantling of all Chinese military facilities in the Spratly islands and demand the withdrawal of all Chinese forces from these artificial islands.

The Filipinos can demand China to pay a $105 billion remuneration for the 124 square kilometers of damaged corals caused by their land reclamation (in the same way that the US was made to pay $1.97 million for damage caused by the USS Guardian to 1,000 square meters in Tubbataha Reef in 2013) and at least $70 billion in back rent for the years of illegal occupation of sea features in the Philippine maritime territory and EEZ (in the same way that the Philippines demanded the US in 1988 to pay rent for the US military bases). They can demand China to be subjected to the pertinent UN bodies and have its assets in the US seized in favor of Philippine demands. China’s liabilities of more than $175 billion owed the Philippines are indeed far greater than the onerous loans it has extended to the Duterte regime.

Furthermore, the Filipino people can demand China accountability for the Recto Bank incident and push for the removal of all Chinese fishing vessels from the country’s EEZ. Seek a stop to China overfishing and an end to the large-scale catching of endangered marine wildlife. Demand a stop to the display of force by Chinese war vessels in Philippine seas. Demand a stop to China’s exploration activities within the country’s territorial waters and EEZ.

Demand that the terms of all loan agreements with China be made public and call for the cancellation of those deals that are detrimental to the interests and welfare of the Filipino people. Call for a revocation of the franchise granting state-owned China Telco license to operate a telecommunication company in the Philippines. Demand a stop to the environmentally destructive infrastructure projects such as the Chico River and Kaliwa dam projects, as well as to large-scale mining of black sand and other minerals.

Unite to raise the country’s flag as a symbol of the national struggle and isolate Duterte’s government of national treachery. Duterte’s betrayal of the national interests will cause his further isolation. Call on all patriotic forces in the government, including those in the military and police, to act in consonance with the people’s cause.

The struggle to wrest back control of our seas–the country’s territorial waters and EEZ, is currently one of the crucial battlegrounds. Thus, the Party exhorts all Filipino fisherfolk and fishing boat operators to unite and act in large numbers and be at the forefront of this struggle. The collective actions of the Filipino fisherfolk must be supported by every Filipino patriot.

The Filipino people must draw international support for their cause. They must call on the Chinese people to support the Filipino people’s resistance to defend sovereignty against affronts by their repressive and expansionist regime. They must encourage all peoples and their governments to give all forms of support–diplomatic, political, legal, moral and material, to the struggle of the Filipino people to get back their seas from China. However, they must declare firmly and clearly, that this is primarily a fight of the Filipino people. They must forewarn any country against military interference. China’s military power, no matter how big, will prove ineffectual in the face of a united Filipino people.

The Party challenges the Filipino young intellectuals to serve as the beacon of Filipino patriotism and be the force of nationalist rebellion against foreign intervention. Study and popularize the writings of the stalwarts of Filipino nationalism and help unite the Filipino people. Go among the millions of people to inspire and militate them to act and rise up as one.

The Party must be at the vanguard and core of the Filipino people’s struggle wrest back their seas and resist Chinese violations of the country’s sovereignty. The Party must take lead in uniting the entire people into a broad national patriotic front.

The Party must expose the Chinese government as an imperialist government. The thin veil of “socialism with Chinese characteristics” can no longer conceal the brazen acts undisguised imperialism including outright grabbing of features in the EEZ of the West Philippine Sea and building of military facilities in the artificial islands.

The Party must expose and denounce China’s drive to control spheres of investments and influence, as well as trade routes, sources of raw materials and cheap labor which result in national oppression and violations of sovereign countries. It must expose China’s aggressive export of surplus capital in the form of loans and foreign investments which overwhelm and dominate underdeveloped countries such as the Philippines. The Party must expose the global crisis of capitalism and the rising economic and military conflict among imperialist powers which is rapidly accelerating onto open conflict and wars.

The Party must link the struggle against China’s incursions and encroachment to the Filipino people’s struggle for national and social liberation. The prevailing semicolonial and semifeudal system in the Philippines has made it vulnerable to Chinese expansionist policy. Under several decades of US neocolonial rule, the Philippines remains backward economically and dependent militarily. US domination in the Philippines has made the country vulnerable and susceptible to Chinese drive for imperialist domination.

The Party must rouse the Filipino people to fight as a single-minded patriotic force against China’s drive to dominate the Philippines. A united Filipino people will serve as a strong force to defend and uphold national sovereignty. The Chinese giant will prove no match to the resilience and correctness of the Filipino people’s patriotic cause.

https://cpp.ph/2019/08/25/to-the-filipino-people-unite-and-defend-the-country-build-a-national-patriotic-front-against-chinese-economic-encroachment-and-military-incursion/

CPP: As country mark Heroes Day, CPP urges Filipinos to build patriotic front against Chinese imperialism

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 25, 2019): As country mark Heroes Day, CPP urges Filipinos to build patriotic front against Chinese imperialism



Marking Heroes Day, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today released a seven-page statement (https://bit.ly/2HqpRxF) which detailed the “sustained and systematic economic encroachment and military intrusion by superpower China” and called on all “freedom-loving Filipinos” to build a “national patriotic front” to “regain full sovereign control” of the West Philippine Sea and the country’s exclusive economic zone.

“It is the patriotic duty of every Filipino to fight for the country’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity as long as the Philippines remains a semicolonial country,” declared the Party. It said the struggle against China’s “intrusion and encroachment” forms “part of their overall struggle to achieve genuine national freedom and social justice.”

The CPP issued the statement as the Philippines marks Heroes Day which commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin of 1896, the signal fire of the revolutionary armed struggle led by the Katipunan for liberation from Spanish colonialism.

The Party urged all “freedom-loving Filipinos to stand firmly and act with a deep sense of patriotism to defend the country’s sovereignty and national freedom against China’s intrusion and intervention.” It added: “Unite to raise the country’s flag as a symbol of national struggle.”

“This is of great urgency as the country’s sovereignty is further being eroded by China as it challenges US imperialism for dominance in the Philippines and the rest of the Asia-Pacific.” The CPP said China is engaged in “economic and military expansionism.”

The Party urged Filipinos “to call for the dismantling of all Chinese military facilities in the Spratly islands and demand the withdrawal of all Chinese forces from these artificial islands.” It also supported the call for the withdrawal of Chinese Coast Guard vessels in the Panatag Shoal which impede Filipino fishermen entry into the rich fishing grounds. The CPP said “the act of building and militarizing these artificial islands constitutes imperialist aggression.”

The CPP also called on the Filipino people to demand China accountability for the Recto Bank incident, push for the removal of all Chinese fishing vessels from the country’s EEZ and seek a stop to China overfishing and an end to the large-scale catching of endangered marine wildlife.

The Party also urged the Filipinos to demand a stop to the display of force by Chinese war vessels in Philippine seas as well as China’s exploration activities within the country’s territorial waters and EEZ.

The Party said the struggle to “wrest back control of our seas” is “currently one of the crucial battlegrounds” as it urges people to support the collective action of Filipino fisherfolk and fishing boat operators. It called on fishermen “to unite and act in large numbers and be at the forefront of this struggle.”

The CPP said the people can demand China to pay more than $175 billion in liabilities as remuneration for damage to at least 124 square kilometers of corals caused by Chinese land reclamation and as back rent for years of illegal occupation of sea features in Philippine maritime territory.

The Party also urged the Filipinos to demand that the terms of all loan agreements with China be made public and call for the cancellation of those deals that are detrimental to the interests and welfare of the Filipino people as well as environmentally-destructive projects such as the Chico River and Kaliwa dam projects.

It also urged the people to demand a revocation of the franchise granting state-owned China Telco and Huawei Technologies Inc. license to operate a telecommunication company in the Philippines through its dummy.

The CPP also called on all patriotic forces in the government, including those in the military and police, to act in consonance with the people’s cause.

https://cpp.ph/2019/08/25/as-country-mark-heroes-day-cpp-urges-filipinos-to-build-patriotic-front-against-chinese-imperialism/

Kalinaw News: Soldiers, cops, LGU, stakeholders join for one mission

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 26, 2019): Soldiers, cops, LGU, stakeholders join for one mission








CAMP MONTECLARO, Miagao, Iloilo— More than 500 residents of Libacao, Aklan benefited from the medical and dental civic action program (MEDCAP) of the Philippine Army.

The event,held in barangay Can-awan, Libacao town last August 24, led by the 12th Infantry Battalion under the leadership of Ltc Sisenando A Magbalot Jr. was joined by the police, volunteers and other stakeholders.

Combining resources and skills to provide quality health care needs and medical benefits for the local populace of Can-awan, Dr. Mary Anne Sarrosa, an active volunteer of Hunter Battalion, offered free medical check-up while Dr. Luz Abordaje, dentist, also offered free tooth extraction.

Volunteers also gave free toys and clothes to kids who participated in the event.

A free haircut was also offered by our soldiers.

Despite the rain and crossing the river by boat or “balsa” and being wet all throughout their journey, the volunteers, LGUs, police and soldiers continued to serve the civilians who were in need of medical attention.

Also included during the mission were free circumcission and feeding for kids.

In his message, Ltc Joel Benedict Batara thanked the stakeholders in their efforts to work hand in hand with the soldiers in serving the far flung barangays.

“A whole nation approach, if we work together, we can help as many barangays as possible. We can reach the mountains together serving the underprivileged,” Batara said.

On the other hand, the residents have expressed their appreciation to the Philippine Army for bringing these various services in their area.

“We are thankful that despite the fact that we are in far barangay and despite the bad weather, you all came over to serve us,” they said.




61st Infantry Battalion 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
1LT HAZEL JOY M DUROTAN (FS) PA
CMO OFFICER, 61IB
Miagao,Iloilo
0906-254-9608

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

Kalinaw News: 75th IB Conducts thanksgiving mass and blessing of the new facilities in Surigao Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 26, 2019): 75th IB Conducts thanksgiving mass and blessing of the new facilities in Surigao Sur





BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur-Camp Jaime N Ferrer Sr, Brgy Maharlika, Bislig City (Stn) – The 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion offered a Thanksgiving Mass and Blessing of the new facilities at Headquarters, 75IB, Brgy Maharlika, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur on August 22, 2019, Thursday.

The mass was officiated by Rev. Father Ian Segura, Parish Priest and followed by the blessing of the newly constructed Motor pool Bay, Enlisted Personnel Mess Hall, and to the newly repaired M365 and KM250 vehicles spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel Jaime R Datuin, Commanding Officer of 75IB and participated by the officers and enlisted personnel of this unit together with their dependents.

The newly constructed Motor pool bay and the restoration of the EP Mess Hall was a project of this unit initiated by the Commanding Officer of 75IB, Lt. Col. Datuin. With his mission to have an extra
parking garage that would set an additional facility useful for the unit and will provide more space and preserve the good condition of the mobility assets of this unit. Likewise, the restoration of the EP Mess Hall is to provide a conducive ambiance during mealtime of the personnel and would be useful also to any activities the unit will be conducting in the later time. Moreover,of the personnel in this unit as they have seen the creative hands and the dedication of the personnel in accomplishing the said project.

Thus, LTC Jaime Datuin said, “I extend my deepest gratitude to the personnel of 75IB for their dedication and hard work. No need to strictly impose kung ano ang ‘yong gusto mangyari ng opisyal para sa ikakaganda ng unit mo. Their devotion to duty brought a remark to this Battalion that leads to the accomplishment of the projects needed by this unit. A very job well done.” Datuin ended.



79th Infantry Battalion 3rd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT ROWELL O DAIROCAS (INF) PA
Civil-Military Operations Officer
Contact No: 0917-527-9863
Email Add: masaligan_79@gmail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

Kalinaw News: Troops seized enemy supply in Ilocos Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 25, 2019): Troops seized enemy supply in Ilocos Sur




Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija – Troops of the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion seized an enemy supply depot that was discovered in a far-flung area in Ilocos Sur on August 21, 2019.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Rodrigo A. Mariñas Jr., they received an information from a concerned citizen regarding the presence of Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) that led to the discovery of the CNT lair.

Considering the over-all state of the discovered supplies, the troops surmised that it had been buried for weeks already.

The following supplies were recovered from the site: 30 kilos of rice stored in a 30 liter gallon, 15 kgs of rice stored in a 15 liter gallon, one sack of assorted goods including 3 kgs of flour, 3 kgs of brown sugar, 4 liters of fermented fish sauce and 5 liters of cooking oil.

Commenting on the said recovery, Major General Lenard T. Agustin, Commander of the 7th Infanty (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army, said, “With the whole Province of Ilocos Sur declaring that CNTs as persona non grata in their communities, the enemy is now highly mobile as they thought it safer to abandon their lair for they know that knowledge of their presence will not be tolerated anymore. This indicates that the whole-of-nation approach to end insurgency is working. And again, I would like to reiterate my call to other provinces, muncipalities and barangays, to adopt the approach so that we can finally put an end to the armed conflict initiated by local communists.”

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Mariñas Jr., Commanding Officer of 81IB, said that the troops did well in their appointed tasks and it is only a matter of time for the troops to catch up with the local terrorists. He further expressed his gratitude to people of Ilocos Sur for their renewed cooperation with the security forces by providing vital information. He stressed, “Your Army will all the more be committed to protect the people.”




Division Public Affairs Office 7th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Catherine H Jubas
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 7ID
Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija
09175547417

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

Kalinaw News: Joint Army,PNP, NPA Terrorist Clash in Ozamiz

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 25, 2019): Joint Army,PNP, NPA Terrorist Clash in Ozamiz



CAMP SANG-AN, Labangan Zamboanga del Sur – One Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed, seven were apprehended (one is wounded) after a two separate encounter with the joint law enforcement operation of Army’s 10th Infantry Battalion and 2nd PNP Mobile Force Company in Brgy Bagacay and Cogon, Ozamiz City, 5:50 a.m. Sunday, August 25, 2019.

The first firefight ensued when the troops responded to the report of the residents in Brgy Bagacay of the presence of CNTs in their community and the second firefight was during the pursuit operation in Brgy Cogon.

“The swift action of the government forces resulted into the recovery of one M16 rifle, four caliber .45 pistol, seven hand grenades, three motorcycles improvised explosive components and foodstuffs”, said Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, 10th Infantry Battalion commander.

Two troops were also wounded after the clash and were immediately brought to the nearest hospital for proper medication.

CNT member wounded was also brought to the hospital for proper medical treatment and six others undergo medical check-up prior turn-over to the PNP for filling of appropriate charges and proper disposition.

“The encounter was the result of the collaboration among the stakeholders especially the peace-loving civilians in the area who continuously report the presence of these CNTs,” said Col. Leonel Nicolas, commander of 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Misamis Occidental.

“We also urge other CNTs especially those who were wounded to come out and be given proper medical treatment. We are assuring you of your safety and security. We will also assist you to avail the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for you to live peacefully,” Nicolas added.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, commended the efforts of the troops that led to the successful encounter against CNTs.

“The Tabak Troopers in collaboration with the PNP will intensify joint law enforcement operation to protect the people and communities against CNTs,” Ancan added.

“Our condolences also go to the family of the dead CNT member. It is tragic that he took arms against the government which led to his senseless demise”, added Ancan.

Additional troops were sent to the area to pursue the fleeing CNTs, while the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) went to conduct investigation in the encounter area.

The troops of 10IB are also in close coordination with the barangay officials to ensure the safety and security of the residents in the area.




Division Public Affairs Office 1st Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT CLINT ANTIPALA
Chief, Division Public Affairs Office, 1st Infantry Division
E-mail: tabakdpao@gmail.com
Mobile Number: 09177938341

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

Solon insists: ‘Jabidah’ real

From the Manila Standard (Aug 25, 2019): Solon insists: ‘Jabidah’ real

A legislator from the Southern Philippines on Friday insisted the alleged Jabidah Massacre that triggered the creation of the Moro National Liberation Front really happened.

Deputy Speaker Mujiv Hataman issued the statement following the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Civil Relations Service commander, Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade, the so-called massacre was “fake news” that was exploited by anti-government groups as propaganda to “agitate the young to rise against the government.”

“We Moros have been commemorating this unfortunate incident in our history year after year. The Jabidah Massacre cost dozens upon dozens of young Moro lives. It is an extremely dark occurrence in the Moro history, and is considered by the Bangsamoro people as one of the tipping points of our struggle for justice and self-determination,”
Hataman said.

“We should be careful with what we say, as these statements may only fuel radicalism. It comes at a time when we are at a crucial transition for a meaningful and genuine autonomy in the Bangsamoro region following the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law that gave birth to the new Bangsamoro Government,”
Hataman, who represents Basilan in the House of Representatives, said.


“This revisionism of history does not help our transitional efforts for justice—one that aims to continue healing the country, especially for the families of casualties in the conflict in Mindanao. The last thing we need right now is the denial and erasure of our history as a people in this country,” he added.

The alleged Jabidah Massacre on March 18, 1968 was exploited by the political rivals of then President Ferdinand Marcos to ensure that he would lose his reelection bid in the 1969 elections. He won that election against then Senator Sergio Osmeña Jr.

Then Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. exposed the alleged massacre on the Senate floor, provoking a break in the country’s diplomatic relations with Malaysia and the establishment of the MNLF.

http://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/303140/solon-insists-jabidah-real.html

Military official says Malaysian vessel mistaken for Chinese warship in waters off Tawi-Tawi

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 25, 2019): Military official says Malaysian vessel mistaken for Chinese warship in waters off Tawi-Tawi

A high-ranking official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) explained on Sunday that a Malaysian Navy ship recently seen passing through the waters of Tawi-Tawi was mistaken by local government officials to be a Chinese warship.



Major General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and Joint Task Force (JTF) Central (photo courtesy of wikipedia / MANILA BULLETIN)

Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the AFP-Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), said Taganak, Tawi-Tawi Mayor Hadji Moh Faisal Jamalul reached out to him to report the presence of a foreign vessel spotted by fishermen near the Turtle Group of Islands in the southern part of the province last August 2.

“He misidentified the Malaysian Navy as the Chinese Navy passing through our boundary with Malaysia. I just want to correct that information, that is not the Chinese Navy but the Malaysian Navy with all due respect to our good mayor in Taganak,” Sobejana said in a radio interview over DZBB.


Sobejana disclosed that a bilateral exercise with the Malaysian Navy was conducted earlier this month to ensure that there will be no more incursions of foreign vessels in the area.

The exercise was prompted by the repeated “uninformed” passage of Chinese warships along Sibutu Strait in Tawi-Tawi since February of this year.

“Since August 2, there were no more incursions by foreign vessels,” Sobejana said.

“I think the leadership of China issued a guidance to its Navy not to immerse in our territory without coordination or advance information with us,” he continued.

Meanwhile, the WestMinCom chief admitted that foreign vessels need not seek prior coordination when passing through internationally acknowledged “sealanes of communication,” such as the Sibutu Strait.

“Sibutu Strait is a sealane of communication. It means that big vessels are passing through it from one country to another and we acknowledge that. We do not object that. In fact, it is our responsibility to ensure their safe passage,” Sobejana said, noting some provisions in the international treaty United National Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“Roughly US$51 billion a year of shipments are passing through there a year so we must ensure their safe and secured travel, that is called ‘innocent passage,'” Sobejana explained.

The principle of innocent passage was indicated in Section 3, Article 45 of the UNCLOS.

But the case for the foreign warships are different, Sobejana noted, as these vessels need to secure first a “diplomatic clearance” before making a pass in a State’s territorial waters.

“It is more of a gesture of respect so that we are aware of their presence and we will not be alarmed. We are having reservations with the Chinese ships because number one, they are turning off their AIS [automatic identification system] and they refuse to answer when we call them,” he stressed.

In several instances that Chinese warships were seen passing through Sibutu Strait from February to August 2019, the military said they had been turning off their AIS and only backed down when confronted by Philippine military ships.

Sobejana said it is “hard to speculate” but added they cannot dismiss the possibility that the Chinese warships committing an uninformed passage along Sibutu Strait were spying on the Philippine military.

“That is why our military at the national level continues to engage the Chinese Embassy to this effect. I’m sure the Chinese leadership is already aware of this,” he stated.

Solon seeks to rename AFP headquarters Camp General Antonio Luna

From GMA News Online (Aug 25, 2019): Solon seeks to rename AFP headquarters Camp General Antonio Luna

A lawmaker filed a bill seeking to rename Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Camp General Antonio Luna.

In House Bill 4047, Deputy Speaker and Surigao del Sur Representative Johnny Pimentel explained that historians described General Antonio Luna as "the most brilliant and capable of the Filipino generals during the Philippine-American War.”

Luna served as Chief of Staff of the Philippine Revolutionary Army for 134 days during the war until he was brutally assassinated on June 5, 1899 at the age of 32.

"Luna deserves greater recognition for his patriotism and military prowess. Our bill seeks to honor and accord ‘The Fiery General’ the nobler distinction and prominence that he rightfully deserves,” Pimentel added.

“We are counting on our bill, once enacted, to rouse all Filipinos, especially our soldiers across the three military branches – the Army, the Air Force, and the Navy – to emulate and live up to Luna’s positive qualities, particularly his strong love of country and exceptional military skills.”

Pimentel, however, clarified that his bill did not seek to "reduce" Aguinaldo, the first Philippine President who served as Chief of Staff of the Philippine Revolutionary Army after Luna's assassination.

“Aguinaldo has been fittingly honored over the years, especially with the 41.4-kilometer Emilio Aguinaldo Highway,” Pimentel said, referring to the network of public roads traversing cities and municipalities in Cavite.

Thus, in his bill, Pimentel proposed that Camp Antonio Luna in Limay, Bataan, which serves as the headquarters of the Office of the Director of the Government Arsenal under the Department of Defense, to be renamed Camp Emilio Aguinaldo.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/705690/solon-seeks-to-rename-afp-headquarters-camp-heneral-antonio-luna/story/

Duterte wants bigger budget for AFP, PNP in 2020

From the Philippine Star (Aug 25, 2019): Duterte wants bigger budget for AFP, PNP in 2020

President Duterte wants bigger budget for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) next year.

In the proposed 2020 national budget submitted by the Department of Budget and Management last Tuesday, appropriations for the Department of National Defense (DND) and the PNP increased to P189 billion and P184.9 billion, respectively.

The two agencies have enjoyed significant budget increases under the Duterte administration.

The DND’s budget, which will cover the line agencies of AFP, showed a P5 billion increase from P183.9 billion for this year.

It has the fifth biggest allocation among government agencies.

The Philippine Army will get P91.5 billion or P2.5 billion higher than its 2019 budget of P89.5 billion.

The Philippine Air Force, on the other hand, has been allocated P25.9 billion, P1.3 billion higher than its P24.6-billion budget this year.

The Philippine Navy, for its part, will get P29 billion for 2020 or P1.2-billion higher than its budget for this year of P27.8 billion.

Duterte earlier announced that the 2020 DND budget would include portions of the second phase of the Philippine military modernization plan covering the period 2018 to 2022 and the amount of P125 billion for the acquisition of more equipment for external defense missions, including helicopters, fighter aircraft, multi-role fighters and missile and radar systems.

The first phase of the AFP modernization plan covered the years 2013 to 2017, for which at least P85 billion was allocated for the acquisition of assets including combat utility and attack helicopters, frigates, armored vehicles, rifles, and cargo and transport aircraft.

The President had also committed to pouring in P500 million for medical assistance to troops in the battlefield.

The PNP, on the other hand, will get a 30 percent increase in its budget for 2020 or P11.4 billion higher than its P173.5-billion budget for this year.

The increase, according to Duterte, will boost PNP’s campaign against criminality and terrorism.

While the PNP’s capital outlays for property and equipment acquisitions will go down to P2.7 billion next year from P5.97 billion this year, its operating expenses will significantly increase from P167.5 billion this year to P182 billion next year.

The PNP’s proposed 2020 budget includes P546 million that would fund the implementation of an anti-illegal drug strategy, with the Dangerous Drugs Board as the lead agency.

It will also cover P14.4 billion for 26,686 positions and P3 billion for additional 10,000 patrolman positions.

To complement the hiring of additional police officers, Duterte said he is proposing the allocation of P100 million for the construction of more police stations.

The House of Representatives is set to deliberate on the proposed budgets of DND and PNP next month.

Police state

Meanwhile, militant party-list lawmakers questioned the intelligence and confidential funds in the proposed budget that they said amounted to P8.28 billion.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate assailed the increase in Duterte administration’s intelligence funds from this year’s P4.067 billion to P4.786 billion next year as well as the increase in confidential expenses from P2.965 in 2019 to P3.497 billion in 2020.

Portions of the intelligence funds will be allocated to the AFP (P1.7 billion) and PNP (P806.02 million).

Zarate called on his colleagues to scrutinize these proposed funds, which their group believe would be used to target progressive movements.

“Take this proposed intelligence budget with the proposed amendments to the Human Security Act (HSA) along with the PNP’s and AFP’s push for the revival of the Anti-Subversion law and the militarization of campuses, then these would effectively make the whole Philippines as a police state,” he said.

Confidential and intelligence funds have been subject of criticisms by advocates of government transparency and accountability since these are not covered by public disclosure and disbursement documentation rules due to their sensitive nature.

The Commission on Audit (COA) said these funds should be used for intelligence gathering or the “purchase” of information” necessary for public safety and national security.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/08/25/1946167/duterte-wants-bigger-budget-afp-pnp-2020

UNHCR Philippines CRI Quarterly Report April - June 2019, Issue No. 02

Posted to the Relief Web (Aug 25, 2019): UNHCR Philippines CRI Quarterly Report April - June 2019, Issue No. 02

REPORT from UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Protection Cluster

Published on 11 Jul 2019 —View Original


Download PDF (3.83 MB)

In 2018, UNHCR provided core relief items to 61,670 individuals (12,334 IDPs families). Core relief items comprising of plastic sheets, solar lanterns, blankets and others provide IDPs with much-needed basic household items during displacement, whether in evacuation centers or with host families. Distribution of CRIs is an effective tool to provide protection by presence, and ensure continued monitoring and reporting of protection concerns especially in remote and difficult-to-access locations. UNHCR will continue to provide CRIs for new displacement as well as for those in protracted displacement who continue to face protection risks. UNHCR will leverage with other partners some operational resources to reach IDPs who are considered highly at risk and those with specific needs, including women, children or families headed by elderly persons. All distributions will be carried out in coordination and partnership with the local government units, and with partner humanitarian NGOs where feasible.

KEY POINTS
  • In April 2019, UNHCR with the support of its project partner, Magungaya Mindanao, Inc. (MMI), distributed a total number of three hundred twenty Core Relief Items (CRI) to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Binidayan, Lanao del Sur. Displacement was caused due to operations by the government’s security forces against the ISIS-inspired Groups.
  • In May 2019, UNHCR in partnership with MMI and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDDRMO) of Lake Sebu distributed four hundred eighty two CRIs to IDPs in Brgy. Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. These families have been displaced due to the fighting between two parties engaged in a longstanding political dispute that has led to a rido or clan feud. In the same month, the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the Community and Family Services International (CFSI) also jointly facilitated the distribution of two thousand six hundred thirty three CRIs to the IDPs in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao to support the families displaced by the Marawi Siege and recurring armed conflict in Brgy. Pamalian, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao.
  • In June 2019, MMI distributed three thousand twenty two CRIs to IDPs in North Cotabato and Maguindanao. The displacement was due to the clan dispute between two political rivals in the recently concluded midterm elections in May. In partnership with Kapamagogopa Incorporated (KI), UNHCR also distributed two hundred eighty CRIs to the IDPS at the temporary shelters in Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte evacuation site. These families fled their homes due to tropical storm Vinta and Marawi siege in 2017.

Calatrava town declares Reds persona non grata

Posted to Politiko Visayas (Aug 25, 2019): Calatrava town declares Reds persona non grata



The municipality of Calatrava in Negros Occidental has declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) persona non grata.

Municipal officials led by Mayor Marilyn Era also condemned the unlawful activities of the communist-terrorist group.

“We, the local officials, are doing our best to find solutions to the people’s problems, and provide livelihood programs and development projects for the good of the barangays,” Era said.

The local chief executive asked for cooperation from her constituents and show concern for their hometown to achieve peace and progress.

Calatrava is the fourth local government unit (LGU) in the first district of Negros Occidental to make the declaration.

Others include San Carlos City, Escalante City, and Toboso.


Gunman killed as security forces, NPA clash in Ozamiz City

From GMA News (Aug 25, 2019): Gunman killed as security forces, NPA clash in Ozamiz City

An alleged New People's Army gunman was killed while seven suspects were arrested after security forces clashed with the communist rebel group in Ozamiz City on Sunday.

The Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Battalion and the 2nd Philippine National Police (PNP) Mobile Force Company were
operating near Barangay Bagacay when they clashed with the NPA gunmen.


The rebels were compelled to withdraw and were pursued towards Barangay Cogon, the Army revealed.

Lieutenant Colonel Ray Tiongson, 10th Infantry Battalion commander, said they recovered of an M16 rifle, four .45 caliber pistol, seven hand grenades, three motorcycles, and improvised explosive-device components from the scene of the fight.

One of the arrested rebels was wounded in the fight and was brought to hospital. The six other suspects were in police custody awaiting the proper charges to be filed against them.

Meanwhile, two soldiers were also wounded in the firefight and were also immediately brought to hospital.

Additional troops were sent to the area to pursue the fleeing NPA band, while PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) were at the site of the encounter to conduct their investigation.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/705678/gunman-killed-as-security-forces-npa-clash-in-ozamiz-city/story/

1 NPA killed, 7 nabbed, 2 escape in Ozamiz City clash

From the Manila Times (Aug 25, 2019): 1 NPA killed, 7 nabbed, 2 escape in Ozamiz City clash

A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) died while seven were arrested in separate clashes in Ozamiz City early on Sunday, a military official said.

Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, commander of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Battalion, said the
first firefight happened at 5:50 a.m. in Barangay Bagacay where military troops from the same battalion and police from the 2nd mobile force company encountered 10 communist rebels, resulting in the arrest of three.


Tiongson told The Manila Times that the seven fleeing NPA rebels encountered government troops in Barangay Cogon, which resulted in the death of one of their comrades and the apprehension of four others. Two rebels managed to escape.

Tiongson said troops recovered an M16 rifle, four caliber .45 pistols, seven hand grenades, three motorcycles, improvised explosive components and food.

Two soldiers were wounded in the second encounter.

https://www.manilatimes.net/1-npa-killed-7-nabbed-2-escape-in-ozamiz-city-clash/605816/

PH to buy 2 navy corvettes from South Korea, may receive 2 more

From Rappler (Aug 24, 2019): PH to buy 2 navy corvettes from South Korea, may receive 2 more

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana says the South Korean government plans to donate two of its navy’s old corvettes as the Philippines buys two brand new ones from Hyundai Heavy Industries



NAVY CORVETTE. The BRP Conrado Yap, a Pohang-class corvette donated by South Korea, is welcomed in Manila on August 20, 2019. Photo by KD Madrilejos/Rappler

The Philippines will order two brand new corvette warships from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), while the South Korean government plans to donate two of its navy’s existing ones, said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

Welcoming the Pohang-class corvette BRP Conrado Yap donated by South Korea in a ceremony at the Manila South Harbor on Tuesday, August 20, Lorenzana said “the South Korean government is thinking of donating two more of these Pohang-class [corvettes].”

“We are again ordering two corvettes, also to be made by Hyundai,” the defense chief added.

A corvette is the smallest class of warships, and although the BRP Conrado Yap is currently the most powerful of the Philippine Navy’s vessels, it will be used as a training platform ahead of the arrival of two brand new frigates, also from HHI, in 2020 and 2021.

President Rodrigo Duterte approved the Navy’s Corvette Acquisition Program in May.

On Friday, August 23, Lorenzana told reporters that the Navy preferred to get the two new corvettes, together worth P30 billion, from HHI, too.

“Hindi pa naman napirmahan sa Hyundai pero ‘yun ang gusto ng Navy dahil para isa lang ang gagawa ng ating frigate at saka 'yung corvettes, para ‘yung sistema nila is pare-pareho, ‘yung parts," said Lorenzana, emphasizing the importance of the vessels’ interoperability. (We haven’t signed anything with Hyundai but that’s what the Navy wants so that our frigates and corvettes will come from the same manufacturer, so that their systems and parts will be the same.)
The acquisition of the brand new corvettes will be through a government-to-government financing agreement, in which the Philippines could pay South Korea over a period of 5 to 10 years, Lorenzana added.

HHI is expected to deliver the Navy’s missile-capable Rizal-class frigates in the next two years: the BRP Jose Rizal in 2020, and the BRP Antonio Luna in 2021.

The new corvettes will be even more powerful than the frigates, and together, the new vessels will step up the Navy’s capabilities as the Philippines faces a persistent security challenge from China in the West Philippine Sea and beyond.

“I would like it to be done as soon as possible,” Lorenzana said. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/238448-philippines-buy-navy-corvettes-south-korea-receive-more

PCG mourns passing of deputy commandant for operations

From Rappler (Aug 25, 2019): PCG mourns passing of deputy commandant for operations

'[Vice Admiral Rolando Legaspi was] a great leader and a big loss to the PCG,' Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson Captain Armand Balilo says



PHilippine coast Guard Vice Admiral Rolando Legaspi. Photo from PCG Facebook

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) mourned the passing of Vice Admiral Rolando Legaspi, described as an official who was “very humble and simple, and well-loved by all.”

Captain Armand Balilo, PCG spokesperson, said the 55-year-old Legaspi died from cardiac arrest on Wednesday, August 21.


Legaspi, the deputy commandant for operations, was the PCG officer-in-charge at the time of his death while PCG commandant, Admiral Elson Hermogino, was on an official trip in Israel, Balilo said.

According to Balilo, Legaspi’s “last act” was to preside over the turnover ceremony of the PCG’s Gender and Development and Internal Audit Offices last August 20, Tuesday.

“We are mourning. He is a great leader and a big loss to the PCG. Well-loved ng mga tao. Napaka-humble at napaka-simple (He is well-loved by the people; very humble and very simple),” Balilo said, still referring to Legaspi in the present tense.

The PCG held a memorial service for Legaspi at the PCG Headquarters on Friday. Another memorial service at the Bonifacio Naval Station was held the following night, which was attended by the official’s mistahs from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Hinirang” Class of 1987.

“He had served as a real inspiration to many and will long be remembered for the professionalism and strong character he exemplified,” the PCG said in a Facebook post.

Legaspi had commanded major units such as PCG districts in the National Capital Region-Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, and Palawan.

A decorated officer, Legaspi served as chief of the PCG’s Marine Environmental Protection Command, Surface Support Force, Education and Training Command.

Legaspi was also the commanding officer of two Coast Guard search and rescue vessels namely BRP Davao Del Norte (SARV 3504) and BRP Pampanga (SARV 004).

Legaspi’s internment is on August 28, Wednesday, at the Mt. Zion Memorial Park in Bonuan Boquig, Dagupan, Pangasinan. He is survived by his wife Suzanne and two children, Roljend Peeme and Rae-Ann Philline. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/238519-pcg-mourns-passing-of-deputy-commandant-for-operations

Pampanga peace council declares CPP-NPA ‘persona non grata’

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 25, 2019): Pampanga peace council declares CPP-NPA ‘persona non grata’



NO TO CPP-NPA. Governor Dennis Pineda signs a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (PCC-NPA) as persona non-grata during a meeting with the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) on Friday (Aug. 23, 2019). The PPOC and the Provincial Development Council also signed a joint resolution to establish the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC). (Contributed photo)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga -- The Pampanga Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has declared members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as ‘persona non grata.’

The declaration was approved by the officers and members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) led by Governor Dennis Pineda with the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) during the councils’ joint meeting Friday.

It was signed by Pineda, department heads of the provincial government, and mayors of the province.

“Despite our sincere efforts to make peace with the CPP-NPA, they incessantly continue to besmirch the reputation of the government to its citizenry,” he said.

Pursuant to Executive Order 70 series of 2018 or the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, the PPOC assembled to address and combat the communist insurgency problem in the province.

“Although it was previously declared that the province is insurgency free, we have to take actions because the CPP-NPA did not stop trying to rebuild their influence here,” the governor said.

“We must condemn their illegal activities and recognize that their presence is detrimental to peace and development,” he added.

To deal with this, the PPOC and the Provincial Development Council (PDC) signed a joint resolution to establish the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

Pineda will act as the chairperson of the PTF- ELCAC.

“The PTF-ELCAC aims to cease threats and communist issues in the province and achieve sustainable peace,” he said.

Myrvi Apostol-Fabia, DILG provincial director and PPOC head secretariat, said the PTF-ELCAC will provide a mechanism to aid the realization of the collective aspiration of the Filipinos to attain inclusive peace in the province.

“To achieve this, the PTF-ELCAC will ensure the creation of task forces in the municipal and city levels,” she added.