From the Manila Times (Mar 19): Army captain joined Abu Sayyaf? AFP probes case
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is verifying reports that a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who was reportedly killed by a fellow bandit was the same Philippine Army captain who went absent without official leave (AWOL) in 2008.
“We are validating reports regarding the killing of Nazmil Ali. And we are also verifying a report that he was indeed the former Army Capt. Khalid Sali who went AWOL in 2008, or seven years ago,” Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, chief of the AFP Public Affairs Office, said on Wednesday.
The reports said Sali was killed during a quarrel by Akil, a nephew of ASG leader Rafullan Sahiron alias Commander Putol, on Monday afternoon in Kabuntakas in Sulu province.
A source at Camp Aguinaldo, the military’s main headquarters in Quezon City, said Sali changed his name to Nazmil Ali when he joined the bandit group.
He was a former member of the Moro National Liberation Front before he and other MNLF fighters were integrated into the AFP and the Philippine National Police after completion of peace talks between the separatist group and the government.
The source said that before Sali went Awol, he was assigned to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao.
He was reportedly a nephew of current MNLF Sulu Vice Chairman for Military Affairs Tahir Sali.
Sali was immediately buried, according to a civilian informant from Kabuntakas.
http://www.manilatimes.net/army-captain-joined-abu-sayyaf-afp-probes-case/170383/
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
4 NPA rebels nabbed
From the Philippine Star (Mar 19): 4 NPA rebels nabbed
Government operatives have arrested four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Bukidnon and Compostela Valley.
Henry Omandam, alias Empoy, 19; Vergel Pitogo, alias Marmar, 23; and a 16-year-old, who were suspected of burning at least seven trucks in Quezon, Bukidnon were nabbed on Tuesday in Barangay Palacapao.
Landmines, ammunition for an M203 grenade launcher and t-shirts with NPA logos were seized from the rebels.
Another NPA guerrilla was captured after a 40-minute gunfight with members of the 25th Infantry Battalion in Barangay New Manay in Maragusan, Compostela Valley on Monday.
Government troops recovered an M16 rifle, four improvised landmines, a 500-meter electrical wire, 18 backpacks, 13 pairs of rain boots, medical and dental paraphernalia and assorted personal belongings.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/03/19/1435038/4-npa-rebels-nabbed
Government operatives have arrested four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Bukidnon and Compostela Valley.
Henry Omandam, alias Empoy, 19; Vergel Pitogo, alias Marmar, 23; and a 16-year-old, who were suspected of burning at least seven trucks in Quezon, Bukidnon were nabbed on Tuesday in Barangay Palacapao.
Landmines, ammunition for an M203 grenade launcher and t-shirts with NPA logos were seized from the rebels.
Another NPA guerrilla was captured after a 40-minute gunfight with members of the 25th Infantry Battalion in Barangay New Manay in Maragusan, Compostela Valley on Monday.
Government troops recovered an M16 rifle, four improvised landmines, a 500-meter electrical wire, 18 backpacks, 13 pairs of rain boots, medical and dental paraphernalia and assorted personal belongings.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/03/19/1435038/4-npa-rebels-nabbed
No US participation in Exodus — Goldberg
From the Philippine Star (Mar 19): No US participation in Exodus — Goldberg
US Ambassador Philip Goldberg File photo
US forces did not participate in the operation to capture top terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir or Marwan in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg reiterated.
“We weren’t involved in the planning, we weren’t involved in the execution,” Goldberg told The STAR the other night, referring to the Jan. 25 operation code-named Exodus.
Goldberg gave the statement hours after the Senate released its report on the Mamasapano raid that neutralized Marwan but also led to the massacre of 44 police Special Action Force (SAF) commandos.
The ambassador confirmed that Marwan was killed in the operation, based on DNA tests conducted by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario also said he was standing by his statement that Exodus was a “100 percent” Philippine operation.
Del Rosario told The STAR that the Americans seen assisting in bringing wounded SAF to safety did not engage in combat but were part of a medical evacuation team. He also said there were no US drones monitoring Exodus.
About six Americans reportedly at the command center with the SAF chief at the time, Director Getulio Napeñas, during Exodus were private contractors, Del Rosario also said.
A report in The Washington Post said US “contract personnel” helped evacuate SAF casualties. The report also quoted a Pentagon spokesman, Marine Lt. Col. Jeffrey Pool, as saying the operation “was planned and executed by Philippine authorities.”
Pool confirmed in an e-mail sent to the paper that American “contract personnel” assigned to a US counterterrorism task force had helped evacuate SAF casualties on Jan. 25.
The paper quoted State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki as echoing Pool’s statement that the SAF mission to capture three suspected terrorists wanted by the Philippine and US governments was “planned and carried out by Philippine authorities.”
The Post story is about the results of the Senate investigation into Exodus.
Rep. Carlos Zarate, who alerted The STAR to the story, said by “contract personnel,” Pool was referring to military contractors who are former US servicemen hired principally by the Department of Defense and State Department to protect diplomats, diplomatic posts and supply runs in Iraq and Afghanistan.
He recalled a 2007 incident in Baghdad wherein US military contractors belonging to security firm Blackwater who were guarding American diplomats were involved in a firefight that left 17 Iraqi civilians dead.
A US jury has convicted three Blackwater personnel of manslaughter in connection with the case. The security firm has since changed its name.
Zarate said the US engaged military contractors in Mamasapano apparently to skirt the two countries’ Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and evade responsibility in case contracted personnel engage in illegal activities.
He said the VFA requires that participants in joint military exercises here should be US organic military personnel.
Zarate said the government should investigate the use of military contractors and their accountability and that of US agencies that hire them.
The Washington Post report said the result of the Senate inquiry “contradicts past statements from US officials that Americans played no role in the operation except to help evacuate wounded Philippine police officers from a prolonged gun battle with Islamist rebels on the island of Mindanao.”
Sen. Grace Poe, who presided over the Senate probe, said the SAF raid “was not 100 percent Filipino planned and implemented” based on the testimony of Napeñas, who admitted the role played by the Americans in Mamasapano.
“They provided equipment, training and intelligence,” she said.
She identified one of the Americans who worked with Napeñas as a certain Al Katz.
Goldberg said providing equipment and training to Philippine troops was part of the mandate of US forces when they were invited by the Philippine government to return to the country in 2002 amid an Abu Sayyaf kidnapping spree. Goldberg declined to discuss intelligence operations or go into details.
Hundreds of US forces have since been stationed on rotation in Zamboanga City under the US Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. JSOTF-P was dismantled several weeks ago, as scheduled.
Supt. Michael John Mangahis, in a sworn statement given to the police Board of Inquiry (BOI), said he saw six Americans in Napeñas’ command post on the night of Jan. 24.
The following day, Mangahis said he saw the same Americans, with their own helicopter, helping evacuate wounded SAF troopers.
The Americans provided “real-time information on the actual movements of friendly and enemy forces,” the BOI report said.
It said the information enabled the team that assaulted Marwan’s hideout to elude large formations of Muslim guerrillas, avoiding further casualties.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang meanwhile confirmed the indirect involvement of Americans in Mamasapano.
Catapang said that one of the six Americans involved in Oplan Exodus had asked Army 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan to provide artillery support to the embattled SAF commandos.
Pangilinan, however, rebuffed the American in the absence of the needed grid coordinates.
The Americans’ involvement in Exodus was confined to providing surveillance through television monitors at the Army Brigade headquarters in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.
The source, who is privy to the probe, said agents want to establish the exact participation of those involved.
“It will not be easy. It would be challenging to identify and establish who killed whom,” the source said, adding that Muslim rebels and civilians were also killed.
The NBI is encouraging families of the slain SAF and civilians to formally file complaints.
“They can come here any time. This is part of the thrust to show both sides that we are going to be fair,” the source said.
A five-year-old girl, a farmer who was about to go to the market and four men sleeping in a mosque were among those killed.
In a recent site inspection in Mamasapano, NBI agents learned that there was no mobile phone signal within “the box” where most of the SAF members were killed by gunmen of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and a private armed group.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/03/19/1435196/no-us-participation-exodus-goldberg
US Ambassador Philip Goldberg File photo
US forces did not participate in the operation to capture top terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir or Marwan in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg reiterated.
“We weren’t involved in the planning, we weren’t involved in the execution,” Goldberg told The STAR the other night, referring to the Jan. 25 operation code-named Exodus.
Goldberg gave the statement hours after the Senate released its report on the Mamasapano raid that neutralized Marwan but also led to the massacre of 44 police Special Action Force (SAF) commandos.
The ambassador confirmed that Marwan was killed in the operation, based on DNA tests conducted by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario also said he was standing by his statement that Exodus was a “100 percent” Philippine operation.
Del Rosario told The STAR that the Americans seen assisting in bringing wounded SAF to safety did not engage in combat but were part of a medical evacuation team. He also said there were no US drones monitoring Exodus.
About six Americans reportedly at the command center with the SAF chief at the time, Director Getulio Napeñas, during Exodus were private contractors, Del Rosario also said.
A report in The Washington Post said US “contract personnel” helped evacuate SAF casualties. The report also quoted a Pentagon spokesman, Marine Lt. Col. Jeffrey Pool, as saying the operation “was planned and executed by Philippine authorities.”
Pool confirmed in an e-mail sent to the paper that American “contract personnel” assigned to a US counterterrorism task force had helped evacuate SAF casualties on Jan. 25.
The paper quoted State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki as echoing Pool’s statement that the SAF mission to capture three suspected terrorists wanted by the Philippine and US governments was “planned and carried out by Philippine authorities.”
The Post story is about the results of the Senate investigation into Exodus.
Rep. Carlos Zarate, who alerted The STAR to the story, said by “contract personnel,” Pool was referring to military contractors who are former US servicemen hired principally by the Department of Defense and State Department to protect diplomats, diplomatic posts and supply runs in Iraq and Afghanistan.
He recalled a 2007 incident in Baghdad wherein US military contractors belonging to security firm Blackwater who were guarding American diplomats were involved in a firefight that left 17 Iraqi civilians dead.
A US jury has convicted three Blackwater personnel of manslaughter in connection with the case. The security firm has since changed its name.
Zarate said the US engaged military contractors in Mamasapano apparently to skirt the two countries’ Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and evade responsibility in case contracted personnel engage in illegal activities.
He said the VFA requires that participants in joint military exercises here should be US organic military personnel.
Zarate said the government should investigate the use of military contractors and their accountability and that of US agencies that hire them.
The Washington Post report said the result of the Senate inquiry “contradicts past statements from US officials that Americans played no role in the operation except to help evacuate wounded Philippine police officers from a prolonged gun battle with Islamist rebels on the island of Mindanao.”
Sen. Grace Poe, who presided over the Senate probe, said the SAF raid “was not 100 percent Filipino planned and implemented” based on the testimony of Napeñas, who admitted the role played by the Americans in Mamasapano.
“They provided equipment, training and intelligence,” she said.
She identified one of the Americans who worked with Napeñas as a certain Al Katz.
Goldberg said providing equipment and training to Philippine troops was part of the mandate of US forces when they were invited by the Philippine government to return to the country in 2002 amid an Abu Sayyaf kidnapping spree. Goldberg declined to discuss intelligence operations or go into details.
Hundreds of US forces have since been stationed on rotation in Zamboanga City under the US Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. JSOTF-P was dismantled several weeks ago, as scheduled.
Supt. Michael John Mangahis, in a sworn statement given to the police Board of Inquiry (BOI), said he saw six Americans in Napeñas’ command post on the night of Jan. 24.
The following day, Mangahis said he saw the same Americans, with their own helicopter, helping evacuate wounded SAF troopers.
The Americans provided “real-time information on the actual movements of friendly and enemy forces,” the BOI report said.
It said the information enabled the team that assaulted Marwan’s hideout to elude large formations of Muslim guerrillas, avoiding further casualties.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang meanwhile confirmed the indirect involvement of Americans in Mamasapano.
Catapang said that one of the six Americans involved in Oplan Exodus had asked Army 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan to provide artillery support to the embattled SAF commandos.
Pangilinan, however, rebuffed the American in the absence of the needed grid coordinates.
The Americans’ involvement in Exodus was confined to providing surveillance through television monitors at the Army Brigade headquarters in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.
Who killed whom?
Meanwhile, at the National Bureau of Investigation, establishing “who killed whom” in the Mamasapano clash is one of the biggest challenges in an ongoing NBI probe, a source said.The source, who is privy to the probe, said agents want to establish the exact participation of those involved.
“It will not be easy. It would be challenging to identify and establish who killed whom,” the source said, adding that Muslim rebels and civilians were also killed.
The NBI is encouraging families of the slain SAF and civilians to formally file complaints.
“They can come here any time. This is part of the thrust to show both sides that we are going to be fair,” the source said.
A five-year-old girl, a farmer who was about to go to the market and four men sleeping in a mosque were among those killed.
In a recent site inspection in Mamasapano, NBI agents learned that there was no mobile phone signal within “the box” where most of the SAF members were killed by gunmen of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and a private armed group.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/03/19/1435196/no-us-participation-exodus-goldberg
Two NPA rebels nabbed in Negros Occidental
From GMA News (Mar 18): Two NPA rebels nabbed in Negros Occidental
Joint forces of the Army and the Philippine National Police on Wednesday captured two suspected members of the New People's Army following an encounter with an armed group in Negros Occidental.
Joint forces of the Army and the Philippine National Police on Wednesday captured two suspected members of the New People's Army following an encounter with an armed group in Negros Occidental.
The captured suspects were identified as Felipe Bolo, 34 and Conrado Sison, 19 who both hail from Sitio Bedio, Brgy Codcod, San Carlos City.
According to the Army, the encounter with the armed group in Sitio Natuyay, Brgy Cod-cod, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental lasted for fifteen minutes.
Recovered after the encounter were five shotguns and a cal. 357 revolver. The suspects were turned over to the San Carlos City PNP for medical check-up and inquest proceedings.
The Army is currently conducting pursuit operations against the other members of the armed group that escaped.
Solon wants equipment check after bullets pierce Kevlar helmets in all-out offensive
From GMA News (Mar 18): Solon wants equipment check after bullets pierce Kevlar helmets in all-out offensive
A former soldier and party-list representative said the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Kevlar equipment have five-year expiration dates that may deem the combat items ineffective amid their all-out offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
A former soldier and party-list representative said the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Kevlar equipment have five-year expiration dates that may deem the combat items ineffective amid their all-out offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
In a report from GMA's “24 Oras” on Wednesday, Magdalo Party-List Rep. Gary Alejano said that Kevlar equipment especially helmets should be regularly checked to ensure the soldier's safety.
“We have to look at or reinvestigate 'yung expiry date ng mga gamit na ito dahil 'yung Kevlar material mayroong expiry date yan. So we have to really know the lifespan of that material kasi it will endanger the troops if indeed na expire na and hindi natin pinapalitan,” Alejano said.
At least six soldiers have been killed in the AFP's ongoing offensive against the BIFF. Two of these soldiers received headshot wounds that went through their Kevlar helmets.
A similar case occurred in the Zamboanga Siege in 2013 where a soldier was killed after he sustained a headshot wound that also went through his kevlar helmet.
[Video report: Kevlar helmet ng mga sundalao, nabubutas ng bala ng matataas na kalibre ng armas]
[Video report: Kevlar helmet ng mga sundalao, nabubutas ng bala ng matataas na kalibre ng armas]
In 2010, the AFP received some 38,000 Kevlar helmets which passed combat efficiency tests in 2013.
Alejano also said that Kevlar helmets are not totally bullet-proof depending on the power of the firearms used and the range of the gunshot.
Still, he said these were extremely helpful in saving lives of soldiers during battle.
“Kasi maraming tropa ang namamatay ng daplis lang sa ulo. Naubusan ng dugo, napaparalyze so malaking tulong ang helmet,” he said.
Army spokesman Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato said it was difficult to balance a Kevlar helmet's efficiency and weight.
“It's a ballistic helmet. Ang ballistic [is good protection] from blast shrapnel and low velocity na mga projectile. Kasi pag gagawin nating talagang makapal na makapal yan [ay masyadong] mabigat hindi ka pa tinamaan casualty ka na kasi masisira leeg mo,” Detoyato said.
Catapang: More ships, planes needed to patrol West Philippine Sea
From GMA News (Mar 19): Catapang: More ships, planes needed to patrol West Philippine Sea
As China continues its reclamation activities in the South China Sea, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang said more planes and ships are needed to patrol the disputed waters and assert Philippine sovereignty.
As China continues its reclamation activities in the South China Sea, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang said more planes and ships are needed to patrol the disputed waters and assert Philippine sovereignty.
In an interview with reporters on Wednesday, Capatang highlighted the imperative of enabling the AFP modernization program to purchase the needed patrol vessels.
The latest surveillance photo of Burgos Reef (Gaven Reef), according to Philippine defense officials, showed that China has built a complex as large as the Mall of Asia in Pasay City – Manila’s biggest shopping mall.
Last week, the Philippines called on China to stop reclamation works in contested areas in the South China Sea, including in areas that Philippine officials say are within Manila's territory.
Asked if more soldiers will be deployed to the areas where reclamation activies are being done, Capatang said: "Hindi naman kailangan magdagdag ng mga sundalo doon."
Instead the Philippine government should continue being vocal against the reclamation, "which the DFA has been doing," Catapang said.
He added that he hopes the arbitration case the Philippines filed against China will soon be resolved.
"It will now be the international community that will help us in our claim for these areas...ano...so yun ang importante dun kasi nga we want the international community to understand our situation," he said.
Earlier this week, the Philippines called on the international community to press for a stop to massive reclamation activities in the South China Sea that could increase tension in the disputed area.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Undersecretary Evan Garcia said at the 17th ASEAN-India Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) held in New Delhi on March 14 that “such unbridled reclamation activity worsens an already sensitive geopolitical situation and raises the specter of increasing militarization.”
The DFA also said that Indian Minister of External Affairs Anil Wadha assured the Philippines "that India will encourage the peaceful resolution of the dispute."
Philippine Navy MPAC ‘Mk III’ to be armed with heavy, light machine guns, surface-to-surface missiles
From Ang Malaya (Mar 18): Philippine Navy MPAC ‘Mk III’ to be armed with heavy, light machine guns, surface-to-surface missiles
Philippine Navy’s three missile-armed Multi-purpose Attack Crafts (MPAC Mk III) will be at least 17 meters long, with waterline length of at least 15 meters.
As per Department of National Defense’s Technical Specifications, these MPACs should have a cruising speed of 40 knots and a maximum speed of 45 knots.
The Department of National Defense also wants these MPACs to have provisions for remote weapon system for 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun M2HB; and missile launch system and respective remote operating consoles inside the craft. MPAC Mk III should also have provisions for two M60/7.62mm Light Machine Gun.
These three MPACs should also be capable of storing 2,000 rounds for 12.7mm, 4,000 rounds for 7.62mm and 10 canisters of surface-to-surface missiles.
Procurement will be through single-stage open competitive bidding. Bid opening will be on April 6. Delivery of the goods should be within 365 calendar days from receipt of Notice to Proceed or the date provided in the NTP. Delivery will be at Captain Moya Boat Landing, Sangley Point.
Armaments will be procured in separate procurement project.
Philippine Navy is now operating six MPACs. Three from Taiwan (15-meter MPAC Mk 1) while the other three (17-meter MPAC Mk II) were from Filipino shipbuilder Propmech Corporation in Subic Bay, Zambales.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9616-philippine-navy-mpac-mk-3-armed-with-heavy-light-machine-gun-surface-surface-missiles
Philippine Navy’s three missile-armed Multi-purpose Attack Crafts (MPAC Mk III) will be at least 17 meters long, with waterline length of at least 15 meters.
As per Department of National Defense’s Technical Specifications, these MPACs should have a cruising speed of 40 knots and a maximum speed of 45 knots.
The Department of National Defense also wants these MPACs to have provisions for remote weapon system for 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun M2HB; and missile launch system and respective remote operating consoles inside the craft. MPAC Mk III should also have provisions for two M60/7.62mm Light Machine Gun.
These three MPACs should also be capable of storing 2,000 rounds for 12.7mm, 4,000 rounds for 7.62mm and 10 canisters of surface-to-surface missiles.
Procurement will be through single-stage open competitive bidding. Bid opening will be on April 6. Delivery of the goods should be within 365 calendar days from receipt of Notice to Proceed or the date provided in the NTP. Delivery will be at Captain Moya Boat Landing, Sangley Point.
Armaments will be procured in separate procurement project.
Philippine Navy is now operating six MPACs. Three from Taiwan (15-meter MPAC Mk 1) while the other three (17-meter MPAC Mk II) were from Filipino shipbuilder Propmech Corporation in Subic Bay, Zambales.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9616-philippine-navy-mpac-mk-3-armed-with-heavy-light-machine-gun-surface-surface-missiles
US Navy ready to support joint naval patrols in South China Sea
From Ang Malaya (Mar 18): US Navy ready to support joint naval patrols in South China Sea
United States Navy Seventh Fleet Vice Admiral Robert Thomas said the fleet he is currently commanding is ready to support in case Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei, the Philippines and Malaysia agreed to conduct joint patrols in South China Sea.
“Perhaps easier said than done, from both a policy and organization perspective, such an initiative could help crystallize the operational objectives in the training events that ASEAN navies want to pursue,” Thomas said at a session with navy chiefs at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition on Tuesday as quoted by Bloomberg.
“If ASEAN members were to take the lead in organizing something along those lines, trust me, the U.S. 7th Fleet would be ready to support,” he added.
Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jesus Millan agrees with the the Vice Admiral Thomas. He said that all countries concerned should agree in working together to protect freedom of navigation, the safety and security of seaborne trade and international shipping in South China Sea.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9637-us-navy-ready-to-support-joint-naval-patrols-in-south-china-sea
United States Navy Seventh Fleet Vice Admiral Robert Thomas said the fleet he is currently commanding is ready to support in case Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei, the Philippines and Malaysia agreed to conduct joint patrols in South China Sea.
“Perhaps easier said than done, from both a policy and organization perspective, such an initiative could help crystallize the operational objectives in the training events that ASEAN navies want to pursue,” Thomas said at a session with navy chiefs at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition on Tuesday as quoted by Bloomberg.
“If ASEAN members were to take the lead in organizing something along those lines, trust me, the U.S. 7th Fleet would be ready to support,” he added.
Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jesus Millan agrees with the the Vice Admiral Thomas. He said that all countries concerned should agree in working together to protect freedom of navigation, the safety and security of seaborne trade and international shipping in South China Sea.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9637-us-navy-ready-to-support-joint-naval-patrols-in-south-china-sea
Killed Abu Sayyaf probably the Army Captain who went AWOL
From Ang Malaya (Mar 18): Killed Abu Sayyaf probably the Army Captain who went AWOL
“We are validating this report regarding the killing of Nazmil Sali, and we are also verifying the report that he was indeed the former Army captain, Capt. Khalid Sali who went AWOL (absence without leave) in 2008, or seven years ago,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.
Nazmil Sali is an alleged trusted aide of Abu Sayyaf Group leader Radullan Sahiron.
The military received a report that Nazmil Sali was shot by a fellow bandit in the course of a heated disagreement last Monday, March 16 at Kabuntakas, Patikul, Sulu.
The military is now validating if this certain Nazmil Sali is Army Captain Khalid Sali. Sali went AWOL in 2008. He was one of the Moro National Liberation Front integree who joined the 6th Infantry Division early 2000.
He is a nephew of deceased MNLF Sulu vice chair for military affairs Tahir Sali and grandson of Usman Sali. Usman Sali is the MNLF commander implicated in the 1977 Patikul massacre which resulted in the death of then 1st Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Teodulfo Bautista and 34 other military personnel on October 10, 1977.
In October 10, 1977, BGen. Bautista and his unarmed men were tricked for a peace dialogue but were massacred by Usman Sali groups. The groups radio operator Army Sgt. Oliver Calzada was the only survivor. He stayed alive by playing dead.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9641-killed-abu-sayyaf-probably-the-army-captain-who-went-awol
“We are validating this report regarding the killing of Nazmil Sali, and we are also verifying the report that he was indeed the former Army captain, Capt. Khalid Sali who went AWOL (absence without leave) in 2008, or seven years ago,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.
Nazmil Sali is an alleged trusted aide of Abu Sayyaf Group leader Radullan Sahiron.
The military received a report that Nazmil Sali was shot by a fellow bandit in the course of a heated disagreement last Monday, March 16 at Kabuntakas, Patikul, Sulu.
The military is now validating if this certain Nazmil Sali is Army Captain Khalid Sali. Sali went AWOL in 2008. He was one of the Moro National Liberation Front integree who joined the 6th Infantry Division early 2000.
He is a nephew of deceased MNLF Sulu vice chair for military affairs Tahir Sali and grandson of Usman Sali. Usman Sali is the MNLF commander implicated in the 1977 Patikul massacre which resulted in the death of then 1st Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Teodulfo Bautista and 34 other military personnel on October 10, 1977.
In October 10, 1977, BGen. Bautista and his unarmed men were tricked for a peace dialogue but were massacred by Usman Sali groups. The groups radio operator Army Sgt. Oliver Calzada was the only survivor. He stayed alive by playing dead.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/18/9641-killed-abu-sayyaf-probably-the-army-captain-who-went-awol
Airbus hands over first C-295 aircraft to Philippine Air Force
From Ang Malaya (Mar 19): Airbus hands over first C-295 aircraft to Philippine Air Force
Airbus, on March 18, said it formally handed over the first brand-new C-295 twin-turboprop tactical military transport aircraft.
“The Philippines Air Force has taken delivery of the first of three Airbus C295 medium transport aircraft ordered from Airbus Defence and Space. The aircraft was formally handed over in Seville, Spain where the final assembly line is located and is now being ferried to the Philippines.”
“In Philippines Air Force service the C295 will play a key role in the modernization of the force´s transport fleet and will undertake a wide variety of military and humanitarian missions,” Airbus adds.
“The Airbus Military C295 is a new generation, very robust and reliable, highly versatile tactical airlifter able to carry up to nine tonnes of payload or up to 71 personnel,” the manufacturer said.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/19/9648-airbus-hands-over-first-c295-aircraft-to-philippinesairforce
Airbus, on March 18, said it formally handed over the first brand-new C-295 twin-turboprop tactical military transport aircraft.
“The Philippines Air Force has taken delivery of the first of three Airbus C295 medium transport aircraft ordered from Airbus Defence and Space. The aircraft was formally handed over in Seville, Spain where the final assembly line is located and is now being ferried to the Philippines.”
“In Philippines Air Force service the C295 will play a key role in the modernization of the force´s transport fleet and will undertake a wide variety of military and humanitarian missions,” Airbus adds.
“The Airbus Military C295 is a new generation, very robust and reliable, highly versatile tactical airlifter able to carry up to nine tonnes of payload or up to 71 personnel,” the manufacturer said.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/03/19/9648-airbus-hands-over-first-c295-aircraft-to-philippinesairforce
Bayan stages Sagay protest vs. presence of US Marines
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 19): Bayan stages Sagay protest vs. presence of US Marines
About 400 members of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Negros staged a protest in Sagay City yesterday to oppose the presence of US Marines in the province.
About 400 members of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Negros staged a protest in Sagay City yesterday to oppose the presence of US Marines in the province.
The Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group that arrived February 25 is training Special Action Force members of the 6th Special Action Battalion, and allied local police operatives in Sagay City, in preparation for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in Negros Occidental in April, Supt. Marlu Conag, battalion commander, SAF SAB-6, said earlier.
Courses on anti-insurgency, APEC tasking, human rights, K-9 handling, bomb and explosives, and terrorism are to be taken up with the policemen during the seven-week training that ends in early April, Conag said.
Christian Tuayon, BAYAN-Negros secretary general, yesterday said the presence of the US Marines in the province clearly violates the country’s sovereignty and symbolizes the continuing intervention of the US in the country’s internal affairs.
The so-called training to prepare for security for the upcoming APEC meeting is a smokescreen, he charged.
The real motives is the fielding of US troops as forward-deployed units capable for striking against enemies of the United States, which may include Filipino citizens, as well as direct intervention in counter-insurgency operations, Tuayon said.
He alleged that the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, transform every military and police camp as “agreed location” for the exclusive use of the US troops.
The Joint Special Operation Task Force has established permanent structures inside the WestMin Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines where they deployed troops and drones for surveillance and strike operations, Tuayon said.
“In Africa and in Pakistan, the US has been using drone strikes killing civilians and destroying communities. They do it in Mindanao and they could do it in Negros”, Tuayon warned.
Beyond the so-called training is the operationalization of the direct military intervention through the control and mobilization of local police to serve the political and business interest of US in the country, he added.
The location of the proposed oil and natural gas deposits in the Sulu Sea is seen as the reason behind their presence in the Negros island, as they were already granted to Texaco, a US-based oil company, Tuayon said.
Brgy head, bodyguard shot dead in Calatrava
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 19): Brgy head, bodyguard shot dead in Calatrava
Four armed men shot and killed a barangay chairman and his security escort at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday in upland Brgy. Cruz, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
Four armed men shot and killed a barangay chairman and his security escort at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday in upland Brgy. Cruz, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
The two victims, identified as Cruz barangay chairman Rodolfo Antenero, 59, and his security escort, Raymond Sabilla, a former member of the Philippine Marine Corps, succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, with fatal injuries in the head, Senior Inspector Mark Angelo Junco, Calatrava police chief, said yesterday.
Police investigations show that Antenero and Sabilla were on their way to the Cruz barangay poblacion, when they were waylaid and shot by the four suspects reportedly armed with a .45 caliber pistol and a shotgun.
Both died on the spot, Junco said.
Four empty shells and a slug of a .45 caliber pistol and pellets of a shotgun were recovered at the scene by Calatrava policemen.
Before the killings, Junco said Antenero had received death threats.
He added that there were witnesses to the shooting incident, but they are uncooperative.
Junco said there had been complaints against Antenero, in relation to land conflict, that had been recorded in the police blotter.
Police probers are looking into two angles in the killing of Antenero and Sabilla which are personal grudges, or land conflict.
Army, SAF seize guns, nab 2 ‘rebels’
From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 19): Army, SAF seize guns, nab 2 ‘rebels’
The two suspected NPA rebels arrested by government troopers and the six homemade guns recovered at the encounter site in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental at 7:51 a.m., yesterday.
Two suspected New People’s Army rebels were captured, and six guns were recovered by the combined troops of the Philippine Army and elite police Special Action Force during an encounter yesterday with about 30 communist guerillas in Brgy. Codcod, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
The two suspected NPA rebels arrested by government troopers and the six homemade guns recovered at the encounter site in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental at 7:51 a.m., yesterday.
Two suspected New People’s Army rebels were captured, and six guns were recovered by the combined troops of the Philippine Army and elite police Special Action Force during an encounter yesterday with about 30 communist guerillas in Brgy. Codcod, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
Lt. Col. Rommel Cordova, 62nd Infantry Battalion commander, said the encounter took place at about 7:50 a.m. yesterday, while his troops, the 6th Special Action Force Battalion and NOPPO Public Safety Company were responding to reports of civilians about the presence of armed rebels in their place.
The rebels, believed to be under the command of a certain Ka Reboy, were surprised by the sudden appearance of government troops, and an about 15-minute of running gunbattle ensued, Cordova said.
The fleeing rebels left behind five shotguns and a 357 magnum revolver.
Cordova said two suspected rebels, identified as Felipe Bolo, 34, and Conrado Sison, 19, of Sitio Bedio, Brgy. Codcod, San Carlos City, were captured at the encounter site and were immediately turned over to the San Carlos City police station for detention and inquest proceedings.
No casualty was reported on the government side, while pursuing government troopers are still trailing the fleeing rebels, following traces of bloodstains along their withdrawal routes, he added.
Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, 3rd Infantry Division commander, in a statement he issued yesterday, reminded government troops, in pursuit of the rebels fleeing towards Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, to strictly observe the rule of law.
The 62IB, in tandem with 6th SAB and NOPPO Public Safety Company, have been conducting security operations since last week in the hinterlands of Escalante City and Toboso, as the NPA is set to mark its 46th founding anniversary on March 29.
Cordova said they are ready to provide medical assistance to injured rebels, who may wish to come down and rejoin the mainstream society.
1 NPA killed, 2 more wounded in clashes
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 18): 1 NPA killed, 2 more wounded in clashes
TWO MEMBERS of the New People’s Army were captured while one was killed in an encounter in Maragusan, Compostela Valley and Agusan on Monday.
Lt. Vergel Lacambra, division public affairs officer, said troops under the 25th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat patrol when they encountered the rebels resulting to a firefight lasting 40 minutes in Barangay New Manay, Maragusan at 4:45 p.m.
A wounded rebel was left behind by his comrades and brought to the Davao Regional Hospital in Tagum City.
An M16 rifle, four improvised landmines, 500-meter electrical wires, 18 backpacks, 13 pairs of rain boots, medical equipment and documents belonging to the rebels were found at the scene.
In a separate incident, an NPA rebel was also captured after he was left behind during an encounter against elements of the 75th Infantry Battalion in Cagumay, Sta Cruz, Rosario, Agusan Del Sur at 8 a.m.
Meanwhile, another NPA member was killed while firearms recovered when joint forces of 29th Infantry Battalion and 13th Regional Public Safety Battalion encountered the rebels in Himbangan, Kicharao, Agusan Del Norte at 8 a.m.
Based on the report, troops responded to the scene after receiving a complaint of extortion by the rebels.
Soldiers have yet to identify the name of the rebel. They were able to recover three M16 rifles, two AK-47 rifles and one M203 grenade launcher.
Maj. Gen Eduardo M. Año, commander of 10th Infantry Division, praised the soldiers actions in following the rule of law and respecting human rights and the international humanitarian law.
“The compassion showed to a wounded enemy-combatant manifests the discipline of the soldiers,” he said.
62% of Mindanao residents oppose BBL – Pulse Asia
From Rappler (Mar 19): 62% of Mindanao residents oppose BBL – Pulse Asia
The nationwide survey also shows that nearly 5 in 10 Filipinos are against the passage of the proposed law – a product of the peace pact between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
SURVEY SAYS. The results of a nationwide survey conducted March 1-7, 2015, indicates public sentiment on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law after the Mamsapano incident. File photo by Malacañang Photo Bureau
If the results of the latest Pulse Asia Research Inc survey serve as any indication, the proposed Bangamoro Basic Law (BBL) may have a difficult chance of ratification if put to a vote in a plebiscite right now.
Nationwide, nearly 5 in 10 Filipinos or 44% are opposed to the passage of the BBL, a product of the peace deal between the government and rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The survey recorded a high level of awareness among Filipinos regarding the BBL. Nine in 10 Filipinos or 88% said they have heard, read or watched something about the proposed law – 87% in Luzon, 82% in the Visayas, and 93% in Mindanao.
The nationwide survey also shows that nearly 5 in 10 Filipinos are against the passage of the proposed law – a product of the peace pact between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
SURVEY SAYS. The results of a nationwide survey conducted March 1-7, 2015, indicates public sentiment on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law after the Mamsapano incident. File photo by Malacañang Photo Bureau
If the results of the latest Pulse Asia Research Inc survey serve as any indication, the proposed Bangamoro Basic Law (BBL) may have a difficult chance of ratification if put to a vote in a plebiscite right now.
A Pulse Asia survey released on Thursday, March 19 found that 62% of Filipinos in Mindanao – said to benefit from the BBL – disagree with the passage of the proposed law seeking to create a new autonomous region in Mindanao with greater fiscal and political powers.
The survey results showed that more people in Mindanao believe the bill should not be passed by lawmakers, compared to those in National Capital Region (52%), the rest of Luzon (32%), and the Visayas (43%).
Among all regions, the lowest level of indecision about their stand on the BBL was recorded in Mindanao at 18%.
In the rest of Luzon, 43% are undecided, while 40% are undecided in the Visayas.
Under the current proposal in Congress, the BBL would have to undergo ratification in a plebiscite in core areas of the proposed Bangsamoro region after it hurdles Congress.
Proposed core areas include current provinces under the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the cities of Cotabato and Isabela, and municipalities and barangays in North Cotabato that voted yes to the ARMM plebiscite in 2001. The survey, however, did not include separate results from the core territories.
Screenshot of the Pulse Asia survey
The survey was conducted from March 1-7, as headlines continued to be dominated by the Mamasapano tragedy that killed 67 people, including 44 elite cops, 18 MILF members, and 5 civilians, resulting in a political fallout that stalled deliberations on the proposed law and endangered its passage.
The survey came in the aftermath of the police operation in Mamasapano to arrest wanted terrorists Zulkifli bin Hir (Marwan) and Abdul Basit Usman. Marwan was killed but Usman was able to get away.
The survey results also showed that while 79% of Filipinos found that the explanation provided by Aquino on the operation was not enough, more Filipinos still believe he should remain in office. (READ: More Filipinos don't want Aquino to resign – poll)
Young kidnap gang leader nabbed in Zamboanga Sibugay
From InterAksyon (Mar 19): Young kidnap gang leader nabbed in Zamboanga Sibugay
The alleged leader of a kidnap gang, all of 22 years old, was arrested in a raid on his hideout in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay early this week, police said.
Provincial police director Senior Superintendent Jose Gucela said Muin Biang, alias “Muntaser,” did not resist arrest when collared in Sitio Lumaraw Island in Barangay San Roque.
Biang was served a warrant for his arrest issued by Judge Josefino P. Bael of the Imelda Regional Trial Court, Branch 31.
Gucela described the suspect as “a notorious criminal listed as the Top 3 Most wanted in Payao and who is affiliated to the other criminal group and kidnap for ransom groups operating in some areas of Zamboanga Sibugay.”
Among these gangs, he said, are the Itting Abbas Group, that of Hussien Madi, alias “Commander Rambo/Commander Cobra/Long Hair,” and the Reming Sabtal group.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/107258/young-kidnap-gang-leader-nabbed-in-zamboanga-sibugay
The alleged leader of a kidnap gang, all of 22 years old, was arrested in a raid on his hideout in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay early this week, police said.
Provincial police director Senior Superintendent Jose Gucela said Muin Biang, alias “Muntaser,” did not resist arrest when collared in Sitio Lumaraw Island in Barangay San Roque.
Biang was served a warrant for his arrest issued by Judge Josefino P. Bael of the Imelda Regional Trial Court, Branch 31.
Gucela described the suspect as “a notorious criminal listed as the Top 3 Most wanted in Payao and who is affiliated to the other criminal group and kidnap for ransom groups operating in some areas of Zamboanga Sibugay.”
Among these gangs, he said, are the Itting Abbas Group, that of Hussien Madi, alias “Commander Rambo/Commander Cobra/Long Hair,” and the Reming Sabtal group.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/107258/young-kidnap-gang-leader-nabbed-in-zamboanga-sibugay
Jabidah | Group calls on Moros to intensify struggle for right to self-determination
From the pro-CPP online publication Bulatlat (Mar 18): Jabidah | Group calls on Moros to intensify struggle for right to self-determination
“Now is the time for the Moro people to lift the veil of compliance to the US-Aquino regime, and intensify the fight to protect the rights of the Moro people.”
On the 47th year commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, Moro evacuees in Elian village, Datu Saudi Ampatuan protest in front of the village hall to call for military pullout (Photo by Suara Bangsamoro)
The progressive group Suara Bangsamoro called on the Moro people to “intensify the fight against national oppression and for true freedom and the right to self-determination,” on the the 47th year of the Jabiddah Massacre.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2015/03/18/jabidah-group-calls-on-moros-to-intensify-struggle-for-right-to-self-determination/
“Now is the time for the Moro people to lift the veil of compliance to the US-Aquino regime, and intensify the fight to protect the rights of the Moro people.”
On the 47th year commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, Moro evacuees in Elian village, Datu Saudi Ampatuan protest in front of the village hall to call for military pullout (Photo by Suara Bangsamoro)
The progressive group Suara Bangsamoro called on the Moro people to “intensify the fight against national oppression and for true freedom and the right to self-determination,” on the the 47th year of the Jabiddah Massacre.
“Now is the time for the Moro people to lift the veil of
compliance to the US-Aquino regime, and intensify the fight to protect the
rights of the Moro people from the onslaught of violations of this current
regime,” Amirah Ali Lidasan, Suara Bangsamoro national president.
On March 18, 1968, at least 23 young Tausug recruits from
Sulu were gunned down by their military trainors in Corregidor Island island
of Sabah
The incident angered the Moro people and led to the
formation of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) by Nur Misuari, which waged
armed struggle for secession of Muslim Mindanao. The MNLF signed a peace pact
with the Ramos administration in 1996.
The date is now commemorated as Bangsamoro Freedom Day in
accordance with the Muslim Mindanao Act.
MNLF’s splinter group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(MILF), continued the armed struggle, until it signed the Comprehensive
Agreement on the Bangsamoro (Cab) with the Aquino administration in 2014. The
peace process will be completed with the approval of the Bangsamoro Basic Law
(BBL) in a referendum, and the formation of the Bangsamoro political entity.
The MILF had come under attack from some politicians and
lawmakers, who also questioned the peace process and the BBL, in the wake of
the Mamasapano clash which cost the lives of 44 elite cops, 18 MILF men, and at
least two civilians.
Lidasan said the Aquino administration has a “divisive and
duplicitous peace policy,” as government troops continue to attack Moro
communities as part of the US
The government’s “operations of reprisals against the
Mamasapano encounter” had intensified human rights violations against
civilians, and bolsters Moro people’s doubts to the sincerity of the government
in resolving the conflict in Mindanao ,” she
said.
“The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the BBL
is being used as a leverage to make the MILF succumb its struggle for the right
to self-determination along the confines of the Philippine Constitution and the
interests of the members of Senate and Congress,” Lidasan said.
Lidasan pointed out that there are still 327 Moro civilians
who continue to languish in detention in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City
“Now is the time to expose the Aquino administration of its
negligence to the internally displaced persons caused by its all-out offensives
against the MNLF and the MILF,” Lidasan said.
Progressive groups and victims of human rights violations
gathered in major cities in Mindanao, in Zamboanga City, Cotabato City, Iligan
and Davao City, to protest “the continuing implementation of policies and
military operations of the US- Aquino regime that continue to violate the
rights of the Moro people, destroy their communities and livelihood, forcing
displacement and diaspora.”
In Elian village, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Suara Bangsamoro led
evacuees to march to the village hall to protest the government troops that had
encamped, along with two armed personnel carriers. This is in violation of
international humanitarian laws, which prohibits military use of civilian
facilities, said Jerome Aba, Suara Bangsamoro spokesperson.
Suara Bangsamoro said that there are now almost 100,000
evacuees in Maguindanao and its nearby areas in Central
Mindanao , where government troops the military had intensified its
operations against forces of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. In
Zamboanga city, evacuees from the 2013 standoff between government and MNLF
troops are still in makeshift shelters.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2015/03/18/jabidah-group-calls-on-moros-to-intensify-struggle-for-right-to-self-determination/
Military and police in heightened alert in Northern Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Military and police in heightened alert in Northern Mindanao
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745553
The military and police on Wednesday placed on heightened
alert Northern Mindanao in anticipation of
possible terror attacks by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) as the rebel
group observed its 46th anniversary on March 29 this year.
Pol. Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz, Jr., regional head of the
Philippine National Police (PNP) in Northern Mindanao, said that the PNP is
working closely with the military in securing the borders of Northern
Mindanao .
He said that the military and police have received intelligence
reports that the armed NPA rebels would launch an offensive in various areas,
including the major cities, in Northern Mindanao
as part of the NPA’s anniversary celebration.
Cruz said that he has instructed all PNP sub command
stations in the region to institute appropriate security measures in their
areas of responsibility.
“I have instructed the police to be on guard, particularly
in converging areas where people normally gather such as the market place,
malls and shopping center, and churches,” Cruz said.
In Cagayan De Oro City, the local police command has also
stepped up the police security measure by establishing checkpoints in various
strategic areas.
Pol. Sr. Supt. Faro Antonio Olaguera, head of the city’s
police command, said that the mobile checkpoints are now operational in the
city’s borders.
The NPA, the military arm of the Communist Party of the
Philippines (CPP), has launched a series of harassment and attacks against the
military and police in Northern Mindanao for
the past months.
The military said that the NPA has carried out 350
atrocities in 2014. In 2015, the NPA launched 59 punitive actions in the
regions of Northeastern Mindanao, Northern Mindanao, Saranggani and Davao
The NPA was organized on March 29, 1969. It has an estimated
4,000 members nationwide.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745553
CIDG-12 files additional charges vs Tambako, 4 others
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): CIDG-12 files additional charges vs Tambako, 4 others
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745573
Police authorities here have filed additional illegal
possession of explosives charges against arrested Justice for Islam Movement
(JIM) founder Ustadz Mohammad Ali Tambako and four of his men.
Senior Supt. Manuel Cornel, Criminal Investigation and
Detection Group (CIDG) Region 12 director, said Wednesday they filed the
charges in connection with the raid at the group’s alleged safehouse here on
Monday that resulted to the recovery of various suspected bomb-making
components.
CIDG-12 operatives staged the raid at a house in Lot 20, Block 14, Phase 2-A of Doña Soledad Subdivision
in Barangay Labangal that was previously rented by Tambako.
The team found at the house several detonating cords, improvised
circuit boxes, blasting caps, blasting powder, switches and batteries.
Another raid was launched at a house in the same village
that was supposedly rented earlier by Tambako but it yielded negative.
“We returned their arrest warrants to the court and filed
another case because of the evidences recovered at their safehouse,” Cornel
said.
He was referring to the arrest warrant earlier issued by the
Regional Trial Court Branch 15 in Cotabato
City
Tambako, who is the former vice chair of the outlawed
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and his four companions were nabbed
aboard a tricycle along the national highway in Barangay Calumpang at past 9
p.m. Sunday.
The four other suspects were identified as Mesharie Gayak,
Datukan Sabiwang, Ali Ludisma and Abusama Guiamel.
Tambako and his companions, who yielded three handguns and
three hand grenades, were immediately flown to Manila
Insp. Celso Murillo, acting head of the city police’s
explosives ordnance disposal team, said the recovered bomb-making materials
were enough to make two to three powerful explosives.
He said the only lacking component from the seized materials
is the main charge of an explosive.
“But they only need to piece them together to come up with
the bombs,” he said.
Supt. Michael Odejerte, spokesperson of the city police
office, said the recovered bomb-making materials showed that Tambako’s group
had planned to launch terror attacks in the city.
“It’s important for everyone to be alert and vigilant so we
can avert these plots,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745573
Gov’t troopers recover guns after clash with NPA rebels in northern Negros
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Gov’t troopers recover guns after clash with NPA rebels in northern Negros
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745592
Assorted firearms were recovered by military and police
troopers following an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels at Sitio
Natuyay, Barangay Codcod, San
Carlos City
Lt. Col. Rommel Cordova, commanding officer of the Army's
62nd Infantry Battalion, said the clash lasted for about 15 minutes.
The government troops recovered five homemade shot guns and
one .357 caliber revolver, he said.
Combined forces of the Army’s 62nd IB and the Philippine
National Police's 6th Special Action Force Battalion were conducting community
security operations when they encountered the NPA rebels.
The rebels are believed to be under the Northern Negros
Front Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros led by Alias Reboy.
No casualties were reported from the government side while
an undetermined number of rebels could have been wounded due to bloodstains
seen along the route of their withdrawal, the Army said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745592
Davao City remains safe, secure amid Army offensive in Maguindanao, says TF Davao chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Davao City remains safe, secure amid Army offensive in Maguindanao, says TF Davao chief
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745650
Military authorities here assured that the city’s safety and
security will not be affected even with the offensive operations against the
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao.
Colonel Macairog Alberto, commanding officer of the Task Force
Davao (TF Davao) said the unit is fully aware of all possibilities as soldiers
pursue the members of the BIFF in the province. He said they keep watch on the
possible enclaves where terror cells might take refuge if ever they would come
to the city.
Alberto said the TF Davao is coordinating closely with the
local leaders of various communities to immediately detect groups of
individuals who might sow trouble here as soldiers intensify the operations
against the rebels in Maguindanao.
“A terror cell needs the support of a community to attain
its objectives that is why we are coordinating closely with the community
leaders and the police to help us deny them any haven in Davao City,” he said.
Major General Eduardo Año, commander of the 10th Infantry
Division, said security is also intensified even in areas close to Maguindanao.
He said the tight security yielded the arrest of Mohammad
Ali alias Tambako, an alleged former deputy leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic
Freedom Fighters and founder of the Justice for the Islamic Movement and his
five cohorts 9:00 pm, March 15 in Barangay Calumpang, General Santos City, an
area under the 10th ID.
According to Año, a follow up operation in the group’s safe
house on March 17 also resulted in the recovery of detonating cords, blasting
caps and other paraphernalia for an improvised explosive device.
“We are prepared to deal with them in the event they try to
seek refuge in our area of responsibility,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745650
Soldiers, policemen help build houses in Pagadian City relocation site
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Soldiers, policemen help build houses in Pagadian City relocation site
PAGADIAN
CITY
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745593
Mayor Romeo Pulmones said Wednesday the 250 houses are part
of the 479 housing units that will be constructed for the informal settlers “in
need” in Barangay Bulatok, this city.
Pulmones explained they are classified as “in need” since
they don’t have the resources to finance the construction of their houses
although they have the materials, which are recycled.
Pulmones said the housing materials are recycled since these
came from the houses they owned and were demolished when they were relocated to
Barangay Bulatok from the coastal area of Barangay Sta. Lucia, this city.
Pulmones said he is grateful to the police and soldiers from
the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion and 547th Engineering Battalion who assisted
them in the relocation of the informal settlers.
The informal settlers were relocated to pave way for the
implementation of government project in the coast of Barangay
Sta. Lucia , this city.
Pulmones said the construction of the remaining houses for
the informal settlers “in need” is ongoing at the relocation site.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=745593
Efforts to recover missing SAF equipment, weapons still ongoing
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Efforts to recover missing SAF equipment, weapons still ongoing
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745565
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said
that efforts are still ongoing to recover the other missing equipment and
firearms lost by the Special Action Force (SAF) during the bloody encounter in
Mamasapano, Maguindanao last Jan. 25.
This will continue until all the missing items are
recovered, said AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc.
As of this posting, around 51 long and short firearms of the
44 SAF men killed in the fighting during efforts to neutralize Malaysian
terrorist Zulkipli Bin Hir alias Marwan are still missing.
Only 17 weapons, most of them cannibalized, were returned
last February.
Last Tuesday, the AFP turned over to the Philippine National
Police (PNP) mission essential equipment of the SAF which includes five units
of night vision goggles, three laser target pointers, two night fighting
devices, two units night vision monocular, three units hand-held Harris radios,
one NEBO PROTEC laser designator, two gas masks, one Kevlar helmet, one set
vest, one pair combat boots, one lower uniform pants and two gun protective
cases.
"We acknowledge the contributions of all stakeholders
and peace partners who are supporting the on-going peace process in Mindanao ," Cabunoc said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745565
AFP verifies killing of ASG Radullan Sahiron's trusted aide by fellow bandit
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): AFP verifies killing of ASG Radullan Sahiron's trusted aide by fellow bandit
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745585
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is now validating
reports claiming that Nazmil Sali, allegedly a trusted aide of Abu Sayyaf Group
(ASG) leader Radullan Sahiron, was fatally shot by a fellow bandit during a
heated altercation last Monday.
"We are validating this report regarding the killing of
Nazmil Sali, and we are also verifying the report that he was indeed the former
Army captain, Capt. Khalid Sali who went AWOL (absence without leave) in 2008,
or seven years ago," AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold
Cabunoc said.
Sali was allegedly fatally shot by one ASG operative named
Akil, reportedly the nephew of "Cmdr. Putol"during an heated
altercation Monday (March 16)at Kabuntakas, Patikul, Sulu.
The caused for the shooting is still being determined.
Sali allegedly was former Moro National Liberation Front
integree who joined the 6th Infantry Division early 2000 and defected to the
ASG side in 2008.
The former is a nephew of deceased MNLF Sulu vice chair for
military affairs Tahir Sali and grandson of Usman Sali, the MNLF commander
implicated in the 1977 Patikul massacre which resulted in the death of then 1st
Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Teodulfo Bautista and 34 other military
personnel on Oct. 10, 1977.
Baustista and his men were tricked by Sali into going to
Patikul for peace talks.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745585
AFP chief says Usman to fall next
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): AFP chief says Usman to fall next
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745604
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen.
Gregorio Pio Catapang on Wednesday assured the public that Basit Usman will be
the next terrorist to fall into government hands.
He made this response when asked whether Sunday's arrest of
Justice for Islam Movement founder Mohammad Ali Tambako in General Santos
"(He will be next) but I cannot give the date or exact
timeline. The troops are all very eager to neutralize or arrest him,"
Catapang said in Filipino.
He also cautioned the public from being too eager for
Usman's arrest as "patience is a virtue."
Catapang said that the AFP could not afford to operate
haphazardly as this could cause casualties.
"We could incur casualties due to poor planning, poor
coordination or poor synchronization of efforts," the AFP chief stressed.
Earlier, AFP reports claimed that Usman and his cohorts are
still trapped by the military cordon in Maguindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745604
CA confirms 33 DFA officials, 37 AFP officers
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): CA confirms 33 DFA officials, 37 AFP officers
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745611
The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed on Wednesday
the appointments and nominations of 33 officers of the Department of Foreign
Affairs (DFA) and 37 high-ranking officers of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP).
The powerful commission, however, deferred the confirmation
of the ad interim appointment of 6th Infantry Division Commander Edmundo
Pangilinan to the grade of Major General upon the motion of Senator Alan Peter
Cayetano at the national defense level.
Cayetano grilled Pangilinan for more than one hour regarding
Pangilinan’s action when relieved Special Action Force (SAF) Chief Getulio
Napenas asked for artillery support from the 6th ID of the Philippine Army
during the Mamasapano encounter that killed 44 SAF commandos on Jan. 25.
Unsatisfied with Pangilinan’s answers, Cayetano moved to
defer the recommendation of Pangilinan’s confirmation to the plenary.
”I’m satisfied with many of your answers. There are still
gaps that I want to get answer. If we confirm him (Pangilinan) today , and in
the next few weeks the investigation shows something negative, it will reflect
on this committee,” Cayetano explained.
Pangilinan refused to answer some of the questions of
Cayetano, saying it would require executive session which has been granted by
the CA panel.
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a former Navy officer, tried
to block the exclusion of Pangilinan in the confirmation of the 38 AFP officers
but he was outnumbered.
”I think it is unfair because he (Pangilinan) did nothing
wrong with this mess. The plan (Oplan Exodus) was flawed. There was no prior
coordination with the military. The 6th ID sent ground troops but artillery,
that’s another thing. You cannot fire artillery without knowing the first
situation on the ground because you might hit civilians,” Trillanes explained
in defending Pangilinan and the AFP.
Pangilinan’s confirmation will be tackled at the plenary at
the resumption of Congress on May 4.
The 37 confirmed AFP officers include: Air Force Col. Pio C.
Gomez, Lt. Gen. Oscar P. Lopez, Maj. Gen. Raul L. del Rosario, Brig. Gen. Julio
R. Godfrey, Army Col. George N. Caperocho, Navy Capt. Mederico R. Celso, Col.
Basilio C. Pooten, Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad, Vice Admiral Alexander S.
Lopez, Brig. Gen. Edgar T. de Vera, Brig. Gen. Jose G. Mirandilla Jr., PAF Col.
Arcangel G. Gamido Jr., Lt. Gen. Nicanor M. Vivar, Rear Admiral Reynaldo L.
Yoma, Maj. Gen. Ivan F. Samarita, Brig. Gen. Leandro A. Loyao III, Brig. Gen.
Joselito M. Reyes.
The CA also confirmed Brig. Gen. Ricardo F. Castilan, PA
Col. Benedict M. Arevalo, PN Capt. Leo L. Zapatos, Maj. Gen. Rafael C.
Valencia, Brig. Gen. Buenaventura C. Pascual, Brig. Gen. Rozzano D. Briguez,
Brig. Gen. Guillermo A. Molina Jr. II, Brig. Gen. Paolo Leo Ma G. Miciano,
Brig. Apolinario Y. Alobba, Commodore Edwin M. Mackay, Brig. Gen. Ernesto R.
Milo, PA Col. Samuel B. Gayongorsa, Maj. Gen. Richard Q. Lagrana, Brig. Gen.
Andrew R. Regacho, Brig. Gen. Al I. Perreras, Brig. Gen. Glenn G. Macasero,
Commodore Vicente L. Cejoco, Brig. Gen. Michael Beverlyn J. Manquiquis, Maj.
Gen. Demosthenes C. Santillan, and Rear Admiral Aurelio A. Rabusa Jr.
Meanwhile, the CA, upon recommendation by the Committee on
Foreign Affairs, confirmed six ambassadors and 27 career and service officers.
The confirmed ambassadors include: Mary Jo. A.
Bernardo-Aragon, ambassador to Thailand ;
Lourdes O. Yparraguirre to the United Nations in New York India and Kingdom of Nepal Australia with concurrent jurisdiction over Croatia , Slovenia
and Slovak Republic ,
Alfonso A. Ver to Bahrain ,
and Renato Pedro O. Villa to Kuwait
Other confirmed DFA officers were: Domingo P. Nolaso,
Christian L. De Jesus, Rossanna Marie Villamor-Voogel, Reginald S. Bernabe,
Gabriel R. Bautista, Shirley L. Flores, Chariles Andrei P. Macaspac, Hjayceelyn
M. Quintana, Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro, Angelito Nayan, Vanessa G. Bago-Liona,
Enrique Voltaire G. Pingol, Rhenita B. Rodriguez, Charmaine Serna-Chua, Alena
Grace S. Borra, Gilbert L. Segarra, Evelyn D. Austria-Garcia, Jesus S. Domingo,
Ivan Frank M. Olea, Stephanie Beatriz O. Valera, Lilibeth P. Almonte Arbez,
Pamela F. Dunan-Bailon, Mary Luck S. Hicarte, Arnel M. Sanchez, Hans Mohaimin
L. Siriban, Maria Sheila U. Monedero-Arnesto, and Mary Joy B. Ramirez.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=745611
COA: PH army's fuel, representation expenses double in a year
From Rappler (Mar 17): COA: PH army's fuel, representation expenses double in a year
Food expenses also see a huge increase
ELITE TROOPS: Members of the Light Reaction Battalion inside cleared areas of the combat zone in Zamboanga City. File photo by Karlos Manlupig
From 2012 to 2013, the expenses of the Philippine army for fuel and representation to various functions increased by more than 100%, the Commission on Audit said.
Food expenses also see a huge increase
ELITE TROOPS: Members of the Light Reaction Battalion inside cleared areas of the combat zone in Zamboanga City. File photo by Karlos Manlupig
From 2012 to 2013, the expenses of the Philippine army for fuel and representation to various functions increased by more than 100%, the Commission on Audit said.
In 2013, the Philippine army spent P696 million for "gasoline, oil and lubricants" – up 101% from P345.16 million in 2012.
Meanwhile, "representation expenses" jumped 106% in 2013 from P219.96 million in 2012.
The audit report noted that the increase in this kind of expenditure was due to "increased expenses incurred in consultation meetings, conferences and other official entertainment in government."
The Philippine army also spent more for "food supplies" in 2013 at P355.82 million – an 86% increase from P191.98 million in 2012.
Auditors said this is due to the increase in the appropriation of combat expenses, which provide for fuel and food supplies.
Navy, Air Force
Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy's representation expenses jumped 60% from P33.22 million in 2012 to P53.16 million in 2013, while its food supplies expense dropped to P3.93 million from P6.91 million. Data for its gas, oil and lubricants expense were incomplete.
The Philippine Air Force registered the lowest increase in expenses, spending P135.52 million in 2013 for representation (up from P129.69 million in 2012), and P220,000 for food supplies (down from P1.543 million).
The Air Force's gasoline, oil and lubricant expenses also dropped from P922.69 million to P896.08 million.
'American tried to give orders in Mamasapano'
From Rappler (Mar 18): 'American tried to give orders in Mamasapano'
'There is a need to refine and delineate the defense relationship between the Philippines and the US including cooperation on matters relating to anti-terrorism,' says the Senate report on the Mamasapano incident
US ASSISTANCE: An injured police commando (on stretcher) waits to be loaded onto a waiting US military helicopter. All photos by Mark Navales/AFP
One of the 6 Americans who tagged along sacked Special Action Force (SAF) commander Police Director Getulio Napeñas tried to order the military around at the height of clashes in Mamasapano – a move that angered 6th Infantry Division commander Major General Edmundo Pangilinan.
Pangilinan repeatedly explained he couldn't approve artillery fire because incomplete information could mean friendly fire or, worse, hurt civilians. The police Board of Inquiry report said the military considered the peace process, a claim denied by the military. (READ: Emotional Army general: All efforts done to help SAF)
Poe had also said that military officials never mentioned the peace process as a consideration for their actions in Mamasapano during the Senate hearings and the executive sessions.
Reward money enticed SAF?
When asked why the 6 Americans were there, Napenas supposedly responded: "Bigla na lang sila sumulpot doon (They just suddenly appeared)."
He later admitted their involvement in intelligence cooperation, training, and equipment provision. They even provided the maps used in the operation.
Later in the day of the clash, the Americans also flew in choppers for medical evacuation.
The SAF also delivered Marwan's finger straight to the FBI in nearby General Santos City. (READ: DNA tests confirm Marwan's death)
Review treaties with US
The call for a review comes at a time when the administration is looking forward to implement a new deal that further expands military-to-military cooperation with the US through the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which is pending before the Supreme Court following a petition questioning its constitutionality.
'There is a need to refine and delineate the defense relationship between the Philippines and the US including cooperation on matters relating to anti-terrorism,' says the Senate report on the Mamasapano incident
US ASSISTANCE: An injured police commando (on stretcher) waits to be loaded onto a waiting US military helicopter. All photos by Mark Navales/AFP
One of the 6 Americans who tagged along sacked Special Action Force (SAF) commander Police Director Getulio Napeñas tried to order the military around at the height of clashes in Mamasapano – a move that angered 6th Infantry Division commander Major General Edmundo Pangilinan.
"One of the Americans ordered Pangilinan to fire the artillery. However, Pangilinan refused and told him, 'Do not dictate to me what to do. I am the commander here!'" revealed the complete draft of the Senate report released on Wednesday evening, March 17.
The office of Senator Grace Poe, who chairs the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, provided the media with copies of the draft report. Poe's committee prepared the draft Joint Committee Report with the committees on peace, unification, and reconciliation, and finance.
The Senate report is critical of US involvement in the SAF operation on January 25, the bloodiest one-day operation in the history of the Philippine National Police (PNP) which led to 67 deaths – 44 SAF commandos, 18 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters, and 5 civilians.
Senate report: Working with an ally as the US apparently gives us access to information and resources that have assisted us in our local operation. However, the question is, what must we give in return? Are there any consequences to working with the US in pursuing its global war on terror? Obviously, in the Mamasapano operation, the consequence of that mission to get Marwan and Usman was the death of a large number of Filipino soldiers and civilians.
The 129-page report concluded that the "ultimate responsibility" for the operation lies with President Benigno Aquino III. He made a mistake in allowing his close buddy, then suspended police chief Police Director General Alan Purisima, to continue his participation in the operation even as he was under suspension over graft charges.
The report said it was a "fatal mistake" not to coordinate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which Purisima had assured Napeñas he was going to do, since artillery fire could have rescued the SAF commandos.
Speaking to reporters earlier on Wednesday, Poe cleared the military of any legal liability largely because the SAF had kept them out the loop. But Poe cast doubts on the military's reasons behind withholding artillery, saying that the situation required flexibility.
Poe had also said that military officials never mentioned the peace process as a consideration for their actions in Mamasapano during the Senate hearings and the executive sessions.
Reward money enticed SAF?
The report also raised questions on the multi-million dollar reward as a motivation for the SAF commandos to ignore risks, a claim that the SAF denied. (READ: Context: The US in PH anti-terror campaigns)
"Who is driving the cart? Was the Mamasapano operation authored by Filipinos? It must be remembered that the US offered a reward of US$5 million for Marwan.
Clearly the staggering amount could have enticed law enforces to conduct operations to support the intrests of others despite the high risks involved," the report said.
SAF killed Malaysian Zulkifli bin hir or Marwan but Filipino bomb maker Abdul Bassit Usman, the other target in the SAF operation, escaped. He is currently the subject of a manhunt.
Existing cooperation agreements between the Philippines and the US allow the USforces to train, advise, and assist their Filipino counterparts in counter-terrorism.
But the report noted that while the US forces were not involved in combat operations on the ground – the one thing that the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) strictly forbids – "the roles of Americans who were present during the operation cannot be readily dismissed as those of mere observers."
'Not 100% Filipino planned'
The report enumerated the involvement of the Americans as follows:
- Napeñas brought 3 Americans into the Army Brigade HQ. A helicopter arrived and 3 more Americans came into the HQ and joined Napenas at his work table.
- One of the Americans, identified by Napenas as Mr Al Katz, supposedly handled the training of the Seaborne.
- One of the Americans ordered Pangilinan to fire the artillery. However, Pangilinan refused and told him “Do not dictate to me what to do. I am the commander here!”
- The Americans provided surveillance in the area through their ISR. TV monitors were brought in by the Americans to the HQ.
“The testimonies of various resource persons, particularly during the executive hearings, appear to contradict the statement of the Department of Foreign Affairs that Oplan Exodus was 100% purely Filipino planned and implemented," the report added.
The Americans trained and gave equipment for the use of the 84th SAC or the Seaborne Unit. It is the main effort that crawled to Pidsandawan in Mamasapano to kill Marwan.
Napeñas cover up
In a press briefing earlier on Wednesday, Poe scored how Napeñas initially tried to cover up US involvement in the SAF operation. She narrated that it was not until Senator Vicente Sotto III named the US personnel involved that the SAF commander admitted it.
He later admitted their involvement in intelligence cooperation, training, and equipment provision. They even provided the maps used in the operation.
Napeñas: Your Honor, tumulong iyong US counterpart doon sa intelligence… Mayroon kaming isang US counterpart doon sa Seaborne who is working with them in terms of training at saka iyong….equipment provision. Your Honor. Kasama po iyon na ibinibigay nila iyong maps na ginagamit for operation. But never nakasama iyong US counterpart in actual combat operation.
(The US counterpart helped in the intelligence. We have a US counterpart in the Seaborne working with them in terms of training and equipment provision. That included the provision of maps used in the operation. But the US counterpart was never part of the actual combat operation.)
The SAF also delivered Marwan's finger straight to the FBI in nearby General Santos City. (READ: DNA tests confirm Marwan's death)
Review treaties with US
The report recommended a review of treaties with the US and to ensure that foreign policies serve the national interest.
"Those in government who are responsible for crafting our foreign policies on security must endeavor to understand the truth behind these international agreements, whether such agreements genuinely serve our national interest," the report read.
"There is a need to refine and delineate the defense relationship between the Philippines and the US including cooperation on matters relating to anti-terrorism," the report added.
Senate report: Balance national interest vis-a-vis treaty obligations to allies such as the US. Balance the interest of the government to abide by its international commitments versus the interest or welfare of the police officers who must carry out the mission.
The EDCA, however, is aimed at helping the country respond to the maritime tension in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). The US is already winding down its anti-terrorism activities in the Philippines.