From the Sun Star-Davao (Dec 11): Army: Relief goods reach isolated areas
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines has delivered relief goods by air to three remote areas that have since last week not been penetrated by relief operations. The initial batch of goods from the Inter-Agency Relief Operations Center were delivered to Barangay Andap in New Bataan and Diwalwal on Mt. Diwata in Monkayo, both in Compostela Valley, and Barangay Pichon in Caraga, Davao Oriental. "The local government and the ground troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines have given us information on communities that are deemed isolated or in distress. Once our helicopters located these areas, we immediately provide relief goods para pantawid gutom," said Tactical Operations Group-Davao chief Colonel Randy Tibayan in a press conference at the relief operation center set up at the Department of Public Works and Highways office in Panacan, Davao City.
Tibayan said they have reached isolated areas in Barangay Andap, which is among the hardest hit villages in Compostela Valley province. "At around 6 a.m., two helicopters were already performing relief operations para madalhan kaagad ang mga biktima ng pagkain dahil wala silang means na makalabas sa area. A total of 120 sacks of relief goods were already distributed to typhoon victims," Tibayan said. He said they are still trying to enter an isolated area on Mt. Diwalwal in Monkayo, Compostela Valley. "Ito ang area na pinipilit naming pasukin tuwing umaga. For the past few days, we have been sending relief operations in the area since impassable ang daan nila pababa," said Tibayan.
Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Jorge Segovia said in separate interview at the 10th Infantry Division Civil Military Operations Battalion headquarters at Camp Felix Apolinario that they have also located an isolated area in Barangay Pichon in Caraga, Davao Oriental. "This area was occupied by lumads. They were told to evacuate but they refused. So instead, we gave them relief goods," he said.
As of Tuesday morning, updates from the Office of Civil Defense-Davao showed there are a total of 850 dead, 1,792 injured and 611 missing in Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte. Compostela Valley is the hardest hit with 514 dead, 401 injured and 499 missing, while the death toll in Davao Oriental has hit 336 with 1,390 injured and 111 missing.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2012/12/11/army-relief-goods-reach-isolated-areas-257884
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Gov’t troops to secure vital installations in Leyte
From the Leyte Samar Daily Express (Dec 12): Gov’t troops to secure vital installations in Leyte
Government troops will ensure that vital installations in the province of Leyte will be secured to ensure safety of its personnel and continue providing its services to the people, just like the geothermal plant located in the town of Kananga and the city of Ormoc. Captain Dranreb Canto, 802nd Infantry Brigade public information officer ,assured this after a series of rebel attacks that hit the province of Leyte last week that claimed the lives of several military personnel.
Two separate attacks were initiated by rebel groups in the towns of Jaro and Albuera just this month. These towns are known to be areas under influence of red groups. The attacks caused the death of four government troops and wounding a civilian. About 10 lawless armed elements harassed the base of Alpha Company of 78th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Antipolo, Albuera town, at around 7:50 p.m. of December 6, wounding Edgar Borinaga, a resident of the said barangay.
In a separate incident, some 10 NPAs attacked troops who were providing security to members of a Bayanihan Team of 19th Infantry Battalion conducting peace and development activities in Barangay Rubas, Jaro town at around 8 p.m. resulting to the death of two soldiers and wounding of three others. Last November 30, one soldier was killed and two others were wounded when elements of the 78th Infantry Battalion were ambushed by more or less 10 NPAs at Sitio Calingatnan, Barangay San Pedro, Albuera, Leyte.
“We (military) are considering all vital installation as soft target of attacks,” Canto said.
A troop under the 802nd IB is stationed inside the geothermal complex, according to Canto, to ensure the safety of its personnel and all its structures considering that the geothermal plant supplies electricity not just in the province of Leyte but for the entire region and its neighboring regions to include Luzon.
Aside from the AFP, the Philippine National Police also has troops stationed inside the geothermal complex. Although several attacks were already made by rebel groups in some areas in the province of Leyte, the military have not yet monitored any possible attacks that would be made by red groups in the vital installation under the territorial jurisdiction of Leyte. “We haven’t monitored or receive information that they will attack our vital installations but we will not lay down our guard,” Canto stressed.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2012/12/govt-troops-to-secure-vital-installations-in-leyte/
Government troops will ensure that vital installations in the province of Leyte will be secured to ensure safety of its personnel and continue providing its services to the people, just like the geothermal plant located in the town of Kananga and the city of Ormoc. Captain Dranreb Canto, 802nd Infantry Brigade public information officer ,assured this after a series of rebel attacks that hit the province of Leyte last week that claimed the lives of several military personnel.
Two separate attacks were initiated by rebel groups in the towns of Jaro and Albuera just this month. These towns are known to be areas under influence of red groups. The attacks caused the death of four government troops and wounding a civilian. About 10 lawless armed elements harassed the base of Alpha Company of 78th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Antipolo, Albuera town, at around 7:50 p.m. of December 6, wounding Edgar Borinaga, a resident of the said barangay.
In a separate incident, some 10 NPAs attacked troops who were providing security to members of a Bayanihan Team of 19th Infantry Battalion conducting peace and development activities in Barangay Rubas, Jaro town at around 8 p.m. resulting to the death of two soldiers and wounding of three others. Last November 30, one soldier was killed and two others were wounded when elements of the 78th Infantry Battalion were ambushed by more or less 10 NPAs at Sitio Calingatnan, Barangay San Pedro, Albuera, Leyte.
“We (military) are considering all vital installation as soft target of attacks,” Canto said.
A troop under the 802nd IB is stationed inside the geothermal complex, according to Canto, to ensure the safety of its personnel and all its structures considering that the geothermal plant supplies electricity not just in the province of Leyte but for the entire region and its neighboring regions to include Luzon.
Aside from the AFP, the Philippine National Police also has troops stationed inside the geothermal complex. Although several attacks were already made by rebel groups in some areas in the province of Leyte, the military have not yet monitored any possible attacks that would be made by red groups in the vital installation under the territorial jurisdiction of Leyte. “We haven’t monitored or receive information that they will attack our vital installations but we will not lay down our guard,” Canto stressed.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2012/12/govt-troops-to-secure-vital-installations-in-leyte/
CPP/NPA: NPA metes blows on 57th IB
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: NPA metes blows on 57th IB
A soldier from the 57th IB was killed and an undetermined number wounded in a firefight with Red fighters of the Herminio Alfonso Operations Command (HAC) at 11:40 a.m. on December 3 in Mt. Makaindos, Barangay Amabel, Magpet, North Cotabato. The soldiers retreated after an hour-long battle, leaving behind their casualties and medical supplies.
Earlier, at around 9:30 a.m. on November 26, the HAC had also figured in a gunbattle with the 10th Special Forces Company (SFC). Three soldiers were killed and six wounded, contrary to AFP reports that there were no casualties on either side. The 57th IB and 10th SFC have been intensifying their abuses as part of their operations to pave the way for the entry of the Hitocho Group of Companies, Dole Philippines’ new investors.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-metes-blows-on-57th-ib
A soldier from the 57th IB was killed and an undetermined number wounded in a firefight with Red fighters of the Herminio Alfonso Operations Command (HAC) at 11:40 a.m. on December 3 in Mt. Makaindos, Barangay Amabel, Magpet, North Cotabato. The soldiers retreated after an hour-long battle, leaving behind their casualties and medical supplies.
Earlier, at around 9:30 a.m. on November 26, the HAC had also figured in a gunbattle with the 10th Special Forces Company (SFC). Three soldiers were killed and six wounded, contrary to AFP reports that there were no casualties on either side. The 57th IB and 10th SFC have been intensifying their abuses as part of their operations to pave the way for the entry of the Hitocho Group of Companies, Dole Philippines’ new investors.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-metes-blows-on-57th-ib
CPP/NPA: NPA military actions in Kalinga
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: NPA military actions in Kalinga
Two soldiers under the 21st IB were killed in a gunbattle with Red fighters of the New People’s Army under the Lejo Cawilan Command (LCC-NPA) in Sitio Inumbog, Bagtayan, Pasil in Kalinga province on November 30. LCC-NPA spokesperson Ka Tipon Gil-ayab said two columns of the 21st IB were conducting patrols when they encountered the Red fighters at around 9 a.m. Two fascist military troops were killed on the spot. Meanwhile, the NPA was able to make a quick retreat without suffering any casualties......
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-military-actions-in-kalinga
Two soldiers under the 21st IB were killed in a gunbattle with Red fighters of the New People’s Army under the Lejo Cawilan Command (LCC-NPA) in Sitio Inumbog, Bagtayan, Pasil in Kalinga province on November 30. LCC-NPA spokesperson Ka Tipon Gil-ayab said two columns of the 21st IB were conducting patrols when they encountered the Red fighters at around 9 a.m. Two fascist military troops were killed on the spot. Meanwhile, the NPA was able to make a quick retreat without suffering any casualties......
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-military-actions-in-kalinga
CPP/NPA: NPA punishes 78th IB in Leyte
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: NPA punishes 78th IB in Leyte
Red fighters of the Mt. Amandewin Command meted punishment on 78th IB troops for the latter’s grave human rights violations. The abusive military unit was ambushed in Sitio Calingatnan, Barangay San Pedro, Albuera, Leyte on November 30. Six soldiers were killed, and several others were wounded but the AFP only admitted in the media to suffering a single casualty. The soldiers were aboard a six-by-six truck on the way back to their camp after a military operation in Barangay Liberty, Ormoc City. In a statement, National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas spokesperson Fr. Santiago Salas said the ambush belied the AFP’s boastful claims that the NPA was finished in Leyte.....
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-punishes-78th-ib-in-leyte
Red fighters of the Mt. Amandewin Command meted punishment on 78th IB troops for the latter’s grave human rights violations. The abusive military unit was ambushed in Sitio Calingatnan, Barangay San Pedro, Albuera, Leyte on November 30. Six soldiers were killed, and several others were wounded but the AFP only admitted in the media to suffering a single casualty. The soldiers were aboard a six-by-six truck on the way back to their camp after a military operation in Barangay Liberty, Ormoc City. In a statement, National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas spokesperson Fr. Santiago Salas said the ambush belied the AFP’s boastful claims that the NPA was finished in Leyte.....
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/npa-punishes-78th-ib-in-leyte
CPP/NPA: Tactical offensives launched in Panay
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: Tactical offensives launched in Panay
Three enemy elements were killed and seven were wounded, including members of the bandit Revolutionary Proletarian Army (RPA) in tactical offensives launched by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay’s Southern Front from August to October.
The enemy suffered two killed and four wounded in an ambush by a unit under the Napoleon Tu-magtang Command (NTC-NPA) on a column of the 82nd IB Bravo Coy in Sitio Tabionan, Barangay Bucari, Leon, Iloilo on October 27, at around 7:30 a.m. In an article published in Daba-Daba, the revolutionary mass newspaper in Panay, the ambushed unit of the 82nd IB was one of four military columns scouring the forest in hopes of encountering the NPA. Two soldiers were killed in the first volley of fire. The second enemy column quickly sent reinforcements but the NPA unit had already retreated to safer ground.....
.....That afternoon, the 61st IB and 31st DRC arrived as reinforcements from central Panay. They were fired upon by another NPA unit in Barangay Danao, Leon town which is adjacent to Tabionan.
At around 7 a.m. the day after, an NPA unit harassed the 82nd IB Alpha Coy command post in Barangay Lanag, Tubungan, sending the soldiers who were then playing basketball in the plaza scampering in different directions and leaving their firearms behind. Their commanding officer who was sleeping, was surprised to wake up, seeing the detachment completely deserted.
Earlier, on September 27, an RPA element was killed and two others wounded in an ambush by NPA fighters under the NTC-NPA in Barangay Va-lentin Grasparil, Sibalom, Antique. The NPA confiscated a carbine, two short arms, ammunition, a grenade, other military equipment and documents. On August 27, a soldier from the 82nd IB was wounded in an encounter with an NPA unit in Barangay Onop, Miag-ao, Iloilo.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/tactical-offensives-launched-in-panay
Three enemy elements were killed and seven were wounded, including members of the bandit Revolutionary Proletarian Army (RPA) in tactical offensives launched by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay’s Southern Front from August to October.
The enemy suffered two killed and four wounded in an ambush by a unit under the Napoleon Tu-magtang Command (NTC-NPA) on a column of the 82nd IB Bravo Coy in Sitio Tabionan, Barangay Bucari, Leon, Iloilo on October 27, at around 7:30 a.m. In an article published in Daba-Daba, the revolutionary mass newspaper in Panay, the ambushed unit of the 82nd IB was one of four military columns scouring the forest in hopes of encountering the NPA. Two soldiers were killed in the first volley of fire. The second enemy column quickly sent reinforcements but the NPA unit had already retreated to safer ground.....
.....That afternoon, the 61st IB and 31st DRC arrived as reinforcements from central Panay. They were fired upon by another NPA unit in Barangay Danao, Leon town which is adjacent to Tabionan.
At around 7 a.m. the day after, an NPA unit harassed the 82nd IB Alpha Coy command post in Barangay Lanag, Tubungan, sending the soldiers who were then playing basketball in the plaza scampering in different directions and leaving their firearms behind. Their commanding officer who was sleeping, was surprised to wake up, seeing the detachment completely deserted.
Earlier, on September 27, an RPA element was killed and two others wounded in an ambush by NPA fighters under the NTC-NPA in Barangay Va-lentin Grasparil, Sibalom, Antique. The NPA confiscated a carbine, two short arms, ammunition, a grenade, other military equipment and documents. On August 27, a soldier from the 82nd IB was wounded in an encounter with an NPA unit in Barangay Onop, Miag-ao, Iloilo.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/tactical-offensives-launched-in-panay
CPP/NPA: Government troops ambushed in Aurora
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: Government troops ambushed in Aurora
New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas under the Domingo Erlano Command (DEC-NPA) in Aurora ambushed 48th IB troops on November 22 in Maria Aurora, Aurora province. According to DEC-NPA-Aurora spokesperson Ka Rowena Cervantes, an NPA platoon ambushed troops that had arrived in response to the burning of a dump truck and a backhoe owned by Angel Palacios Constructions. The first military truck loaded with about 20 soldiers was hit by three anti-personnel command-detonated explosives at 8:15 a.m. in Barangay Villa, Maria Aurora. The military was unable to return fire. Policemen aboard five motorcycles came to reinforce the soldiers but were met with sniper fire by the NPA blocking force in Sitio Kamatis, Barangay Villa. Eight policemen were killed on the spot. The Red fighters also blocked approaching soldiers aboard a civilian truck. After a 20-minute gunbattle, the Red fighters made a safe retreat......
According to Ka Rowena Cervantes, the tactical offensive forms part of the NPA’s continuing military campaign in Aurora and Nueva Ecija to hold the butcher 48th IB and other soldiers under the 7th Infantry Division accountable for the mounting number of victims of intimidation, assault, abductions and extrajudicial killings.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/government-troops-ambushed-in-aurora
New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas under the Domingo Erlano Command (DEC-NPA) in Aurora ambushed 48th IB troops on November 22 in Maria Aurora, Aurora province. According to DEC-NPA-Aurora spokesperson Ka Rowena Cervantes, an NPA platoon ambushed troops that had arrived in response to the burning of a dump truck and a backhoe owned by Angel Palacios Constructions. The first military truck loaded with about 20 soldiers was hit by three anti-personnel command-detonated explosives at 8:15 a.m. in Barangay Villa, Maria Aurora. The military was unable to return fire. Policemen aboard five motorcycles came to reinforce the soldiers but were met with sniper fire by the NPA blocking force in Sitio Kamatis, Barangay Villa. Eight policemen were killed on the spot. The Red fighters also blocked approaching soldiers aboard a civilian truck. After a 20-minute gunbattle, the Red fighters made a safe retreat......
According to Ka Rowena Cervantes, the tactical offensive forms part of the NPA’s continuing military campaign in Aurora and Nueva Ecija to hold the butcher 48th IB and other soldiers under the 7th Infantry Division accountable for the mounting number of victims of intimidation, assault, abductions and extrajudicial killings.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/government-troops-ambushed-in-aurora
CPP/NPA: Two ambushes in the early morning
From the December 7 edition of the CPP publication Ang Bayan: Two ambushes in the early morning
Red fighters from the Benito Tesorio and Reynaldo Piñon Commands dealt blows on the strike forces of the 5th ID in two separate ambushes in the early morning of November 27. The 51st and 52nd Division Reconnaissance Companies (DRC) are the so-called elite units of the 5th ID. Up to 13 of their troops fell in battle in two firefights that took place three hours apart in the adjacent towns of San Mariano and Echague.
In an official statement, the Benito Tesorio Command reported having seized an M60 and three K3 submachine guns, five M16 rifles, three pairs of night vision scopes, a Harris radio, a pair of binoculars, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and 15 US backpacks from the enemy in the second gunbattle in Echague.
The 51st and 52nd DRC’s tactics involve night movements and the use of night vision scopes. These two ambushes proved that despite operating under cover of darkness, the enemy could not conceal the pattern of its movements from the masses and the NPA.
At 1:30 a.m. of November 17, in Sitio Luzcon, Barangay Gangalan, San Mariano, six troopers from a platoon under the 51st DRC led by 2Lieutenant Cabanas were killed in an ambush by a platoon under the Reynaldo Piñon Command.
Meanwhile, in the early morning of November 16 in Mabbayad, Echague, Red fighters ambushed elements of the 52nd DRC conducting operations in an area that was previously the site of an NPA encampment. Seeing no one at the site, they stayed the whole day in a place full of thickets. An NPA platoon nearby learned of their presence and positioned themselves in a place where the soldiers would likely pass and waited in ambush.....
Before these two victorious ambuscades, three gunbattles took place between the NPA and the 51st DRC in Jones and San Mariano towns. Nine soldiers were killed and at least ten wounded in these firefights. Two soldiers were killed and ten wounded in a harassment operation by an NPA squad on November 8 against the 54-man 51st DRC troop in Sitio Namulan, Barangay San Jose, San Mariano. The AFP concealed this from the media, but several peasants saw two military helicopters retrieving the dead and wounded.
Meantime, four troopers from a 25-man platoon of the 51st DRC were killed in another harassment operation by an NPA team on October 30 at Si- tio Old Nursery, Barangay Disulap, San Mariano.
At past midnight on October 17, three soldiers from a 24-man platoon also of the 51st DRC were felled and an undetermined number wounded in an encounter with a platoon under the Benito Tesorio Command in Sitio Kidog-kidog, Barangay Santa Isabel, Jones town. The Red fighters did not suffer any casualties in the 30-minute firefight. The 5th ID claimed that neither side suffered casualties. (Culled from a report from the Fortunato Camus Command NPA-Cagayan Valley)
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/two-ambushes-in-the-early-morning
Red fighters from the Benito Tesorio and Reynaldo Piñon Commands dealt blows on the strike forces of the 5th ID in two separate ambushes in the early morning of November 27. The 51st and 52nd Division Reconnaissance Companies (DRC) are the so-called elite units of the 5th ID. Up to 13 of their troops fell in battle in two firefights that took place three hours apart in the adjacent towns of San Mariano and Echague.
In an official statement, the Benito Tesorio Command reported having seized an M60 and three K3 submachine guns, five M16 rifles, three pairs of night vision scopes, a Harris radio, a pair of binoculars, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and 15 US backpacks from the enemy in the second gunbattle in Echague.
The 51st and 52nd DRC’s tactics involve night movements and the use of night vision scopes. These two ambushes proved that despite operating under cover of darkness, the enemy could not conceal the pattern of its movements from the masses and the NPA.
At 1:30 a.m. of November 17, in Sitio Luzcon, Barangay Gangalan, San Mariano, six troopers from a platoon under the 51st DRC led by 2Lieutenant Cabanas were killed in an ambush by a platoon under the Reynaldo Piñon Command.
Meanwhile, in the early morning of November 16 in Mabbayad, Echague, Red fighters ambushed elements of the 52nd DRC conducting operations in an area that was previously the site of an NPA encampment. Seeing no one at the site, they stayed the whole day in a place full of thickets. An NPA platoon nearby learned of their presence and positioned themselves in a place where the soldiers would likely pass and waited in ambush.....
Before these two victorious ambuscades, three gunbattles took place between the NPA and the 51st DRC in Jones and San Mariano towns. Nine soldiers were killed and at least ten wounded in these firefights. Two soldiers were killed and ten wounded in a harassment operation by an NPA squad on November 8 against the 54-man 51st DRC troop in Sitio Namulan, Barangay San Jose, San Mariano. The AFP concealed this from the media, but several peasants saw two military helicopters retrieving the dead and wounded.
Meantime, four troopers from a 25-man platoon of the 51st DRC were killed in another harassment operation by an NPA team on October 30 at Si- tio Old Nursery, Barangay Disulap, San Mariano.
At past midnight on October 17, three soldiers from a 24-man platoon also of the 51st DRC were felled and an undetermined number wounded in an encounter with a platoon under the Benito Tesorio Command in Sitio Kidog-kidog, Barangay Santa Isabel, Jones town. The Red fighters did not suffer any casualties in the 30-minute firefight. The 5th ID claimed that neither side suffered casualties. (Culled from a report from the Fortunato Camus Command NPA-Cagayan Valley)
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20121207/two-ambushes-in-the-early-morning
MILF: MILF peace panel invites BUC for dialogue
From the MILF Website (Dec 12): MILF peace panel invites BUC for dialogue
A member of the MILF peace panel told Luwaran that they are ready to meet the Bishop-Ulama Conference of the Philippines (BUC) in a round table dialogue any time in January 2013. Abdulla Camlian, a member of the MILF peace panel, was reacting to report that a ranking member of the BUC told reporters that even if they were not consulted by the government, they will still support the FAB and continue their activities for peace in Mindanao. “This is a grand gesture on the part of the BUC,” Camlian pointed out, assuring that even though the MILF is not remiss in talking to priests, pastors, and ulamas belong to the BUC, we still desire further dialogue with them.
The complaint was attributed to Ustadz Mahmod Mala L. Adilao, BUC regional chairperson, who said during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao that he does not know why the BUC has not received any official invitation from the government despite being an adviser or consultant in the peace process during former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term.
Mindanews reporter quoted him as saying that although the entire country knew when the BUC, a dialogue forum, was established in 1996 and yet the Aquino administration has not involved it in the peace process between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the MILF. “But it does not mean we won’t help in the Framework Agreement,” he clarified. He said, however, that while the Muslim community is happy about the signing of the FAB, most of them do not understand the FAB and where it will take them is still unknown. Adilao said they are still reviewing the FAB and find out how exactly they can help.
Also at the Kapehan, Antonio Apat, chair of Agong Network, a partner of the BUC in its activities especially for the grassroots in Mindanao, said the group has set a series of information and education campaign on the FAB in different areas in Mindanao. He added that the group supports the FAB, more so that they want to make sure that this will become successful.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2988:-milf-peace-panel-invites-buc-for-dialogue&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
A member of the MILF peace panel told Luwaran that they are ready to meet the Bishop-Ulama Conference of the Philippines (BUC) in a round table dialogue any time in January 2013. Abdulla Camlian, a member of the MILF peace panel, was reacting to report that a ranking member of the BUC told reporters that even if they were not consulted by the government, they will still support the FAB and continue their activities for peace in Mindanao. “This is a grand gesture on the part of the BUC,” Camlian pointed out, assuring that even though the MILF is not remiss in talking to priests, pastors, and ulamas belong to the BUC, we still desire further dialogue with them.
The complaint was attributed to Ustadz Mahmod Mala L. Adilao, BUC regional chairperson, who said during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao that he does not know why the BUC has not received any official invitation from the government despite being an adviser or consultant in the peace process during former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term.
Mindanews reporter quoted him as saying that although the entire country knew when the BUC, a dialogue forum, was established in 1996 and yet the Aquino administration has not involved it in the peace process between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the MILF. “But it does not mean we won’t help in the Framework Agreement,” he clarified. He said, however, that while the Muslim community is happy about the signing of the FAB, most of them do not understand the FAB and where it will take them is still unknown. Adilao said they are still reviewing the FAB and find out how exactly they can help.
Also at the Kapehan, Antonio Apat, chair of Agong Network, a partner of the BUC in its activities especially for the grassroots in Mindanao, said the group has set a series of information and education campaign on the FAB in different areas in Mindanao. He added that the group supports the FAB, more so that they want to make sure that this will become successful.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2988:-milf-peace-panel-invites-buc-for-dialogue&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
BIFM: Triple Plan Fails
Just noticed this article posted to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement blog. Although dated, it gives the BIFM take on the recent attempts to assassinate key leaders of the group:
TRIPLE PLAN FAILS
November 26, 2012
TRIPLE PLAN FAILS
About 8:15am of November 26, 2012, three groups of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) were placed under death threat while on their respective ways to a civilian gathering (NADWAH) at Brgy. Igana-gampong, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao. Sheikh Muhiddin Animbang, the chief of the BIFF and his men hit by a pair of 81mm Improvised Explosive Device. Sheikh Animbang was badly hit by several splinters on his head but with the help of ALLAH (S.W.T.) none of the splinters that hit him penetrate into his head and other parts of his body. As of this moment he is on physically and mentally capable.
Second group headed by Sheikh Muhammad Ali Tambako, the vice chairman for political affairs and his men were hit by another 105 ammo howitzer improvised explosive bomb. One of his men was badly hit which resulted to his immediate death while the vice chairman was saved by ALLAH (S.W.T.) as splinters that hit him were prevented by the creator of the Heaven and Earth.
The 3rd group was headed by Sheikh Ismael Abubakar who also about to meet the same experience but luckily the 81mm Improvised Explosive Device did not explode.
At this point in time enemies of Islam in our community have widely and deeply penetrated into our midst. These three groups were invited by civil sector as resource speakers on Islamic Orientation (NADWAH) scheduled on November 26, 2012, those responsible on placing the IED in their respective ways going to the NADWAH ISLAMIAH are qualified enemies of Islam.
There were four NADWAH successfully conducted, on this November 26, 2012 was supposedly the 5th one, attended by no less than five thousand registrants. But in the opinion of Sheikh Muhiddin Animbang, this incidence serves as nutrients to the growth and development of this Islamic Movement (BIFM) in the Bangsamoro Homeland, century to the opinion of the enemies of Islam that this will weakends our mandate to regain our usurped sovereignty.
Lastly, we are requesting our brothers and sisters in Jihad Fiy Sabiy Lillah to pray for us and all Muslim ummah who under taking Islamic Movement.
Second group headed by Sheikh Muhammad Ali Tambako, the vice chairman for political affairs and his men were hit by another 105 ammo howitzer improvised explosive bomb. One of his men was badly hit which resulted to his immediate death while the vice chairman was saved by ALLAH (S.W.T.) as splinters that hit him were prevented by the creator of the Heaven and Earth.
The 3rd group was headed by Sheikh Ismael Abubakar who also about to meet the same experience but luckily the 81mm Improvised Explosive Device did not explode.
At this point in time enemies of Islam in our community have widely and deeply penetrated into our midst. These three groups were invited by civil sector as resource speakers on Islamic Orientation (NADWAH) scheduled on November 26, 2012, those responsible on placing the IED in their respective ways going to the NADWAH ISLAMIAH are qualified enemies of Islam.
There were four NADWAH successfully conducted, on this November 26, 2012 was supposedly the 5th one, attended by no less than five thousand registrants. But in the opinion of Sheikh Muhiddin Animbang, this incidence serves as nutrients to the growth and development of this Islamic Movement (BIFM) in the Bangsamoro Homeland, century to the opinion of the enemies of Islam that this will weakends our mandate to regain our usurped sovereignty.
Lastly, we are requesting our brothers and sisters in Jihad Fiy Sabiy Lillah to pray for us and all Muslim ummah who under taking Islamic Movement.
Indonesia, PHL security pact to foil Jemaah Islamiyah — envoy
From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Dec 11): Indonesia, PHL security pact to foil Jemaah Islamiyah — envoy
RENEWED MILITARY COOPERATION. Indonesia’s Commander in Chief Admiral Agus Suhartono and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Jessie Dellosa sign the Military Cooperation framework Monday in Davao City. Part of the agreement is the military joint training “to fight against terrorist groups operation in North Sulawesi and Mindanao.” (davaotoday.com photo by Mick M. Basa)
The Philippines and Indonesian governments have renewed its military cooperation in North Sulawesi and Mindanao. Indonesian Consul General to the Philippines, Eko Hartono, said the latest Philippines-Indonesia Military Cooperation (Philindo MC), which is a joint training of the two countries’ air forces, navy and the army is aimed “to fight terrorist groups” known to have been operating in such areas which are considered a common border to both countries.
The Philindo MC framework agreement was signed Monday by Admiral Agus Suhartono, Indonesia’s military commander-in-chief and General Jessie Dellosa, chief-of-staff of the Philippine Armed Forces at the Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters in Davao City. The Indonesian government has also turned over 4 tonnes of humanitarian assistance and USD 1 million worth of financial aid for the Philippines typhoon Bopha victims at the ceremony. “This has been our concern on how to improve our military cooperation,” Hartono told reporters at the sidelines of the agreement signing.
Both governments have constantly renewed its cooperation to curb illegal activities along their common border. Keeping watch along the border for “terrorists and illegal fishermen,” the first cooperation deal was forged in 1975. Hartono said both governments need to secure the border to keep watch on “transnational organized crimes.” Last month, a suspected member of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) from Indonesia was reportedly killed in a clash between Philippine arresting authorities in Marawi City. In January, the Philippine military claimed to have killed, alleged two key JI leaders, Zulfikli bin Hir and Mohammad Ali. JI, a “Southeast Asian militant Islamist organization” is said to have a growing network in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
http://davaotoday.com/main/2012/12/11/indonesia-phl-security-pact-to-foil-jemaah-islamiyah-envoy/
RENEWED MILITARY COOPERATION. Indonesia’s Commander in Chief Admiral Agus Suhartono and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Jessie Dellosa sign the Military Cooperation framework Monday in Davao City. Part of the agreement is the military joint training “to fight against terrorist groups operation in North Sulawesi and Mindanao.” (davaotoday.com photo by Mick M. Basa)
The Philippines and Indonesian governments have renewed its military cooperation in North Sulawesi and Mindanao. Indonesian Consul General to the Philippines, Eko Hartono, said the latest Philippines-Indonesia Military Cooperation (Philindo MC), which is a joint training of the two countries’ air forces, navy and the army is aimed “to fight terrorist groups” known to have been operating in such areas which are considered a common border to both countries.
The Philindo MC framework agreement was signed Monday by Admiral Agus Suhartono, Indonesia’s military commander-in-chief and General Jessie Dellosa, chief-of-staff of the Philippine Armed Forces at the Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters in Davao City. The Indonesian government has also turned over 4 tonnes of humanitarian assistance and USD 1 million worth of financial aid for the Philippines typhoon Bopha victims at the ceremony. “This has been our concern on how to improve our military cooperation,” Hartono told reporters at the sidelines of the agreement signing.
Both governments have constantly renewed its cooperation to curb illegal activities along their common border. Keeping watch along the border for “terrorists and illegal fishermen,” the first cooperation deal was forged in 1975. Hartono said both governments need to secure the border to keep watch on “transnational organized crimes.” Last month, a suspected member of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) from Indonesia was reportedly killed in a clash between Philippine arresting authorities in Marawi City. In January, the Philippine military claimed to have killed, alleged two key JI leaders, Zulfikli bin Hir and Mohammad Ali. JI, a “Southeast Asian militant Islamist organization” is said to have a growing network in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
http://davaotoday.com/main/2012/12/11/indonesia-phl-security-pact-to-foil-jemaah-islamiyah-envoy/
RPM-M/RWP-M: A critique of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) between the government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
From the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa (RPM-M) also known as the Revolutionary Workers Party-Mindanao (RWP-M) (Dec 8): A critique of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) between the government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
[The document is a lengthy critique of the FAB. This critique also appeared in International Viewpoint-Online News & Analysis of the Fourth International. Below are the concluding paragraphs of the critique.]
Can the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) be an answer to the Moro Question and the Philippine/Mindanao problem?
At a glance, there are substantial similarities between the processes and the substance of the MNLF-GRP Final Peace Agreement (FPA) and the FAB and the eventual FPA between the GPH and the MILF. Both have gone through elaborate stages before reaching political arrangements for the transition from old to new forms of political governance. In the case of MNLF, the process and agreement had been reached to form an expanded ARMM and had amended R.A. 6734 to have R.A. 9054 to ensure its constitutional bases. It had established the SPCPD which would manage the development activities in the SZOPAD under the leadership of the MNLF. In the case of MILF, it will make laws called Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to amend R.A. 9054 and form the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to replace the ARMM. All of these initiatives will be under the leadership of the MILF and which will be part of the formation of the Bangsamoro Government (BG).
Both processes look very elaborate at least theoretically and politically doable except that, they both would be implemented in the socio-economic and political context of the existing dominant system of the Philippines. This brings one and all to ask basic question of the root cause/s of the Bangsamoro struggles for self determination. The dominant system in the country is a neo-liberal stage of global capitalism which has caused the intensification of the current form of national oppression of the Bangsamoro especially the most oppressed and exploited sections of its population. The Bangsamoro people in general has been economically exploited, politically marginalized and culturally alienated for a very long time. The struggles for self determination led by different Moro revolutionary fronts were all geared towards the elimination of the national oppression and the causes which made them possible. The setting-up of the political and economic structures has been part of the process of building a nation within a bigger nation.
Instead of initiating activities to resolve the causes of the national oppression the dominant system through the Philippine government has tried to hasten the mainstreaming of the Bangsamoro into the system of the country. This kind of solution has been patterned to the pacification model used by the colonial governments in the past.
The glaring ineffectiveness and failure of this kind of model had caused the upsurge of the Moro uprisings and revolutionary movements since the colonial years and even today.The FPA between the government and the MNLF is the latest version of this model where peace is won not in the battlefields but on the negotiating table but miserably failed. And one of the strong manifestations for its failure is the FAB. But where did the MNLF-FPA fail that the FAB can take on and learn from it?
The national oppression of the Bangsamoro which is the main reason for its struggle for self determination has never been addressed in the FPA. The focus was only on the MNLF leadership especially Nur Misuari and when the former and the latter became divided and weak, they became marginalized while the whole population of the Bangsamoro have been subjected to the process of mainstreaming.
The FAB, this early has shown similar signs where the MNLF is being swallowed by the dominant system. The BBL cannot be and will never be allowed to be contradictory to the substantial laws framed by the dominant system of the country. The BG will soon become integral part of the country’s political system which will be dictated by the neo-liberal framework and its technocrats. The MILF does not have its own economic system and therefore it is a matter of time when new Bangsamoro elite or recycled elite will dominate the whole Bangsamoro population in connivance of the elite of the dominant system.
The FAB is not inclusive in spirit and in deed and if this orientation will not change it will lose the vital support of the non-Moro and non-Muslim population in Mindanao in particular and the whole country in general.
It has never factored in the distinct history and circumstances of the Indigenous (IPs) both as a people and having their distinct territories. Therefore, it cannot have genuine support of the IPs before, during and after the BG is established.
These are just few signs that the FAB cannot really answer the Bangsamoro issue on self determination and the Mindanao/Philippine problem with regards to the national oppression in the context of the neo-liberal capitalist-led globalization in Mindanao in particular and the whole country in general.
http://www.grenzeloos.org/jl/?p=435
[The document is a lengthy critique of the FAB. This critique also appeared in International Viewpoint-Online News & Analysis of the Fourth International. Below are the concluding paragraphs of the critique.]
Can the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) be an answer to the Moro Question and the Philippine/Mindanao problem?
At a glance, there are substantial similarities between the processes and the substance of the MNLF-GRP Final Peace Agreement (FPA) and the FAB and the eventual FPA between the GPH and the MILF. Both have gone through elaborate stages before reaching political arrangements for the transition from old to new forms of political governance. In the case of MNLF, the process and agreement had been reached to form an expanded ARMM and had amended R.A. 6734 to have R.A. 9054 to ensure its constitutional bases. It had established the SPCPD which would manage the development activities in the SZOPAD under the leadership of the MNLF. In the case of MILF, it will make laws called Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to amend R.A. 9054 and form the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to replace the ARMM. All of these initiatives will be under the leadership of the MILF and which will be part of the formation of the Bangsamoro Government (BG).
Both processes look very elaborate at least theoretically and politically doable except that, they both would be implemented in the socio-economic and political context of the existing dominant system of the Philippines. This brings one and all to ask basic question of the root cause/s of the Bangsamoro struggles for self determination. The dominant system in the country is a neo-liberal stage of global capitalism which has caused the intensification of the current form of national oppression of the Bangsamoro especially the most oppressed and exploited sections of its population. The Bangsamoro people in general has been economically exploited, politically marginalized and culturally alienated for a very long time. The struggles for self determination led by different Moro revolutionary fronts were all geared towards the elimination of the national oppression and the causes which made them possible. The setting-up of the political and economic structures has been part of the process of building a nation within a bigger nation.
Instead of initiating activities to resolve the causes of the national oppression the dominant system through the Philippine government has tried to hasten the mainstreaming of the Bangsamoro into the system of the country. This kind of solution has been patterned to the pacification model used by the colonial governments in the past.
The glaring ineffectiveness and failure of this kind of model had caused the upsurge of the Moro uprisings and revolutionary movements since the colonial years and even today.The FPA between the government and the MNLF is the latest version of this model where peace is won not in the battlefields but on the negotiating table but miserably failed. And one of the strong manifestations for its failure is the FAB. But where did the MNLF-FPA fail that the FAB can take on and learn from it?
The national oppression of the Bangsamoro which is the main reason for its struggle for self determination has never been addressed in the FPA. The focus was only on the MNLF leadership especially Nur Misuari and when the former and the latter became divided and weak, they became marginalized while the whole population of the Bangsamoro have been subjected to the process of mainstreaming.
The FAB, this early has shown similar signs where the MNLF is being swallowed by the dominant system. The BBL cannot be and will never be allowed to be contradictory to the substantial laws framed by the dominant system of the country. The BG will soon become integral part of the country’s political system which will be dictated by the neo-liberal framework and its technocrats. The MILF does not have its own economic system and therefore it is a matter of time when new Bangsamoro elite or recycled elite will dominate the whole Bangsamoro population in connivance of the elite of the dominant system.
The FAB is not inclusive in spirit and in deed and if this orientation will not change it will lose the vital support of the non-Moro and non-Muslim population in Mindanao in particular and the whole country in general.
It has never factored in the distinct history and circumstances of the Indigenous (IPs) both as a people and having their distinct territories. Therefore, it cannot have genuine support of the IPs before, during and after the BG is established.
These are just few signs that the FAB cannot really answer the Bangsamoro issue on self determination and the Mindanao/Philippine problem with regards to the national oppression in the context of the neo-liberal capitalist-led globalization in Mindanao in particular and the whole country in general.
http://www.grenzeloos.org/jl/?p=435
China calls anew for trust, cooperation on West PHL Sea row
From GMANews (Dec 11): China calls anew for trust, cooperation on West PHL Sea row
China on Monday pushed anew for more efforts to increase "mutual trust and cooperation" with concerned parties having territorial disputes with it in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) area. Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the call after a Philippine-proposed meeting in Manila among four Southeast Asian claimants to the disputed seas was postponed. "China hopes the concerned parties take regional peace and stability as a priority and generate more efforts to increase mutual trust and cooperation," he said at a press conference Monday, according to a report posted on the Chinese government's web portal.
Last Friday, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs cited "scheduling problems" in postponing a proposed Philippine meeting this month among four Southeast Asian claimants to the Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea. DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei agreed to set the meeting at a later date.
China on Monday pushed anew for more efforts to increase "mutual trust and cooperation" with concerned parties having territorial disputes with it in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) area. Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the call after a Philippine-proposed meeting in Manila among four Southeast Asian claimants to the disputed seas was postponed. "China hopes the concerned parties take regional peace and stability as a priority and generate more efforts to increase mutual trust and cooperation," he said at a press conference Monday, according to a report posted on the Chinese government's web portal.
Last Friday, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs cited "scheduling problems" in postponing a proposed Philippine meeting this month among four Southeast Asian claimants to the Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea. DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei agreed to set the meeting at a later date.
Aside from the four claimants, China and Taiwan also lay claim to the Spratlys. China prefers to negotiate one on one with other claimants, which would give it advantage because of its size.
On Monday, Hong said China had noted the delay, but maintained China holds a "clear and consistent" position on the issue—that relevant disputes should be resolved through consultation and negotiation in a bilateral framework. He added this position, which is stated in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), has been agreed upon by all other nations who signed it.
On Monday, Hong said China had noted the delay, but maintained China holds a "clear and consistent" position on the issue—that relevant disputes should be resolved through consultation and negotiation in a bilateral framework. He added this position, which is stated in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), has been agreed upon by all other nations who signed it.
Security measures in place for Hataman's ARMM address
From the Philippine Star (Dec 11): Security measures in place for Hataman's ARMM address
The police and the 1st Marine Battalion Landing Team have started imposing security measures in the surroundings of the 32-hectare compound in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in preparation for the Dec. 18 state of the region address (SORA) of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman. The yearly SORA is an activity of the ARMM’s 27-member Regional Assembly, touted as “Little Congress” of the autonomous region. John Magno, who is Hataman’s chief of staff, said the ARMM police and the contingent of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 1 guarding the regional government compound are on guard, inspecting vehicles that are getting inside.
Magno said the security efforts are merely pre-emptive measures meant to thwart saboteurs.
"We have a very peaceful, quiet atmosphere here. But we're not taking chances," Magno said.
Magno said Hataman is expected to announce in his SORA his administration’s accomplishments in introducing reforms meant to fix the regional government’s fiscal and administrative woes.
Other ARMM officials are also expecting Hataman to reveal the amounts of funds saved in recent months through his administration’s stringent handling of grants from the national coffer that are earmarked for salaries and operations of line agencies and support offices under the Office of the Regional Governor (ORG). The ORG, which Hataman has been managing on a caretaker basis since December 2011, wields ministerial control over more than 40 regional departments and support offices devolved to the ARMM by the national government.
The ARMM’s public works department just procured last month costly road-building machineries worth P41 million from its savings. The road-building equipment has been released to the two district engineering offices in Maguindanao, a component province of ARMM.
Magno said Hataman has invited peace activists from across Mindanao, representatives of different embassies of member-states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the European Union and the UK and US governments to the Dec. 18 SORA. Magno said they are also expecting local executives from the ARMM provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, and the cities of Lamitan and Marawi to attend the SORA.
Magno said Hataman will also renew his administration’s support to the Oct. 15 framework agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The MILF has dozens of enclaves in the autonomous region. The rebel group’s bastion, Camp Darapanan, is located in Sultan Kudarat town in the first district of Maguindanao.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884820/security-measures-place-hatamans-armm-address
The police and the 1st Marine Battalion Landing Team have started imposing security measures in the surroundings of the 32-hectare compound in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in preparation for the Dec. 18 state of the region address (SORA) of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman. The yearly SORA is an activity of the ARMM’s 27-member Regional Assembly, touted as “Little Congress” of the autonomous region. John Magno, who is Hataman’s chief of staff, said the ARMM police and the contingent of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 1 guarding the regional government compound are on guard, inspecting vehicles that are getting inside.
Magno said the security efforts are merely pre-emptive measures meant to thwart saboteurs.
"We have a very peaceful, quiet atmosphere here. But we're not taking chances," Magno said.
Magno said Hataman is expected to announce in his SORA his administration’s accomplishments in introducing reforms meant to fix the regional government’s fiscal and administrative woes.
Other ARMM officials are also expecting Hataman to reveal the amounts of funds saved in recent months through his administration’s stringent handling of grants from the national coffer that are earmarked for salaries and operations of line agencies and support offices under the Office of the Regional Governor (ORG). The ORG, which Hataman has been managing on a caretaker basis since December 2011, wields ministerial control over more than 40 regional departments and support offices devolved to the ARMM by the national government.
The ARMM’s public works department just procured last month costly road-building machineries worth P41 million from its savings. The road-building equipment has been released to the two district engineering offices in Maguindanao, a component province of ARMM.
Magno said Hataman has invited peace activists from across Mindanao, representatives of different embassies of member-states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the European Union and the UK and US governments to the Dec. 18 SORA. Magno said they are also expecting local executives from the ARMM provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, and the cities of Lamitan and Marawi to attend the SORA.
Magno said Hataman will also renew his administration’s support to the Oct. 15 framework agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The MILF has dozens of enclaves in the autonomous region. The rebel group’s bastion, Camp Darapanan, is located in Sultan Kudarat town in the first district of Maguindanao.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884820/security-measures-place-hatamans-armm-address
Solons urge VFA junking, cite Subic toxic dumping
From the Philippine Star (Dec 11): Solons urge VFA junking, cite Subic toxic dumping
Two lady party-list representatives on Tuesday filed a joint resolution at the House of Representatives, proposing the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) in connection with the reported dumping of toxic wastes in subic Bay last month. In filing House Resolution 2886, Gabriela party-list Representatives Emmi de Jesus and Luzviminda Ilagan said it is about time for the Philippine government to review the treaty with the United States, saying "the agreement seems to serve the interest of only one side." De Jesus said it is alarming that the Glenn Defense Marine Asia, a Malaysian contractor which reportedly dumped wastes in Subic Bay, invoked provisions in the VFA as an argument to elude responsibility on their illegal act.
The Malaysian contractor reportedly argued that the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has no jurisdiction over the matter pursuant to the VFA since the vessels involved are not commercial, but primarily for the service and benefit of the US military. De Jesus said the VFA between the Philippines and the US allows the unlimited entry of US vessels and nuclear warships in the country to service joint military exercises. Consequently, this allows Glenn Defense Marine Asia to collect and dispose toxic wastes into Philippine seas.
The SBMA has started its own investigation on the Malaysian contractor allegedly hauling and dumping liquid toxic waste that are "beyond permissible limits" in Subic Bay. Ilagan said the test result of the water samples conducted by Subic Water and Sewerage Co. is quite alarming since it showed that the level of toxicity of the liquid wastes went beyond normal levels set by international marine pollution conventions. Ilagan said reports made by the SBMA showed that Mt Glenn Guardian, docked at Alava Pier in Subic Bay, was carrying some 189,500 liters of domestic waste and about 760 liters of bilge water, a combination of water, oil and grease, all of which were hauled from US Navy ship Emory Land. Ilagan said the toxic waste was allegedly dumped by Mt Glenn Guardian in West Philippine Sea, 35 kilometer from Subic Bay, without the appropriate permit and clearance.
Charo Simons, spokesperson of Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Health and Environment conservation, said that the waste dumping endangered not only the environment but also the lives of the people living in and around the Subic Bay area.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884840/solons-urge-vfa-junking-cite-subic-toxic-dumping
Two lady party-list representatives on Tuesday filed a joint resolution at the House of Representatives, proposing the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) in connection with the reported dumping of toxic wastes in subic Bay last month. In filing House Resolution 2886, Gabriela party-list Representatives Emmi de Jesus and Luzviminda Ilagan said it is about time for the Philippine government to review the treaty with the United States, saying "the agreement seems to serve the interest of only one side." De Jesus said it is alarming that the Glenn Defense Marine Asia, a Malaysian contractor which reportedly dumped wastes in Subic Bay, invoked provisions in the VFA as an argument to elude responsibility on their illegal act.
The Malaysian contractor reportedly argued that the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has no jurisdiction over the matter pursuant to the VFA since the vessels involved are not commercial, but primarily for the service and benefit of the US military. De Jesus said the VFA between the Philippines and the US allows the unlimited entry of US vessels and nuclear warships in the country to service joint military exercises. Consequently, this allows Glenn Defense Marine Asia to collect and dispose toxic wastes into Philippine seas.
The SBMA has started its own investigation on the Malaysian contractor allegedly hauling and dumping liquid toxic waste that are "beyond permissible limits" in Subic Bay. Ilagan said the test result of the water samples conducted by Subic Water and Sewerage Co. is quite alarming since it showed that the level of toxicity of the liquid wastes went beyond normal levels set by international marine pollution conventions. Ilagan said reports made by the SBMA showed that Mt Glenn Guardian, docked at Alava Pier in Subic Bay, was carrying some 189,500 liters of domestic waste and about 760 liters of bilge water, a combination of water, oil and grease, all of which were hauled from US Navy ship Emory Land. Ilagan said the toxic waste was allegedly dumped by Mt Glenn Guardian in West Philippine Sea, 35 kilometer from Subic Bay, without the appropriate permit and clearance.
Charo Simons, spokesperson of Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Health and Environment conservation, said that the waste dumping endangered not only the environment but also the lives of the people living in and around the Subic Bay area.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884840/solons-urge-vfa-junking-cite-subic-toxic-dumping
AFP, DND cancel Christmas party
From the Philippine Star (Dec 11): AFP, DND cancel Christmas party
The military and the Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday canceled their Christmas parties to show sympathy to the victims of typhoon Pablo. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said the move was also intended to express their solidarity with soldiers involved in rescue operations. “In light with the devastation brought by typhoon Pablo, the AFP is canceling General Headquarters and Headquarters Support Command Christmas parties. This is in solidarity with the victims, their families and our troops who are involved in the search, rescue and relief operations,” he said. “Our soldiers will celebrate Christmas in a way that is more relevant and sensitive to the needs of our people. what is more important is we take in our hearts the real meaning of sharing, gift-giving and love in this his Yuletide season.”
Also canceled was the joint Christmas party of the AFP and the Department of National Defense (DND), which was supposed to be held inCamp Aguinaldo
The Army’s 36th battalion and the GMA Kapuso Foundation distributed over the weekend Noche Buena package to members of indigenous tribes in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. The gift-giving was made possible by the efforts of local officials led by Gov. Jhonny Pimentel and civil society groups. Cpt. Rowel Caacbay, civil-military operations officer of the 36th battalion, said 1,632 gift packages had been distributed to local residents.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884867/afp-dnd-cancel-christmas-party
The military and the Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday canceled their Christmas parties to show sympathy to the victims of typhoon Pablo. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said the move was also intended to express their solidarity with soldiers involved in rescue operations. “In light with the devastation brought by typhoon Pablo, the AFP is canceling General Headquarters and Headquarters Support Command Christmas parties. This is in solidarity with the victims, their families and our troops who are involved in the search, rescue and relief operations,” he said. “Our soldiers will celebrate Christmas in a way that is more relevant and sensitive to the needs of our people. what is more important is we take in our hearts the real meaning of sharing, gift-giving and love in this his Yuletide season.”
Also canceled was the joint Christmas party of the AFP and the Department of National Defense (DND), which was supposed to be held in
The Army’s 36th battalion and the GMA Kapuso Foundation distributed over the weekend Noche Buena package to members of indigenous tribes in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. The gift-giving was made possible by the efforts of local officials led by Gov. Jhonny Pimentel and civil society groups. Cpt. Rowel Caacbay, civil-military operations officer of the 36th battalion, said 1,632 gift packages had been distributed to local residents.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/11/884867/afp-dnd-cancel-christmas-party
Bicol folks to fight human rights abuses
From the Bicol Today (Dec 11): Bicol folks to fight human rights abuses
Several hundreds marched Naga City main streets on Monday, December 10, to celebrate the 64th year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The march is a synchronized move with other protesters in the other Bicol provinces, and other provinces nationwide. There was no merry-making nor rejoice as the delegates coming from Camatines Sur’s far-flung areas had managed to slip through the tight militarized areas just to voice out their complaints of human rights violations in their places of residence. Some complained of fear while working on their farmlots, while others claimed that their kins were victims of military harassments. There were reports of extra-judicial killings, torture, and forced disappearances on civilians caught in the internal conflict..
“Amidst Oplan Bayanihan’s intensified attacks against the people, President Aquino’s government deserves nothing more from Bicolanos than condemnation and a reaffirmation of unrelenting fight versus the regime’s human rights violations as brought about by its counter-insurgency program,” declared John Concepcion, Karapatan-Bikol Spokesperson in Naga City. Karapatan led Monday’s protest marches across the region in commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Region-wide, an estimated 22 thousand protesters from all over Bicol are expected to flock the main streets as well as government and military establishments in their respective provinces to demand justice for victims of human rights violations, and call for the prosecution of perpetrators of these abuses.
“We draw specific attention to the punishment of the 49th Infantry Battalion, the 2nd IB, and the 42nd IB, all of which have committed grave abuses in recent months. These thugs and murderers are allowed to roam free of culpability – evident of the continuing impunity reminiscent of the horrors of Marcos’ Martial Law and GMA’s Oplan Bantay Laya,” Concepion added. The Camarines Norte-based 49th IB is being held responsible for the massacre of Mancera family and the extra-judicial killing of Malaya Barangay Captain Merlyn Bermas. Likewise, Karapatan-Bikol charges the 2nd IB for the spate of human rights abuses in 10 upland barangays of Guinobatan, Albay, and the murder and decapitation of Cabaloaon Barangay Councilman Eli Oguis. Also, the 42nd IB is also held culpable for the extra-judicial murder of Bayan Muna member Rodel Estrellado. The rights group claimed the upsurge of human rights violations is systemic of Oplan Bayanihan, saying that “recrimination should be exacted from the commanders of the 9th Infantry Division”, which is encamped at Pili, Camarines Sur.
Karapatan blamed President Aquino himself, being the military’s Commander-in-Chief and the nation’s foremost ruler. Concepcion clarified, “This is what PNoy, as directed by his imperialist masters, intends to achieve. Just like his predecessor, he and his ilks in the bureaucracy and the AFP hope that the terror inflicted by Oplan Bayanihan will cause the poverty-stricken Filipino people to be subdued in their claim of basic rights to life and livelood.” “But, the Bicol masses as Oragons aren’t a stifled lot. History bears accounts of united Bicolanos resolutely fighting all kinds of oppression and exploitation.” Concepcion recalled that, if in the past, Bicolanos together with Gen. Simeon Ola have firmly fought American aggressors, and have also effectively held back RP-US Balikatan in recent years, more so could Bicolanos struggle against such a clear and present danger as Oplan Bayanihan.
“Oplan Bayanihan does not give us land. On the contrary, its soldiers perpetuate CARP-ER which denies peasants of land to till. Oplan Bayanihan does not protect our livelihoods. Its menacing military patrols and operations prevent peasants from going to their farms, and workers from urban communities hindered from their jobs. Oplan Bayanihan does not provide us with education. In contrast, children cannot attend school when soldiers occupy their classrooms for barracks. Worse, our students are fed lies and are taught decadent manners by these so-called Peace and Development Teams. Oplan Bayanihan does not at all give us peace! For what peace is there when the people, incensed by the worsening crisis and discontent, are killed by government death squads?”, he continued.
Karapatan-Bikol recorded that under PNoy, Bicol has suffered the most number of extra-judicial killings among the regions, with recorded victims adding up to 34. These are civilians – mostly peasants – accused by the military of being NPA members or supporters. Despite all these, the AFP is poised to intensify its counter-insurgency campaign, certainly aggravating human rights violations as the deadline for Oplan Bayanihan’s Phase 1 ends in 2013. But for Karapatan-Bikol, December 10, 2012 will be unlike Human Rights Days of the past. This year’s commemoration will deeply forge among the Bicolano protesting masses their resolute stance to come together at all times, with all Oragon might, and face up to fight the human rights violations of the armed personnel of the state. Concepcion said that “PNoy proves that there is no letting up in his vicious attack against the people. But the Bicolano masses, having nothing to lose but yokes of oppression, are very much resolved to denounce his regime and give him a good fight.”
http://bicoltoday.com/?p=8010
Bicolanos and cause-oriented groups commemorate the International Human Rights Day, dennounce the atrocities and human rights violations of state forces.BICOLTODAY.COM FILE PHOTO
Several hundreds marched Naga City main streets on Monday, December 10, to celebrate the 64th year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The march is a synchronized move with other protesters in the other Bicol provinces, and other provinces nationwide. There was no merry-making nor rejoice as the delegates coming from Camatines Sur’s far-flung areas had managed to slip through the tight militarized areas just to voice out their complaints of human rights violations in their places of residence. Some complained of fear while working on their farmlots, while others claimed that their kins were victims of military harassments. There were reports of extra-judicial killings, torture, and forced disappearances on civilians caught in the internal conflict..
“Amidst Oplan Bayanihan’s intensified attacks against the people, President Aquino’s government deserves nothing more from Bicolanos than condemnation and a reaffirmation of unrelenting fight versus the regime’s human rights violations as brought about by its counter-insurgency program,” declared John Concepcion, Karapatan-Bikol Spokesperson in Naga City. Karapatan led Monday’s protest marches across the region in commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Region-wide, an estimated 22 thousand protesters from all over Bicol are expected to flock the main streets as well as government and military establishments in their respective provinces to demand justice for victims of human rights violations, and call for the prosecution of perpetrators of these abuses.
“We draw specific attention to the punishment of the 49th Infantry Battalion, the 2nd IB, and the 42nd IB, all of which have committed grave abuses in recent months. These thugs and murderers are allowed to roam free of culpability – evident of the continuing impunity reminiscent of the horrors of Marcos’ Martial Law and GMA’s Oplan Bantay Laya,” Concepion added. The Camarines Norte-based 49th IB is being held responsible for the massacre of Mancera family and the extra-judicial killing of Malaya Barangay Captain Merlyn Bermas. Likewise, Karapatan-Bikol charges the 2nd IB for the spate of human rights abuses in 10 upland barangays of Guinobatan, Albay, and the murder and decapitation of Cabaloaon Barangay Councilman Eli Oguis. Also, the 42nd IB is also held culpable for the extra-judicial murder of Bayan Muna member Rodel Estrellado. The rights group claimed the upsurge of human rights violations is systemic of Oplan Bayanihan, saying that “recrimination should be exacted from the commanders of the 9th Infantry Division”, which is encamped at Pili, Camarines Sur.
Karapatan blamed President Aquino himself, being the military’s Commander-in-Chief and the nation’s foremost ruler. Concepcion clarified, “This is what PNoy, as directed by his imperialist masters, intends to achieve. Just like his predecessor, he and his ilks in the bureaucracy and the AFP hope that the terror inflicted by Oplan Bayanihan will cause the poverty-stricken Filipino people to be subdued in their claim of basic rights to life and livelood.” “But, the Bicol masses as Oragons aren’t a stifled lot. History bears accounts of united Bicolanos resolutely fighting all kinds of oppression and exploitation.” Concepcion recalled that, if in the past, Bicolanos together with Gen. Simeon Ola have firmly fought American aggressors, and have also effectively held back RP-US Balikatan in recent years, more so could Bicolanos struggle against such a clear and present danger as Oplan Bayanihan.
“Oplan Bayanihan does not give us land. On the contrary, its soldiers perpetuate CARP-ER which denies peasants of land to till. Oplan Bayanihan does not protect our livelihoods. Its menacing military patrols and operations prevent peasants from going to their farms, and workers from urban communities hindered from their jobs. Oplan Bayanihan does not provide us with education. In contrast, children cannot attend school when soldiers occupy their classrooms for barracks. Worse, our students are fed lies and are taught decadent manners by these so-called Peace and Development Teams. Oplan Bayanihan does not at all give us peace! For what peace is there when the people, incensed by the worsening crisis and discontent, are killed by government death squads?”, he continued.
Karapatan-Bikol recorded that under PNoy, Bicol has suffered the most number of extra-judicial killings among the regions, with recorded victims adding up to 34. These are civilians – mostly peasants – accused by the military of being NPA members or supporters. Despite all these, the AFP is poised to intensify its counter-insurgency campaign, certainly aggravating human rights violations as the deadline for Oplan Bayanihan’s Phase 1 ends in 2013. But for Karapatan-Bikol, December 10, 2012 will be unlike Human Rights Days of the past. This year’s commemoration will deeply forge among the Bicolano protesting masses their resolute stance to come together at all times, with all Oragon might, and face up to fight the human rights violations of the armed personnel of the state. Concepcion said that “PNoy proves that there is no letting up in his vicious attack against the people. But the Bicolano masses, having nothing to lose but yokes of oppression, are very much resolved to denounce his regime and give him a good fight.”
http://bicoltoday.com/?p=8010
1,500 call for end to HR violations
From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 11): 1,500 call for
end to HR violations
Protestors at the human rights day rally at the Bacolod Public Plaza yesterday.
About 1,500 marched in the streets of Bacolod City yesterday to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the International Human Rights day. The farmers, government employees, service workers, youth, and members of progressive organizations who joined the march asked the government to immediately stop and address the problems of human rights violations.
Fred Caña, secretary general of Karapatan-Negros, said he was dismayed by the statement of Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, that there is zero human rights violations in Negros by the Army. He said Lactao is deceiving the Negrenses when many leaders of progressive organizations have been victims of trumped-up charges and were arrested without due process.
Because of the rampant filing of trumped-up charges, they and the National Union of People’s Lawyers filed a complaint before the Supreme Court last month questioning the judges and fiscals issuing warrants of arrest and orders without due process and proper investigation, Caña also said. Greg Ratin, chairman of BagongAlyansangMakabayan, said they want President Benigno Aquino III to have concrete answers to the call of the people to stop human rights violations. Ratin also gave the judiciary in Negros a rating of 3, claiming that judges and fiscals handling human rights cases were deemed to be biased, especially if the persons involved are leaders of progressive organizations.
At the rally yesterday, Philip Arles, the son of the late Judge Henry Arles who was assassinated in Ilog town in April this year, also supported the call to stop and address the problems of human rights violations. He said the violations are very rampant in Negros and have been tolerated and supported financially and logistically by people who are in power.
Six members of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade were identified as primary suspects in the killing of the judge, that also allegedly involved Ilog Mayor John Paul Alvarez, his father Vice Governor Genaro Alvarez Jr., and Cauayan Vice Mayor Jerry Tabujara. However, they have denied involvement in the crime.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/December/11/topstory7.htm
Protestors at the human rights day rally at the Bacolod Public Plaza yesterday.
About 1,500 marched in the streets of Bacolod City yesterday to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the International Human Rights day. The farmers, government employees, service workers, youth, and members of progressive organizations who joined the march asked the government to immediately stop and address the problems of human rights violations.
Fred Caña, secretary general of Karapatan-Negros, said he was dismayed by the statement of Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, that there is zero human rights violations in Negros by the Army. He said Lactao is deceiving the Negrenses when many leaders of progressive organizations have been victims of trumped-up charges and were arrested without due process.
Because of the rampant filing of trumped-up charges, they and the National Union of People’s Lawyers filed a complaint before the Supreme Court last month questioning the judges and fiscals issuing warrants of arrest and orders without due process and proper investigation, Caña also said. Greg Ratin, chairman of BagongAlyansangMakabayan, said they want President Benigno Aquino III to have concrete answers to the call of the people to stop human rights violations. Ratin also gave the judiciary in Negros a rating of 3, claiming that judges and fiscals handling human rights cases were deemed to be biased, especially if the persons involved are leaders of progressive organizations.
At the rally yesterday, Philip Arles, the son of the late Judge Henry Arles who was assassinated in Ilog town in April this year, also supported the call to stop and address the problems of human rights violations. He said the violations are very rampant in Negros and have been tolerated and supported financially and logistically by people who are in power.
Six members of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade were identified as primary suspects in the killing of the judge, that also allegedly involved Ilog Mayor John Paul Alvarez, his father Vice Governor Genaro Alvarez Jr., and Cauayan Vice Mayor Jerry Tabujara. However, they have denied involvement in the crime.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/December/11/topstory7.htm
Aquino extends military modernization program for 15 years
From InterAksyon (Dec 11): Aquino extends military modernization program for 15 years
President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday signed into law the revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act extending the program for another 15 years. Republic Act No. 10349 gives the AFP modernization program a budget of P75 million for the first five years. Aquino said the new law will "boost the AFP's capability upgrade program as it shifts from internal to external defense capability." It institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders.
The new law also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the Department of Defense as well as multi-year contracts. Aside from this, it exempts from the value added tax and customs duties the sale of weapons, equipment, and ammunition to the AFP. The law exempts from public bidding major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms.
AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos hailed the siging of the law, saying it would "significantly contribute" to the military's development, particularly towards addressing both internal and external security threats. "With this the AFP will be able to push for the acquisition of equipment ... (and) will also provide greater opportunities and enough time for us to finally achieve a minimum credible defense posture which will help us in better fulfilling our mandate to protect the people and the state," Burgos said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/50142/aquino-extends-military-modernization-program-for-15-years
President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday signed into law the revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act extending the program for another 15 years. Republic Act No. 10349 gives the AFP modernization program a budget of P75 million for the first five years. Aquino said the new law will "boost the AFP's capability upgrade program as it shifts from internal to external defense capability." It institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders.
The new law also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the Department of Defense as well as multi-year contracts. Aside from this, it exempts from the value added tax and customs duties the sale of weapons, equipment, and ammunition to the AFP. The law exempts from public bidding major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms.
AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos hailed the siging of the law, saying it would "significantly contribute" to the military's development, particularly towards addressing both internal and external security threats. "With this the AFP will be able to push for the acquisition of equipment ... (and) will also provide greater opportunities and enough time for us to finally achieve a minimum credible defense posture which will help us in better fulfilling our mandate to protect the people and the state," Burgos said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/50142/aquino-extends-military-modernization-program-for-15-years
Gov’t takes lead in crafting nat’l agenda on human rights
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): Gov’t takes lead in crafting nat’l agenda on human rights
The government has set the stage for the crafting of a national agenda on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with the hosting of a multi-sectoral human rights summit in Malacanang on Tuesday. The 2nd National Summit on International Humanitarian Law was organized by the Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), chaired by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., to further strengthen the country’s policies in upholding and protecting human rights, particularly during armed conflict. In a statement read by Deputy Executive Secretary Teofilo S. Pilando Jr. on his behalf, Ochoa said: “We are honored to host this event because it highlights and places great value on strong and productive discourse between government and human rights defenders to identify and collectively resolve critical issues.” “Moreover, it situates human rights and international humanitarian law within the same breadth as the promotion and protection of our people’s overall welfare and well-being, especially in situations of armed conflict,” he added.
According to Ochoa, the Philippine government’s commitment to the IHL further leapt forward under President Benigno S. Aquino III’s administration, citing several key measures and initiatives that it has taken since coming to office. Among these are the ratification of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court in August 2011 and its adoption months later to boost human rights protection in situations of armed conflict; the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2011-2016 Internal Peace and Security Plan: Bayanihan; and the issuance of Administrative Order No. 35, which created an inter-agency committee to probe human rights abuses allegedly committed by state and non-state forces. Other initiatives include the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro on October 15, and the signing of the terms of reference that rendered operational the government’s Complaints Monitoring Working Group under the Philippine Government Monitoring Committee to further enhance compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
Since the first national summit held in August of 2009, the government has likewise put in place Republic Act No. 9851, which defined and penalized war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. “Significant as they are, these developments should encourage all of us to revisit the other commitments we made at the first IHL summit some three years ago. These are commitments that deeply relate to our institutional mandates as government instrumentalities, as an independent national human rights institution, as civil society, and as parties to the armed conflicts in the land,” Ochoa said. “In the end, these commitments – and the challenges that come with them – will be our measure of readiness to craft a National Agenda on International Humanitarian Law that will fuse and further our efforts.” Participants in the human rights national summit, the second since August 2009, include representatives from the government, non-government organizations, civil society groups, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1761355217579
The government has set the stage for the crafting of a national agenda on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with the hosting of a multi-sectoral human rights summit in Malacanang on Tuesday. The 2nd National Summit on International Humanitarian Law was organized by the Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), chaired by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., to further strengthen the country’s policies in upholding and protecting human rights, particularly during armed conflict. In a statement read by Deputy Executive Secretary Teofilo S. Pilando Jr. on his behalf, Ochoa said: “We are honored to host this event because it highlights and places great value on strong and productive discourse between government and human rights defenders to identify and collectively resolve critical issues.” “Moreover, it situates human rights and international humanitarian law within the same breadth as the promotion and protection of our people’s overall welfare and well-being, especially in situations of armed conflict,” he added.
According to Ochoa, the Philippine government’s commitment to the IHL further leapt forward under President Benigno S. Aquino III’s administration, citing several key measures and initiatives that it has taken since coming to office. Among these are the ratification of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court in August 2011 and its adoption months later to boost human rights protection in situations of armed conflict; the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2011-2016 Internal Peace and Security Plan: Bayanihan; and the issuance of Administrative Order No. 35, which created an inter-agency committee to probe human rights abuses allegedly committed by state and non-state forces. Other initiatives include the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro on October 15, and the signing of the terms of reference that rendered operational the government’s Complaints Monitoring Working Group under the Philippine Government Monitoring Committee to further enhance compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
Since the first national summit held in August of 2009, the government has likewise put in place Republic Act No. 9851, which defined and penalized war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. “Significant as they are, these developments should encourage all of us to revisit the other commitments we made at the first IHL summit some three years ago. These are commitments that deeply relate to our institutional mandates as government instrumentalities, as an independent national human rights institution, as civil society, and as parties to the armed conflicts in the land,” Ochoa said. “In the end, these commitments – and the challenges that come with them – will be our measure of readiness to craft a National Agenda on International Humanitarian Law that will fuse and further our efforts.” Participants in the human rights national summit, the second since August 2009, include representatives from the government, non-government organizations, civil society groups, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1761355217579
Naval assets deployed to search for missing fishermen
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): Naval assets deployed to search for missing fishermen
Vessels and aircraft of the Philippine Navy are deployed to conduct search operations for hundreds of missing fisherman, nearly a week after typhoon Pablo hit a huge area in Southern Mindanao. Captain Robert Empedrad Commander of the Joint Task Force Maritime Search and Rescue, the Philippine Navy has deployed four ships and two islander aircraft for the search of an estimated 300 fishers mostly tuna catchers who remains unaccounted for. Among the vessels are the Patrol Ships BRP Miguel Malvar (PS 19), BRP Iloilo (PS 32) along with patrol crafts BRP Salvador Abcede(PG 114) and BRP Felix Apolinario (PG 395).
Empedrad said that the vessels have covered a wide swath of maritime area as he cited that PS 32 is already patrolling 100 nautical miles from land. The Navy’s two Islander aircraft have conducted four search sorties reaching as far as Indonesian airspace to look for the fishermen. Empedrad said that they have gotten clearance to proceed into Indonesian airspace. Empedrad said that Indonesia has also been helpful in the search with one Indonesian Navy vessel conducting the search within their territorial waters, he said that with clearance from the Indonesian Navy, some Philippine Navy ships will be crossing into Indonesian waters to help look for the missing fishermen who were caught in the huge typhoon.
Another Philippine Navy vessel is also expected to be deployed in the region to reinforce the search and rescue fleet while they are also asking for one more air asset to replace one Navy Islander plane which is due for mandatory check-up. Aside from the Navy, three vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard alongside fishing vessels from General Santos City are assisting in the SAR efforts. So far according to the Philippine Navy figures, as of Dec. 11 they have rescued 13 people and recovered 34 cadavers washed out to sea.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1541355210519
Vessels and aircraft of the Philippine Navy are deployed to conduct search operations for hundreds of missing fisherman, nearly a week after typhoon Pablo hit a huge area in Southern Mindanao. Captain Robert Empedrad Commander of the Joint Task Force Maritime Search and Rescue, the Philippine Navy has deployed four ships and two islander aircraft for the search of an estimated 300 fishers mostly tuna catchers who remains unaccounted for. Among the vessels are the Patrol Ships BRP Miguel Malvar (PS 19), BRP Iloilo (PS 32) along with patrol crafts BRP Salvador Abcede(PG 114) and BRP Felix Apolinario (PG 395).
Empedrad said that the vessels have covered a wide swath of maritime area as he cited that PS 32 is already patrolling 100 nautical miles from land. The Navy’s two Islander aircraft have conducted four search sorties reaching as far as Indonesian airspace to look for the fishermen. Empedrad said that they have gotten clearance to proceed into Indonesian airspace. Empedrad said that Indonesia has also been helpful in the search with one Indonesian Navy vessel conducting the search within their territorial waters, he said that with clearance from the Indonesian Navy, some Philippine Navy ships will be crossing into Indonesian waters to help look for the missing fishermen who were caught in the huge typhoon.
Another Philippine Navy vessel is also expected to be deployed in the region to reinforce the search and rescue fleet while they are also asking for one more air asset to replace one Navy Islander plane which is due for mandatory check-up. Aside from the Navy, three vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard alongside fishing vessels from General Santos City are assisting in the SAR efforts. So far according to the Philippine Navy figures, as of Dec. 11 they have rescued 13 people and recovered 34 cadavers washed out to sea.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1541355210519
Soldiers activate Task Group Diamond Response
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): Soldiers activate Task Group Diamond Response
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division activated the Task Group Diamond Response with its command post at the Division Grandstand on December 3 a day before the typhoon made landfall. All the soldiers at 4ID headquarters were reorganized to act as manpower of the task group to provide disaster response and rescue operation to the affected areas caused by typhoon “Pablo” in the division area of responsibility, particular in Cagayan de Oro City and other nearby cities and municipalities of Misamis Oriental. Lieutenant Colonel Rene R. Cañete headed the Task Group which directly supervised the deployment of disaster response teams to different parts of the city and other nearby cities and municipalities.
To synchronize the efforts of the Division with the city and the province, Captain Christian C. Uy, liaison officer of the Task Group Diamond Response was positioned at the Command Center of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) at the City Tourism Office who relayed the updates on the typhoon upon which deployment were based.
Days before the typhoon, 4ID in coordination with CDRRMC identified critical areas and residents were forced to evacuate to the pre-designated evacuation centers. Among the identified barangays were: Balulang, Carmen, Kauswagan, Macasandig, Nazareth, baraygany 1, 6, 7, 10, 13, 15, 7, 18, 23, 25, Isla Cupa, Isla Bugnao, Macabalan, Bulua, Bonbon, Bayabas, Lapasan, Gusa, Cugman, Tablon, Agusan, Puerto, Bugo, FS Catanico, Iponan, Tumpagon, Tuburan, Pigsag-an, Taglimao, Pagalungan, San Simon, Baikingon, Canitoan, Pagatpat, Iponan, and Puntod.
Typhoon Pablo brought heavy rains and winds over Cagayan de Oro City and the whole of Misamis Oriental in the early morning of December 4. Disaster Response Rescue Operation Teams of “TG Diamond Response” were deployed with rubber boats and rescued families trapped by floods at Macasandig, Macanhan and other parts of Cagayan de Oro.
Other teams were also deployed to various floods and landslide-prone areas. One platoon was sent to Barangay Iponan to monitor the rising water level of the river and further gave immediate assistance to the residents trapped by the floods. Another platoon was sent to El Salvador City to provide man power assistance and rescued 61 families trapped by the floods at Zone 1, Barangay Taytay. Other teams rescued the stranded residents at Zone 1, Barangay Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro City. Other DRRO teams were sent to Valencia City in Bukidnon to augment Division Task Unit “Peacemaker” to provide rescue and retrieval operations to flood survivors.
Major General Nestor A Añonuvo AFP, commander, 4ID said, “As of this time the Task Group Diamond Response is still active and ready to respond as need arises. Your soldiers are here to cater to your needs, we will assist you in any way possible especially during this time that natural calamity hits our area.” “I ordered my troops to be prepared to extend their services to our fellow Filipinos particular to the victims of the typhoon Pablo, rescue operation may have seized but the relief and rehabilitation operation is still on going,” Major General Añonuvo added. (4CMO/4ID/PA/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461355210116
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division activated the Task Group Diamond Response with its command post at the Division Grandstand on December 3 a day before the typhoon made landfall. All the soldiers at 4ID headquarters were reorganized to act as manpower of the task group to provide disaster response and rescue operation to the affected areas caused by typhoon “Pablo” in the division area of responsibility, particular in Cagayan de Oro City and other nearby cities and municipalities of Misamis Oriental. Lieutenant Colonel Rene R. Cañete headed the Task Group which directly supervised the deployment of disaster response teams to different parts of the city and other nearby cities and municipalities.
To synchronize the efforts of the Division with the city and the province, Captain Christian C. Uy, liaison officer of the Task Group Diamond Response was positioned at the Command Center of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) at the City Tourism Office who relayed the updates on the typhoon upon which deployment were based.
Days before the typhoon, 4ID in coordination with CDRRMC identified critical areas and residents were forced to evacuate to the pre-designated evacuation centers. Among the identified barangays were: Balulang, Carmen, Kauswagan, Macasandig, Nazareth, baraygany 1, 6, 7, 10, 13, 15, 7, 18, 23, 25, Isla Cupa, Isla Bugnao, Macabalan, Bulua, Bonbon, Bayabas, Lapasan, Gusa, Cugman, Tablon, Agusan, Puerto, Bugo, FS Catanico, Iponan, Tumpagon, Tuburan, Pigsag-an, Taglimao, Pagalungan, San Simon, Baikingon, Canitoan, Pagatpat, Iponan, and Puntod.
Typhoon Pablo brought heavy rains and winds over Cagayan de Oro City and the whole of Misamis Oriental in the early morning of December 4. Disaster Response Rescue Operation Teams of “TG Diamond Response” were deployed with rubber boats and rescued families trapped by floods at Macasandig, Macanhan and other parts of Cagayan de Oro.
Other teams were also deployed to various floods and landslide-prone areas. One platoon was sent to Barangay Iponan to monitor the rising water level of the river and further gave immediate assistance to the residents trapped by the floods. Another platoon was sent to El Salvador City to provide man power assistance and rescued 61 families trapped by the floods at Zone 1, Barangay Taytay. Other teams rescued the stranded residents at Zone 1, Barangay Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro City. Other DRRO teams were sent to Valencia City in Bukidnon to augment Division Task Unit “Peacemaker” to provide rescue and retrieval operations to flood survivors.
Major General Nestor A Añonuvo AFP, commander, 4ID said, “As of this time the Task Group Diamond Response is still active and ready to respond as need arises. Your soldiers are here to cater to your needs, we will assist you in any way possible especially during this time that natural calamity hits our area.” “I ordered my troops to be prepared to extend their services to our fellow Filipinos particular to the victims of the typhoon Pablo, rescue operation may have seized but the relief and rehabilitation operation is still on going,” Major General Añonuvo added. (4CMO/4ID/PA/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461355210116
Wescom, Ten Moves Foundation dedicate HS classroom in Palawan
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): Wescom, Ten Moves Foundation dedicate HS classroom in Palawan
The Western Command (Wescom) and Ten Moves Foundation dedicated another pre-fabricated interactive classroom to Bato National High School, Taytay, Palawan recently. As the pre-fabricated interactive classroom was dedicated, Wescom Commander Lt. Gen. Juancho M. Sabban, commended ‘Ten Moves’ for helping the Bayanihang Pampaaralan program, which is aimed to address classroom shortage, a reality.
Likewise, Lt. Gen. Sabban thanked the Parents -Teachers Association for actively taking part in the project. “While government is primarily tasked to provide free and quality education to every Filipino child, Ten Moves reminds us that we are all education stakeholders. And the youth, who ought to be the primary target of initiatives to comprise them as assets in the society, is everybody’s concern,” Lt. Gen. Sabban said.
Ten Moves Representative Angelo Valencia considered the Marines as not only the nation’s force of choice, but also as builders of choice. “The main strategy of Ten Moves is to look for two million Filipinos who will donate ten pesos a day for 10 months. This is about P300 per month or P3,000 for the entire 10 months. If the strategy becomes successful, it will help raise P6 billion, which is enough to build 10,000 classrooms,” states the foundation’s website. According to DepEd-Palawan Schools Division Superintendent Raul M. Marin, the collaboration indeed shows that it takes a village to educate a child.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=721355130617
The Western Command (Wescom) and Ten Moves Foundation dedicated another pre-fabricated interactive classroom to Bato National High School, Taytay, Palawan recently. As the pre-fabricated interactive classroom was dedicated, Wescom Commander Lt. Gen. Juancho M. Sabban, commended ‘Ten Moves’ for helping the Bayanihang Pampaaralan program, which is aimed to address classroom shortage, a reality.
Likewise, Lt. Gen. Sabban thanked the Parents -Teachers Association for actively taking part in the project. “While government is primarily tasked to provide free and quality education to every Filipino child, Ten Moves reminds us that we are all education stakeholders. And the youth, who ought to be the primary target of initiatives to comprise them as assets in the society, is everybody’s concern,” Lt. Gen. Sabban said.
Ten Moves Representative Angelo Valencia considered the Marines as not only the nation’s force of choice, but also as builders of choice. “The main strategy of Ten Moves is to look for two million Filipinos who will donate ten pesos a day for 10 months. This is about P300 per month or P3,000 for the entire 10 months. If the strategy becomes successful, it will help raise P6 billion, which is enough to build 10,000 classrooms,” states the foundation’s website. According to DepEd-Palawan Schools Division Superintendent Raul M. Marin, the collaboration indeed shows that it takes a village to educate a child.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=721355130617
2 backhoe burned by armed groups in Palawan
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): 2 backhoe burned by armed groups in Palawan
Suspected NPA rebels set fire to two backhoe equipment on Sunday in separate incidents in the north and south of Palawan. The first incident occurred Sunday when a small group of armed men burned a backhoe owned by CITI Nickel Mining Corporation in Barangay Punang in Sofronio Española town located some 170 kms south of Puerto Princesa City. After a few hours on the same Sunday in northern Palawan, about 20 armed men set fire to another backhoe in Barangay Pamontolon, Taytay town in the compound of Goldrock Construction Company. A caretaker of the construction company said that 3 men approached him and said that the incident was a warning and a revenge to the company for its “misdeeds”, low pay and often delayed wages to its employees.
In a local radio interview, Col. Antonio Manlapaz, Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) 4 said that they are now conducting investigation and pursuit operation jointly with the local PNP of Taytay. He also asked for the cooperation of the public especially the business community to inform and advise them of any extortion activities so that they can help concerned establishment in securing their property. Meanwhile, Manlapaz assured the public that the incident is no cause for alarm and that they are working doubly hard with the PNP to maintain peace and order in the province.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=711355189396
Suspected NPA rebels set fire to two backhoe equipment on Sunday in separate incidents in the north and south of Palawan. The first incident occurred Sunday when a small group of armed men burned a backhoe owned by CITI Nickel Mining Corporation in Barangay Punang in Sofronio Española town located some 170 kms south of Puerto Princesa City. After a few hours on the same Sunday in northern Palawan, about 20 armed men set fire to another backhoe in Barangay Pamontolon, Taytay town in the compound of Goldrock Construction Company. A caretaker of the construction company said that 3 men approached him and said that the incident was a warning and a revenge to the company for its “misdeeds”, low pay and often delayed wages to its employees.
In a local radio interview, Col. Antonio Manlapaz, Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) 4 said that they are now conducting investigation and pursuit operation jointly with the local PNP of Taytay. He also asked for the cooperation of the public especially the business community to inform and advise them of any extortion activities so that they can help concerned establishment in securing their property. Meanwhile, Manlapaz assured the public that the incident is no cause for alarm and that they are working doubly hard with the PNP to maintain peace and order in the province.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=711355189396
Rebels, orphans get PhilHealth coverage under new mandate
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 11): Rebels, orphans get PhilHealth coverage under new mandate
Under new directions of the state-run health insurance system, all rebel returnees and orphans will be enrolled under PhilHealth coverage, according to Rommel Aranca, Kalinga PhilHealth Field Office chief. He said current mandates from the Philippine Health Insurance Corp say that rebel returnees and orphans who by category belong to the special health insurance target groups will be enrolled under the sponsorship program of PhilHealth. “This is one way of assisting rebel returnees cope from the hardship of starting life anew after rejoining the mainstream society,” Aranca said.
Orphans, on the other hand, can also enjoy the same benefits while under the custody of foster parents. However, he explained that foster parents, even if they are relatives of orphans, have to apply first for formal custody care license from the Department of Social Welfare and Development before orphan PhilHealth enrolment proceeds.
Meanwhile, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Digna Dalutag said a number of former rebels amnestied before and identified under the National Household Targeting System and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps had also been enrolled in PhilHealth. She said they will work closely with PhilHealth to have all rebel returnees and orphans in the province get a coverage.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=171355197287
Under new directions of the state-run health insurance system, all rebel returnees and orphans will be enrolled under PhilHealth coverage, according to Rommel Aranca, Kalinga PhilHealth Field Office chief. He said current mandates from the Philippine Health Insurance Corp say that rebel returnees and orphans who by category belong to the special health insurance target groups will be enrolled under the sponsorship program of PhilHealth. “This is one way of assisting rebel returnees cope from the hardship of starting life anew after rejoining the mainstream society,” Aranca said.
Orphans, on the other hand, can also enjoy the same benefits while under the custody of foster parents. However, he explained that foster parents, even if they are relatives of orphans, have to apply first for formal custody care license from the Department of Social Welfare and Development before orphan PhilHealth enrolment proceeds.
Meanwhile, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Digna Dalutag said a number of former rebels amnestied before and identified under the National Household Targeting System and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps had also been enrolled in PhilHealth. She said they will work closely with PhilHealth to have all rebel returnees and orphans in the province get a coverage.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=171355197287
US extends financial assistance to victims of typhoon "Pablo"
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): US extends financial assistance to
victims of typhoon "Pablo"
Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair Lualhati Antonino thanked the United States for extending assistance to the typhoon victims in Davao Oriental and in Compostela Valley. She said the US has always provided aid and support to the Philippines but their “help has become more meaningful given at this time of disaster.”
US Charge’ d’Affaires Brian L. Goldbeck led the team of officials who went to Davao City Monday to announce the additional USD3million aid from the US Agency for International Development Office-US Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/UFDA). He said the US has previously conducted humanitarian assessments to determine where the US can best assist the typhoon-affected areas in Mindanao and Visayas.
The US has previously given USD100,000 to the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) for the WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) and emergency relief commodities, the ambassador said. "However, we realized that the effects of the typhoon were “much more devastating” than they initially thought of that is why the additional support was sent," he said.
Up to five C130 planes landed in Davao City Monday to haul off the relief goods from the US. Three water purification systems were also sent to Davao on Dec. 7 to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in their relief operations efforts. Goldbeck said a team of planning experts, from the Balikatang Planning Conference, who can best make an assessment of the ground situation in disaster areas were also sent to support the relief efforts. “They were immediately asked to set aside the process and shift their focus on the affected regions so they can help expedite the process of providing aid to the people,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=479056
Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair Lualhati Antonino thanked the United States for extending assistance to the typhoon victims in Davao Oriental and in Compostela Valley. She said the US has always provided aid and support to the Philippines but their “help has become more meaningful given at this time of disaster.”
US Charge’ d’Affaires Brian L. Goldbeck led the team of officials who went to Davao City Monday to announce the additional USD3million aid from the US Agency for International Development Office-US Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/UFDA). He said the US has previously conducted humanitarian assessments to determine where the US can best assist the typhoon-affected areas in Mindanao and Visayas.
The US has previously given USD100,000 to the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) for the WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) and emergency relief commodities, the ambassador said. "However, we realized that the effects of the typhoon were “much more devastating” than they initially thought of that is why the additional support was sent," he said.
Up to five C130 planes landed in Davao City Monday to haul off the relief goods from the US. Three water purification systems were also sent to Davao on Dec. 7 to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in their relief operations efforts. Goldbeck said a team of planning experts, from the Balikatang Planning Conference, who can best make an assessment of the ground situation in disaster areas were also sent to support the relief efforts. “They were immediately asked to set aside the process and shift their focus on the affected regions so they can help expedite the process of providing aid to the people,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=479056
President Aquino cites AFP Modernization Act in upholding sovereignty, and defending PHL territorial integrity
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): President Aquino cites AFP
Modernization Act in upholding sovereignty, and defending PHL territorial
integrity
President Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the importance of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act to equip the armed forces to perform its mandate of upholding the sovereignty and defending the territorial integrity of the country at all times. In his speech at the ceremonial signing of the new AFP Modernization Act otherwise known as Republic Act No.10349 at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace on Tuesday, the Chief Executive emphasized the importance of modernizing the armed forces to accelerate the transformation of the Philippines into a truly democratic, stable and progressive nation.
RA 10349 amends various provisions of RA No. 7898 otherwise known as the AFP Modernization Act. "Taong 1995 nang maisabatas ang Republic Act 7898 o mas kilala sa tawag na AFP Modernization Act. Layon nitong tiyakin na habang umuusad tayo sa mas modernong panahon, hindi napag-iiwanan sa uri ng gamit at armas, at nakakasabay sa antas ng kasanayan ang ating Sandatahang Lakas," the President said. "Subalit makalipas ang labimpitong taon, hindi maikakaila ang malawak na agwat sa pagitan ng mga antigo at pupugak-pugak na kagamitan ng ating kasundaluhan, at sa mga mas makabago’t high-tech na armas ng ibang mga nasyon," he added.
"Nagbago na rin ang mga bantang panseguridad ng ating bansa: Kung dati, labis na nakatutok ang pamahalaan sa pagpigil sa mga rebelde, ngayon, kailangang pagtuunan ng higit na pansin ang kaliwa’t kanang tangka ng mga terorista. Habang bumababa ang bilang ng mga umaanib sa mga grupong komunista, at matapos tayong makapagpanday ng kasunduang pangkapayapaan sa MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front), may iba pa ring mga pagsubok na kailangan nating paghandaan, gaya na lamang ng usaping teritoryal na kinakasangkutan rin ng ibang mas malalaking bansa sa rehiyon," the President said.
With the signing of the RA 10349, the AFP can effectively and fully perform its constitutional mandate to uphold the sovereignty and preserve the patrimony of the Republic of the Philippines. The law strengthens the AFP's capability to protect the country's exclusive economic zone from illegal intrusion and exploitation of its resource and secure border areas from smuggling, piracy, drug trafficking, poaching, and other illegal activities.
RA 10349 also strengthens the AFP's capability to help protect the country's natural resources and environment and assist in search and rescue operations during disasters and calamities. "Kaya naman, napapanahon at makabuluhan ang paglalagda natin ng new AFP Modernization Act. Hudyat ito sa pagbubukas ng mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapapagkatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas," the President said. "Humahakbang tayo pasulong tungo sa isang pambansang tanggulan na may tunay na kakayahan na protektahan ang sambayanan laban sa anumang banta sa ating soberenya’t kaligtasan. Patunay din ito sa dedikasyon ng pamahalaan na itaguyod ang kapakanan ng bawat Pilipinong bumubuo ng Sandatahang Lakas," he said.
The new law is a manifestation of the government's unwavering commitment to the AFP. "Kung kayo man ay nagsasaayos ng santambak na papeles sa Camp Aguinaldo; nasa kalagitnaan man kayo ng relief operations sa Compostela Valley; o nakadestino man kayo sa isang liblib na kampo sa Luzon, para sa inyong mga kawal na Pilipino ang new AFP Modernization Act," he said. "Gaya nang binanggit natin sa huling SONA (State of the Nation Address), pitumpu’t limang bilyong piso po ang nakalaang pondo para sa new AFP Modernization Act, na gagamitin para sa susunod na limang taon," he said. The President urged the Filipinos to remain on the straight and righteous path towards a progressive future. "Samakatuwid, sa paglalagda natin sa new AFP Modernization Act, muli na naman tayong nabibigyan ng dahilan upang ipagdiwang ang pasya ng taumbayan na tahakin ang tuwid na daan at humakbang tungo sa mas makabuluhang kinabukasan," he said.
President Aquino lauded the Department of National Defense, led by Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, and the House of Representative and the Senate for their contributions for the passage of the new law. "Tiwala po akong sa mga susunod na buwan, magsisimula nang makita ng sambayanan ang mga kongkretong bunga ng ating mga pagsusumikap, gayundin ang pagtaas ng dangal at moral ng ating buong kasundaluhan," he said.
Also present during the ceremonial signing were Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Senator Panfilo Lacson; Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Senator Edgardo Angara, 2nd District Paranaque Representative Roilo Golez, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, AFP Chief Staff General Jesse Dellosa, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office Secretary Manuel Mamba, and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma, among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479090
President Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the importance of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act to equip the armed forces to perform its mandate of upholding the sovereignty and defending the territorial integrity of the country at all times. In his speech at the ceremonial signing of the new AFP Modernization Act otherwise known as Republic Act No.10349 at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace on Tuesday, the Chief Executive emphasized the importance of modernizing the armed forces to accelerate the transformation of the Philippines into a truly democratic, stable and progressive nation.
RA 10349 amends various provisions of RA No. 7898 otherwise known as the AFP Modernization Act. "Taong 1995 nang maisabatas ang Republic Act 7898 o mas kilala sa tawag na AFP Modernization Act. Layon nitong tiyakin na habang umuusad tayo sa mas modernong panahon, hindi napag-iiwanan sa uri ng gamit at armas, at nakakasabay sa antas ng kasanayan ang ating Sandatahang Lakas," the President said. "Subalit makalipas ang labimpitong taon, hindi maikakaila ang malawak na agwat sa pagitan ng mga antigo at pupugak-pugak na kagamitan ng ating kasundaluhan, at sa mga mas makabago’t high-tech na armas ng ibang mga nasyon," he added.
"Nagbago na rin ang mga bantang panseguridad ng ating bansa: Kung dati, labis na nakatutok ang pamahalaan sa pagpigil sa mga rebelde, ngayon, kailangang pagtuunan ng higit na pansin ang kaliwa’t kanang tangka ng mga terorista. Habang bumababa ang bilang ng mga umaanib sa mga grupong komunista, at matapos tayong makapagpanday ng kasunduang pangkapayapaan sa MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front), may iba pa ring mga pagsubok na kailangan nating paghandaan, gaya na lamang ng usaping teritoryal na kinakasangkutan rin ng ibang mas malalaking bansa sa rehiyon," the President said.
With the signing of the RA 10349, the AFP can effectively and fully perform its constitutional mandate to uphold the sovereignty and preserve the patrimony of the Republic of the Philippines. The law strengthens the AFP's capability to protect the country's exclusive economic zone from illegal intrusion and exploitation of its resource and secure border areas from smuggling, piracy, drug trafficking, poaching, and other illegal activities.
RA 10349 also strengthens the AFP's capability to help protect the country's natural resources and environment and assist in search and rescue operations during disasters and calamities. "Kaya naman, napapanahon at makabuluhan ang paglalagda natin ng new AFP Modernization Act. Hudyat ito sa pagbubukas ng mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapapagkatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas," the President said. "Humahakbang tayo pasulong tungo sa isang pambansang tanggulan na may tunay na kakayahan na protektahan ang sambayanan laban sa anumang banta sa ating soberenya’t kaligtasan. Patunay din ito sa dedikasyon ng pamahalaan na itaguyod ang kapakanan ng bawat Pilipinong bumubuo ng Sandatahang Lakas," he said.
The new law is a manifestation of the government's unwavering commitment to the AFP. "Kung kayo man ay nagsasaayos ng santambak na papeles sa Camp Aguinaldo; nasa kalagitnaan man kayo ng relief operations sa Compostela Valley; o nakadestino man kayo sa isang liblib na kampo sa Luzon, para sa inyong mga kawal na Pilipino ang new AFP Modernization Act," he said. "Gaya nang binanggit natin sa huling SONA (State of the Nation Address), pitumpu’t limang bilyong piso po ang nakalaang pondo para sa new AFP Modernization Act, na gagamitin para sa susunod na limang taon," he said. The President urged the Filipinos to remain on the straight and righteous path towards a progressive future. "Samakatuwid, sa paglalagda natin sa new AFP Modernization Act, muli na naman tayong nabibigyan ng dahilan upang ipagdiwang ang pasya ng taumbayan na tahakin ang tuwid na daan at humakbang tungo sa mas makabuluhang kinabukasan," he said.
President Aquino lauded the Department of National Defense, led by Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, and the House of Representative and the Senate for their contributions for the passage of the new law. "Tiwala po akong sa mga susunod na buwan, magsisimula nang makita ng sambayanan ang mga kongkretong bunga ng ating mga pagsusumikap, gayundin ang pagtaas ng dangal at moral ng ating buong kasundaluhan," he said.
Also present during the ceremonial signing were Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Senator Panfilo Lacson; Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Senator Edgardo Angara, 2nd District Paranaque Representative Roilo Golez, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, AFP Chief Staff General Jesse Dellosa, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office Secretary Manuel Mamba, and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma, among others.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479090
Gov’t takes lead in crafting nat’l agenda on human rights
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): Gov’t takes lead in crafting nat’l
agenda on human rights
The government has set the stage for the crafting of a national agenda on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with the hosting of a multi-sectoral human rights summit in Malacanang on Tuesday. The 2nd National Summit on International Humanitarian Law was organized by the Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), chaired by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., to further strengthen the country’s policies in upholding and protecting human rights, particularly during armed conflict.
In a statement read by Deputy Executive Secretary Teofilo S. Pilando Jr. on his behalf, Ochoa said: “We are honored to host this event because it highlights and places great value on strong and productive discourse between government and human rights defenders to identify and collectively resolve critical issues.” “Moreover, it situates human rights and international humanitarian law within the same breadth as the promotion and protection of our people’s overall welfare and well-being, especially in situations of armed conflict,” he added. According to Ochoa, the Philippine government’s commitment to the IHL further leapt forward under President Benigno S. Aquino III’s administration, citing several key measures and initiatives that it has taken since coming to office.
Among these are the ratification of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court in August 2011 and its adoption months later to boost human rights protection in situations of armed conflict; the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2011-2016 Internal Peace and Security Plan: Bayanihan; and the issuance of Administrative Order No. 35, which created an inter-agency committee to probe human rights abuses allegedly committed by state and non-state forces.
Other initiatives include the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro on October 15, and the signing of the terms of reference that rendered operational the government’s Complaints Monitoring Working Group under the Philippine Government Monitoring Committee to further enhance compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF). Since the first national summit held in August of 2009, the government has likewise put in place Republic Act No. 9851, which defined and penalized war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.
“Significant as they are, these developments should encourage all of us to revisit the other commitments we made at the first IHL summit some three years ago. These are commitments that deeply relate to our institutional mandates as government instrumentalities, as an independent national human rights institution, as civil society, and as parties to the armed conflicts in the land,” Ochoa said. “In the end, these commitments – and the challenges that come with them – will be our measure of readiness to craft a National Agenda on International Humanitarian Law that will fuse and further our efforts.” Participants in the human rights national summit, the second since August 2009, include representatives from the government, non-government organizations, civil society groups, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479087
The government has set the stage for the crafting of a national agenda on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with the hosting of a multi-sectoral human rights summit in Malacanang on Tuesday. The 2nd National Summit on International Humanitarian Law was organized by the Presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC), chaired by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., to further strengthen the country’s policies in upholding and protecting human rights, particularly during armed conflict.
In a statement read by Deputy Executive Secretary Teofilo S. Pilando Jr. on his behalf, Ochoa said: “We are honored to host this event because it highlights and places great value on strong and productive discourse between government and human rights defenders to identify and collectively resolve critical issues.” “Moreover, it situates human rights and international humanitarian law within the same breadth as the promotion and protection of our people’s overall welfare and well-being, especially in situations of armed conflict,” he added. According to Ochoa, the Philippine government’s commitment to the IHL further leapt forward under President Benigno S. Aquino III’s administration, citing several key measures and initiatives that it has taken since coming to office.
Among these are the ratification of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court in August 2011 and its adoption months later to boost human rights protection in situations of armed conflict; the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2011-2016 Internal Peace and Security Plan: Bayanihan; and the issuance of Administrative Order No. 35, which created an inter-agency committee to probe human rights abuses allegedly committed by state and non-state forces.
Other initiatives include the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro on October 15, and the signing of the terms of reference that rendered operational the government’s Complaints Monitoring Working Group under the Philippine Government Monitoring Committee to further enhance compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF). Since the first national summit held in August of 2009, the government has likewise put in place Republic Act No. 9851, which defined and penalized war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.
“Significant as they are, these developments should encourage all of us to revisit the other commitments we made at the first IHL summit some three years ago. These are commitments that deeply relate to our institutional mandates as government instrumentalities, as an independent national human rights institution, as civil society, and as parties to the armed conflicts in the land,” Ochoa said. “In the end, these commitments – and the challenges that come with them – will be our measure of readiness to craft a National Agenda on International Humanitarian Law that will fuse and further our efforts.” Participants in the human rights national summit, the second since August 2009, include representatives from the government, non-government organizations, civil society groups, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479087
SC orders gov't to explain legality of Bangsamoro framework deal
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): SC orders gov't to explain legality of
Bangsamoro framework deal
The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday ordered the government to explain on the petition questioning the legality of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. This was after the SC en banc ruled that the government must file its comment within a period of 10 days. The SC sought to get the explanation of Malacanang as to questions on the legality of the agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The arguments to be presented will serve as the basis for the SC justices whether or not to enjoin the agreement.
Earlier, Associate Justice Marvic Leonen inhibited himself from handling the petition since he was a former party to the case. Before Leonen was appointed SC Associate Justice, he was the chair of the government negotiating panel in talks with the MILF.
In a 24-page petition for certiorari filed by Atty. Elly Pamatong, president of the International Ministries for Perfect and Party Against Communism and Terrorism, Inc. (IMPPACT, INC.), he asked the SC to declare as unconstitutional the signed agreement. The petitioners, who are also members of IMPPACT, are Rev. Mercidita Redoble and Rev. Vicente Libradores Aquino. The case was raffled off to Leonen who immediately informed the SC that he will inhibit from the case. With this, the petition would be raffled off with a new ponente, or the one tasked to write the decision to the case. The petition accused the Government Peace Panel of allegedly committing grave abuse of discretion when it formulated the Framework Agreement. The petitioners said that the forging of the agreement meant to dissolve the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which was formed via the 1976 Tripoli Agreement. The international treaty, the petitioners said, was recognized by the 1996 Final Peace Agreement and the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).
The government has been standing pat on its decision, saying that, the framework would only complement, not disregard, the existing Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA). Then government chief negotiator Leonen had also been expressing confidence that both parties would be able to complete the three annexes of the peace agreement by the end of the year.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479107
The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday ordered the government to explain on the petition questioning the legality of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. This was after the SC en banc ruled that the government must file its comment within a period of 10 days. The SC sought to get the explanation of Malacanang as to questions on the legality of the agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The arguments to be presented will serve as the basis for the SC justices whether or not to enjoin the agreement.
Earlier, Associate Justice Marvic Leonen inhibited himself from handling the petition since he was a former party to the case. Before Leonen was appointed SC Associate Justice, he was the chair of the government negotiating panel in talks with the MILF.
In a 24-page petition for certiorari filed by Atty. Elly Pamatong, president of the International Ministries for Perfect and Party Against Communism and Terrorism, Inc. (IMPPACT, INC.), he asked the SC to declare as unconstitutional the signed agreement. The petitioners, who are also members of IMPPACT, are Rev. Mercidita Redoble and Rev. Vicente Libradores Aquino. The case was raffled off to Leonen who immediately informed the SC that he will inhibit from the case. With this, the petition would be raffled off with a new ponente, or the one tasked to write the decision to the case. The petition accused the Government Peace Panel of allegedly committing grave abuse of discretion when it formulated the Framework Agreement. The petitioners said that the forging of the agreement meant to dissolve the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which was formed via the 1976 Tripoli Agreement. The international treaty, the petitioners said, was recognized by the 1996 Final Peace Agreement and the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).
The government has been standing pat on its decision, saying that, the framework would only complement, not disregard, the existing Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA). Then government chief negotiator Leonen had also been expressing confidence that both parties would be able to complete the three annexes of the peace agreement by the end of the year.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479107
Aquino signs into law Revised AFP Modernization Act
From Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): Aquino signs into law Revised AFP
Modernization Act
President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday signed into law the revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act extending the program for another 15 years. The President said the new law will "boost the AFP's capability upgrade program as it shifts from internal to external defense capability." "Napapanahon at makabuluhan ang paglalagda natin ng new AFP Modernization Act. Hudyat ito sa pagbubukas ng mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapapagkatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas," he said. "Humahakbang tayo pasulong tungo sa isang pambansang tanggulan na may tunay na kakayahan na protektahan ang sambayanan laban sa anumang banta sa ating soberenya’t kaligtasan. Patunay din ito sa dedikasyon ng pamahalaan na itaguyod ang kapakanan ng bawat Pilipinong bumubuo ng Sandatahang Lakas," he added.
Republic Act No. 10349 amends RA No. 7898 or the AFP Modernization Act. It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation subject to the capacity of the Department of National Defense (DND) to utilize and implement the program in accordance with the Defense System of Management (DSOM). The new law exempts certain major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms from public bidding. It also exempts from value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties the sale and importation of weapons, equipment and ammunition to the AFP which are directly and exclusively used for its projects, undertakings, activities and programs.
RA 10349 also institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders. It also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the DND as well as multi-year contracts. "Nagpapasalamat tayo sa ating mga mambabatas, sa mga opisyal ng Department of National Defense, sa pangunguna ni Voltaire Gazmin, gayundin sa mga opisyal ng Sandatahang Lakas na nagtulong-tulong sa pagpapanday ng new AFP Modernization Act. Tiwala po akong sa mga susunod na buwan, magsisimula nang makita ng sambayanan ang mga kongkretong bunga ng ating mga pagsusumikap, gayundin ang pagtaas ng dangal at moral ng ating buong kasundaluhan," the President.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479023
President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday signed into law the revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act extending the program for another 15 years. The President said the new law will "boost the AFP's capability upgrade program as it shifts from internal to external defense capability." "Napapanahon at makabuluhan ang paglalagda natin ng new AFP Modernization Act. Hudyat ito sa pagbubukas ng mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapapagkatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas," he said. "Humahakbang tayo pasulong tungo sa isang pambansang tanggulan na may tunay na kakayahan na protektahan ang sambayanan laban sa anumang banta sa ating soberenya’t kaligtasan. Patunay din ito sa dedikasyon ng pamahalaan na itaguyod ang kapakanan ng bawat Pilipinong bumubuo ng Sandatahang Lakas," he added.
Republic Act No. 10349 amends RA No. 7898 or the AFP Modernization Act. It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation subject to the capacity of the Department of National Defense (DND) to utilize and implement the program in accordance with the Defense System of Management (DSOM). The new law exempts certain major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms from public bidding. It also exempts from value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties the sale and importation of weapons, equipment and ammunition to the AFP which are directly and exclusively used for its projects, undertakings, activities and programs.
RA 10349 also institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders. It also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the DND as well as multi-year contracts. "Nagpapasalamat tayo sa ating mga mambabatas, sa mga opisyal ng Department of National Defense, sa pangunguna ni Voltaire Gazmin, gayundin sa mga opisyal ng Sandatahang Lakas na nagtulong-tulong sa pagpapanday ng new AFP Modernization Act. Tiwala po akong sa mga susunod na buwan, magsisimula nang makita ng sambayanan ang mga kongkretong bunga ng ating mga pagsusumikap, gayundin ang pagtaas ng dangal at moral ng ating buong kasundaluhan," the President.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=479023
CPP/NPA: 1 killed, another wounded in a sniping-harassment operation of the NPA
Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 10): 1 killed, another wounded in a sniping-harassment operation of the NPA
Jurie Guerrero
Spokesperson
NPA Central Panay (Jose Percival Estocada Command)
A unit of the New People’s Army under the Jose Percival Estocada Jr. Command (JPEC) harassed the 18-man PDT unit of the 61st IB based in Barangay Acuña, Tapaz, Capiz last November 29, 2012. The NPA unit positioned around 4am at an advantage position and conducted the sniping-harassment when a definite target showed himself around 8am. According to the populace, one was killed and was immediately transported out of the area. But in their statement to the media, the military command only admitted that one Pfc Arthur Etiong was wounded.
The PDT detachment is located in a populated area and near civilian houses. The fascists troops intend to use the civilians as a shield against NPA attacks. The red fighters exercised their discipline in firing and ensured that no civilian gets hurt in the assault. This is the second time that this detachment was attacked since May 14, 2012.
After the attack, their force was increased to a 27-man PDT unit to recover the morale of the frightened fascist troops. If we recall, this same PDT unit ran away in fear when a claymore detonated right inside their detachment when they were attacked last May 14 of this same year.
After this action, the NPA then burned the abandoned PDT detachment in Brgy. Tacayan, Tapaz, Capiz. The fascist troops were forced to abandon this detachment after they were harassed last September 8, 2012 which left Pfc Macolbacol dead. This military unit is responsible for the killing of 6-year old Rodelyn Aguirre last March 14, 2012.
The tumanduk people are rejoicing in these successive actions of their true army. For them, this is just a start of seeking payment from the lost list of military brutality and violations of human rights. They strongly believe that only through armed struggle can their cry for justice be met.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/1-killed-another-wounded-in-a-sniping-harassment-operation-of-the-npa
Jurie Guerrero
Spokesperson
NPA Central Panay (Jose Percival Estocada Command)
A unit of the New People’s Army under the Jose Percival Estocada Jr. Command (JPEC) harassed the 18-man PDT unit of the 61st IB based in Barangay Acuña, Tapaz, Capiz last November 29, 2012. The NPA unit positioned around 4am at an advantage position and conducted the sniping-harassment when a definite target showed himself around 8am. According to the populace, one was killed and was immediately transported out of the area. But in their statement to the media, the military command only admitted that one Pfc Arthur Etiong was wounded.
The PDT detachment is located in a populated area and near civilian houses. The fascists troops intend to use the civilians as a shield against NPA attacks. The red fighters exercised their discipline in firing and ensured that no civilian gets hurt in the assault. This is the second time that this detachment was attacked since May 14, 2012.
After the attack, their force was increased to a 27-man PDT unit to recover the morale of the frightened fascist troops. If we recall, this same PDT unit ran away in fear when a claymore detonated right inside their detachment when they were attacked last May 14 of this same year.
After this action, the NPA then burned the abandoned PDT detachment in Brgy. Tacayan, Tapaz, Capiz. The fascist troops were forced to abandon this detachment after they were harassed last September 8, 2012 which left Pfc Macolbacol dead. This military unit is responsible for the killing of 6-year old Rodelyn Aguirre last March 14, 2012.
The tumanduk people are rejoicing in these successive actions of their true army. For them, this is just a start of seeking payment from the lost list of military brutality and violations of human rights. They strongly believe that only through armed struggle can their cry for justice be met.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/1-killed-another-wounded-in-a-sniping-harassment-operation-of-the-npa
CPP: CPP calls on storm victims to rise up against Aquino's mediocre response
Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 11): CPP calls on storm victims to rise up against Aquino's mediocre response
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today called on the hundreds of thousands of victims of recent tropical storm Pablo to rise up in protest against the Aquino regime’s “mediocre and slothful response to the great disaster that has caused resulted in close to a thousand deaths, total destruction of infrastructure and complete displacement of the people’s livelihood.” Among the most devastated areas are the poor agricultural and coastal municipalities of Cateel, New Bataan, and Bagangga. Scores of other towns in Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental, Surigao del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Leyte, the southern part of Negros and other provinces also suffered grave damage. “A great majority of the victims are poor peasants, farm workers, agricultural workers, fishermen and mining workers who have been left without any source of income,” added the CPP.
“Hundreds of thousands of people have no shelter and are suffering from a lack of food supply and other basic commodities and implements. There is almost complete absence of emergency medical care. The nearest health facilities are several hours away. Many of the road systems remain unpassable.” “The Aquino regime has acted indolently in the face of the urgency of the situation. The image of Aquino himself distributing small plastic bags of relief goods is utterly pathetic in the face of the complete destruction of the people’s livelihood.” “People demand much much more from the Aquino regime which continues to rake in billions of pesos of taxes from large-scale mining companies who have plundered the area and caused massive destruction to the environment, leaving the people starkly vulnerable to disasters. More than ten of the biggest mining companies operate in Compostela Valley.”
“The people are utterly dismayed that the Aquino regime is more concerned with controlling looting and imposing price controls when the people are confronted with the more urgent matter of having completely lost their livelihoods, of having no shelter and no means to rebuild their lives.” “In the face of their grave situation, the people denounce the failure of the Aquino regime to carry out immediate and large-scale action to uplift them from disaster.” “The hundreds of thousands of victims of the recent calamity should organize and rise up in protest and collectively assert their demands for immediate relief and long-term economic upliftment.”
“The revolutionary forces, units of the New People’s Army, local Party branches and local mass organizations in the disaster areas should immeditely organize simultaneous cooperative efforts to help each other rebuild homes and resume production as well as launch mass struggles to push their demands for land reform.” “They can carry forward the demand to put under immediate land reform the thousands of hectares of banana plantations in order to use the land to plant food and other crops beneficial to the people.” “At the same time, the people can amplify their demand for the military to put a stop to the Oplan Bayanihan campaign of suppression that has long resulted in killings and widespread violations of human rights in the area and which have caused grave economic hardships on the people.”
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/cpp-calls-on-storm-victims-to-rise-up-against-aquino-s-mediocre-response
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today called on the hundreds of thousands of victims of recent tropical storm Pablo to rise up in protest against the Aquino regime’s “mediocre and slothful response to the great disaster that has caused resulted in close to a thousand deaths, total destruction of infrastructure and complete displacement of the people’s livelihood.” Among the most devastated areas are the poor agricultural and coastal municipalities of Cateel, New Bataan, and Bagangga. Scores of other towns in Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental, Surigao del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Leyte, the southern part of Negros and other provinces also suffered grave damage. “A great majority of the victims are poor peasants, farm workers, agricultural workers, fishermen and mining workers who have been left without any source of income,” added the CPP.
“Hundreds of thousands of people have no shelter and are suffering from a lack of food supply and other basic commodities and implements. There is almost complete absence of emergency medical care. The nearest health facilities are several hours away. Many of the road systems remain unpassable.” “The Aquino regime has acted indolently in the face of the urgency of the situation. The image of Aquino himself distributing small plastic bags of relief goods is utterly pathetic in the face of the complete destruction of the people’s livelihood.” “People demand much much more from the Aquino regime which continues to rake in billions of pesos of taxes from large-scale mining companies who have plundered the area and caused massive destruction to the environment, leaving the people starkly vulnerable to disasters. More than ten of the biggest mining companies operate in Compostela Valley.”
“The people are utterly dismayed that the Aquino regime is more concerned with controlling looting and imposing price controls when the people are confronted with the more urgent matter of having completely lost their livelihoods, of having no shelter and no means to rebuild their lives.” “In the face of their grave situation, the people denounce the failure of the Aquino regime to carry out immediate and large-scale action to uplift them from disaster.” “The hundreds of thousands of victims of the recent calamity should organize and rise up in protest and collectively assert their demands for immediate relief and long-term economic upliftment.”
“The revolutionary forces, units of the New People’s Army, local Party branches and local mass organizations in the disaster areas should immeditely organize simultaneous cooperative efforts to help each other rebuild homes and resume production as well as launch mass struggles to push their demands for land reform.” “They can carry forward the demand to put under immediate land reform the thousands of hectares of banana plantations in order to use the land to plant food and other crops beneficial to the people.” “At the same time, the people can amplify their demand for the military to put a stop to the Oplan Bayanihan campaign of suppression that has long resulted in killings and widespread violations of human rights in the area and which have caused grave economic hardships on the people.”
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/cpp-calls-on-storm-victims-to-rise-up-against-aquino-s-mediocre-response
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