‘Big guns’ mulled for PCG vessels

From the Philippine Star (Feb 16, 2023): ‘Big guns’ mulled for PCG vessels (By Robertzon Ramirez)

Interviewed by “The Chiefs” on Cignal TV’s One News, PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said the possibility of arming PCG vessels will be studied, but it will still abide by its mandate to avoid any confrontation with the China Coast Guard (CCG) despite its aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.  CGPA / CG LTJG D Baterbonia

MANILA, Philippines — While intending to stay true to its mandate to preserve peace and de-escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Tuesday that it is considering arming its vessels with “big guns.”

Interviewed by “The Chiefs” on Cignal TV’s One News, PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said the possibility of arming PCG vessels will be studied, but it will still abide by its mandate to avoid any confrontation with the China Coast Guard (CCG) despite its aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.

“Perhaps we will study and see if it is really warranted to have big guns on our ships,” Balilo, speaking partly in Filipino, said.

Balilo emphasized that all PCG vessels have no guns because they are designed mainly for maritime law enforcement and the preservation of peace, upon which their mandate was established.

However, recent aggressive behavior by CCG vessels in the West Philippine Sea has raised questions on how the PCG should respond, particularly to the laser-pointing incident that resulted in the temporary blindness of a Filipino coast guardsman.

Asked what the PCG’s plan of action would be if such aggression is repeated, Balilo said: “We’ll go back to the mandate of the coast guard... We preserve the peace and if there is such a situation, the bottom line is to de-escalate the situation.”

He said they could divert or change routes, if necessary, just to avoid any confrontation.

Asked if they intend to tweak their mandate and arm their vessels with guns similar to their Chinese counterpart’s vessels, Balilo said doing so would be costly for the government.

“It would consume a lot of money to fund having those guns. And, in the first place, arms of the coast guard are for law enforcement, not combat or even engage in a combat stance,” he said.

Coast guards around the world are “supposed to impose laws, but not to engage in any provocative stance that might lead to war,” he added.

For this reason, Balilo said he is wondering why the CCG’s vessels are armed with guns and other equipment apparently used to intimidate ships of other countries that they monitored in the waters they claim to be under their jurisdiction.

Recalling an incident in August last year in the West Philippine Sea, the PCG spokesman said Chinese naval guns were exposed as a “warning” to a PCG vessel that came close to its path, prompting them to de-escalate the situation.

Asked how they would describe China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea, Balilo said that it is a “clear flexing of muscles of China’s coast guard in the area” as they are showing their strength and intentions to prevent vessels in their so-called territories.

Balilo said that the “white-to-white ship” engagement of the Philippine government will remain in the West Philippine Sea as he emphasized that the government cannot deploy gray ships or implement the “Navy to Navy approach” as it would mean war.

Coast guard ships are white and naval or warships are gray.

“We get orders to engage them on a white-to-white diplomacy, on a white-to-white engagement. Now, if government policy requires our replacement in the area, we are bound to obey,” Balilo said.

On the aggression exhibited by the CCG in Ayungin Shoal where some Filipino fishermen were told to leave the area and shadowed by the Chinese militia as well as the directing of a military-grade laser on a PCG vessel, Balilo said photos and videos have been gathered for use by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as evidence in a diplomatic protest against China.

However, Balilo said diplomatic protests seem useless, as “nothing is happening, we all know that as clear as the sun.”

At present, everything depends on how the Philippine government and Chinese government talk to address the problem of tensions in the West Philippine Sea, he added.

MDT might be invoked

In Congress, a senator said the country may find itself invoking the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States if the recent laser-pointing action by a CCG ship against a PCG vessel is repeated or any injurious incident happens.

Sen. Francis Tolentino said he disagreed with former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio that the MDT should be invoked, but acknowledged “the alarming scale” of what Chinese coast guard vessels are doing against Philippine vessels.

“It’s not yet there, it’s almost there. An attack, probably an armed attack, can be considered as one that would be lethal, although there can be temporary blindness if that’s the right term to be used,” Tolentino told ANC, referring to the temporary loss of sight suffered by the PCG crew.

“But again, it shows the heightened provocative action being done by the Coast Guard of China and it’s nearing that point,” added the chairman of the Senate foreign relations committee.

When asked what similar action could trigger the MDT, he said: “When the ship is attacked that would perhaps endanger the lives of the crew, when it would be disabled, when a maneuver is done that would disorient not just the crew members but perhaps would lead to almost capsizing. Those events that would go into that boundary of armed lethalness, lethal as a consequence,” he said.

Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito agreed with Tolentino that President Marcos did the right thing when he summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian, given past harassments done by the Chinese coast guard.

“They (China) tell us we’re friends but do something different behind our backs,” Ejercito said in Filipino.

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano meanwhile urged the government to strengthen and simplify its strategy in dealing with issues in the West Philippine Sea, saying the latest incident was just “a symptom” of a more complicated underlying problem.

“We should not tolerate any form of aggression. The issue is complicated, but let us simplify it,” Cayetano, who served as foreign affairs secretary during the Duterte administration, said.

He said other countries that have dispute issues in the West Philippine Sea like Malaysia and Vietnam have strengthened their national strategies, including diplomacy and their armed forces and alliances with other countries.

In contrast, the Philippines has been changing its policies with each new administration, said Cayetano.

The advantage, however, is that the Philippines has tried both approaches and can now move forward with a better perspective.

He said the government should deliberate on whether joint military exercises and patrols with other countries in the West Philippine Sea really help or just aggravate the situation.

VFA, other alliances

In the House of Representatives, a senior lawmaker said it is time that the Philippine government negotiates with several other key allies in the region and forge military alliances that will protect the country’s national interest, like signing more visiting forces agreements with countries other than the US.

Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez urged the President yesterday to forge defense and security cooperation not only with Japan as reported recently, but also with Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea.

“We should negotiate and enter into VFAs, like the one we have with the US, in the face of heightened threats from China, the latest of which is the use of a military-grade laser on our Coast Guard vessel, which temporarily blinded its personnel,” he said.

He said the continued employment by China of harassment tactics on PCG and Navy personnel and Filipino fishermen “is unacceptable and detestable and beyond the realm of civilized conduct.”

Fisherfolk group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) has expressed its opposition to a VFA with Japan and the triad or Tripartite Defense Agreement or among the Philippines, Japan and US.

“Like pouring gasoline on fire, a military pact with another foreign power like Japan will not de-escalate tension in the West Philippine Sea but will instead inflame it,” Pamalakaya national chairman Fernando Hicap said in a statement.

Hicap said that “the more, the merrier” foreign policy of President Marcos just demonstrates his “indignity and lack of political will to defend our country’s sovereignty, patrimony and independence.”

For his part, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers called on the government to “stand up against China aggression.”

“Now that China has finally owned up to its cowardly act of bullying us in our territorial seas, we condemn in the strongest terms these acts of aggression,” Barbers said.

Promotion

Meanwhile, the President promoted 10 PCG officials to the ranks of vice admiral and rear admiral.

Based on the list released by the Presidential Communications Office, Rear Admirals Joseph Coyme, Robert Patrimonio and Ronnie Gil Gavan now hold the rank of vice admiral, the second highest among PCG commissioned officers.

Coyme currently serves as the commander of the PCG’s Maritime Safety Services Command, while Patrimonio heads the Marine Environmental Protection Command.

Gavan, on the other hand, is the PCG’s deputy commandant for administration.

Commodores Gregorio Adel Jr., Armando Balilo, Hostillo Arturo Cornelio, Eustacio Nimrod Enriquez Jr., Edgardo Hernando, Rudyard Somera and Nelson Torre have also been promoted as rear admirals. – Paolo Romero, Delon Porcalla, Elizabeth Marcelo, Helen Flores

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/02/16/2245350/big-guns-mulled-pcg-vessels

As Japan and Philippines seek closer defence ties, could trilateral pact with US be next?

From the South China Morning Post (Feb 15, 2023): As Japan and Philippines seek closer defence ties, could trilateral pact with US be next? (By Julian Ryall)

• Manila and Tokyo have signed a proposed agreement to cooperate on disaster relief, a measure widely seen as a step towards a defence pact
• The Philippines is a ‘perfect ally’ for Japan as it plays an important geopolitical role in the South China Sea, analysts said

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (right) conclude a joint press conference regarding a potential reciprocal military access agreement. Photo: Reuters/File

As the Philippines seeks to deepen its security cooperation with Japan days after granting the US greater access to its military facilities, some observers say a trilateral security alliance would be a logical next step amid concerns over China’s growing power in the region.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida signed a proposed agreement in Tokyo on Sunday that would permit the two nations’ armed forces to cooperate on disaster relief, a measure widely seen as a stepping stone towards a pact that will allow the deployment of military units on each other’s territory.

The move came as Marcos earlier this month granted US forces greater access to Philippine military facilities, a decision that China was quick to criticise on the grounds that it undermined regional stability and raised tensions.

In anticipation of more criticism from Beijing, Marcos was keen to underline that his government would be cautious in pushing ahead with any new security arrangement with Tokyo, “because we do not want to appear provocative”.

In many ways, the Philippines is the perfect ally for Japan as Manila is facing many of the same challenges from Beijing as Tokyo is Yakov Zinberg, Kokushikan University

With tensions in the region increasing, notably over the future of Taiwan, experts said Japan was likely to want to forge closer ties between the two nations’ militaries sooner rather than later.

“In many ways, the Philippines is the perfect ally for Japan as Manila is facing many of the same challenges from Beijing as Tokyo is,” said Yakov Zinberg, a professor of international relations at Tokyo’s Kokushikan University.

“Both nations are locked into territorial disputes with China – the Philippines over some of the atolls in the South China Sea and Japan over the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea – and that in many ways bring them together,” he said. Beijing claims the Senkaku archipelago as its sovereign territory which it calls the Diaoyu Islands.

Expanding ties in the region is also important for Tokyo and Washington, and the idea of a trilateral security alliance that includes the US “makes complete sense”. Zinberg said that it may also form the basis for an expanded arrangement that brings in other nations with concerns about the growing power – and willingness to use that power – of China.

Stephen Nagy, an associate professor of international relations at Tokyo’s International Christian University, said the key consideration for both governments was Taiwan.

“A military partnership with the Philippines will enable it to serve as a base for power projection and deterrence against a third country,” Nagy said. “Manila has already signed a pact with the US to that effect and another agreement with Tokyo will serve to make this a trilateral agreement.”

The Philippines plays a very important geopolitical role in the South China Sea, regional sea lanes and, critically, in the security of Taiwan, he said.

“Manila is concerned about a contingency involving Taiwan and the impact that any conflict would have on sea lanes, but also the impact on the wider region if [mainland] China is successful in an attack on Taiwan,” Nagy added.

A Philippine coastguard ship sails near a Chinese coastguard ship around the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. Photo: AFP/File

While Marcos has stated his policy is to be “a friend of everyone, an enemy of no one”, that position may become harder to sustain. The Philippines has had a long and storied relationship with the US, while there has been deep resentment at how China has occupied islands and atolls in the South China Sea, as well as surrounding fishing waters, that have previously been considered part of the Philippines.

I am expecting more military exchanges between the two nations, although I do not believe the arrangement will go as far as Tokyo providing Manila with arms Stephen Nagy, International Christian University

Manila had no response when hundreds of Chinese fishing boats crowded one of the small islets last year, forcing Filipino fishermen to leave the area. Hostilities towards Beijing took another turn, following reports the crew of a Philippine Coast Guard ship were temporarily blinded earlier this month when a “military grade” laser was aimed at their vessel by a Chinese Coast Guard cutter off Thomas Shoal, 195km off Palawan Province.

Japan has already provided help in the form of naval patrol boats and communications equipment, Nagy pointed out, with the new security arrangement meaning that more such aid is likely to be forthcoming in the future.

“Japan will try to enhance the Philippines’ capacity in the key area of maritime defence, communications, its coastguard capabilities, in joint training and managing ‘grey zone’ situations,” he said. “I am expecting more military exchanges between the two nations, although I do not believe the arrangement will go as far as Tokyo providing Manila with arms.”

https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3210189/japan-and-philippines-seek-closer-defence-ties-could-trilateral-pact-us-be-next

8ID reorganizes Defense Press Corps, cites media role in info dissemination

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 15, 2023): 8ID reorganizes Defense Press Corps, cites media role in info dissemination (By 8ID)

CATBALOGAN CITY -- Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, commander of the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division (8ID), recognized the contribution of the media practitioners in Eastern Visayas during the reorganization of 8ID Press Corps on Sunday, February 12.

In his speech, Maj. Gen. Ligayo cited the journalists’ hard work as partners in disseminating accurate and timely information.

“I would like to thank the 8ID press corps for being a reliable partner in our fight of telling the truth to the people of Eastern Visayas. If we work together, we can continue to make difference and indeed we can accomplish our common goal, to serve the people," Ligayo said.

The new 8ID Press Corps officers took their oath of office before Ligayo.

Meriam T. Desacada of the Philippine Star was elected as the new President who urged her fellow media practitioners to unite and set aside differences.

“We are journalists and inside the Press Corps, we must have unity, which means we must work together for the common good. There is no other way to merit us to be called journalism professionals, except to show to the 8th ID and the public that we are men and women of integrity and credibility in the profession,” said Desacada.

Other officers elected were: Vice-President: Gina Dean of Kauswagan Radio; Secretary: Elmer Recuerdo of Daily Tribune; Treasurer: Josie Serseña of Eastern Visayas Mail; Auditor: Imelda Magbutay of Agence France Press; Sgt. at Arms: Dan Kerk Requiez of FMR Tacloban; Leyte Representative: Jasmin Bonifacio of Rappler; Southern Leyte Representative: Jade Nombrado; Samar Representative: Rene Castino of DYMS Catbalogan; Eastern Samar Representative: Bong Moscosa of GMA 7 Stringer; Northern Samar Representative: Danny Balading; and Biliran Representative: Mark Escol.

Before the election, the journalists from different media outlets in Eastern Visayas gathered for a two-day activity for team building to strengthen the corps' unity and camaraderie. The reorganization of the press corps aims to facilitate the dissemination of the programs and projects of the 8ID in Region 8.

Among the activities conducted were marksmanship, command briefing, and team building. (8ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/press-releases/2023/02/15/8id-reorganizes-defense-press-corps-cites-media-role-in-info-dissemination

[ANALYSIS] The Philippines: A US logistics hub

Posted to Rappler (Feb 16, 2023): [ANALYSIS] The Philippines: A US logistics hub (By MANNY MOGATO)

The country should brace for increased deployment of American forces and equipment in the months ahead

The United States never goes into a conflict unprepared.

It prepositions its supplies, equipment and military forces in an area close to a conflict area before launching an attack against a hostile force.

Before it started to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait in the early 1990s, the US deployed tens of thousands of troops, hundreds of tanks, and armored vehicles in nearby Saudi Arabia and then mounted Operation Desert Storm in January 1991, a two-pronged offensive to liberate Kuwait.

The US and allied forces established air superiority before tanks and armored vehicles rolled in from Saudi Arabia into Iraq and Kuwait. Logistics was a key element in Operation Desert Storm. It was the largest overseas military deployment since World War II.

Nearly half a million troops were deployed in Saudi Arabia months before the operation. Hundreds of US, French, and British fighters, as well as six US Navy carrier battle groups, were also prepositioned around Iraq and Kuwait.

In only 100 hours during the land war phase of the military operation, the US-led coalition forces routed Saddam Hussein’s occupation forces, freeing Kuwait.

But the coalition forces stopped short of crossing into the Iraqi border. The destruction of Saddam Hussein ‘s Iraq would come a decade later in the Second Gulf War.
Lessons from Ukraine

Fast forward to February 2022 when Russia, Europe’s largest army, crossed into Ukraine to annex its western and southern territories, the Russian army’s advance was stopped by its lack of fuel supplies and other logistics.

A year into the conflict, European states belonging to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) are racing against the clock to produce war materiel, including munitions, to supply Ukraine and sustain its effort to stop the Russian invasion.

Again, logistics is the key in the Ukraine conflict.

These lessons are pushing Washington to seek additional locations in the Philippines where the US can preposition troops, equipment, supplies, and spare parts in case a conflict erupted in the Indo-Pacific region.

Three of the four potential locations are in northern Luzon, close to the Taiwan Straits, a potential flashpoint as tensions around the self-ruled island rose after Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the US House of Representatives, made a pit stop in August 2022 during her Asian swing.

China has been sending waves of aircraft to test Taiwan’s readiness. China’s People’s Liberation Army-Navy has been holding live drills around the island. An American four-star general had warned that a hot conflict with China over Taiwan could erupt in two years. And Washington has committed to defend Taipei from an invasion from Beijing.

China’s invading force could come in from the Bashi Channel in the northern Luzon region, making Philippine military bases, which the US has access to, critical.

Hub for fighter jets

The US Air Force has no presence in this part of the region. Its fighters are based in Japan, South Korea and Guam – too far from the hotspots.

The US Marines and Army are similarly stationed too far from the potential conflict zone. The US Navy has no problem since two carrier battle groups roam freely the South China Sea and East China Sea and could sail within days in Taiwan Straits.

The US needs Philippine military bases to preposition its logistics similar to what it did in the two Gulf Wars decades ago.

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Keeping huge military bases which could be vulnerable to attacks from hostile forces are things of the past, as America moves to disperse its forces that would allow it to be more agile and mobile and less vulnerable to enemies.

That could be the reason why Washington has added more locations under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), distributing logistics hubs for its air and ground forces.

The US, during emergencies, could also request additional sites which are not military facilities, such as what happened during the Second Gulf War when US Air Force fighters landed and took off to refuel in a commercial airport in Basco, Batanes, before returning to their bases in Okinawa.

The fact is, the US has greater access to Philippine military and non-military facilities outside EDCA. It has unconventional forces deployed in the southern Philippines to train and advise local troops in fighting Islamist militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. The US Navy and US Army have access to Subic Freeport in Central Luzon – after US defense contractors agreed to locate to the former Hanjin shipyard, which was taken over by US-based Cerberus Capital Management.

Even before EDCA was signed in 2014, US surveillance planes P3C-Orions and P8 Poseidon already had access to Clark Field in Pampanga, also in Central Luzon.

The entire Philippines could become a large US military facility where it can be used not only as a logistics base but as a launching pad for offensive actions, such as what happened in the 1960s and 1970s in Subic and Clark during the Vietnam War.

During a visit to Tokyo last week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said that given its geography, it will be hard to imagine that the Philippines won’t be drawn to a potential conflict in Taiwan.

Whether the Philippines allows or not the US military forces to temporarily rotate in its local bases, Manila would still be dragged into a conflict, anyway, because of the Philippines-US 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

It is of course hoped that the US will not deploy tens of thousands of troops and a huge pile of logistics in the country in case a conflict erupts in the region.

But the reality is, as tensions persist, the Philippines should brace for increased deployment of US forces, equipment, and supplies in the months ahead. 

[Manny Mogato is veteran defense reporter who won the Pulitzer in 2018 for Reuters’ reporting on the Philippines’ war on drugs, the author is a former Reuters journalist.]

https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/analysis-philippines-as-logistics-hub-united-states/

US renews warning it'll defend Philippines after China spat

Posted to The Press Democrat (Feb 15, 2023): US renews warning it'll defend Philippines after China spat (By JIM GOMEZ/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

The U.S. renewed a warning that it would defend its treaty ally if Filipino forces come under attack in the disputed South China Sea, after a Chinese coast guard ship allegedly hit a Philippine patrol vessel with military-grade laser.

SLIDE 1 OF 4
This photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a Chinese coast guard ship in the disputed South China Sea, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. The Philippines on Monday, Feb. 13, accused a Chinese coast guard ship of hitting a Philippine coast guard vessel with a military-grade laser and temporarily blinding some of its crew in the disputed South China Sea, calling it a "blatant" violation of Manila's sovereign rights. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)

MANILA, Philippines — The United States renewed a warning that it would defend its treaty ally if Filipino forces come under attack in the disputed South China Sea, after a Chinese coast guard ship allegedly hit a Philippine patrol vessel with military-grade laser that briefly blinded some of its crew.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian in Manila on Tuesday to express his serious concern “over the increasing frequency and intensity of actions by China against the Philippine coast guard and fishermen," Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said without elaborating.

The Department of Foreign Affairs separately sent a strongly worded diplomatic protest to the Chinese Embassy that “condemned the shadowing, harassment, dangerous maneuvers, directing of military-grade laser, and illegal radio challenges” by the Chinese ship.

The incident took place Feb. 6. when the Chinese coast guard ship beamed high-grade lasers to block the Philippine patrol vessel BRP Malapascua from approaching Second Thomas Shoal on a resupply mission to Filipino forces there, according to Philippine officials.

China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, putting it on a collision course with other claimants. Chinese naval forces have been accused of using military-grade lasers previously against Australian military aircraft on patrol in the South China Sea and other spots in the Pacific.

Despite friendly overtures to Beijing by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in January in Beijing, tensions have persisted, drawing in closer military alliance between the Philippines and the U.S.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said Monday that a Philippine coast guard vessel trespassed into Chinese waters without permission. Chinese coast guard vessels responded “professionally and with restraint at the site in accordance with China’s law and international law,” he said, without elaborating or mentioning the use of laser.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said China’s “dangerous operational behavior directly threatens regional peace and stability, infringes upon freedom of navigation in the South China Sea as guaranteed under international law and undermines the rules-based international order."

“The United States stands with our Philippine allies,” Price said in a statement.

He said that an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft, including those of the coast guard in the South China Sea, would invoke U.S. mutual defense commitments under a 1951 treaty. The treaty obligates the allies to help defend one another in case of an external attack.

Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims in the resource-rich and busy waterway, where a bulk of the world’s commerce and oil transits.

Washington lays no claims to the disputed sea but has deployed forces to patrol the waters to promote freedom of navigation and overflight — moves that have angered Beijing, which has warned Washington to stop meddling in what it says is a purely Asian dispute.

The contested waters have become a volatile front in the broader rivalry between the U.S. and China in Asia and beyond.

Price said the Chinese coast guard’s “provocative and unsafe” conduct interfered with the Philippines’ “lawful operations” in and around Second Thomas Shoal.

In July, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on China to comply with a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated Beijing’s vast territorial claims in the South China Sea and warned that Washington was obligated to defend the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

On Monday, Price reiterated that the “legally binding decision” underscored that China “has no lawful maritime claims to the Second Thomas Shoal.” China has long rejected the ruling and continues to defy it.

The Philippines filed nearly 200 diplomatic protests against China’s aggressive actions in the disputed waters in 2022 alone.

Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.

https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/us-renews-warning-itll-defend-philippines-after-china-spat/

China says US using MDT for intimidation

 From the Philippine Star (Feb 16, 2023): China says US using MDT for intimidation (Pia Lee-Brago)

“The US invokes its Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines at every turn in an attempt to intimidate China, but it will not weaken our resolve and will to safeguard China’s legitimate and lawful rights and interests,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said in a press conference Tuesday.  CSIS / AMTI via DigitalGlobe

MANILA, Philippines — China has slammed the United States for raising the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the Philippines “to intimidate” Beijing as it defended the aggressive actions of its coast guard patrols against Filipino vessels in the West Philippine Sea.

“The US invokes its Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines at every turn in an attempt to intimidate China, but it will not weaken our resolve and will to safeguard China’s legitimate and lawful rights and interests,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said in a press conference Tuesday.

The US State Department said the “US stands with our Philippine allies” in the face of the Chinese Coast Guard’s reported use of a laser device against the crew of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel in the South China Sea.

The Philippines had protested China’s dangerous maneuvers and use of military-grade laser against a PCG ship on a resupply mission near Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

President Marcos summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to express serious concern over the increasing frequency and intensity of actions of China against the PCG and Filipino fishermen.

Despite China’s laser use against a Philippine ship, Beijing described the overall situation in Ayungin Shoal as “calm,” claiming that the CCG’s actions were “professional” and “restrained.”

Wang said the Philippines and China have discussed the incident in Ayungin Shoal.

“Earlier, we shared the facts and actual circumstances of the incident as well as China’s principled position. We would like to stress again that what the China Coast Guard did was professional and restrained,” he said.

But State Department spokesman Ned Price said China’s dangerous operational behavior directly threatens regional pace and stability, infringes upon freedom of navigation in the South China Sea as guaranteed under international law and undermines the rules-based international order.

The US reaffirmed that an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, public vessels or aircraft, including those of Coast Guard in the South China Sea, would invoke US mutual defense commitments under the MDT.

Wang called the South China Sea arbitration case initiated by the Philippines against China a “political drama” orchestrated by the US.

“We would also like to point out that the South China Sea arbitration case brought by the Philippines was pure political drama orchestrated by the US,” Wang said. “Its so-called ruling is illegal, null and void and will have no effect whatsoever on China’s claims to rights in the South China Sea.”

Nations express concern

The United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and Australia expressed serious concern over China’s intimidatory actions in the South China Sea, saying the CCG actions are “dangerous” acts in violation of international law.

“The UK supports and joins the Philippines in expressing our serious concern regarding the intimidatory actions towards lawfully operating Philippines vessels in the South China Sea. These dangerous acts are in violation of international law,” the British embassy in Manila said in a statement.

The UK, the embassy said, is unwavering in its position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and that the 2016 arbitral decision is final and legally binding.

German Ambassador Anke Reiffenstuel expressed concern over China’s actions.

She said that all nations must follow the UNCLOS, noting that the arbitral ruling on the South China Sea was final.

“We call to refrain from any conduct that increases tensions. All states must abide by #UNCLOS. The 2016 Arbitral Award is final and legally binding,” Reiffenstuel said.

Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa said all states should observe maritime order, citing the 2016 arbitral ruling.

“We express serious concerns about dangerous behavior against Philippine vessels,” Koshikawa said in a Twitter post.

“Recall that 2016 Arbitral Award is final and legally binding. We firmly oppose any action that increase tensions,” he said.

Australia called CCG’s actions against Philippine ship “unsafe and intimidatory.”

In a Twitter post, Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu said Australia continues to “call for peace, stability and respect for international law in the South China Sea, a vital international waterway.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the acts of aggression by China are “disturbing and disappointing” as it came after the President’s state visit to China in early January during which he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to “manage maritime differences through diplomacy and dialogue, without resorting to force and intimidation.”

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/02/16/2245337/china-says-us-using-mdt-intimidation

Philippine Army shifts focus to territorial defense amid regional tensions

From BenarNews (Feb 15, 2023): Philippine Army shifts focus to territorial defense amid regional tensions (By Camille Elemia)

Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. discusses the military’s shift in focus during a news conference at army headquarters in Manila, Feb. 15, 2023.  Jojo Riñoza/BenarNews

The Philippine Army has shifted its focus to territorial defense from internal security fueled by China’s increasing assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea, the army’s commanding general said Wednesday.

Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. told reporters that troops required a change of mindset to focus on an external enemy from fighting southern insurgents and communists.

“We are now transitioning from an internal security operations focus to territorial defense,” Brawner told reporters at the army headquarters.

The commander had been asked to comment on the military’s call for Beijing to restrain its forces in the South China Sea after a Chinese Coast Guard ship performed dangerous maneuvers and pointed a military-grade laser at a Philippine Coast Guard ship this week.

“There is a common theme among armies around the world: wars will be fought on land so we have to be prepared,” Brawner said.

As part of the military’s modernization program, the army has in recent years acquired more weapons, including an Autonomous Truck Mounted Howitzer System (ATMOS 2000) 155mm self-propelled guns – the biggest in the Army’s arsenal ­– multi-launch rocket systems and land-based missile systems.

“If any invaders come near the land of the Philippines or inland, your [army] is ready to defend the nation,” Brawner said.

Along with the weapons upgrades, training must reflect the changing military landscape, he said.

“It’s really reorganizing our organization and training our troops to address external threats,” Brawner said.

The Philippines is at the center of geopolitical tensions in Asia involving the South China Sea in the west and Taiwan in the north.

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea including territories within the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan.

Beijing has continued to ignore an international arbitration court’s 2016 ruling in favor the Philippines that invalidated its expansive claims.

Last month, China renewed its threats to invade Taiwan, which it considers a rogue province.

Meanwhile, U.S. Air Force Gen. Mike Minihan warned that a war could break out in 2025.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (right) expresses concern over Beijing’s actions in the South China Sea during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian in Manila, Feb. 14, 2023. [Presidential Communications Office handout]

Improved relations

The Philippines recently granted the United States access to four additional military sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, a move seen as central to Washington’s effort in deterring Beijing’s plans to attack Taiwan.

In addition, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who was in Tokyo last week, said he was open to entering into a visiting forces agreement with Japan.

China has opposed such plans, with state media warning the Philippines against being used by the U.S. and Japan.

The army supports an improved relationship with Tokyo, Brawner said, as it would allow more soldiers to perform military and human assistance and disaster relief exercises with their Japanese counterparts. He noted that Philippine troops sent to Turkey to help rescue operations following the massive earthquake were “trained and equipped by the Japanese government.”

The army chief also welcomed proposals for the Philippines to enter into similar visiting forces agreements with allies including New Zealand, South Korea and other Southeast Asian countries.

Citing the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Brawner emphasized the importance of allied forces working together.

“If we look at what is happening now in the world, interoperability is very important. It has to start with trainings,” he said.

“I think if we are allowed to train with our partners, it would be more beneficial not just for the Philippine government, Armed Forces of the Philippines, I believe also for their armed forces,” he said.

The Philippines and the U.S. plan to hold larger joint army exercises this year, with around 3,000 troops from both nations expected to take part in Exercise Salaknib, up from 2,200 last year.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/military-shift-02152023143300.html

Recent Arrest Puts Jemaah Islamiyah Back in the Spotlight

Posted to The Diplomat (Feb 13, 2023): Recent Arrest Puts Jemaah Islamiyah Back in the Spotlight (By By Rakyan Adibrata and Jasminder Singh)

An arrest last year demonstrates that JI’s network has expanded considerably, despite the extremist group’s recent period of dormancy.



Police escort suspected militants upon arrival at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Indonesia, Thursday, March 18, 2021. The militants are believed to be connected to the al-Qaida-linked Jemaah Islamiyah extremist group.Credit: AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim

The announcement by the Indonesian authorities that Askary Sibghotul Haq, the son of former Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) leader Para Wijayanto, has been in their custody since April 2022 has put the notorious militant group back into the spotlight. Askary’s arrest in Bandung came at a time when the Indonesian security apparatus was conducting a broad clampdown on JI, during which it conducted raids on JI cells and arrested scores of its members. If convicted under Indonesia’s anti-terrorism laws, Askary faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Who is Askary Sibghotul Haq?

Askary Sibghotul Haq was a prominent leader of JI and the former head of its international relations wing from 2015 to 2019. Late last month, he was put on trial on charges of facilitating the travel of JI members to train in Syria a decade ago. Prior to his arrest, Askary went to Syria in 2013. where, according to BenarNews, he remained for a month and connected with the Free Syria Army (FSA) to train JI members.

In 2015, Askary traveled to India to meet with members of the Pakistani terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). LeT would likely have been in a position to provide him with training and access to LeT networks that could be of assistance in terms of arms procurement and finances. Askary’s links with the LeT could also have facilitated the import of the latter’s radical and violent ideology into Southeast Asia, leading to growing radicalization in the region as well as a possible development of closer ties between radical groups in South Asia, especially Pakistan, and in Southeast Asia. However, Askary was deported from India, where he had been listed as a terrorist.

Back in Indonesia, he was allowed to go free because under the 2003 Anti-Terrorism Law, it was then not illegal under the law to travel to Syria or to facilitate the travel of others. The Anti-Terrorism Law was amended in 2018 to close this loophole.

Askary was subsequently appointed as the head of JI’s international relations wing, a position he held until his father’s arrest in 2019. When he returned to Indonesia after being deported from India in 2015, he reportedly sent five batches of members to Syria for military training with Ahrar Al-Sham. According to some Indonesian prosecutors, JI had also approached the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS, and Jabhat al-Nusra to train JI members, but negotiations with those groups failed. Under the leadership of his father Para Wijayanto, Askary also ventured to Vietnam in 2012 to study the bunker system utilized during the Vietnam war and how to use AK-47 rifles.

Askary’s transnational operations flew under the radar in the mid-2010s, likely due to Indonesia’s concentration of law enforcement resources on the then proliferating threat posed by various emerging IS-affiliated groups in the country. A question worth asking is that given Askary’s combat experience in Syria, was he preparing to lead a violent faction associated with JI? Previously, JI’s violent faction was associated with Hambali, who helped plan and carry out the 2002 Bali bombings, and disagreed with the JI central leadership, which was more focused on dawah (missionary activities).

The Recent Jemaah Islamiyah Arrests

The arrest of several key Jemaah Islamiyah figures has had an extraordinary effect on the organization and its members. Successive arrests have targeted the members of its Shura Council (Advisory Council), and its amir, treasurer, and deputy of intelligence, which are collectively in charge of sending JI members to Syria and in charge of sasana (paramilitary training).

Dating back to the Bali bombings of October 2002, periodic arrests have hampered JI’s development and caused it to fracture. Amongst those detained in the immediate aftermath of the attacks was Abu Rusydan, who was the amir of JI from 2000 to 2003. Internally, it took five years for JI to recover from the post-bombing crackdown, given that individuals in key positions had either been eliminated or arrested, even though after Abu Rusydan was quickly replaced by another amir.

When Para Wijayanto took charge as JI’s amir in 2008, the organization had been nearly wiped out due to government crackdowns since 2000. Para Wijayanto was then arrested in July 2019 and is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence.

The JI also suffered a major setback in 2022 after 120 of its members revoked their pledge of allegiance to the group in Lampung. This event came after the security agencies arrested key JI figures of Jemaah Islamiyah, including Askary. However, unlike the JAD, MIT, or other splinter groups which have been operationally weakened more recently, the JI still retains a strong organizational culture. The group retains a strong foundation in terms of financial resources and organizational doctrines with which to revive itself.

The Quiet JI

While the JI has suffered from the incarceration of its leader, its decentralized structure has created lines of succession. There are two JI-associated figures whose voices can still play a significant role within JI despite the various arrests that have occurred. These individuals are Bambang Sukirno and Ibnu Thoyyib, both of whom are from Solo province in East Java.

Bambang Sukirno, also known as “Bangkir,” was very close to Dr. Sunardi, an alleged JI member who died in a shootout with Densus 88 in Sukoharjo in March of last year, and Dipo Azhari, who was arrested in August 2021 in Tuban. Bambang has been closely associated with the Islamist humanitarian agency Hilal Ahmar Society Indonesia (HASI), which has been operating in many conflict areas, including Syria; HASI has also been identified as a JI charity. Bambang was HASI’s spokesperson as of October 2013 and was also identified as HASI’s secretary general in September 2012. With the death of Dr. Sunardi and the arrest of Dipo, the next generation of JI will likely look to a senior figure such as Bambang for leadership.

Ibnu Thoyyib (alias Abu Fatih) was born in Pacitan and once held a position as JI’s Mantiqi II leader, in charge of Java and Sumatra. Ibnu Thoyyib is the older brother of Ibrahim Thoyyib (alias Abu Husna), who was the JI leader in 2008, and an in-law of Para Wijayanto.

With individuals such as Para Wijayanto and Abu Rusydan now behind bars, JI members will likely look to these individuals, who have the capacity to advise the organization, albeit in an unofficial role.

Conclusion

The investigations surrounding Askary’s arrest provide an insight into how extensive the Jemaah Islamiyah network has grown and the ambitions the group retains despite its current period of dormancy. An added factor also was that Askary had overseas combat experience and that provided added value for the group. He would be able to share this experience and skills with other like-minded members of the group.

A lesson that counterterrorism officials should take from Askary’s overseas stint is that terror returnees from any conflict zone should not be treated lightly. During their time abroad, they can be expected to have amassed a great amount of knowledge and combat experience. The networks forged with overseas groups would also be significant and these individuals would be the go-to people to establish links with other international terror groups should they seek a safe haven from their countries of origin. In the case of JI, it was reported that the group had spent 2.4 billion rupiah ($166,000) to send members to Syria to undergo military training from 2013 to 2018.

Clearly, the JI and its succeeding generation of jihadists and fighters remain relevant. The arrest of key JI leaders, including Para Wijayanto and his son, indicates that JI continues to be a persistent threat. Nonetheless, despite prioritizing the IS threat over JI for a while, Indonesia has refocused its operations on neutering the JI threat. These efforts are reinforced by the decades of experience gained in dealing with the JI. Therefore, the authorities must redeploy personnel experienced in combating the JI tactics and narratives to address the growing threat that it poses.

[Rakyan Adibrata is the Country Director of the International Association for Counter-Terrorism and Security Professionals (IACSP), Indonesia.]

[Jasminder Singh is a senior analyst with the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR), a constituent unit of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University.]

https://thediplomat.com/2023/02/237678/

Philippines, U.S. to hold biggest war games in years

 From Reuters (Feb 15, 2023): Philippines, U.S. to hold biggest war games in years

Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner speaks during a meeting with the media, at the Philippine Army headquarters, in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines, February 15, 2023. REUTERS/Lisa Marie David

MANILA, Feb 15 (Reuters) - The Philippines and the United States will this year carry out their biggest joint military drills since 2015, Manila's army chief said on Wednesday, against a backdrop of growing tensions with China in the South China Sea.

The exercises underscore improved ties with the United States under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and come as the Philippines condemns China's "aggressive" actions in the disputed waterway, including its use of a "military-grade laser" against one of Manila's vessels earlier this month.

The annual 'Balikatan' exercises will be conducted in the second quarter and involve more than the previous year's 8,900 troops, army chief Romeo Brawner told reporters.

"All of these exercises that we are doing are in response to all types of threats that we may be facing in the future, both man-made and natural," Brawner said.

President Marcos on Tuesday summoned China's ambassador to express "serious concern" over the intensity and frequency of China's activities in the South China Sea, most of which China claims as its territory.

China's use of a laser against a Philippine vessel on Feb. 6, which its foreign ministry insists was legal, has sparked expressions of concerns and support from Australia, Japan, and the United States.

Washington "will redouble its efforts with our Philippine ally" to bolster the Philippine military and coast guard's defence capabilities "as we work shoulder-to-shoulder to uphold the rules-based international order," Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said on Twitter.
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The Philippines has granted Washington greater access to its military bases as part of the latter's efforts to deter China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea and tension over self-ruled Taiwan.

In 2015, more than 11,000 troops from both countries participated in the joint military exercises.

"The exercises will involve a myriad of activities, not just focused on developing the war fighting capability of both armed forces, but also of the other non-traditional roles such as humanitarian assistance and disaster response," Brawner said.

https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-us-hold-biggest-war-games-years-2023-02-15/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Karapatan ng dinakip ng PNP sa Cagayan, dapat kilalanin

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 15, 2023): Karapatan ng dinakip ng PNP sa Cagayan, dapat kilalanin (Rights of those arrested by the PNP in Cagayan, must be recognized)

 

February 15, 2023

Nanawagan ang mga grupong tagapagtaguyod sa karapatang-tao na igalang ang karapatan ng isang dating estudyante ng De La Salle University (DLSU) na ayon sa ulat ng pulis ay nadakip sa isang labanan sa Baggao, Cagayan noong Pebrero 13 ng hapon.

Ayon sa grupong Karapatan-Cagayan Valley (CV), dapat igalang ng 5th ID at mga pulis ang karapatan ni Orion Yoshida—kombatant man siya o sibilyan—alinsunod sa Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) at International Humanitarian Law. Si Yoshida ay nagtapos ng kursong AB Political Science sa DLSU.

Ayon sa mga ulat, sumiklab ang labanan sa pagitan ng Armed Forces Philippines at Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa Sityo Nangbaggayan, Barangay Sta. Margarita, Baggao, Cagayan noong Pebrero 13 ng hapon.

Iginiit ng Karapatan na dapat agarang bigyan ng medikal na atensyon at igalaang ang kanyang karapatan na malayang mabisita at makausap ng pamilya at piniling abugado. Dapat ding tiyakin na ligtas siya sa anumang banta ng harasment, tortyur (sikolohikal at pisikal), at intimidasyon.

Si Yoshida ay kasakuluyang nasa kustodiya ng AFP sa Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz Station Hospital sa Gamu, Isabela.

Nanawagan rin ang Karapatan-CV at ang pamilya sa Commission on Human Rights at International Committee of the Red Cross na agad puntahan at alamin ang kasalukuyang kalagayan ni Yoshida sa poder ng militar. “Marami nang insidente ng paglabag sa karapatang pantao ang 5th Infantry Division sa mga sugatan, wala nang kakayahang lumaban, at mga sibilyan sa mga probinsya ng Cagayan Valley,” diin ng grupo.

Nananawagan ang grupo na alamin ang kalagayan ng mga residente ng apektadong komunidad. Sa paunang ulat, umabot sa 68 pamilya ang nagbakwit sa daycare center ng Barangay Sta. Margarita. Mayroon ding mga ulat ng mga nasirang pananim sa bahaging nilapagan ng helicopter ng militar.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/karapatan-ng-dinakip-ng-pnp-sa-cagayan-dapat-kilalanin/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pagbabalik ng harapang klase sa UP, sinalubong ng protesta

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 15, 2023): Pagbabalik ng harapang klase sa UP, sinalubong ng protesta (Return of face-to-face classes in UP, met with protest)

February 15, 2023

Ang muling pagbabalik sa harapang porma ng klase sa mga kampus ng University of the Philippines (UP) sa buong bansa ay sinalubong ng mga kilos-protesta ng mga iskolar ng bayan noong Pebrero 13. Binansagan nila itong ‘First Day Fight.’ Binuksan na ang mga kampus para sa harapang klase matapos ang ilang taong pagkakasara dulot ng pandemyang Covid-19.

Sa UP Diliman, nagmartsa ang mga iskolar ng bayan sa kampus sa pangunguna ng University Student Council (USC)-UP Diliman at mga progresibong organisasyong pangkampus. Ipinanawagan nila ang pagtataguyod ng libre, dekalidad, at pangmasang edukasyon para sa lahat. Liban dito, nagkaisa ang mga estudyante sa pagtataguyod ng kalayaang akademiko sa harap ng bantang panghihimasok ng mga armadong pwersa ng estado sa mga kampus ng UP.

Ipinabatid din ng mga grupo ng kabataan ang pagtutol sa mapanupil at pasistang pakanang ROTC o Reserve Officers’ Training Corps ng rehimeng Marcos. Nagsalita sa programa ang bagong luklok na presidente ng UP na si Atty. Angelo Jimenez.

Sa pahayag ni Latrell Felix, chairperson ng konseho ng mag-aaral, hinamon niya ang pamunuan ng UP na pahigpitin ang pakikipagkaisa sa komunidad nito para sa paglaban sa anumang banta sa kanilang mga demokratikong karapatan mula sa armadong pwersa ng rehimeng Marcos. Kabilang dito ang pagtatanggol sa kalayaang pang-akademiko, pagtitiyak ng tunay na representasyon ng mga mag-aaral at pagbibigay ng batayang serbisyo.

Sa UP Los Baños, nagprotesta ang mga estudyante at organisasyon sa Carabao Park sa loob ng kampus. Nagkaisa sila para sa panawagang dagdag-badyet sa unibersidad at pagtugon ng pamantasan sa kakulangan ng mga klase at pasilidad sa kampus. Matapos ang programa dito, nagmartsa ang ilampung iskolar ng bayan tungong UPLB Freedom Park.

Nagsalita sa programa sa Freedom Park si Siegfred Severino, rehente ng mga mag-aaral ng UP. Ang naturang protesta rin ang nagbukas sa inilulunsad na UP Los Baños February Fair na nagtatampok ng iba’t ibang isyung panlipunan.

Naglunsad din ng mga protesta ang mga kabataan at progresibong organisasyon sa UP Cebu, UP Manila, at UP Mindanao sa parehong araw. Binatikos ng mga kabataan sa mga protestang ito ang panunupil ng estado at walang tigil na red-tagging sa mga progresibo at ang mga neoliberal na patakaran sa edukasyon na nagpapahirap sa mga kabataan.

Nauna nang nagsagawa ng First Day Fight ang mga estudyante ng UP Baguio noong Pebrero 7 nang buksan ang klase sa kanilang kampus.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/pagbabalik-ng-harapang-klase-sa-up-sinalubong-ng-protesta/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Durog ang puso ng mga guro sa pagpapabaya ng DepEd

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 15, 2023): Durog ang puso ng mga guro sa pagpapabaya ng DepEd (The teachers are heartbroken by DepEd's negligence)

 

February 15, 2023

Naglunsad ng protesta ang mga guro sa pangunguna ng kanilang unyon na Alliance of Concerned Teachers-National Capital Region (ACT-NCR) sa pambansang upisina ng Department of Education (DepEd) sa Pasig City kahapon, araw ng mga puso, para ipabatid kung gaanong kadurog ang kanilang puso sa pagbabaya ng ahensya sa kanilang kalagayan.

Hiling ng mga guro sa ahensya na dinggin ang kanilang mga panawagan para sa dagdag na sweldo, mga benepisyo tulad ng Performance Based Bonus para sa 2021 at Overtime Pay para sa nagdaang mga akademikong taon. Liban dito, giit nila ang pagbabawas ng mga trabaho sa pagtuturo at non-teaching na tungkulin ng mga guro sa eskwelahan.

Ayon sa ACT-NCR, ito ang “lagay ng kanilang mga puso” at kagyat nilang hiling ang “makabuluhan at mabilis” na aksyon ni DepEd Secretary VP Sara Duterte. “Tumaas ang presyo ng tinapay kahapon, mayroong inaasahang pagtaas ng pasahe sa LRT, at hindi magawang kontrolin ng gubyerno ang sumisirit na implasyon. Ang kailangan namin ay makabuluhang dagdag sweldo,” pahayag ni ACT NCR Union President Ruby Bernado.

Nagdala ng malalaking plakard na hugis puso ang mga guro sa kanilang protesta. Ipinakita ng mga plakard na ito ang “broken heart” dahil sa nakalulungkot na kalagayan ng sektor. Nagbuo rin sila ng malalaking karakter na hugis “SG15” gamit ang mga bulaklak na kanilang natanggap mula sa kani-kanilang mga estudyante bilang regalo sa araw ng mga puso. Simbolo ito ng panawagan nilang itaas sa Salary Grade 15 na entry-level na sweldo para sa mga bagong guro, mula sa kasalukuyang Salary Grade 11.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/durog-ang-puso-ng-mga-guro-sa-pagpapabaya-ng-deped/

CPP/NDF-KAGUMA: KAGUMA condemns unjust arrest of UP Diliman professor, calls for pushback against intensifying fascist attacks

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 13, 2023): KAGUMA condemns unjust arrest of UP Diliman professor, calls for pushback against intensifying fascist attacks

 


Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (Kaguma)

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 15, 2023

The Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (KAGUMA) condemns the unjust arrest of Melania Flores, a professor at the University of the Philippines (UP) Departamento ng Filipino at Panitikan ng Pilipinas and former national president of the All-UP Academic Employees Union. Flores was accosted by Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (CIDU) of the Quezon City Police Department (QCPD) last February 6, 2023, Monday late morning, in her own residence inside the premises of the UP Diliman campus in Quezon City.

KAGUMA condemns the concerted campaign of repression orchestrated against Flores, who was charged with “violating the Social Security Law” for allegedly failing to remit social security contributions to her former house helper. We find it to be the height of absurdity for the Social Security System (SSS) on its own initiative to go out of its way to file a court case against Flores while billions worth of non-remittances by labor-violating companies are left unchecked.

The PNP agents entered the campus without coordinating with the UP administration, violating the UP-DILG Accord that prohibits state forces from entering the UP campus without permission from university authorities. The PNP agents even used a ruse, pretending to be DSWD personnel in civilian clothing, to effect the arrest. All the while, Flores had not even received any subpoena or notices since the court order was issued last September 6, 2022.

The NTF-ELCAC has since joined the chorus to discredit and besmirch the name of Flores proving without any doubt the political motivation behind the absurd charges against Flores. It is clear that the brazen trampling of due process and the rights of Prof. Flores is but the latest fascist attack by state forces, in order to harass and intimidate progressive teachers and unionists.

KAGUMA calls on the academic community and the Filipino people to pushback against intensifying fascist attacks on academic freedom and people’s rights. Ultimately, the fascists wish to make an example of the unjust arrest of Flores as a warning that they can with impunity carry out vicious attacks against activists, progressives, and other dissenters.

The fascists intend to terrorize and paralyze patriotic and progressive educators and academic workers to stop them from exposing and teaching on the real oppressed conditions of Philippine society and from linking arms with the wider movement and struggles of workers and peasants across the country.

What these fascists fail to understand is that their machinations are bound to fail as repression pushes more and more people to resist and fight back against tyranny and oppression. State terrorism and fascism, also reminds people of the class character of the big comprador-landlord state and teaches them a lesson on the necessity of revolutionary collective action.

Defeat the fascist attacks of the US-Marcos regime!
Makibaka, Huwag Matakot!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/kaguma-condemns-unjust-arrest-of-up-diliman-professor-calls-for-pushback-against-intensifying-fascist-attacks/

Kalinaw News: LOOK: Two members of Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley were killed in a series of encounters

From Kalinaw News Facebook Page (Feb 15. 2023): LOOK: Two members of Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley were killed in a series of encounters

LOOK: Two members of Komiteng Probinsya Cagayan, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley were killed in a series of encounters with the troops of the Army’s 17th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Santa Margarita, Baggao, Cagayan on Monday, February 13.

The slain NPA combatants in the said encounters are yet to be identified. Recovered from the encounter site were one M4 Colt Commando Rifle, one Bushmaster Rifle, three pistols, six improvised explosive devices, one rifle grenade, M203 and RPG ammunitions, twelve M14 magazines, sixteen M16 magazines, five bandoliers, one Baofeng radio, one laptop, numerous cellphones, subversive documents, and other personal possessions of the armed group.

17th Infantry Battalion, PA
5ID Startroopers, Philippine Army
#KapayapaanParaSaLahat
#PhilArmy
#ARMY125

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/photos/pcb.2185253011682706/2185252948349379/

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/

Kalinaw News: Salute to fallen hero

 From Kalinaw News Facebook Page (Feb 15. 2023): Salute to fallen hero

A valiant officer from the 9th Infantry “Spear” Division, 2LT NICO A MALCAMPO, gave true meaning to heroism and patriotism by fulfilling his avowed mandate up to his last dying breath fighting for peace.

He paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting the people of Barangay Ramay, Oas, Albay against the atrocities of the New People's Army.

We render our snappy salute for your faithful service to the nation. May your soul rest in peace in the bosom of our Almighty Father.

#KapayapaanParaSaLahat
#PhilArmy

#ARMY125

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/photos/a.449700745237950/2185279141680093/

https://www.facebook.com/kalinawnews/

Kalinaw News: 25 FRs in Himamaylan receive cash aid through City Task Force-ELCAC

From Kalinaw News (Feb 15. 2023): 25 FRs in Himamaylan receive cash aid through City Task Force-ELCAC

CAMP GERONA, Murcia, Negros Occidental – A total of Twenty-Five (25) former rebels received P10,000.00 pesos each of financial assistance from the City Task Force ELCAC, CSWDO and LGU of Himamaylan City in a simple ceremony held at the City Hall of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on February 14, 2023.

The implementation of the Assistance to Individual in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of DSWD, through the LGU of Himamaylan City intends to provide immediate support to the families affected by the local armed conflict who are displaced from their homes. Through this intervention, the former rebels received P10,000 each as capital in starting a small business to sustain their daily needs while their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits are being processed. Through its Social Welfare and Development Office, the Himamaylan City government and the City TF-ELCAC also distributed hygiene kits, family kits, and sleeping and kitchen kits to 25 FRs.

Himamaylan City Mayor Hon. Rogelio Tongson Jr graced the distribution of aid to FRs.

Members of the City Council, Mr. Wendell John Vallejera Executive Assistant, 303rd Brigade Commander Colonel Edgardo Edralin, 94IB Commanding Officer Lt. Colonel Van Donald Almonte, Himamaylan City Deputy Chief of Police Major Randy Babor, Social Welfare and Development Officer Mrs. Ever Grace T Castro, and Mr Raymund Titong, Anchor Man of 100.5 CPSU Radyo Mascovado Sweet FM were also present during the activity.

In his message, Colonel Edralin lauded the unwavering support of the 94IB to former rebels and congratulated the former rebels for making the right decision in returning to the folds of the law. He stressed that they were just victims of the propaganda lies and deceptive recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army- National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

“The financial assistance extended by the local government unit and the City TF-ELCAC is solid proof that the Himamaylan LGU is sincere in its commitment to allow former rebels to start anew, reintegrate with the community, be able to live normal lives again and be united with their families and love ones. I also urge the former FRs to help us convince the remaining NPAs to return to the law’s folds and be with their families. The awarding of this financial and additional assistance is just one of the many future endeavours of the local government, and I thank the Himamaylan LGU for supporting the whole-of-nation approach to reduce and eradicate the insurgency in Central Negros. The Army strongly supports this initiative, and we welcome those who want to lay down their arms,” Colonel Edralin said.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/25-frs-in-himamaylan-receive-cash-aid-through-city-task-force-elcac/

China downplays envoy’s summoning over laser incident in West PH Sea

From Rappler (Feb 15, 2023): China downplays envoy’s summoning over laser incident in West PH Sea (By SOFIA TOMACRUZ)

The Chinese embassy says Ambassador Huang Xilian 'met' with President Marcos on how to implement the 'consensus reached' during Marcos' bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping in January, and related issues

MANILA, Philippines – China has downplayed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to summon Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian after the China Coast Guard (CCG) deployed a military-grade laser against the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the West Philippine Sea.

In a statement to media on Tuesday, February 14, China referred to Huang’s summoning as a mere meeting with Marcos.

“On February 14, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” the embassy said.

It was the first time for Marcos to summon a foreign envoy since he assumed office on June 30, 2022. The move marked one of the highest levels of protest against a foreign government.

It was also the third time Huang was summoned by the Philippine government since he assumed his post in Manila in December 2019, with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) calling him to its headquarters twice, again over incidents related to the West Philippine Sea.

The Chinese embassy said Marcos and Huang discussed how to implement “consensus reached” by Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their bilateral meeting in Beijing, as well as ways to strengthen dialogue and “properly manage maritime differences between China and the Philippines.”

Also present in Malacañang when Huang was summoned were Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

The laser incident happened just over a month after Marcos’ state visit to China.

In filing a protest on Tuesday, the DFA pointed out that Marcos and Xi had agreed that the maritime dispute should be handled “through diplomacy and dialogue, without resorting to force and intimidation.”

The DFA, in its strongly-worded protest, had called China’s recent actions as “acts of aggression.”

The CCG’s harassment of the BRP Malapascua near Ayungin Shoal was also “disturbing and disappointing,” following Marcos state visit to China in January, the DFA added.

The February 6 laser incident caused “temporary blindness” to the BRP Malapascua’s crew at her bridge and had been accompanied by unsafe maneuvers against the PCG ship.

The PCG earlier said it was the second time China used a laser against its ships, with the first taking place in June 2022 against the BRP Habagat tugboat.

The CCG’s harassment of the BRP Malapascua has also fueled international backlash, with the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, and Germany calling on Beijing to abide by the 2016 Hague Ruling that struck down China’s expansive nine-dash-line in the South China Sea as illegal.

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Manila has filed at least 75 diplomatic protests against Beijing under the Marcos government.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/china-statement-marcos-jr-summoning-ambassador-laser-incident-west-philippine-sea-february-2023/

China laser incident vs PH fuels international support for 2016 Hague ruling

From Rappler (Feb 15, 2023): China laser incident vs PH fuels international support for 2016 Hague ruling (By SOFIA TOMACRUZ)

Strengthening international support for the Philippines' landmark arbitral award is crucial in efforts to enforce the award

MANILA, Philippines – China’s recent use of a military-grade laser against a Philippine Coast Guard vessel in the West Philippine Sea has prompted foreign governments to renew calls for Beijing to comply with the 2016 landmark arbitral award.

The United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Denmark were among countries which expressed serious concern over China’s “dangerous” and “provocative” actions, the latest of which saw a China Coast Guard ship aim a military-grade laser at the BRP Malapascua.

China’s actions caused “temporary blindness” lasting some 10 to 15 seconds among crew at the BRP Malapascua, and had been accompanied by unsafe maneuvers by the CCG ship, the PCG said.

Foreign governments condemned this, calling China’s actions “intimidatory.” The Philippines, filing a protest, called Beijing’s moves as “acts of aggression.”

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Countries that have spoken out on the issue raised the 2016 Hague ruling filed and won by the Philippines and called on China to comply with the “final and legally binding” award.

“As a party to UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), the PRC (Peoples’ Republic of China must comply with its obligations, including notable, the 2-16 SCS (South China Sea) arbitration decision,” Canada said.

The Hague ruling asserted Manila’s rights in waters in the West Philippine Sea and ruled that China’s expansive nine-dash-line had no legal basis.

Despite this, China has continued to ignore the ruling, which had “no effect” on its assertive claims in the disputed waterway.
What countries are saying

Reacting to the incident, the US backed the Philippines and reiterated that its commitments under the Mutual Defense Treaty covered any attack on Philippine vessels, including PCG ships, in South China Sea.

Japan called on China to respect International law and expressed its opposition to actions that increased tensions in the volatile waterway.

Canada expressed “firm and unwavering” support for the Philippines and called out China’s “coercive” actions.

Germany and the United Kingdom expressed their commitment to UNCLOS and both asserted the finality of the 2016 arbitral award.

Denmark also expressed support for the Philippines, saying “all steps toward militarization of disputes is a threat to regional peace and security.”

Enforcing the ruling

Renewed support for the Philippines’ landmark legal victory is crucial in efforts to enforce the arbitral award.

Experts have often called on countries in both Southeast Asia and other parts of the world to support the Hague ruling, saying international pressure on China to abide by the award was one way of preserving international law in the disputed waters.

Bolstering international support for the award was also essential for the Philippines, after former president Rodrigo Duterte downplayed the ruling during his six-year term in favor of fostering warm ties with China.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier vowed to uphold the ruling and had declared that his government will not give up “even a single square inch of Philippine territory” to any foreign power. –

https://www.rappler.com/nation/china-laser-incident-vs-philippines-international-support-2016-hague-ruling-west-philippine-sea/

Classes suspended in all levels in Cotabato town following shooting of school children

Posted to MindaNews (Feb 15, 2023): Classes suspended in all levels in Cotabato town following shooting of school children (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 15 Feb)—Mayor Sumulong K. Sultan of the municipality of Pikit in Cotabato province has suspended classes in all levels in the area following a shooting incident on Wednesday that victimized school children.

Municipality of Pikit, Cotabato Province. Map courtesy of Google

Col. Harold Ramos, provincial police director of Cotabato, said it appears that four gunmen using high-powered firearms were involved in the shooting.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, meanwhile, called for an investigation into the spate of killings in Pikit, worried that some quarters wanted it to appear that there is a feud between Christians and Muslims in the municipality.

Reports circulating on social media said Fahad Dianalan Guintawan, a 13-year-old Grade 7 student of Pikit National High School and a resident of Sitio Tambak Barangay Gli-gli, was killed in a shooting incident around 2 p.m. Two of his companions were reportedly wounded—one was identified only as Jinwar, aged 12; and the other a still unidentified 11-year-old.

The municipal police station, however, mentioned nothing about the killing of a student in its Facebook post titled “Stop the killing” late afternoon Tuesday. The police post only said it “strongly condemn[ed] the shooting incident” at Barangay Gli-Gli in Pikit that victimized two minor students, one suffering fatal injury, and the other non-fatal.

The students were residents of Barangay Macabual in Pikit, police said.

Mayor Sultan, in his post Tuesday evening, said the cancellation of classes will be from Wednesday until Friday in all levels in the elementary, high school and college.

“Bunga ito ng ilang insidenteng naglagay sa panganib sa buhay ng mga inosente at ilang kabataang estudyante (This is due to the incident that endangered the lives of innocent and young students),” he said.

In Sultan’s Executive Order No. 3, series of 2023, the mayor noted the “series of shooting and killing incidents that transpired this month of February, involving innocent civilians and students, which can be construed as retaliation of unknown culprits that resulted in uncertainties to both Muslims and Christians that might be victimized by these senseless killings.”

The municipal police also published another “stop the killing” post hours earlier, involving Jose Neri Gonzales, in another “shooting incident that transpired at Brgy. Inug-ug.”

Ramos told MindaNews over mobile phone Wednesday night that they are still interviewing the wounded students and their relatives.

He said one of the victims was still in the hospital.

Ramos said they are strengthening some more their “Oplan Kapkap Bakal Sita,” which is checking on suspicious characters if they carry firearms. He said that in areas they deem to be critical, they are deploying troops to set up additional checkpoints to prevent similar incidents.

The night before the shooting incident, heavy gun fires could be heard in the downtown area due to clashes near the villages of Calawag and Balong. A day before the incident, a security guard was killed.

Ebrahim, in a press conference Wednesday, said they have already composed a task force to investigate the killings in Pikit.

“It appears that some people want to make this appear as between Muslims and Christians,” he said. “We don’t want this because this was what happened in the 1960s,” Ebrahim added.

Incidents of killings in Pikit peaked before the election last year.

During peace building summits, it was found out that several layers of conflicts were monitored in the said town, including rido (clan war) of rival clans, armed groups and local political rivalry.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has given instruction to security sectors to give importance to the peace and stability in Pikit and the other Special Geographic Areas in the BARMM.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/classes-suspended-in-all-levels-in-cotabato-town-following-shooting-of-school-children/

Marcos summons Chinese envoy over 'military-grade laser' incident

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14, 2023): Marcos summons Chinese envoy over 'military-grade laser' incident (By Azer Parrocha)

DIALOGUE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. receives Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian (left) at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday (Feb. 14, 2023). Marcos summoned the Chinese envoy over the latest reported harassment of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel of its Philippine counterpart at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Feb. 6. (Courtesy of PCO)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian in Malacañang on Tuesday and discussed the reported harassment made by a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) ship toward a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel in the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Feb. 6.

In a press statement on Tuesday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos raised his “serious concern” over China’s dangerous activity.

“The President summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian this afternoon to express his serious concern over the increasing frequency and intensity of actions by China against the Philippine Coast Guard and our Filipino fishermen in their bancas, the latest of which was the deployment of a military-grade laser against our Coast Guard vessels,” the PCO said.

In a separate statement, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said Marcos and Huang "exchanged views on how to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen dialogue and communication, and properly manage maritime differences between China and the Philippines."

Defense officer-in-charge Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra and Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo were also at the meeting.

Earlier in the day, the Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) filed its eighth diplomatic protest this year before the Chinese Embassy in Manila, calling on Beijing to “cease and desist” its aggressive activities against Philippine vessels.

The diplomatic note “condemned the shadowing, harassment, dangerous maneuvers, directing of military-grade laser, and illegal radio challenges” by CCG vessel 5205 against the PCG vessel, BRP Malapascua.

The DFA asserted that the CCG’s actions constituted a threat to Philippine sovereignty and security as a state, and are infringements of its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

DFA spokesperson, Ma. Teresita Daza, said the “acts of aggression” are both “disturbing and disappointing” as it closely follows the January bilateral summit between Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping, with the two leaders agreeing to manage maritime differences through diplomacy and dialogue.

During Marcos' state visit to China, he and Xi agreed to establish a “direct communications line” on concerns related to the South China Sea in the West Philippine Sea to prevent any miscommunication between the two countries.

However, he said this hotline should not stop them from filing protests or sending notes verbales.

In another statement, Ned Price, US State Department spokesperson, said the “provocative and unsafe” use of military-grade laser light interfered with the Philippines’ lawful operations in and around Ayungin Shoal.

On Monday, China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin defended China’s action, saying the PCG vessel "intruded” into the waters “without Chinese permission."

Ayungin Shoal is part of the Kalayaan Island Group, which is an integral part of the Philippines, as well as its EEZ and continental shelf, and over which the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction.

It is located about 105 nautical miles off Palawan, Philippines, well within the country's 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195226