Gov't, MILF hope to seal firearms deal

From Rappler (Jan 21): Gov't, MILF hope to seal firearms deal


 

FINAL LEG. Will a final peace agreement be signed by February 2014? File photo by OPAPP

 

The talks that aim to end a 4-decade armed struggle in Mindanao comes to its final chapter – and what's left pending is the most sensitive issue in the ongoing negotiations.

When the government and the rebel Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) resume negotiations Wednesday, January 22, in Kuala Lumpur, they will discuss what to do with firearms and what would happen next to the people who will lay them down.

While previous deals on power and wealth sharing in the envisioned Bangsamoro political entity required the state to give more than what the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao presently enjoys, this time around, the ball is in the MILF's court.

Under the annex on normalization, the MILF will undergo a systematic process of decommissioning of arms in a "gradual and phased" manner.

Government peace panel chair Miriam Coronel Ferrer has warned against using the words "surrender" or "disarmament" in this scenario, especially in the context of the 16-year-old peace negotiations that would soon give rise to a new political entity in Mindanao.

The proposed decommissioning of arms is what distinguishes the 1996 peace agreement signed by the MILF's rival group, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), from the Framework Agreement (FAB) signed by the MILF in October 2012. The MILF, whose bailiwick is in central Mindanao, had broken away from the MNLF. (READ: The MNLF, MILF and 2 peace agreements).

"The concept of decommissioning or disarmament was not yet in the consciousness of the 1996 peace agreement," Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles said in a House committee hearing back in October – a month after the MNLF siege of Zamboanga City.

Lessons from the past

Back in 1996, under the Ramos government, MNLF troops voluntarily gave up their arms in exchange for cash through the Balik-Baril program, which meant that the MNLF, as an organization, was not obliged to drop its weapons.

This time around, MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said the decommissioning of firearms would not correspond to immediate cash incentives.

Instead, both sides envision a normalization process that would entail confidence-building measures from both the government and the MILF.

"The normalization process will occur in parallel tracks. As the MILF decomissions its arms, the government will also gradually decommission government troops, as well as private armed groups, in the area while the Bangsamoro government is being set up," Iqbal said.

But the disposition of forces will not happen in one go. An initial decommissioning of troops from both sides will occur. How many in each stage is still up for discussion.

What will happen to their arms? Iqbal said the panels are exploring "all models" around the world, including the Irish Republican Army model where their firearms were kept in a warehouse for safekeeping.

In media interviews, government peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the panels are exploring the possibility of allowing MILF members to keep small firearms allowed under the current gun law of the country.

The MILF meanwhile ruled out the Ache, Indonesia model, where firearms were destroyed as part of the peace agreement.

To provide clear commitments, both panels are eyeing a third party to oversee the inventory of arms and troops.

Guarded optimism

Deles said the government hopes to sign the comprehensive peace agreement by the end of January or February.

But Iqbal, who has been negotiating for the MILF for at least 15 years, is approaching this round of talks with "guarded optimism."

"Always guarded optimism. As you know, peace talks are practically unpredictable. But based on the trend in the recent executive session we had, there's a tinge of hope."

Both sides had expected progress in the last quarter of 2013, but the MNLF's siege of Zamboanga City in September complicated matters for them since the MNLF rebels said government had yet to implement some of the provisions of the 1996 pact.

What happens then?

When the MNLF signed a peace agreement with the Ramos government in 1996, qualified members were integrated into the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the Philippine National Police.

But, as Deles noted in an earlier House committee hearing, the peace pact did not guarantee socio-economic programs for troops who were not qualified to join the force.

With the present negotiations, the normalization annex will also include livelihood programs for rebel troops who will return to the fold of law.

Under the Framework Agreement, both sides also agreed to create a "civilian" police force for the Bangsamoro. (READ: Terms for Moro police commission OKd)

Private armed groups to be disarmed

But it's not only the MILF that needs to give up their firearms.

As part of the normalization process, the MILF also wants government troops to lead the dissolution of private armed groups in Mindanao.

How and when this would happen will become one of the biggest challenges when the Bangsamoro peace process moves from the negotiating table to the implementation phase.

But Iqbal said it should happen "very soon."

Both sides want all these steps to be completed before President Aquino steps down from office in 2016, also in time for the expected creation of the Bangsamoro government.

Bangsamoro waters

Aside from the annex on normalization, both sides will also work on finally arriving at a deal on Bangsamoro waters. It was left as an addendum when they signed the annex on power-sharing in December.

Why is the Bangsamoro waters issue so contentious? According to Iqbal, it involves all aspects of the agreement - power and resources.

Iqbal said Bangsamoro waters would be defined as an area up to 22 kilometers from the shoreline, which is 7 kilometers more than municipal waters under the current law.

The MILF wants a zone of cooperation to be established in the area, which covers the Moro Gulf and the Sulu Sea.

"The government offered royalty. We declined. We see it as a sell out," Iqbal said.

Mindanews reported there were also proposals of 60-40 sharing on resources in Bangsamoro waters in favor of the central government.

"They don't want to give in. We don't want to take it. That's what we have to discuss," Iqbal said.

Once both sides sign the annex on normalization and the addendum on Bangsamoro waters, the only document left to craft would be the final peace pact.

The Muslim rebellion in the South has hampered development in Muslim-dominated provinces such as Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi in western Mindanao, and Maguindanao, Cotabato and Lanao provinces in central Mindanao.

The peace talks in Malaysia are expected to be held from January 22 to January 26. (For updates on the talks in Kuala Lumpur, follow @angelacasauay on Twitter.)

http://www.rappler.com/nation/special-coverage/peacetalks/48517-final-stretch-government-milf-arms-deal

MNLF members attend forum on Bangsamoro entity

From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): MNLF members attend forum on Bangsamoro entity

Former guerrillas of the Moro National Liberation Front in Ampatuan town  participated in a forum the other day on the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB), the basis for a final peace deal between its rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the government.

The FAB forum was held in Barangay Kauran, a duly recognized “peace and development community” by the government and MNLF, which are bound together by a now 18-year final peace agreement brokered by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The OIC, a bloc of more than 50 Muslim states, including wealthy petroleum-exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa, helped broker the September 2, 1996 government-MNLF final peace pact.

Senior members of Ampatuan’s municipal peace and order council said no fewer than 200 women, either wives, or dependents of MNLF members, attended the forum and listened to speakers who explained the gains of the government-MILF peace talks, and the directions of the overture.

The MILF and the government, whose talks started January 7, 1997, aim to establish a Bangsamoro political entity to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao before the three-year term of incumbent ARMM officials ends on June 30, 2016.

The peace forum in Barangay Kauran was organized by the Kadtatabanga Foundation for Peace and Development Advocates, Inc., a non-government organization whose members include MNLF members.

One of the speakers in the forum, Rabie Angkal, a professor at the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College, told participants any final peace deal between the government and the MILF will never discriminate the MNLF.

He said it is important for all sectors to support the FAB, forged by the MILF and government on October 15, 2012 and will be the basis  to set up  a new Bangsamoro political entity.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/01/21/1281377/mnlf-members-attend-forum-bangsamoro-entity

MILF reminded vs setting up political office in Zamboanga after failed try

From GMA News (Jan 21): MILF reminded vs setting up political office in Zamboanga after failed try

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front was warned Monday against setting up a political office in Zamboanga City, at least until it finally forges a peace agreement with the government.

In posts on its Twitter account, the city government said the reminder stemmed from the MILF's attempt to set up a political office in one of its barangays.

"Pending comprehensive peace agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF, any movement on the ground let alone in Zamboanga City by any MILF group is illegal," the city government said.

Also, the city government noted even the International Monitoring Team had said "an MILF political office in Barangay Cawit is illegal."

It said IMT leader Malaysian Col. Zolkipli Hashim had issued a "stern warning" to the MILF group that wanted to form a Bangasamoro Political Office in Cawit.

"Col. Hashim made the statement during a dialogue in Cawit between the MILF group headed by the a certain Jusali Musali, and City officials," it said.

The city government said Musali’s group allegedly built a structure in Cawit for the so-called MILF Bangsamoro Political Office.

But the barangay chairman protested and brought the issue before the IMT, claiming Musali's group did not coordinate with his office.

Meanwhile, the city government quoted Maj. Abdurasad Sirai, head of the government peace panel's Mindanao secretariat, as saying Zamboanga City "is not part of the Bangsamoro and it is non-negotiable.”

For her part, Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco reiterated the city has been against inclusion in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the proposed Bangsamoro entity that would replace the ARMM.

The mayor also denied she had been consulted on the matter by the MILF group.

The government and the MILF have so far signed two annexes in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, one on wealth sharing (signed July 2013) and one on transitional arrangements and modalities (signed February 2013). 

The last two unsigned annexes in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro are the ones on power-sharing and normalization.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/344769/news/regions/milf-reminded-vs-setting-up-political-office-in-zamboanga-after-failed-try

US Ambassador to hand over USAID project in Pablo-hit town

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 21): US Ambassador to hand over USAID project in Pablo-hit town

United States Ambassador Philip Goldberg will lead the ceremonial turn over of a market building in Compostela town in Compostela Valley on January 24.

The P5.83-million three-building project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which will serve as the center of trade and commerce for about 23,000 residents, farmers and fisherfolk, replaced the old structures that were destroyed by typhoon Pablo on December 4, 2012.

The designers adopted safety standards higher than current ones to reduce the risk of damage by future typhoons.

While in the facility, Goldberg will also meet with vegetable and aquaculture growers to whom USAID provided input and technical assistance to help restore their livelihoods after the storm.

Compostela Valley Governor Arturo Uy and Mayor Lema Bolo will receive the project, in behalf of the municipal government of Compostela, which will be responsible for implementing the recommended environmental measures and maintaining the structural integrity and beneficial use of the facilities.

Goldberg will also inspect the Poblacion Compostela Bridge, a major transport facility which was also damaged by Pablo and rehabilitated through the USAID assistance.

It is expected to benefit about 13,906 residents and provide long-term economic benefits by reducing the hauling costs of farm products and facilitating safer and easier access to goods and services available in the Poblacion.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=607610

DND to check crash record of lone bidder in P5.3-B aircraft deal

From Rappler (Jan 21): DND to check crash record of lone bidder in P5.3-B aircraft deal

BRAND NEW: Spanish firm EADS/Casa -Airbus Military is the lone eligible bidder for military's brand new aircraft. Photo from the company website

The Philippines defense department vowed to look into the crash record of EADS Casa Airbus military, the only qualified bidder in the P5.3-billion aircraft acquisition project for 3 medium lift fixed wing of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

The Spanish firm committed to supply the miltary 3 C295 planes for P5,288,609,983.99 or lower than the approved budget.

C295 is like a smaller version of the already familiar C130, which saw action in the Zamboanga City siege and government response to Typhoon Yolanda. It has an open ramp at the backside to allow troops an easy drop from above. It can carry up to 9 tons of payload or up to 71 personnel. C130s can carry up to 120 personnel.

EADS Casa's C295 figured in at least one recent fatal crash and reports of defective aircraft. These incidents were reported in the media following the second bidding held last week. (READ: Only one bidder qualifies for military's P5.3-B aircraft deal)

Defense Assistant Secretary Patrick Velez said fatal crash incidents involving Airbus Military's C295 will be evaluated as the Spanish firm enters the post-qualification stage, a process where the Philippines determines its capability to supply the aircraft.

"This should not be part of the bidding process but we exercise our responsible authority to be able to determine the instances of fatal crashes which were reported in leading newspapers," Velez said before fellow members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) on Monday, January 20.

Velez presented the explanation of EADS Casa to the 2 incidents reported in the media. In 2008, at least 20 were killed when Casa's C295 crashed in Poland. Investigation reports showed that it was caused by pilot error.

"In 2012, the Polish Air Force ordered an additonal batch of 5 of C295 showing their confidence with the safety and effectiveness of C295," Velez said, reading EADS Casa's letter.

In 2012, Casa's C295 also figured in a different controversy when the Czech military returned the aircraft because of some defects. Its DAS anti-rocket systems and the plane's navigation systems were found defective. When the aircraft couldn't be repaired, EADS Casa was forced to replace them. EADS Casa submitted a company report that the Czech military accepted the replacement aircraft.

Investigation will continue, Velez said. "What would be important is the examination of the causes of the fatal accidents, whether these fatal accidents were caused by human error or by the failure of the equipment itself to perform in optimum condition under given environment," Velez told the committee.

"At present, we cannot offer conclusion for the moment except that we will continue to verify accidents involving C295 during post-qualification," he told the BAC members.

The BAC team that will conduct post-qualification stage is expected to fly to Spain on February 1 and aims to finish its probe by February 8. Without hitches, the project could be awarded to the Spanish firm by the end of February.

If all goes well, the first of the 3 C295 aircraft will arrive by August 2015 or earlier.

Denied: Losing bidder offers bonus aircraft

EADS Casa Airbus Military proceeds to the post-qualification stage as the BAC on Monday denied motions filed by 2 losing bidders for the committee to review its decisions.

DISQUALIFIED: Indonesia's CN235-220 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Photo from company website http://www.indonesian-aerospace.com/view.php?m=product&t=aircraft-detil&id=2

Losing bidder PT Dirgantara Indonesia was disqualified because, among other reasons, the planes (CN235) it offered did not comply with the DND requirements. It is smaller than the C295.

In its appeal, the state-owned firm offered to supply 4 aircraft instead of the required 3 to compensate for the deficiencies of its planes.

But Velez dismissed it. "Specifications cannot be changed at the late phase of the project," Velez said. "While the request was laudable, it was not feasible to say yes to compensation by limitation," he added.

The BAC supported Velez's arguments. The Indonesian firm's motion for reconsideration was denied.

Velez also threatened PT Dirgantara Indonesia with possible "administrative sanction" or "blacklisting." Knowing the technical requirements of the aircraft project, he said the Indonesian firm should not have submitted its bid knowing that its planes are not qualified.

Under bidding laws in the Philippines, a participating bidder that offers disqualified products at least 3 times could be blacklisted.

Another losing bidder, Italian firm Alenia Aermacchi, wrote the BAC letters to investigate possible collusion between the Spanish and the Indonesian firm. The two firms apparently have an earlier sub-contracting agreement involving the CN235 aircraft.

The BAC also dismissed the allegations as "insufficient to establish conflict of interest or establish collusion."

It is normal for corporations to have a subcontracting agreement. Velez said similar situations were seen in previous bidding processes. The Spanish and Indonesian firms did not offer similar aircraft and have no similar controlling shareholders.

Alenia Aermacchi joined the first bidding, where there was no qualified bidder. It offered its ATR 42 aircraft. It also bought bid documents for the second bidding but it did not participate.

"I suspect what Alenia wants is for us to stop procurement. We cannot stop without acceptable justification," said Velez.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/48451-crash-record-eads-casa-airbus-military

DND to probe accidents of Spanish firm's planes

From the Philippine Star (Jan 20): DND to probe accidents of Spanish firm's planes

The Defense department on Monday vowed to look into the accidents involving the aircraft being offered by a Spanish firm to the Air Force.

The company, EADS/CASA - Airbus Military, was declared the only eligible bidder for the supply of three new medium lift fixed-wing aircraft worth P5.3-billion. It offered to supply C-295 planes for P5.29-billion during the bidding for the project held this month.

The said aircraft model, however, figured in recent controversies that raised doubts on its quality. These include the 2008 crash which claimed the lives of 20 persons in Poland and the decision of the Czech military to return faulty C-295 planes to EADS/CASA.

Defense officials, however, said the plane’s quality will be scrutinized when they conduct the post-qualification phase.

“At present, we cannot offer any conclusion but we will continue to verify the accidents involving the C-295 during the post qualification phase,” Defense Assistant Secretary Patrick Velez said.

The post-qualification phase allows defense officials to determine whether the planes being offered by EADS/CASA are compliant with the standards they set.

Velez cited reports stating that the 2008 air mishap was caused by human error and not due to the plane’s quality.

EADS/CASA claimed that the Polish Air Force acquired five more C-295 planes four years after the crash but this would be verified by defense officials.

The post-qualification phase for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft has been slated for next month in Spain.

The Airbus website described the C-295 planes as “the most capable and versatile transport and surveillance aircraft.” The air assets is said to be capable of carrying up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt or 480 km/h.

Meanwhile, the Defense department rejected an appeal by an Indonesian firm for it to be declared as an eligible bidder for the project.

PT Dirgantara Indonesia joined the bidding for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft but was disqualified due to its failure to meet some requirements.

The company filed for a motion for reconsideration but this was rejected yesterday by the Special Bids and Awards Committee 1 (SBAC-1).
The SBAC-1 said PT Dirgantara’s plane was not compliant with the technical specifications provided by the bid documents.

The company’s aircraft can only carry 34 paratroopers, lower than the 40 set by the Defense department. The bid documents also required that the aircraft should have a payload of 11,000 lbs. at 950 nautical miles but PT Dirgantara’s plane can only carry 10,120 lbs.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/20/1281076/dnd-probe-accidents-spanish-firms-planes

US senator arriving in Phl to talk security, recovery

From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): US senator arriving in Phl to talk security, recovery



American Senator for Florida Marco Rubio travels to Japan, the Philippines and South Korea this week. US Senate/Rubio staff

American Senator Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in the Philippines on Wednesday for his three-country Asia trip.

"Asia is vitally important to the future of America’s security and economic well-being," he said in a statement.

Rubio, a young Republican lawmaker and a ranking member of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, will meet with President Benigno Aquino III and other government officials to discuss critical economic and security issues.

"America must make sure that our rhetoric about increasing our presence in Asia does not come at the expense of enduring alliances and challenges in other parts of the world. The fact is that the United States has long been a Pacific power and it is vital that we maintain our robust military and diplomatic presence in the region while adapting to new realities," Rubio said.

Last week, Rubio's staff announced that the lawmaker will review ongoing typhoon recovery efforts as the Philippines faces the immense task of rebuilding after record Supertyphoon Yolanda last November.

Currently, Rubio is in Japan and held meetings with senior military officials on maritime disputes in the East China Sea as well as with business chambers.

The lawmaker will also travel to South Korea on Thursday to greet American troops and visit the Demilitarized Zone.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/21/1281347/us-senator-arriving-phl-talk-security-recovery

Navy allots P25M for consultant

From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): Navy allots P25M for consultant

The Navy will spend P25-million for the services of a consultant for its multi-billion ship acquisition project.

Commodore Ronald Mercado of the Navy technical working group said the consultant would complement their expertise on the ships' design and capabilities.

"The consultant will provide us the technical expertise and the knowledge," Mercado told reporters in an interview Monday.

The Defense department has allowed the Navy to tap a consultant for the project, which seeks to improve the country's territorial defense capabilities.

The goverment is spending P18 billion to buy two Navy frigates as part of the military's upgrade efforts.

The bidding process for the project started late last year.

The consultant for the project will be chosen through negotiations. Mercado said they are looking for a consultant in the region with proven expertise and track record.

"We need to have it (consultant) within next month," he said.

The budget for the consultant will be charged from the Armed Forces Modernization Fund.

Earlier, THE STAR reported that four companies have been declared eligible to proceed to the next phase of the bidding for the P18-billion project.

The eligible bidders are Navantia Sepi (RTR Ventures) of Spain and South Korean firms STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd. and Hyundai Heavy Industries, Inc.

The four firms passed the first stage of the bidding, which involved the inspection of company eligibility documents.

Three other companies joined the bidding but the Defense department declared their documents to be deficient. The three disqualified firms are now asking the agency to reconsider its decision and to declare them as eligible bidders.

The three bidders that filed motions for reconsideration were Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. of India, STX France SA and Thyssenkrupp Marine System.

The Navy will nevertheless review the offers of the four eligible fims while the Defense department deliberates on the appeal of the disqualified bidders.

Mercado said they would conduct workshops in Cavite next month to assess the technical features of the ships being offered. The Navy technical working group will allot five days to each bid submitted.

Mercado said they would allot another three weeks for assessments in the event that the Defense department reverses its decision on the three disqualified firms.

The second phase of the bidding will involve the opening of financial documents to determine who among the bidders is offering the lowest price.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/21/1281370/navy-allots-p25m-consultant

MNLF hands off on peace deal between GPH, MILF

From the Philippine Star (Jan 20): MNLF hands off on peace deal between GPH, MILF



The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rejected proposals to converge with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in its crafting of a final peace accord with government.

The MNLF, which signed a final truce with government on Sept. 2, 1996, said it is merely adhering to all resolutions by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) purporting that any of its dealings with Malacañang must be within the scope of the existing tripartite body that has been trying to resolve all misunderstandings on the now 18-year peace agreement.

The largest and most politically active MNLF faction, chaired by former Cotabato City Vice-Mayor Muslimin Sema, said in an emailed statement that accepting the GPH and MILF’s proposal can be construed as an insult to the OIC.

The OIC, a bloc of more than 50 Muslim states, including wealthy petroleum exporting nations in the Middle East and North Africa, helped broker the government-MNLF final peace agreement.

The agreement is now subject of a tripartite review- involving the OIC, the MNLF and representatives from the national government and ARMM- as a three-way effort to resolve misunderstandings on the implementation of some of its sensitive provisions.

The tripartite review has already reached 42 consensus points on education, Moro political representation, natural resources, Sharia and regional security, which are all almost identical with what had been stated in all of the three annexes the GPH and MILF panels had added to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB).

The GPH and MILF panels are yet to complete the fourth and last annex on normalization to the FAB in the next round of talks in Malaysia.

The FAB is to become the basis for the setting up of an MILF-led Bangsamoro entity, which the government and the MILF intend to put up before the three-year term of incumbent ARMM officials end on June 30, 2016.

The MNLF faction led by Nur Misuari is just as reluctant to converge with the MILF and join in its forging of a final peace agreement with government.

Misuari has, in fact, been very critical of the on-going GPH-MILF talks.

The group of Sema, which has more than 20 revolutionary states in Mindanao and the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, said the issue of converging the MILF and the MNLF together is best left to the OIC.

“The MNLF has yet to wait for the manifestation of the OIC as regards to the modalities on how that linkage can be worked out,” the group said.

The Sema group, emphasized, however, that it has no animosity with the MILF. The group said the MNLF and the MILF are not at war with each other.

“The central committee of this MNLF leadership do not want to do any disrespect to the organization of the Muslim peoples of the world – the OIC,” the group stated in its emailed statement.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/01/20/1281006/mnlf-hands-peace-deal-between-gph-milf

Armed men raid Japanese firm’s warehouse

From the Philippine Star (Jan 21): Armed men raid Japanese firm’s warehouse

Unidentified armed men barged into a warehouse owned by a Japanese firm in Valencia City in Bukidnon and torched heavy equipment before fleeing with several firearms last Friday.

 Reports said around 10 to 15 men entered a banana processing warehouse of Sumifru in Barangay Barobo. 

The armed men reportedly held the warehouse security guards at gunpoint and took their firearms, cell phones and radios. They set a water tank, a back hoe and two packing machines on fire before fleeing, according to 1Lt. Norman Tagros, spokesman for the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion.

At least P2 million worth of properties were destroyed in the attack, said Tagros, adding that “lawless elements” have been extorting from Sumifru.

“They even demanded that they be placed in the company’s payroll in exchange for their protection,” he said.

Authorities refused to confirm whether the raiders were New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas.

“There were no reported sightings of NPA rebels in the area recently,” said Lt. Col. Romulado Landingin, chief of the Army’s 18th IB.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/01/21/1281045/armed-men-raid-japanese-firms-warehouse

AFP declares Regions 1,2,3, Cordilleras ready for dev’t

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 20): AFP declares Regions 1,2,3, Cordilleras ready for dev’t

Camp Aquino, Tarlac – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has declared the entire Regions 1,2,3 and Cordillera Administrative Region as generally peaceful and ready for further development, although there are still few remnants of the CPP/NPA operating in these areas.

“No more insurgency recruits in our area and I can say Northern and Central Luzon areas are peaceful and ready for further development,” Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr., Commander of Northern Luzon Command, told this correspondent.

Catapang said these remnants are just now resorting to extortion and arson to maintain their existence, adding the force of the rebels operating nationwide had been down to more or less 4,000, from 25,000 during their peak.

“I can safely say that Pampanga is now insurgency-free and that Gov. Lilia Pineda is right when she declared her province had been rid of rebels,” Catapang said.

The rebels justified their collecting money from the public by claiming these are revolutionary taxes, however.

Few days ago, top AFP and local government officials signed a Memorandum of Agreement , declaring Pampanga as insurgency-free and ready for further development.

Among those who took part in the ceremonial signing were AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Northern Luzon Command commander Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., Army 7th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Hernando Iriberri, Army 703rd Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Henry Sabarrre, Governor Lilia Pineda, Department of the Interior and Local Government Provincial Director Myrvi Fabia and Philippine National Police Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Oscar Albayalde.

In his message, Bautista said he was glad to be able to witness the transformation of Pampanga from a hot bed of socialist and anti-government movements to an insurgency-free area.

Bautista said the event is a historical one because it signifies the victorious quest against poverty and the plight of the people caused by rebel forces. This also puts an end to our 45 years of battle against insurgency, Bautista said.

For her part, Pineda acknowledged the efforts and hard work of all local chief executives and chiefs of police in all towns and cities in order to attain this status, adding the declaration will be a big boost not only in terms of internal peace and security, but also on the quality of life of Kapampangans.

Pineda said the declaration of the province as insurgency-free,” we are now confident that we can pull in more investors, can generate more revenues and more job opportunities which will in turn help in uplifting the quality of life of our people.

http://www.mb.com.ph/afp-declares-regions-123-cordilleras-ready-for-devt/

Army seizes NPA camp

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 21): Army seizes NPA camp

A week after improvised explosive devices were recovered in northern Negros, the 11th Infantry Battalion troopers discovered a large encampment of the New People’s Army in Brgy. Tan-awan, Kabankalan City, Sunday.

Maj. Rey Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesman, yesterday said the camp, that can accommodate about 100 persons, is believed to have been abandoned several days before it was discovered.

The fleeing rebels left behind a CPP-NPA red flag, subversive documents, a handbook for the Batakang Kursong Pampartido and personal belongings, he said.

1Lt. Von Ryan Gomez, 11th IB Civil Military Operations Officer, said the discovery of the NPA training camp, was a result of ongoing military operations in the area.

Two weeks ago, suspected NPA assassins shot and killed CAFGU member Ricky Camacho in Brgy. Magballo, Kabankalan City. It was followed by the killing of a Bukidnon tribe member in Brgy. Riverside, Isabela, military records show.

Gomez said the abandoned rebel camp, which is located in a forested area, has two makeshift huts and a comfort room, with an estimated area of 2,185 square meters.

Last week, six IEDs with blasting caps and a fragmentation grenade were recovered by military intelligence operatives in an abandoned NPA makeshift hut in Hacienda Begonia, Brgy. Purisima, Manapla, the military reported.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/January/21/topstory3.htm

China begins naval drills in South China Sea

From the Sun Star (Jan 20): China begins naval drills in South China Sea

Chinese naval vessels, including an island landing ship, began drills Monday in the South China Sea, where China and several other nations are locked in territorial disputes.

Two destroyers and China's largest amphibious landing craft started the exercises after sailing from the naval base on the southern island province of Hainan, the official Xinhua News Agency said. The ships also boast three helicopters and a company of marines.

Xinhua quoted Commander Jiang Weilie as saying the drills would focus on integrated combat missions involving ships, submarines and aircraft, suggesting other units may also be involved.

China has moved sharply to assert its claim to nearly the entire South China Sea and its island groups, frequently dispatching patrol vessels to challenge foreign ships and demanding that other nations obtain its permission to fish in the area. The Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei also claim the entire sea or parts of it.

Late last year, China dispatched its first aircraft carrier and accompanying ships to the South China Sea for sea trials. One of the ships turned to block a U.S. ship shadowing the flotilla, forcing it to take action to avoid a collision.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2014/01/20/china-begins-naval-drills-south-china-sea-324209

U.S Ambassador expected to visit Zambo on Thursday

From the Zamboanga Today (Jan 20): U.S Ambassador expected to visit Zambo on Thursday

U.S. Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg will be in Zamboanga City on Thursday, January 23, 2014.

Sonny Mendoza of ENGAGE disclosed that Goldberg will lead in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and six partner local government units of USAID’s Enhancing Governance, Accountability and Engagement (ENGAGE) Project in this city.

Mendoza said ENGAGE is a five-year project that seeks, among others, to address governance challenges, continued social and economic instabilities and marginalization. Thus, promoting community empowerment as a foundation for inclusive local governance in targeted conflict-affected areas of Mindanao.

USAID/Philippines Mission Director Gloria Steele, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chairperson Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, Sulu Governor Abdusakur A. Tan II, Jolo Municipal Mayor Hussin Amin, Isabela City Mayor Cherrylyn Santos-Akbar, Maimbung Municipal Mayor Samier A. Tan, Lamitan City Mayor Rosita Furigay, and representatives from civil society and the academe are expected to attend the event.
http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/zamboangatoday/index.php/top-stories/16500-us-ambassador-expected-to-visit-zambo-on-thursday.html

MILF: Sixteen student-scholars from John Hopkins University, USA visit Bangsamoro Transition Commission Office

From the MILF Website (Jan 21): Sixteen student-scholars from John Hopkins University, USA visit Bangsamoro Transition Commission Office



Sixteen student-scholars on Conflict Management Program from John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), USA made a courtesy call to the office of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), in Cotabato City on January 16.
   

The Conflict Management Program focuses on mechanism on handling international conflicts, both between and within states that includes  the prevention of escalation of violence, managing crisis escalation, negotiating an end to violence, resolving underlying causes of conflict, developing cooperation, building peace and promoting reconciliation after violent conflict.

The trip of the scholars to the Philippines was purposely to acquire first-hand information, analyze the background and causes of the conflict in Mindanao and apply the principles of conflict management, resolution and post –conflict peace building that they have learned while inside their classrooms to a real conflict setting.

Mohagher Iqbal, Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace panel and the BTC and with the commissioners briefed the scholars on the updates of the GPH-MILF peace talks and answered their queries.

In 2011, a group of scholars from the same university visited Mindanao at the aftermath of the collapsed of the 2008 MOA-AD which resulted to a renewed war in Mindanao particularly in North Cotabato and Lanao del Norte.

That visit was an attempt to prevent a recurrence of violence in Mindanao so that the diplomatic peace process can proceed and identify a new formula for future agreement. 

This year’s visit of the student-scholars was to study and look into the conditions on how the peace process evolved through the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, last October 15, 2012 and determine new prospects and identify obstacles for completing the details of the agreement and implement it thereby attaining just and lasting peace in Mindanao.

The scholars also attended lectures and made extensive studies on conflict-affected areas prior to their trip and once they return to their school they will produce and edit set of essays to be presented in a public forum at SAIS in Washington DC and distribute them to all parties whom they met as well as other interested officials from relevant government and international institutions.

The group was led by two Senior Professors from SAIS, P. Terence Hopmann (US), a Professor of International Relations and Director of Conflict Management Program at SAIS and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at Brown University and William Zartman (US), Professor Emeritus of International Relations at SAIS and the founding Director of Conflict Management Program.

The members of the delegation, the countries where they came from and their proposed research studies were:

1.    Yasmin Anis (Egypt)- “Moro Identity-The Relationship  to the Christian majority in the Philippines and to neighboring Muslim States”;

2.    Leonie Evers (Netherlands & Germany) –“MILF views on the role of Muslim identity in the peace process and governance”;

3.    Joe Geni (USA)-“Future relations between the Bangsamoro and Government of the Philippines: Can autonomy work better in the new relationship than in previous attempts?”;

4.    Helga Kalm (Estonia)- “The Role of the International Contact Group in negotiations of the Framework Agreement and its Follow-up”;

5.    Benjamin Merill (USA) – “The Transformation of the MILF from a rebel group to a political actor within the Bangsamoro”;

6.    Felix Neugebauer (Germany)- “Protection and assistance to IDPs in Mindanao”;

7.    Panagiotis Olympious (Greece)- “Risks from Potentials Spoilers in the Mindanao Peace Process”;

8.    Mun Kyung Park (Korea)- “Mediator Identity and the negotiation process”;

9.    Akhila Raman (India)- “Women’s roles in peace-making and peace building in Mindanao”;

10.    Oliver Russel (UK) – “Role of Armed Forces and IMT Peacekeepers in the implementation of the Framework Peace Agreement”;

11.    Cormac Sullivan (UK) – “Problems of Economic Development and the implementation of the Framework Peace Agreement”;

12.    Michelle Thompson (USA)- “Relationship between the Bangsamoro Transition Commission and Civil Society Organizations”;

13.    Ryan Whalen (USA) – “Potential problems in implementation of foreign development assistance to Mindanao”;

14.    Constance Wilhelm (France/USA) –“Autonomy, self-determination, and inclusive politics-why has violence reoccurred after signing the Framework Peace Agreements?”;

15.      Ayda Wondemu (Ethiopia/USA) – “DDR in Mindanao: Disarming rebels and transition from war  fighting to policing in Mindanao”;

16.    Renee Wynveen (USA)- “Meeting the humanitarian  needs of populations in the conflict-affected areas of Mindanao”.

The student-scholars will also visit and interact with officials of government-MILF created agencies/ institutions such as Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI), Sajahatra Bangsamoro (SB) and identified agencies of government.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/776-sixteen-student-scholars-from-john-hopkins-university-usa-visit-bangsamoro-transition-commission-office

Commentary: Philippine Army’s ‘revolving door’

Commentary from the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 19): Philippine Army’s ‘revolving door’ (from the Reveille column by Ramon Farolan)

If you think the “revolving door” concept of leadership in the Armed Forces of the Philippines is strictly an affair involving the position of the AFP chief of staff, you are seriously mistaken or misinformed. This particular disease affects not just the top post in the organization but virtually the leadership of the major commands of the AFP. It is an affliction that has continued over a long and trying period brought about by a political leadership in this country that sees a fixed term of office for its military commanders as a possible threat to national security. Or, perhaps, that  views these military positions as part of the patronage package available for its  disposal.

In the next few days—possibly two weeks—the Philippine Army, the oldest, the largest, and the most dominant major service branch of the AFP, shall have its change of command ceremony. This is usually held at the parade ground of Fort Bonifacio, home of the 80,000-strong Army in Taguig City.

The Philippine Army traces its roots to the Tejeros Convention of March 22, 1897, when members of the Magdalo and Magdiwang factions of the revolution met to establish a republic and create its armed force. The convention elected Artemio Ricarte as captain-general of the Filipino Army.
Let me digress a bit.

Ricarte is considered the “father of the Philippine Army” and served as its commanding general from March 22, 1897 to Jan. 22, 1899. Although lacking presence or charisma, he had a reputation as a vicious and deadly fighter; he adopted the nom de guerre “Vibora” (viper).

Born in Batac, Ilocos Norte, Ricarte graduated from Letran College with a bachelor’s degree and was preparing for a teaching career. Instead he joined the Katipunan in the fight for independence. At one point, he led the attack on a Spanish garrison in San Francisco de Malabon. Ricarte continued the fight for freedom against the new colonizers until he was captured by US forces. In 1901, he and Apolinario Mabini were exiled to Guam. Upon their return, Ricarte refused to sign an oath of allegiance to the United States and was barred from setting foot in the Philippines. In 1903, as a stowaway on a Chinese vessel, he landed in Manila and immediately met with former colleagues for the continuation of the fight for independence. A year later, he was captured by constabulary agents and spent six years in Bilibid Prison. On his release, he again refused to sign an oath of allegiance to the United States and he was deported to Hong Kong.

From Hong Kong, he moved to Yokohama, Japan, where he spent almost 30 years until the start of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. He was flown back to the country and remained here for the rest of the war. Ricarte joined the Japanese forces led by Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita in their retreat to the north. At the age of 78, he died in Ifugao Province on July 31, 1945, from the effects of dysentery.

Some people consider Ricarte a traitor for collaborating with the Japanese. We had people who collaborated with the Spaniards and the Americans while the fight for Philippine independence was still going on, and they are referred to as  ilustrados. For Ricarte, the verdict is already in:

• Ricarte’s remains are buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani;
• His home in Batac City is now a historical shrine—the Ricarte National Shrine;
• The Philippine Navy honored him by naming one of its more modern ships, the BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37); ironically, it is the Philippine Army, of which he is the founding father, that has failed to honor its patriarch. Not a single major installation of the Army is named after Ricarte, a man who chose exile from his beloved land rather than sign an oath of allegiance to a foreign power. When it comes to our colonial past, many of us have selective memories.

* * *

The present commanding general of the Philippine Army (CGPA) is Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes. The most senior Army general with at least a year remaining in his military service is Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, current Northern Luzon Command chief. This makes him practically a shoo-in as the next CGPA. Catapang retires in July 2015. By the time Gen. Emmanuel Bautista retires as AFP chief of staff in July this year, Catapang would be the most senior service commander in the AFP and is likely to move up after barely six months in his job as CGPA.

The “revolving door” of the Army during the last two administrations has produced the following results:  Much has been said about the need for meaningful and lasting reforms in the military organization. But for as long as we operate under a “revolving door” concept of leadership, what we shall get will be temporary, short term, and mainly cosmetic changes that come and go with every variation of command authority.

http://opinion.inquirer.net/69949/philippine-armys-revolving-door

MILF tells North Cotabato officials Mindanao peace is at hand

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): MILF tells North Cotabato officials Mindanao peace is at hand

The chief negotiator of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)on Monday said the elusive peace in many parts of Mindanao would soon be achieved.

Mohaqher Iqbal said the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) is nearing completion of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Iqbal, together with the commissioners of the BTC, paid a courtesy call to Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza on Monday to bring his message of peace.

Mendoza, in her welcome remarks elaborated the importance of Iqbal’s visit and the meaningful message the BTC brings to Cotabateños.

“It is essential that we engage in consultations and discussions about the Bangsamoro and know what stage of the road map to its establishment it is now,” she said.

She reiterated her support to the peace process and assured the Commission that the provincial government supports peace initiatives such as forum, dialogues and other measures to address the apprehension of the people.

“The time has come for the people of Mindanao to set aside hatred, differences and conflict. We have to come into terms and achieve long lasting peace in this part of the country,” Iqbal said, reading his message in front of the top officials of the provincial government of Cotabato.

Iqbal said that the BTC and the quest for Bangsamoro establishment face bigger challenges especially now that the commission is at the midst of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) drafting.

“The drafting of the BBL will finally be finished in April of this year and we hope for the best that President Benigno C. Aquino will endorse it as a priority bill,” Iqbal added.

A referendum will take place in 2016 to the envisioned core territories of the Bangsamoro.

The BTC came with the delegation from the International Monitoring Tem (IMT) led by Major Gen. Dato Abdul Rahim bin Mohd Yusuff.

With him were other prominent members of IMT whose responsibility was to keep an eye on the implementation of the ceasefire agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF.

BTC Commissioner Atty. Raisa Jajurie gave an update of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the significant things realized by the BTC from the time of its creation to Gov. Mendoza and the Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through a power point presentation.

The Cotabato Board Members in attendance during Iqbal’s visit were Eliseo Garcesa, Jr., Cris Cadungon, Rogelio Marañon, Kelly Antao, Maybelle Valdevieso, Kelly Antao and Jomar Cerebo.

Col. Alan Arrojado, 602nd Brigade Commander, was also present and signified once more the military’s respect and support to the peace process.

The BTC gave a plaque of recognition to Mendoza for her support to the quest for peace in Mindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=607314

Army discovers large rebel camp in southern Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): Army discovers large rebel camp in southern Negros

Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) discovered Sunday a large camp of the New People’s Army Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros (KR-N) at Sitio Naputi-an, Barangay Tanawan, Kabankalan City.

The 3rd Infantry Division reported that the camp, which covers an estimated area of 2,185 square meters, is believed to have been abandoned for about four days before the soldiers discovered the area.

The camp, which can accommodate about 100 persons, has two makeshift houses and comfort rooms.

The 11th IB troopers recovered subversive documents, an NPA flag, a handbook for Batakang Kursong Pampartido and personal items during their operation.

Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of the Army’s 3rd ID, said the Army in Western Visayas is intensifying their efforts in finding rebel camps.

“The vigilance of the citizens in reporting the presence of lawless armed elements and the intensified peace and development efforts aided the discovery of abandoned camp,” he added.

Last January 14, soldiers in northern Negros recovered six improvised anti-personnel Claymore mines with blasting caps of the NPA at Barangay Purisima, Manapla town.

The Army received reports that NPA rebels are being trained in assembling the improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

“The peace-loving people of Negros wanted to have lasting peace,” Baladad said.

He added that the Philippine Army and the local governments in Negros are continuously calling and encouraging the rebels to abandon the armed struggle.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=607352

Military seizes 44 landmines in Agusan Del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): Military seizes 44 landmines in Agusan Del Sur

Troopers from the Eastern Mindanao Command have recovered 44 landmines during security patrols in Sitio Mampait, Barangay Mansanitas, Agusan Del Sur Sunday morning.

Capt. Alberto Caber, the command's spokesperson, said that eight sacks of PVC pipes, batteries, detonating cords and improvised firing devices were also recovered during the operation.

He added that the soldiers who made the capture are detailed at the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, a sub-unit of the 10th Infantry Division.

Caber said that they got the information of the rebels mine cache through reports from civilians who spotted suspected rebel fighters roaming in the vicinity for the past few days.

“Civilian information leads to the recovery of these NPA landmines. We thank our people for their cooperation. Our soldiers are always ready to respond anywhere and whenever needed. NPA continue to violate the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. If the NPA are sincere about peace, they must stop manufacturing landmines as these kill people and destroy properties,” said Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=607302

AFP increases random drug test by 20%

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): AFP increases random drug test by 20%

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday announced that it is increasing its target recipients of random drug-tests by 20 percent this year.

This is in line with its efforts to eradicate drug users in the military, said AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

Task Force Moses, the AFP’s anti-drug body, reported that in 2013 alone, some 20,000 personnel were targeted for the random drug-testing.

Its operational arms, Task Group Jacob for General Headquarters (GHQ), Unified Commands (UCs), and AFP-Wide Service Support Units (AWSSUs) and Task Group (TG) Joshua for Philippine Air Force exceeded its target of 4,000 each while TG Salamander for Philippine Navy achieved about 30 percent of its 4,000 mark.

Considering it has the most numbers of members, TG Midas of Philippine Army targeted 8,000 recipients and as of December 2013, it has achieved 83.6 percent of its target.

Out of the total personnel tested in the past year, some 113 personnel were confirmed positive. Of this number, 13 came from TG Jacob, 12 from TG Joshua, 18 from TG Salamander, and 70 from TG Midas.

A comparative analysis of TF Moses’ yearly accomplishments show a trend that personnel from the Air Force, UCs and AFPWSSUs have consistently registered the lowest number of personnel confirmed to be using illegal drugs while members from the Army and Navy, particularly Marines have recorded the highest number of personnel positive of illegal drug use.

A tabulation of the drug users also shows a trend that the younger the individual, the greater the susceptibility to drug use is -- five percent are Staff Sergeant/Petty Officer 2; 12 percent are Sergeant/Petty Officer 3; 26 percent are Corporal/Airman 1st Class/Seaman 1st Class; 51 percent are Private First Class/Airman 2nd Class/Seaman 2nd Class; and six percent are Private/Airman/Seaman.

Despite this, TF Moses, in its effort to reach a wider audience and to deliver a more effective campaign, is stepping up its information drive for a healthier, stronger and drug-free AFP.

Bracing for more challenges in the future, it has decided to increase its target recipients of random drug testing by 20 percent for this year.

Task Force Moses has also invested on the training of its members for better and more accurate results in drug testing which is why additional training for more number of personnel is projected for 2014.

The year 2014 brings another year of challenge to the task force’s commitment to get rid of illegal drug users in the AFP.

Cognizant of its accomplishment and aware of the task ahead, TF Moses can say that much has been accomplished yet more is to be done.

Regular mandatory and random drug testing to officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees in the AFP is part of the military’s campaign against drug-abuse.

This drug testing instantly identifies methamphetamines and cannabis from urine samples submitted by the subjects.

In case a subject was found positive in the drug test, an immediate confirmatory test will then be carried out in the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. A confirmed drug-user will then undergo an investigation.

"The AFP will continue to do this to set an example to our citizens against the use of illegal drugs. As protector of the people we should always be in our best physical, mental, and psychological condition in order to fully serve our responsibilities," Zagala concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=607287

3ID captures rebel camp in Negros Occidental

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): 3ID captures rebel camp in Negros Occidental

The Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division successfully took possession of an abandoned New People's Army (NPA) camp in Sitio Naputi-an, Barangay Tanawan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental Sunday morning.

In a belated report, Major Ray Tiongson, the unit's spokesperson, said the 3ID took over the camp operated by the "Komitenf Rehiyonal-Negros" at around 7:45 a.m.

Tiongson said that the camp, believed to have been abandoned about four days before its discovery, can accommodate more or less 100 persons and has two makeshifts and comfort rooms and an estimated area of 2,185 square meters.

Subversive documents, NPA flag, handbook for "Batakang Kursong Pampartido" and personal belongings were recovered from the camp.

“We are intensifying our efforts in discovering NPA camps. The vigilance of the citizens in reporting the presence of lawless armed elements and intensified peace and development efforts of the 3rd Infantry Division aided in the discovery of NPA’s abandoned camp,” 3rd Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Aurelio Baladad said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=607320

DND denies appeal of Indonesian aircraft manufacturer

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 20): DND denies appeal of Indonesian aircraft manufacturer

The Department of National Defense (DND) Special Bids and Awards Committee-1 (SBAC-1) has denied the motion for reconsideration filed by PT Dirgantara Indonesia to participant in its P5.3 billion medium lift fixed wing aircraft project.

The company earlier participated in the bidding but was declared 'out of running' due to its inability to meet the DND requirements.

The SBAC-1 said PT Dirgantara’s plane, the C-235, was not compliant with the technical specifications provided by the bid documents.

It added that the Indonesian manufacturer's plane could only carry 34 paratroopers, lower than the 40 set by the DND.

The bid documents also required that the aircraft can carry 11,000 pounds at 950 nautical miles but PT Dirgantara’s plane can only carry 10,120 pounds.

As this develops, the DND announced that it will look into accidents involving EADS/CASA-Airbus Military's C-295 aircraft, which is being offered to the Philippine Air Force as its next generation medium lift fixed-wing plane.

This was after the Spanish aircraft manufacturer was declared the only eligible bidder for the supply of three new medium lift fixed-wing aircraft worth P5.3-billion.

EADS/CASA-Airbus Military offered to supply three C-295 aircraft for P5.29 billion.

However, the C-295 was involved in a series of accidents including those in 2008 where a crash claimed the lives of 20 persons in Poland and the Czech military to return defective planes to EADS/CASA.

Possible defects will be look into when they conduct the post-qualification phase which will begin this Feb. 1.

“At present, we cannot offer any conclusion but we will continue to verify the accidents involving the C-295 during the post qualification phase,” DND assistant secretary Patrick Velez said.

He also cited reports stating that the 2008 air mishap was caused by human error and not due to the plane’s quality.

EADS/CASA-Airbus Military claimed that the Polish Air Force acquired five more C-295 planes four years after the crash but this would be verified by defense officials.

The company website described the C-295 as “the most capable and versatile transport and surveillance aircraft.”

The air assets is said to be capable of carrying up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots or 480 kilometers per hour.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=607375

113 soldiers test positive for illegal drugs

From Rappler (Jan 20): 113 soldiers test positive for illegal drugs

At least 113 soldiers tested positive for illegal drugs, the Philippine military said on Monday, January 20.

The bulk – 70 of them – comes from the Army, which dominates the 120,000-strong military. The rest are assigned to the Navy, in particular the Marines (18); the Philippine Air Force (12); and the General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo (13).

 

A total of 20,000 soldiers were targetted in the random drug-testing – 8,000 for the Army, 4,000 for the Navy, 4,000 for the Philippine Air Force, and 4,000 from the rest of the units.

 

The number from the Army could increase, however. It has so far only tested 83.6% of its 8,000 target sample.

 

Young soldiers appear to be more susceptible to illegal drugs, the military findings showed. A small majority of 51% come the ranks of Private First Class, Airman 2nd Class, or Seaman 2nd Class.

 

Another 26% are Corporal, Airman 1st Class, or Seaman 1st Class. The rest have the ranks of staff sergeant, sergeant, petty officer 3, petty officer 2, private, airman, seaman.

 

The military's random drug tests identify methamphetamines and cannabis from urine samples submitted by the soldiers.

 

Soldiers who tested positive are not immediately dismissed. They are brought to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for "confirmatory tests." Once PDEA confirms the results, the soldiers will undergo an investigation.

 

The military will step up its anti-drug campaign in 2014, according to military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/48449-soldiers-positive-illegal-drugs

NPA bombs recovered in Southern Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Jan 20): NPA bombs recovered in Southern Philippines

Army officials said troops have recovered dozens of landmines and various materials used in the manufacture of improvised explosives in the southern Philippines.

Officials linked the explosives to the communist rebel group New People’s Army in Agusan del Sur province. The cache of landmines was discovered by civilians in the village of Mansanitas, according to Capt. Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the Eastern Mindanao Command.

Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, the Eastern Mindanao Command chief, praised the bravery of the civilians who informed the military about the explosives.

“We thank our people for their cooperation. Our soldiers are always ready to respond anywhere and whenever needed. If the NPA is sincere about peace, they must stop manufacturing landmines as these kill people and destroy properties,” Cruz said.

He said the discovery came a day after two NPA rebels - Robert Daging and Abet Guinson – surrendered to the 36th Infantry Battalion in Carmen town in the province of Surigao del Sur.

The duo also handed over two automatic rifles. The NPA has been fighting for decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/npa-bombs-recovered-in-southern.html

Philippine provincial police chief ambushed

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Jan 20): Philippine provincial police chief ambushed



Senior Supt. Nickson Muksan in this screen shot from PTV during the 112th anniversary of the Philippine National Police. (Mindanao Examiner)

PAGADIAN CITY – Suspected Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels ambushed a police convoy carrying a provincial police commander and wounded one of his escorts in the southern Philippines, officials said Monday.

Officials said about 20 rebels were involved in the attack which occurred along the highway near the village of Ilian in Lanao del Sur’s Picong town.

Senior Superintendent Nickson Muksan, police commander in Lanao del Sur, was among those ambushed. His police escort PO1 Jerson Muhammad, who is a member of the elite Special Operations Group, was shot and wounded and rushed to hospital in Marawi City.

“We have received reports the ambush was perpetrated by more or less 20 fully armed men, believed to be combined members of the ATGs and the MILF led by a certain (Commander) Umpa,” Capt. Jefferson Somera, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

ATG is the acronym for Auxiliary Threat Group which also refers to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement and its army of so-called freedom fighters.
Army troops were deployed in the town to pursue the ambushers, but did not catch up with them.

Somera said Brig. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad, the division commander, told army commanders in Lanao del Sur to stay on alert following the attack.

The MILF did not give any statement about the ambush and its spokesman Von al-Haq was also not answering phone calls from journalists.
Somera said the motive of the attack is still unknown.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/01/philippine-provincial-police-chief.html