Army on red alert as BIFF continues harassment in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): Army on red alert as BIFF continues harassment in Maguindanao

The military here has placed its forces on heightened alert and deployed more foot soldiers along Maguindanao's major highways after the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) stepped up its offensive against government forces the past two days.

"We are pursuing them, we will not allow the group to sow harm to our civilians and to our troops," Army Captain Joanne Petinglay, chief of the 6th Infantry Division public affairs unit, said.

Three bombing attempts intended for Army roadside checkpoints in portions of the Cotabato City-Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao highway were carried out by the BIFF, the Army official said.

On Friday, the BIFF fired assault rifles and rifle grenades toward an Army outpost in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao.

The Army retaliated, forcing the bandits to flee with six of its wounded comrades.

On Saturday night, the BIFF again attempted but failed to overrun the detachment of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town.

Petinglay said the bandits were forced to back off when the Army retaliated, using caliber .50 machine guns.

On Sunday night, the bandits again launched an attack to overrun the Army base in Datu Salibo, also in Maguindanao, but alert soldiers fired at the bandits before they could fire the first shot.

However, the attackers managed to lob a rusty fragmentation grenade that failed to go off.

Abu Misry Mama, spokesman of BIFF, admitted their fighters were behind the atrocities, saying it was in retaliation for the Army's offensives two weeks ago that flushed out BIFF in the borders of Pikit, North Cotabato and Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

Petinglay said military units in Maguindanao have imposed tighter security measures to restrain the BIFF.

The 1st Mechanized Infantry brigade deployed more troops along the highway backed by armored personnel carriers to ensure the safety of commuters.

Earlier, the Army advised commuters to avoid the Maguindanao highway at night to prevent getting caught in a crossfire in case firefights erupt.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=716305

Series of attacks vs Army detachments in Maguindanao continue, 5 soldiers wounded

From InterAksyon (Dec 15): Series of attacks vs Army detachments in Maguindanao continue, 5 soldiers wounded



BIFF spokesman Abu Misrie Mama admitted that his group were behind the series of attacks on military installations. AFP FILE PHOTO

Elements of the 6th Infantry Division continues to be on high alert following the continued attacks of armed groups in their area of responsibility.

Last Friday night, the exchange of gunfire between the military and attacking rebels in Barangay Nabundas, Mamasapano, Maguindanao lasted an hour and a half.

Three soldiers were injured when suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters fired a grenade launcher at them, said 6th ID information chief Captain Joan Petinglay.

At about 7:30 p.m. Sunday night, BIFF members attacked the 2nd Mech Battalion in Barangay Kabinge, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, wounding two soldiers.

At the same time, a grenade lobbed at a military checkpoint in Sambolawan, Datu Salibo, also past 7 p.m. Sunday fortunately failed to explode.

The perpetrators who tried to bomb the checkpoint were on board a HiLux vehicle, Captain Petinglay added.

BIFF spokesman Abu Misrie Mama owned up to the series of violent incidents in the province.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101178/series-of-attacks-vs-army-detachments-in-maguindanao-continue-5-soldiers-wounded

Top NPA commander with P2.5-million bounty captured in ComVal

From InterAksyon (Dec 15): Top NPA commander with P2.5-million bounty captured in ComVal

A high-ranking leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested in a joint operation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Barangay Magnaga, Pantukan, Compostela Valley Province late Sunday afternoon.

Lieutenant Vergel Lacambra identified the NPA leader as Jordan Donillo alias Noli or Estong. He was arrested by virtue of several warrants of arrest for double murder and multiple frustrated murders.

Lacambra said Donillo is a member of the Special Operations Group of the NPA’s National Military Command that was tasked to assassinate retired General Jovito Palparan in Metro Manila in 2000 before he was reassigned to lead the NPAs in Compostela Valley Province.

Donillo held various positions, including as Secretary of Guerilla Front 18 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) from 2006-2010. At the time of his arrest, Donillo was the commander of the main guerilla force of Guerilla Front 18 with P2.5 million cash reward for his arrest.

Donillo also has a string of cases for attempted murder, robbery in band with multiple frustrated murder, and murder.

Lacambra recalled that Donillo was once apprehended by the police in 2002 for the criminal cases but he was reportedly rescued by comrades.

“His notoriety can be traced back when he led his NPA unit in attacking San Isidro Municipal Police Station on August 22, 2007 and Davao Oriental Provincial Jail in Mati City on May 19, 2008. He also led the attack of Banay-banay Municipal Police Station on July 3, 2008 and the arson of Bachelor Bus in Banay-banay last CY 2009,” Lacambra said.

Lacambra further revealed that Donillo also led the attack of a military temporary patrol base of 28th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Chapter, Barangay Maputi, Banay-banay on May 2010.

“These atrocities and terroristic operations resulted in the killing of soldiers PFCs Gomez, Raro, and Dela Cruz and wounding of PFCs Masayon, Jumahali, Bagonon, and Zaulda, and police officer Pesian," he said.

Tenth Infantry Division Commander, Major General Eduardo M. Año, lauded the men behind the arrest of Donillo, saying, “It is major victory in the campaign to bring justice to the victims of terroristic activities by the CPP-NPA.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101183/top-npa-commander-with-p2-5-million-bounty-captured-in-comval

Traumatised by ordeal

From the Star Online (Dec 14): Traumatised by ordeal



Lingering trauma: Chan and Chin at the police station soon after his release. Looking on are Sabah CID chief SAC Salehudin Abdul Rahman (left) and Sandakan police chief ACP Zabidi Zain.

KOTA KINABALU: Freedom might have come at last to fish farm manager Chan Sai Chuin after nearly half a year in captivity, but he is still haunted by what he has gone through.

His 42-year-old wife Chin Pek Nyen said he would often get up in the middle of the night. “Maybe, he thinks he is still being held captive. He is still not himself and doesn’t talk as much yet. He needs time to recover,” she said in a telephone interview here yesterday.

Recalling the instant they saw each other for the first time after his release, Chin said it was the most emotional moment of her life.

“We just ran into each other’s arms and cried.

“Neither of us could say anything,” she said, adding that she was thankful that her 32-year-old husband was finally home safe.

The couple, who are now with families in Perak, are expected to return to their fish farm on Friday.

On June 16, Chan was kidnapped by Filipino gunmen during a raid at their farm in Kunak and later taken to the southern Philippines, where other hostages were also held.

Chan was released on Tuesday after negotiators apparently delivered the ransom money to the Abu Sayyaf group, led by the Sawadjan brothers.

Sources said the brothers, who were assimilated into another group under Alhasbi Misaya, guarded Chan in the Jolo islands since he was handed over by a cross-border kidnap-for-ransom gang.

http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2014/12/14/Traumatised-by-ordeal-Freed-fish-farm-manager-not-himself-yet-and-unable-to-sleep/

UN official: No evidence of ISIS in the Philippines

From Rappler (Dec 14): UN official: No evidence of ISIS in the Philippines

Although the terror has not yet reached the Philippines, UN officials caution the government to stay on guard



ISLAMIC STATE? Screenshot of Youtube video showing senior Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon swearing allegiance to ISIS

Despite reports that at least two separate extremist groups have pledged their allegiance to the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a United Nations official gave assurances on Sunday, December 14 that the terror group has yet to penetrate the Philippines.

“(There is) no evidence yet that they (ISIS) are in the Philippines. But they will try to expand their network as much as they can. So, it is possible that one day, they will come,” said Jean-Paul Laborde, executive director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED).

 

Along with UN-CTED Senior Legal Officer Sue Takasu, Laborde arrived in the Philippines on Wednesday, December 9, to assess the country’s anti-terrorism efforts and capabilities amid the unrest in Syria and Iraq.

 

In June 2014, ISIS formally declared the establishment of caliphate in the Middle East and East Asia. (READ: ISIS threat to Philippine security)

Since the world organization conducted its assessment in 2006, Takasu said the country’s anti-terrorism efforts has improved.

 

One of the key gains is on the cooperative relationship between the police and the state prosecutors, compared to 2006 when both sectors clashed as far as the prosecution of suspected terrorists was concerned.

 

Takasu also lauded the enactment of the Human Security Act of 2007, and the amendment of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2002.

 

“We found that the Philippines has made a lot of progress in terms of anti-terrorism capabilities,” Takasu said.

 

Points for improvement

 

There are, however, still areas for improvement.

 

Laborde said the Philippines should focus on measures such as the military disciplinary approach, improving legislation and prevention of flight to Iraq and Syria.

 

According to military, there are at least 5 Muslim extermist groups that are vulnerable to influence by ISIS: Abu Sayyaf, Jemaah Islamiyah, Rajah Solaiman Movement, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, and Khilafa Islamiyah Mindanao.

 

Authorities maintain that there are no confirmation about the reports that some ISIS supporters are in the Philippines.

 

This year, two suspected ISIS supporters of foreign origins were arrested and deported by the government: Musa Cerantonio, an Australian arrested in Cebu and Abu Ameen Pilal Philipps, a Canadian arrested in Davao City.

 

Cerantonio was arrested for actively promoting ISIS in Syria and Iraq via social media.

 

 http://www.rappler.com/nation/78030-united-nations-officials-no-evidence-isis-philippines

WE TOLD YOU SO | AFP says UN report of 'No ISIS in PH' boosts its claim ever since

From InterAksyon (Dec 14): WE TOLD YOU SO | AFP says UN report of 'No ISIS in PH' boosts its claim ever since

 
AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla Jr.: UN reports proves our point. InterAksyon.com File

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Sunday its point about there being no personalities identified with the Islamic State in the country was bolstered after the release of UN Counter-Terrorism official Jean-Paul Laborde's report.

IS, a group of Islamic extremists, has been sowing terror in its bid to set up a caliphate, seizing and occupying territories in Syria and Iraq, and killing non-believers.

“As the government has been saying all along, there is no ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria) presence here in the country],” said Col. Resituto Padilla, spokesman of the AFP.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) also continues to play down threats from ISIS in the face of supposed intelligence reports about the presence of foreign terrorists with possible ISIS links.

The ISIS issue in the country shot to the headlines when former President Fidel Ramos talked about the reports of some 100 Filipinos allegedly joining IS in Syria and Iraq. Later, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte also made public intelligence on recruitment activities by unknown people of young Muslims to lure them to join ISIS.

This was followed by a  mayor in Basilan claiming an alleged ISIS recruitment effort in some parts of the province.

Adding to the intrigue, the Bangsamoro Moro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) posted video footage on the Internet where they pledged allegiance to ISIS.

Through all these, the military and police dismissed the “intelligence reports” as a farce and the videos as “mere propaganda” by the BIFF and ASG, both of which coddle some members of the Jemaah Islamiyah. But, the military admitted, the BIFF and ASG, as well as three other groups are prone to ISIS influence such as the Al-Khobar Group and Kilafa Islamiyah.

According to Padilla, the UN counter-terrorism body has asked the government to boost security measures against the entry of foreign terrorists.

The UN, he said, had lauded Philippine efforts to prevent the spread of terrorism by adopting the Human Security Act, and the AMLA (Anti-Money Laundering Act).

The enactment of the Bangsamaro Basic Law (BBL) will also help prevent the entry of terror groups such as ISIS, Padilla said.

“The government continues to explore other means by which we can strengthen the fight against terrorism and among these is to ensure continuous social and economic developments to move forward and that the government is moving to encourage everyone to take in the BBL process,” he said.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101156/we-told-you-so--afp-says-un-report-of-no-isis-in-ph-boosts-its-claim-ever-since

House panel head mulls scrapping ‘questionable’ provisions in Bangsamoro law

From GMA News (Dec 14): House panel head mulls scrapping ‘questionable’ provisions in Bangsamoro law

The chair of the committee deliberating on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is considering scrapping some of the provisions delegating the duties of constitutional bodies to the porposed political entity because of the constitutional issues raised against them.

 

In particular, Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez believes the provisions in the Bangsamoro bill mandating the creation of the Bangsamoro Civil Service Office, audit body and human rights commission should be removed because they might diminish the inherent power of the existing constitutional bodies.

 

“That’s my position. I don’t know how the other members will decide… but as a lawyer, I see there’s a valid reason to question these provisions after hearing the side of COA (Commission on Audit), CSC (Civil Service Commission), and the Ombudsman,” he said in an interview over dzBB radio Sunday.

 

During deliberations on House Bill 4994, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales expressed apprehension about the provisions on the creation of certain agencies in the Bangsamoro, saying these might diminish the power of the constitutional bodies of the national government.

 

Among the provisions opposed by Morales, a retired Supreme Court associate justice, was Section 2 (8) Article 5 of the BBL which states that “the Bangsamoro Government shall have primary disciplinary authority over its own officials and employees”.

 

"We believe that this diminishes the Ombudsman's constitutional power to investigate any act or omission of any public official, employee, office or agency as it divests the Ombudsman's powers to investigate elective and appointive officials of the Bangsmoro government,” she said in a position paper submitted to the House panel.

 

The COA and CSC have expressed similar views in committee hearings. 

 

Rodriguez said the panel needs to resolve the constitutional issues regarding the Bangsamoro bill “because it will be embarrassing if we approve certain provisions which the Supreme Court will find to be unconstitutional.”

 

“It’s hard to delegate the duties of constitutional bodies to another agency. The constitution is clear that there’s only one Comelec (Commission on Elections), COA, CSC, Ombudsman, Commission on Human Rights,” he said. 

 

No diminished powers

 

According to the primer on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the provisions contained in the Annex on Power Sharing will not diminish the powers granted to constitutional bodies since the Bangsamoro government’s powers over the same subject matters are without prejudice to the agencies’ authority.

 

“In the exercise of the concurrent power over human rights and humanitarian protection and promotion, the Bangsamoro government’s human rights body will work cooperatively with the national Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Notably, this is the on-going arrangement between the current Regional Human Rights Commission in the ARMM and the CHR,” the primer read.

 

“Likewise, the creation of their own auditing bodies and own civil service code are expressly without prejudice to the authorities of the national Civil Service Commission and the national Commission on Audit,” it added.

 

Despite the constitutional issues surrounding the Bangsamoro bill, Rodriguez said there remains to be “overwhelming support” for the proposal, which seeks to formalize the creation of a new political entity that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. 

 

“There’s overwhelming support not just in the envisioned core territory of the Bangsamoro, but even in the areas outside. The people in Mindanao believe that if lasting peace is achieved in the region through the BBL and its proper implementation, then the cities and provinces nearby also stand to benefit from it,” he said. 

 

Rodriguez is targeting the passage of the Bangsamoro bill on third and final reading at the House before the end of March 2015.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/392546/news/nation/house-panel-head-mulls-scrapping-questionable-provisions-in-bangsamoro-law

US envoy brands Chinese sea actions ‘alarming’

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 14): US envoy brands Chinese sea actions ‘alarming’

The US government reaffirmed its willingness to help solve the worsening row on the South China Sea, United States ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg said even as he  added China’s behavior in the maritime territorial rift is “very alarming.”

In an ambush interview last Friday during the handing of an award to Coca-Cola Philippines, Goldberg said the US government is very much concerned about the aggressiveness of China in building structures in the disputed islets in the sea.

“For the nth time, we will affirm that we are supporting all means of legal and diplomatic remedies to end the row in that part of the sea. We do support the Philippines’ claim to bring this issue to Unclos (United Nations Commission on the Law of the Sea). However, the behavior of China is very alarming,” Goldberg told The Daily Tribune in the interview.

Although the 58-year-old ambassador didn’t elaborate what he meant of “alarming,” China had recently taken moves that raised concerns within the region such as the sending of its biggest nuclear-powered warship to patrol the area as early as April 2013; the renaming of some islets; and coming up with a new map wherein the disputed islets are now shown officially part of China.

Goldberg also appealed to China to stop its provocative remarks about the islands as these statements don’t help in resolving the issue on West Philippine Sea. The sea is still officially called South China Sea and was just given a new unofficial name to soften China’s rigid claim to the islets.

The ambassador said there is no better way to solve the row at the West Philippine Sea than letting the UNCLOS decide which among China, the Philippines and four other claimants really own the islets.

“The most concerning issue is the alarming behavior of China,” Goldberg reiterated. The disputed islets, collectively called Pagasa or Spratlys by the Philippines, are also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan.

Several text inquires were sent to Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman assistant secretary Charles Jose regarding the next move of the Philippines to intensify its claim on the islets but he didn’t reply.

Jose was quoted in earlier reports that the country will answer in an oral argument in The Hague, Netherlands some questions regarding the dispute.

Since the dispute began, China has already been engaged in three naval standoffs with Vietnam. The encounters resulted in deaths of several Vietnamese sailors. No military encounter has so far occurred between the Philippines and China.

Many observers said the disputed islets and islands have vast oil deposits, thus making it attractive for all claimants to strengthen their claim in the areas.

The government earlier shrugged off criticisms from China after Beijing slammed the Philippines for challenging its territorial claims in international courts, in a dispute over resource-rich waters.

Jose denied Manila was taking its complaint to a UN tribunal as a way to put China under foreign pressure.

“Our position is that arbitration is the durable solution,” Jose said.

The Philippines infuriated China when it filed a formal complaint to the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague in March asking it to rule on China’s claims over most of the South China Sea.

China refused to recognize the process and has until next week to reply to the government’s complaint.

Jose said China’s decision not to participate would not affect proceedings and the tribunal may decide the case by “early 2016”.

“We take note that China has officially stated its position on the matter of arbitration... We also note the points raised in the (Chinese) paper,” he said.

“Its underlying goal is not... to seek peaceful settlement of the South China Sea issue, but rather, by resorting to arbitration, to put political pressure on China,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in the paper published by the official Xinhua news agency.

China’s claims over the South China Sea conflict with the territorial claims of the Philippines as well as Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Just before the UN complaint was filed, Chinese ships tried to chase away a Philippine ship on a resupply mission to Filipino soldiers stationed on a marooned ship serving as an outpost in the disputed waters.

The South China Sea, a major sea lane and fishing ground, which is believed to hold vast mineral resources, has become a flashpoint for maritime territorial tensions.

In recent years, the Philippines has filed repeated diplomatic protests over what it sees as Chinese attempts to strengthen its claim to the disputed waters.

China and members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), meanwhile, were urged to build a community of common destiny with strategic mutual trust to meet the supreme interests of all parties, experts from both sides said at the ASEAN Development Forum 2014 held here on Saturday.

Wilfrido Villacorta, former deputy secretary general of ASEAN and former Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative to ASEAN, said.

“We aspire to serve as each other’s catalyst in bringing about better quality of life for our peoples and in contributing to peace and prosperity in our whole region,” he said.

As the university fellow and full professor of political science and international relations in De La Salle University in Manila, Villacorta also said the formation of the ASEAN Dream complements the Chinese Dream.

ASEAN neighbors hope that China will support and even act as a catalyst to the integration of the ASEAN, and of all the ecnonomies in the region, China has the wherewithal to play this facilitative role, Villacorta added.

Tao Yitao, vice secretary of the Party Committee of Shenzhen University and director of China Center for Special Economic Zone Research of Shenzhen University, said China and ASEAN share the same Asian culture, which is diversified and comprehensive, paving the way for mutual cooperation and development.

She said the two sides should accept and encourage the development of individual country while resolving the conflicts in order to reach common prosperity.

Keo Chandara, deputy director general of the General Department of Agence Kampuchea Presse in Cambodia, said Cambodia and other ASEAN countries have already voiced their welcome and support to the building of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.

He said China and ASEAN should further enhance mutual understanding and deepen political mutual trust and also expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges so as to contribute to the development of China-ASEAN relations, particularly deepening China- ASEAN strategic partnership.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/us-envoy-brands-chinese-sea-actions-alarming

South Korea to deliver 2 fighter jets next year

From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (Dec 14): South Korea to deliver 2 fighter jets next year

The Philippines expects delivery of two of the 12 lead-in fighter trainer jets it acquired from South Korea in December next year.

“The projected schedule is December of next year for the first two (jets),” President Aquino told reporters on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea commemorative summit last Friday.

“We are getting 12 of them. (Delivery) will be finished by 2017,” he added.

Aquino noted the Philippines last had fighter aircraft in 2005, the year the Air Force decommissioned its vanguard F-5 jet fighters after guarding the national airspace for 40 years.

The F-5 fighters that patrolled Philippine territories in the West Philippine Sea were retired after officials declared they were too old and too costly to maintain.

The decommissioning rendered the Philippines practically defenseless against external threats and depleted the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), then considered as one of the strongest in the region.

The Philippines has no fighter aircraft in its hangar and is making do with decades-old air assets to secure its territories.

Aquino said the FA-50s would boost the Air Force’s ability to monitor the country’s territory and enable Filipino pilots to retain their skills.

He said it takes about four to eight hours before the country’s “very ancient planes” like the Nomad and Islander can reach their mission areas.

“For example, if you want to check on something, this is a jet, it gets there quick,” the President said.

“You are trained to plot using its radar, guide its air controllers. We may lose all these abilities. The purpose of these (jets) is to retain those abilities,” he added.

Last March, the Philippines and Korea Aerospace Industries signed a contract for the purchase of 12 lead-in fighter trainer jets worth P18.9 billion.

The project is the biggest item in the military’s upgrade program and seeks to improve the military’s territorial defense capabilities.

China pressure

Aquino, however, is mum on reports that China tried to block the sale of the jets to the Philippines, one of its rivals in the West Philippine Sea dispute.

Aquino said China’s protest was not coursed through him so he has to go back to what he read in the newspapers and intelligence reports.

“Well, that was several months ago. I’ll have to Google search the particular story. But I assume there is such pressure,” the President said.

“They key operative word is ‘I assume.’ The protest was not coursed through me,” he added.

Aquino nevertheless cited media reports stating that South Korea has decided to push through with the sale.

“I think I read it in our media that Korea has responded to the protest. I’m sorry I don’t remember the response: ‘but at the end of the day, there is transaction between two allies and shouldn’t be objected to.’ I might be paraphrasing but they didn’t agree to the request to stop the sale,” he said.

Earlier newspaper reports claimed China had asked South Korea to abort the sale of the FA-50 jets to the Philippines and the donation of a corvette warship to the Philippine Navy.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/12/14/14/south-korea-deliver-2-fighter-jets-next-year

Bid opening for DND-CASA program reset for Jan. 14

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): Bid opening for DND-CASA program reset for Jan. 14

The Department of National Defense (DND) has announced in a supplemental bid bulletin that bid submission and opening for its PhP4,968,000,000 close-air support aircraft (CASA) project has been reset for Jan. 14, 2015 from the original schedule of Jan. 7.

No reasons were given for the reset, which was posted on the supplemental bid bulletin at the DND website.

Bid opening and submission will be held at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee Conference Room, Basement Right Wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City at 10 a.m.

The DND is planning to acquire six CAS aircraft to replace or beef up the Philippine Air Force's existing Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" turboprop attack planes.

CAS refers to capability to provide air support to infantry and naval units in contact with the enemy.

Funding for this weapon system will be sourced from the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

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.

The CAS aircraft must be used by the countries offering and manufacturing them.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=716039

PHL hails Vietnam backing on its arbitration case against China

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): PHL hails Vietnam backing on its arbitration case against China

The Philippines on Sunday lauded Vietnam’s backing for its arbitration case against China when it submitted its position before a Netherlands-based arbitral tribunal where Manila is questioning the legality of Beijing’s claim over nearly the entire South China Sea.

In their position, Vietnam declared that the tribunal has jurisdiction over the Philippines’ case, and by doing so, recognizes the arbitration process, which China is strongly opposing.

Vietnam also objected to China’s nine-dash line claim – a tongue-shaped encirclement that covers almost all of the resource-rich waters - and its actions that undermine the claims of its smaller Asian neighbors.

“The Vietnamese position is helpful in terms of promoting the rule of law and in finding peaceful and nonviolent solutions to the South China Sea claims based on international law, including United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,” a Foreign Affairs statement said. “This promotes peace and stability in our region."

China had beefed up its military and paramilitary presence in the waters and have embarked on several reclamation activities in contested features, stoking tensions anew in the South China Sea.

Beijing’s activities have alarmed foreign governments like the United States and Japan.

An infuriated China immediately castigated Vietnam for its legal move, which contradicts its position on the disputes. China has repeatedly said that it will not join the arbitration and maintains its “indisputable” sovereignty over the waters, where Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan are also claimants.

Manila said Vietnam’s move was “not wholly unexpected,” adding it has had “close consultations” with Hanoi bilaterally as well as within the Association of South East Asian Nations, where they are both members, on claims and issues on the South China Sea.

“Vietnam naturally seeks to protect its own interests,” it said. “What we understand, however, consistent with our previous discussions, is that the Vietnam's basic position largely accords with ours with regards to the South China Sea.”

 

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=716062

Rebels now abandoning heavy weapons due to lack of ammunition

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): Rebels now abandoning heavy weapons due to lack of ammunition

Lacking sufficient ammunition for their heavy weapons, New People's Army (NPA) rebels operating in the Eastern Mindanao Command area of jurisdiction are now starting to bury and abandoned these firearms.

This was announced by Lt. Gen. Aurelio Baladad after troopers from the 60th Infantry Battalion discovered a huge cache of NPA arms in Sitio Monica, Barangay Nuevo Iloco, Mawab, Compostela Valley last Dec. 6.

The military learned of the location of the rebel arsenal after being tipped off by an NPA surrenderee.

Recovered were:

--Five 60 mm mortar tubes with accessories;

--Three bi-pods, one base plate;

--Two 81 mm rounds;

--80 pieces of blasting caps;

And one rifle grenade.

"The the mortar tubes were buried by NPAs as they are off use to them, because they have no ammunition and especially that they are being pursued by troops," Baladad said.

He added that the surrenderee will likely receive a cash price under the Guns for Peace Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines aside from the livelihood and other assistance from the local government unit of Compostela Valley.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=716074

PHL on right track in campaign against terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): PHL on right track in campaign against terrorism

Despite the announcement of UN counter-terrorism experts that the Philippines is not hosting radical elements of the Islamic States of Iraq and Libya (ISIS), efforts are still underway to ensure that terrorism will not make a foothold in the country.

This was stated by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla Sunday.

He also said that the UN announcement vindicates what government and military officials have been saying all along.

This only shows that the Philippines is going the right path in the campaign against terrorism, Padilla stressed.

"Did not the UN earlier laud the Philippines for taking measures to prevent the spread of terrorism (e.g. adoption of the Human Security Act and Anti-Money Laundering Act). The government continues to explore other means by which we can strengthen the fight against terrorism and among these (steps) is to ensure the development of (the countryside)," he added.

Another step being done is the steady passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which once successfully enacted into law, will spell peace and development, progress in Mindanao, he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=716099

AFP to get much needed boost with graduation of 146 OCS candidates

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): AFP to get much needed boost with graduation of 146 OCS candidates

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday announced that its roster got a much needed boost with the pending graduation of 146 individuals from Officers' Candidate School (OCS) Monday.

This is also very timely considering that the AFP is celebrating its 79 founding anniversary this year, military spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said Sunday.

"These officers are going to help a lot in increasing and strengthening our fight against lawless elements, especially knowing that most of them will be deployed in these areas where (we) are now conducting law enforcement operations," he added.

But more (important) that than, the infusion of fresh young blood into the organization is always part of the dynamics and growing process to strengthen the Armed Forces, " Padilla stressed.

He also said that the OCS like the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is one of the key sources of officers in the AFP.

Recruitment for OCS candidates usually takes place during college.

Padilla added that OCS instructors usually go for candidates, who already have completed their degrees and Reserve Officers' Training Course, and have expressed intentions of joining the AFP.

The AFP spokesperson stressed that OCS is much shorter than those of the PMA as it no longer deals with academic subjects and focuses solely on military training and courses.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=716100

Feature: Army helps secure transport of captured crocodile in Sulu to Zamboanga City

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): Feature: Army helps secure transport of captured crocodile in Sulu to Zamboanga City 

Although government forces have their hands full chasing remnants of the terrorists Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the jungles of Sulu, soldiers are also engaged in civic action work, the latest of which was securing the safe transport of a captured seven-foot long salt crocodile to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional office in Zamboanga City.

Col. Alan Arrojado, commander of the Zamboanga-Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi Task Group of the Western Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, told the Philippines News Agency in a phone interview Sunday that the transfer was a light moment or sidelight of his unit’s intensified combat operations against the Abu Sayyaf.

The salt crocodile was captured by Muslim fishermen in Sitio Sibigtingi, Barangay Simbahan in Pangutaran, Sulu last Nov. 21.

The fishermen brought the mammal to the police station for safekeeping, according to Maj. Edil Aramponi, public affairs officer of Joint Task Force Sulu.

In turn, the police informed the DENR about the capture of the salt crocodile.

It was only over the weekend that the DENR in Sulu asked the help of the Joint Task Force to secure the crocodile while being transported to Zamboanga City.

The ongoing military operations on the island of Sulu have forced the Abu Sayyaf terrorists to be on the run all the time.

It had also resulted in the escape last week of Swiss national Lorenzo Vinciguerra, who was held captive by the Abu Sayyaf for over two years in Sulu.

Vinciguerra dashed to freedom after he killed his lone guard in a hand-to-hand combat at the height of the simultaneous ground and air assault by government forces.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=10&sid=&nid=10&rid=716116

Army remind commuters to avoid traveling along Maguindanao highway at night

From the Manila Times (Dec 14): Army remind commuters to avoid traveling along Maguindanao highway at night

The military in Maguindanao has urged the commuters to refrain from cruising the highway linking Cotabato City-Isulan in Sultan Kudarat at night.

This after the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) repeatedly harassed Army positions along the national highway.

“The BIFF wanted to retaliate the death of its two companions,” Capt. Joanne Petinglay, chief of the 6th Infantry Division public affairs unit, said of the strafing incident by two BIFF members in the boundary of Guindulungan and Datu Saudi Ampatuan in Maguindanao Friday.

Two BIFF members were killed after they engaged government forces securing portions of the highway in a running gun battle at past 5 p.m.

Capt. Petinglay identified the slain BIFF as Jonex Unti and Titik Lupong who shoot it out with elements of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Guindulungan, Maguinanao.

Hours later, suspected BIFF retaliated by firing two rifle grenades toward an Army detachment in Barangay Ilian, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

About 30 minutes later, another rifle grenade landed beside the detachment of 21st Mechanized Company in Barangay Bagan, Guindulungan, Maguinanao.

Nobody was hurt in grenade attacks.

Capt. Petinglay said it would be safe for commuters to travel at day time but never at night time.

”Normally the BIFF retaliate every time they suffer losses in previous encounters,” Petinglay said of the bandit group.

The clash that left two BIFF rebels wounded came hours after six gunmen on board motorcycles fired on the vehicles of former Datu Salibo Mayor Akmad Ampatuan, wounding him and five of his companions.

Ampatuan has earlier decided to turn state witness on the Maguindanao massacre that involved his uncle, former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr.

Petinglay said 6th ID chief Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan has ordered the deployment of foot soldiers to provide road security along the Cotabato-Isulan highway.

The BIFF is composed of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) guerrillas turned ragtag bandits engaged in ‘hit and run’ attacks against soldiers, bombings, extortion and kidnapping.

http://www.manilatimes.net/breaking_news/army-remind-commuters-avoid-traveling-along-maguindanao-highway-night/

President Aquino pursuing AFP modernization towards more effective military

From Ang Malaya (Dec 14): President Aquino pursuing AFP modernization towards more effective military

Philippine Air Force will start receiving FA-50 “Fighting Eagle” from Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) next year, President Benigno S. Aquino III confirms upon returning from South Korea Friday, December 12.

Aquino said that while in South Korea, Korea Aerospace Industries showed one FA-50 to him, the same model PAF will have.

“Sa harap nga po ng modernong mga pasilidad at kagamitan na ito ng ibang bansa, lalo pa tayong ginaganahang magpursige sa pagtupad ng ating hangarin: ang itaguyod ang maaasahang kasundaluhan, tungo sa mas epektibong serbisyo sa sambayanang Pilipino,” Aquino said in his arrival statement.

Department of National Defense said earlier that in 2016 six out of twelve ordered Fighting Eagles will be commissioned. These jets will act as Philippines’ interim fighter until PAF pilots get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and the government allocates money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.

FA-50 can load up to 4.5 tons of weapons and has a wide-range of armament system. It has a 20 mm three-barrel gun that can fire at extremely high rate internally installed. It can be fitted with AIM-9 Sidewinder, a short-range air-to-air missile; AGM-65, an air-to-surface missile designed for close-air support missions; cluster bombs and rocket launchers.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/12/14/6705-president-aquino-confirms-2015-delivery-of-two-fa-50s

NPA starts dumping heavy wepons

From Ang Malaya (Dec 14): NPA starts dumping heavy wepons

New People’s Army operating withing the jurisdiction of Eastern Mindanao Command are now dumping their heavy weapons because of insufficient ammunition. Lt. Gen. Aurelio Baladad said that 60th Infantry Battalion found number of armaments belonging to NPA after rebels who surrendered confessed the location where they bury the arms.

Among the recovered armaments were five 60 mm mortar tubes with accessories; three bi-pods, one base plate; two 81 mm rounds and 80 pieces of blasting caps.

“The the mortar tubes were buried by NPAs as they are off use to them, because they have no ammunition and especially that they are being pursued by troops,” Baladad said.

NPA rebels who choose to surrender are receiving cash grants, livelihood and other assistance under the Guns for Peace Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/12/14/6717-npa-starts-dumping-heavy-wepons

Vietnam's sea row arbitration case vs China boosts peace: Manila

From InterAksyon (Dec 14): Vietnam's sea row arbitration case vs China boosts peace: Manila

Vietnam has helped ensure peace in the South China Sea dispute with Beijing by following the Philippines in seeking UN arbitration, Manila said, despite the fact that Beijing has refused to take part.

Beijing claims almost the entire energy-rich South China Sea but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan also have claims. Only Brunei has not occupied and garrisoned territory in the potential flashpoint in the region.

Vietnam on Thursday submitted its position to a UN arbitration tribunal initiated by the Philippines over the festering dispute. China called on Vietnam to respect its sovereignty and has refused UN arbitration.

"The Vietnamese position is helpful in terms of promoting the rule of law and in finding peaceful and nonviolent solutions to the South China Sea claims based on international law," the Philippine Foreign Ministry said.

"...This promotes peace and stability in our region."

China, Vietnam and the Philippines are signatories to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, an international agreement that grants the right to explore and exploit resources within 200 nautical miles of a state's shore. Both Hanoi and Manila say Beijing is extending beyond the limit.

In May, China placed its largest mobile oil rig close to Vietnam's coast in the Paracel islands that prompted angry protests in Hanoi against Chinese business interests. At the same time, Beijing began reclamation in the Spratly islands and appeared to be building airstrips in the area.

Beijing has also seized control of Scarborough Shoal near the Philippines' main island of Luzon and chased civilian ships delivering supplies to Philippine-held Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratlys.

The Philippines and Vietnam appear to be ending decades of distrust. Last year, the two sides held a first-ever navy-to-navy talks and last month, Hanoi displayed its two most powerful missile-guided stealth frigates in Manila during a port call. The two states will hold the first strategic defense dialogue early next year.

"Vietnam's legal opinion puts political weight on the Philippine legal case," Professor Rommel Banlaoi, a security analyst, said on television.

"What Vietnam did was in fact supporting, reaffirming and even rallying behind the Philippine legal action and that's good for our national interest."

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101151/vietnams-sea-row-arbitration-case-vs-china-boosts-peace-manila

AFP deploying 146 newly trained young officers to battlefronts

From InterAksyon (Dec 14): AFP deploying 146 newly trained young officers to battlefronts



Military Personnel or MPs are seen in file photo in a parade rehearsal at Camp Aguinaldo, ahead of the Dec. 21 AFP anniversary, which this year is being marked on Dec. 18. INTERAKSYON.COM FILE

 At least 146 new young officers who finished 1-2 years of military schooling and training under the Officer Candidate Course (OCS) program will soon be deployed to the battlefronts after the military formally accepts them into its fold.

Their graduation precedes the 79th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that will be observed on December 18 at Camp Aguinaldo, or three days ahead of the actual anniversary on Dec. 21, in order to give way to the schedule of the Commander-in-Chief, President Benigno Aquino III, who will be the main guest of honor.

Military spokesman Colonel Restituo Padilla said the new graduates of the OCS “are going to help a lot in increasing and strengthening our fight against lawless elements, especially knowing that they will mostly be deployed in areas where we are now conducting law enforcement operations.” 
B
ut more than that, he added, "the infusion of fresh young blood into the organization is always part of the dynamics and growing process to strengthen the Armed Forces.”

The AFP OCS program in the major branches of service – Army, Air Force and Navy/Marines – is intended to fill up the shortage of officers. The AFP has recruited most of its officers from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

“The OCS is among the sources for new officers in the rank, besides the PMA and Reserve Officer Training Course,” Padilla said.

The OCS can only accept young professionals or those who already hold college diplomas from a minimum of 4-year course or college degree. Certain candidates who likewise finished college and had completed the ROTC may also see their stint at the OCS shortened to one year.

Some former PMA cadets who were not able to graduate because they were kicked out or opted to get out from the corps, but really want to pursue their dream of becoming military officers, are allowed to enter the OCS.

The PAF-OCS was in the news recently when 21 men, including an officer from Batch 2014, were involved in hazing that sent two young members of the class to hospital.  An investigating team recommended the dismissal of 9 of those involved; the officer from Batch 2014 and 12 others are still under investigation.

PAF spokesman Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said the 12 OCS members will not graduate this year.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101154/afp-deploying-146-newly-trained-young-officers-to-battlefronts

4 NPA rebels yield to military in Bukidnon province

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Dec 14): 4 NPA rebels yield to military in Bukidnon province

Four communist rebels have surrendered to the military in southern Philippines in what officials claimed is a victory against the insurgency in the restive region.

The Eastern Mindanao Command said among those who surrendered to the 68th Infantry Battalion in Bukidnon’s San Fernando town was a squad leader of the New People’s Army which has been fighting for decades now for a separate state in the country.

It identified the rebel leader as Ben Indagnay and his followers Boyno Maylan, Jomar Panganlagan and Janice Vallero, who was a medic for the NPA. They surrendered three rifles and a pistol.

The military said the rebels surrendered because of hardship and abuse by their senior cadres and the four also admitted that they were moved by the good deeds and display of sincerity by Bayanihan Teams of 68th Infantry Battalion – the same statement the Eastern Mindanao Command makes every time rebels surrender.

It said the rebels will receive compensation for all the weapons they surrendered to the military and a set of government financial aid to allow them to start a new life with their families.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/4-npa-rebels-yield-to-military-in.html

Suspect in Belmonte ambush arrested; denies allegations

From MindaNews (Dec 14): Suspect in Belmonte ambush arrested; denies allegations

LAGUINDINGAN, Misamis Oriental -- Authorities arrested on Saturday one of the suspects in the December 11 ambush-slay attempt on Iligan’s lone representative to Congress, Vicente “Varf” Belmonte, after residents informed officials of their presence in their village.

Senior Police officer 4 Gabino Sambaan Jr., Laguindingan police investigator said Dominador Tumala of Osmena town, Zamboanga del Norte, was arrested after he asked for water and food at a sari-sari-store in Sitio Pagangon in Barangay Gasi at around 4:30 a.m. Saturday. But the 60-year old Tumala denied the allegations.

Tumala was arrested some 40 hours after gunmen ambushed the two-vehicle convoy of Belmonte who had just arrived in Laguindingan Airport from Manila and was on his way home to Iligan City on Thursday when gunmen on board a Mitsubishi L300 van and other suspects hiding on the side of the Laguindingan AIprort Access Road fired at Belmonte’s convoy at around 2 p.m. Three of his escorts were killed while three others were injured, including Belmonte, who sustained minor injuries.

A manhunt is still ongoing for Tamula’s two companions who are belived to be hiding somewhere in farmlands with thick undergrowth in Barangay Gasi.



VILLAGE CURIOSITY. Two residents of Sitio Pagangon, Barangay Gasi in Laguindingan town, Misamis Oriental climb a tree on Dec. 13, 2014 to get a better view of the police and military manhunt against suspects in the December 11 ambush- slay attempt on Iligan’s lone representative to Congress, Vicente Belmonte, Jr. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

PNP Region 10  director Chief Superintendent Isagani Genabe Jr., and top officials of the National Bureau of Investigation  (NBI) in Northern Mindanao brought Tumala to Iligan City immediately after his arrest.

NBI Iligan chief Alex Caburnay said Belmonte was able to identify Tumala as one of the M16-wielding gunmen who waylaid his convoy as they left for Iligan City last Thursday.

“Rep. Belmonte positively identified Tumala as the one who shot his aides in the other vehicle,” Caburnay said.

Investigators said Belmonte was able to survive by ducking under the hood in his Mazda pick-up vehicle.

Belmonte, who is completing his third term as Representative and is running for mayor in 2016 pointed to politics as the motive behind the ambush.

But police said they are not drawing any conclusion as investigation is still ongoing.

Senior Police officer 4 Gabino Sambaan Jr., Laguindingan police investigator said Tumala admitted he was a former member of the New People’s Army but denied he was involved in the attack on Belmonte.

Sambaan said Tamula told him he was going to Laguindingan Airport to fetch someone when he lost his way and found himself in Barangay Gasi.

Found in his wallet was a torn cedula or Residence Certificate and P1,200 in cash.

The store owner, narrated by Sambaan, told us she suspected something was wrong when Tumala, who asked for a glass of water, appeared disheveled.

Her suspicion grew when Tumala drank five glasses of water,” Sambaan narrated.

Sambaan said that at around this time, the entire town of Laguindingan, which has a population of 21,000, was already aware  that some of the suspects in the ambush might have been hiding in Barangay Gasi.

He said the store owner identified as a certain Enra offered Tumala a cup of coffee while she instructed  her nephew to inform the soldiers and police manning a nearby outpost in Sitio Pagangon.



SEARCHING FOR SUSPECTS. Army soldiers search the village of Pagango in Barangay Gasi, Laguindingan town where two more suspects in the ambush-slay attempt on Iligan lawmaker Vicente Belmonte are believed to be hiding. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

A team of soldiers, policemen and tanods went to Enra’s store and arrested Tumala.

Supt. Rolando Estura, chief of the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion said Belmonte’s assailants in the van may have left Tumala and his two companions who were on the roadside in their haste to escape.

Estura said Tumala and his two companions were left with no recourse but try to escape on foot toward Sitio Liberty. The  L300 van was  found burned in Sitio Liberty.

Misamis Oriental Administrator Edmundo Pacamalan Jr., said barangay officials reported that the suspects were seen walking and asking for directions to Sitio Liberty.

“The barangay officials and residents insisted the suspects were hiding in their village. That is why we set up outposts around it,” Pacamalan said.

After Tumala’s arrest, Estura said they are continuing their search for the two remaining suspects.

Estura said the manhunt is concentrated on some 50 hectares of farmlands where there were four sightings of the suspects by villagers Saturday.

Hernan, a resident of Barangay Gasi said  he saw a man with a backpack resting in an abandoned house while he was looking for his cow in Sitio Pagangon  around 3 p.m. Saturday.

He said the man walked away fast, though limping, when he saw him coming.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/12/14/suspect-in-belmonte-ambush-arrested-denies-allegations/