From the Philippine Star (May 20): Abu Sayyaf bombing plots in Zambo confirmed
Government security forces stepped up the security in this city after confirming plots of the Abu Sayyaf group to bomb gas stations and other “highly” vulnerable areas.
The bombing plans, however, were foiled following the arrest Saturday of one of the suspected Abu Sayyaf bombers outside a military base in this city, according to City Police Director Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro.
Casimiro said the suspect - Nujir Ahidji alias Abu Jomar – said to be expert in making improvised explosive device (IED) – is still undergoing tactical interrogation.
He said the arrest of Ahidji, a native of Jolo, Sulu, came following the surveillance on and intelligence information about the terror plot.
According to Casimirio, Ahidji is reportedly connected with the terror cells based in Sulu and Basilan provinces, and cohorts operating in Pikit town in North Cotabato.
“These are new graduates (bombers) and some have already conducted activities in Pikit where one of the bombs was disrupted and the two others went off,” Casimiro told newsmen here during a briefing at the city hall Monday.
Casimiro disclosed that the terror group has included in their targets gas stations, pubs, and other public places.
The police official also revealed that first responders, including the police and military bomb squads, are among the targets of the terror group.
According to Casimiro, following the arrest of Ahidji and the recovery of components of IEDs, they are still tracking down six improvised bombs fashioned through mortar shells in Basilan and two others in this city.
He said Ahidji is facing charges of illegal possession of explosives while detained at the city police office.
Lamitan City in Basilan province also intensified its security alert following the threats posed by the Abu Sayyaf group.
Lamitan City Mayor Rose Furigay and vice Mayor Roderick Furigay called an emergency meeting with their 45 barangay chairmen, police, and military authorities and laid down their security plans against the bombing plot of the terror group.
The security briefing came after police and military defused one of the Abu Sayyaf IEDs planted at sitio Lagasan, Barangay Kulay Bato last Sunday.
Mayor Furigay lauded the immediate response of the police and military in the discovery of the IED.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/05/20/1325339/abu-sayys-bombing-plots-zambo-confirmed
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
ARMM leaders, Army, PNP vow support to decommissioning of MILF forces
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): ARMM leaders, Army, PNP vow support to decommissioning of MILF forces
Major stakeholders in the proposed new political entity have expressed full support to the International Decommissioning Body (IDB) which will oversee the deactivation of Moro rebels following the signing of theMindanao
peace deal.
The Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB) was signed by the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on March 27 and among its provisions is to decommission rebels as part of the normalization process.
Chief Superintendent Noel Delos Reyes, police regional director of the five-province ARMM, and Major General Romeo Gapuz, 6th Infantry Division commander, were among the those who expressed their support to IDB.
The 6th ID’s rank-and-file personnel will support the programs and activities of the IDB, according to Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesman of 6th ID, which is based in Maguindanao, one of the component provinces of ARMM.
Delos Reyes has already ordered all police directors in the region to study the modalities of the IDB’s operation and to help formulate measures on how the ARMM police can complement its decommissioning initiatives.
ARMM is home to most of the MILF guerillas who fought the government for several decades hoping to achieve the right to self determination.
Earlier, chief government negotiator Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the IDB’s creation was part of recent discussions between the government and MILF peace panels inKuala Lumpur ,
Malaysia
“The IDB would be the one to supervise, oversee and basically implement the decommissioning process,” Ferrer said in a statement released by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
Explaining the details of the discussion, Ferrer said the MILF has agreed to submit a list of its weapons and combatants, to be verified by the IDB, which will implement the decommissioning process.
Ferrer also said the MILF combatants will undergo training according to the procedures set forth by the Armed Forces of thePhilippines
ARMM Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman said his administration welcomes the creation of IDB’s.
Hataman said all the elected town mayors in the region’s more than 100 municipalities are ready to extend support to the IDB.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645227
Major stakeholders in the proposed new political entity have expressed full support to the International Decommissioning Body (IDB) which will oversee the deactivation of Moro rebels following the signing of the
The Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB) was signed by the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on March 27 and among its provisions is to decommission rebels as part of the normalization process.
Chief Superintendent Noel Delos Reyes, police regional director of the five-province ARMM, and Major General Romeo Gapuz, 6th Infantry Division commander, were among the those who expressed their support to IDB.
The 6th ID’s rank-and-file personnel will support the programs and activities of the IDB, according to Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesman of 6th ID, which is based in Maguindanao, one of the component provinces of ARMM.
Delos Reyes has already ordered all police directors in the region to study the modalities of the IDB’s operation and to help formulate measures on how the ARMM police can complement its decommissioning initiatives.
ARMM is home to most of the MILF guerillas who fought the government for several decades hoping to achieve the right to self determination.
Earlier, chief government negotiator Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the IDB’s creation was part of recent discussions between the government and MILF peace panels in
“The IDB would be the one to supervise, oversee and basically implement the decommissioning process,” Ferrer said in a statement released by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
Explaining the details of the discussion, Ferrer said the MILF has agreed to submit a list of its weapons and combatants, to be verified by the IDB, which will implement the decommissioning process.
Ferrer also said the MILF combatants will undergo training according to the procedures set forth by the Armed Forces of the
ARMM Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman said his administration welcomes the creation of IDB’s.
Hataman said all the elected town mayors in the region’s more than 100 municipalities are ready to extend support to the IDB.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645227
Police: Abu Sayyaf bomb expert’s arrest disrupts bombing plot
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): Police: Abu Sayyaf bomb expert’s arrest disrupts bombing plot
A top police official disclosed that the recent arrest of an Abu Sayyaf explosive expert has disrupted plans to bomb vital installations in this city.
Local police officer-in-charge Senior Supt. Angelito Casimiro has confirmed plans by terror groups to bomb gasoline stations and other highly vulnerable public areas in the city.
However, Casimiro said such plan was disrupted with the arrest of Nujir Ahidji alias Abu Jomar and the recovery of bomb-making components.
Jomar was arrested when the combined Task Force Zamboanga and local police operatives, armed with a search warrant, raided a house around 7 a.m. Saturday at5th Street
The raiding team have recovered from the possession of Jomar a mobile phone, electrical wirings, adhesive tapes and blasting caps.
Casimiro said that appropriate charges have been filed against Jomar.
Also targets of the planned bombings are police and military personnel, he said.
Casimiro said that Jomar's group is reportedly connected with terror cells operating in Sulu and Basilan provinces, with some of its members conducting terror activities as far asNorth Cotabato .
He disclosed that they received information that there are new recruits and new graduates of terror group and some of them have already undertaken bombing activity in Pikit, North Cotabato recently wherein one of the bombs was disrupted while the other two went off.
He said they have tightened security to avert bombing plot by terror group in this city.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645353
A top police official disclosed that the recent arrest of an Abu Sayyaf explosive expert has disrupted plans to bomb vital installations in this city.
Local police officer-in-charge Senior Supt. Angelito Casimiro has confirmed plans by terror groups to bomb gasoline stations and other highly vulnerable public areas in the city.
However, Casimiro said such plan was disrupted with the arrest of Nujir Ahidji alias Abu Jomar and the recovery of bomb-making components.
Jomar was arrested when the combined Task Force Zamboanga and local police operatives, armed with a search warrant, raided a house around 7 a.m. Saturday at
The raiding team have recovered from the possession of Jomar a mobile phone, electrical wirings, adhesive tapes and blasting caps.
Casimiro said that appropriate charges have been filed against Jomar.
Also targets of the planned bombings are police and military personnel, he said.
Casimiro said that Jomar's group is reportedly connected with terror cells operating in Sulu and Basilan provinces, with some of its members conducting terror activities as far as
He disclosed that they received information that there are new recruits and new graduates of terror group and some of them have already undertaken bombing activity in Pikit, North Cotabato recently wherein one of the bombs was disrupted while the other two went off.
He said they have tightened security to avert bombing plot by terror group in this city.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645353
(Update changing dateline) 2 more NPAs die in North Cotabato following foiled attempt to overrun police office
From the Philippine News Agency (May 21): (Update changing dateline) 2 more NPAs die in North Cotabato following foiled attempt to overrun police office
Two more communist guerillas were killed Tuesday night in a follow up operations conducted by the military after the rebels tried but failed to overrun a police office inNorth Cotabato ,
raising the death toll to five, the military said.
Colonel Nilo Vinluan, commander of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said the two members of the New Peoples Army (NPA) were killed during pursuit operations in Barangay Bagumbayan, Magpet, North Cotabato, hours after the rebels attacked the police office in President Roxas town, also inNorth
Cotabato .
In the early morning attempt by the rebels, three NPA rebels were killed in action while another was rushed to hospital for treatment.
Vinluan identified the fatalities as Ronald Arnado, alias "Kumander Revo," an alias "Totoy Gamay," and Ibot Gumay, of Sitio Buay-Buay, Basak, Magpet,North Cotabato . Orly
Gabison, another NPA member of Amabel, Magpet, was wounded and was brought to
the Cotabato provincial hospital.
Senior Inspector Bernabe Rubio, police chief of President Roxas and another subordinate were wounded during the hour-long exchange of bullets between about 70 armed men, led by Commander Revo and the 15 obviously outnumbered policemen.
Rubio said one of his men fired the first shot when he noticed armed men surrounding the two-storey police office.
"One of my men fired the first shot and gun bursts did not stop until the rebels retreated," Rubio, who suffered cuts on his head, told reporters.
"We have the intelligence reports that the NPAs will try to overrun our office, so we prepared," Rubio said.
Rep. Nancy Catamco ofNorth Cotabato 's 2nd
district, is set to file resolution commending Rubio and his men for gallantry
defending their office.
Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas also commended Rubio for the job well done and reiterated the PNP's commitment to protect communities.
"This incident demonstrates the firm resolve of the men and women of the PNP to carry out their mandate of ensuring peace and security in our communities, whatever the odds. I expect PNP units all over the country to maintain such standard," Roxas said.
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza condemned the NPA attack, calling it atrocious and terrorists act.
"We, therefore, condemn any act of atrocity or of terrorism in our province in the midst of all our efforts of finding a lasting solution to these armed conflicts and thereby achieve peace. We urge those responsible for these illegal acts to stop them in order to enhance the healthy dynamism of the process of forging a lasting peace,"Mendoza
Mayor Jaime Mahimpit of President Roxas assured his constituents the local government is in control of the situation.
Vinluan said he was saddened the NPA had to attack a police office and leave their fallen comrades behind.
"It pains me to see NPAs and soldiers getting killed in encounters when we could have sit down and talk, it pains me to see Filipinos fighting each other," Vinluan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645523
Two more communist guerillas were killed Tuesday night in a follow up operations conducted by the military after the rebels tried but failed to overrun a police office in
Colonel Nilo Vinluan, commander of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said the two members of the New Peoples Army (NPA) were killed during pursuit operations in Barangay Bagumbayan, Magpet, North Cotabato, hours after the rebels attacked the police office in President Roxas town, also in
In the early morning attempt by the rebels, three NPA rebels were killed in action while another was rushed to hospital for treatment.
Vinluan identified the fatalities as Ronald Arnado, alias "Kumander Revo," an alias "Totoy Gamay," and Ibot Gumay, of Sitio Buay-Buay, Basak, Magpet,
Senior Inspector Bernabe Rubio, police chief of President Roxas and another subordinate were wounded during the hour-long exchange of bullets between about 70 armed men, led by Commander Revo and the 15 obviously outnumbered policemen.
Rubio said one of his men fired the first shot when he noticed armed men surrounding the two-storey police office.
"One of my men fired the first shot and gun bursts did not stop until the rebels retreated," Rubio, who suffered cuts on his head, told reporters.
"We have the intelligence reports that the NPAs will try to overrun our office, so we prepared," Rubio said.
Rep. Nancy Catamco of
Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas also commended Rubio for the job well done and reiterated the PNP's commitment to protect communities.
"This incident demonstrates the firm resolve of the men and women of the PNP to carry out their mandate of ensuring peace and security in our communities, whatever the odds. I expect PNP units all over the country to maintain such standard," Roxas said.
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza condemned the NPA attack, calling it atrocious and terrorists act.
"We, therefore, condemn any act of atrocity or of terrorism in our province in the midst of all our efforts of finding a lasting solution to these armed conflicts and thereby achieve peace. We urge those responsible for these illegal acts to stop them in order to enhance the healthy dynamism of the process of forging a lasting peace,"
Mayor Jaime Mahimpit of President Roxas assured his constituents the local government is in control of the situation.
Vinluan said he was saddened the NPA had to attack a police office and leave their fallen comrades behind.
"It pains me to see NPAs and soldiers getting killed in encounters when we could have sit down and talk, it pains me to see Filipinos fighting each other," Vinluan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=645523
DND opens bidding for six close-air support aircraft
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): DND opens bidding for six close-air support aircraft
In a bid to give the Philippine Air Force (PAF) more offensive capabilities, the Department of National Defense (DND) has open the bidding for six close air support (CAS) aircraft.
The project has a budget of P4,968,000,000 which will be sourced from the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.
CAS refers to capability to provide air support to infantry and naval units in contact with the enemy.
The above-mentioned aircraft is the projected replacement of the PAF's existing Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack planes.
DND undersecretary Fernando Manalo said that the contract includes integrated logistic support system.
Winning bidders must be able to deliver the aircraft within 540 calendar days from contract effectivity.
Participants in the DND's CAS project must have completed a similar program within the last 10 years.
Manalo added that the CAS aircraft must be used by the countries offering and manufacturing them.
Pre-bid conference is schedule for this coming May 28 at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee conference room, basement right wing,DND
Building , Camp
Aguinaldo , Quezon City
Bid opening is slated on June 11.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645461
In a bid to give the Philippine Air Force (PAF) more offensive capabilities, the Department of National Defense (DND) has open the bidding for six close air support (CAS) aircraft.
The project has a budget of P4,968,000,000 which will be sourced from the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.
CAS refers to capability to provide air support to infantry and naval units in contact with the enemy.
The above-mentioned aircraft is the projected replacement of the PAF's existing Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack planes.
DND undersecretary Fernando Manalo said that the contract includes integrated logistic support system.
Winning bidders must be able to deliver the aircraft within 540 calendar days from contract effectivity.
Participants in the DND's CAS project must have completed a similar program within the last 10 years.
Manalo added that the CAS aircraft must be used by the countries offering and manufacturing them.
Pre-bid conference is schedule for this coming May 28 at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee conference room, basement right wing,
Bid opening is slated on June 11.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645461
DND to acquire two long-range patrol aircraft
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): DND to acquire two long-range patrol aircraft
In a bid to enhance the country's capabilities to protect and defend its airspace, the Department of National Defense (DND) announced that it is allocating the sum of P5,976,000,000 to acquire two brand-new long-range patrol aircraft.
The money will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act Trust Fund.
This includes sensors, sensor integration, mission support facilities and integrated logistic support, DND undersecretary Fernando Manalo said.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the aircraft within 1,035 calendar days upon receipt of the notice to proceed.
Manalo added that participants must have completed a similar project within the last 10 years.
First stage pre-bid conference is scheduled this coming May 30, 10 a.m. at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee conference room, right wing, basement room, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
First stage bid is slated for June 13, also 10 a.m. and in the above-mentioned room.
Manalo said that suppliers of the aircraft must also be the manufacturers themselves.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645462
In a bid to enhance the country's capabilities to protect and defend its airspace, the Department of National Defense (DND) announced that it is allocating the sum of P5,976,000,000 to acquire two brand-new long-range patrol aircraft.
The money will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act Trust Fund.
This includes sensors, sensor integration, mission support facilities and integrated logistic support, DND undersecretary Fernando Manalo said.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the aircraft within 1,035 calendar days upon receipt of the notice to proceed.
Manalo added that participants must have completed a similar project within the last 10 years.
First stage pre-bid conference is scheduled this coming May 30, 10 a.m. at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee conference room, right wing, basement room, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
First stage bid is slated for June 13, also 10 a.m. and in the above-mentioned room.
Manalo said that suppliers of the aircraft must also be the manufacturers themselves.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645462
(Update) Rebels killed in North Cotabato police station attack identified
From the Philippine News Agency (May 21): (Update) Rebels killed in North Cotabato police station attack identified
The Eastern Mindanao Command on Wednesday has identified the three rebels, which included a ranking New People's Army (NPA) commander, killed in Tuesday's botched attack at the President Roxas Municipal Police Station.
Capt. Alberto Caber, the unit's spokesperson, identified the recovered dead rebel as one "Cmdr Revo", (real name Ronald Arnado) a resident of Barangay Sto. Nino, Arakan,North Cotabato ; a
certain Totoy Gamay and another "Dodoy", a resident of Barangay Datu
Manangkil, also of Arakan town.
Arnado is one of the ranking leaders of the NPA's Guerilla Front 53.
He added that pursuing military and police units have captured a wounded NPA fighter identified as Orly Gabison, 21, a resident of Barangay Amabel, Magpet,North Cotabato .
The rebel is now undergoing treatment atAmas Provincial
Hospital
Caber said recovered items included two .45 caliber pistols, an improvised explosive device with triggering device, several M-16 magazines with ammunition, M-14 magazines with ammunition, two containers of gasoline.
The Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson stated that around 100 rebels headed by Arnado launched the attack at the President Roxas Municipal Police Station around 3:45 a.m.
The 40-minute firefight resulted in the death of Arnado and his two companions and the slight wounding of Insp. Bernabe Rubio, President Roxas Municipal Police Station, who was hit in the forehead with glass fragments.
Pursuit operations are now being conducted by troopers of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade and 57th Infantry Battalion.
The rebels arrived near President Roxas Municipal Police Station around 3:30 a.m. onboard three commandeered vehicles - one forward truck, one Elf-type truck and a multi-cab.
The NPAs were reportedly wearing camouflage uniforms and tried to overrun the police station.
57th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Nilo Vinluan said the NPA attack failed because of the alertness of the police which was attributable to timely information from the community.
"The alert policemen occupied a favorable position at the second floor of the station and were able to deliver effective fire from there, preventing the entry of the attacking NPA," Vinluan stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645526
The Eastern Mindanao Command on Wednesday has identified the three rebels, which included a ranking New People's Army (NPA) commander, killed in Tuesday's botched attack at the President Roxas Municipal Police Station.
Capt. Alberto Caber, the unit's spokesperson, identified the recovered dead rebel as one "Cmdr Revo", (real name Ronald Arnado) a resident of Barangay Sto. Nino, Arakan,
Arnado is one of the ranking leaders of the NPA's Guerilla Front 53.
He added that pursuing military and police units have captured a wounded NPA fighter identified as Orly Gabison, 21, a resident of Barangay Amabel, Magpet,
The rebel is now undergoing treatment at
Caber said recovered items included two .45 caliber pistols, an improvised explosive device with triggering device, several M-16 magazines with ammunition, M-14 magazines with ammunition, two containers of gasoline.
The Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson stated that around 100 rebels headed by Arnado launched the attack at the President Roxas Municipal Police Station around 3:45 a.m.
The 40-minute firefight resulted in the death of Arnado and his two companions and the slight wounding of Insp. Bernabe Rubio, President Roxas Municipal Police Station, who was hit in the forehead with glass fragments.
Pursuit operations are now being conducted by troopers of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade and 57th Infantry Battalion.
The rebels arrived near President Roxas Municipal Police Station around 3:30 a.m. onboard three commandeered vehicles - one forward truck, one Elf-type truck and a multi-cab.
The NPAs were reportedly wearing camouflage uniforms and tried to overrun the police station.
57th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Nilo Vinluan said the NPA attack failed because of the alertness of the police which was attributable to timely information from the community.
"The alert policemen occupied a favorable position at the second floor of the station and were able to deliver effective fire from there, preventing the entry of the attacking NPA," Vinluan stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645526
Solons seek P1-B budget for fortification, improvement of Kalayaan Islands’ defense structures
From the Philippine News Agency (May 21): Solons seek P1-B budget for fortification, improvement of Kalayaan Islands’ defense structures
Mindanao lawmakers are seeking a P 1 billion appropriation for the improvement, fortification and building of structures in the Kalayaan Group of Islands inPalawan to protect the sovereignty
of the country, solidify its claim over the area, and promote tourism industry
in the locality.
The proposed P 1 billion appropriation would be used for the construction of a safe harbor, berthing facilities and the repair of the Rancudo airfield on Pag-asa island. The fund would also be used to enhance the tourism industry of theIslands , according to Reps. Rufus
Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City) and his younger brother Rep.
Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party-list, Abante Mindanao).
“In order to strengthen our claim and protect our sovereignty, we need to build more structures and fortify our defense of these islands, particularly the construction of a safe harbor as well as the repair of the Rancudo airfield onPag-asa Island Kalayaan Islands
According to the lawmakers,Kalayaan
Islands is a fifth class municipality
in Palawan , which has a population of around
300 to 400 people. It has one barangay, Pag-asa, and a 1.3-kilometer airstrip
that is used by both the military and civilians.
TheKalayaan Islands
have been the subject of claims of different countries including Vietnam , Palau ,
Malaysia and China
The country said the areas covered byVietnam ’s
unilateral partial submission are “disputed because they overlap with those of
the Philippines Philippines also
contested the submission by the Republic
of Palau sea of Palau
is measured overlaps with the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines
The lawmakers noted that at present, the different countries, particularlyChina , have built strong fortifications and military
structures in the Kalayaan
Islands
In House Bill 4167, the lawmakers sought the appropriation of P 1 billion for the improvement, fortification and building of structures in the Kalayaan Group ofIslands . An annual report regarding
the use of the funds appropriated shall be submitted to both the Senate and the
House, the bill provides.
The bill is now pending at the House committee on appropriations chaired by Rep. Isidro Ungab, Jr. (3rd District,Davao City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645577
Mindanao lawmakers are seeking a P 1 billion appropriation for the improvement, fortification and building of structures in the Kalayaan Group of Islands in
The proposed P 1 billion appropriation would be used for the construction of a safe harbor, berthing facilities and the repair of the Rancudo airfield on Pag-asa island. The fund would also be used to enhance the tourism industry of the
“In order to strengthen our claim and protect our sovereignty, we need to build more structures and fortify our defense of these islands, particularly the construction of a safe harbor as well as the repair of the Rancudo airfield on
According to the lawmakers,
The
The country said the areas covered by
The lawmakers noted that at present, the different countries, particularly
In House Bill 4167, the lawmakers sought the appropriation of P 1 billion for the improvement, fortification and building of structures in the Kalayaan Group of
The bill is now pending at the House committee on appropriations chaired by Rep. Isidro Ungab, Jr. (3rd District,
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645577
PHL WPS presence to be boosted by new ships- PN spokesperson
From the Philippine News Agency (May 21): PHL WPS presence to be boosted by new ships- PN spokesperson
The Philippine Navy (PN) expects to beef up its presence in theWest Philippine Sea with the arrival of more modern
ships.
"With the two additional frigates plus one more Hamilton-class cutter in the pipeline, that will assure us of a 24/7 presence in theWest Philippine Sea ," Navy spokesperson Col. Edgard
Arevalo, said.
He was referring to the two missile-armed frigates now undergoing bidding for P18 billion.
These ships are expected to be in service in 2017 once the bidding is completed, Arevalo said.
These ships will be armed with a variety of sensors and weapons capable of detecting and neutralizing air, surface, and submarine threats, he said.
The brand-new frigates will also be capable of electronic warfare, he added.
Aside from this, the frigates, according to their technical specifications, must be capable of performing of extended maritime patrol with an embarked naval helicopter and extended maritime surveillance capability through air-and-surface-search radar, and sound navigation and ranging (sonar) for sub-surface search, Arevalo stressed.
The third Hamilton-class cutter, sister ships of the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), is also undergoing transfer negotiation.
Arevalo said that he has no idea on when this will be completed but pointed out that the third Hamilton-class cutter "is now in the pipeline".
These ships are expected to boost the country's maritime domain awareness capability.
Improvements on thePhilippines
This was stressed by a Department of National Defense position paper on the agreement.
The International Maritime Organization defines maritime domain awareness is the effective understanding of anything associated that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment of a country’s maritime domain.
In addition, maritime domain is defined as all areas and things of, on, under, relating to, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway.
This includes all maritime-related activities, infrastructure, people, cargo, and vessels and other conveyances.
In a military viewpoint, maritime domain awareness capability refers to the ability of a nation's armed forces to detect, monitor, and if needed, drive away intruders on its territorial waters.
These steps are now being done through the holding of joint training exercises such as "Balikatan".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645587
The Philippine Navy (PN) expects to beef up its presence in the
"With the two additional frigates plus one more Hamilton-class cutter in the pipeline, that will assure us of a 24/7 presence in the
He was referring to the two missile-armed frigates now undergoing bidding for P18 billion.
These ships are expected to be in service in 2017 once the bidding is completed, Arevalo said.
These ships will be armed with a variety of sensors and weapons capable of detecting and neutralizing air, surface, and submarine threats, he said.
The brand-new frigates will also be capable of electronic warfare, he added.
Aside from this, the frigates, according to their technical specifications, must be capable of performing of extended maritime patrol with an embarked naval helicopter and extended maritime surveillance capability through air-and-surface-search radar, and sound navigation and ranging (sonar) for sub-surface search, Arevalo stressed.
The third Hamilton-class cutter, sister ships of the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), is also undergoing transfer negotiation.
Arevalo said that he has no idea on when this will be completed but pointed out that the third Hamilton-class cutter "is now in the pipeline".
These ships are expected to boost the country's maritime domain awareness capability.
Improvements on the
This was stressed by a Department of National Defense position paper on the agreement.
The International Maritime Organization defines maritime domain awareness is the effective understanding of anything associated that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment of a country’s maritime domain.
In addition, maritime domain is defined as all areas and things of, on, under, relating to, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway.
This includes all maritime-related activities, infrastructure, people, cargo, and vessels and other conveyances.
In a military viewpoint, maritime domain awareness capability refers to the ability of a nation's armed forces to detect, monitor, and if needed, drive away intruders on its territorial waters.
These steps are now being done through the holding of joint training exercises such as "Balikatan".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645587
2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Quezon clash
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 20): 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Quezon clash
At least two suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed in an encounter with Army soldiers in Tayabas City on Monday afternoon, a regional military spokesman said Tuesday morning.
In a statement, Lt. Col.Lloyd Cabacungan, spokesman of the Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command, said that at 4:15 p.m., patrolling soldiers from the 85th Infantry Battalion engaged a band of still undetermined number of rebels in Sitio (sub-village) Pinagbanderahan in Barangay (village) Palali.
Cabacungan identified one of the slain communist guerrillas as a certain Peping Agudo, alleged logistics and finance officer of an NPA platoon under the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC). The other rebel casualty has yet to be identified.
Military record showed Agudo was captured in 2012 and jailed in Bicutan. However, he was able to jump bail and return to the underground movement.
The Army soldiers also recovered two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, and five backpacks with antigovernment documents left behind at the encounter site by the fleeing rebels.
Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo lauded the soldiers for the successful operation and called on the rebels to surrender and return to the fold of the law.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/603572/2-suspected-npa-rebels-killed-in-quezon-clash
At least two suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed in an encounter with Army soldiers in Tayabas City on Monday afternoon, a regional military spokesman said Tuesday morning.
In a statement, Lt. Col.Lloyd Cabacungan, spokesman of the Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command, said that at 4:15 p.m., patrolling soldiers from the 85th Infantry Battalion engaged a band of still undetermined number of rebels in Sitio (sub-village) Pinagbanderahan in Barangay (village) Palali.
Cabacungan identified one of the slain communist guerrillas as a certain Peping Agudo, alleged logistics and finance officer of an NPA platoon under the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC). The other rebel casualty has yet to be identified.
Military record showed Agudo was captured in 2012 and jailed in Bicutan. However, he was able to jump bail and return to the underground movement.
The Army soldiers also recovered two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, and five backpacks with antigovernment documents left behind at the encounter site by the fleeing rebels.
Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo lauded the soldiers for the successful operation and called on the rebels to surrender and return to the fold of the law.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/603572/2-suspected-npa-rebels-killed-in-quezon-clash
Spratly Islands: Foreign Correspondent visits remote reef flashpoint where Filipino marines hold out against Chinese navy
From ABC News Australia (May 20): Spratly Islands: Foreign Correspondent visits remote reef flashpoint where Filipino marines hold out against Chinese navy
As conflict zones go, you could do worse; palm-fringed beaches, fabulous reef diving, and abundant seafood. (It's not often I've had to knock back another lobster.)
It also tops the stakes for exclusive travel destinations. Don't even bother trying to book a tour. You have to persuade one of Asia's defence forces to take you, and it took me almost 20 years of trying.
So it's a great place to go to impress hardcore travellers. The downside is you're unlikely to see anything resembling a toilet or shower.
You'll also run the risk of being sprayed with water cannon by coast guard ships, or rammed onto a coral reef and drowning.
You may not have heard of the Spratly Islands, but if there's another war in our region it's very likely to be where it starts.
Cementing claims
Five nations - Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines - are competing for sovereignty over parts of the island chain and they're not afraid of using gunboat diplomacy to defend their claims.
But the big kid on the block is China, which asserts ownership of the entire island chain - in fact, the whole South China Sea - and is ramping up efforts to expel what it claims are foreign invaders.
Chinese vessels are currently blockading a Filipino military ship scuttled on an underwater reef, in a bid to starve out a hapless band of marines.
Like most big power conflicts, it is not about defending civilians or enforcing international law. It's mainly about oil.
The Spratly Islands are thought to sit on a vast, untapped undersea oil field, and whoever controls the islands, reefs and sandbars is going to be in the strongest position to exploit it.
Eugenio Bito-onon, known to everyone as Jun, is the mayor of the islands the Philippines has claimed in the Spratlys since the 1950s.
His municipality has just 150 residents, living mainly in a village on the island of Pagasa.
The other inhabitants are small bands of marines and soldiers living rough on tiny patches of rock, reef and sand so China can't occupy them.
He hopes his impoverished country is going to be the winner.
"We call our island group the submerged Saudi Arabia of the Philippines", he told me.
Cramped boat makes three-day trip only twice a year
After many years trying and failing to get to the Spratlys, we persuaded Mayor Jun to take us to Pagasa on a council boat he uses for twice-yearly supply runs.
It was crammed with chickens, pigs, rice, machinery, water, fuel, plants, medicine and nearly 200 passengers - a mix of council workers and island residents returning after a break on the mainland.
The boat was the size of a small ferry, meaning everyone had to sleep side by side.
A lucky few strung hammocks on the upper deck and enjoyed a slight breeze.
The rest of us crammed into the lower deck for three nights of sauna-like heat and rancid smells.
Even the communal-living Filipinos seemed as desperate to get off the boat as the personal-space obsessed Australians.
Mayor Jun is a rarity among Filipino politicians in that he's not doing the job for the money. That's just as well, because the national government gives his municipality hardly any.
Pagasa might be the Philippine's main tool to claim oil riches but it's little more than a collection of huts on dirt tracks.
There's not even a jetty, so we had to wade onto the beach carrying all our supplies.
'There's supposed to be a jetty but they never finished it,' Mayor Jun said.
It seems the money may have disappeared into the pockets of officials in Manila.
Vietnam, China, Malaysia have eyes on the prize
Explore the conflicting territorial claims in the South China Sea
Rival claimants have been keener to invest in their holdings.
Vietnam and China have built multi-storey military bases, not just on their islands but on underwater reefs.
Malaysia has even set up a luxury diving resort next to a military base on its island.
(It's the one easy way to get bragging rights to visiting a Spratly island. You can book a diving holiday online.)
China is building up a permanent maritime presence of Coast Guard ships and navy frigates to support its heavily armed bases.
Poor Pagasa has to rely on a dirt airstrip for military flights that can't even land if it rains.
Blockaded marines stuck on rusting hulk
For us, Mayor Jun's island was just a stopping point. Our main destination was a remote reef 14 hours' sailing away, called Ayungin Shoal.
It's where a group of Filipino marines on a rusting, scuttled ship called the Sierra Madre have been blockaded by Chinese maritime forces that want to seize the reef.
The Chinese are determined to stop anyone going there.
In recent months, China has been taking an increasingly hard line against "intruders" in the South China Sea.
In March, it twice blocked a Filipino marine detachment trying to reach Ayungin Shoal, and in April it tried to force back a civilian attempt to bring supplies.
Tensions boil over
The days of diplomatic wrangling appear to giving way to force.
After appeals from Mayor Jun, the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) gave us permission to go to Ayungin Shoal.
But they weren't prepared to take us there in a navy ship for fear of provoking the Chinese.
So, on a dark night, an hour before high tide, we left Pagasa in a small fishing boat to try to beat the Chinese blockade.
By late morning we had sighted the reef and two Chinese ships were bearing down on us.
The captain advised us to brace for water cannon.
The ships were closing fast and the reef seemed impossibly far away. I began to wonder if I should have picked an easier destination.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-20/oil-key-in-spratly-islands-dispute-south-china-sea/5463080
As conflict zones go, you could do worse; palm-fringed beaches, fabulous reef diving, and abundant seafood. (It's not often I've had to knock back another lobster.)
It also tops the stakes for exclusive travel destinations. Don't even bother trying to book a tour. You have to persuade one of Asia's defence forces to take you, and it took me almost 20 years of trying.
So it's a great place to go to impress hardcore travellers. The downside is you're unlikely to see anything resembling a toilet or shower.
You'll also run the risk of being sprayed with water cannon by coast guard ships, or rammed onto a coral reef and drowning.
You may not have heard of the Spratly Islands, but if there's another war in our region it's very likely to be where it starts.
Cementing claims
Countries have embarked on a program of building in order to try bolster their territorial claims to the islands.
Five nations - Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines - are competing for sovereignty over parts of the island chain and they're not afraid of using gunboat diplomacy to defend their claims.
But the big kid on the block is China, which asserts ownership of the entire island chain - in fact, the whole South China Sea - and is ramping up efforts to expel what it claims are foreign invaders.
Chinese vessels are currently blockading a Filipino military ship scuttled on an underwater reef, in a bid to starve out a hapless band of marines.
Like most big power conflicts, it is not about defending civilians or enforcing international law. It's mainly about oil.
The Spratly Islands are thought to sit on a vast, untapped undersea oil field, and whoever controls the islands, reefs and sandbars is going to be in the strongest position to exploit it.
Eugenio Bito-onon, known to everyone as Jun, is the mayor of the islands the Philippines has claimed in the Spratlys since the 1950s.
His municipality has just 150 residents, living mainly in a village on the island of Pagasa.
The other inhabitants are small bands of marines and soldiers living rough on tiny patches of rock, reef and sand so China can't occupy them.
He hopes his impoverished country is going to be the winner.
"We call our island group the submerged Saudi Arabia of the Philippines", he told me.
Cramped boat makes three-day trip only twice a year
After many years trying and failing to get to the Spratlys, we persuaded Mayor Jun to take us to Pagasa on a council boat he uses for twice-yearly supply runs.
It was crammed with chickens, pigs, rice, machinery, water, fuel, plants, medicine and nearly 200 passengers - a mix of council workers and island residents returning after a break on the mainland.
The boat was the size of a small ferry, meaning everyone had to sleep side by side.
A lucky few strung hammocks on the upper deck and enjoyed a slight breeze.
The rest of us crammed into the lower deck for three nights of sauna-like heat and rancid smells.
Even the communal-living Filipinos seemed as desperate to get off the boat as the personal-space obsessed Australians.
Mayor Jun is a rarity among Filipino politicians in that he's not doing the job for the money. That's just as well, because the national government gives his municipality hardly any.
Pagasa might be the Philippine's main tool to claim oil riches but it's little more than a collection of huts on dirt tracks.
There's not even a jetty, so we had to wade onto the beach carrying all our supplies.
'There's supposed to be a jetty but they never finished it,' Mayor Jun said.
It seems the money may have disappeared into the pockets of officials in Manila.
Vietnam, China, Malaysia have eyes on the prize
Explore the conflicting territorial claims in the South China Sea
Rival claimants have been keener to invest in their holdings.
Vietnam and China have built multi-storey military bases, not just on their islands but on underwater reefs.
Malaysia has even set up a luxury diving resort next to a military base on its island.
(It's the one easy way to get bragging rights to visiting a Spratly island. You can book a diving holiday online.)
China is building up a permanent maritime presence of Coast Guard ships and navy frigates to support its heavily armed bases.
Poor Pagasa has to rely on a dirt airstrip for military flights that can't even land if it rains.
Blockaded marines stuck on rusting hulk
For us, Mayor Jun's island was just a stopping point. Our main destination was a remote reef 14 hours' sailing away, called Ayungin Shoal.
It's where a group of Filipino marines on a rusting, scuttled ship called the Sierra Madre have been blockaded by Chinese maritime forces that want to seize the reef.
The Chinese are determined to stop anyone going there.
In recent months, China has been taking an increasingly hard line against "intruders" in the South China Sea.
In March, it twice blocked a Filipino marine detachment trying to reach Ayungin Shoal, and in April it tried to force back a civilian attempt to bring supplies.
Tensions boil over
There have been deadly protests in Vietnam sparked by China's decision to build an oil rig off the Paracel Islands.
On May 7 a Chinese ship rammed a Vietnamese ship in the disputed Paracel Islands, just north of the Spratlys, before installing a billion-dollar oil rig.
Vietnam erupted in anti-Chinese riots, with mobs torching suspected Chinese-owned businesses. The days of diplomatic wrangling appear to giving way to force.
After appeals from Mayor Jun, the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) gave us permission to go to Ayungin Shoal.
But they weren't prepared to take us there in a navy ship for fear of provoking the Chinese.
So, on a dark night, an hour before high tide, we left Pagasa in a small fishing boat to try to beat the Chinese blockade.
By late morning we had sighted the reef and two Chinese ships were bearing down on us.
The captain advised us to brace for water cannon.
The ships were closing fast and the reef seemed impossibly far away. I began to wonder if I should have picked an easier destination.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-20/oil-key-in-spratly-islands-dispute-south-china-sea/5463080
Army accepts 3rd batch of NPA surrenderees
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 20): Army accepts 3rd batch of NPA surrenderees
Some 97 former NPA rebels will formally surrender to Army’s 4TH Infantry “Diamond” Division through “Pagbabalik Loob III” at the Provincial Capitol, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on May 21 at around 9:00 a.m. to be hosted by Governor Adolph Edward G. Plaza.
Thirty three of them are regular members of the New People’s Army while 61 are members of the underground Barrio Revolutionary Committees and the Militia ng Bayan. 3 are from Surigao del Sur and 94 from Agusan del Sur. Of the 97, 70 are IPs mostly Manobos. Furthermore, there are two women in the group while 12 were recruited when they were still minors. They will be receiving a total of Php 881,750.00 as renumeration for the 93 assorted firearms they have surrendered to the military.
Accompanying General Emmanuel Bautista, Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines who will be the Guest of Honor and Speaker are LGen Ricardo Rainier Cruz, Commander, Eastern Mindanao Command and MGen Ricardo Visaya, Commander, 4ID.
To sum-up, in a period of seven months, the 4ID through “Pagbabalik I, II and III” have helped 204 former rebels with 201 firearms return back to the mainstream and gave a total amount of 4.2 million pesos to them apart from other support package that includes: initial cash assistance of P15,000, livelihood assistance of P50,000 coming from the OPAPP and for those who are skilled farmers, DND has allotted a one-hectare lot which they can plot with coffee seedlings.
Colonel Gregory Cayetano, Commander of the Army’s 401ST Infantry “Unity” Brigade, said that he is very much happy to welcome these former rebels who have finally decided to return to the folds of the law. "We are very thankful to them that they gave up their arms and start living a normal life back to their loved ones and families.”
MGen. Visaya is also thankful that these former rebels have left the mountains and returned to the folds of the law. "I’m sure that the biggest problems faced by our country will be resolved by means of cooperation among all stakeholders. One of the best ways to achieve genuine peace is to stop using arms. Your Armed Forces will always be a willing partner in these endeavors which will benefit the Filipino people. This is the time for peace, let us put an end to poverty and stop the war. This is the essence of 'Bayanihan,' an advocacy of working hand-in-hand,” Visaya said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1701400562984
Some 97 former NPA rebels will formally surrender to Army’s 4TH Infantry “Diamond” Division through “Pagbabalik Loob III” at the Provincial Capitol, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on May 21 at around 9:00 a.m. to be hosted by Governor Adolph Edward G. Plaza.
Thirty three of them are regular members of the New People’s Army while 61 are members of the underground Barrio Revolutionary Committees and the Militia ng Bayan. 3 are from Surigao del Sur and 94 from Agusan del Sur. Of the 97, 70 are IPs mostly Manobos. Furthermore, there are two women in the group while 12 were recruited when they were still minors. They will be receiving a total of Php 881,750.00 as renumeration for the 93 assorted firearms they have surrendered to the military.
Accompanying General Emmanuel Bautista, Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines who will be the Guest of Honor and Speaker are LGen Ricardo Rainier Cruz, Commander, Eastern Mindanao Command and MGen Ricardo Visaya, Commander, 4ID.
To sum-up, in a period of seven months, the 4ID through “Pagbabalik I, II and III” have helped 204 former rebels with 201 firearms return back to the mainstream and gave a total amount of 4.2 million pesos to them apart from other support package that includes: initial cash assistance of P15,000, livelihood assistance of P50,000 coming from the OPAPP and for those who are skilled farmers, DND has allotted a one-hectare lot which they can plot with coffee seedlings.
Colonel Gregory Cayetano, Commander of the Army’s 401ST Infantry “Unity” Brigade, said that he is very much happy to welcome these former rebels who have finally decided to return to the folds of the law. "We are very thankful to them that they gave up their arms and start living a normal life back to their loved ones and families.”
MGen. Visaya is also thankful that these former rebels have left the mountains and returned to the folds of the law. "I’m sure that the biggest problems faced by our country will be resolved by means of cooperation among all stakeholders. One of the best ways to achieve genuine peace is to stop using arms. Your Armed Forces will always be a willing partner in these endeavors which will benefit the Filipino people. This is the time for peace, let us put an end to poverty and stop the war. This is the essence of 'Bayanihan,' an advocacy of working hand-in-hand,” Visaya said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1701400562984
Basilan army, PNP undergo conflict management training
From the Zamboanga Today (May 20): Basilan army, PNP undergo conflict management training
ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Selected army troops and policemen underwent a training on conflict management and resolution skills that hopes to enhance the knowledge and skills of soldiers in peace and development work in Basilan.
Some forty seven soldiers of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, the 104th Civil Military Operation (CMO) Unit, some members of the CAFGU, and the Basilan Philippine National Police participated in the three-day training held from May 11 to 14, 2014 at camp 4SFBn, SOCOM, Philippine Army in Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City.
Miriam L. Suacito, Executive Director of the Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. said that the “Bayanihan” training-workshop was part of the Bantay Bayanihan program that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is implementing in partnership with Civil Society Organizations (CSO).
She explained that the AFP and some CSOs in Western Mindanao has formed a coalition that works on the civil military affairs whose aim is to maintain civilian military relationship and changing the mindset of the security sector from military operations to doing peace and development work.
“The Bantay Bayanihan program is still a work in progress in Basilan Province in partnership with the 104th Brigade and all units under its command and some NGOs in alliance with peace and development work, where Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. acts as its secretariat,” she said.
Suacito added that the training specifically aimed at equipping our soldiers with knowledge and skills in community organizing, in handling conflict situations, and most importantly equipping themselves with right attitude and behavior that will contribute to peace-building in the communities that they will serve.
Resource persons from the Nagdilaab Foundation and the Philippine Information Agency led participants to various activities on personhood, values clarification, role playing on conflict resolution, and community organizing, among others.
With the AFP’s direction of winning the peace, rather than winning the war, the government forces are making a drastic move that may change public perception towards the military and hopes that communities will appreciate the role of the soldiers in peace and development.
http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/top-stories/17560-basilan-army-pnp-undergo-conflict-management-training.html
ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Selected army troops and policemen underwent a training on conflict management and resolution skills that hopes to enhance the knowledge and skills of soldiers in peace and development work in Basilan.
Some forty seven soldiers of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, the 104th Civil Military Operation (CMO) Unit, some members of the CAFGU, and the Basilan Philippine National Police participated in the three-day training held from May 11 to 14, 2014 at camp 4SFBn, SOCOM, Philippine Army in Barangay Cabunbata, Isabela City.
Miriam L. Suacito, Executive Director of the Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. said that the “Bayanihan” training-workshop was part of the Bantay Bayanihan program that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is implementing in partnership with Civil Society Organizations (CSO).
She explained that the AFP and some CSOs in Western Mindanao has formed a coalition that works on the civil military affairs whose aim is to maintain civilian military relationship and changing the mindset of the security sector from military operations to doing peace and development work.
“The Bantay Bayanihan program is still a work in progress in Basilan Province in partnership with the 104th Brigade and all units under its command and some NGOs in alliance with peace and development work, where Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. acts as its secretariat,” she said.
Suacito added that the training specifically aimed at equipping our soldiers with knowledge and skills in community organizing, in handling conflict situations, and most importantly equipping themselves with right attitude and behavior that will contribute to peace-building in the communities that they will serve.
Resource persons from the Nagdilaab Foundation and the Philippine Information Agency led participants to various activities on personhood, values clarification, role playing on conflict resolution, and community organizing, among others.
With the AFP’s direction of winning the peace, rather than winning the war, the government forces are making a drastic move that may change public perception towards the military and hopes that communities will appreciate the role of the soldiers in peace and development.
http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/top-stories/17560-basilan-army-pnp-undergo-conflict-management-training.html
Balikatan culminates in 'fire and fury'
From the U.S. Army Website (May 20): Balikatan culminates in 'fire and fury'
Lightning flashed in the night sky as the Soldiers of Comanche Troop silently trekked for nine hours through mountainous jungle terrain toward their objective. From there, they attempted to engage and destroy the enemy through fire and maneuver.
About 250 Philippine and U.S. infantrymen participated in a battalion field training exercise at the end of Balikatan 2014 here, Wednesday and Thursday. Alongside Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry, were their Filipino brothers from the Philippine Army's 20th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, and other Soldiers from the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division, who had trained together for the past two weeks.
"Terrain, lack of sleep and moving through harsh terrain in low light visibility conditions were just a few of the challenges that we faced," said Spc. Alexander Soulliere, a forward observer with 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. "We also had to engage the enemy when we got there and communicating with the Filipinos was very important."
Balikatan is designed to improve cooperation and interoperability between the two nations' armed forces through both humanitarian aid and disaster relief projects, as well as combat skills training.
"Some of the more advanced tactics and techniques of the Americans were different from ours, so it was really beneficial for us to be able to compare and contrast our doctrine with them," said Philippine Army 2nd Lt. Alge Oronan, with the 20th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division. "Joint operations like these were what I liked the most about Exercise Balikatan. It was a really good opportunity for us to learn."
Philippine and U.S. Soldiers, as well as the opposing force, known as the OPFOR, which is also comprised of experienced Philippine and U.S. Soldiers, were equipped with different weapons systems such as mortars, machine guns, rifles, blank rounds and the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System equipment. The equipment functions similarly to laser tag which starts beeping loudly, indicating a soldier of OPFOR had been shot and was no longer in play.
The Soldiers were divided into either the support element, which was the group responsible for establishing a base of fire on a larger scale and suppressing the OPFOR, or the assault element, which maneuvered to finish them off.
"In a firefight, it's important to coordinate with your team to suppress the enemy before moving on them," said 1st Lt. Jordan Ritter, platoon leader, 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry. "Throughout the past few weeks, we improved our interoperability with our Philippine brothers and we did good coordinating with them to accomplish the mission."
Gunfire broke out early at dawn and continued for two hours, as both Philippine and U.S. Soldiers used communication, coordination and all the combat skills they had honed for the past couple of weeks to fight tooth and nail across rice fields and rolling hills to defeat the opposing force.
"We had to make sure everyone was focused on the objective and supporting the Filipinos," said Sgt. Justin M. Cormany, platoon sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, who has deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
"During training, there was sometimes a language barrier," Cormany said. "In our eyes we saw what we wanted to do, but we might not have been able to communicate that successfully since we didn't always have translators. But by the time we had to conduct the support by fire, everyone was working together and pushing together."
"At the end of the day, we fought our hardest and had a good time," added Cormany.
http://www.army.mil/article/126320/Balikatan_culminates_in__fire_and_fury_/
Photo Credit: Lance Cpl. Shaltiel Dominguez
Sgt. Justin M. Cormany, platoon sergeant, Comanche Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, secures the area after neutralizing enemies during a battalion field training exercise as the culminating event for Balikatan 2014, May 15, 2014, at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Philippines.
Lightning flashed in the night sky as the Soldiers of Comanche Troop silently trekked for nine hours through mountainous jungle terrain toward their objective. From there, they attempted to engage and destroy the enemy through fire and maneuver.
About 250 Philippine and U.S. infantrymen participated in a battalion field training exercise at the end of Balikatan 2014 here, Wednesday and Thursday. Alongside Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry, were their Filipino brothers from the Philippine Army's 20th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, and other Soldiers from the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division, who had trained together for the past two weeks.
"Terrain, lack of sleep and moving through harsh terrain in low light visibility conditions were just a few of the challenges that we faced," said Spc. Alexander Soulliere, a forward observer with 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. "We also had to engage the enemy when we got there and communicating with the Filipinos was very important."
Balikatan is designed to improve cooperation and interoperability between the two nations' armed forces through both humanitarian aid and disaster relief projects, as well as combat skills training.
"Some of the more advanced tactics and techniques of the Americans were different from ours, so it was really beneficial for us to be able to compare and contrast our doctrine with them," said Philippine Army 2nd Lt. Alge Oronan, with the 20th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division. "Joint operations like these were what I liked the most about Exercise Balikatan. It was a really good opportunity for us to learn."
Philippine and U.S. Soldiers, as well as the opposing force, known as the OPFOR, which is also comprised of experienced Philippine and U.S. Soldiers, were equipped with different weapons systems such as mortars, machine guns, rifles, blank rounds and the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System equipment. The equipment functions similarly to laser tag which starts beeping loudly, indicating a soldier of OPFOR had been shot and was no longer in play.
The Soldiers were divided into either the support element, which was the group responsible for establishing a base of fire on a larger scale and suppressing the OPFOR, or the assault element, which maneuvered to finish them off.
"In a firefight, it's important to coordinate with your team to suppress the enemy before moving on them," said 1st Lt. Jordan Ritter, platoon leader, 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, 3-4 Cavalry. "Throughout the past few weeks, we improved our interoperability with our Philippine brothers and we did good coordinating with them to accomplish the mission."
Gunfire broke out early at dawn and continued for two hours, as both Philippine and U.S. Soldiers used communication, coordination and all the combat skills they had honed for the past couple of weeks to fight tooth and nail across rice fields and rolling hills to defeat the opposing force.
"We had to make sure everyone was focused on the objective and supporting the Filipinos," said Sgt. Justin M. Cormany, platoon sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Comanche Troop, who has deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
"During training, there was sometimes a language barrier," Cormany said. "In our eyes we saw what we wanted to do, but we might not have been able to communicate that successfully since we didn't always have translators. But by the time we had to conduct the support by fire, everyone was working together and pushing together."
"At the end of the day, we fought our hardest and had a good time," added Cormany.
http://www.army.mil/article/126320/Balikatan_culminates_in__fire_and_fury_/
DVIDS: Army watercraft prove ability, benefit of enduring operationalized presence in Pacific
From DVIDS (May 19): Army watercraft prove ability, benefit of enduring operationalized presence in Pacific
Two Land Craft Utility (LCU) vessels crews conduct cargo operations last month in Okinawa, Japan, loading ammunition and equipment for transport to the Philippines in support of Exercise Balikatan 14, as part of the five-month Pacific Utility and Logistics Support-Watercraft proof of principle operation. The 8th Theater Sustainment Command-led operation concludes at the end of May, and was designed to demonstrate the feasibility and benefit of maintaining an enduring presence of Army watercraft in the Pacific region. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mary E. Ferguson, 8th Theater Sustainment Command Public Affairs)
One glance at a world map, and it’s quickly clear that the Pacific Theater is both huge – 9,000 miles wide and half the earth’s surface – and very blue. Its massive seas hold about 25,000 islands with the majority of its population residing close to the shore, and its natural disaster-prone geography leaves its nations constantly preparing for the unknown.
When it comes to logistics and readiness, the region’s essentially a gigantic waterworld that demands a team effort in maximizing even the most uncharacteristic capabilities of each service and organization.
Two crews of Army watercraft operators are wrapping up a five-month mission at the end of May that successfully demonstrates how operationalizing the unique Army capability in the Pacific contributes to that team effort.
With 8th Theater Sustainment Command at the lead and 10th Regional Support Group exercising operational command from its headquarters in Okinawa, the endeavor labeled Pacific Utility and Logistics Support Enabler-Watercraft (PULSE-W) began in January.
“When you look at the sheer tyranny of distance in the Pacific and the geography, you realize that you need as many routes by as many modes as possible to be able to provide the freedom of action and flexibility to support and sustain operations here,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen Lyons, the 8th TSC commander. “Army watercraft are extremely relevant in achieving that, while also providing external lines of communication into impacted areas.”
PULSE-W, while relatively simple in its concept – maintain an enduring presence of Army watercraft that cost-effectively delivers cargo throughout the Pacific – produced results reflecting immeasurable potential when it comes to supporting joint and multinational forces and decreasing watercraft response times to natural disasters in the region.
The proof of principle operation began with the activation of two Landing Craft Utility 2000s vessels from Army Prepositioned Stocks at Yokohama North Dock in Japan, manned with 16-member crews from the 97th Transportation Company, Fort Eustis, Va.
While historically operational in the Atlantic, LCUs prepositioned in the Pacific have typically only been drawn bi-annually for validation or for specific exercises in the past.
These boats provide freedom of movement to deliver tailored force packages to the point of employment, which is critical in this theater, said Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Roth, the 8th TSC’s Sea Operations lead on PULSE-W.
He said, their small size, shallow draft, and flat bottoms allow them to navigate and enter austere environments, but they can also carry 350 short tons, the equivalent of four C-17 loads, on their 2,500 square-foot-deck.
“As long as something needs to move from one place to another, we’re a viable asset,” said Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Carman, the first mate of one of the PULSE-W boats, LCU 2035, U.S. Army Vessel Port Hudson. “You’re not going to move what we can move on any aircraft, so if you’re trying to move something of any significant weight or size, watercraft is automatically irreplaceable out here.”
Once activated, the two PUSLE-W LCUs immediately began demonstrating their relevancy as they worked with sister services and logistic enterprise partners.
They sailed to White Beach, Okinawa, which serves as their forward-operating port, to pick up and transport Marine and Army equipment and ammunition to Thailand in support of Cobra Gold 14, the largest multi-national exercise in the region. They then traveled to Chinhae, Korea, to complete five roundtrips transporting obsolete ammunition to Hiro, Japan. Finally returning to Busan, Korea, they supported III Marine Expeditionary Force by moving redeployment cargo back to White Beach. They again loaded ammunition and equipment, this time to support Balikatan 14, and departed for the Philippines, where they ultimately retrieved and transported return cargo to White Beach following the exercise.
Using the LCUs versus commercial surface lift resulted in more than $7 million worth of cost avoidance to the Department of Defense, and proved that the small, self-sufficient crews and watercraft could maintain the tempo.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Daniel Mccarthy, the vessel master of LCU 2035, said, “These are utility vessels, so their designed to handle a lot, but there’s so much that may go unseen when it comes to keeping them going. Even when we’re not underway, the crew’s constantly doing the checks and maintenance on hundreds of systems, and always learning about every area of the boat. We’re self-sufficient and we adapt.”
Carman agreed and said, “PULSE-W has done exactly what it was designed to do. It’s been a great opportunity for the Army watercraft community to show what we are capable of. We’re really just transporters using boats. If we’ve got an open deck, and there’s cargo that needs to be moved, we’re going to get it done.”
He said it’s also served as a training experience for the crew. The familiarity they gained from traveling the Pacific seas and exchanging port operations and vessel knowledge with Japanese Self Defense Forces and the Philippine navy also increased the region’s overall preparedness for future natural disasters.
With the proof of principle concluding, the 8th TSC’s sea mobility team is now scheduling future cargo transports and support efforts with partners throughout the region, and relief LCU crews from Fort Eustis are projected to arrive in Okinawa sometime next month for the operations sequel, PULSE-W II.
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/130351/army-watercraft-prove-ability-benefit-enduring-operationalized-presence-pacific#.U3wMCMZOWAI
Two Land Craft Utility (LCU) vessels crews conduct cargo operations last month in Okinawa, Japan, loading ammunition and equipment for transport to the Philippines in support of Exercise Balikatan 14, as part of the five-month Pacific Utility and Logistics Support-Watercraft proof of principle operation. The 8th Theater Sustainment Command-led operation concludes at the end of May, and was designed to demonstrate the feasibility and benefit of maintaining an enduring presence of Army watercraft in the Pacific region. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mary E. Ferguson, 8th Theater Sustainment Command Public Affairs)
One glance at a world map, and it’s quickly clear that the Pacific Theater is both huge – 9,000 miles wide and half the earth’s surface – and very blue. Its massive seas hold about 25,000 islands with the majority of its population residing close to the shore, and its natural disaster-prone geography leaves its nations constantly preparing for the unknown.
When it comes to logistics and readiness, the region’s essentially a gigantic waterworld that demands a team effort in maximizing even the most uncharacteristic capabilities of each service and organization.
Two crews of Army watercraft operators are wrapping up a five-month mission at the end of May that successfully demonstrates how operationalizing the unique Army capability in the Pacific contributes to that team effort.
With 8th Theater Sustainment Command at the lead and 10th Regional Support Group exercising operational command from its headquarters in Okinawa, the endeavor labeled Pacific Utility and Logistics Support Enabler-Watercraft (PULSE-W) began in January.
“When you look at the sheer tyranny of distance in the Pacific and the geography, you realize that you need as many routes by as many modes as possible to be able to provide the freedom of action and flexibility to support and sustain operations here,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen Lyons, the 8th TSC commander. “Army watercraft are extremely relevant in achieving that, while also providing external lines of communication into impacted areas.”
PULSE-W, while relatively simple in its concept – maintain an enduring presence of Army watercraft that cost-effectively delivers cargo throughout the Pacific – produced results reflecting immeasurable potential when it comes to supporting joint and multinational forces and decreasing watercraft response times to natural disasters in the region.
The proof of principle operation began with the activation of two Landing Craft Utility 2000s vessels from Army Prepositioned Stocks at Yokohama North Dock in Japan, manned with 16-member crews from the 97th Transportation Company, Fort Eustis, Va.
While historically operational in the Atlantic, LCUs prepositioned in the Pacific have typically only been drawn bi-annually for validation or for specific exercises in the past.
These boats provide freedom of movement to deliver tailored force packages to the point of employment, which is critical in this theater, said Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Roth, the 8th TSC’s Sea Operations lead on PULSE-W.
He said, their small size, shallow draft, and flat bottoms allow them to navigate and enter austere environments, but they can also carry 350 short tons, the equivalent of four C-17 loads, on their 2,500 square-foot-deck.
“As long as something needs to move from one place to another, we’re a viable asset,” said Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Carman, the first mate of one of the PULSE-W boats, LCU 2035, U.S. Army Vessel Port Hudson. “You’re not going to move what we can move on any aircraft, so if you’re trying to move something of any significant weight or size, watercraft is automatically irreplaceable out here.”
Once activated, the two PUSLE-W LCUs immediately began demonstrating their relevancy as they worked with sister services and logistic enterprise partners.
They sailed to White Beach, Okinawa, which serves as their forward-operating port, to pick up and transport Marine and Army equipment and ammunition to Thailand in support of Cobra Gold 14, the largest multi-national exercise in the region. They then traveled to Chinhae, Korea, to complete five roundtrips transporting obsolete ammunition to Hiro, Japan. Finally returning to Busan, Korea, they supported III Marine Expeditionary Force by moving redeployment cargo back to White Beach. They again loaded ammunition and equipment, this time to support Balikatan 14, and departed for the Philippines, where they ultimately retrieved and transported return cargo to White Beach following the exercise.
Using the LCUs versus commercial surface lift resulted in more than $7 million worth of cost avoidance to the Department of Defense, and proved that the small, self-sufficient crews and watercraft could maintain the tempo.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Daniel Mccarthy, the vessel master of LCU 2035, said, “These are utility vessels, so their designed to handle a lot, but there’s so much that may go unseen when it comes to keeping them going. Even when we’re not underway, the crew’s constantly doing the checks and maintenance on hundreds of systems, and always learning about every area of the boat. We’re self-sufficient and we adapt.”
Carman agreed and said, “PULSE-W has done exactly what it was designed to do. It’s been a great opportunity for the Army watercraft community to show what we are capable of. We’re really just transporters using boats. If we’ve got an open deck, and there’s cargo that needs to be moved, we’re going to get it done.”
He said it’s also served as a training experience for the crew. The familiarity they gained from traveling the Pacific seas and exchanging port operations and vessel knowledge with Japanese Self Defense Forces and the Philippine navy also increased the region’s overall preparedness for future natural disasters.
With the proof of principle concluding, the 8th TSC’s sea mobility team is now scheduling future cargo transports and support efforts with partners throughout the region, and relief LCU crews from Fort Eustis are projected to arrive in Okinawa sometime next month for the operations sequel, PULSE-W II.
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/130351/army-watercraft-prove-ability-benefit-enduring-operationalized-presence-pacific#.U3wMCMZOWAI
Filipino hackers responsible for attacking Chinese websites will face the law –Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): Filipino hackers responsible for attacking Chinese websites will face the law –Palace
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645428
Filipino
hackers responsible for recently defacing 195 Chinese government and commercial
websites may soon be landing in hot water, Malacanang said Tuesday.
It
can be recalled that a group of Filipino hackers, “Anonymous Philippines”
reportedly claimed responsibility for the hacking on Monday.
They
were expressing rage over Chinese fishermen caught poaching near the Hasa-Hasa
Shoal (Half Moon Shoal) off Palawan in the West Philippine Sea, an area that is
also being claimed by China.
In
the defaced Chinese websites, the hackers posted: "China China
Presidential
Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. in a
Palace media briefing said that hacking was against the law and that they would
have to face the consequences of their actions.
“We
have laws on maintenance of integrity of (internet) sites, in cyberspace, and
we need to remind all concerned that such laws are being enforced in our
country, respective of views that may be held by people who are resorting to
those actions,” Coloma said.
“We
will continue to abide by our laws,” he added.
President
Benigno S. Aquino III has many times, insisted that the best way to settle the
sea dispute was through the rule of law.
Despite
China
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645428
DILG chief commends North Cotabato police vs NPA attack
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): DILG chief commends North Cotabato police vs NPA attack
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645326
Department
of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Manuel Roxas II commended the
Philippine National Police (PNP) in President Roxas Municipal in North Cotabato after preventing members of New People’s
Army (NPA) to attack NorCot police station Tuesday morning.
Roxas
said the incident proves the capacity of the PNP in carrying out their order to
ensure peace and security in the country.
“The
communist rebels may have thought they could easily take over the police
station. Clearly, they underestimated the readiness and dedication to duty of
the outnumbered government forces,” he said
The
DILG chief said he expects all PNP units all over the country to maintain such
standard.
”This
incident demonstrates the firm resolve of the men and women of the PNP to carry
out their mandate of ensuring peace and security in our communities, whatever
the odds. I expect PNP units all over the country to maintain such standard,”
he said.
He
also prays for the fast recovery of Senior Inspector Bernabe Rubio, the town’s
police chief, who sustained a gunshot wound and is now in the hospital for
medical treatment.
The
DILG secretary said the PNP is committed in pursuing the path of peace and
development as a means to address the root causes of insurgency in line with
the keenness of the government to defend the people’s communities from armed
aggression.
He
added that they are exploring all avenues available to fulfill the Filipino’s
aspirations for just and lasting peace.
”While
this government is ready to defend the people’s communities from armed
aggression, it is also committed to pursue the path of peace and development as
a means to address the root causes of insurgency. We are also exploring all
avenues available to fulfill the Filipinos’ aspirations for just and lasting
peace,” Roxas explained.
Meanwhile,
Senior Inspector Jojet Nicolas, provincial police spokesman for North Cotabato , said there were only 14 policemen,
including town police chief, when the station was attacked.
A
ranking New People's Army (NPA) leader and two of his followers were killed
while another rebel was injured as the NorCot police addresses the attack.
One
of the slain rebels was identified as commander Revo, leader of the provincial
NPA unit Front Committee 53's "Sentro de Grabidad" or elite guard, as
confirmed by Central Mindanao Regional Policeman Senior Inspector Aldrin
Gonzales.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645326
97 former rebels surrendering to 4th Infantry Division
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): 97 former rebels surrendering to 4th Infantry Division
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645412
Ninety-seven
former New People's Army (NPA) fighters will formally surrender to the 4th
Infantry Division on Wednesday.
The
event, which is under the unit's “Pagbabalik Loob III” will be held at the
grounds of the Provincial Capitol, in Prosperidad, Agusan Del Sur on Wednesday
morning.
The
event will be hosted by Governor
Adolph Edward
G. Plaza
Lt.
Col. Jose Leonard Gille, 4th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the
surrenderees consists of 33 regular members of the NPA while 64 are members of
the underground "Barrio Revolutionary Committees" and the
"Militia ng Bayan".
The
former rebels will be receiving a total of P881,750 as renumeration for the 93
assorted firearms they have surrendered to the military.
Gille
said Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel T.
Bautista will be Wednesday's guest of honor and speaker.
Also
expected in attendance are Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Ricardo
Rainier Cruz III and 4th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Ricardo Visaya.
In
a period of seven months, the 4th Infantry Division through “Pagbabalik I, II
and III” have helped 204 former rebels with 201 firearms return back to the
mainstream and gave a total amount of P4.2 million to them apart from other
support package that includes: initial cash assistance of ₱15,000, livelihood
assistance of ₱50,000 coming from the Office of the President Adviser on the
Peace Process (OPAPP) and for those who are skilled farmers, the Department of
National Defense has allotted a one-hectare lot which they can plant coffee
seedlings.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=645412
ASEAN defense ministers adopt three-year work program
From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): ASEAN defense ministers adopt three-year work program
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=645452
Defense
ministers from members states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN) adopted a three-year work program for 2014-16 here on Tuesday.
The
ministers agreed to a concept paper for establishing a direct communications
link and additional protocol at the 8th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting, under
the theme of "defense cooperation towards peaceful and prosperous ASEAN
community."
Myanmar
Defense Minister Lieutenant-General Wai Lwin, who is the chair, said that
facing the challenges in the road to an ASEAN Community in 2015, it is
imperative to maintain peaceful and stable environment for the continued
progress and prosperity in the region.
The
ASEAN defense ministers also signed a joint declaration on defense cooperation
towards peaceful and prosperous ASEAN community, reaffirming the regional
bloc's commitment to consolidate defense cooperation for the realization of the
ASEAN Community.
The
gathering was followed by an informal meeting between defense ministers of
ASEAN and China
Founded
in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei ,
Cambodia , Indonesia , Laos ,
Malaysia , Myanmar , the Philippines ,
Singapore , Thailand and Vietnam
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=645452
'If China can break off Vietnam, they've won South China Sea'
From Rappler (May 20): 'If China can break off Vietnam, they've won South China Sea'
The South China Sea shows maritime conflict may not necessarily lead to war but a careful interplay of soft power and hard power, writes Robert Kaplan in his book, Asia's Cauldron
ASIA 'S CAULDRON. Geopolitical analyst Robert Kaplan writes
about the South China Sea .
Geopolitical analyst Robert Kaplan begins his book on the South China Sea vividly describing the ruins ofChampa Kingdom in central Vietnam ,
showcasing India 's pervasive
legacy in a country with territories that were previously a part of China
Vietnam is no match to China Vietnam
Vietnam China China
has never left Vietnam
Vietnam also used to a colony of France
Vietnam and the US
Vietnam is also refurbishing Cam Ranh Bay, a deep-water
anchorage that served as a "major base of operations for the US US
military presence "to counter China
http://www.rappler.com/news/58414-vietnam-china-sea
The South China Sea shows maritime conflict may not necessarily lead to war but a careful interplay of soft power and hard power, writes Robert Kaplan in his book, Asia's Cauldron
Geopolitical analyst Robert Kaplan begins his book on the South China Sea vividly describing the ruins of
It's a reminder,
Kaplan wrote, of how powers and civilizations rise and fall. He gives the long
view as the region concerns itself with containing China
that is aggressively claiming almost the entire South
China Sea .
"The shadow
of China presently looms large, but if at some point very soon China
dramatically falters, the South China Sea may once again live up to its French
colonial description of Indochina, where China competes on an equal – rather
than dominant – footing with India and other powers and civilizations," he
wrote.
The Philippines filed a case against China before arbitral tribunal at the
Permanent Court of Arbitration. It is counting on the United Nations (UN) body
to peacefully resolve maritime conflicts by telling China
But Kaplan is not
setting his eyes on the ITLOS to stop China Vietnam
"It's all up
to Vietnam
"If China can break off Vietnam
they've won the South China Sea," Kaplan wrote quoting an unnamed US
Kaplan explained:
"Malaysia is lying low, Brunei has solved its problem with China,
Indonesia has no well-defined foreign policy on the subject, the Philippines
has few cards to play despite that country's ingenious boisterousness and
incendiary statements, Singapore is capable but lacks size."
Kaplan is the
chief geopolitical analyst for private global intelligence firm Stratfor and a
foreign correspondent for The Atlantic. Published in February 2014,
the book captures the recent developments in the region. It is available on
Amazon.com.
PH a
'near-failed state'
The Philippines and Vietnam
dominate the two edges of the South China Sea .
Between them are the islands of Spratlys, some of them within the Philippines
"Make no
mistake, the Philippines is
crucial: it dominates the eastern edge of the South China Sea as much as Vietnam does the western edge and China Vietnam
But he looks at
the Philippines
"The
Scarborough Shoal affair made it obvious to the Filipinos – if it wasn't
obvious by then – that they needed a substantial military alliance with the US ," Kaplan wrote, referring to the 2012
standoff that Manila lost to Beijing
But even the US
The Philippine
Navy instead got the decommissioned 1960s US Coast Guard cutters, currently its
most capable ships. (READ: PH Navy asking for 3rd warship from US)
The arbitration
case of the Philippines
Battle-hardened
Vietnam
Tension between China and Vietnam
countries turns scarily dangerous following China 's
provactive move to deploy an oil rig near disputed Paracel Islands
On land,
Vietnamese have launched deadly anti-China riots prompting China
to evacuate more than 3,000 of its citizens out of Vietnam
And there was the
unsuccessful US involvement
in the Vietnam War to prevent a communist take over of South Vietnam
In a good way,
maritime disputes are fought very differently from land disputes that saw the
violent clash of militaries, Kaplan wrote. The South China
Sea shows maritime conflict may not necessarily lead to war but a
careful interplay of soft power and hard power.
Like many ASEAN
countries, Vietnam is
counting on the US to
counter China
"US presence is needed for a free maritime
climate in the South China Sea ," Ngo
Quang Xuan, the foreign affairs commitee vice chairman, was quoted in the book
as saying.
At the same time,
history taught the Vietnamese not to be entirely dependent on another country.
"Because of the failure of the Soviet Union to help Vietnam
A year after Vietnam invaded Cambodia
to oust the pro-Beijing Pol Pot regime, China Vietnam was
counting on its ally, the Soviet Union , to
come to its rescue but was disappointed.
Kaplan also wrote
about the fear of some Vietnamese that the US
"There is
the fear of the US selling Vietnam for the sake of a warmer relationships
with China China
in the late '70s provided the "geostrategic context for China 's invasion of Vietnam
Kaplan curiously
ends his book describing the slums of Borneo, a portion of the South China Sea
where China
"Borneo was
indeed a throwback: a place that, like Champa in Vietnam, challenged my
theories about the present – about how China was the principal reality; and
about how it was all about warship, oil tankers, and modernizing
autocrats," Kaplan wrote.
He raised more
questions. What if China
All these can
change the situation in the region, Kaplan said. "Don't think of the
region as necessarily going in one direction, in other words."
http://www.rappler.com/news/58414-vietnam-china-sea
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