BIFF denies links to al-Qaeda

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 5): BIFF denies links to al-Qaeda

The military’s announcement that it had recovered a flag similar to that used by the al-Qaeda international terrorist group during last week’s Maguindanao clashes was aimed at demonizing the group founded by renegade Moro rebel leader Ameril Umra Kato, the spokesperson of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters said Wednesday.

Abu Misri Mama said this was also aimed at justifying further military actions in Maguindanao as painting the BIFF as an al-Qaeda ally or coddler of international terrorists would make it a terror organization.

“The reality is we are so local and we don’t have alliance with or support from al-Qaeda or any foreign groups,” Mama said, adding that the  military’s claim that two al-Qaeda members had been monitored inside a BIFF camp in Maguindanao before it was seized by soldiers last week was also false.

According to the military among those reportedly monitored in the BIFF camp who might have actually helped fight soldiers was Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Bin Hir alias Marwan.

Marwan, an alleged bomb expert from al-Qaeda’s Southeast Asian arm – Jemaah Islamiyah – is on Washington’s list of top terrorists and has a $5-million price on his head for his alleged involvement in the 2002 Bali bombings in Indonesia that killed 110 foreign nationals.

“We don’t have foreigners in our organization. That’s a big lie,” Mama said.

A local government official in Maguindanao, who is knowledgeable about Islam, said that the use of Black flags dates from the time of the jihad that Prophet Muhammad launched against the so-called unbelievers.

It was known as rayat al-sawda’ (black banner). Several Muslim revolutionary groups, including the self-proclaimed Sunni-led Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, have used it although the modified version which features the shahada or the Muslim pledge to  pray only to Allah and to recognize Muhammad as his prophet is also used by peaceful organizations.

“It is not exclusive to terrorists,” the local official, who did not want to be identified, said.

Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu said what he has heard of the BIFF was that it has been coddling suspects in the Maguindanao massacre.

At least 58 people – mostly media workers – were killed in the Nov. 2009 incident perpetrated by some members of the Ampatuan clan and their private militias.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/574364/biff-denies-links-to-al-qaeda

Canadian frigate in Manila on goodwill visit

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 4): Canadian frigate in Manila on goodwill visit



Canadian Ambassador Neil Reeder visits Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano on Tuesday at the Philippine Navy Headquarters. PHOTO/ NAVY PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE

A Canadian frigate is in Manila on a goodwill visit, the Philippine Navy said Tuesday.

Her Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) “Regina” arrived last Saturday at Pier 15 in South Harbor, Manila and will stay there until Wednesday, said Gregory Gerald Fabic, Navy spokesperson said.

The Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines, Neil Reeder, visited the Navy Headquarters on Tuesday and paid a courtesy call to Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano.

Reeder was joined by Colonel Michel Latouche, Canadian Defense Attaché to the Philippines, and Commander Daniel Charlebois, the commanding officer of “Regina.”

In February last year, “Regina” also visited Manila where they conducted several activities such as professional exchanges and goodwill games with their Philippine Navy counterparts.

The visit aims “to promote stronger military ties and cooperation” between the Philippine Navy and Royal Canadian Navy and strengthen the diplomatic relation between the two countries, Fabic said.

Reeder assured Alano that they would continue to seek ways on how they can assist and help the Navy in its capability and capacity upgrade, adding that they are looking into the possibilities of forging a training collaboration to promote interoperability between the two navies.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/98306/canadian-frigate-in-manila-on-goodwill-visit

Military chiefs of S. Korea, Philippines meet to improve defense ties

From Yonhap News Agency (Feb 5): Military chiefs of S. Korea, Philippines meet to improve defense ties

The military chiefs of South Korea and the Philippines held a meeting on Wednesday to discuss ways to expand cooperation in the military and defense industry, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) here said.

Adm. Choi Yun-hee, JCS Chairman, met with Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to discuss South Korean troops' reconstruction efforts in the typhoon-stricken Southeast Asian nation.

http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2014/02/05/0200000000AEN20140205003600315.html

Kato still calling the shots in BIFF, says spokesman

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 5): Kato still calling the shots in BIFF, says spokesman



Ameril Umbra Kato, seated, the commander of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), the breakaway faction of the largest Filipino Muslim rebel group, is interviewed by the media inside his rebel stronghold in Maguindanao province in southern Philippines. AP FILE PHOTO

Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) leader Ustadz Ameril Umra Kato still calls the shots in the group’s battles against government troops.

This claim was made by the rebel group’s spokesman on Wednesday, in debunking reports that Kato has become paralyzed after suffering a stroke.

Abu Misry Mama, spokesperson of the BIFF, said Kato has been commanding the entire movement, but Muhaiden Animbang alias Kagi Karialan has been directly commanding ground units in the recent clashes in Maguindanao.

“Kato is not there in the fighting, although he is still strong unlike the malicious statements of the military,” Mama said.

Animbang is the chief of staff for the BIFF, according to Mama.
Animbang, who is in his early 40s, studied in Saudi Arabia in his younger years.

Mama also brushed off the claims of the military that a major rebel camp was captured, explaining that it was the house of a BIFF official.

“The military torched his house including a Madrasah (Islamic school).
These soldiers also destroyed our communal rice and corn farm. We built that farm so that we will be self-sufficient without asking help from businessmen,” Mama said.

Meanwhile, Absalom Cerveza, spokesperson of a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) confirmed Wednesday that their forces in Maguindanao have joined forces with the BIFF.

“We still have a large number of fighters in Maguindanao. And because they were also subjected to military operations, they agreed to a tactical alliance with BIFF men,” Cerveza, spokesperson of the Nur Misuari-led MNLF faction, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone.

He, however, could not say how many MNLF forces joined the BIFF.
“I am going to meet their leaders this weekend to find out more information. That’s what’s going to happen in other areas if the military will subject our men to offensives,” he added.

Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said they have started investigating Cerveza’s claims.

“But I think it’s just mere propaganda to get media attention,” He said.

The military carried out the weeklong operation Darkhorse against the BIFF, claiming it killed at least 51 rebels.

On the side of the government, one soldier was killed while 20 others were wounded, while eight civilians who were caught in the crossfire were wounded.

The MNLF-Misuari wing and the BIFF are opposed to the peace talks between the government and the larger Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The BIFF broke away from the MILF in 2008 and has vowed to continue the uprising, claiming that the Malaysian-brokered talks would not lead to a separate Bangsamoro homeland in Mindanao.
 http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/574288/kato-still-calling-the-shots-in-biff-says-spokesman

Hardliner said to be new BIFF head

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 5): Hardliner said to be new BIFF head

The military believes the leader of the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), Ameril Umra Kato, had suffered a stroke and the secessionist group was now under the command of Kato’s right-hand man.

Kato remains the BIFF chieftain but his top aide, Commander Muhaiden Animbang, aka Kagi Karialan, who fought in the recent offensives in Maguindanao and North Cotabato, was now issuing the commands, Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesman of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said on Tuesday.

Hermoso said details were scant about Karialan. “But we know he is a hardliner, hardcore. He’s the one leading now. I don’t know his qualifications,” Hermoso told the Inquirer by phone.

In an offensive dubbed Operation Darkhorse II, the military recently attacked known strongholds of the BIFF, which is opposed to the peace agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Over 50 suspected BIFF fighters were reported killed in the encounter.

Hermoso said government troops recovered an improvised litter and stretcher, as well as medicines from a BIFF camp in Barangay (village) Ganta, Reina Regente, Maguindanao.

“They were able to bring him out right away,” Hermoso said, referring to Kato. Hermoso added that Reina Regente was a huge area that encompassed several villages where the BIFF had established camps, like Ganta and Barangay Bakat.

Hermoso said that Kato was apparently evacuated early on during the offensive that began on Jan. 26.

Hermoso said Kato remained the BIFF leader but “with his health condition—he is already bedridden—he can no longer give commands.”

Hermoso said Kato could not move on his own since suffering a stroke. “It is Karialan who has taken over the older fighter’s duties,” the military officer added.

The military, however, has not been able to lay a hand on either Kato or Karialan.

While Kato and Karialan remain at large, the military said the objective of Operation Darkhorse II had been achieved, which was to dismantle the strongholds of the BIFF.

“We’ve met this objective by being able to capture the camps of the BIFF,” said Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs chief.

Zagala said Operation: Darkhorse II was the continuation of Operation: Darkhorse I, which was launched against the BIFF before September last year.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/574118/hardliner-said-to-be-new-biff-head

Philippines to get Israel's excess defense equipment

From the Philippine Star (Feb 5): Philippines to get Israel's excess defense equipment

Israel has offered to provide excess defense articles to the Philippines, widely regarded as one of the weakest in the region in terms of military capability.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon discussed the matter during a bilateral meeting in Tel Aviv, Israel last week.

“Israel also offered assistance in the development of command, control, communications, computers and intelligence capabilities as well as the availability of excess defense articles for Philippine acquisition,” Defense department spokesman Peter Galvez said in a statement released Wednesday.

Galvez did not say what equipment would be provided by the Israeli government to the Philippines.

Gazmin and Ya’alon also discussed the prospects of information exchange, particularly on terrorism and technology-sharing between their countries.

Earlier, The STAR reported that the Philippines would acquire three air search radars from Israel to boost its monitoring activities in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

The radars will be purchased from state-run Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. – Elta for P2.6-billion. Security officials signed last week an implementation arrangement that would pave way to the purchase.

Part of the deal is the lending by Israel of one radar to address the Philippines’ immediate security needs. The delivery of the three radars is expected within the next two years while the radar to be lent will arrive in a year.

The radars will be used to improve the country’s maritime domain awareness in West Philippine Sea, where increasing Chinese activity has been causing concerns.

Gazmin and Ya’alon also discussed the establishment of a working group to examine the security situation in their countries and to explore efforts to address common concerns.

“The working group will also come up with available solutions with cost considerations in regard to further enhancing the defense capability build-up of the Philippines,” Galvez said.

Gazmin visited Israel upon the invitation of Ya’alon en route to his official visit to the Golan Heights, where the 7th United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) is currently deployed.

The Philippines has been sending peacekeepers to the UNDOF since 2009.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/02/05/1286997/philippines-get-israels-excess-defense-equipment

Phl, US conclude new round of talks on American troops' presence

From the Philippine Star (Feb 5): Phl, US conclude new round of talks on American troops' presence

The fifth round of the talks on the increased rotational presence of American troops in the country ended last week with officials claiming that a “common understanding on key issues” has been achieved.

However, the government, which vowed to be transparent on the negotiations, did not provide specific details in the statement it issued to the media.

“The Philippines and the United States negotiating panels successfully concluded the fifth round of negotiations on enhanced defense cooperation here with both sides arriving at common understanding on key issues such as security and related topics while clarifying their respective views on other matters,” the statement read.

The statement, which was released Wednesday afternoon, merely contained generalities that negotiators have been talking about since the talks started last August.

“The Philippines and the United States negotiating panels reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing their cooperation in the security and related fields, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” it read.

The statement went on to reiterate the much-repeated line that the agreement must be guided by international legal instruments like the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement and consistent with the constitution and existing laws.

Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino, chairman of the Philippine negotiating panel, described the negotiations as "candid yet friendly."

He said the key fundamental principles on Philippine sovereignty and interests were "fully articulated and amplified."

The Philippines and the US negotiators have conducted five rounds of negotiations since August.

In November, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin admitted that the talks on the increased rotational presence have hit an impasse due to the failure of the two panels to reach a deal on temporary US facilities to be set up in the country.

Despite the issues stalling the talks, the Philippine panel remains optimistic about the prospects of the negotiations.

The Philippines and the US have adopted the policy on increased rotational presence amid efforts by China to enhance its presence in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

The agreement with the US was supposed to enable the Philippines to achieve a “minimum credible defense.”

Officials have given assurances that the agreement would not violate existing laws and would not lead to the establishment of permanent US bases.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/02/05/1287048/phl-us-conclude-new-round-talks-american-troops-presence

Maguindanao offers scholarships to BIFF children

From the Manila Times (Feb 5): Maguindanao offers scholarships to BIFF children

Following the granting of locally subsidized scholarships to children of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members, children of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) are given the chance to avail of free schooling under the enlarged grant of the provincial government, officials said Monday.

Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu of Maguindanao said his Maguindanao Program on Educational Assistance and Community Development (MagPeace), which currently serves 4,254 scholars, has expanded to cover children of BIFF members.

Some 200 children of MILF men have enlisted for 2014-2015 scholarships, Mangudadatu said, with each scholar receiving P3,000 monthly.

He said the scholarship program, which he started with a few dozen scholars when he was mayor of Buluan town in 2006, has been “enhanced” to help mainstream reclusive residents of Maguindanao in the Mindanao peace agenda.

Educating the citizenry is an obligation in Islam, Magudadatu said, citing the first Qur’an verse revealed unto Prophet Mohammad that commanded him to “read, read, read . . . in the name of God.”

He said MagPEACE is addressing the illiteracy rate in Maguindanao, which the government claims to be the highest in the country.

Local military and police authorities have lauded the governor’s scholarship offer to Moro rebels, saying that “proper education” was imperative in the face of findings that many minors have been brainwashed in extremist beliefs and eventually recruited as “child combatants.”

In a recent news conference, the Army’s Sixth Infantry Division presented materials showing minor children wielding firearms and undergoing combat training. The materials were recovered from a BIFF camp captured in Shariff Saidona, Maguindanao, after the military’s offensives on the rebel group in January.

http://manilatimes.net/maguindanao-offers-scholarships-to-biff-children/73388/

Army peace teams sent to Guihulngan brgys

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 5): Army peace teams sent to Guihulngan brgys

The 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in northern Negros Oriental has sent off its bayanihan teams to six barangays of Guihulngan City for non-combat operations.

The send-off was held after the flag-raising ceremony at the Guihulngan City Hall Monday, led by Mayor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes, Army officials and city employees.

The teams will be deployed for immersion and stakeholders’ engagement in barangays Linantuyan, Luz, Plagatasanon, Banwage, Balogo and Humay-Humay.

Reyes, assisted by Lt. Col. Willy Isaac, commander of the 11th IB, presented a miniature “bahay kubo”, the symbol of “bayanihan”, to the BT squad leaders. “Bayanihan” is a Filipino word derived from bayan, referring to town, nation, or community, and is commonly used when alluding to community cooperation.

The BTs will be immersed for three to four months, and will act as facilitators for the convergence of efforts with the LGUs, local government agencies and stakeholders to resolve socio-economic issues, and ensure the delivery of basic services in the barangay, a press release from the Army said.

Reyes thanked the 11th IB for its continuous peace and development efforts, that he said, are also in line with his priorities of improving the lives of Guihulnganons, maintaining peace and order, and curbing the insurgency situation.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/February/05/negor3.htm

NPA strength 200 - Aying

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 5): NPA strength 200 - Aying

Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, who supervises the internal peace and security operations in the province, said yesterday that the New People’s Army in Negros Occidental has remained at 200, with the same number of firearms.

Aying, however, admitted that the NPA has managed to establish influence among some Negrenses, by focusing on their vulnerabilities.

He enumerated poverty, lack of education, criminal injustice, lack of security mechanism and access to basic services, among the reasons why the NPA continues to exist.

Aying said the NPA manage to deceive some people to join, in the guise of reforming the society by taking advantage of the vulnerabilities of some people, especially those residing in the countryside.

To their dismay, Aying said, the NPA recruits, who realize the rebel deceptions later, abandon the armed struggle, and return to mainstream society.

Military records show that in Negros Occidental alone, more than 90 rebels have rejoined the mainstream society since 2011.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/February/05/topstory10.htm

NPA claims raid on Sola farm

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 5): NPA claims raid on Sola farm

The Armando Sumayang Command of the New People’s Army Southwest Negros Guerilla Front has claimed responsibility for the raid on an hacienda compound and destruction of properties in Brgy. Camansi, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.

Rebel spokesperson Andrea Guerrero, in a statement the NPA issued, justified the raid at the hacienda of Pablo “Jin “ Sola, claiming that the properties they destroyed, the disarming of security guards and confiscation of sheep, cannot compensate for what the hacienda owner had done to his workers.

The admission of the NPA bolstered the initial assessment of Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, that the rebels were behind the atrocities, although the Sola family had believed otherwise.

The Sola family placed the damage at P600,000.

Guerrero said the successful punitive actions against the Sola family also led to the recovery of five shotguns, a .38 caliber revolver, fragmentation grenade and monocular night vision goggles.

The rebel group also burned a tractor and two guardhouses of the hacienda.
Aying yesterday said that even from the start, they knew that the NPA was behind the hacienda raid, where more than 20 civilians, including children, and security guards were taken as hostages for almost 10 hours, although they were left unharmed later.

Fortunately, he said, not a single member of the Sola family was at the hacienda, when the rebels swooped down on the area, as he believes that something might have happened to them.

Guerrero enumerated the alleged harassment of farm workers, who, he said, had reportedly been threatened with guns, and their houses either destroyed or burned.

Sola, son of the late Kabankalan Mayor Pablo Sola, owns 14 hectares of the 133-hectare property.

Aying said the NPA rides on the issue of the agrarian reform conflict between the workers and the Sola family, to project the idea that they are helping the ordinary people, by using suppression and violence.

Sola said Sunday that some workers, are encroaching on their 14-hectare property and stressed that their property is not covered by the agrarian reform program of the government.

Guerrero also slammed the military for deploying more Army soldiers in the hacienda, claiming that it created fear among the farm workers.

The rebel group also claimed responsibility for the summary execution of CAFGU member Ricky Camacho in Brgy, Magballo, Kabankalan City, and justified the killing of the para-military trooper, who it said, was organizing an intelligence network of the Philippine Army in Brgy. Canlamay, Ilog.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/February/05/topstory4.htm

MILF: BLMI intensifies consultations on Bangsamoro and Basic Law

From the MILF Website (Feb 6): BLMI intensifies consultations on Bangsamoro and Basic Law



The three (3) major components of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI); Extension, Training and Research units are currently working together, merge expertise and exert their energies in series of  public consultations on the envisioned Bangsamoro, the basic law and the peace process with the primary objectives to raise public awareness on all matters that relates to the GPH-MILF peace building efforts.
  

The BLMI activities began at Barangay Kurintem, DOS, Maguindanao on January 15, 2014 attended by local folks and community leaders who have shown the eagerness to learn the progress of the current GPH- MILF peace process, the proposed Bangsamoro Region and the Basic Law being crafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC).

In January 19, another advocacy was also held at Parang, Maguindanao. The BLMI Unit Officers who were at the same the resource speakers stressed the importance of the Framework Agreement and its annexes emphasizing further to their audience that the dividend of peace is inclusive to all residents of the future Bangsamoro region.

On January 25, BLMI personnel held another advocacy engagement at Pagalungan, North Cotabato with the resource speakers focused mainly on the proposed ministerial form of government, political party formation and updates on the peace process.

Another consultation was also undertaken at Kabacan also in North Cotabato on January 26, this time attended by about 1,745 participants as shown in the organizer’s registration sheet. They were composed of professionals, laymen, farmers, traders, women and youth who spent their precious time in listening to the issues presented and elaborated on by the speakers.

On January 27, 2014, the BLMI Extension Service Unit headed by Ustadz Abdulsalam Alabat, a Shari’ah Law expert conducted consultation in Sharif Aguak, Maguindanao and informed local residents the recent progress in the peace process particularly the signing by both panels of the Annex on Normalization and addendum on Bangsamoro Waters and joint cooperation.
Another consultation was also held at Datu Paglas, Maguindanao on January 28 with the same issues on the peace process discussed to the participants.

On January 29, 2014, two advocacy programs were held at Isulan Sultan Kudarat Province and another one at the GJ compound, Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. The speakers delved on issues on political party formation, peace process updates and ministerial form of government.  

This writer who is the BLMI Research Unit officer is currently conducting research work on Moro professionals to come-up with a comprehensive registry of Bangsamoro professionals as ready reference in the future.  

The BLMI advocacy or consultation programs were made possible through strong partnership with community leaders who served as program organizers as well. Coordination with LGU’s, AFP and PNP were also made resulting to the success of the consultation activities that are supported and funded by the Asia Foundation (TAF-Aus-Aid) and Reconciliation Resources (CR-EU).

More BLMI consultation programs are slated to be undertaken in Zamboanga peninsula & island provinces of Western Mindanao.

BLMI will explore the whole Moroland as part of its undying aspiration in installing a shining light of new beginning for the Bangsamoro.  

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/799-blmi-intensifies-consultations-on-bangsamoro-and-basic-law

U.S. diplomat warns China against air defense zone over S. China Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): U.S. diplomat warns China against air defense zone over S. China Sea

A senior U.S. diplomat criticized China on Tuesday for its assertive territorial claims in the East and South China seas and warned it against establishing an air defense identification zone over the latter.

Daniel Russel, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, told a press conference that the U.S. government is concerned by actions that are a provocative assertion of claims "in non-diplomatic and nonlegal ways."

The official was referring to the regulations China recently imposed on fishing boats from other countries in part of the South China Sea.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=612772

New Marine brigade commander vows to support environment protection efforts in Palawan

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): New Marine brigade commander vows to support environment protection efforts in Palawan

Newly-installed 3rd Marine Brigade commander Col. Armando Bañez vowed to support Palawan’s efforts to protect, preserve and conserve its environment.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Bañez, who was the deputy for Marine Operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) before his assignment in Palawan, said that aside from ensuring the residents’ safety against destabilization attempts of members of the leftist movement in the province, they are also duty-bound to provide support to endeavors to protect the environment.

“Our commitment to support efforts to protect Palawan’s environment is long-standing; we will never waiver in this since we know it is important to Palaweños,” Bañez said, adding that since he came to know the province, he also came to know about its peoples’ passion to live with balance with its environment.

His current post in the brigade is not Bañez first stint in the province. In late 90’s, he was among the officers of the 6th Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT 6) until it was sent to Jolo, Sulu in Mindanao for a new assignment.

Bañez recalled that during then, their assignment included protecting Palawan’s forests against unscrupulous individuals in the north and south, who cut down trees unabashedly.

He said he is elated to be back in Palawan that has taught him many things – the people’s kindness and hospitality, their love for the environment, simple living, and “fresh seafood.”

“Here in Palawan, people are so welcoming that you immediately feel you are already a Palaweño. And with that, we commit that we will support their need for their environment to be protected,” he said.

Bañez took over the leadership of the brigade last December from Brigadier General Andrei Costales.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=612902

Indigenous peoples support GPH-MILF quest for Mindanao peace

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): Indigenous peoples support GPH-MILF quest for Mindanao peace

Non-Muslim communities in southern Philippines have expressed optimism the soon to be completed government peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) would bring genuine peace in Mindanao, tribal leaders said Wednesday.

Two tribal leaders, Bae Magdalena Suhat Herbilla, chair of the Council of Elders of the Federation of Matigsalog-Manobo Tribal Council (FEMMATRIC) and Habbas Camendan, deputy chair of Mindanao Peoples Peace Movement (MPPM), in separate statements that their groups are also supportive of Malacanang's peace initiative in southern Philippines.

The two are acknowledged tribal and traditional leaders of the indigenous peoples in Mindanao.

Herbilla said the people of Mindanao, especially the "lumads" desire peace.

With about 30,000 members occupying IP ancestral lands in the towns of North Cotabato and Maguindanao, the group said they are confident the final peace deal will bring economic and cultural development in their communities.

"Any peace deal that bring socio-economic, political and ancestral rights of highland non-Moro communities will have our support," Herbilla said.

Camendan, on the other hand, believed that the peace deal will erase the impression and misconception that they will loose their ancestral lands once the new political Bangsamoro government is established in Mindanao.

He also denied reports that the IPs will take up arms once the final peace deal is signed because they will form part of it and that they are among the beneficiaries the agreement would bring to Mindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=613019

2 hurt as blast hits North Cotabato town

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6): 2 hurt as blast hits North Cotabato town

Two civilians were slightly hurt when an improvised bomb believed to have been planted by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) exploded in Kabacan, North Cotabato Wednesday night, the military here said.

Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said it could be part of the terror attack by the BIFF following their defeat in the army offensive in Maguindanao last week.

The improvised bomb planted in front of a variety store selling liquefied petroleum gas was fashioned from 81-mm mortar with mobile phone as trigger mechanism. It went off past 8:00 p.m.

Police said two students of University of Southern Mindanao were slightly wounded with shrapnel.

The attack came while police and military forces have been placed on alert after the successful campaign against the BIFF in Maguindanao.

Kabacan is a town in North Cotabato situated beside the Liguasan marshland in Maguindanao where the BIFF operates.

It has been subjected to previous bombings by suspected lawless elements, extortion gang and BIFF.

With the recent bombing, additional police and Army checkpoints have been set up in the borders of North Cotabato and Maguindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=613118

1,043 candidates file for Army recruitment program

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): 1,043 candidates file for Army recruitment program

In line with its efforts to recruit quality personnel for its roster, the Zamboanga Del Sur-based 1st Infantry Division announced that 1,043 individuals have applied for its yearly Candidate Soldier (CS) program.

Capt. Jefferson Mamauag, 1st Infantry Division spokesperson, said that applicants are from Zamboanga, Lanao and Basilan.

CS applicants must not be less than five feet in height, possess no physical deformities, tattoo, ear pierced and not color blind, with normal blood pressure and dental health, must pass the PAATB (Philippine Army Aptitude Test Batter) by scoring 80 points.

Major Gen. Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad, Jr., 1st Infantry Division commander, said that only the best and smartest will be recruited in order to carry out the Army’s tradition of service above self, effective community servants, human right protectors, disciplined and motivated, all in keeping with the vision towards “a world-class Army that is a source of national pride."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612718

7th Infantry Division rewards deserving non-commissioned officers

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): 7th Infantry Division rewards deserving non-commissioned officers

Major Gen. Hernando DCA Irriberri, commander of the Nueva Ecija-based 7th Infantry Division, personally awarded the "CLK" (Combat Leaders Knife) to seven deserving non-commissioned officers Tuesday.

The CLK is an emblematic symbol of an NCO carrying exemplary leadership qualities with attitude to seek, absorb and accept responsibility to make his/her unit in the front line more effective and efficient.

Iriberri said that the award highlights the role of the NCOs as the backbone of the Philippine Army

The CLK also shows that NCOs are empowered to handle the daily grind of their respective units of offices administrative and operational functions has been among the Army's top priorities.

Awarded the CLK were Chief Master Sgt. Elpidio V. Calugay,Command Sergeant Major;and other Sergeant Major on line units namely; Master Sgt. Antonio F. Cura of 3rd Infantry Battalion; Master Sgt. Dionisio C. Cameros of 24th Infantry Battalion; Master Sgt. Usodan M. Benasing of 48th Infantry Battalion; Master Sgt. Joselito S. Sotomil of 56th Infantry Battalion; Master Sgt. Rolando L. Cortez of 70th Infantry Battalion; and Master Sgt. Henry G. Claudio of 81st Infantry Battalion.

Besides the awarding of the CLKs, Iriberri also honored Master Sgt. Nilo Triculla of 70th Infantry Battalion, who is retiring this Feb. 16 after almost 35 years of active service.

He was given a Command Plaque in recognition of his utmost dedication and invaluable service rendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines since April 1, 1979.

“The Combat Leader’s Knife is not only an accessory in your uniform, but a symbol of your exemplary performance. May you continue to excel and seek perfection in your chosen field and continue to bring pride to your respective units and the AFP," Iriberri said.

“To the retiring Enlisted Personnel, Master Sergeant Nilo A. Triculla who had served the country for almost 35 years, I am wishing you good luck in facing another chapter of your life. I admire you, for despite of the hardships and challenges of being a soldier, you still able to effectively perform your role as a responsible husband and father to your wife and children. May you continue to bring inspiration to others as you’ve been an inspiration to all of us present here today. Thank you for your utmost dedication, patriotism and services rendered to Army, to the AFP and to our country,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612716

DND chief commends PA's 4th Infantry Division on its 44th founding anniversary

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): DND chief commends PA's 4th Infantry Division on its 44th founding anniversary

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin has commended all the officers and enlisted personnel of the Cagayan De Oro City-based 4th Infantry Division which is celebrating its 44th founding anniversary Wednesday.

“I must commend General (Ricardo) Visaya for the sustained high standard of discipline, training and performance of the officers and men of the 4th Infantry Division. These are the ideal qualities of the troops in the profession of arms," Gazmin said during his visit Wednesday to the Division headquarters.

Gazmin was received by Visayas and members of his staff.

The DND chief also distributed awards and commendations to deserving personnel and other stakeholders.

Civilian personnel commended were Dr. Anna Liza Anoos Lerio, a dental officer of the Department of Education at Surigao City Division, and Mayor Dario E. Otaza of Loreto, Agusan Del Sur.

The 4th Infantry Division also recognized the meritorious achievement of its soldiers. These include Staff Sgt. Francisco L. Gako, recipient of the Gold Cross Medal; Sgt. Ramil C. Alih, Cpl. Marhabpan T. Camendan, Cpl. Eldo E. Omila, Pfc. Antonio C. Abucejo Jr., and CAFGU Active Auxiliary William D. Alaba, all recipients of the Military Merit Medal.

The 401st Infantry Brigade Brigade and 30th Infantry Battalion were adjudged as best brigade and best battalion, respectively, for 2013.

“As we commemorate our 44th founding anniversary, we honor all our predecessors, the diamond troopers and the stakeholders for their contributions in the accomplishments of the Division for the past year,” Visayas said.

“As we continue another year of genuine and dedicated service, I enjoin all the stakeholders and the people of Northern Mindanao to join us, your Army, in building a peaceful and progressive community," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612774

EastMinCom hosts 32nd RP-RI Border Committee Chairmen's Conference in Davao City

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): EastMinCom hosts 32nd RP-RI Border Committee Chairmen's Conference in Davao City

The Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command is hosting the 32nd Republic of the Philippines-Republic of Indonesia (RP-RI) Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference which started Wednesday morning at the Grand Regal Hotel in Davao City.

Capt. Alberto Caber, EastMinCom spokesperson, said this activity is an enabling process that further strengthens mutual commitment for a peaceful resolution of border issues.

He added that the highlight is the signing of a bilateral agreement on the following agenda:

* To grant navigational lane and allow Philippine flag fishing vessels to pass through Indonesian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in going to high seas pocket to conserve time and expenditure.

* To set guidelines with regard to the type and size of vessels and the mandatory safety equipment on board the vessels in crossing the border.

* Extend the area of coordinated patrol operation up to Sulu Islands.

* Modify the concept of operation of coordinated patrol.

* Harmonize border crossing station's standing operating procedures in both Philippines and Indonesia stations.

* Assignment of customs personnel at border crossing stations and restrict transportation of contraband (liquor) across the borders.

“This confidence building measure improves our security relations as evidenced by our willingness to exchange information in order to protect our mutual interest. May I pray for everyone to work together as one team so that we could come up with mutually beneficial solutions to both our concerns. We are hopeful that whatever is finalized in today’s activity will doubly serve our countries and friendship,” Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III said.

Representing the Indonesian side is Indonesia Military Area Command VII Major Gen. Tni Bachtiar.

It can be recalled that the Philippines and Indonesia are both signatories to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas which later created the Regional Fisheries Management Organization and thereafter created the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission with the aims of developing resolutions, conservation and management measures relating to fishing operations in the High Seas at the Pacific Ocean.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612780

Philippine Navy eyes training exercises with Canada

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): Philippine Navy eyes training exercises with Canada 

In line with its efforts to further professionalize its ranks and improve skills, the Philippine Navy (PN) announced Wednesday the possible conduct of training exercises with the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).

Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines, Neil Reeder, has proposed this possibility.

“It was Ambassador Reeder who made the offer...There’s a possibility that we’ll be having exercises in the future...The gateway is now open for training and exercises,” he said.

The two Navies have an existing memorandum of understanding for the conduct of naval exercises signed in 2001 but no training exercise has taken place since.

“We accepted it (Reeder’s offer) because it will give us a chance to learn their tactics, techniques and procedures...They will also learn from us,” Fabic pointed out.

Reeder paid a visit to Navy headquarters in Roxas Boulevard, Manila last Tuesday.

He was received by PN flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano.

Reeder was accompanied by Non-Resident Canadian Defense Attaché to the Philippines, Col. Michel Latouche, and Cmdr. Daniel Charlebois, the commanding officer of Her Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) Regina which arrived at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila Saturday for a port visit until February 5.

The visit aims to promote stronger military ties and cooperation between the PN and Royal Canadian Navy and strengthen the diplomatic relation between the two countries.

Reeder expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm in working with the PN especially in the field of defense cooperation.

He assured Alano that they will continue to seek ways on how they can assist and help the PN in its capability and capacity upgrade.

Reeder also said that they are looking into the possibilities of forging a training collaboration to promote interoperability between the two Navies.

In February last year, HMCS Regina also docked in Manila for a goodwill visit and conducted several activities such as professional exchanges and goodwill games with their PN counterparts.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612823

AFP to set up detachments in former BIFF-controlled areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): AFP to set up detachments in former BIFF-controlled areas

To prevent remnants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) from establishing themselves anew in their camps, which were captured by the military during "Operation Darkhorse" in Maguindanao, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday announced that it will be establishing detachments in these areas.

This was revealed by AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

BIFF camps and training facilities were located in Barangays Bakat, Ganta in Sharif Saydona Mustapha town and Barangays Damabalas and Reina Regente in Datung Piang, Maguindanao.

He added that placing military detachments in the areas would ensure that the BIFF will no longer use the localities as staging points.

"We are already there. We will stay. We will set up our own presence so we can continue clearing the area from BIFF influence. Right now we will put detachments there," he added.

The AFP public affairs office chief stressed that there is no need to reinforce the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division as the latter unit has sufficient personnel and equipment for this kind of duty.

As of this posting, clearing operations against IEDs (improvised explosive devices) are still ongoing, Zagala stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612948

USS Pinckney to arrive in Manila on Friday

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): USS Pinckney to arrive in Manila on Friday

One of the most capable warships in the US Navy, the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG-91), will be arriving at the Manila South Harbor this Friday (Feb. 7).

The latter is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer.

The USS Pinckney will be visiting Manila for a routine port call that highlights the strong historic, community, and military connections between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines.

This visit will allow the ship to replenish supplies as well as give the crew an opportunity for rest and relaxation.

While in Manila, the sailors of the USS Pinckney are very eager to strengthen their understanding of a country with such strong historical ties to the United States.

The USS Pinckney is part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and is homeported in San Diego, California.

The ship is commanded by Cmdr. Frank E. Okata and crewed by approximately 300 sailors, of whom about 10 are Filipino-American.

The ship is named for Cook First Class William Pinckney, who received the Navy Cross for his courageous rescue of a fellow crewmember on board the aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise, during World War II.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=613062

DND chief visits Israeli counterpart in Tel Aviv

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): DND chief visits Israeli counterpart in Tel Aviv

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin paid a visit to his Israeli counterpart, Minister Moshe Ya’alon, in Tel Aviv, Israel resulting in the discussion of several defense and security issues last week.

Gazmin's visit was in response to the Israeli official's request.

During their subsequent meeting, the two officials discussed establishment of a working group to examine the security and defense situation in both countries and explore cooperative efforts to address common concerns.

The working group will also come up with available solutions with cost considerations in regard to further enhancing the defense capability build-up of the Philippines.

Gazmin and Ya’alon also discussed the prospects of information exchange, particularly on terrorism, as well as technology sharing between the two countries.

Israel also offered assistance in the development of Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) capabilities as well as the availability of excess defense articles (EDAs) for Philippine acquisition.

The delegation also visited the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Home Front Command Headquarters, where Gazmin expressed the Philippines’ appreciation for the IDF’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) contributions in the aftermath of Typhoon "Yolanda" in the Philippines in November 2013.

This took place before the DND chief's scheduled visit to the Golan Heights where the 7th Philippine Contingent (7PCGH) to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force is currently deployed.

As a troop contributing country to the UN, the Philippines has been regularly deploying peacekeepers to UNDOF since 2009.

The PCGH is currently the biggest Philippine military contingent deployed to a UN peacekeeping mission.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612932

No word yet on new PA chief but 3 names under consideration - AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): No word yet on new PA chief but 3 names under consideration - AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday announced that it still has no idea who will replace outgoing Army commander, Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes, but stressed that three ranking officials were recommended and forwarded to the Office of the President to replace the latter.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP public affairs office chief, said these names came from the Board Of Generals (BOG).

These officers are Lt. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang of the Northern Luzon Command, Major Gen. John Bonafos of the Central Command and Major Gen. Hernando DCA Iriberri of the 7th Infantry Division.

Zagala said that they have no idea on who among the three will selected as the next Army chief.

"Let us just wait until a decision has been made by President (Benigno S. Aquino III)," he added.

But he hastened to point out that all three are professional and competent military officials.

"I have worked under all three of them and they are all professionals, competent and capable for the task, as all members of the AFP expect they'll be able to bring their own style of leadership," the AFP public affairs office chief stated.

However, Zagala said that there is also a possibility that the Chief Executive may choose outside the names recommended by the BOG.

"Based on the Constitution, the President can choose from the rank of lieutenant colonel and above now, it depends on (whom) the President want," he added.

Zagala said that selecting the next Army commander is a crucial task as the latter is the service most heavily engaged in internal security operations.

The Philippine Army is the largest component of the AFP and is known to host around 80,000 officers and personnel.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612914

PN to recruit 4,000 add'l personnel in 2 years

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): PN to recruit 4,000 add'l personnel in 2 years

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Wednesday announced that it will be recruiting 4,000 additional personnel within the next two years.

This move aims to reduce the lack of personnel currently being experienced by the Navy whose strength is placed at 24,000.

The new recruits are expected to fill up the specialized positions in line with the PN's capacity and capability upgrade.

With this development, PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said that they are now planning to convene at least 100 candidates for Naval Officer Candidate Course (NOCC) and 1,900 candidates for Basic Seaman Course (BSC) this year and next year.

"(The recruitment) will augment personnel of the Navy due to normal attrition and due to manning requirements of upcoming vessels," he added.

Meanwhile, a series of mobile recruitment will be conducted in several PN operational commands such as Naval Forces Northern Luzon in La Union, Naval Forces Southern Luzon in Legaspi, Naval Forces Central in Cebu, Naval Forces West in Palawan, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao in Davao, and Naval Forces Western Mindanao in Zamboanga City.

Likewise, the PN recruitment center at Bonifacio Naval Station in Taguig City has already doubled its schedule of examinations to twice every Thursday from the usual schedule which is once every Thursday.

Fabic said initial requirements are transcript of records, NSO birth certificate, diploma, NBI clearance and 2x2 picture.

Applicants for NOCC must be a natural born Filipino citizens and of good moral character, must be between 21-28 years old, single and graduate of a four-year baccalaureate degree preferably technical course, must have a height of at least 5 feet for both males and females, must not have any pending civil or criminal case, must be physically and mentally fit for training and must pass the AFP Achievement Test Battery, IQ test and Special Written Exams.

On the other hand, applicants for BSC must be between 18-23 years old and holder of at least 72 units or graduate of a two-year vocational course preferably in the technical field.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=612860

Philippine Leader Sounds Alarm on China

From the New York Times (Feb 4): Philippine Leader Sounds Alarm on China



Interview With President Aquino

President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Philippines called for nations around the world to support his country in resisting China. He also talked about the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan.  David Hogsholt for The New York Times

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on Tuesday for nations around the world to do more to support the Philippines in resisting China’s assertive claims to the seas near his country, drawing a comparison to the West’s failure to support Czechoslovakia against Hitler’s demands for Czech land in 1938.

Like Czechoslovakia, the Philippines faces demands to surrender territory piecemeal to a much stronger foreign power and needs more robust foreign support for the rule of international law if it is to resist, President Aquino said in a 90-minute interview in the wood-paneled music room of the presidential palace.

“If we say yes to something we believe is wrong now, what guarantee is there that the wrong will not be further exacerbated down the line?” he said. He later added, “At what point do you say, ‘Enough is enough’? Well, the world has to say it — remember that the Sudetenland was given in an attempt to appease Hitler to prevent World War II.”

Mr. Aquino’s remarks are among the strongest indications yet of alarm among Asian heads of state about China’s military buildup and territorial ambitions, and the second time in recent weeks that an Asian leader has volunteered a comparison to the prelude to world wars.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan caused a stir in Davos, Switzerland, when he noted last month that Britain and Germany went to war in 1914 even though they had close economic ties — much as China and Japan have now.

Japan has been locked in an increasingly tense standoff with China over uninhabited islands in the East China Sea, and even South Korea, which has been quieter about Chinese claims, expressed alarm last year when Beijing announced that it had the right to police the skies above a vast area of ocean, including areas claimed by Japan and South Korea.

While China’s efforts to claim rocks, shoals and fishing grounds off the coast of the Philippines in the South China Sea have been less high-profile, the Chinese have moved faster there.

The Philippines already appears to have lost effective control of one of the best-known places of contention, a reef called Scarborough Shoal, after Philippine forces withdrew during a standoff with China in 2012. The Philippine forces left as part of an American-mediated deal in which both sides were to pull back while the dispute was negotiated. Chinese forces remained, however, and gained control.

In his nearly four years as president, Mr. Aquino, 53, has exceeded expectations in his country and the region for what he would be able to accomplish in a nation once known as the “sick man of Asia.” He was a fairly low-key senator when he was propelled into the presidency in 2010 by a wave of national sympathy after his mother, former President Corazon C. Aquino, died the year before.

Political analysts say that his administration has fought and reduced the corruption that played a role in holding the Philippines back. In one practical measure of that change, the country has been able to pave more roads per 100 million pesos in spending (about $2.2 million) than before — when funds were lost to corrupt officials and incompetence — finally addressing an impediment to commerce.

All of the major credit rating agencies now give the Philippines an investment grade rating, though the recent downturn in share prices and currencies here and in other emerging markets, on fears of further slowing of the Chinese economy, poses an immediate challenge.
In another accomplishment, Mr. Aquino’s negotiators concluded a major peace agreement last month with the main resistance group on Mindanao, the heavily Muslim southern island. Still, the deal remains something of a gamble; it is based in good part on the Muslim group’s ability to hold in check smaller resistance groups, which criticized the pact almost immediately.

Despite those successes, Mr. Aquino was criticized for the country’s slow initial response to last year’s devastating typhoon. He said the storm was so powerful that it overwhelmed the Philippines’ many preparations.

He has also been less aggressive on land reform — the Aquinos are among the country’s biggest landowning families — and he has preferred to shift more of the government’s social spending to poor villages instead. Walden Bello, although a congressman in the president’s governing coalition, said he was one of many who believe that “the lack of real progress on land reform is a real reason why poverty rates have remained” at high levels.

Analysts say the almost feudal power of some entrenched families, including some with militias, is a further obstacle to growth. But Mr. Aquino said he was trying to convince the families that becoming less insular would foster greater prosperity.

Mr. Aquino is prevented by law from seeking re-election when his six-year term expires in 2016, raising uncertainty about whether his changes will continue.

In the wide-ranging interview on Tuesday, Mr. Aquino said he thought the Philippines and the United States were close to a long-delayed deal that would allow more American troops to rotate through the Philippines, enhancing his country’s security. But the subject remains controversial among the political elite in the Philippines, with memories of the country’s past as an American possession making them wary of closer military ties.

The United States is pushing for the deal to aid in its rebalance to Asia, where it hopes to retain a strong influence despite China’s rise.
The Philippines, he said, is determined not to make similar concessions. “You may have the might,” he said of China, “but that does not necessarily make you right.”

Speaking of the Philippines’ own tensions with the Chinese, Mr. Aquino said his country would not renounce any of its possessions in the sea between it and China.

 

China contends that centuries-old maps show that it had an early claim to the South China Sea almost to Borneo. It is trying to use its large and growing fleet to exercise effective control over reefs and islands in the sea, a strategy that could strengthen its legal position.

 

At the same time, China has strongly resisted applying the procedures and numerical formulas of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to the many reefs and islands that lie much closer to countries like the Philippines than to China. Officials in Beijing also oppose multilateral discussions, preferring bilateral talks with individual countries in Southeast Asia, an approach that allows Chinese leaders to apply greater pressure.

 

While China has been improving its military, Mr. Aquino noted that the last flight by a Philippine fighter jet was in 2005 and that the plane dated from before the Vietnam War. Most of the country’s tiny naval and coast guard fleet dates from World War II.

The difficulties with China extend beyond the arguments over the South China Sea. The Hong Kong government, with enthusiastic backing from the Chinese Foreign Ministry in Beijing, plans to stop allowing 14-day visa-free visits by Filipino diplomats and officials starting Wednesday. The sanctions are part of a long-running demand by Hong Kong that the national government of the Philippines apologize over a violent episode in 2010 in which a hostage rescue attempt in Manila failed, leaving eight Hong Kong citizens dead.

In his first public response to the sanctions, Mr. Aquino said he had no plans to apologize, saying that doing so could create a legal liability and noting that China had not paid compensation to the families of Filipinos who have died in episodes there.

Mr. Aquino, who is not married, lives in a small cottage behind the presidential palace instead of in the luxurious palace itself. He said he tries to relax before going to sleep each night either by listening to music — often jazz — or pursuing his passion as an amateur historian, reading military journals, some about World War II.

While recently reading about the predicament of Czechoslovakia’s leaders in the late 1930s, he said, he saw a parallel “in a sense” to his own problems now in facing challenges from China. Appeasement did not work in 1938, he noted; within six months of the surrender of the Sudetenland, Germany occupied most of the rest of Czechoslovakia.
 

 http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/05/world/asia/philippine-leader-urges-international-help-in-resisting-chinas-sea-claims.html?_r=1

 

PH, US 'close' to signing military deal

From Rappler (Feb 5): PH, US 'close' to signing military deal

WAITING FOR UPDATES: The Philippine panel is yet to give updates on the last round of talks. DND file photo

The Philippines and treaty ally United States are close to arriving at a military-to-military agreement allowing the increased presence of American troops in the Philippines and giving them more access to military bases here, a New York Times report quoted President Benigno Aquino III as saying.

"Mr. Aquino said he thought the Philippines and the United States were close to a long-delayed deal that would allow more American troops to rotate through the Philippines, enhancing his country’s security," the US newspaper reported. (READ: Philippine leader sounds alarm on China - New York Times)

Negotiations between the Philippine and US panels resumed last week after an impasse last year. The Philippine panel opposed the US panel's condition that limits Filipino troops' access to temporary facilities that American troops will be building once the access deal is signed. The 2 countries also held informal talks last December. (READ: PH, US bases access talks reach impasse)

"Both sides arrived at common understanding on key issues such as security and related topics while clarifying their respective views on other matters," reads the joint statement of the defense and foreign affairs departments released Wednesday afternoon, Febuary 5.

The statement did not discuss the progress of the negotiations, however. Panel chairman Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino said "key fundamental principles underscoring Philippine sovereignty and interests were fully articulated and amplified."

"The Philippine Negotiating Panel will continue to articulate and promote our national values and interests and will remain guided by the principles of full respect for Philippine sovereignty, non-permanence of US troops and no US basing in the Philippines, mutuality of benefits and respect for the Philippine Constitution, including the prohibition against nuclear weapons," he added.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin earlier said the Philippines will insist on equal access to the facilities. Round 6 of talks will be held in March.

About China

The Philippines has sought the help of the US, a longtime ally, as tension with China over maritime disputes continue escalate. The request coincides with the US "pivot to Asia," a strategy through which the superpower hopes to retain influence in the region.

Aquino said the Philippines will not renounce any of its territory to China.

Aquino also sought the support of nations around the world to back the Philippines' protest against China. He recalled how the world watched as Czechoslovakia was forced to surrender part of its territory to Adolf Hitler in an attempt to prevent World War II.

“If we say yes to something we believe is wrong now, what guarantee is there that the wrong will not be further exacerbated down the line?” Aquino told the New York Times.

“At what point do you say, ‘Enough is enough’? Well, the world has to say it — remember that the Sudetenland was given in an attempt to appease Hitler to prevent World War II," he added.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/49733-philippines-united-states-bases-access