Ceasefire holding as peace panels step up cooperation

From the Philippine Star (Oct 10): Ceasefire holding as peace panels step up cooperation

The ceasefire between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is still holding with increasing cooperation from both sides to prevent any conflict, government peace panel chairman Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said yesterday.

Ferrer told the resumption of the 41st formal exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that the government and MILF ceasefire panels continue to have increased cooperation in preventing untoward incidents and containing criminal activities.

“This alone is good reason for all those concerned about peace in Mindanao, why it is important to pursue this process between the GPH and the MILF: so that this temporary ceasefire becomes permanent, and in becoming permanent, the other, better things become possible; and so that those who continue to take the path of violence will be isolated, and the rest who commit to peace will coalesce to bring about a broad consensus on the way forward,” Ferrer said.

She said the government, MILF peace panels and their negotiating partners in Kuala Lumpur and stakeholders in the peace process will need to work together to finally attain peace.

“We carry a great burden borne out of equally great expectations. We know that it will require a lot of hard work, the appropriate strategies, the effective mechanisms and collaborative approaches, at the soonest possible time,” Ferrer said.

She said it has taken the government and the MILF peace panel a long while to put down in words and phrases the framework agreement annexes because they want to guarantee the integrity of the document.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/10/10/1243324/ceasefire-holding-peace-panels-step-cooperation

Nabbed rebel a ‘church worker’: Bayan

From the Visayan Daily Star (Oct10): Nabbed rebel a ‘church worker’: Bayan

The alleged rebel leader arrested in Bais City, Negros Oriental, is a church worker in Binalbagan, secretary general Christian Tuayon of Bayan-Negros insists.

Nilda Bertulano, alias Ka Frea, was intercepted Tuesday by police and military intelligence operatives in Brgy. Tamisu,Bais City. She has pending arrest warrants for murder and rebellion, on top of arson charges, that was able to post bail, after her arrest in La Carlota City, earlier.

In an interview with MBC Aksyon Radyo,Tuayon said the criminal complaints against Bertulano is part of the trumped-up charges filed by the military and police against leaders of progressive organizations, aimed to silence them from criticizing the government.

The military had linked Bertulano to the death of 1Lt. Archie Polenzo of the 62nd Infantry Battalion, who was killed in an encounter with suspected New People’s Army rebels in Sitio Aluyan, Brgy. Caduhaan. Cadiz City, a few years ago.

Tuayon, however, said in an interview with MBC Aksyon Radyo, that Bertulano, who was arrested in 2009, was still in jail, when Polenzo died the next year.

Other women charged for the death of Polenzo, who were arrested and cleared of charges, were Aniceta Rojo, also a church worker, militant groups claim, Sara Alvarez and Julia Tabat, alias Pinay, who died in an encounter last year in Candoni.

Earlier, Alvarez, a teacher, and Rojo also vehemently denied military and police claims, that they are members of the NPA.

Major Ray Tiongson of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, former rebels in Negros Oriental who have joined the mainstream society identified Bertulano as the commanding officer of the Front Operational Command of Larangang Gerilya 1 (FOC-LG1) that carried out various atrocities of the NPA operating in central Negros victimizing innocent civilians and destroying properties in the area.

Tiongson said the arson case filed against Bertulano stemmed from the burning of two transloading stations on March 16, 2008 in Brgy San Jose, Toboso, Negros Occidental where two cranes, four prime movers and a ten-wheeler truck of the Victorias Milling Corporation in Lopez Sugar Corp. were torched by the NPA.

He also claimed that Bertulano was among the NPA members who raided the La Libertad PNP station in Negros Oriental and carted away five M16 rifles, uniforms and personal belongings of the PNP personnel, on Nov. 2, 2008.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/October/10/topstory8.htm

MILF: Editorial -- Focus Needed

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Oct 8): Focus Needed

What we witness today in the Philippines is the offshoot of a system that entangles itself with its own cobweb. It is so crippling that no matter how good the head of state or government, he or she would not achieve much success in reforming the society or government.
  

The gridlock between and among the three branches of government has reached a point whereby its demerits (no system is perfect) lord it over the merits. The outcome would necessarily lead to more problems and complications. A weak leader will lead him/herself to submission or inactivity. In the end, he or she is one of the victims.

Add the problem with the MNLF particularly involving Nur Misuari. Add the long delayed signing of the GPH-MILF comprehensive peace agreement. Add the upsurge of violence by various groups including the BIFF, Abu Sayyaf, and other radical groups, who are never satisfied with any arrangement. They will always demand for the utopian state, which is not anywhere and will never happen. The ideal is always in the psyche’ of people. Add the threat of the New People’s Army. The sum total is a mounting national headache, nay threat?

We never doubted the strength of character of President Benigno Aquino III. But he has to stay focus especially in handling the corrupt officials, the MNLF issue particularly Nur Misuari, and the long-delayed signing of the GPH-MILF comprehensive peace agreement (CPA). The strength of a nation comes with the ability of its leaders to act and decide on the most pressing issues and manage the rest and wait for the proper time to settle them.

But this success does not come in handy. It comes with many other factors like good moral values, love of fellowmen, correct decision, and, we repeat, decisiveness. And this will be incomplete without popular support, which President Aquino still enjoys to this day.

For one, the GPH-MILF peace negotiation must be in the constant radar of the President. So much time has been used by the parties, but to blame the hard nature of the  issues like power-sharing and normalization as the cause of their inability to conclude the discussion early on is to play innocent of the other possible real reasons. We cannot blame the facilitation, because so far the Malaysian facilitator is discharging his responsibility exceptionally well.  Rigidity is surely one of the reasons. We do not want to speculate on the other reasons.

Similarly, the MNLF problem should be handled consistently and appropriately. Allowing one man or few people to hijack what is best for the group is highly unfair and creates more complications in the future. The entire leadership of the MNLF should determine amongst themselves what should be done and what is good for them as a whole.

Leadership is not the franchise of one man. A leader is only good for a certain period of time, after that, he has to go either by his own free will or circumstances will force him out. Of the two, always outside forces determine the fate of leaders. Voluntary exit from power is so difficult to make, because power comes with it resources and other privileges.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/596-focus-needed

MILF: UNYPAD Restructures its SOCSARGEN Chapter

From the MILF Website (Oct 9): UNYPAD Restructures its SOCSARGEN Chapter



The United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) restructured its SOCSARGEN provincial and university chapters last September 29, 2013. 
  

It was held at the Muslim Students Association (MUSA) Park, Mindanao State University (MSU), General Santos City Campus where close to fifty students and youth leaders participated.

Tu Alfonso, UNYPAD National Vice President for Internal Affairs disclosed that the MSU – General Santos is the seat of UNYPAD school-based chapters in this part of the region.

 “This SOCSARGEN provincial chapter of the organization covers the provinces of South Cotabato, Sarangani and the City of General Santos,” he added.

Dats Magon, gave updates on the status of the GPH – MILF negotiations and UNYPAD’s role in monitoring the GPH – MILF peace process.

“The inclusion of Samsudin Amella, UNYPAD former Secretary – General, as one of the observers representing Civil Society Organizations (CSO’s) in the 40th Exploratory Talks last September 9, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is one of the roles played by the organization, Magon said.”

“His presence there was a milestone achieved by the organization, and considered to be very important as he could help in informing the communities about the development in the peace talks”, he added.

In his presentation, Anwar Upahm, UNYPAD National Vice President for External Affairs, explained and emphasized the need for a strong youth organization in SOCSARGEN areas.

“In the past, the Moros had control over these areas especially General Santos (originally named Rajah Buayan City) but now the Bangsamoro in the city are becoming powerless, and  multi-national corporations continue to enrich themselves to the extent of usurping Moro and Indigenous People’s lands but there were no legal actions  made to stop them,” Upahm lamented.

“These conditions only prove that the Moros have weak voice in the city; they are not heard and such a situation should be changed,” he further added.

Yusoph Lumambas, UNYPAD Secretary-General, centered his message on the importance of education, which inspired and motivated the youth in maximizing their time in seeking more knowledge. 

“You have to enrich yourselves with knowledge as it would contribute a lot in the future Bangsamoro Government,” he stressed.

“As you continue to walk down the streets in search for genuine peace in the region and freedom for the Bangsamoro, your knowledge will be more enriched as you will be gaining vast experiences for they are your best teachers”, he added.

“Organizing communities is a challenging task for us, but we have to be committed and determined in doing it given the difficulty of the situations currently faced by the Muslims especially the youth in these areas,” said Gringo Makiling, newly installed MSU General Santos Chairman, in his closing remarks.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/598-unypad-restructures-its-socsargen-chapter

MILF: Philippine military shells MILF bases despite truce deal, peace talks

From the MILF Website (Oct 10): Philippine military shells MILF bases despite truce deal, peace talks

The Philippines’ largest Muslim rebel group negotiating peace with the government has accused the military on Tuesday of attacking its forces in the southern province of Basilan, the Mindanao Examiner reported on October 8, 2013.
  

Von Al Haq, a rebel spokesman, said troops fired cannons on MILF positions in the village of Ulitan in Ungkaya Pukan town. He said troops, under Colonel Carlito Galvez, attacked several rebel bases sparking a fire fight.

He said it was not the first time that Galvez, commander of army forces in Basilan province, targeted the MILF which has signed a cease-fire agreement with the Aquino government to allow peaceful negotiations aimed at ending decades of bloody fighting in the southern Philippines.

“The military attacked our forces again and fighting erupted because of the military assault,” Al Haq said.

It was not immediately known if there were casualties in the fighting, but the army said the military operation targeted the Abu Sayyaf, a small, but the most notorious rebel group blamed for the spate of terrorism and kidnappings for ransom in the troubled province.

Just on Monday, the army said troops clashed with Abu Sayyaf rebels headed by Juhair Aliman in Basilan and killed two fighters, but two soldiers were also slain in the violence. It said the operation was launched to free the circumferential road from lawless elements.

But Al Haq said the military operation was launched against the MILF in the guise of pursuing Abu Sayyaf rebels. “As in the past cases, military operations were directed at the MILF in the guise of running after the Abu Sayyaf. We have bases in Basilan and these bases are protected by the cease-fire agreement, but spoilers of peace are targeting us. The military violated the cease-fire accord,” he said.

The MILF said military shelling also hit civilian communities and villagers have fled to safer areas.

Abbas Salung, chairman of the MILF Cease-fire Committee based in Basilan province, said he sought an immediate ceasefire with the military, but “it would seem the Colonel Galvez was recalcitrant.”

“We could not understand why the attack was irresponsibly conducted against our forces and the shelling not being stopped. The government forces assaulted our troops and bombarded civilian communities. These are utter violations of the government and MILF ceasefire accord and agreement on the civilian protection, human rights and international humanitarian laws by Philippine Army troops,” Salung said.

He said Galvez has undermined the cease-fire accord. “This is not the first time that Colonel Galvez undermined the cease-fire accord and the primacy of the peace process between the government and MILF,” Salung said.

The MILF said it will file a protest with the government cease-fire body against Galvez.

In a related story, Luwaran source from the island province of Basilan also reported the   skirmishes between Moro rebels headed by a certain Commander Malista and Army Scout Rangers at around 1:00PM on October 8 at Barangay Ulitan in Ungkaya Pukan town. There was no available figure on the number of casualties on both sides.

In the previous fire fight at Upper Cabengbeng, Sumisip, Basilan last October 7, one MILF fighter named Kursi Umangkat was martyred when the group of Commander Muhmin Umangkat engaged PA Scout Rangers that raided their camp in violation of the ceasefire accord between the government and the MILF. The Basilan crisis forced the evacuation of 600 residents from Barangay Ulitan and another 300 residents from Barangay Tongbato, both from the town of Ungkaya Pukan.

Meanwhile, the right to free travel by residents of Basilan is now being suppressed by both the AFP and PNP especially those having no valid identifications card.

Passengers have to pass through four stages of strict checks before they are allowed to board. Moro passengers experienced tough scrutiny and are allegedly required to show their birth certificates with names of their parents being asked by security officers.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/599-philippine-military-shells-milf-bases-despite-truce-deal-peace-talks

Govt to continue talking with MNLF despite Nur case

From GMA News (Oct 9): Govt to continue talking with MNLF despite Nur case

The government will continue to hold talks with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) despite the filing of rebellion charges and the issuance of arrest warrant against its founder Nur Misuari.

"Our commitment to engage with the MNLF is there," presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said at a press conference Wednesday.

He issued the statement even as the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed rebellion charges and violation of the International Humanitarian Law (Republic Act 9851) against Misuari and 60 other MNLF leaders and members for last month's assault on Zamboanga City.

President Benigno Aquino III has earlier said Misuari may also face charges of illegal possession of explosives after a raid on the MNLF leader's house in Zamboanga City yielded suspected components of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Despite this, Lacierda said that the government is still "determined" to pursue the tripartite review of the implementation of the 1996 peace agreement with the MNLF. "We are committed to push through with the Tripartite Review Process with the OIC (Organization of Islamic Conference) and with MNLF."

The MNLF and government panels were supposed to hold another meeting in Indonesia last month but Misuari asked for its postponement amid the attack on Zamboanga.

The attack came after Misuari claimed that the government had disregarded the MNLF and abrogated the agreement, allegedly prompting them to declare independence. The government has denied this.

"The 1996 Final Peace Agreement stands. It stands. We honor that peace agreement regardless of who the signatory was," said Lacierda.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/330137/news/nation/govt-to-continue-talking-with-mnlf-despite-nur-case

MNLF spokesman: Nur Misuari, Habier Malik won't surrender

From GMA News (Oct 10): MNLF spokesman: Nur Misuari, Habier Malik won't surrender

Just like Moro National Liberation Front commander Habier Malik, MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari will not surrender even after warrants for their arrest have been issued.

“I don't think he (Misuari) is going to surrender because ang mga rebolusyonaryo po ay hindi nila ugali 'yung mag-aklas pagkatapos [ay] mag-surrender. Malimit po tatapusin nila 'yung kanilang balak,” Reverend Absalom Cerveza, MNLF Misuari faction spokesman, said in an interview on GMA News' Unang Hirit Thursday morning.

Cerveza also said he last spoke with Misuari “the other day.”

Arrest warrants were issued against Misuari, Malik and two others by a local court in Zamboanga City for placing the city under siege for almost a month, causing the death of over 200 people – civilians, soldiers and rebels.

Cerveza said the effects of the crisis were “unfortunate” but said the MNLF had a valid cause aligned with valid reasons.

He also confirmed that Misuari whom he last talked with on Tuesday was still in an undisclosed place in the Philippines.

Cerveza said Misuari told him over the phone, “Wala akong magawa kung ano ang gustong gawin ng gobyerno. Gagawin ko rin kung ano 'yung kaya kong gawin.”

When asked if Misuari is willing to have his case heard in Manila for security reasons, Cerveza said there wasn't much they could do and that ultimately it's the court that will decide their fate.

“'Pag nahuli ka, wala kang magagawa kung saan ka man lilitisin...  Bahala na 'yung mga abogado,” he said adding, “Wherever... kung mahuli.”

Cerverza also confirmed that Malik, the elusive MNLF ground commander believed to have led the attack in Zamboanga City on September 9, was still alive.

“Yes, he's much alive,” he said, adding that he last talked to Malik four days ago.

According to Cerveza, Malik already escaped government forces in Zamboanga City.

“Wala na... He's in some place na hindi natin puwede sabihin,” he said.

The encounters between government forces and the MNLF lasted for three weeks and claimed over 200 lives.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin announced the crisis officially over on Sept. 28, but clearing operations have continued to root out MNLF rebels still holed up in the city.

Misuari in Sulu?

In an interview on "News To Go" on Thursday morning Zamboanga City mayor Beng Climaco said, "I think [Misuari] is in Sulu, so it is the military authorities that are taking over."

"But definitely, the city of Zamboanga extends whatever we can in terms of personnel to really bring about justice to the people... to those who have died, those who have lost homes, those who are still suffering double in the tragedy.

Asked if she favors the idea that the case against Misuari and his group be tried in Metro Manila, Climaco said, "Definitely, we welcome it because we have the detainees [captured MNLF rebels] here right now in San Ramon and as well as jails in Zamboanga. The residents do not feel comfortable with them being here. And I have written a petition to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima so that the [trials] will be held outside the city of Zamboanga.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/330225/news/nation/mnlf-spokesman-nur-misuari-habier-malik-won-t-surrender

US emergency message: 'Credible threats' in Mindanao

From ABS-CBN (Oct 10): US emergency message: 'Credible threats' in Mindanao

The United States Embassy issued Wednesday an “emergency message”, warning citizens of a “series of credible security threats” in southern Mindanao.

In a message posted on its website on October 10, the embassy said the threats have been identified specifically in Region 11 (Davao Region), Region 12 (North and South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani), and in Maguindanao.

The message said: “Individuals associated with known extremist and insurgent groups are believed to have been conducting surveillance on a number of public locations in these areas, as possible targets of interest.”

The embassy said these threats from extremists may come in conventional or non-conventional ways. It added both official and private interests are targeted.

The targets may include: high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and other destinations.

The embassy said the US government is placing restrictions on the movement of its citizens.

“The embassy advises all US citizens residing in southern Mindanao to exercise extreme caution and re-evaluate their personal safety situation,” the message read.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/10/13/us-emergency-message-credible-threats-mindanao

Japanese PM confirms 10 ships for Philippine coast guard

From ABS-CBN (Oct 10): Japanese PM confirms 10 ships for Philippine coast guard

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Wednesday confirmed Japan's plans to support Manila's capacity-building efforts for its coast guard amid increasing tensions between the Philippines and China over their overlapping claims in the South China Sea, Japanese officials said.

Abe told Philippine President Benigno Aquino that the process is under way toward swiftly providing 10 patrol ships to the Philippines as unveiled during his visit to Manila in July, the officials said.

The two leaders held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of a series of summits related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Abe expressed concern about what he calls "moves to change the status quo by force," noting that disputes between countries should be resolved peacefully, according to the officials.

The leaders of Japan and the Philippines also agreed that the two countries should advance financial and economic cooperation.

Abe welcomed ongoing consultations between the two countries for expanding a bilateral currency swap agreement, an initiative aimed at deepening economic ties with the fast-growing Southeast Asian economy.

During a one-on-one meeting with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra earlier in the afternoon, Abe expressed willingness to cooperate with Thailand in developing high-speed rail infrastructure in the Southeast Asian country, the officials said.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/10/09/13/japanese-pm-confirms-10-ships-philippine-coast-guard

'The first to respond, the last to leave'

From Rappler (Oct 10): 'The first to respond, the last to leave'



FIRST CASUALTY: Navy Petty Officer Jose Audrey Bañares of the elite Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG). Photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy

He was with the elite unit that first clashed with rebels off the waters of Zamboanga City. He would be the first casualty of a bloody siege that took at least 3 weeks to end.

Navy Petty Officer Jose Audrey Bañares of the elite Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) was deployed to guard the coast of Zamboanga City Sunday afternoon, September 8.

Bañares was among the best, one of only 400 members of the Philippine Navy trained to conduct what the millitary would call maritime interdiction — the ability to destroy or stop enemy forces en route to the battle area. He's the equivalent of a US Navy Seal. (The Philippine Navy has a total of 20,000 troops.)

Sometimes it’s the Abu Sayyaf that the NAVSOG is after. That day it was a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that, according to intelligence reports, was going to attack the city.

Bañares and his unit spotted the rebels at 1:45 am on September 9 between the waters of Basilan and Zamboanga City. They clashed. Bañares, who was manning a machine gun mounted on an inflatable gunboat, was killed in the first exchange of gunfire. He was 39.

Six other soldiers were wounded. Seven MNLF were reportedly killed although their bodies were not recovered.

“We are the first to respond and we are the last to leave. It is our operational doctrine,” said navy spokesperson Commander Gregory Fabic. Bañares was one of 2 NAVSOG killed in Zamboanga.

JSOG: Command and control

At sunrise on September 9, the rebels marched towards the city hall to hoist their flag and symbolically declare their independence. They forced residents to join them, took them as hostages, and shot those who tried to resist, according to various accounts.

In Barangay Sta Barbara, they were blocked by government troops. Thus began the standoff that shut down the city for 3 weeks.

READ: Bungled chances in Zamboanga City



BOODLE FIGHT: Armed Forces Chief Gen Emmanuel Bautista joins operating troops of the Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) in a boodle fight. JSOG took the lead role in the standoff in Zamboanga City. Photo courtesy of the AFP PAO.

The crisis that lasted 20 days required the full might of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Over 3,000 combined forces of the navy, air force, and army worked together to fight a unique war in an urban, populated terrain, a battlefield they're not used to in western Mindanao.

In the end, the siege killed 24 government troops — 19 from the military, 5 from the police — and wounded 183. On the part of the MNLF, government data show a total of 183 killed.

At sea, the navy set up a blockade to prevent other rebels from reinforcing the MNLF units already in the city, and to stop the attackers from leaving. On the ground, the army tried to contain the gunmen in 5 barangays and eventually cornered them along the boundary of Sta Barbara and Sta Catalina where the MNLF remnants made their last stand.

The Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) led the assault against the MNLF in Zamboanga City. It is the AFP’s anti-terrorism strike force which combines its elite forces — the Army Light Reaction Battalion, the Navy Special Operations Unit-8 of NAVSOG, and the Air Force Special Operations Wing.

But the last to leave the combat zone were the Philippine Marines. They played a key role in the 2000 government takeover of Camp Abubakar, the formidable headquarters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which is now in peace talks with the Aquino administration.

In Zamboanga City, the Marines guarded the shores and the mangroves, which the MNLF used to enter the city and escape from it. They lost 3 of their comrades in the standoff.

Air Force: Strikes, rapid deployment

The air force first dispatched its Huey combat utility helicopters and the MG-520 light attack helicopters for reconnaissance flights, tactical lifts to bring troops to the combat zone, and persuasion flights.

When the rebels showed equal tenacity in the first 24 hours of the siege, the military was forced to bring in more troops and supplies from other areas through the C-130s.

The air force now has 3 working C-130 cargo planes that are used to bring in troops and military hardware. If the siege happened a year ago, the air force would have had to live with only one operational C-130.



AIR BOMB: 2 MG520 choppers drop bombs in a fishpond at Barangay Rio Hondo, where suspected MNLF leader Habier Malik was reportedly hiding. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

The pilots worked double time. On Day 2 of the crisis, September 10, President Benigno Aquino III declared an "overwhelming force" in Zamboanga City.

During the early days of the siege, only the air force's planes and helicopters could fly into Zamboanga. Flight paths were changed to make sure the planes didn't fly over the combat zone. They couldn't risk the rebels shooting them down.

The risk was real. Choppers securing the President's plane were shot at when he flew into Zamboanga, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II said in one of his press conferences during the crisis.

While rapid deployment was the most crucial role of the air force, the pilots also provided close air support and joined the gunfight. The 14th Strike Wing was responsible for the air strikes.



BURNED HOUSES: In the end, over 10,000 houses were damaged inside the Zamboanga City combat zone. File photo courtesy of the Philippine Air Force

Army’s Light Reaction Battalion

On the ground, the terrain proved tough for battle-tested troops used to fighting rebels in the jungles and remote, uphill areas.

The villages occupied by MNLF rebels were populated with thousands of residents who live in shanties, own small shops and work in buildings. The rebels were shooting from rooftops, windows and back alleys. Their biggest defense were the residents trapped in the battle zone.

It was a conflict that required the kills of the Light Reaction Battalion (LRB), the army’s lead counter-terrorist unit composed of Scout Rangers and Special Forces. As the name connotes, they move with speed and carry only the most essential weapons with them.

Trained by the Americans after the September 11, 2001 attacks, the unit started as a Light Reaction Company of two dozen troops. They are trained to clear buildings. They are experts in counter-sniper tactics. They can fight in total darkness using modern gadgets and equipment. About 300 of them were deployed to Zamboanga City.

“The terrain requires different approaches. There are a lot of places to hide. There are many alleys and many walls. You don’t even know that your enemy is on the other side of the fence,” explained AFP spokesperson Lt Col Ramon Zagala, who himself belongs to the Philippine Army's Special Forces.

The LRB troops got the honor of finishing the fight but also the tragedy of losing the most — 12 of them.



FALLEN SOLDIER: The widow and child of 1Lt Francis Damian. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

Army Scout Ranger 1Lt Francis Damian was one of the officers killed during the operation against the MNLF. A sniper bullet pierced through his helmet, damaging his skull. He was brought to the hospital but died later.

The MNLF snipers, who were able to take strategic positions inside the combat zone, delayed military operations and claimed many soldiers' lives.

That and the burning, Zagala said. Fires repeatedly forced the soldiers to retreat. Over 10,000 houses were damaged, according to government data.

Mission accomplished?

Despite the cost and the loss, the military maintained it's mission accomplished for them.

“In the history of the AFP, this is among our greatest achievements as a military institution,” Armed Forces chief of staff Gen Emmanuel Bautista told reporters.

His father, the late Brig Gen Teodulfo Bautista, was killed in 1977 by MNLF members when he chose to meet with them — unarmed — in Patikul, Sulu to discuss a possible ceasefire.

"Personally, I did not allow that to cloud my decisions, and I did not want to be at the forefront [during the operations]. If you noticed, I was very low key." It's his father's 36th death anniversary on October 10.

On Day 19 of the crisis, September 27, all hostages were accounted for. According to military statistics, 195 hostages were rescued, two were killed, and 7 were wounded.

"By any standards, I think that is a good accomplishment on the part of the military," Bautista said.

The thousands of Zamboangueños uprooted from their homes and now crammed in evacuation centers in the city would probaby disagree.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/40831-navy-elite-zamboanga-city-crisis

Peace panels back in KL for power-sharing deal

From Rappler (Oct 9): Peace panels back in KL for power-sharing deal



'FINAL STAGES.' Government peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, Malaysian Facilitator Datu Abdul Ghafar Tengku bin Mohamed and MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal. Photo by OPAPP

The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will try to close a deal on how power will be shared between the national government and the proposed Bangsamoro political entity as they hold the 41st round of talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The negotiations, which began Tuesday, October 8, are being conducted as Zamboanga City recovers from the bloody siege by rebel forces associated with a faction of the MILF's rival group, the Moro National Liberation Front. READ: Bungled chances in Zamboanga City

MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal recognized in his opening statement what the MNLF achieved for the "long and protracted struggle" of the Moro people when it signed a peace agreement with the Ramos government in 1996.

"The MILF has never been remiss in this recognition," Iqbal said. "This is the reason the MILF had made a stand that it wanted the GRP-MNLF peace pact fully implemented and what it is negotiating with government is what is lacking in this agreement, which is diverse and compelling. And more importantly, the fruits of this current endeavor will redound to the benefits of everybody, including the MNLF."

The MNLF staged the Zamboanga siege after it felt sidelined in the ongoing peace process. READ: MNLF, MILF and 2 peace agreements

Both the government and the MILF have maintained that what the MNLF wants to renegotiate will already be addressed by the current peace process with the MILF.

"Specifically, that arrangement must be better than what the MNLF had achieved, lest they will laugh and mock us no end. More importantly, that agreement will be acceptable to our people and will lead to solving the Bangsamoro question. Short of this, our efforts will be in vain," Iqbal said.

In this round of talks, the government and the MILF will also continue discussing details of the annex on normalization, which includes the sensitive issues of decommissioning of arms and disposition of armed forces.

'FULL AUTONOMY.' Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front negotiating panel. File photo by OPAPP

Refrain from legalism

Both sides had aimed to sign the annexes on power sharing and normalization – the last two documents needed to be completed before the final peace pact can be signed – during the 10-day talks held in September, the longest under the Aquino administration.

But the talks started slow after both sides moved to include new details in the annexes. The government wanted to specify items on concurrent or shared powers and exclusive powers of the Bangsamoro government from mere listings to paragraphs.

The MILF also wanted to introduce new provisions regarding the structure of the "ministerial form of government," or how the future Bangsamoro government will take shape.

In a ministerial form of government, people elect members of the legislature, who in turn elect their Chief Minister. It's a deviation from the current system in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) where members of the legislature and executive branch of government are elected by registered voters.

How this ministerial form of government will take shape, however, won't be defined in full by the final peace pact, government peace panel chair Miriam Coronel Ferrer said in an earlier public forum at the University of the Philippines. It will be fleshed out in the Bangsamoro Basic Law instead.

Ferrer also said the government spent a great deal of last month's session explaining to the MILF that signing a peace pact with the executive branch does not necessarily guarantee that the final peace agreement or the Basic Law will immediately pass the scrutiny of Congress and the Supreme Court.

In her opening statement, Ferrer said: "Indeed, if it has taken us a long while to put down in words and phrases in the Annexes, it is because we want to guarantee the integrity of the outcome."

Iqbal urged both panels "not to engage in too much legalism" to fast-track the talks, and be more flexible in exploring solutions.

Overprotective state?

"Most of the answers to this question are very clear to all of us," Iqbal said. "But what is not openly discussed or admitted is the characteristic nature of states to be overprotective of its powers. I dare say here, almost without exception, that states are selfish in sharing their powers and resources to sub-entities even to the point of depriving other people of...their inherent right to self-determination.

"On the part of the MILF, I think it cannot be faulted for 'asking too much,' or... asking the moon to fall, because what we are only seeking in this negotiation is way below what used to be enjoyed by our forefathers," he added.

FACILITATOR. Where the talks are being held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Photo by Rappler

Why the peace talks with the MILF will continue

There's no turning back for both the government and the MILF.

And if surveys are to be believed, at least 70% of Filipinos continue to be supportive of the GPH-MILF peace talks.

"It is evident from these survey results that the key question to many people following up this negotiation is not so much IF we will have a peace agreement, but when," Ferrer said. "This impatience and the concern are also driven by the rise in violence perpetrated by those who want this process to fail."

As the government remains committed to talking peace with the MILF, more than 50 cases of attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a breakaway group of the MILF, were recorded.

But the ceasefire between the government and the MILF continues to hold.

"This alone is good reason for all those concerned about peace in Mindanao, why it is important to pursue this process between the GPH and the MILF: so that this temporary ceasefire becomes permanent, and in becoming permanent, the other, better things become possible; and so that those who continue to take the path of violence will be isolated, and the rest who commit to peace will coalesce to bring about a broad consensus on the way forward," Ferrer said.

Other government officials are joining the panels for this round. Muntinlupa Rep Rodolfo Biazon, a former armed forces chief of staff, attended the opening ceremonies. Biazon joined the government negotiating team during their Navarra, Spain tour last year to learn more about autonomous governments in the country.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles and Ifugao Rep Teddy Brawner Baguilat Jr, as well as "one or more" Cabinet Secretaries and another lawmaker are expected to follow, Ferrer said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/special-coverage/peacetalks/40912-41st-round-gph-milf-talks-power-sharing

Kerry to push China, SE Asia to discuss sea dispute

From InterAksyon (Oct 10): Kerry to push China, SE Asia to discuss sea dispute



US Secretary of State John Kerry delivers his opening speech the 1st ASEAN-US Summit in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei October 9, 2013. REUTERS/Ahim Rani

US Secretary of State John Kerry will press Southeast Asian leaders and China to discuss the South China Sea dispute at an Asian summit, a senior US official said on Wednesday, despite Beijing's reluctance to address the issue in public forums.

Kerry arrived in Brunei on Wednesday for an annual East Asia Summit (EAS) and talks with leaders of Southeast Asian nations and, separately, met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the sidelines of the summit.

A US official said Kerry would urge Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states to continue to work "for enhanced coherence and unity" to strengthen their position with China in negotiating a code of conduct for the South China Sea.

Obama last week cancelled his scheduled trip to the summit because of the US government shutdown, raising concern that Washington would lose some of its influence in countering China's assertive claims over the South China Sea and in maintaining its strategic "rebalancing" toward Asia.

"That rebalance is a commitment, it is there to stay and will continue into the future," Kerry told ASEAN leaders in opening remarks shortly after arriving. He began his speech by apologizing that Obama was not able to attend but emphasized the US commitment to the region.

"I assure you that these events in Washington are a moment in politics and not more than that," Kerry said. "The partnership that we share with ASEAN remains a top priority for the Obama administration."

China has resisted discussing the territorial issue with the 10-member ASEAN, preferring to settle disputes in the South China Sea through negotiations with individual claimants. It has also frowned at what it sees as US meddling in a regional issue.

"The Chinese consistently indicate their view that 'difficult issues' that might fall outside the comfort zone of any member need not be discussed," the US official said.

"That is not a view that is held by the US, or, I believe, many if not most of the EAS member states, but we will find out."

Conflicting claims

The conflicting claims over the South China Sea pit an increasingly assertive Beijing against smaller Asian nations that look to support from the United States.

The row is one of the region's biggest flashpoints amid China's military build-up and the US strategic "pivot" back to Asia signaled by the Obama administration in 2011.

China claims almost the entire oil- and gas-rich South China Sea, overlapping with claims from Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam.

The United States says it is neutral but has put pressure on China and other claimants to end the dispute through talks.

Kerry would emphasize the role of the United States as "a longstanding champion of security and stability in the region, and as an advocate of the rule of law, peaceful solution of disputes, and freedom of navigation, and the principle of unimpeded lawful commerce", the senior official said.

Nevertheless, Washington will be hamstrung at the summit because of Obama's absence.

"I'm sure the Chinese don't mind that I'm not there right now," the US president said at a news conference in Washington on Tuesday. "There are areas where we have differences and they can present their point of view and not get as much push back as if I were there."

As Li and Kerry met for talks on the sidelines of the summit some tensions were evident.

"I'm sure that we are all committed to living with each other in harmony and discussing jointly those issues of common interest," Li said. "While China is the largest developing country in the world, while the United States is the largest developed one in the world."

Li's remark later that the US and Chinese economies were at "different stages of development" prompted Kerry to respond: "I know you know we think you're a little more developed than you may want to say you are, but nevertheless we have the same responsibilities."

Appearance of dialogue

In an apparent softening of its stance, China agreed this year to hold "consultations" with ASEAN on a code of conduct (CoC) for disputes in the South China Sea.

But some diplomats and analysts say China may be giving the appearance of dialogue without committing to anything substantive, aiming to drag the talks out for years while it consolidates its expansive maritime claims.

"It's a face-saving mechanism to show the world, to show ASEAN, that China is committed to come up with a CoC but the consultations are designed to delay formal negotiations on a binding code," said one diplomat from an ASEAN nation.

However, Li said the code of conduct talks last month were a success and China would be willing to build on that, although he did not give any specifics.

"We've always agreed that South China Sea disputes should be dealt with in a direct way, and to seek a resolution through negotiations and talks," Li said in a speech at the summit.

He, however, maintained China was "unshakable in its resolve to uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity".

The dispute has soured relations between China and US ally the Philippines, in particular. The two countries have been involved in naval standoffs and China has effectively occupied a shoal 124 nautical miles off the Philippine coast.

Manila is taking part in the code of conduct talks but has angered China by launching an arbitration case with the United Nations on the validity of China's claims.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino stressed the importance of the rule of law to the region's economic well-being in a speech on Wednesday, calling for a return to the naval status quo that existed at the time a 2002 non-binding agreement on maritime conduct was signed by China and ASEAN.

"Our development as a region cannot be realized in an international environment where the rule of law does not exist," Aquino said. (Additional reporting by James Pomfret)

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/72459/kerry-to-push-china-se-asia-to-discuss-sea-dispute

Taiwan risks tensions with survey of disputed Spratlys

From InterAksyon (Oct 10): Taiwan risks tensions with survey of disputed Spratlys



Taiwanese warships off Taiping island in the disputed Spratly Islands. AFP PHOTO

Taiwan has conducted a natural gas and oil survey in the disputed Spratly Islands, a legislator said Wednesday, the latest in a string of moves that risk stoking tensions over the South China Sea archipelago.

A team of technicians from the state-run CPC Corporation, Taiwan sailed to Taiping, the island in the chain that is controlled by Taipei, on Monday, legislator Lin Yu-fang's office said in a statement.

"They completed the survey on Tuesday afternoon and were on their way back to Taiwan escorted by a naval fleet" composed of a dock landing ship and a frigate, the statement said.

Taiwan risks ratcheting up regional tensions over the Spratlys with the move. The islands are also claimed entirely or in part by Brunei, China, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

All the claimants except Brunei have troops based on the group of more than 100 islets, reefs and atolls, which are spread across a vast area but have a total land mass of less than five square kilometers (two square miles).

A senior assistant to Lin told AFP the step is expected to be followed by more sensitive surveys of the water in the vicinity, declining to provide details.

The geological survey came after the Taiwanese government granted the company permission in 2011 to explore for oil and natural gas in the waters off Taiping.

Taiwan maintains a small coastguard garrison on Taiping, 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from its southern coast, and earlier this year sent new mortar and anti-aircraft systems to the islet, angering Vietnam.

Taipei also said it plans to build a dock big enough for warships in the disputed archipelago, an upgrade from the existing pier that caters only to small patrol boats.
Taiwan built a 1,150-meter (3,800-foot) runway on Taiping in mid-2006, despite protests from other countries.

The Philippines and Vietnam have been strengthening their military deployment in the area after complaining that China is becoming increasingly aggressive in asserting its own claims.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/72456/taiwan-risks-tensions-with-survey-of-disputed-spratlys

MNLF faction ignores arrest warrants against chairman

From InterAksyon (Oct 10): MNLF faction ignores arrest warrants against chairman



FILE PHOTO OF NUR MISUARI

The spokesman of Nurulaji “Nur” Misuari, founder of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), on Thursday said they do not recognize the validity of the warrants issued by a court for the arrest of their leader and several others over the recent bloody and destructive fighting between MNLF fighters and government forces in Zamboanga City.

“Hindi namin ito pinapansin (We don’t pay attention to it),” said lawyer Emmanuel Fontanilla in an interview over dzMM.

MNLF fighters loyal to Misuari went into some coastal barangays in Zamboanga City on the night of September 8 and clashes with responding government forces soon erupted.

The MNLF, said another Misuari spokesman Abasolom Cervesa, was in the city to forward their “war for independence.” But their attempt to seize control over the city hall and to march in the streets with their firearms were foiled by soldiers and policemen.

The fighting lasted almost three weeks, killed over 200 people, wounded more than 200 others, and displaced almost 120,000 civilians from their homes.

Zamboanga City Judge Eric Klumba of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) 9th Judicial Region Branch 13 issued warrants for rebellion charge (violation of Article 134 of the Revised Penal Code) and two warrants for crimes against humanity (violation of Section 4(c) subsections (1), (7), and 20 in relation to Section 7, second paragraph of the Republic Act 9851 otherwise known as “the Philippine Act on Crimes against International humanitarian law, genocide, and other Crimes against Humanity” and Section 4(b) subsection (1) and (3) of same law) against Misuari.

The issued warrants, a copy of which was emailed to Interaksyon.com by the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9), are dated September 8.

Also ordered arrested were Ustadz Habier Malik, ground commander in the siege, Bas Arki, Assamin Hussin, among others.

The charges are non-bailable criminal offenses.

Fontanilla said Misuari and the others will remain in hiding to arrest.

“Normal [na] magtatago ka dahil huhulihin ka< (It’s normal to hide when you’re about to be arrested),” he said.

Earlier, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said her office has been working with the courts for the transfer of all the arrested MNLF members to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Bicutan, Taguig City from Zamboanga City.

De Lima said they have also asked the higher courts to transfer the hearing of the suspects’ cases to Manila.

In 2001, a rebellion charge was filed against Misuari and some others in connection with the Cabatangan siege, also in Zamboanga, that killed dozens of people. The case was filed and litigated before a Makati court. But in 2007 the case was dismissed. Misuari’s case of anti-terrorism was also dropped by Malacanang.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/72473/mnlf-faction-ignores-arrest-warrants-against-chairman

2 MNLF stragglers killed in Zamboanga City

From the Mindanao Examiner (Oct 10): 2 MNLF stragglers killed in Zamboanga City

Security forces killed two Moro National Liberation Front rebels in a clash Thursday during a clearing operation in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines, officials said.

Officials said the two bearded stragglers were armed with an M14 rifle and a machete when they attacked a group of soldiers and policemen in the village of Santa Catalina, scene of deadly clashes between security and rebel forces led by Ustadz Khabir Malik last month.

One of the slain rebels was carrying an identification card bearing the name of Nasser Dawali, of Sulu province. 

Police have launched a manhunt for Misuari, who is being blamed for deadly attacks on September 9 that left over 400 people dead and wounded in Zamboanga. The fighting lasted for three weeks and resulted in a humanitarian crisis.

About 400 separatist rebels stormed villages and seized over 200 civilians and used them as shield against security forces as they tried, but failed to fly MNLF flags at City Hall. At the end of the street battles, over 200 rebels had been captured or surrendered to state forces and are also facing criminal charges.

Judge Eric Elumba signed the arrest warrant for Misuari and three of his lieutenants – Bas Arki, Assamin Hussin and Malik – and other people implicated in the attacks.

Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, a regional police spokesman, who has a copy of the arrest warrant, said Misuari’s group is facing rebellion and other string of criminal charges, including violation of the Republic Act Number 9851 or the Philippines Act on Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other crimes against humanity.

Just early this month, police raided the bungalow of Misuari in Zamboanga City and recovered explosives and anti-government propaganda, but failed to capture the former Libyan firebrand, who is believe to be hiding in Sulu archipelago and is reportedly planning to escape to Malaysia or Indonesia and travel to a Muslim country to seek political asylum. Malik also escaped a massive dragnet in Zamboanga and could have rejoined Misuari.

Misuari signed a peace agreement with Manila in September 1996 ending decades of bloody fighting in the southern region. After the peace agreement was signed, Misuari became the governor of Muslim autonomous region.

But many former rebels were disgruntled with the accord, saying, the government failed to comply with some of its provisions and uplift their standards of living. They accused the government of failing to develop the war-torn areas in the South, which remain in mired in poverty, heavily militarized and dependent financially on Manila.

In November 2001, on the eve of the elections in the autonomous region, Misuari accused the government of reneging on the peace agreement, and his followers launched a new rebellion in Sulu and Zamboanga City, where more than 100 people were killed.

Misuari escaped by boat to Malaysia, but was arrested there and deported back to the Philippines. He was eventually freed in 2008 after Manila dropped all charges against him for lack of sufficient evidence.

Despite his fiery accusations against the government and even while in jail, Misuari still ran thrice for governor in Sulu province, but terribly lost all elections. And in May this year, he also ran for governor in the Muslim autonomous region, bragging his aspiration is supported by millions of Muslims, but he ended up losing again.

 

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/10/2-mnlf-stragglers-killed-in-zamboanga.html

Philippines launches manhunt for MNLF chieftain Nur Misuari

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Oct 9): Philippines launches manhunt for MNLF chieftain Nur Misuari





A screen grab of MNLF chieftain Nur Misuari, right, and Ustadz Khabir Malik, during a plenum in southern Philippines. And a photocopy of an arrest warrant for Misuari's group released by the police to the Mindanao Examiner regional newspaper. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

Philippine authorities have launched a manhunt for former rebel chieftain Nur Misuari who is being blamed for deadly attacks that left over 400 people dead and wounded in Zamboanga City.

A local court has ordered the arrest of Misuari, leader of the Moro National Liberation Front, in connection to the September 9 attacks. The fighting lasted for three weeks and resulted in a humanitarian crisis.

About 300 separatist rebels led by Ustadz Khabir Malik simultaneously stormed villages and seized over 200 civilians and used them as shield against security forces as they tried, but failed to fly MNLF flags at City Hall. At the end of the street battles, over 200 rebels had been captured or surrendered to state forces and are also facing criminal charges.

Judge Eric Elumba signed the arrest warrant for Misuari and three of his lieutenants – Bas Arki, Assamin Hussin and Malik – and other people implicated in the attacks.

Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, a regional police spokesman, who has a copy of the arrest warrant, said Misuari’s group is facing rebellion and other string of criminal charges, including violation of the Republic Act Number 9851 or the Philippines Act on Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other crimes against humanity.

Just early this month, police raided the bungalow of Misuari in Zamboanga City and recovered explosives and anti-government propaganda, but failed to capture the former Libyan firebrand, who is believe to be hiding in Sulu archipelago and is reportedly planning to escape to Malaysia or Indonesia and travel to a Muslim country to seek political asylum. Malik also escaped a massive dragnet in Zamboanga and could have rejoined Misuari.

Misuari signed a peace agreement with Manila in September 1996 ending decades of bloody fighting in the southern region. After the peace agreement was signed, Misuari became the governor of Muslim autonomous region.

But many former rebels were disgruntled with the accord, saying, the government failed to comply with some of its provisions and uplift their standards of living. They accused the government of failing to develop the war-torn areas in the South, which remain in mired in poverty, heavily militarized and dependent financially on Manila.

In November 2001, on the eve of the elections in the autonomous region, Misuari accused the government of reneging on the peace agreement, and his followers launched a new rebellion in Sulu and Zamboanga City, where more than 100 people were killed.

Misuari escaped by boat to Malaysia, but was arrested there and deported back to the Philippines. He was eventually freed in 2008 after Manila dropped all charges against him for lack of sufficient evidence.

Despite his fiery accusations against the government and even while in jail, Misuari still ran thrice for governor in Sulu province, but terribly lost all elections. And in May this year, he also ran for governor in the Muslim autonomous region, bragging his aspiration is supported by millions of Muslims, but he ended up losing again.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/10/philippines-launches-manhunt-for-mnlf.html

Upgrades of PN bases, shipyards, dry-docks underway

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9): Upgrades of PN bases, shipyards, dry-docks underway

Aside from acquiring more potent naval vessels to protect the country's vast maritime territories, efforts are also underway to modernize the various bases, shipyards and dry-docks being operated by the Philippine Navy (PN), a ranking official said Tuesday.

Commodore Jose Renan C. Suarez, Navy Patrol Force commander, said improvement of bases and other support infrastructures is part of the PN's capability upgrade program.

He added that this aims to improve the maintenance capability of the PN which will allow it to maintain and upgrade the new ships on its own.

"Having these (maintenance) capabilities will allow us to extend the life cycle of our brand-new by another 30 years," Suarez emphasized.

He also clarified that most navies, due to the high costs of naval vessels, are more interested in upgrades and retro-fitting as this is more cheaper and faster than acquiring newly constructed vessels.

Suarez earlier said that the two brand-new frigates which the Department of National Defense is acquiring for P18-billion is definitely more superior and heavily armed that the two Hamilton-class cutters in PN service.

He added that ships are equipped with radar, sonar, and electronic warfare systems and can engage airborne, surface and underwater threats simultaneously.

Aside from these surveillance and detection equipment, the frigates are also armed with anti-ship and anti-air missiles and a main gun capable of firing 120 rounds per minute aside from a torpedo system.

As of the moment, the Hamilton-class cutters in Philippine service are only armed with a 76mm main gun which can fire 60 to 80 rounds per minute.

Suarez said that these ships are part of the PN's "Navy Frigate Program" which has a timeline of 2013 to 2017.

He added that these ships are designed with numerous upgrades cycle to ensure that they will remain relevant and competitive against new vessels coming in line.

Suarez said that these ships will greatly enhanced PN's capabilities to defend the country's vast maritime territories.

He added that these ships will also greatly aid the two Hamilton-class cutters in service, BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), in their patrol and monitoring work once in commission at the PN.

Plans are afoot to upgrade the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz to make them more capable in their maritime domain awareness mission.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=574379

Additional weapons of BRP Ramon Alcaraz now being installed

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9): Additional weapons of BRP Ramon Alcaraz now being installed

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Wednesday announced that the additional weaponry and electronic systems are now being installed at BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) which is now on its dry-docking period.

"BRP Ramon Alcaraz is presently being installed with additional weapons, armaments and electronic systems," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.

But for reasons of "operational security", he declined to identify these weapons and electronic systems.

"For operational security reasons, I cannot divulge (the exact type) of weapons and electronic systems which are now being installed," he added.

Earlier reports said that the BRP Ramon Alcaraz will be fitted with two Mark 38 Model 2 25mm "Bushmasters" autocannon and four to six light machine guns will be fitted during the dry-docking period.

The ship went into dry-dock last Aug. 16.

It arrived in the Philippines last Aug. 6 after a two month voyage from the United States.

The Filipino frigate is presently armed with a quick-firing 76mm Oto Melara main gun which has a range of 20 nautical miles.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=574531

AFP, PNP craft directive to form Eastern Mindanao JPSCC

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9): AFP, PNP craft directive to form Eastern Mindanao JPSCC

In line with their efforts to fully secure Eastern Mindanao from security and climate change threats, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police Wednesday crafted a letter directive calling for the creation of of Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) in the region.

The JPSCC will be designated to handle concerns on peace and security, disaster mitigation and emergency response in Eastern Mindanao.

Units which participated in the crafting of the JPSCC include the Eastern Mindanao Command and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Eastern Mindanao, Philippine National Police (DIPO-EM, PNP).

The JPSCC requires combined efforts of the military and police in security operations against all threat groups within Eastern Mindanao in support to local government units and government agencies that are in need of military and police assistance.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=574522

Casualty count in Basilan encounter with ASG, other lawless elements climbs to 5 killed, 11 wounded

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9): Casualty count in Basilan encounter with ASG, other lawless elements climbs to 5 killed, 11 wounded

The number of troops and Abu Sayyaf Group and lawless brigands killed and wounded during an encounter in Ungkaya Pukan town, Basilan Tuesday has climbed up to five dead and 11 wounded.

Col. Carlito Galvez, 104th Infantry Brigade commander, said this can be broken down to two killed and four wounded on the government side with three killed and seven wounded on the ASG and other lawless groups.

He added government forces conducting clearing operations in the area encountered around 100 brigands.

The ASG fatalities were all eventually found buried, Galvez stressed.

All government wounded are now doing fine at a medical center.

Galvez said that they are now on a defensive formation following reports that the ASG will conduct another attack.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=574594

Zambo City RTC issues arrest order vs. Misuari, Malik and 63 others

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9): Zambo City RTC issues arrest order vs. Misuari, Malik and 63 others

The Zamboanga City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Wednesday issued a warrant of arrest against Moro National Liberation Front founding chair Nurallaji "Nur" Misuari, MNLF commander Habier Malik and 63 others.

The arrest warrant was in connection with the rebellion charges filed by the Department of Justice against the 65 respondents for the bloody siege in Zamboanga City.

Justice Secretary Leila M. De Lima earlier confirmed that the charges were filed by the Zamboanga City Prosecutor's Office last Monday.

The DOJ recommended no bail for the rebellion case.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=574686