Philippines-U.S. Bilateral Exercise Balikatan begins with community projects in Albay

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 21): Philippines-U.S. Bilateral Exercise Balikatan begins with community projects in Albay

The United States. forces began the first phase of Exercise Balikatan 2014 today, conducting preliminary work on community infrastructure projects in Legazpi City, Albay, a statement from the US Embassy in the Philippines said

Balikatan is an annual Republic of the Philippines-U.S. military bilateral training exercise and humanitarian assistance engagement. It will take place in the Philippines May 5 to 16. 

During Balikatan 2014, Philippine and U.S. service members will conduct humanitarian civic assistance projects throughout Legazpi City.  Military medical personnel will offer free medical, dental and veterinary care. Military engineers will construct and repair schools and other community infrastructure in selected communities.

The Balikatan exercise focuses on training members of both Philippine and U.S. armed forces to provide relief and assistance in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.  Additionally, military service members from both countries will conduct combined staff exercises and field training in Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay and Clark Airfield to improve their interoperability and contingency planning.

Balikatan 2014 is the 30th iteration of the annual exercise.  This year, the Philippines and the United States have invited a number of personnel from other regional partner nations to attend a portion of the exercise.

“Balikatan” in Filipino means "shoulder-to-shoulder" and characterizes the spirit of the exercise.

For updates and additional information about Balikatan like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exercisebalikatan. (US Embassy Manila)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1781398048456

New security pact up with Obama visit

From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 21): New security pact up with Obama visit

US Support For PH Territorial Claims Of ‘Paramount Importance’

Finalizing a new security pact, investment, and trade agreements, and financing of quality infrastructure projects across the country–these should be on top of President Benigno S. Aquino III’s “wish list” when he meets with United States President Barack Obama during the latter’s visit to the Philippines next week.

According to Prof. Richard Heydarian of the Ateneo de Manila’s Political Science department, the most important concern of the Aquino administration should be about negotiating the Framework Agreement on Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Rotational Presence with Washington “which will ensure a robust American commitment to come to the Philippines’ rescue in the event of conflict in the West Philippine Sea.”

“Given the heightened tensions over our decision to file the memorial at ITLOS (International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea), sustained and unequivocal American support for our territorial claims is of paramount importance,” Heydarian told the Manila Bulletin yesterday.

After nearly eight months of negotiations that saw both parties facing an impasse over certain salient features, the Philippines and the US finally found consensus on key points of a draft enhanced defense cooperation agreement last April 11, thus ending eight rounds of talks.

“It is also necessary for the Philippines to explore varying arrangements to enhance our access to advanced military hardware to expedite our military modernization program and establish a credible minimum deterrence capacity,” added Heydarian. “This could come in the form of expanded US military aid and new defense acquisitions.”

Likewise, the Ateneo professor said Aquino should push for new investment and trade agreements which will expedite the inflow of large-scale American investments and open up new markets for Philippine exports, especially in the realm of agriculture and high-end services.
“Given the continued lack of inclusive growth in the country, Aquino should push the US to invest in our manufacturing sector which is crucial to generating quality, large-scale employment,” said Heydarian.

Investments in infrastructure should also be on top of the discussion of the two leaders when they meet next Monday.

“Given our relatively weak infrastructure, which has hampered our development and undermined the resilience of our communities to climate change, there should also be sustained discussion on US investments in and financing of quality infrastructure projects across the country, especially as the Aquino administration aims to ramp up infrastructure spending in the next two years and reconstruct areas devastated by super typhoon Yolanda,” said Heydarian.

Reviewing COMET

President Obama will be viewing the new electric version of the jeepney that is being supported by a technology maker in the US during his visit in the Philippines next week.

According to Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications Ben Rhodes, Obama will begin his second day in Manila on Tuesday, April 29, by personally reviewing the progress of the COMET (City Optimized Managed Electric Transport).

“Those of you who have may have spent time in Manila know that this is one of the principal means of people getting around,” said Rhodes during a press briefing at the White House over the weekend.

US-based Pangea Motors, LLC has teamed up with local investors to create an international partnership called Global Electric Transportation with a Philippine franchise named GET Philippines Inc. for the supply and distribution of COMET.

Pangea said that unlike its competitors, its vehicles are designed to be fully electric from the beginning instead of modifying gas vehicles or golf carts.

The vehicle uses lithium iron phosphate batteries that are enclosed in a watertight casing and consists of less than 300 parts instead of the usual 4,000 parts of a typical diesel-run engine, which translates to cost-efficient manufacturing and minimal maintenance, Pangea said.

The COMET can comfortably seat 16 passengers with a height clearance of over six feet. It also charges on a 220-V outlet with its charging system built into the vehicle requiring only a four-hour charge time, and has a range of 80 to 100 kilometers on a full charge.

Rhodes said upon his arrival in the Philippines on Monday, April 28, Obama will have a bilateral program with Aquino and a joint press conference.

On Monday night, Obama will attend a state dinner hosted by Aquino.
Obama is also scheduled to go Fort Bonifacio, where he will give remarks to an audience that will include US and Filipino service members and veterans.

Obama is scheduled to return to the US on April 29.

Prior to his visit to Manila, Obama will first travel to Tokyo on April 23 where he will have a private dinner with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The next morning, President Obama will have a farewell greet with the Emperor of Japan after which he will leave for South Korea.

After Seoul, Obama will visit Malaysia, the first by a US President since Lyndon Johnson.

Miriam’s Warning

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday warned the Aquino government against rushing the signing of the US-Philippine agreement for enhanced defense cooperation (EDC) and presenting this as a “welcome gift” to President Obama when he visits the country later this month.

Santiago, hailed as a constitutional and foreign relation expert, said the government should keep in mind that national interest must be upheld instead of being subservient to the United States’ interests.

“Should affairs of state be considered pasalubong (welcome gift)? What are we? This is a very important matter! We should stop our superstitious mentality that we must always show foreign visitors our hospitality. This is nothing of that sort. This is of a different level. Let’s put it in context,” said Santiago in Filipino and English over a DZBB radio interview.

Accord Before Visit

A House leader is calling on the Philippine government to ink the Agreement on Enhanced Defense Cooperation (AEDC) with Washington even beforePresident Obama arrives in the Philippines on April 28.

The lawmaker, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it would be better for the government to immediately sign the security deal with Washington or else the country might face a “political backlash.”

“The FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) upgrade has something to do with the visit of the US President. It was a political decision on their part. And now it is our turn to make such political decision by signing the AEDC even before Obama arrives,” the pro-AEDC lawmaker said in an interview.

In a separate interview, House Deputy Majority Leader and Citizens Battle against Corruption (CIBAC) party-list Rep. Sherwin Tugna said with the impending AEDC signing between Manila and Washington, China would now think twice before bullying small countries.

“For me, the AEDC will help in putting pressure to China because of potential military assistance to our country,” he stressed.

MAGDALO party-list Rep. Francisco Ashley Acedillo said the Chinese government should not interpret the Philippines’ signing of AEDC as an act of provocation.

“This is a sovereign act of a sovereign country to further its foreign policy,” he said.

He said since AEDC is not a treaty, there is no need for the Executive to consult the Congress on the matter.

For his part, Speaker Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte Jr. said it is up to President Aquino if the AEDC would be signed on or before Obama’s visit.
“It is their call really. Foreign policy is the President’s call,” he said.

Territorial Tensions

As President Obama travels through Asia this coming week, he will confront a region that’s warily watching the crisis in Ukraine through the prism of its own territorial tensions with China.

Each of the four countries on Obama’s itinerary — Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines — has a dispute with Beijing over islands and waters in the South and East China Seas. Their leaders will be weighing Obama’s willingness to support them if those conflicts boil over.

“What we can say after seeing what happened to Ukraine is that using force to change the status quo is not acceptable,” said Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whose country is in one of the fiercest disputes with China.

Administration officials, including Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, have taken a tougher line on the territorial issues in recent weeks, sternly warning China against the use of military force and noting that the US has treaty obligations to defend Japan in particular. But in an attempt to maintain good relations with China, the US has not formally taken sides on the question of which countries should control which islands.

Analysts say there are concerns that China could be emboldened by the relative ease with which Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine over US objections, as well as the very real possibility that Moscow could take more land. Moreover, some in Asia question Obama’s ability to follow through on his security pledges in light of his decision last summer to pull back on plans for a military strike against Syria.

“The heavyweights in the region got very scared by the Syrian decision,” said Douglas Paal, a longtime US diplomat in Asia who now is vice president of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. “They’ve never seen anything like that. They’ve always counted on strong executives bringing the Congress along or going around the Congress to make sure that our security guarantees will be honored.”

Obama’s advisers say they see little evidence thus far that China has been encouraged by Russia’s incursions into Ukraine. Instead, they say Beijing appears to be viewing with concern the Kremlin’s attempts to sway pro-Russian populations in areas of Ukraine, given China’s own restive minority populations in border regions.

US officials also have tried to keep China from supporting Russia’s moves in Ukraine by appealing to Beijing’s well-known and vehement opposition to outside intervention in other nations’ domestic affairs. Officials say they plan to emphasize that stance when they discuss Asia’s territorial disputes with regional leaders this week.

“We have been talking with them about the importance of a strong international front to uphold principles that they and we all hold dear, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, the need for peaceful resolution of disputes,” said Susan Rice, Obama’s national security adviser.
“And we will continue to have that discussion throughout each of the stops on our trip.”

Obama’s eight-day Asia swing is a makeup for a visit he canceled last fall because of the US government shutdown. Leaving Washington on Tuesday, he will stop briefly in Oso, Washington state, where mudslides killed dozens of people. He will arrive Wednesday in Japan.

Obama’s advisers say there are no plans to scrap the trip if the situation in Ukraine worsens. But the president may have to make decisions while traveling about imposing more penalties against Russia if a deal to ease the crisis collapses.

The US, Russia, Ukraine and the European Union signed an agreement Thursday. But already, the prospects of it holding appear slim, with pro-Russian insurgents in eastern Ukraine refusing to leave the government buildings they occupy in nearly a dozen cities.

Russia’s foreign ministry on Saturday said it would offer strong help to Ukraine, but that responsibility for reducing tensions rested with Ukrainians, not outsiders.

Compared with Russia’s actions in Ukraine, China has been relatively restrained in its territorial ambitions. But tensions spiked last fall when Beijing declared an air defense zone over a large part of the East China Sea, including the disputed islands controlled by Japan and a maritime rock claimed by both China and South Korea. China’s coast guard also has blocked Filipino ships in the South China Sea in recent weeks.

China claims virtually the entire South China Sea. Nansha is the Chinese name for the Spratlys, a chain of resource-rich islands, islets and reefs claimed partly or wholly by China, the Philippines, Malaysia and other southeast Asian nations.

Former Philippine national security adviser Roilo Golez said he expects Beijing to avoid Russian-style moves on any of the disputed territories, in large part because China is surrounded by American allies from the East China Sea to the Strait of Malacca and may have to deal with the US military in the region if it undertakes a major act of aggression.

“It would be a folly on the part of China to do anything drastic, to do a Crimea,” Golez said.

http://www.mb.com.ph/new-security-pact-up-with-obama-visit/

PH to play key role in US Asian ‘pivot’

From the Manila Times (Apr 20): PH to play key role in US Asian ‘pivot’

THE Philippines will play a vital role in the United States’ “rebalancing” of assets toward what Washington calls the Asian “pivot” and President Barack Obama will likely discuss Manila’s part with President Benigno Aquino 3rd during his scheduled Asian roundabout by month’s end.

On Sunday, Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the two leaders are most likely to discuss the “strategic partnership” between the two countries.

Coloma added that the discussions between Obama and Aquino will center on defense and security ties.

“The context of the [meeting] is the US’ rebalancing [policy] and the Asian pivot,” the Palace official said.

The new strategy involves the shifting of focus from costly wars in the Middle East to Asia, where trade has been bustling and expected to further improve with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) integration in 2015.

US and Philippines official are in the thick of preparations for the signing of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which will allow sharing of military bases with US troops.

The agreement is also seen to bolster Manila’s defense posture against China, which has been viewed as bullying the Philippines over disputed islets and shoals in the Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Coloma explained that Asia “is an important commercial channel for goods from around the world.”

“[Many] countries have special interest in Asean, the same thing with the US,” the official pointed out.

“All these will form the important elements of the discussions between the two presidents,” he said.

Obama, who is scheduled to be in Manila on April 28, will also visit Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Coloma said all security protocols and preparations have been set for Obama’s visit.

He added that while they respect the right to free speech and expression, security forces will be ready to respond to threats.

Coloma said the police will ensure that rallies to be staged by militant groups will be peaceful.

http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-to-play-key-role-in-us-asian-pivot/90706/

'Balikatan 2014' HCA activities kick off in Albay

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): 'Balikatan 2014' HCA activities kick off in Albay

The humanitarian and civic assistance (HCA) activities of the United States-Philippines "Balikatan Exercise 2014" kicked off in Legazpi City, Albay on Monday.

This was disclosed by Lt. (SG) Annaleah Cazcarro, Combined-Joint Information Bureau co-director, who said that HCA activities being conducted by American forces involved in "Balikatan 2014" include free medical, dental and veterinary care in poor sections of Legazpi City.

Aside from this, American troopers will also construct and repair schools and other community infrastructure in selected communities.

Cazcarro said Filipino troopers will be helping their American counterparts in these community development activities.

As of this posting, the above-mentioned events are still ongoing.

The "Balikatan" exercise focuses on training members of both Philippine and US armed forces to provide relief and assistance in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.

It is slated for May 5 to 16 this year.

Additionally, military service members from both countries will conduct combined staff exercises and field training in Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay and Clark Field to improve their interoperability and contingency planning.

"Balikatan 2014" is the 30th iteration of the annual exercise.

This year, the Philippines and the United States have invited a number of personnel from other regional partner nations to attend a portion of the exercise.

“Balikatan” in Filipino means "shoulder-to-shoulder" and characterizes the spirit of the exercise.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636465

BTC signs draft Bangsamoro Basic Law: 11 yes, 2 with reservations, 2 absent

From MindaNews (Apr 21): BTC signs draft Bangsamoro Basic Law: 11 yes, 2 with reservations, 2 absent

The draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) was finally completed by the 15-member Bangsamoro Transition Commission at the end of a four-hour plenary session on Sunday afternoon with 13 commissioners signing although two with reservations, and two commissioners absent.

The plenary was scheduled for 1 p.m. but started at 2 p.m. with only 13 of the 15-member Commission present.

Commissioners Johaira Wahab, chair of the Committee on Transitory Provisions, Amendments, Revisions and Miscellaneous Matters, and Fatmawati Salapuddin of Sulu were absent. Both commissioners could not be reached for comment.

Commissioners Froilyn Mendoza representing the indigenous peoples, and Peter Eisma of Basilan signed with reservations.

While the commissioners were busy deliberating issues on amendments and revisions, fiscal autonomy, and police force, among others,  representatives of civil society groups picketed on the street outside the BTC office urging the commissioners to sign the BBL.

 

Representatives of the International Monitoring Team, Mayor Ramon Piang of Upi,  Mayor Abdullah Campong of South Upi,  Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang of Guindulungan town and board member Midtimbang and former Sultan Kudarat mayor Tocao Mastura and journalists were among those who witnessed the deliberations at the plenary.

The signing took place after 6 p.m. as members of the Commission spoke first before they signed the draft bill.

On April 14, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission submitted to the Office of the President in Malacanang a partial draft containing only the draft on Basic Rights, Culture, Social Justice and IP was submitted because only the report of the Basic Rights committee was adopted by the plenary in its entirety on April 13.

BTC chair Mohagher Iqbal, also chair of the MILF peace panel, told MindaNews that  Commissioner Raisa Jajurie has been tasked to deliver the signed draft to Malacanang.

http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2014/04/21/btc-signs-draft-bangsamoro-basic-law-12-yes-one-with-reservations-2-absent/

First phase of US-PHL 'Exercise Balikatan 2014' starts in Albay

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): First phase of US-PHL 'Exercise Balikatan 2014' starts in Albay

The United States Embassy in Manila announced on Monday that American forces participating in the "Exercise Balikatan 2014" have started the first phase of the annual maneuvers by conducting preliminary work on community infrastructure projects in Legazpi City, Albay.

"Balikatan" is the annual Republic of the Philippines-US military bilateral training exercise and humanitarian assistance engagement.

The embassy said that "as a signature element of our nations’ robust alliance relationship, Balikatan will take place in the Philippines May 5 to 16."

During "Balikatan 2014," Philippine and US service members will conduct humanitarian civic assistance projects throughout Legazpi City.

Military medical personnel will offer free medical, dental and veterinary care.

Military engineers will construct and repair schools and other community infrastructure in selected communities.

The Balikatan exercise focuses on training members of both Philippine and US armed forces to provide relief and assistance in the event of natural disasters and other crises that endanger public health and safety.

Additionally, military service members from both countries will conduct combined staff exercises and field training in Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay and Clark Field to improve their interoperability and contingency planning.

"Balikatan 2014" is the 30th iteration of the annual exercise.

This year, the Philippines and the United States have invited a number of personnel from other regional partner nations to attend a portion of the exercise.

“Balikatan” in Filipino means "shoulder-to-shoulder" and characterizes the spirit of the exercise.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636463

MILF: Basic Law Complicated

From the MILF Website (Apr 21): Basic Law Complicated



The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) was finally completed and adopted in plenary by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) on April 20.
  

Six days after it transmitted the first formally adopted part of the BBL, the Commission is set to submit immediately the full text of the proposed BBL to the Office of the President (OP).  

BTC Chairman Mohagher Iqbal told his fellow commissioners and selected guests that with the signing of the BBL they have overcome the “greatest challenge of the Commission”.

“It is not a perfect basic law since there is no such thing as a perfect basic law,” Iqbal said. He emphasized though the BBL “has passed through all levels of deliberations and decision-making which are transparent and democratic.”

All the 13 commissioners who were present affixed their signatures to the proposed BBL after explaining their votes.

Conspicuously absent though were two lady commissioners from the government side --- Johaira Wahab and Fatmawati Salapuddin. Neither sent any official explanation of their absence to the historic adoption of the BBL.



Since the BBL would now be transmitted to the OP, Iqbal expressed the view that their engagement with the OP as “not worrisome”. “The Government and the MILF, after the signing of the CAB, are partners and therefore the engagement is one of problem-solving and partnership,” he explained.

“We believe in the trustworthiness of the President to deliver the BBL as his legacy to the nation in distress for more than our decades,” he stressed in his message.

A rally of support was held by civil society organizations outside the BTC office during the 5-hour plenary deliberations and voting.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/938-basic-law-complicated

MILF: MILF Social Welfare Committee sponsors peace advocacy in Pikit

From the MILF Website (Apr 21): MILF Social Welfare Committee sponsors peace advocacy in Pikit



After the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the Bangsamoro Leadership & Management Institute (BLMI) and the MILF Committee on Information continue to hold advocacy programs without let-up reaching the grassroots level to let them know what the CAB is all about.
   

The Social Welfare Committee (SWC) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in North Cotabato under the leadership of Ustadza Zahara Zumbaga –Taya sponsored and facilitated an advocacy program on April 17 held at Ma’ahad Shimaley, Manaulanen, Pikit, North Cotabato with the title “Peace Dialogue & Consultative Meeting on the essence of Comprehensive Agreement (CAB).

This writer, BLMI Research Unit Officer and representatives from the MILF- Information Committee were invited as guests. Also invited were the MILF Provincial Political Chairman, community leaders and a member of the Provincial Board of North Cotabato. The participants were estimated at 1,038 and mostly from the women sector.

Prof. Esmael Abdula, BLMI Training Unit Officer & Chairman of Mass Mobilization, a sub- Committee of the MILF – Committee on Information provided the participants updates on the GPH-MILF Peace Process and the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), while Arman Armada, Committee on Information Secretary delved on the salient points of the CAB.


This writer accentuated on women’s participation in Islam and in secular world and told his audience that numerous women though out the world had made vital contributions in society. The participation of women in political, social, economic and cultural aspects of society is very essential. Under the FAB and now in the CAB, the women are given representation to the Bangsamoro Parliament.  

During the open forum, the issues raised on Annex on Normalization and decommissioning of the MILF Forces were clearly answered by Prof. Abdula.  Their concerns on these issues that baffled them for quite sometimes were time were ultimately given answer.

People’s Organization and their participation in the peace process and advocacies had dramatically spiraled up recently due to the conduct of forums and public awareness campaign.

With demands for similar programs by community residents in other areas are increasing, the BLMI and the MILF Committee on Information will continue to engage in advocacy programs as part of their mandates in order to enlighten the people especially those that have doubts and or confused on the CAB and the envisioned Bangsamoro Region.
 http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/936-milf-social-welfare-committee-sponsors-peace-advocacy-in-pikit

MILF: BTC sets ceremonial signing of BBL

From the MILF Website (Apr 20): BTC sets ceremonial signing of BBL

The BangsamoroTransition Commission (BTC) scheduled the signing ceremony for the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on April 20 at the BTC Office in Cotabato City. 
  

Among the guests who are invited to the occasion were Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, Secretary Teresita “Ging” Deles, GPH chief negotiator Miriam Ferrer-Coronel, Bishop Colin Bagaforo, Cotabato City Mayor Japal “Jojo” Guiani Jr., Mayor Ramon Piang of North Upi, Mayor Abdullah Campong of South Upi, selected members of the MILF Central Committee, government and MILF ceasefire committees, and members of the International Monitoring Team (IMT).

Members of the media were also invited to cover the signing ceremony.
Luwaran.com, the official website of the MILF Committee on Information in its editorial on April 16 said that on signing day, all the 15 commissioners are expected to sign the BBL without reservations. As a matter of fact, one lady commissioner, a nominee of the government, requested that every commissioner will be given a copy for posterity’s sake. The BTC agreed but the copy will not be given to the commissioners until at a later date when full disclosure of the BBL will not compromise its smooth deliberation in Congress. Besides, an engagement with the government in this regard is required.

Affixing one’s signature to a historic document is truly historic. It is an episode of a lifetime that only few people are called and given such a rare opportunity.  In the same vein, not signing such a historic document is also historic in the reverse, Luwaran also said.

The decision to sign the proposed BBL by every commissioner was a collective will of the BTC during its plenary session last April 13.

 There was no dissenting voice, except an earlier one expressed by BTC Chair Mohagher Iqbal for his preference for just affixing the initials of the commissioners in the proposed BBL. But he was alone in such view; no one sees it as the right course of action. Thus, he has to bow down to the will of the majority.

If by chance, any commissioner decides not to affix his/her signature to the proposed BBL, such is within the purview of his or her right. No one can question that. But one thing sure is that he or she has to explain why he or she did not sign.  History will judge his or her decision. But in the immediate, the negative decision will surely make the spoilers happy; they will feast on this even if the decision was based on reasons personally well-thought-out, the Luwaran also said.

It can be recalled that on April 14, the BTC submitted a partial but formally adopted portion of the BBL to the Office of the President. It was in line with the instruction of the president to the BTC to submit the draft when they made a courtesy call on him last January 30.
A complete BBL draft bearing the signatures of the commissioners will be submitted after the Holy week.

Better this early, every BTC commissioner must examine his or her conscience whether what side to vote: positively or negatively --- and it is the right thing.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/934-btc-sets-ceremonial-signing-of-bbl

MILF: Jabidah Base Command holds post CAB Signing Kanduri in Lanao

From the MILF Website (Apr 20): Jabidah Base Command holds post CAB Signing Kanduri in Lanao



On April 15, officials and members of Jabidah Base Command of the MILF-BIAF North Eastern Mindanao Front, hosted a post CAB signing “kanduri” or thanksgiving banquet held at  Alim Abdul Azis Mimbantas Memorial Center which also serve as the MILF Peace Panel satellite office at Barangay Dama , Butig, Lanao Del Sur.

Jabidah Base Cmdr. Jannati Mimbantas, (Younger Brother of the late MILF Vice Chairman Alim Abdul Azis Mimbantas), after thanking and welcoming the guests, urged the crowd to be thankful to Almighty ALLAH (S.W.T.) that finally the Moro peoples’ decades-old struggle had significantly achieved success with the signing of the CAB. He also reminded them not to forget the martyrs and their sacrifices, "Before achieving this, countless lives had been sacrificed and lost." Mimbantas said.

MILF 2nd Vice Chairman Alim Pangalian Solaiman in his speech appealed for unity and solidarity between and among the tri-people in the proposed Bangsamoro region. He specifically mentioned the Ulama (learned Muslims) to close their ranks and support the Bangsamoro.

Among those invited to speak was the Chairman of the Bangsamoro National Movement for Peace and Development Agakhan M. Sharief. In his message, he encouraged MILF members to prepare for any eventuality. "The success of the Bangsamoro depends on us", said Sharief.

Officials from the MILF-Ranaw Region and LGU's also graced the kanduri.  Traditional Meranaw foods were served after the speeches where thousands participated in the said festivity.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/933-jabidah-base-command-holds-post-cab-signing-kanduri-in-lanao

CPP/NPA-Albay: US-RP Balikatan 2014 sa Albay, Mapanghimasok, Mapanlinlang at Kontra-mamamayan

NPA Albay propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Apr 20): US-RP Balikatan 2014 sa Albay, Mapanghimasok, Mapanlinlang at Kontra-mamamayan (US-RP Balikatan 2014 Albay, intrusive, deceitful and anti-people)

Florante Orobia
Spokesperson
NPA Albay Provincial Operations Command (Santos Binamera Command)

 

Ang muling paglulunsad ng isang bahagi ng US-RP Balikatan 2014 ngayong Abril hanggang Mayo sa probinsya ng Albay ay nakakamuplahe sa mga aktibidad na “Humanitarian and Civic Assistance (HCA)”. Tulad ng buong pakete ng US-RP Balikatan Exercises na taunang dinaraos sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas simula pa noong taong 2000, ito ay malinaw na pagyurak sa soberanya at integridad ng bansa, kontra-mamamayan at mapanlinlang.

Ang ilang tipo ng “Humanitarian and Civic Assistance (HCA)” gaya ng pagtatayo ng school building (ENCAP), healthcare engagements sa anyo ng mga medical missions/symposia at iba pang civil-military operations (CMO) activities ng Balikatan 2014 na gaganapin sa ilang barangay ng Guinobatan at Legazpi City ay nagkukunwaring ’tulong ng isang kaibigan". Pinapakete bilang tulong ng US samantalang mula sa kaban ng bayan ang ginagastos dito at ang mga proyektong pang-imprastraktura ay ‘ampaw’ ang pagkakagawa katulad ng mga karaniwang maanomaliyang proyekto ng gobyerno. Noong Balikatan 2009, nadismaya ang mga residente sa lugar nang ang ilang metrong tinapalang kalsada sa Brgy. Malidong, Pioduran, Albay na ipinangalandakan na bahagi ng “humanitarian mission” ay bumalik sa pagiging lubak-lubak pagkalipas ng ilang buwan matapos na gawin ito. Ginagamit ang salitang ‘humanitarian’ upang magmukhang ‘non-military’ ang naturang aktibidad ng Balikatan Exercises. Itinatago nito ang tunay na kulay ng mga mersenaryong US Troops at ang mapanibasib na katangian nito ng mga ipinakitang halimbawa ng human rights violations ng 901st Bde habang nagsasagawa ng clearing operations para sa US-RP Balikatan 2009 sa Brgy. Balanac, Ligao City noong Pebrero 2009 kung saan pinaulanan ng bala ng mga militar ang ilang bahay ng mga residente na ikinasunog ng kanilang tahanan at ikinasugat ng pitong sibilyan. Tulad ng civil-military operations (CMO) ng Oplan Bayanihan ng rehimeng Noynoy, pagpapapogi at panlilinlang ang Humanitarian and Civic Assistance ng US-RP Balikatan 2014. Ang Balikatan Exercises sa anyo ng Humanitarian Civic Assistance na gaganapin sa Albay ay pinagsisilbi para sa layuning militar US at hindi magdudulot ng kaunlaran para sa mamamayang Albayano.

Ang Balikatan 2014 na gaganapin sa Albay na kasabay ng sa Tacloban ay isa lamang sa maraming aktibidad na pawang civic and military drills and trainings sa mga kampo at pasilidad ng AFP sa bansa. Naglalayon itong sanayin at hubugin pa ang AFP at PNP bilang kolonyal at papet na hukbo ng US sa pamamagitan ng paglulunsad ng mga pagsasanay sa surveillance, physical and social terrain mapping, pananatili ng mga US military advisers sa mismong pamunuan ng AFP, pagbili sa US ng mga pinaglumaan at surplas na kagamitang militar hanggang sa aktwal na paglahok ng US sa piling operasyong militar sa bansa. Ang layuning “interoperability” ng US troops at AFP-PNP ay walang iba kundi ang pagpapaunlad at pagtaya ng US sa kapasidad ng AFP-PNP sa pagsugpo sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at sa makatarungang paglaban ng mamamayan. Ito ay paghahanda sa magkasanib nilang operasyon kapag tuwiran na ang agresyon ng US sa Pilipinas sa susunod na panahon.

Ang mga aktibidad ng Balikatan 2014 ay malinaw na panghihimasok sa panloob na usapin ng Pilipinas. Dagdag pa, ang regular na presensya ng tropang militar ng US saanmang bahagi ng bansa ay malinaw na labag sa soberanya at integridad ng Pilipinas bilang isang bansa. Makakaladkad lamang ang Pilipinas sa kaguluhan at gera na laging pinapasimunuan ng US upang mamantini ang paghahari nito sa daigdig, sa halip na makatulong sa estabilidad ng Pilipinas. Ang Balikatan 2014, ay lalahukan ng lampas dalawang libong (2,000) US troops at sa Albay ay apat na raang (400) ang inaasahang kalahok. Kinokondisyon nito ang mamamayang Bikolano na masanay sa presensya ng US troops hanggang pikit-matang matanggap ang panghihimasok ng dayuhang imperyalismong US sa bansa.

Ang patuloy na paglulunsad ng BALIKATAN EXERCISES ay labag sa konstitusyon ng Pilipinas. Ang mga kasunduan tulad Visiting Forces Agreement at Mutual Defense Treaty ay pagpapatunay ng neokolonyal na kontrol ng imperyalismong US sa bansa at ng pagkatuta sa US ng rehimeng Noynoy. Walang tunay na pakinabang ang mamamayang Albayano sa Balikatan 2014 bagkus ay magsisilbi lamang ito sa pang- ekonomiya, pulitika at militar na interes ng US at ng lokal na papet nito.

Sasamantalahin ng US ang Balikatan Exercises dahil mas mahigpit ang pangangailangan nilang kontrolin ang ating bansa at ang pamilihan ng buong Asya-Pasipiko na tinuturing ng US na magsasalba sa lumulubog na ekonomiya nito. Tuwang-tuwa naman ang pangkatin ni Noynoy laluna’t sumusuporta ito sa anti-mamamayan at pasistang programa nitong Oplan Bayanihan.

Katulad ng militanteng paglaban ng mamamayang Bikolano laban sa Balikatan 2009, dapat muling ilantad, tutulan at labanan ng mga Albayano kasabay ng mamamayang Bikolano ang Balikatan 2014. Kailangang maging mapagbantay ang mamamayan sa mga paglabag sa karapatang-pantao tulad ng paninira ng ari-arian at paglapastangan sa mga kababaihan habang inilulunsad ang Balikatan. Kailangang makiisa at kumilos ang mga Albayano para labanan at ipawalang-bisa ang US-RP Mutual Defense Treaty at Visiting Forces Agreement at pati na ang panibagong kasunduang Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) na minamadaling lagdaan ng US at Pilipinas ngayong buwan ng Abril.

Mabuhay ang mamamayang Albayano! Mabuhay ang Demokratikong Rebolusyon ng Bayan!

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140420_us-rp-balikatan-2014-sa-albay-mapanghimasok-mapanlinlang-at-kontra-mamamayan

CPP/NDF: Gov. Bautista’s discernible backing for Joyce is a continuance of his self-conservancy

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Apr 19): Gov. Bautista’s discernible backing for Joyce is a continuance of his self-conservancy

Ka Efren Aksasato
Spokesperson
NDFP Far South Mindanao Chapter

 

Davao del Sur governor Claude Bautista’s uttered defense of Jose Abad Santos Mayor James “Jimmy” Joyce on the April 13 disarming of the latter’s private armed group come unsurprising. It is a manner among cliques.

Gov. Bautista asserted in a media interview that the New People’s Army disarmed a group of civilian security forces, contending further that the attack is but another apparent atrocity against the civilians. The group punished by the Red fighters of the Alex Ababa Command – Front 71 on April 13 is, without doubt, a band of armed mercenaries working for Joyce and not mere civilian volunteers. They were employed for the mayor’s protection and instrument of his repressive rule, as well as agents of his criminal activities and illegal operations. Such object is a legitimate target of the NPA’s tactical offensives, and is ought to be punished for their depravity to the people.

Gov. Bautista’s discernible backing for Joyce is a continuance of his self-conservancy. As Gov. Bautista’s trusted collaborator in Davao Occidental, Joyce is an adherent of his governor-boss’s terroristic ploys and an abettor of his vicious schemes.

A boss’s dissoluteness is always his cohort’s deeds. While Gov. Bautista is trying to cover-up Joyce’s band of private army, he is also keeping for himself a company-strong private armed group in Malita alone. This makes Gov. Bautista the most powerful warlord in the provinces of Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental, and Jimmy Joyce is only one of his trusted subordinates.

It can be recalled that on July 5, 2010, the NPA disarmed Berto Carabona, Gov. Bautista’s henchman in Brgy. Little Baguio, Malita, Davao del Sur. The Red fighters confiscated an M203 grenade launcher and a .30 caliber Garand rifle from his possession.

The existence and spread of warlordism is ambiguously continuing to fulfill some politicians’ greed at the expense of the impoverished people. Their domination only aggravates oppression and repression, pushing further the resistance of aggrieved masses. The revolutionary movement is one with the oppressed in realizing genuine justice and in punishing grave offenders. The NPA will continue to carry out tactical offensives that will ceaselessly weaken and smash-up the warlords’ rule and the oppressive state in entirety.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140419_gov-bautista-s-discernible-backing-for-joyce-is-a-continuance-of-his-self-conservancy

Cagayan mayor shot during flag-raising ceremony

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 21): Cagayan mayor shot during flag-raising ceremony

A municipal mayor in Cagayan province was shot in the middle of a flag-raising ceremony Monday morning.

Mayor Carlito Pentecostes Jr., of Gonzaga, Cagayan, was shot by suspected New People’s Army members, a radio report said.

‎The report, however, did not confirm if the gunshot was fatal.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/596003/cagayan-mayor-shot-during-flag-raising-ceremony

Another Hamilton class cutter being eyed for the Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 20): Another Hamilton class cutter being eyed for the Navy

Another Hamilton class cutter is in the works for the Philippine Navy (PN), defense officials said Sunday.

The ship is of the same type as the country's BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16).

Both vessels were converted to frigates after their donation to the Philippines.

This develops as the US Coast Guard is slated to decommission two Hamilton class cutters by this year.

Defense sources said that US government has expressed its intention to "donate" one of the cutters to the PN with the other one being given to the Nigerian Navy.

They added that the ship will be handed over to the Philippines with its 76mm Oto Melara main gun and whatever sensors and communication devices the PN will request.

If this donation pushes through, the Philippines will be fielding three Hamilton class cutters, two brand-new general purpose frigates and an air-to-air warfare frigate.

The ships are now being bid out by the Department of National Defense.

The two Hamilton-class cutters in PN service are a big boost to the military's "maritime situational awareness" capability.

The two ships are part of twelve Hamilton class cutters built for the US Coast Guard during the 1960s.

It weighs 3,250 tons, has a length of 378 feet, beam of 43 feet, and draft of 15 feet.

Its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots.

The ship has cruising range of 14,000 miles and has a sea and loiter time of 45 days.

It has a complement of 167 officers and men.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636338

Navy now planning to build own munitions

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 20): Navy now planning to build own munitions

In a bid to make the agency sufficient in munitions, the Naval Research and Development Center (NRDC) announced that it now conducting studies and plans to design and build its own.

This is under the NRDC's Project "Putok" which seeks to provide the Philippine Navy (PN) with the capability to design, create, and supply fleet units with modern munitions.

PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said that this is one of the five projects of the NRDC.

The other four programs include sonar equipment creation capability under Project "Ilalim", radars under Project "Itaas", platforms under Project "Kuyog" and the way ahead Project of NRDC, the satellite project under Project "Tuktuk".

PN flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano said that these projects are primarily designed to support the Active Archipelagic Defense Strategy which focuses mainly on the enhancement of maritime situational awareness and maritime operations.

These projects, when successfully pursued and executed through the partnership from the triad members, will mark a distinctive level of significance to the ideal of raising the PN’s level of research and development through the absorption of new technologies.

"This will pave the way to prevent the country from being technologically outwitted by any adversary," Alano concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636381

Police version of VFA pushed

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 21): Police version of VFA pushed

Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III proposed an arrangement where the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and the United States can  be modified to suit a police version.

Unlike the ‘Balikatan’ exercises, he said, police forces could hold joint exercises with  their foreign counterpart s  in order to improve the crime-fighting and crime-solving skills of the PNP.

The VFA  is a “good starting point” for a model agreement involving policemen, Pimentel said. 

 He noted that our is to have a police force that is not just properly armed but expertly trained in methods and techniques to prevent the proliferation of crimes.

One name he mentioned prominently is the Scotland Yard of the United Kingdom.

He said an agreement could be explored with Scotland Yard whereby the PNP could benefit from advanced police training in such a specialized field as forensic science and similar new studies that have applied science to solving crimes.

The senator  said this solution is timely because “there are crimes everywhere from petty crimes, crimes against property, all the way to violent heinous crimes including murder.”

He cited unsolved the alarming level of drug-related crimes as well as the series of killings of broadcast and print journalists over the past several years.

“No one has been pinpointed, arrested and prosecuted for the killings media personalities, especially those in Mindanao and the other provinces,” Pimentel said.

The “Kapatiran” exercises, he said.  would certainly help in the search for solutions to many unsolved crimes and thus lead to faster prosecution and the delivery of justice, he said.

 He also wants the Philippine National Police to be better trained in preventing and solving crimes.

He has proposed a “Balikatan-type” agreement the PNP could enter into with countries that have advanced crime-solving and -fighting techniques and training covering crime from the petty to the violent and heinous.

He recalled that in  decades past the Manila Police Force was called “Manila’s Finest” earning its reputation for efficiency because its officer corps and rank-and-file were mostly staffed by qualified law school graduates.

 http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/04/21/police-version-of-vfa-pushed/

Lawyers vow to sue PH, US over bases bid

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 21): Lawyers vow to sue PH, US over bases bid

HUMAN rights lawyers have vowed to contest in international courts the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA between the United States and the Philippines, saying both countries could be held liable for threatening the peace and stability in the region.

Lawyers from various countries including the United States, South  Korea, Japan, Greece and Spain have condemned what they claim are the attempts of the US to formally establish military bases in the Philippines.

They support the call of Filipino lawyers from the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers, or NUPL, for actions against the EDCA, according to lawyer Edre Olalia, NUPL secretary general.

But Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. defended the agreement.

“The Philippines’ objective in negotiating an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US is to establish a more stable platform for the strategic partnership  between the two countries that is aligned with the national interest,” Coloma said.

“Those who disagree with this objective and the processes involved in its attainment are free to express their dissenting views in the spirit of democratic dialog.”

Olalia said the expressions of support of the NUPL from international lawyers were given during the 18th Assembly of the International Association of Democratic Lawyers or IADL in Brussels, Belgium in from April 15 to 19 this year, he said.

More than 500 delegates from 50 countries consisting of lawyers, judges, magistrates, academics, law students and representatives from various sectors attended the five-day Congress  held at the Vrije Universiteit Brussels with the theme “Lawyering for People’s Rights.”

“Many delegates believe that this new basing agreement and the US pivot in Asia will threaten the peace and stability of the region,” Olalia said.

“The expanded US military presence in the country is also a threat to the peace process in the Philippines considering the antagonism of the US to any form of peace process between the government and the National Democratic Front.”

The plenary speakers at the Brussels Congress included M. Rashida Manjoo, UN Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women; Samir Amin, co-founder of the World Social Forum; Michael Ratner, President of the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights; Kumi Naido, International Executive Director of Greenpeace International, among others.
NUPL president and House Senior Deputy Minority Leader Neri Javier Colmenares talked about human rights issues in the Philippines.

The IADL is a non-governmental organization of lawyers with consultative status at the United Nations ECOSOC and UNESCO. It was founded in 1946 by legal professionals who had been active in the struggle against fascism. IADL’s first president was René Cassin, one of the principle authors of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

IADL’s first President Emeritus was Nelson Mandela.

“Support from many lawyers’ groups worldwide is important in the battle against this attempt by the US for economic and political hegemony in Asia,” Olalia said.

“We will continue to gather as many support from peace advocates and lawyers groups against the latest US initiative to escalate its presence in the Philippines. It is the US that provides material and moral support for the militarist approach to the conflict, making the calvary of the Filipino people even more tormenting.”

Colmenares, also Bayan Muna representative, warned the Philippine government that the US could be held accountable under international laws should it use its military facilities in the Philippines to commit aggression in other countries.

“We will get the support of international lawyers to file a case against the US and President Benigno Aquino III for crimes against humanity committed as a result of this new basing agreement,” Colmenares said.

Since its founding, IADL has assisted with legal advice to peoples and liberation movements throughout the world who struggled against colonialism, oppression, racism and exploitation. The NUPL is the Philippine affiliate of the IADL, which has hundreds of members all over the world.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/04/21/lawyers-vow-to-sue-ph-us-over-bases-bid/

Security situation during Holy Week generally peaceful--AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 20): Security situation during Holy Week generally peaceful--AFP
 
While playing support to the Philippine National Police (PNP)'s security missions this Holy Week, the Armed Forces on Sunday announced that the situation was generally peaceful during the annual holiday.

"In our support operations, (the security situation) was generally peaceful," AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, said.

He also clarified that the military only played a supporting role in securing various parts of the country during the Holy Week.

In the recently-concluded Holy Week observation, the PNP was the lead agency in providing security for the Filipino devout who flocked by the thousands in their respective provinces to observe the annual holiday.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636380

MILF dared: Expel criminal members

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 21): MILF dared: Expel criminal members

Govt panelist snipes at Sayyaf supporters

THE government has asked the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to “expel” its members who it says have supported the Abu Sayyaf and other criminal elements in the south.

Government chief negotiator Miriam Ferrer made the call after a military operation against Abu Sayyaf top leader Furuji Indama in Basilan last week left 20 people dead, including two soldiers and four MILF members.

Ferrer

“As an organization that signed the peace agreement, the MILF must not tolerate the criminal acts of any of their individual members. They must do their part in arresting the impunity long enjoyed by these unscrupulous individuals,” Ferrer said.

“They should expel from their ranks those who reject peace and are directly or indirectly abetting the hostage-taking and preventing development to set in.”

Still, MILF Vice Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar mourned the death of the four MILF members and asked an independent ceasefire-monitoring body to look into the military attack.

But Ferrer noted that the MILF casualties were connected by affinity to Indama, one of the most wanted men in the country and who has been charged with several cases of murder and kidnappings.

“The peace process should not be used to shield criminals from their accountability for their crimes against innocent civilians,” Ferrer said.

She said the ceasefire-monitoring body as well as the government-MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group were scheduled to meet soon.

“We expect both parties to renew their commitment and to come up with concrete operational guidelines that would allow them to effectively work together in securing the people’s safety and well-being in Basilan and elsewhere in Mindanao,” Ferrer said.

The Basilan incident took place days before the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, led by MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal, submitted the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to the Palace.

The BBL will create the Bangsamoro, a political entity that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

A Palace legal team composed of deputy executive secretary for legal affairs Michael Aguinaldo, chief presidential legal counsel Benjamin Caguioa, Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza, and other government legal experts is now going through the draft BBL.

The leadership of both houses of Congress have committed to pass the BBL by December, after which a plebiscite will be held in the first quarter of 2015.

The plebiscite will cover the current provinces and cities in the ARMM, the cities of Isabela and Cotabato, six municipalities in Lanao del Norte, and 39 villages in six municipalities in Cotabato.

After the plebiscite, the government aims to put the Bangsamoro Transition Authority in place by 2015 to serve as the interim government until the elections in 2016.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/04/21/milf-dared-expel-criminal-members/

Navy to build own radars

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 21): Navy to build own radars
 
The Philippine Navy is now planning to construct its own radar sets in a bid to fully secure the country's vast airspace from intruders with the assistance of the Naval Research and Development Center (NRDC).

This is under the NRDC's Project "Itaas" (Filipino for high ground), PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.

This project is aimed at creating quality radar sets for all fleet units.

He added that Project "Itaas" is one of the five priority projects of the NRDC.

The other four programs include sonar equipment creation capability under Project "Ilalim" (literally meaning underwater), platforms under Project "Kuyog" (group) and the way ahead Project of NRDC, the satellite project under Project "Tuktuk" (surveillance) and Project "Putok" (explosives) for creation of modern munitions.

PN flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano said that these projects are primarily designed to support the Active Archipelagic Defense Strategy which focuses mainly on the enhancement of maritime situational awareness and maritime operations.

These projects, when successfully pursued and executed through the partnership from the triad members, will mark a distinctive level of significance to the ideal of raising the PN’s level of research and development through the absorption of new technologies.

"This will pave the way to prevent the country from being technologically outwitted by any adversary," Alano concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=636442

Tribes support boosts Nur’s ‘Bangsamoro Republic’ bid — MNLF

From the opposition Daily Tribune (Apr 21): Tribes support boosts Nur’s ‘Bangsamoro Republic’ bid — MNLF

The Moro National Liberation Front’s (MNLF) pursuit for an independent Islamic state, through its Bangsamoro Republic, is gaining ground in various parts of Mindanao despite the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the government of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

This was according to MNLF spokesman lawyer Emmanuel Fontanilla, who claimed that more than 30 tribal groups in Mindanao, particularly in Davao areas, have expressed support to the MNLF’s pursuit for independence from the Philippine government.

“All of Mindanao, 36 tribes declared support, 60 percent of Christians composed the MNLF,” he added.

Fontanilla said the MNLF leaders are continuously doing the rounds in various parts of Mindanao to educate the people about Bangsamoro Republic.

“The people are realizing that if resources of Mindanao will be for Mindanao, they will become developed,” he added.

“We will continue reaching out to our people,” the MNLF official vowed.
Fontanilla stressed the MNLF will use all possible peaceful means to achieve its goal for independence.

According to him, said he is not aware of the reported 4,000 members of the MILF joining the MNLF ranks.

Reports showed that four MILF ranking commanders, each having 1,000 fighters, have joined MNLF because they are not ready to give up their firearms as stipulated in the recently signed CAB between the GRP and the MILF.

A Tribune source, however, said the reports are not far-fetched, citing the Muslim culture of bearing of firearms for men is given.

“For our Muslim brothers, having firearms is normal as wearing clothes... that culture is difficult to change,” he added.

The MNLF, under Nur Misuari, last August declared independence from the Philippine government and established its so-called Bangsamoro Republic in protest of the peace negotiations between the GRP and the MILF.

Subsequently, more than 300 MNLF fighters, led by Ustadz Habier Malik, marched to Zamboanga City last September supposedly to raise the MNLF flag but were prevented, causing a 21-day conflict that resulted in the killing of more than 200 MNLF men and more than 20 government security forces.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/tribes-support-boosts-nur-s-bangsamoro-republic-bid-mnlf

China eavesdropping on PH maritime activities?

From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (Apr 20): China eavesdropping on PH maritime activities?

China has not only deployed and maintained the presence of its surveillance and navy ships in the West Philippine Sea, but has positioned advanced communications equipment as well to eavesdrop on all naval and maritime activities of the Philippine military based in Palawan.

“The Chinese, using their advanced communication equipment, are now capable of intercepting and monitoring our military communications, be it onshore or offshore,” a military communication expert revealed recently.

The focus of the electronic eavesdropping is the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (Wescom).

Wescom has the primary responsibility in protecting, guarding and enforcing the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea, a large part of which is being claimed by China as an integral part of its maritime domain.

The military, however, said countermeasures has been implemented to address this concern. They declined to give details, citing security issues.

Earlier intelligence reports showed Beijing is installing additional powerful radars on its already-fortified advanced naval station on Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, an area it illegally occupied in 1994, in line with its plan to have total dominance of the entire region by year 2020.

Panganiban Reef is 130 nautical miles from Palawan and is within the country’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

Chinese vessels deployed in the region – missile-firing frigates, troop transport vessels and surveillance ships – are now using Panganiban Reef as their forward and supply base.

Aside from several radar domes, windmills power the Chinese naval posts.

One military communication expert also revealed that aside from conducting massive maritime monitoring to determine offshore and onshore activities of Wescom, the Chinese are also eavesdropping on telephone communications of senior military officials directly involved in maritime security in the region.

“This was the reason why nobody was allowed to call or text or post anything on social media when we launched our resupply and troop rotation operations at Ayungin Shoal last month,” the official said.

Since May last year, China has been trying to occupy Ayungin Shoal currently guarded by a Marine contingent aboard the grounded Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre. The Chinese have since deployed, on a regular basis, its surveillance ships around the shoal.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/20/14/china-eavesdropping-ph-maritime-activities

DND sets rebidding for 8 amphibious assault vehicles

From ABS-CBN (Apr 20): DND sets rebidding for 8 amphibious assault vehicles

Due to a failed bidding back in November, the Department of National Defense (DND) has called for a second round of bidding for eight new amphibious assault vehicles worth P2.5 billion.

Assistant Defense Secretary Efren Fernandez said the pre-bid conference will be on April 29, while the deadline and consequent opening of the bids will be on May 15 at 10 a.m.

Only one firm purchased bid documents last year, Samsung Techwin of South Korea. It did not tender a bid, however, because it failed to satisfy several requirements.

“Bidders should have completed within 10 years, from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the project,” Fernandez said.

The bidding is open to both local and foreign firms.

The vehicles, which will be part of the Philippine Navy assets, should be delivered within 910 days upon opening of the letter of credit.

The bidding will be conducted via open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criteria as specified in the implementing rules and regulations of the Government Procurement Act.

In case the public bidding fails several times, there is a government-to-government negotiation option.

Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Gerald Fabic had said the amphibious assault vehicles will boost the capability of the Navy for its fleet-marine operations.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/20/14/dnd-sets-rebidding-8-amphibious-assault-vehicles

Defense top agenda of Obama visit to PH

From Rappler (Apr 20): Defense top agenda of Obama visit to PH

Aquino, Obama to discuss 'strategic partnerships'

Defense and security will be on top of the agenda when United States President Barack Obama meets President Benigno Aquino III on April 28 to April 29.

The visit is part of Obama's trip to 4 Asian nations. Aside from the Philippines, Obama is also visiting Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia.

"Yun pong darating na pag-uusap ni Pangulong Aquino at Pangulong Obama ay maaaring sumentro doon sa tinatawag na strategic partnership sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at ng Estados Unidos. At mahalagang bahagi ng pakikipag-ugnayang ito at kooperasyong ito ay nasa larangan ng defense at security," Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said.

(The impending meeting of President Aquino and President Obama may focus on what we call strategic partnership between the Philippines and the United States. An important part of this dialogue and cooperation has to do with defense and security)

The visit comes in the midst of the Philippines' territorial dispute with China.

Amid ongoing tensions in Ayungin Shoal, the Philippines and the United States are in the final stages of negotiating an enhanced defense deal that would give Americans wider access to Philippine military bases.

Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr earlier said he hopes the deal would be finalized on or before Obama's visit to the country. But Malacañang has denied accusations panels were rushing the deal in time for the US President's trip.

'Asian pivot'

During his 4-nation trip, Obama is expected to underscore his administration's planned diplomatic and military "rebalance" towards Asia Pacific.

Coloma said the so-called "Asian pivot" is the guiding context behind Obama's visit to the region.

US National Security Adviser Susan Rice earlier said Obama's trip to Asia will not involve large summits, unlike many of his overseas trips, the Washington Post reported.

The same report said Obama will take a look at a new electronic vehicle in the Philippines called the "Comet" during his overnight visit.

Groups opposed to increased US presence in the country are expected to stage protests during Obama's visit.

Coloma gave assurances that freedom of expression will be upheld, adding that police forces are prepared to maintain peace and order during the trip.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/55889-defense-top-agenda-obama-visit-ph

Bangsamoro draft law 'complete'

From Rappler (Apr 20): Bangsamoro draft law 'complete'

But not all commissioners sign the proposed law which will be submitted to Malacañang for review

STAKEHOLDERS. Peace supporters gather outside the office of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission in Cotabato City ahead of the scheduled signing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Photo by Bangsamoro Transition Commission

 

On Easter Sunday, April 20, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) signed their final draft of the proposed law for a new political region in Mindanao.

"Yes, all signed except those who were absent," BTC chairman Mohagher Iqbal told Rappler in a text message at 9:45 pm.

As of posting time, Iqbal had yet to respond to Rappler's question on who were not present during the signing ceremony.

The signing comes a week after the body submitted a partial draft to President Benigno Aquino III for evaluation and review. The initial draft had yet to contain key details on the police structure for the political entity, automatic block grants, the special development fund, and Bangsamoro waters. (READ: Incomplete Bangsamoro draft law sent to Aquino)

The crafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law marks the second phase of the peace process in Mindanao – the crucial implementation phase. The first phase culminated with the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro on March 27.

With the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law now signed, the BTC is expected to transmit in the coming days their version of the basic law to President Benigno Aquino III for review and evaluation before it is sent to Congress for deliberations.

But the process was not as rosy as it seemed.

Who didn't sign?

Rappler earlier reported that some BTC members nominated by the government were unhappy with how protocols determined by the commission itself were being set aside.

One of the issues had to do with transparency on how the BTC decided on the contents of the basic law, a source privy to BTC matters said.

Under BTC's internal rules, each committee (basic rights, culture, social justice, and indigenous peoples' matters; transitory provisions, amendments, revisions and miscellaneous matters; political autonomy; fiscal autonomy; justice and security matters) would submit a report to plenary. The body would then decide through votes on whether to accept or deny the proposals.

In an interview with Mindanews, BTC chairman Mohagher Iqbal denied that the basic law was being railroaded. Iqbal also served as the chief negotiator for the MILF during the peace talks.

When the BTC submitted the partial draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law to Malacañang, a Rappler source said the document had yet to be signed by all members of the commission.

In a post on the official website of the MILF, Luwaran.com, the MILF said all 15 commissioners of the MILF-dominated body are expected to sign the draft law "without reservations." But it also hinted at an internal conflict within the commission.

The press release said:

"If by chance, any commissioner decides not to affix his/her signature to the proposed BBL [Bangsamoro basic law], such is within the purview of his or her right. No one can question that. But one thing sure is that he or she has to explain why he or she did not sign. History will judge his or her decision. But in the immediate, the negative decision will surely make the spoilers happy; they will feast on this even if the decision was based on reasons personally well-thought-out."

It added: "Better this early, every BTC commissioner must examine his or her conscience whether what side to vote: positively or negatively – and it is the right thing."

Citing unnamed sources, Mindanews earlier reported that some commissioners were already planning not to sign the draft law and were preparing a minority report.

A day before the scheduled signing, speculation circulated in social media that the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) asked 3 commissioners not to sign the proposed law.

Government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer denied the rumors.

In a statement issued Saturday night, April 19, Ferrer said OPAPP "gave no instruction to any BTC commissioner not to sign the draft."

She admitted holding meetings with government representatives to the BTC but only for updates and consultations, and shot down speculations about holding any "secret meetings."

The BTC was created through Executive Order 120. The MILF nominated 8 of the commission's members, including the chairman, while 7 members were nominated by the government.

Copy of draft Bangsamoro law won't be released yet

After being constituted formally as a body in April 2013, the BTC embarked on public consultations across Mindanao. When they sat down for marathon sessions to craft the Basic Law, however, the sessions were largely held behind closed doors.

And the final product of the deliberations – the Bangsamoro Basic Law – won't be released until the passage of the law in Congress is assured.

"As a matter of fact, one lady commissioner, a nominee of the government, requested that every commissioner will be given a copy for posterity's sake," the MILF said in Luwaran.com.

"The BTC agreed but the copy will not be given to the commissioners until at a later date when full disclosure of the BBL will not compromise its smooth deliberation in Congress. Besides, an engagement with the government in this regard is required," it added.

The proposed law would have to go through two rounds of deliberations and approval – first, in Congress; and second, during the plebisicite in Bangsamoro core areas.

This early, lawmakers, including Sen Miriam Defensor Santiago, have raised concerns about the constitutionality of the measure.

Under EO 120, part of the mandate of the BTC is to recommend proposed amendments to the 1987 Philippines Constitution "whenever necessary." But the government has explained the final peace agreement makes no guarantees that the proposed amendments will be included in the Basic Law.

Amending the Constitution to accommodate the Bangsamoro Basic Law would cost more time for the peace process, making the 2016 target deadline for the creation of the new political entity harder to beat.

The peace agreement between the government and the MILF aims to create a new region with greater political and fiscal powers than the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao – which it is set to replace – as rebels decommission their troops and firearms.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/55911-transition-commission-finishes-bangsamoro-draft-law