From the Manila Times (Feb 28): Muslim clerics seek peace-building role for Bangsamoro
MARAWI CITY: Groups of ulama (Muslim clerics) here in the south conducted public consultations across Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) seeking the creation of Darul Ifta (Islamic House of Opinion) for ARMM that would play a vital role on peace building.
“We are raising many issues about Muslims in Mindanao, but we never heard about the side of Ulama,” Saad Amate, one of the organizers of Ulama consultations on institutionalization of Regional Darul Ifta for ARMM (RDI-ARMM) that convened first in this city on February 8 and followed up in Zamboanga city on February 16 to 17, told The Manila Times.
Amate said the event was attended by ARMM officials and groups of ulama from different Muslim institutions including armed groups Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and “unanimously” expressed their need over the creation of the RDI-ARMM.
Ulama groups include Muslim Mindanao Ulama Council, Jamio Muslim Mindanao, Jamiyatul Waqf, Kamilul Islam, Jamiatu Marawi Islamic Foundation, Jamio Mindanao Islamic Center, Jama’ah Tablig, and other groups including two giant armed groups MNLF and MILF. Among representatives of the groups are mufti, Amate said.
Mufti is a Muslim cleric leader and issuer of fatwa (Islamic legal pronouncement), which is being followed by their members.
“It is very disturbing to have many mufti, sometimes we do not know whom we will follow,” local folk said in vernacular here.
RDI-ARMM aims to unite and unify ulama from various groups in ARMM under one umbrella institution for them to be in charge of Muslim affairs in ARMM and be involved in the social services, said Department of Education (DepEd) of ARMM for Madaris Undersecretary Alzad Sattar.
Darul Ifta was established largely for spiritual and ritual activities such as khutba (giving sermon), attending funerals, conducting wedding ceremonies, leading of daa (prayers) and gracing kanduri (thanksgiving), but has no greater participation in policymaking and governance since the creation of the ARMM.
Sattar, who attended the event, said “this is now the opportune time for the ulama to play an active role in transforming the society and combat the social menace affecting the community.”
“The time has come for the ulama to think out of the box. Their significant role on moral transformation, peace building, good governance, and socio-economic development should not be undermined,” he said.
During the convergence, the ulama have come up with seven resolutions that to be submitted to the concerned agencies or individuals for appropriate actions.
“A covenant was also signed by the ulama reiterating their commitment and support to the peace processes between the GRP-MNLF and the MILF-GPH respectively,” Sattar said.
One of the resolutions is “urging the Organization of Islamic Coordination (OIC) to immediately convene the Bangsamoro Coordinating Council between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for unity and solidarity among Bangsamoro for peace and development in the Bangsamoro homeland,” Sattar said.
Another resolution is “urging OIC through Peace Council for Southern Philippines, Government of the Republic of the Philippines, MNLF and MILF to convene as quadripartite meeting for unity and solidarity among Bangsamoro.
http://manilatimes.net/muslim-clerics-seek-peace-building-role-for-bangsamoro/79140/
Friday, February 28, 2014
Malaysia’s motive as peace broker under question
From the Manila Times (Mar 1): Malaysia’s motive as peace broker under question
THE Malaysian government has been aggressively pursuing the signing of the peace pact between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for two reasons—its territorial hold on Sabah and the development of Liguasan Marsh in Mindanao, an area rich in gas reserves.
A book published by the Office of Strategic and Special Studies (OSS), the think tank of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), casts suspicion on Malaysia’s real motive for brokering peace between the two camps.
“Doubts by many a Filipino about Malaysia’s role have not been completely dispelled. They suspect that the Malaysians have been supporting Filipino Muslim separatist groups by funding and training their fighters and that brokering a peace agreement favoring them would ultimately favor Malaysia,” wrote University of the Philippines Political Science Prof. Jose Raymund Quilop and Cesar Pobr, in their book, In Assertion of Sovereignty.
The OSS said Malaysia and the MILF were a “tag team” in persuading Manila to giving in to the secessionist group’s demands. The MILF, the book said, was firm in having Malaysia as a peace broker.
Unlike the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), which has vowed to reclaim Sabah, the MILF has assumed a more flexible stand, mainly because Malaysia has been supporting the MILF’s fight.
“The Philippine standing claim over Sabah has been echoed by the MNLF. The MNLF, through its leader Nur Misuari, has expressed its vow to reclaim Sabah. It sees the peace process as a sell-out, with the MILF openly tolerating Malaysia’s sovereignty over Sabah,” the book said.
In February last year, armed followers of the late Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram 3rd occupied a town in Sabah, asserting the Sultanate’s claim on the territory. Kuala Lumpur drove the intruders out after a series of bloody clashes. Misuari, like Kiram and his followers, belong to the Tausug tribe of Muslim Filipinos.
The OSS, which has been providing insights on defense policies and strategies for decades, said Kuala Lumpur wanted a final peace deal with the MILF signed so it could supplant Manila’s 1996 pact with the MNLF.
It said that the MNLF and the Sulu Sultanate’s threat to reclaim Sabah “might have prompted Malaysia to take a more forward step to fast-track the conclusion of a GRP-MILF deal so that it could have precedence over the GRP-MNLF peace deal,” the book said.
Other excerpts from the military-sanctioned document claim that it is likely for the MILF to tap Malaysia as its partner in exploring the vast Liguasan Marsh in Central Mindanao.
Investment opportunities eyed
On Thursday, Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Eduardo Malaya said after the signing of the last annex in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, 13 Malaysian companies visited Cotabato province to explore investment opportunities in the southern region.
The Malaysian firms were the first international business groups to show interest in putting up businesses in Mindanao.
Malaya said the companies are looking at oil palm plantations, rubber manufacturing, halal foods, infrastructure development and light manufacturing as lucrative ventures.
Last month, the Philippine government and the MILF signed the Annex on Normalization that will lead to the decommissioning of the MILF’s armed force and private armies in the proposed Bangsamoro area. It was the last of the four annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which was signed on October 15, 2012.
“I think the focus of the visit would be consolidating peace and supporting the development of Mindanao. Malaysia has been the facilitator of the Mindanao peace process since 2001. In our view, they are invested in that process as we are in the Philippine government,” Malaya told reporters.
“They stayed the course and what is important now that there is a successful conclusion of the peace process is to transform the support and the goodwill from facilitation of the peace process into concrete economic support measure, so that in the words of the Prime Minister—‘the former freedom fighters can be transformed into productive farmers,’” Malaya said.
Arms supplies from Malaysian dealer
The book details how Malaysian funds, guns and ammunitions had found their way into MILF hands in the past.
Documents seized from an overrun MILF camp indicated that MILF vice chairman for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar wanted to buy weapons from a Malaysian arms dealer named Rim Kyu Do. On September 25, 1999, Rim was handed two checks in the amount of $1 million.
“This amount was to be part of a total $2,196,250 as advance payment for the purchase of what appeared to be a Swede-made MSM Type A midget submarine with a Swimmer Delivery Vehicle, SA-16 surface to air missiles and a 30 MM anti-tank cannon,” the book said.
The submarine could be used to transport MILF fighters around the Liguasan Marsh and to attack targets, including the Malampaya gas plant, it said.
The Malaysian arms dealer was able to deliver millions of bullets but the deal subsequently fell through. The government said the deal collapsed because Rim could have run away with the money, or the military offensive against the MILF made the delivery of arms difficult.
Sabah not included in talks
On Thursday, President Benigno Aquino 3rd flew to Malaysia for a two-day state visit.
Before leaving for Kuala Lumpur, the President said he would relay the Philippines’ thanks to Malaysia for helping the survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda. Aquino said Malaysia had given $1 million and sent medical and humanitarian assistance teams to the typhoon-ravaged areas.
He was also scheduled to sign a few agreements during his meeting with top Malaysian officials.
But the thorny Sabah issue is not on the agenda.
“We are confident the visit will promote our interests and deepen our ties with our neighbor while offering more opportunities for Filipinos,” Aquino said.
With him are Secretaries Albert del Rosario of Foreign Affairs, Cesar Purisima of Finance, Gregory Domingo of Trade, peace process adviser Teresita Deles, Lualhati Antonino of the Mindanao Development Authority, Julia Abad of the Presidential Management Staff, Herminio Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, and Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.
http://manilatimes.net/malaysias-motive-as-peace-broker-under-question/79239/
THE Malaysian government has been aggressively pursuing the signing of the peace pact between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for two reasons—its territorial hold on Sabah and the development of Liguasan Marsh in Mindanao, an area rich in gas reserves.
A book published by the Office of Strategic and Special Studies (OSS), the think tank of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), casts suspicion on Malaysia’s real motive for brokering peace between the two camps.
“Doubts by many a Filipino about Malaysia’s role have not been completely dispelled. They suspect that the Malaysians have been supporting Filipino Muslim separatist groups by funding and training their fighters and that brokering a peace agreement favoring them would ultimately favor Malaysia,” wrote University of the Philippines Political Science Prof. Jose Raymund Quilop and Cesar Pobr, in their book, In Assertion of Sovereignty.
The OSS said Malaysia and the MILF were a “tag team” in persuading Manila to giving in to the secessionist group’s demands. The MILF, the book said, was firm in having Malaysia as a peace broker.
Unlike the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), which has vowed to reclaim Sabah, the MILF has assumed a more flexible stand, mainly because Malaysia has been supporting the MILF’s fight.
“The Philippine standing claim over Sabah has been echoed by the MNLF. The MNLF, through its leader Nur Misuari, has expressed its vow to reclaim Sabah. It sees the peace process as a sell-out, with the MILF openly tolerating Malaysia’s sovereignty over Sabah,” the book said.
In February last year, armed followers of the late Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram 3rd occupied a town in Sabah, asserting the Sultanate’s claim on the territory. Kuala Lumpur drove the intruders out after a series of bloody clashes. Misuari, like Kiram and his followers, belong to the Tausug tribe of Muslim Filipinos.
The OSS, which has been providing insights on defense policies and strategies for decades, said Kuala Lumpur wanted a final peace deal with the MILF signed so it could supplant Manila’s 1996 pact with the MNLF.
It said that the MNLF and the Sulu Sultanate’s threat to reclaim Sabah “might have prompted Malaysia to take a more forward step to fast-track the conclusion of a GRP-MILF deal so that it could have precedence over the GRP-MNLF peace deal,” the book said.
Other excerpts from the military-sanctioned document claim that it is likely for the MILF to tap Malaysia as its partner in exploring the vast Liguasan Marsh in Central Mindanao.
Investment opportunities eyed
On Thursday, Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Eduardo Malaya said after the signing of the last annex in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, 13 Malaysian companies visited Cotabato province to explore investment opportunities in the southern region.
The Malaysian firms were the first international business groups to show interest in putting up businesses in Mindanao.
Malaya said the companies are looking at oil palm plantations, rubber manufacturing, halal foods, infrastructure development and light manufacturing as lucrative ventures.
Last month, the Philippine government and the MILF signed the Annex on Normalization that will lead to the decommissioning of the MILF’s armed force and private armies in the proposed Bangsamoro area. It was the last of the four annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which was signed on October 15, 2012.
“I think the focus of the visit would be consolidating peace and supporting the development of Mindanao. Malaysia has been the facilitator of the Mindanao peace process since 2001. In our view, they are invested in that process as we are in the Philippine government,” Malaya told reporters.
“They stayed the course and what is important now that there is a successful conclusion of the peace process is to transform the support and the goodwill from facilitation of the peace process into concrete economic support measure, so that in the words of the Prime Minister—‘the former freedom fighters can be transformed into productive farmers,’” Malaya said.
Arms supplies from Malaysian dealer
The book details how Malaysian funds, guns and ammunitions had found their way into MILF hands in the past.
Documents seized from an overrun MILF camp indicated that MILF vice chairman for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar wanted to buy weapons from a Malaysian arms dealer named Rim Kyu Do. On September 25, 1999, Rim was handed two checks in the amount of $1 million.
“This amount was to be part of a total $2,196,250 as advance payment for the purchase of what appeared to be a Swede-made MSM Type A midget submarine with a Swimmer Delivery Vehicle, SA-16 surface to air missiles and a 30 MM anti-tank cannon,” the book said.
The submarine could be used to transport MILF fighters around the Liguasan Marsh and to attack targets, including the Malampaya gas plant, it said.
The Malaysian arms dealer was able to deliver millions of bullets but the deal subsequently fell through. The government said the deal collapsed because Rim could have run away with the money, or the military offensive against the MILF made the delivery of arms difficult.
Sabah not included in talks
On Thursday, President Benigno Aquino 3rd flew to Malaysia for a two-day state visit.
Before leaving for Kuala Lumpur, the President said he would relay the Philippines’ thanks to Malaysia for helping the survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda. Aquino said Malaysia had given $1 million and sent medical and humanitarian assistance teams to the typhoon-ravaged areas.
He was also scheduled to sign a few agreements during his meeting with top Malaysian officials.
But the thorny Sabah issue is not on the agenda.
“We are confident the visit will promote our interests and deepen our ties with our neighbor while offering more opportunities for Filipinos,” Aquino said.
With him are Secretaries Albert del Rosario of Foreign Affairs, Cesar Purisima of Finance, Gregory Domingo of Trade, peace process adviser Teresita Deles, Lualhati Antonino of the Mindanao Development Authority, Julia Abad of the Presidential Management Staff, Herminio Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, and Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.
http://manilatimes.net/malaysias-motive-as-peace-broker-under-question/79239/
Security alert for Sulu delegation to Sabah
The Sun Daily (Feb 27): Security alert for Sulu delegation to Sabah
Police are closely monitoring entry points in Sabah following an intelligence report that claimed a delegation led by chieftains of the defunct Sulu Sultanate in South Philippines were making plans to visit the state to meet local Suluk leaders.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said today that police are investigating what their intentions are to enter the state.
"That is the information we received and we are not sure what they are up to. Maybe to meet some individuals here, but we are monitoring the situation and will take action if the need arises." he said.
The defunct Sulu Sultanate, led by their late chieftain Jamalul Kiram who was behind the Lahad Datu incursion in February last year, had sent an army of about 250 men to the state in a bid to lay claim to Sabah.
Meanwhile, Khalid rebutted a news report that 60 of his men, including senior officers, are under a high-profile probe by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for corruption involving millions of ringgit.
"I met Abu Kassim (MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed) on Wednesday and he told me the news report was false, it is not true.So I do not know where the Malaysian Insider got all this information. Maybe they got it from a 'tukang kebun' (gardener) or so and decided to run the story.
"Such reporting is not right." he said after a function with ex-senior police officers at the Jalan Semarak police training centre.
However, Khalid admitted that there are several policemen, including a senior officer, who are being investigated by the MACC for graft and abuse of power.
On another matter, Khalid said police are aware of the recent rise in shooting cases and have taken step to counter the problem.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/971393
Police are closely monitoring entry points in Sabah following an intelligence report that claimed a delegation led by chieftains of the defunct Sulu Sultanate in South Philippines were making plans to visit the state to meet local Suluk leaders.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said today that police are investigating what their intentions are to enter the state.
"That is the information we received and we are not sure what they are up to. Maybe to meet some individuals here, but we are monitoring the situation and will take action if the need arises." he said.
The defunct Sulu Sultanate, led by their late chieftain Jamalul Kiram who was behind the Lahad Datu incursion in February last year, had sent an army of about 250 men to the state in a bid to lay claim to Sabah.
Meanwhile, Khalid rebutted a news report that 60 of his men, including senior officers, are under a high-profile probe by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for corruption involving millions of ringgit.
"I met Abu Kassim (MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed) on Wednesday and he told me the news report was false, it is not true.So I do not know where the Malaysian Insider got all this information. Maybe they got it from a 'tukang kebun' (gardener) or so and decided to run the story.
"Such reporting is not right." he said after a function with ex-senior police officers at the Jalan Semarak police training centre.
However, Khalid admitted that there are several policemen, including a senior officer, who are being investigated by the MACC for graft and abuse of power.
On another matter, Khalid said police are aware of the recent rise in shooting cases and have taken step to counter the problem.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/971393
CPP/NPA: Philippine Army, hinaras 4 sugatan
Posted to the CPP Website (Feb 25): Philippine Army, hinaras 4 sugatan (Philippine Army, harassed 4 injured)
Military denies caught extortion suspects are soldiers
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 28): Military denies caught extortion suspects are soldiers
The military on Friday denied that the two persons posing as members of the Philippine Army and were arrested in Nueva Ecija early this week were part of its roster of troops.
“Per verification and as a result of the [Armed Forces of the Philippines] investigation, alleged Lt. Morales and his cohort are not members of the AFP,” said Major Emmanuel Garcia, spokesperson of the 1st Civil Relations Group.
The two were arrested in an entrapment operation on Maharlika Highway in Cabanatuan City early this week. They introduced themselves as First Lieutenant Darrel Silva Morales and Jose Angeles Suva Viola II, an enlisted personnel.
The suspects had AFP IDs, firearms, mobile phones and cash when they were arrested.
An entrapment operation was made after police received reports of extortion involving the two.
“Cases of robbery and usurpation of authority have been filed against the suspects.
Said personalities are members of a larger syndicate and criminal group operating in Nueva Ecija,” Garcia said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/581279/military-denies-caught-extortion-suspects-are-soldiers
The military on Friday denied that the two persons posing as members of the Philippine Army and were arrested in Nueva Ecija early this week were part of its roster of troops.
“Per verification and as a result of the [Armed Forces of the Philippines] investigation, alleged Lt. Morales and his cohort are not members of the AFP,” said Major Emmanuel Garcia, spokesperson of the 1st Civil Relations Group.
The two were arrested in an entrapment operation on Maharlika Highway in Cabanatuan City early this week. They introduced themselves as First Lieutenant Darrel Silva Morales and Jose Angeles Suva Viola II, an enlisted personnel.
The suspects had AFP IDs, firearms, mobile phones and cash when they were arrested.
An entrapment operation was made after police received reports of extortion involving the two.
“Cases of robbery and usurpation of authority have been filed against the suspects.
Said personalities are members of a larger syndicate and criminal group operating in Nueva Ecija,” Garcia said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/581279/military-denies-caught-extortion-suspects-are-soldiers
Army Special Forces gets gold in Anvil Awards
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 27): Army Special Forces gets gold in Anvil Awards
AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Lt Col Ramon P Zagala (middle), Perk Comm’s Benjor Catindig(3rd from right), and Infinit-1’s Ms Sony Jalandoni (3rd from left) received the Anvil Award of Merit during the 49th Anvil Awards held yesterday, February 26 for the coffeetable book, “Philippine Army Special Forces: 50 Years of Valiant Service” published in line with the 50th Anniversary of the Special Forces Regiment/ AFP PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
That “special” branding just got even better.
Considered as one unorthodox fighting unit of the Philippine Military, the Army Special Forces just got another winning
card, this time on the public relations battlefield.
After publishing a book to commemorate its 50th anniversary, the Army Special Forces won an Anvil Award for Merit at the 49th Anvil Awards Wednesday night at the Solaire Resort and Casino.
Titled “Philippine Army Special Forces: 50 Years of Valiant Service,” the coffee-table book features the 50 years of the Special Forces and its battles that made the regiment an elite brotherhood and one of the best regiments in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“I can’t describe the feeling for the recognition of our hardwork, and I’m very happy because we were recognized,” AFP Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Raymond Zagala said. “It’s surreal, I never expected that the book will win an award.”
He said that the book has not only met the expectations of others, but was also worthy to chronicle the history of the Special Forces.
“It is an enormous task,” said Zagala whose Special Forces had former president Fidel V. Ramos as its first commander. “The expectation that’s on our shoulder was to create something worthy of the anniversary of the courage and determination of the Special Forces.”
Narratives and stories from the frontlines and the veterans that lived it are featured in the book.
Zagala said that the book will shed light on the Special Forces’ history and its main goal for the country, to defend its sovereignty and its people.
Though the Special Forces is looked upon as one tough brotherhood, the book gives the human, and sometimes quirky, side of the honored men sporting the green berets.
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/152620/army-special-forces-gets-gold-in-anvil-awards
AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Lt Col Ramon P Zagala (middle), Perk Comm’s Benjor Catindig(3rd from right), and Infinit-1’s Ms Sony Jalandoni (3rd from left) received the Anvil Award of Merit during the 49th Anvil Awards held yesterday, February 26 for the coffeetable book, “Philippine Army Special Forces: 50 Years of Valiant Service” published in line with the 50th Anniversary of the Special Forces Regiment/ AFP PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
That “special” branding just got even better.
Considered as one unorthodox fighting unit of the Philippine Military, the Army Special Forces just got another winning
card, this time on the public relations battlefield. After publishing a book to commemorate its 50th anniversary, the Army Special Forces won an Anvil Award for Merit at the 49th Anvil Awards Wednesday night at the Solaire Resort and Casino
. Titled “Philippine Army Special Forces: 50 Years of Valiant Service,” the coffee-table book features the 50 years of the Special Forces and its battles that made the regiment an elite brotherhood and one of the best regiments in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“I can’t describe the feeling for the recognition of our hardwork, and I’m very happy because we were recognized,” AFP Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Raymond Zagala said. “It’s surreal, I never expected that the book will win an award.”
He said that the book has not only met the expectations of others, but was also worthy to chronicle the history of the Special Forces.
“It is an enormous task,” said Zagala whose Special Forces had former president Fidel V. Ramos as its first commander. “The expectation that’s on our shoulder was to create something worthy of the anniversary of the courage and determination of the Special Forces.”
Narratives and stories from the frontlines and the veterans that lived it are featured in the book.
Zagala said that the book will shed light on the Special Forces’ history and its main goal
for the country, to defend its sovereignty and its people. Though the Special Forces is looked upon as one tough brotherhood, the book gives the human, and sometimes quirky, side of the honored men sporting the green berets.
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/152620/army-special-forces-gets-gold-in-anvil-awards
Korean troops focus on repair of facilities used by children
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): Korean troops focus on repair of facilities used by children
TheRepublic
of Korea
Colonel Chulwon Lee, commander of the "Araw" Force, reasoned out that children are the future of the nation when asked by members of the media as to their desire to repair school buildings.
There are 82 damaged school buildings inLeyte 's
three towns covered by their rehabilitation operation as stipulated in the
agreement between the South Korean government and Philippine government.
However, they will only repair 60 school buildings during their one-year stay inLeyte province.
When they arrived to the province for assessment, they immediately saw the destruction caused by typhoon "Yolanda" toEastern
Visayas . They felt worried on its effect to children thus, they
immediately focused in reconstructing damage school buildings in the towns of
Tanauan, Palo and Tolosa and the Leyte
Provincial Hospital
The troops had already finished rehabilitating five schoolbuildings of the Tanauan 1 Central School in Tanauan,Leyte
visited by President Benigno S. Aquino on Tuesday.
Some facilities of theLeyte
Provincial Hospital
When asked if they will honor the request of local governments and school officials to repair school buildings that are not included in the agreement, Lee replied that they have to stick with the agreement for security reasons.
He added that if there are officials from local government units who would ask them to stay longer after the agreement expires this December 14, they are willing to do so but this must have consent from the Philippine government.
Col. Lee also stressed that their presence in the country is not only to help victims of typhoon "Yolanda" but to repay the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers who helped their government fight against the communist government ofNorth Korea
Without the help of more than 7,000, the freedom that South Korean people have right now is impossible, said Lee.
They are now repairing the damaged houses of three Filipino veterans of Korean war as their way of showing deep gratitude to the former soldiers.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620925
The
Colonel Chulwon Lee, commander of the "Araw" Force, reasoned out that children are the future of the nation when asked by members of the media as to their desire to repair school buildings.
There are 82 damaged school buildings in
However, they will only repair 60 school buildings during their one-year stay in
When they arrived to the province for assessment, they immediately saw the destruction caused by typhoon "Yolanda" to
The troops had already finished rehabilitating five schoolbuildings of the Tanauan 1 Central School in Tanauan,
Some facilities of the
When asked if they will honor the request of local governments and school officials to repair school buildings that are not included in the agreement, Lee replied that they have to stick with the agreement for security reasons.
He added that if there are officials from local government units who would ask them to stay longer after the agreement expires this December 14, they are willing to do so but this must have consent from the Philippine government.
Col. Lee also stressed that their presence in the country is not only to help victims of typhoon "Yolanda" but to repay the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers who helped their government fight against the communist government of
Without the help of more than 7,000, the freedom that South Korean people have right now is impossible, said Lee.
They are now repairing the damaged houses of three Filipino veterans of Korean war as their way of showing deep gratitude to the former soldiers.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620925
Despite harassment of fishermen, PHL will not deploy Coast Guard to disputed shoal
From GMA News (Feb 28): Despite harassment of fishermen, PHL will not deploy Coast Guard to disputed shoal
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/350609/news/nation/despite-harassment-of-fishermen-phl-will-not-deploy-coast-guard-to-disputed-shoal
There are no
plans to deploy Coast Guard personnel to the disputed Scarborough
(Panatag) Shoal despite the alleged harassment of Filipino fishermen there by
Chinese authorities, Malacañang said Friday.
During a press conference, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said she is not aware of any directive from President Benigno Aquino III to send the Coast Guard to the shoal. The also said thePhilippines
"In fact, the chief of staff of the Armed Forces had already mentioned this that due to the fact that the government, or at least, this particular administration has already adopted the policy of settling the dispute peacefully and under the rule of law, we will abide by that pact—obviously referring to the case that we filed before the arbitral tribunal," Valte said.
"As such all the agencies that may have something to do with the particular claim are already—have already been long advised of what to—on how to go about this," she added.
But she noted that Coast Guard vessels continue to patrol the country's waters.
"That’s normal and that’s regular," Valte said, although admitting they cannot surround the entire country at the same time given certain limitations.
Valte also said it is still the call of the secretary of the Department of National Defense whether to deploy vessels to certain areas.
The Palace official issued the statement after ACT-Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio said the Coast Guard’s presence in the shoal might deter Chinese authorities from harassing Filipino fishermen in the disputed waters.
During a press conference, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said she is not aware of any directive from President Benigno Aquino III to send the Coast Guard to the shoal. The also said the
"In fact, the chief of staff of the Armed Forces had already mentioned this that due to the fact that the government, or at least, this particular administration has already adopted the policy of settling the dispute peacefully and under the rule of law, we will abide by that pact—obviously referring to the case that we filed before the arbitral tribunal," Valte said.
"As such all the agencies that may have something to do with the particular claim are already—have already been long advised of what to—on how to go about this," she added.
But she noted that Coast Guard vessels continue to patrol the country's waters.
"That’s normal and that’s regular," Valte said, although admitting they cannot surround the entire country at the same time given certain limitations.
Valte also said it is still the call of the secretary of the Department of National Defense whether to deploy vessels to certain areas.
The Palace official issued the statement after ACT-Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio said the Coast Guard’s presence in the shoal might deter Chinese authorities from harassing Filipino fishermen in the disputed waters.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/350609/news/nation/despite-harassment-of-fishermen-phl-will-not-deploy-coast-guard-to-disputed-shoal
Gov't, MILF to ink final peace pact 'end of March'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): Gov't, MILF to ink final peace pact 'end of March'
The Philippine government and Muslim rebels will sign a peace deal to end one of Asia's longest and deadliest insurgencies "by the end of March," Malaysia's prime minister said Friday, February 28, after meeting his Filipino counterpart.
The Philippine government and Muslim rebels will sign a peace deal to end one of Asia's longest and deadliest insurgencies "by the end of March," Malaysia's prime minister said Friday, February 28, after meeting his Filipino counterpart.
Prime Minister Najib Razak said President Benigno Aquino invited him to witness the ceremony when "the comprehensive agreement is due to be signed by the end of March."
An official in the office of Aquino's adviser on the peace negotiations confirmed the signing was targeted for the end of next month though no exact date has been set.
"The successful conclusion of the Mindanao peace process... makes possible the empowerment of all the peoples of Mindanao," Aquino told reporters referring to the southern Philippine state where a decades-long rebellion has killed more than 150,000, mostly civilians.
Aquino was speaking to reporters in Malaysia's administrative capital Putrajaya on his first visit to the neighboring country.
The Philippine government and the 12,000-member Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) completed negotiations in January for a comprehensive peace agreement that will give rise to a new political entity to be known as the Bangsamoro.
Muslim-majority Malaysia hosted the negotiations.
The deal aims to end an insurgency that began in the 1970s, killed tens of thousands and left large parts of the fertile southern Philippines mired in violence-plagued poverty.
But even Aquino's peace chiefs have warned that the toughest stages, including implementing the deal, are yet to come after 18 years of stop-start negotiations.
They also include stamping out threats from renegade guerrillas and getting the support of hostile politicians and the nation's highest court.
Malaysia, Philippines agree on peaceful settlement of disputes in South China Sea (West Philippine Sea)tle
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): Malaysia, Philippines agree on peaceful settlement of disputes in South China Sea (West Philippine Sea)
PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Feb. 28 (PNA/Xinhua) -- Philippine President Benigno Aquino III said here Friday that Malaysia and the Philippines agreed on the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) in accordance with the rule of law and United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He made the remarks at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, adding that both countries believed their potential to prosper could only be fully realized in the international context where the rule of law was upheld.
"We believe that adherence to the rule of law, positive engagement and sincere dialogue are fundamental if we are to build a truly prosperous and peacefulSoutheast Asia , where no one is left
behind," he said.
Aquino said the two leaders reviewed many aspects of defense relations, particularly the educational and training exchanges between the armed forces and defense officials, as well as continued joint training activities and intelligence exchange.
He said both countries would be examining the progress of several initiatives and cooperation during the 8th Philippines- Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting, which would take place this year.
Aquino is on a two-day visit toMalaysia
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=620944
PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Feb. 28 (PNA/Xinhua) -- Philippine President Benigno Aquino III said here Friday that Malaysia and the Philippines agreed on the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) in accordance with the rule of law and United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He made the remarks at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, adding that both countries believed their potential to prosper could only be fully realized in the international context where the rule of law was upheld.
"We believe that adherence to the rule of law, positive engagement and sincere dialogue are fundamental if we are to build a truly prosperous and peaceful
Aquino said the two leaders reviewed many aspects of defense relations, particularly the educational and training exchanges between the armed forces and defense officials, as well as continued joint training activities and intelligence exchange.
He said both countries would be examining the progress of several initiatives and cooperation during the 8th Philippines- Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting, which would take place this year.
Aquino is on a two-day visit to
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=620944
Army holds caravan for peace at La Castellana, Negros Occidental
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): Army holds caravan for peace at La Castellana, Negros Occidental
The 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, together with the 302nd Infantry Brigade and 303rd Infantry Brigade in collaboration with the provincial government of Negros Occidental headed by Governor Alfredo Marañon, has initiated a Caravan for Peace and Development at Barangay Puso in La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
The activity is a one-stop-shop Medical Mission which includes medical consultations, giving of medicines, dental service, haircut, massage, circumcision, fruit-bearing seedlings, and vegetables seedling this past weekend, a media release on Thursday said.
The caravan was also attended by the different representatives of provincial departments and offices to provide information and livelihood programs to the populace of the said barangay.
A total of 1,273 beneficiaries from Barangay Puso had availed of the free services to include medical consultation (52), tooth extraction, (10), distribution of coffee seedlings (800), free haircut (47), circumcision (31), massage (33), and assorted non-food stuff (300).
The beneficiaries also received one bag of rice and goods as well.
Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, 302nd brigade commander based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said the that Armed Forces of the Philippines will continue to support and facilitate peace initiatives of the government in attaining peace, security and development in the community.
“I persuade everyone to cooperate with the government so that peace and order will rule in the area,” he was quoted as saying in the media release.
Lt. Col. Wilfredo Isaac, commanding officer of the 11th IB in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, said that the Army actively supports, advocates, and participates in peace-building in the country.
He also stressed that “we should actively advocate peace and work together to put forward the agenda of peace among the people”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620938
The 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, together with the 302nd Infantry Brigade and 303rd Infantry Brigade in collaboration with the provincial government of Negros Occidental headed by Governor Alfredo Marañon, has initiated a Caravan for Peace and Development at Barangay Puso in La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
The activity is a one-stop-shop Medical Mission which includes medical consultations, giving of medicines, dental service, haircut, massage, circumcision, fruit-bearing seedlings, and vegetables seedling this past weekend, a media release on Thursday said.
The caravan was also attended by the different representatives of provincial departments and offices to provide information and livelihood programs to the populace of the said barangay.
A total of 1,273 beneficiaries from Barangay Puso had availed of the free services to include medical consultation (52), tooth extraction, (10), distribution of coffee seedlings (800), free haircut (47), circumcision (31), massage (33), and assorted non-food stuff (300).
The beneficiaries also received one bag of rice and goods as well.
Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, 302nd brigade commander based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said the that Armed Forces of the Philippines will continue to support and facilitate peace initiatives of the government in attaining peace, security and development in the community.
“I persuade everyone to cooperate with the government so that peace and order will rule in the area,” he was quoted as saying in the media release.
Lt. Col. Wilfredo Isaac, commanding officer of the 11th IB in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, said that the Army actively supports, advocates, and participates in peace-building in the country.
He also stressed that “we should actively advocate peace and work together to put forward the agenda of peace among the people”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620938
3 police officers hurt in NPA ambush in Surigao del Sur
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): 3 police officers hurt in NPA ambush in Surigao del Sur
Three police personnel were hurt in an ambush perpetrated by a heavily armed group believed to be members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) as they were on their way to assist in the confiscation of illegal forest products discovered at a remote village in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Thursday afternoon.
Reports from the Surigaodel Lianga
The ambuscade resulted accordingly to the wounding of the three members of the 131st RPSC identified as Police Officer 2 Arwin F. Dela Cruz, who was hit at his upper right arm; Police Officer 2 Alejandrino M. Intas, who was hit at his right leg and Police Officer 1 Mark Sherwin M. Castrodez, who was also hit at his right leg.
The police report said that the RPSC personnel came from their base at Cutlog, Barobo, Surigao del Sur and were on their way to Lianga town of the said province to respond to a request for assistance from OIC CENRO Hernan P. Ramirez, to verify and confiscate some forest products reportedly found at Barangay Gata, San Agustin in Surigao del Sur.
The three wounded policemen were rushed toD.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620932
Three police personnel were hurt in an ambush perpetrated by a heavily armed group believed to be members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) as they were on their way to assist in the confiscation of illegal forest products discovered at a remote village in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Thursday afternoon.
Reports from the Surigao
The ambuscade resulted accordingly to the wounding of the three members of the 131st RPSC identified as Police Officer 2 Arwin F. Dela Cruz, who was hit at his upper right arm; Police Officer 2 Alejandrino M. Intas, who was hit at his right leg and Police Officer 1 Mark Sherwin M. Castrodez, who was also hit at his right leg.
The police report said that the RPSC personnel came from their base at Cutlog, Barobo, Surigao del Sur and were on their way to Lianga town of the said province to respond to a request for assistance from OIC CENRO Hernan P. Ramirez, to verify and confiscate some forest products reportedly found at Barangay Gata, San Agustin in Surigao del Sur.
The three wounded policemen were rushed to
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=620932
1,450 examinees pass PMA entrance
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): 1,450 examinees pass PMA entrance exams
Only 1,450 examinees -- 952 males and 498 females -- out of 12,195 applicants passed the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Cadet Qualification Test given last Aug. 25, PMA spokesperson Major Agnes Lynnette Flores announced on Friday.
Flores said of the 12,195 examinees, only
11,978 were able to complete the test which was held in 37 examination centers
nationwide.
She said the next phase of the selection process for PMA Cadetship is the complete physical examination to be conducted at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center, where they will be made to undergo medical, psychological and physical examination to determine their fitness to undergo the four-year military training in the country's most prestigious military school.
After the series of examinations, the PMA Cadet Procurement Board will deliberate and select the most qualified candidates to compose PMA Class of 2018.
Flores said these individuals are expected
to report to the PMA on April 1 for the oath-taking ceremony and reception rites.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620776
Only 1,450 examinees -- 952 males and 498 females -- out of 12,195 applicants passed the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Cadet Qualification Test given last Aug. 25, PMA spokesperson Major Agnes Lynnette Flores announced on Friday.
She said the next phase of the selection process for PMA Cadetship is the complete physical examination to be conducted at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center, where they will be made to undergo medical, psychological and physical examination to determine their fitness to undergo the four-year military training in the country's most prestigious military school.
After the series of examinations, the PMA Cadet Procurement Board will deliberate and select the most qualified candidates to compose PMA Class of 2018.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620776
President Aquino thanks Malaysian gov’t for support in peace talks, 'Yolanda' recovery
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 29): President Aquino thanks Malaysian gov’t for support in peace talks, 'Yolanda' recovery
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday thanked the Malaysian government for showing support to the Philippines in facilitating peace talks and giving aid in wake of typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan).
In his speech during the joint press conference with His Excellency Najib Razak, the President said he was grateful to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister and the people ofMalaysia
He said the welcome was extended not only to him and his delegation but also, and more importantly, to the thousands of Filipinos who live and work inMalaysia
President Aquino noted that thePhilippines
and Malaysia
“I wish to thank Your Excellency for the significant support your government has demonstrated in facilitating and hosting the peace talks between my government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),” the President said.
He said the successful conclusion of theMindanao
peace process “finds root in the determination of both our peoples to
strengthen the foundations of peace and justice.”
“This makes possible the empowerment of all the peoples ofMindanao ,”
he added. “I look forward to welcoming Your Excellency in Manila
The President also thanked the Malaysian government for the solidarity the people ofMalaysia
“Your Excellency, I speak on behalf of our people when I say: the Filipino people will never forget an act of kindness. On behalf of my countrymen, please accept my sincerest gratitude: Terimah Kasi. Maraming salamat,” he said.
President Aquino also said that the meeting between two governments “reflects the respect and friendship that peoples with a shared and inextricable history accord one another.”
“Truly, our ancestors would have been proud to see their sons and daughters banding together to realize a common vision: Citizens empowered to live dignified and productive lives, so that they themselves may help open the doors of even greater opportunity for their fellow Filipinos and Malaysians,” the President said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620851
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday thanked the Malaysian government for showing support to the Philippines in facilitating peace talks and giving aid in wake of typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan).
In his speech during the joint press conference with His Excellency Najib Razak, the President said he was grateful to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister and the people of
He said the welcome was extended not only to him and his delegation but also, and more importantly, to the thousands of Filipinos who live and work in
President Aquino noted that the
“I wish to thank Your Excellency for the significant support your government has demonstrated in facilitating and hosting the peace talks between my government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),” the President said.
He said the successful conclusion of the
“This makes possible the empowerment of all the peoples of
The President also thanked the Malaysian government for the solidarity the people of
“Your Excellency, I speak on behalf of our people when I say: the Filipino people will never forget an act of kindness. On behalf of my countrymen, please accept my sincerest gratitude: Terimah Kasi. Maraming salamat,” he said.
President Aquino also said that the meeting between two governments “reflects the respect and friendship that peoples with a shared and inextricable history accord one another.”
“Truly, our ancestors would have been proud to see their sons and daughters banding together to realize a common vision: Citizens empowered to live dignified and productive lives, so that they themselves may help open the doors of even greater opportunity for their fellow Filipinos and Malaysians,” the President said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620851
2 PN officers to participate in RIMPAC
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 28): 2 PN officers to participate in RIMPAC
Two Philippine Navy (PN) officers are set to participate in this year's RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise).
Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said the unnamed officers will be attending the RIMPAC planning conference inCalifornia
"And the same officers will be attending the actual exercises (off)Hawaii
And when asked whether these PN officials will be observing the exercises aboard one of the naval vessels, Fabic said this will be determined during the planning conference.
"Usually they join other staff in (US Pacific Fleet) headquarters (inPearl Harbor , Hawaii
RIMPAC is the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise.
It is held biennially during June and July of even-numbered years fromHonolulu , Hawaii
It is hosted and administered by the United States Navy's Pacific Fleet, headquartered atPearl Harbor , in conjunction
with the Marine Corps, the Coast Guard, and Hawaii National Guard forces under
the control of the Governor of Hawaii.
TheUS invites allied
military forces from the Pacific Rim nations
to participate.
With RIMPAC the United States Pacific Command seeks to enhance interoperability betweenPacific Rim armed
forces, ostensibly as a means of promoting stability in the region to the
benefit of all participating nations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620989
Two Philippine Navy (PN) officers are set to participate in this year's RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise).
Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said the unnamed officers will be attending the RIMPAC planning conference in
"And the same officers will be attending the actual exercises (off)
And when asked whether these PN officials will be observing the exercises aboard one of the naval vessels, Fabic said this will be determined during the planning conference.
"Usually they join other staff in (US Pacific Fleet) headquarters (in
RIMPAC is the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise.
It is held biennially during June and July of even-numbered years from
It is hosted and administered by the United States Navy's Pacific Fleet, headquartered at
The
With RIMPAC the United States Pacific Command seeks to enhance interoperability between
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620989
How are govt, MILF doing in peace process? 'Gigantic progress' but 'need for speed' - indie panel
From InterAksyon (Feb 28): How are govt, MILF doing in peace process? 'Gigantic progress' but 'need for speed' - indie panel
How has the Mindanao peace process been doing? Particularly, how are the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front implementing the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro?
Overall and before the signing of the fourth and final annex on normalization, the two parties have made “gigantic progress,” although there is a “need for speed,” according to the independent Third Party Monitoring Team, the panel created by the agreement that is mandated to monitor the implementation of the agreement.
“The government and MILF panels have made gigantic progress in completing all four Annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB),” said Alistair MacDonald, TPMT chairman and former ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines, at a press conference Friday.
After consultations with a wide range of stakeholders in September and December, TPMT noted the following in its first public report:
The TPMT noted four “key steps” undertaken by both parties since the signing of the agreement in October 2013, or what MacDonald called “some of the greatest steps” and “tremendous work”:
Why is it important to have peace in Mindanao?
“Much remains to be done,” MacDonald said, among them: the signing of the comprehensive peace agreement (by March 2014), the drafting (by end 2014) and adoption of the Basic Law (by January 2015), and the full implementation of the agreements reached (by July 2016).
Everyone that the panel talked to on the progress in the implementation of the agreement expressed a desire for a “comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable peace in Mindanao,” the panel said.
Why is this so? Because “building a peace…will bring an end to cycles of violence and displacement, and…will allow the tremendous economic, social and cultural potential of Mindanao to come to the fore,” MacDonald said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/81737/how-are-govt-milf-doing-in-peace-process-gigantic-progress-but-need-for-speed---indie-panel
How has the Mindanao peace process been doing? Particularly, how are the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front implementing the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro?
Overall and before the signing of the fourth and final annex on normalization, the two parties have made “gigantic progress,” although there is a “need for speed,” according to the independent Third Party Monitoring Team, the panel created by the agreement that is mandated to monitor the implementation of the agreement.
“The government and MILF panels have made gigantic progress in completing all four Annexes to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB),” said Alistair MacDonald, TPMT chairman and former ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines, at a press conference Friday.
After consultations with a wide range of stakeholders in September and December, TPMT noted the following in its first public report:
- Commitment “It was evident that both parties continued to share the strongest commitment to peace, and are absolutely determined to bring the process to a successful conclusion.”
- ‘Need for speed’ “There was a strong recognition of the ‘need for speed,’ and for the drafting of the Basic Law to be completed as soon as possible in order to allow Congress to commence its deliberations in a timely manner.
- Public info “Many stakeholders underlined the need for deeper public information about the FAB and its implications, and for the parties to strengthen their outreach and public messaging to a wide audience, including local government units, the ulamas and bishops, the business sector, and civil society more widely, and including also information in local languages.”
- Inclusiveness “A number of stakeholders expressed concern about the inclusiveness of the process, and there was a clear desire for the FAB to be something which would be beneficial for all residents of the Bangsamoro.”
The TPMT noted four “key steps” undertaken by both parties since the signing of the agreement in October 2013, or what MacDonald called “some of the greatest steps” and “tremendous work”:
- The signature of the Annexes on Transitional Modalities (February 2013), on Wealth Generation (July 2013), on Power Sharing (December 2013), and on Normalization (January 2014, together with the addendum on Bangsamoro Waters).
- The launching of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission in April 2013, and the work being carried forward in drafting the Basic Law.
- The launching of the Independent Commission on Policing in September 2013, to prepare proposals for a new police service for the Bangsamoro.
- The launching of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro program in Feburary 2013, providing in coordination with the Transition Commission the government’s initial support for identified MILF combatants, families, and other affected persons and communities.
Why is it important to have peace in Mindanao?
“Much remains to be done,” MacDonald said, among them: the signing of the comprehensive peace agreement (by March 2014), the drafting (by end 2014) and adoption of the Basic Law (by January 2015), and the full implementation of the agreements reached (by July 2016).
Everyone that the panel talked to on the progress in the implementation of the agreement expressed a desire for a “comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable peace in Mindanao,” the panel said.
Why is this so? Because “building a peace…will bring an end to cycles of violence and displacement, and…will allow the tremendous economic, social and cultural potential of Mindanao to come to the fore,” MacDonald said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/81737/how-are-govt-milf-doing-in-peace-process-gigantic-progress-but-need-for-speed---indie-panel
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