Police foil ‘agaw-armas’ by suspected NPA rebel

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 4): Police foil ‘agaw-armas’ by suspected NPA rebel

Philippine National Police personnel in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, foiled an attempt by an alleged member of the rebel New People’s Army to grab the high-powered service firearm of a policeman deployed at a public cemetery at about 12:20 p.m. Sunday.

The incident happened as people were flocking to the cemeteries for the celebrations of All Saints Day and All Souls Day on Saturday and Sunday.

The suspect was identified as Jeffrey Gonzaga, 27, single and a resident of Sitio Kantayson, Barangay Maniak in Guihulngan City.

Initial investigation showed that Gonzaga approached PO1 Jose Gabriel Cubo Villegas and wrested from him his issued M-16 armalite rifle.

However, Gonzaga failed because Villegas held on tightly to it and this resulted in a scuffle.

Three other policemen also detailed at the Hilaitan cemetery came to the rescue of Villegas and arrested the suspect, Sr. Insp. Rogelio Pacificar, OIC police chief of Guihulngan, said.

The policemen recovered from Gonzaga a grenade and a long bolo.

Gonzaga, who had the letters “BHB” tattooed on his left hand, admitted to be a member of the NPA out on a mission with some companions to conduct “agaw armas” at the height of the holidays, Pacificar said.

Sr. Supt. Natuel said BHB stands for Bagong Hukbong Bayan of the NPA.

 Pacificar said Gonzaga admitted in a police investigation that he and his companions had plotted since Thursday to grab firearms from policemen deployed at the cemeteries.

Gonzaga also said further that he was told by his superiors that if he succeeded, the firearm seized will be issued to him, Pacificar added.

Gonzaga was presented at the Regional Trial Court Branch 64 in Guihulngan City on Monday for inquest after the police filed a complaint against him for illegal possession of an explosive under Republic Act 9516 and for illegal possession of a deadly weapon under Batas Pambansa Blg. 6.

Meanwhile, Sr. Supt. Natuel directed Sr. Insp. Pacificar to submit a full report on the incident to determine whether Villegas was liable for negligence or similar offense, for the attempt of the suspect to seize his firearm.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/November/04/negor2.htm

MILF chief meets with members to discuss political party structure

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 3): MILF chief meets with members to discuss political party structure



Ahud (aka Murad) Ebrahim. FILE PHOTO/MALACANANG PHOTO BUREAU
“We already completed our higher and middle structures. Now we will focus into membership,” MILF chair Murad Ebrahim told the Philippine Daily Inquirer in an interview Sunday.

“Once we finalize it, we will register with the Commission on Elections and then the massive organization in the ground starts,” he added.

The central committee named its new party United Bangsamoro Justice Party and declared that it would participate in the future regional and local elections.

He said they have created a special committee tasked to lay the foundation of the political party.

“Our plan is for the MILF organization to continue as a non-government organization to focus more on assisting in social economic programs, alongside with the government. The MILF will not join the politics as an organization but we will field candidates to run for office,” he explained.

Ebrahim said their political party would be open to all, including non-MILF members.

He added they have formulated mechanisms to keep unscrupulous politicians out of the party.

The draft Bangsamoro Basic Law, or the law that will provide for the establishment of a Bangsamoro autonomous government, will still have to be passed and ratified by Congress, before it will be submitted to the people in a plebiscite.

Presidential Peace Adviser Teresita Delez earlier said in an interview in Davao City that both panels would like to complete the decommissioning of MILF forces before the 2016 elections to allow the group to participate in the elections.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/648583/milf-chief-meets-with-members-to-discuss-political-party-structure

PH soldiers from Liberia to be quarantined on island, not Tarlac

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 3): PH soldiers from Liberia to be quarantined on island, not Tarlac
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said Monday the 112 Filipino United Nations peacekeepers scheduled to be pulled out from Ebola-stricken Liberia will get a “well-deserved vacation in an island paradise” when they arrive in the country on Nov. 10 and 14.

This 21-day holiday developed after Catapang canceled on Monday a plan to quarantine them at the base of the Philippine Peacekeeping Operations Center (PKOC) in Capas town in Tarlac province.

“There is nothing to worry about. We are not continuing the plan. While Ebola is not airborne, we do not want to unnecessarily burden the people of Tarlac,”Catapang said when sought for comment on separate resolutions passed by the Tarlac provincial board and the province’s mayors opposing the plan.

He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines was still looking for an island where the soldiers could be isolated from the rest of the population while they are quarantined.

In opposing the use of Capas as a quarantine area, the provincial board and the mayors cited the safety of their constituents, Gov. Victor Yap told the Inquirer in a telephone interview on Monday.

The board and the mayors issued the resolutions a week before the peacekeepers are arrive in the Philippines. President Aquino had ordered their pullout from the West African country due to the outbreak of Ebola.

Aside from the PKOC, the military camp in Capas also hosts the Mechanized Infantry Division and the Training and Doctrine Command.

Told of the AFP decision, Yap said: “I am grateful that the national leadership has reconsidered setting up a quarantine system for Ebola here in Tarlac. I am sure they now have a more viable and secure area.”

The AFP, Yap said, has not presented any plan in the event one of the returning soldiers is proven to be ill with the Ebola virus. The provincial government has yet to begin a full-scale education campaign on Ebola.

“We’d like to know if it is going to be an AFP policy to be using Capas as quarantine site in future cases,” Yap said.

Rene Romero, head of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Northern Luzon, said the business sector in the provinces of Tarlac and Pampanga is alarmed about choice of Capas as quarantine area.

“It can give a big negative impact on business and tourism. We would like to appeal to the AFP to bring the… peacekeepers to another area where it is isolated and safe. We have 7,100 islands, perhaps they quarantine them in one of our islands with no or low population,” Romero said.

It was not known if the returning troops are entering the Philippines via the Clark International Airport in Pampanga on a chartered flight.

Capas Mayor Antonio Rodriguez confirmed he received an advice from the President about the use of Capas as a quarantine area. Tarlac is Mr. Aquino’s home province.

The World Health Organization said new Ebola infections have been slowing in Liberia but warned that the crisis was far from over.

According to WHO, the majority of the 4,922 deaths were in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/648632/ph-soldiers-from-liberia-to-be-quarantined-on-island-not-tarlac

Indonesian general helpful to PH gets top award

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 4): Indonesian general helpful to PH gets top award

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday awarded the visiting military chief of Indonesia with the Philippine Legion of Honor for his contribution to the victims of Super Typhoon “Yolanda” and for his role in the peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang conferred the award with the Degree of Commander on General Moeldoko, the 15th commander in chief of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, “for exceptionally meritorious outstanding service.”

“We express our deepest gratitude for your generosity and assistance during Yolanda. Thank you for the commitment and sincerity to help the Filipinos in times of need,” Catapang said in a statement.

The Philippine Legion of Honor is awarded to Filipino citizens and foreign nationals for meritorious service in the military or for exceptional performance of their duties. It is the highest award the President can bestow without congressional approval.

At the height of Yolanda, Moeldoko directed three Indonesian Hercules C-130 aircraft to transport relief items from the Indonesian government.

He was also cited for supporting the international monitoring team during the signing of the Bangsamoro comprehensive agreement between the government and the MILF in March 2014.

In response, Moeldoko expressed optimism the cooperation between the AFP and the Tentara Nasional Indonesia, or the Indonesian military, would continue.

Former Indonesian military chief, retired Adm. Agus Suhartono, was given the same award last year for his strong commitment to deepening military cooperation between the two countries.http://globalnation.inquirer.net/113876/indonesian-general-helpful-to-ph-gets-top-award/?PageSpeed=noscript

AFP: Soldiers slain by ASG in a bad position

From the Philippine Star (Nov 3): AFP: Soldiers slain by ASG in a bad position

A senior military official said the six troopers, including a junior officer who were killed Sunday in Basilan were on the "disadvantage" position when they were ambushed by the Abu Sayyaf group.

Rear Admiral Reynaldo Yoma, chief Task Group Zambasulta, said the team led by 2nd Lt. Jun Corpuz were on security patrol when they came under attack by 20 Abu Sayyaf militants about 7:30 a.m. Sunday at Sitio Monpol, Barangay Libug, Sumisop town.
Corpuz and five of his men were killed while three other troopers were injured as firefight ensued.

"The troops were on security patrol at medyo nasa disadvantage position sila when they were attacked by bandits," Yoma said at the sidelines of the arrival funeral honor given to the six soldiers inside the naval base this city.

The slain soldiers, including 2nd Lt. Corpuz, were Sgt. Tranquilino Germo, Pfc. Rolando Enters, Freddie Pandoy, Raffy Canuto and Mark Anthony Singson, all members of 64th Infantry Battalion.

He said there were no intelligence lapses as the troops were aware and have been briefed of the security condition in the area.

Yoma said pursuit operations continued as the military is deploying an additional battalion of marines in Basilan to help the present number of troops against the Abu Sayyaf group.

Yoma declined to comment on reports that the Abu Sayyaf group also managed to cart away the high powered firearms, including a light machine gun, from the slain soldiers.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/11/03/1387605/afp-soldiers-slain-asg-bad-position

(UPDATE) 3 soldiers killed, 2 hurt in clashes with rebels in Mindanao

From the Philippine Star (Nov 3):

Three soldiers were killed and two others injured in separate clashes with the rebel group New People 's Army (NPA) in southern Philippines yesterday, military officials said today.

Ferdinand Tutanes, civil military operations officer of the Philippine Army's 30th Infantry Battalion, said a soldier died when government troops clashed with 30 NPA guerrillas in Payapag village, Bacuag town in Surigao del Sur province on Sunday morning.

Tutanes said the soldiers were in the area to check on reports that the NPA guerrillas were conducting extortion activities there when they engaged them in a 30-minute firefight.

The soldiers then pursued the rebels and re-engaged them at the same village on Sunday afternoon. The fighting resulted in the death of another soldier and the wounding of two others.

"There were also casualties on the side of the rebel group as evidenced by the heavy bloodstains along their routes of withdrawal," said Tutanes.

In another development, a soldier was also killed in a 35-minute firefight with NPA guerrillas in Consuelo village, Bunanawan town in Agusan del Sur province on Sunday morning.

Capt. Librado Olunan Jr., civil military officer of the Philippine Army's 75th Infantry Battalion, said government troops were conducting security operation in the area after receiving reports that the rebels were planning to harass commercial establishments in the area.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/03/1387659/update-3-soldiers-killed-2-hurt-clashes-rebels-mindanao

MILF to form political party for national election

From the Philippine Star (Nov 3): MILF to form political party for national election

The head of the Philippines' largest Muslim rebel group, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), will meet his commanders, leaders and supporters today here to finalize the organization structure of its political party for the country's 2016 national elections.

"We already completed our higher and middle structures. Now we will focus on membership," MILF chairman Ibrahim Murad said in an interview at MILF's stronghold Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao province in southern Philippines.

"Once we finalize it, we will register in the Commission on Elections and then the massive organization in the ground," he added.

The new party was named United Bangsamoro Justice Party and the MILF declared that it would participate in the future regional and local elections.

Murad said they have created a special committee tasked to lay the foundation of the political party.

"Our plan is for the MILF organization to continue as a non- government organization to focus more assisting in the social economic program along with the government.

The MILF will not join the politics as organization but we will field candidates to run for office," he explained.

Murad said their political party is open to all, including those who are not members of their organization.

On the issue of Bangsamoro Basic Law, Murad said, if congress will pass the BBL by the end of the year, a plebiscite will be conducted between January to March next year.

"We are hoping and in touch with the people in congress and senate. So far, there are no major obstacles," Murad said.

"In the ongoing pubic consultations, we notice most of the questions were more of the operation side of the BBL because lack of information. But for the general principles, there has been no questions," the MILF leader added.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/03/1387888/milf-form-political-party-national-election

Dying young: Fresh PMA grad now a hero

From the Manila Times (Nov 3): Dying young: Fresh PMA grad now a hero

He died young, but he died a hero.

Second Lieutenant Jun Galima Corpuz may not have earned a Scout Ranger’s badge but he earned far more than that when he died fighting Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) rebels—the respect and admiration of fellow soldiers and the country’s gratitude.

Corpuz, 22, was one of the soldiers killed during fierce clashes with ASG bandits in Sumisip town in Basilan province on Sunday.

The government troops were patrolling the village when they engaged about 20 militants, sparking a running gunbattle.

Also slain were Sgt. Tranquilino Germo, Jr., Private First Class Roland Entera Jr., Private First Class Freddie Pandoy, Private First Class Raffy Canuto and Private First Class Mark Anthony Singson.

Marine Capt. Maria Rowena Muyuela, a spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command, on Monday said the slain soldiers were part of a team guarding a road project in the town.

Corpuz, who graduated in March this year from the Philippine Military Academy, was the fourth child among the seven children of Cresencio and Elizabeth, both 49.

Philippine military spokesman Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said Corpuz, a brilliant mathematician since his college days, excelled and graduated number 13 in his class at Don Mariano Marcos State University in Bacnotan town in La Union province.

Corpuz was a second year engineering student when he decided to enter the academy in April 2010.

“As a PMA cadet, Corpuz dreamed of becoming a Scout Ranger and yearned to live a life that is full of danger,” Cabunoc wrote in his blog.

He said the young lieutenant was motivated by the combat stories shared by his maternal uncle, Master Sergeant Jaime Galima, a battle-hardened Scout Ranger who regularly visited his home when he was still a young boy.

“He died fighting to save his wounded comrades whom he considered as his brothers. Tears flowed as they carried all of the six fatalities back to their detachment,” Cabunoc said.

“He told me that he would like to earn the tabak (Scout Ranger qualification badge) one day. He really wanted to become a war hero and a warrior like Uncle Jaime,” said Emmanuel, 23, Jun’s elder brother.

Sergeant Marvin Paragoso, 33, one of the two survivors who fought with Corpuz, described the slain officer as a very good leader who can easily mingle with the troops.

“He was a very caring person who readily listened and helped solve our problems. He always found time to interact with us during our leisure time,” Paragoso said.

He added that they were on routine security patrol when they saw a high ground that could be used by bandits as a staging ground for their attacks. Corpuz decided to clear the bushy part of the hill.

“While climbing the hill, we saw a man who hurriedly left the crest. All of a sudden our leading elements were heavily engaged in an intense firefight, hitting some of them.

Positioned a few meters from the leading elements, Lt. Corpuz commanded us to provide supporting fire to save them. We fought hard but we were overwhelmed by their number,” Paragoso narrated.

Sensing that they will be encircled, Paragoso convinced Corpuz to jump into a ravine and find a covered position as he radioed for reinforcements.

“I saw Lt. Corpuz firing his gun at our attackers while I leaped toward a defilade to escape the high-explosive rounds that rained on us. I was hit and bleeding so I crawled toward safety,” he said.

When other soldiers arrived after about half an hour, they found the lifeless body of Corpuz.

“I will never forget a compassionate leader like him. True to his word, he left no one behind,” said Paragoso, a native of Cotabato.

On Monday, the flag-draped coffins of the slain soldiers were paraded inside the Western Mindanao Command headquarters in Zamboanga City and mourned by their colleagues.

http://www.manilatimes.net/dying-young-fresh-pma-grad-now-hero/139024/

Uproar over ambush of MILF commander

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 3): Uproar over ambush of MILF commander

The Suara Bangsamoro, a group of militant Muslims, has urged authorities to conduct a deeper probe into the recent ambush of a top senior official of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and a Maguindanao barangay councilor in Sultan Kudarat.

Jerome Aba, spokesman for Suara Bangsamoro, said the killing of Manubakan Abdul, also known as MILF Commander Garrison of the 108th Base Command, and a relative identified as Abdulkarim Maslamama, councilor of Barangay Midkunding in General SK Pendatun, Maguindanao happened at a time the House of Representatives was conducting public consultations on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in several areas in Mindanao.

“This is proof the government is not serious in its peace efforts in Mindanao,” Aba alleged.

Earlier, an Army official in Central Mindanao hinted the killing of Commander Garrison and Maslamama was due to a personal grudge.

The victims, on board a motorcycle, were on their way to General SK Pendatun last Oct 29 when they were flagged down by still unidentified suspects and shot them. Both died on the spot.

Aba said they will submit anytime this week their appeal for an in-depth investigation of the ambush to the Joint MILF-GPH Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH).

“Kilala namin si MILF Commander Garrison.   Akala niya ay may peace na sa Mindanao kaya nakakagala na siya (We know who MILF Commander Garrison is.  He thought there is already peace in Mindanao so he’s roaming freely here),” said Aba.

http://www.mb.com.ph/uproar-over-ambush-of-milf-commander/

Iranun tribe sees recognition in new Bangsamoro entity

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 3): Iranun tribe sees recognition in new Bangsamoro entity

Ethnic Muslim Filipinos belonging to the Iranun tribe mainly in Maguindanao and partly in Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato are hopeful of finally gaining their own identity in the Philippine socio-political setting through the creation of the proposed Bangsamoro region in Mindanao.

Mayors of Parang, Buldon, Barira and Matanog in Maguindanao said they are confident Congress will consider adopting a provision in the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) bill that seeks to lower population requirement for a district from the national standard of 250,000 to 150,000, as proposed in the measure.

Officials of the four Iranun towns, through Parang Mayor Ibrahim Ibay Jr., furnished government peace panel chairperson Miriam Coronel-Freer a copy of their petition for the creation a separate Congressional district for them, during a public forum hosted here by the Maguindanao provincial government recently.

“We long for a separate district for us to gain representation to the national body politics,” Ibray told the    ManilaBulletin in an interview.

Ibay, former speaker of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) legislature, said their tribe has been living in a quandary over its socio-political identity in the region.

He said majority Maguindanaons associate Iranuns with Maranaos of Lanao provinces because of the similarity in their dialect, culture and traditions. But the Lanao people consider them Maguindanaons due to their geo-political association with Maguindanao.

There are also minority Iranuns in Kapatagan, Balabagan and Malabang towns in Lanao del Sur and in the town of Alamada in North Cotabato who are not properly represented in higher levels of government, Ibay said.

Surprisingly, a politician of full Iranun descent, Datuk Seri Utama Pandikar Amin bin Haji Mulia, was even able to flourish in Malaysian politics where he is currently the incumbent speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, the lower house of the Parliament of Malaysia. He was previously a Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department.

Mulia, in his recent visit in Cotabato City, had proudly said that he was an Iranun but expressed disappointment with the contrasting political landscapes in Malaysia and the Philippines.

Ibay, who had served the defunct Shariff Kabunsuan province as acting governor, said the establishment of the Bangsamoro political entity in pursuit of the government peace deals with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will be a potential answer to their age-old quest.

The BBL, which is pending in Congress, will put in place new entity to replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). It also seeks to lower the population requirement for Congressional zoning from 250,000 to 150,000 for the proposed Bangsamoro parliamentary.

At the recent public forum here on the BBL and anti-criminality planning for Maguindanao, Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu endorsed the petition of  Iranun for a separate district.

http://www.mb.com.ph/iranun-tribe-sees-recognition-in-new-bangsamoro-entity/

‘Zones of Peace’ identified in North Cotabato

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 3): ‘Zones of Peace’ identified in North Cotabato



Kidapawan City – After 24 years, four former conflict areas in Tulunan town in North Cotabato were finally declared Zones of Peace through an ordinance which was recently approved by the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of Tulunan.

Max Casulukan, coordinator of the Tulunan Municipal Peace Zones Development Council, said that under the ordinance, no armed groups are to be allowed at the Bituan Zone of Life, Nabundasan Zone of Life, and Sitio Miatub Zone of Life, all in Barangay Tuburan; and Sitio New Alimodian Zone of Life in Barangay Banayal.

These areas were declared Zones of Peace in February 1990 through a resolution and urged all “armed actors,” including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, New Peoples’ Army (NPA), and local militias, to respect the “policy instrument.”

“This has been our dream.  That these former war zones would finally be declared ‘zones of life and peace’ through a local legislation,” said Casulukan.

On Tuesday, Casulukan and his group would lead a peace dialogue in Tulunan where they would discuss the provisions of the ordinance.

Casulukan said they have already invited members of the Barangay Zones of Peace Development Council from Barangays Banayal and Tuburan; representatives from the Army’s 9th Infantry Battalion, Sangguniang Bayan and the local chief executive.

Under the ordinance, “armed actors” that violate the ordinance could be sanctioned, he explained.

http://www.mb.com.ph/zones-of-peace-identified-in-north-cotabato/

United stance by ASEAN on territorial disputes in leaked draft statement

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 3): United stance by ASEAN on territorial disputes in leaked draft statement

The leaked contents of a draft statement supposed to be delivered by the chair at the 25th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit to be held in Myanmar’s administrative capital Naypyidaw on November 12, presents a more united ASEAN determined to push for the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea.

Four ASEAN member states — the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei — are involved in separate maritime disputes with an increasingly assertive China.

Based on the alleged draft statement, the ASEAN leaders are to express concern over recent developments in the South China Sea and reaffirm the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining peace and stability.

“We expressed our concerns over recent developments in the South China Sea, which have increased tensions in the area,” the statement reads. “We reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining peace and stability, promoting maritime security and safety, and the freedom of navigation, including in and over-flight above the South China Sea.”

Further, the draft says the ASEAN leaders urge all parties involved in the disputes to exercise self-restraint, settle the issue through peaceful means and in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The leaders also highlight the importance of maintaining the momentum of negotiations and in achieving early a COC.

http://www.mb.com.ph/united-stance-by-asean-on-territorial-disputes-in-leaked-draft-statement/

PNoy tells AFP to end ASG operations as Hataman seeks all-out war over death of 6 soldiers

From InterAksyon (Nov 3): PNoy tells AFP to end ASG operations as Hataman seeks all-out war over death of 6 soldiers

President Benigno Aquino III has reiterated his instructions to the military to end the operations of the Abu Sayyaf Group after six soldiers, including a young officer, were killed in a recent ambush in Basilan.

"Our instruction as of now is that there will be no let-up in operations until we finish the ASG - meaning we arrest and bring to court the members of the Abu Sayyaf," Aquino said in an interview in Laguna aired over state-run Radyo ng Bayan on Monday.

Earlier on Monday, ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman condemned the killings, and sought an all-out military offensive against the bandits.

The chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said it is time to use the iron hand in dealing with the group because its members have victimized so many.

Hataman immediately went to the island where the killing of the soldiers happened and expressed sadness over the death of the soldiers who were only assigned to guard the multimillion road project.

He is scheduled to visit their remains today.

In relation to this, Hataman announced that the scheduled kickoff of the 25th year anniversary celebration of the region on November 7 will not be affected by the shooting. The kickoff is scheduled in the in Sumisip in the island of Basilan. 

Short-, long-term targets to win war

In his Laguna interview, the President said, "We have short-term and long-term targets. For the long term, we have to recover the communities that have been supporting the Abu Sayyaf. We also need to initiate massive development in Sulu, in Basilan. If there is investment, if there is development, the Abu Sayyaf will have no more reason to recruit new members," the President added.

Aquino said the government is not being reactive to the Abu Sayyaf but proactive.

"If you recall, since the German hostages were released, we already launched simultaneous operations against the Abu Sayyaf," he added.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines, Aquino said, has enough forces to deal with the ASG - now estimated at 400, half of which are sympathizers.

"We have several battalions, not just one or two or three, but several battalions composed of some of our most elite forces and the regular line infantry battalions who are going to all of these mountain lairs and very heavily wooded jungle and dense areas to precisely deprive them of safe havens," the President said.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/98419/pnoy-tells-afp-to-end-asg-operations-as-hataman-seeks-all-out-war-over-death-of-6-soldiers

Bids wanted for bullet contract

From Business World (Nov 3): Bids wanted for bullet contract

THE PHILIPPINES’ Defense department is in the market for a fresh supply of ammunition for its military and is set to bid out the supply contract this year.

Documents from the Department of National Defense (DND) Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) said that the contract for the supply and delivery of the 14 million rounds of ammunition will have an approved budget funding of P460.1 million.

“These ammunitions are finished products already and no longer needed to be assembled by the Government Arsenal. The Philippine Army will be using them for their operations,” Lawyer Angelito C. Castillo, BAC secretariat, told BusinessWorld on Monday.

Funds for the procurement project will be sourced from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of the Philippine Army for the year 2014.

Under the contract, the DND’s requirements will be 14,639,439 rounds of 5.56 x 45mm ball cartridge, 2,340 rounds of 105mm HE (high explosive) with Fuze cartridge and 1,500 rounds of 105mm Illumination with Fuze.

The first type of ammunition is typically used by assault rifles such as M16s and M14s, while the remaining two are used in field artillery.

To be eligible for the contract, interested bidders must have completed a contract similar to the project within the last five years, the BAC said.

Bidding will be open to all interested companies -- both local and foreign -- which will undergo a discretionary pass or fail criteria as specified in government procurement laws.

Bid opening is scheduled on Nov. 10, 9:00 am at the BAC conference room in the DND building at Camp Aguinaldo on Quezon City.

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=bids-wanted-for-bullet-contract&id=97213

Bangsamoro dev’t plan has to close fund gap

From Business World (Nov 3): Bangsamoro dev’t plan has to close fund gap

THE PHILIPPINES may seek assistance from international donors and aid agencies to “bridge the gap in funding” a development plan for the proposed autonomous region for ethnic Moros in Mindanao.

Although several programs under the Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) have already been bankrolled by the GAA (General Appropriations Act), a funding gap still remains, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel head Mohagher Iqbal said in a phone interview.

“That is the consequence of the development plan presentation in Davao. That we’ll be able to bridge the gap in the funding,” Mr. Iqbal added.

However, no pledges have yet been made “but that’s the purpose of the launch” of the BDP in Davao, said Mr. Iqbal, who, together with other government officials, signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in March this year.

The BDP will be presented to the public and international agencies like the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) during the Philippine Development forum in Davao City on Nov. 5 to 6. The event will be attended by President Benigno S. C. Aquino III, who will also deliver a speech.

The Bangsamoro Development Plan, which details the blueprint of the government’s rehabilitation and recovery initiatives for areas to be included in the new Bangsamoro region, was presented to the President last Thursday and submitted to the MILF central committee on Sunday, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Q. Deles said in a text message.

The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), tasked to come up with the development plan, requires P110 billion to implement its short and midterm programs which covers the economy, infrastructure, education and agriculture development. The plan will also provide “equitable access to jobs and livelihood, and establish rule of law, security and stability.”

The six-year development plan is an initiative of the MILF through the BDA which was supported by government peace panel and development partners. Guided by the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and its Annexes, the plan will provide strategic directions for the delivery and upgrade of basic services in Bangsamoro communities during and beyond the transition period.

Donor agencies -- including consultants from the World Bank, United Nations and JICA -- provided technical and financial support to the BDP formulation which seeks to address “thematic areas” of the economy, social, environmental and natural resources, politics, security, culture and identity, and the cross-cutting themes of gender and development, peace-building and youth.

In its Web site, the BDA said the programs under the BDP “are meant to smoothen the transition from the ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) to the Bangsamoro Transition Agency, to the New Bangsamoro Government in the short term and lay the solid foundations for a just, lasting peace and prosperous Bangsamoro for the mid and long term.

The BDA noted that to date, residents of the proposed Bangsamoro region hold the highest incidence of poverty, with nearly a million falling within working age. Many are also unemployed, 75% of which are women. In the region 63% of its population depend on small-scale agriculture, and only 0.5% of farm-to-market roads are paved, and irrigated areas only cover 25.8%.

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=bangsamoro-dev’t-plan-has-to-close-fund-gap&id=97218

Communist rebels kill 2 soldiers

From Business Mirror (Nov 3): Communist rebels kill 2 soldiers

TWO soldiers were killed on Monday after they were ambushed by members of the New People’s Army while on their way to an evacuation center in the town of Daraga in Albay.

Lt. Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo, commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, said two soldiers were on the way to an evacuation center to check the security situation in the area when they were fired upon by rebels at around 7:40 a.m. at Barangay Anislag, Daraga.

Peñaredondo refused to reveal the identities of the two soldiers pending notification of their next of kin.

However, a separate report from the Bicol police command identified the factalities as Pfcs. Dario Mahawis and Jerome Sambrona. It also said that the ambush exactly happened at Purok 5, Barangay Anislag.

Peñaredondo deployed a squad of soldiers that was able to catch up with the fleeing rebels, triggering a five-minute firefight. No casualties were reported in the brief gun battle.

Col. Raul Farnacio, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade based in Albay ordered the deployment of other units to track down the rebels.

Despite the ambush, the Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command said it will continue to render humanitarian assistance to evacuees who left their homes owing to the threat of eruption by Mayon Volcano in Albay.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/communist-rebels-kill-2-soldiers/

3 US Navy ships cancel Subic port call

From the Business Mirror (Nov 3): 3 US Navy ships cancel Subic port call

THREE US Navy ships have canceled their scheduled port call at Subic Bay owing to operational requirements and not because of anti-American sentiments, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

“The reconsideration of the port call is a normal occurrence as US ships deployed in the Pacific are subject to operational requirements,” DFA Spokesman Charles Jose said in a news briefing.

He said the DFA was informed recently of the cancellation by the US Embassy in Manila through a diplomatic note.

News reports said nine US Navy ships, scheduled to arrive this month until December have decided to cancel their port calls “due to anti-American sentiments” in the country after a US Marine was implicated in the slaying of a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City last month.

The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce was quoted as saying local businessmen are disappointed for losing the business in anticipation of the rest and recreation the sailors are expected to enjoy while docked in Subic.

The DFA said that the three ships are part of the nine-strong flotilla ships that has canceled the port call.

Jose belied claims that the cancellation of the visit was due to anti-American sentiments prevailing in the wake of the killing of transgender Jeffrey Laude.

“It is not true [that it is because] of anti-American sentiments, usually the purpose of port calls are for repair and operational reasons. We can say they are not related to joint military exercises, they are not related at all,” Jose said.

He added that ships which fail to call could have been sent to other ports doing the same repair.

Jose added that the alleged killing of Laude by US Marines Pfc. Joseph Scott Pemberton is “not reason to cancel…we don’t see the ongoing case to be a reason.”

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/3-us-navy-ships-cancel-subic-port-call/

Video: MILF chair fears peace deal failure

From ABS-CBN/Bandila (Nov 3): Video: MILF chair fears peace deal failure



MILF chair fears peace deal failure
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DU1_Ti2hLU&list=PLgyY1WylJUmhscQkQSNuHSeaMCrBlGY0V

MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim about his insights in the possible Bangsamoro government. The MILF is worried that the peace deal talks might fail again.
Nagsalita si MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim tungkol sa kanyang mga saloobin sa ikinakasang Bangsamoro government. Nangangamba ang MILF na posibleng madiskaril na naman ang usapang pangkapayapaan. Exclusive i-Bandila mo, Ron Gagalac! Bandila, Nobyembre 3, 2014, Lunes

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/nation/11/03/14/excl-milf-chair-fears-peace-deal-failure

AFP: Abu Sayyaf clash won't hamper road construction

ABS-CBN (Nov 3): AFP: Abu Sayyaf clash won't hamper road construction

The remains of six soldiers killed in an encounter with the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan on Sunday are now in Zamboanga City.

Five of the soldiers have been identified as coming from Northern Mindanao, while their senior officer hailed from Bacnotan, La Union.

The slain soldiers were 2Lt. Jun Corpuz, Sgt. Tranquelino Germo, Pvt. First Class Roland Enterra, Pvt. First Class Freddie, Pvt. First Class Raffy, and Pvt. First Class Mark Anthony Singson.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) earlier said it received information that the group of one Radzmi Jannatul attacked the soldiers.

AFP spokesperson Harold Cabunoc said the families of the slain soldiers have been informed of the development and will be given burial and financial assistance.

The soldiers were securing the construction of the Basilan Circumferential Road project when they were attacked by some 20 Abu Sayyaf bandits.

The AFP has sent reinforcements to Basilan to help in the operations against the Abu Sayyaf.

Cabunoc said a similar attack was carried out two years ago to disrupt the road project. He said the recent attack will not be a reason for the disruption of the road's construction.

''Hindi pwedeng hayaan maantala itong Basilan circumferential road… Ito ang nakikitang tugon ng pamahalaan sa kahirapan at kakulangan ng development sa lugar. Nakakalungkot na ang mga sundalo sa peace and development efforts ay inaatake mismo ng beneficiaries ng naturang proyekto,'' Cabunoc told ANC.

''We will continuously conduct security patrol to make sure it is completed by December 2014. Inaalam pa natin kung itong grupo ni Jannatul ay may hawak na hostages."

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/03/14/afp-abu-sayyaf-clash-wont-hamper-road-construction

Navy, Air Force hold joint interoperability exercise

From the Sun Star-Manila (Nov 3): Navy, Air Force hold joint interoperability exercise

THE Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force conducted a joint interoperability exercise to boost their capabilities on anti-surface, anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations, a military official said Monday.

Acting Director of Naval Public Affairs Office Marineth Domingo said the activity will be held from November 3 to 7 in Naval Base in Cavite, Sangley, Ternate, and in Manila Bay.

She said the participating forces from the Navy are composed of one patrol gunboat, four aircrafts and personnel from Naval Special Operations Group and Philippine Marine Corps while participants from Air Forces will be composed of seven aircrafts and personnel from 710th Special Operations Wing.

"The activities will include subject matter expertise exchanges, shipboard tactical maneuvers, close air support operations, helicopter operations, gunnery exercises, maritime air surveillance, and communication exercises," Domingo said.

She said the exercise will help strengthen the camaraderie between the participating troops, sporting events and social interactions who will also form part of the activity.

"Enhancing capability through this joint exercise will enable both forces to assert more efficiency in the conduct of its mandated task. It also hopes to test and assess the tactical level communications between PAF and PN assets, as well as to strengthen mutual relationship and interoperability of the participants," the spokesperson said.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2014/11/03/navy-air-force-hold-joint-interoperability-exercise-374474

AFP probes death of 6 soldiers in Basilan

From the Sun Star-Manila (Nov 3): AFP probes death of 6 soldiers in Basilan

ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gregorio Catapang ordered Monday a thorough investigation into the death of six soldiers in a clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Basilan last weekend.

On Sunday morning, soldiers from the Army's 64th Infantry Battalion were engaged in a gunfight with at least 20 members of the Abu Sayyaf group while they were conducting a security patrol in a government road project along Sitio Mompol of Libug village, Sumisip, Basilan.

The fatalities were identified as Second Lieutenant Jun Corpuz, Sergeant Tranquilino Germo, Private First Class (Pfc) Rolando Entera Jr., Pfc. Freddie G. Pandoy, Pfc. Raffy Canuto and Pfc. Mark Anthony Singson.

AFP Public Affairs Chief Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said majority of slain soldiers were new in the service but he assured that they received proper training prior to their deployment.

"Hindi natin pwedeng sabihin na kaya ganoon ang nangyare sakanila ay dahil mga baguhan sila, of course not, nagdaan sila sa matinding training at nag-aral ng ilang taon sa Philippine Military Academy bago sila isinabak sakanilang tungkulin," he said.

The military was verifying reports of casualties on the enemy side as the AFP claimed bloodstains were found along their escape route.

"We are now directing a conduct of investigation as to how the incident happened. I'm not saying anything as of now whether who was at fault or there were tactical lapses. What is important is the incident is being investigated," Catapang said.

Asked if the military launched an "all out war" against the Abu Sayyaf group in Basilan following the clash, Catapang said they are still studying the possibility of such considering the population in the area.

"We cannot just say outrightly there is a need, maybe, I want to talk to the people of Basilan, to the province and maybe just what like we did in Jolo, we go there talk with the cause oriented group, dialogue with them, ask them their sentiments and how we can turnaround the situation from an area that is difficult into an moro area that is peaceful and productive," he said.

The AFP chief said that there is enough force in the area to implement the anti-insurgency campaign of the government.

Catapang meanwhile said the AFP will provide financial assistance to the family of the slain soldiers.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2014/11/03/afp-probes-death-6-soldiers-basilan-374494

Police: No vacuum in security forces deployment

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 3): Police: No vacuum in security forces deployment

THE Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) director assured the public on Monday there will be no vacuum in the deployment of security forces despite the pull out of military troops in the city.

Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro said troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT-1) have been deployed in areas vacated by the MBLT-11 forces.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) pulled out the MBLT-11 and reassigned the entire battalion to Basilan province to assist in pursuing the Abu Sayyaf bandits.

The MBLT-1 troops from Patikul, Sulu have replaced the MBLT-11 forces.

Casimiro said the MBLT-1 troops were immediately deployed at ground zero and other areas of this city.

Ground zero refers to areas that were severely affected during the 21-day September 2013 siege in this city.

The siege started on September 9, 2013 when hundreds of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members loyal to MNLF founding-chair Nur Misuari infiltrated several areas of the city.

Casimiro said the Philippine Army’s Division Reconnaissance Company-12 was also pulled out and replaced by troops from Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion.

“We have to make some adjustments as far as the security coordination in the posturing of our policemen as the security forces are making readjustment as far as the incident in Basilan is concern,” Casimiro said.

The AFP deployed the Army and Marine forces to help the police secure this city following the September 2013 siege.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2014/11/03/police-no-vacuum-security-forces-deployment-374531

MILF: Optimism abounds for Bangsamoro Deveopment Plan

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 3): Optimism abounds for Bangsamoro Deveopment Plan



High hopes for socio-economic growth were raised anew as the Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) was formally accepted by MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim yesterday during a formal turn-over and launching rites held at the revolutionary front’s Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
  

The MILF chieftain received the copy of the BDP from the Bangsamoro Development Agency which was tasked to formulate the plan beginning March 2013.

The BDP was described as “a blueprint for the development of the Bangsamoro into a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.”

Chairman Murad said the BDP is in support to the peace achievements between the GPH and MILF with the aim of reclaiming a “dignified quality of life” for the Bangsamoro.

Emphasizing the importance of the BDP, Murad spoke also in Magindanawn and told the hundreds of guests that the BDP is another level of struggle of the Bangsamoro.

“We have to strive for its implementation so that all can taste the fruits of our struggle,” Murad said. 

In explaining the contents of the plan, BDA Executive Director Mohammad S. Yacob mentioned that priority projects would be made across seven program areas—economy and livelihood, infrastructure, social services, environment and natural resources, culture and identity, governance, and security and normalization— and would be implemented in the envisioned core territories and adjacent areas of the prospective Bangsamoro government.

For MILF Peace Panel Chief and Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, the BDP is not only one of the historic documents achieved by the Moro struggle but it forms part of the “historic opportunity to bring back the glory of our past and build our lives in decency, security and progress.”

Tengku Dato’Abd Gafar Bin Tenku Mohamed, the Malaysian Facilitator for the GPH-MILF Peace Negotiations, also hailed the BDP as a “classic contribution of the Filipino and Bangsamoro” towards peace building.
“The BDP is the only development plan in the world that has been written by a revolutionary group,” he emphasized.

MILF 1st Vice Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar had similar description by stating that the BDP is “unique in the sense that it is crafted in a period when communities are still emerging from protracted conflict.”

Congratulations and support

OPAPP Sec. Teresita Quintos-Deles attested to the GPH’s commitment and support.

“The BDP is an attempt to present clear vision of peace and development,” she said.

Even DBM Secretary Florencio Abad was emphatic in ensuring that adequate and ample financing would be extended to the plan implementation so that immediate benefits would be felt by all.

International donor agencies, who played critical role in providing material and manpower resources, were also optimistic for the success of the BDP.

The aid agencies were represented by United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Luiza Carvalho, Japan International Cooperative Agency (JICA) Country Director Noriaki Niwa and Matt Stephens who stood in behalf  World Bank (WB) Country Director Motoo Konishi.

Carvalho announced that the BDP would have its initial public presentation during the Philippine Development Forum on Nov. 5 at Davao City.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1323-optimism-abounds-for-bangsamoro-deveopment-plan

CPP: "Joma Bilang Kabataang Aktibista" OFFICIAL TRAILER

Another "Cult of Sison" propaganda video posted to the CPP Website (Nov 2): Video: "Joma Bilang Kabataang Aktibista" OFFICIAL TRAILER



"Joma Bilang Kabataang Aktibista" OFFICIAL TRAILER
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2Zkg1NbsT4

Official trailer for video documentary "Joma Bilang Kabataang Aktibista" (Joma As A Young Activist).

Produced by Euro-Philippines Inter Cultural Solidarity (EPICS) in cooperation with Point of View (POV) Productions and Internationals Network for Philippine Studies (Stiching I.N.P.S.).

Directed by Mitchy Mallorca Saturay.

Written by Ruth de Leon and Ilena Saturay.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/

CPP/NDF: NDF-EV slams Aquino’s Yolanda rehab master plan as yet another “pork barrel”

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Nov 3): NDF-EV slams Aquino’s Yolanda rehab master plan as yet another “pork barrel”

Fr. Santiago Salas (Ka Sanny)
Spokesperson
NDFP Eastern Visayas Chapter

 

The P167.9 billion Yolanda rehab master plan signed by President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is nothing but “pork barrel” in disguise, the National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas (NDF-EV) said today. “The Aquino regime further inflames the Yolanda survivors by dumping on their heads what is essentially a “pork barrel” disguised as a rehabilitation master plan,” said NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago “Ka Sanny” Salas. “The so-called Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan (CRRP) will not benefit the millions of people affected by Supertyphoon Yolanda. Instead, it is a package of political patronage for Aquino’s big business cronies as well as his political allies who are gearing for the 2016 elections. It is part of the regime’s election war chest.”

The NDF-EV spokesperson said the CRRP by itself is too little, too late and too corrupt. “The CRRP contradicts an earlier government estimate by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) of the total cost of damages by Yolanda pegged at P571.1 billion pesos. The NEDA also said earlier that P360.9 billion pesos would be needed for recovery and reconstruction, which is only 63% of the damage assessment. The CRRP signed by Aquino allocates even less government aid. Worse, whatever little the Aquino deigns to give will not be going to the poor, but for the entrenchment of the rich and powerful.”

Fr. Salas said the CRRP is a bonanza for the Aquino regime’s big business cronies as well as politicians in Eastern Visayas and elsewhere in the “Yolanda corridor” who are close to to the regime. “The bulk of CRRP will go to resettlement projects worth P75.67 billion. These will benefit businesses in property development and real estate in two ways. First, they will build the resettlement projects for communities which are targeted for demolition, including 33 barangays in Tacloban City in Leyte alone. And second, the areas that have been demolished are being eyed as business enclaves for call centers, resorts, casinos, and the like. In Tacloban City and other areas, Manny Pangilinan and Enrique Razon already have vested interests, along with other wealthy families like Ayala, Sy, Gaisano, Aboitiz, among others.

“The other allotments in CRRP will benefit the Aquino regime’s allies in the local government. The P35.1 billion for infrastructure, for example, is prone to corruption. Meanwhile, the P30.6 billion for livelihood and P26.4 billion for social services may be used for political patronage through sham social amelioration programs. For example, the Aquino government’s “cash for work” and 4Ps program have long been used by local politicians to buy votes in their bailiwicks. Moreover, the Aquino government has not been transparent about the actual amount of foreign aid received and distributed, opening room for doubt that much of this went to corruption.”

The NDF-EV spokesperson also noted the CRRP does not offer anything for peasants who are the majority of those who suffered from Yolanda’s onslaught last November 8, 2013. “According to reports by the Yolanda survivors themselves, the damage to agriculture and fisheries is pegged at P144 billion and that is in Eastern Visayas alone – almost equivalent to the government aid package for all Yolanda-affected regions. The production of coconut, a major crop, will take up to a decade to fully restore. Other crops for commercial and consumption purposes are just barely recovering after being almost totally wiped out, such as bananas, vegetables and root crops. The majority of Yolanda survivors are on the brink of starvation, but there is no government for them.”

Fr. Salas said the Aquino government’s Yolanda rehabilitation master is another disaster that will lead to more suffering as well as fodder for the demand to oust the current administration. “The Yolanda survivors are further inflamed that the CRRP may be the last straw. The Aquino regime is heading for a showdown with the Yolanda survivors in Eastern Visayas. The people are fed up with the social injustice and corruption surrounding the Yolanda rehabilitation master plan. The Aquino regime is ripe for ouster for proving beyond doubt through its CRRP that it is hastening the rotting of the reactionary ruling system through its “pork barrel” patronage politics.
“The international community should demand accountability from the Aquino regime over the billions of aid that has remained unaccounted. They should support the struggle of the survivors for justice.

“It is a matter of justice that the people press on with their democratic demands for land, livelihood, financial aid and adequate shelter. The Yolanda survivors and others who survived other calamities can unite to strengthen their struggle for reparations the reactionary government and its US imperialist master owes them. In the final analysis, there can be genuine reconstruction only through winning the national democratic revolution. Only by waging and winning the national democratic revolution can there be a government that does not rely on the “pork barrel” but serves the interests of the people, ensures agrarian reform and national industrialization for national progress, and carry out policies for the protection of the people and the environment so another Yolanda will never wreak such havoc again.”#

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141103_ndf-ev-slams-aquino-s-yolanda-rehab-master-plan-as-yet-another-pork-barrel

Taiwan acquiring 6 mine countermeasure vessels, China opposes

From Ang Malaya (Nov 3): Taiwan acquiring 6 mine countermeasure vessels, China opposes

Taiwan is reported to be building 6 brand-new mine countermeasure vessels (MCMV) with the help of Italian shipbuilder Intermarine SpA and U.S. defense firm Lockheed Martin Corp. The $1.2 billion project was won by Ching Fu Shipbuilding Co Ltd, largest shipbuilder in Taiwan.

MCMV is naval ship designed to locate and destroy naval mines combining the role of a minesweeper and minehunter vessels in one ship.

When asked to comment on the said military project, China said it is opposing any military cooperation between Taiwan and other foreign country. US is the largest political ally and defense equipment supplier of Taiwan.

“China firmly opposes foreign arms sale to Taiwan and any form of military technology exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and foreign countries. This position is clear-cut and consistent,” Chinese foreign ministry said.

“We ask relevant countries to respect China’s core interests, adhere to the one-China principle, neither sell arms to Taiwan in any form nor assist Taiwan in developing its military equipment, and take concrete actions to support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and peaceful reunification of China.”

http://www.angmalaya.net/world/2014/11/03/5401-taiwan-acquiring-6-mine-countermeasure-vessels-china-opposes

Three US ships scheduled for port visit to PHL cancelled

From Ang Malaya (Nov 3): Three US ships scheduled for port visit to PHL cancelled

Port calls of three United States military ships in Subic Bay, Olongapo this month was cancelled, this was confirmed by Department of Foreign Affairs. The DFA was informed by US through normal diplomatic channels.

According to the communication, cancellation was due to “operational reasons.”

“We don’t see the ongoing case to be a reason,” DFA Spokesman Assistant Secretary Charles Jose said. A US marine is currently involve in the slay of a Filipino transgender. Private first class Joseph Scott Pemberton is the main suspect. Pemberton was part of the recent naval exercise between US and Philippine troops.

“The reconsideration of the visit is normal occurrence as US ships are deployed in many areas of the Pacific and subject to changing operational requirements,” Jose explained.

“Usually the purpose of port calls is for repair, and operational reasons. We can say that they are not related to the joint military exercises, they are not related at all.”

It was reported that additional six US warships scheduled for port call before the year ends were cancelled. However, Jose said Philippine government was not yet notified on the said cancellation.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/11/03/5428-three-us-ships-scheduled-for-port-visit-to-phl-cancelled

NDF warns of tactical offensives

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 3): NDF warns of tactical offensives

The assumption of Lt. Col. Pompeyo Jason Almagro as the new commander of the 47 th Infantry Battalion in southern Negros will be met with tactical offensives, Andrea Guerrero, spokesperson of the Armando Sumayang Command - Southwest Front, said.

 

Guerrero claimed that the predecessor of Almagro, Lt. Col. Ariel Reyes, was reportedly relieved for his failure to dismantle the South West Front, despite the implementation of the IPSP (Internal Peace and Security Plan) Bayanihan, and the surrender of alleged NPA members, among other others.

 

On the contrary, she claimed, the Southwest Front remains stronger and has even expanded.

 

The 3 rd Infantry Division, however, praised the leadership of Reyes for maintaining its records of zero human rights violations, and for successfully “winning the peace” campaign in southern Negros.

 

Reyes was even conferred the Military Merit Medal and 3ID Command Plaque by Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, 3ID commanding general, during the turnover of command ceremony in Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, last month.

 

Despite the continued military operations to protect the Philex mining, Guerrero said the people of the 6 th district are up in arms against the destructive operations of the mining firm.

 

She also claimed that the Southwest Front was responsible for the punishment of several members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit, including a certain Tagar in Brgy. Yao-Yao, Cauayan, Junar in Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, and a certain Elmer, a member of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade in Brgy. Locotan, Kabankalan City.

 

Meanwhile, Almagro solicited the support of local government units, nongovernment organizations, and other stakeholders in winning the peace campaign, in southern Negros.

 

The 47th IB is now under the supervision of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental.

 

Guerrero scored what she alleged to be deceptions of Almagro in the recycled “winning the peace” program, claiming that it is doomed to fail again.

 

“We will welcome the program of Col. Almagro and his fake peace program with mounting protests of the people and tactical offensives,” she said.

 

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/November/03/topstory5.htm

Catapang eyes shakeup of commanders over Basilan incident

From InterAksyon (Nov 3): Catapang eyes shakeup of commanders over Basilan incident



Photo by Krisken Jones

General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, is expected to implement a "major shake-up" of commanders operating in Basilan province after Sunday's ambush by elements of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) that almost wiped out a squad of infantry men led by a young second lieutenant.

"Definitely, heads will roll over the incident. The Chief of Staff is not happy about what happened," a military official, who was speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed to InterAksyon.com

The source said that, possibly, the first to be relieved from his position could be Lt. Col. Melisan Raymund Recaido, commanding officer of the 64th Infantry Battalion.

The same source added that, if the operating command fails to convince the AFP top brass of its explanation, the relief order could also hit the commander of the 104th Infantry Brigade, Col. Rolando Bautista.

Bautista was just three months old in his brigade position.

On Monday, Catapang expressed dismay over the incident during a news conference with reporters at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

"We are now directing the conduct of an investigation as to how the incident happened. I'm not saying anything, as of now, about who could be at fault or if there were tactical lapses. What's important is that the incident is being investigated," Catapang said.

Among the six slain soldiers was 2nd Lt. Jun C. Corpuz, commanding officer of the Foxtrot Company.

Corpuz ranked 13th when he graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Siklab Diwa" Class of 2014. He is a native of Bacnotan, La Union.

Aside from the casualties, four high-powered firearms were also taken away by the 20 Abu Sayyaf fighters suspected to be led by Radzmi Jannatul.

This impending reshuffle of commanders in Basilan would not be the first such development. The same thing happened many times before, the latest of which was in the wake of the day-long battle in Al-Barka town in October 2012 between 80 Special Forces troops against almost 400 combined fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and ASG that led to the death of 19 soldiers and 14 others suffering serious wounds.

Two full Colonels and two Lt. Colonels were relieved that time from their positions and subjected to court martial proceedings.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/98458/catapang-eyes-shakeup-of-commanders-over-basilan-incident

Photo: Bangsamoro Development Plan

From MindaNews (Nov 2): Photo: Bangsamoro Development Plan



Moro Islamic Liberation Front chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim (right) receives a copy of the Bangsamoro Development Plan from Bangsamoro Development (BDA) chair Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan during a ceremony at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on November 2, 2014. MindaNews photo by Toto Lozano

http://www.mindanews.com/

Troops grieve for slain heroes

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Nov 3): Troops grieve for slain heroes









Coffins of 6 slain soldiers arrived in Zamboanga City on Monday. (Photos by Ely Dumaboc, Western Mindanao Command)

Troops were grieving for the untimely demise of six soldiers, one of them a young lieutenant, who were killed by the Abu Sayyaf in a clash in Basilan province in the troubled Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.

On Monday, their flag-draped coffins were paraded inside the Western Mindanao Command headquarters in Zamboanga City. The coffins of the six soldiers – Second Lieutenant Jun Corpuz, Sergeant Tranquilino Germo, Jr., Private First Class Roland Entera, Jr., Private First Class Freddie Pandoy, Private First Class Raffy Canuto and Private First Class Mark Anthony Singson – were brought to a chapel where troops honored them.

They were slain in a battle Sunday with militants in Sumisip town, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, just several nautical miles south of here. The soldiers were patrolling the village when they engaged about 20 militants sparking a running gun battle. Marine Capt. Maria Rowena Muyuela, a spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command, said the slain soldiers were part of a team guarding a road project in the town. “

The 22-year old Corpuz who graduated this year from the Philippine Military Academy, was the fourth child among the seven children of Cresencio and Elizabeth, both 49. Philippine military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said Corpuz, a brilliant mathematician since his college days, excelled and graduated number 13 in his class at Don Mariano Marcos State University in Bacnotan town in La Union province.

He said Corpuz was a second year engineering student of when he decided to enter the Philippine Military Academy in April 2010. “As a PMA cadet, Corpuz dreamed of becoming a Scout Ranger and yearned to live a life that is full of danger,” he Cabunoc wrote in his blog, saying, the death of the young officer was like losing a brother.

Cabunoc said the slain lieutenant was motivated by the combat stories shared by his maternal uncle, Master Sergeant Jaime Galima, a battle-hardened Scout Ranger who regularly visited his home when he was still a young boy.

“He told me that he would like to earn the 'tabak' (Scout Ranger qualification badge) one day. He really wanted to become a war hero and a warrior like Uncle Jaime," said Emmanuel, 23, his elder brother.

Sergeant Marvin Paragoso, 33, who was one of the two survivors who fought with Corpuz the Abu Sayyaf, described the slain officer as a very good leader who can easily mingle with the troops.

“He was a very caring person who readily listened and helped solve our problems. He always found time to interact with us during our leisure time,” said Paragoso as he held back tears, according to Cabunoc.

He said Paragoso was with Corpuz during a routine security patrol where the construction of the 64-kilometer Basilan Circumferential Road is on-going.  Corpuz and his men saw a high ground that could be used by bandits as a staging ground for their attacks. He decided to clear the bushy part of the hill by personally checking its surroundings.

“While climbing the hill, we saw a man who hurriedly left away from the crest. All of a sudden our leading elements were heavily engaged in an intense firefight, hitting some of them. Positioned a few meters from the leading elements, Lt. Corpuz commanded us to provide supporting fires to save them. We fought hard but we were overwhelmed by their numbers,” Paragoso narrated.

Sensing that they will be encircled, Paragoso convinced Corpuz to jump towards a ravine and find a covered position as he radioed for reinforcements. “I saw Lt. Corpuz firing his gun at our attackers while I leaped towards a defilade to escape from the high-explosive rounds that rained on us. I was hit and bleeding so I crawled towards safety,” he said.

When his comrades came after about half an hour, they found the lifeless body of Corpuz. “I will never forget a compassionate leader like him. True to his word, he left no one behind,” said Paragoso, a native of Cotabato.

“He died fighting to save his wounded comrades whom he considered as his brothers. Tears flowed as they carried all of the six fatalities back to their detachment,” Cabunoc said.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/troops-grieve-for-slain-heroes.html

Anonymous Philippines defaces government portals

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Nov 3): Anonymous Philippines defaces government portals



Anonymous Philippines on Monday hacked several government portals ahead of a global protest against corruption and tyranny.

Hackers defaced at least 10 websites:

http://gppb.gov.ph, http://dirp4.pids.gov.ph/CDN, http://braulioedujali.gov.ph, http://laguna.gov.ph/fb, http://laguna.gov.ph/gov_mobile,
http://laguna.gov.ph/webupdate, http://ictconvention.dti.gov.ph, http://opms.dti.gov.ph, http://pricewatch.dti.gov.ph, http://paoaccreditation.dti.gov.ph, http://bps.dti.gov.ph, http://www.niccep.dti.gov.ph, and http://msme.dti.gov.ph/index.php.

Some of the websites managed to go online later in the day.

Anonymous Philippines left a message on the defaced portals, saying:

“Together we must stand tall and remind this world what it has forgotten; that fairness, justice and freedom are more than just words. The people of the world have become their own worst enemy, because we have become way to accommodating in accepting the treachery constantly handed out by our governments.”

“Throw your political ideologies to the side on November 5th and stand tall with a fellow human against worldwide government corruption and tyranny. Protest rallies are planned worldwide, in nearly every city so please give a little of your time to the greater good. The silent majority is a minority if their voices are not heard. Humanity needs you.”

It also urged Filipinos to wear any mask and join the November 5 protests. “To the public, our friends, our brothers and sisters within the global community; get your masks out. Any mask will do. Any political affiliation will do, because in the end isn't it just us peasants against the monarchs? We, together, must act in solidarity. No longer can we maintain the "Me," or "My political party," mentality when we are all affected by governments that do not listen to their people's wishes.”

The hackers said the government has failed the people and urged citizens to unite to fight corruption and tyranny.

“Your governments have failed you; they sit atop their thrones and abuse their power. They are deaf to the will of the people. The system is broken. If this moment passes idly by without a whimper than together we will all be at fault for securing that future generations will never have a voice,” Anonymous Philippines said.

A Filipino youth group Anakbayan said latest attacks by hackers show a growing disgust on the Aquino administration.

“This is an indication of growing anger versus the Aquino government's corruption, the continuing misuse of government funds, cronyism and unabated hikes,” said Vencer Crisostomo Anakbayan National Chairperson.

In November last year, Anonymous Philippines also hacked into several dozen government websites and posted a message urging citizens to join a march to protest widespread corruption in government.

It posted its animated logo on all hacked websites, including the Ombudsman of the Philippines and it was the nth time Anonymous Philippines hacked into government websites and left them crippled in protest to various issues affecting the Filipinos.

Last year’s protest in Manila also dubbed “Million Mask March” drew hundreds of Filipinos disgruntled with government corruption and scandals involving the Priority Development Assistance Fund of legislators and the Disbursement Acceleration Program of President Benigno Aquino.

Filipino government officials have not issued any statement about the targeted hacking and the planned protest.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/anonymous-philippines-defaces.html