MILF: BTC Bids Adieu to CHD Phil. head

Posted to the MILF Website (Aug 10): BTC Bids Adieu to CHD Phil. head



Photo by Andrew Alonto

Officials of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) said goodbyes to Ali Saleem, Country Representative of Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD), as the latter completes his three-year stint in the Philippines.

In a farewell program on Sunday night in Cotabato City, BTC Chairman Mohager Iqbal and several commissioners  gave testimonials and tokens to Mr. Saleem who flew in from Manila to grace what could be his last engagement with the BTC.

Ali, as he prefers to be called by his first name, started his work in the Philippines in July 2012. He said he is “grateful to have the chance to serve the process.”

The CHD being a member of the International Contact Group (ICG), Ali provided significant mediation and technical support to both the GPH and MILF Peace Panels.

He is also instrumental in strengthening the advocacy program of the BTC, particularly in the radio programs in Cotabato City and Sulu as well as in Basilan and Tawi-Tawi for sometime.

The production of primers on the BTC as well as on the draft BBL was also made possible with the assistance of CHD and funds from the European Union.

Members of the Teduray tribe performed their native dance in honor of Ali who was accompanied by Dutch national Rene Grotenhuis and CHD staff Ma. Louise Castillo.

Timway Gumbalia Gunsi also expressed appreciation over the facilitation made by Ali relative to the concerns of the indigenous peoples in the draft BBL.

Ali will be assigned to Lahore, Pakistan and then to Bangkok.



http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/517-btc-bids-adieu-to-chd-phil-head

PNoy trumpets 2 new naval ships, plans to get 3 more

From the Philippine Star (Aug 10): PNoy trumpets 2 new naval ships, plans to get 3 more



The two heavy landing ships acquired by the government. Philippine Navy Facebook page/Official Gazette

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday boasted the arrival of two new marine vessels acquired by the Philippine Navy.

In his speech during the Navy change of command ceremonies, Aquino trumpeted the two heavy landing ships that will bolster the amphibious and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities of the Navy and the transportation of troops and equipment.

Aquino said the new vessels, which will soon be commissioned as the BRP Ivatan and BRP Batak, will help the country's landing craft utilities and the BRP Tagbanua.

"Sila ang titiyak na kapag panahon ng sakuna, mas mabilis na ang paghahatid natin ng ayuda kabilang na ang naglalakihang equipment sa iba't ibang panig ng bansa," Aquino said.

The president said the government is planning to get three more ships for the Navy.

He said these initiatives are part of the overall goal to improve the capabilities of the military.

The two naval ships arrived at the Naval Station Pascual Ledesma in Cavite City on Sunday and proceeded to the Navy Headquarters in Manila today.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/08/10/1486524/pnoy-trumpets-2-new-naval-ships-plans-get-3-more

Aquino impressed by 'George Clooney, Albert Einstein' of the Philippine Navy

From the Philippine Star (Aug 10): Aquino impressed by 'George Clooney, Albert Einstein' of the Philippine Navy



Rear Admiral Ceasar Taccad, the new flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy, is seen to "bring the Navy to greater heights." File photo

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday was all praise for Rear Admiral Ceasar Taccad, the new flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy.

In his speech at the change of command ceremony, Aquino admitted that in the past, he never knew personally the new Navy chief.

"Ang balita lang sa akin, ikaw daw ang pinaghalong George Clooney at Albert Einstein sa serbisyo," Aquino said, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.

"Sabi po nila, dahil sa celebrity look mo, marami daw ang nagpapaselfie sa iyo. Itinuturing ka ring henyo dahil sa talas ng isip mo partikular na sa mathematics," he added.

Aquino recalled that when he met Taccad, he was impressed with the military officer's simplicity and humility.

The president challenged Taccad to properly manage the country's naval forces in dealing with security threats.

"'Di biro ang bago mong tungkulin. Masalimuot ang mga pagsubok na hinaharap ng ating bansa. Kailangan mong balansehin ang kapasidad ng ating hukbo sa pagtugon sa mga banta sa ating seguridad,"

Aquino expressed confidence that Taccad will do well in his new post and the Navy will continue to improve under his watch.

Aquino signed Taccad’s appointment papers last Thursday, according to Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.

'Soft-spoken but well-respected'

Navy spokesman Col. Edgard Arevalo described the incoming Navy chief as “unassuming, simple, soft-spoken and well-respected.”

“He (Taccad) is an officer who is very easy to get along with. He is not difficult to deal with,” Arevalo said.

“He is very simple, actually very soft spoken and silent most of the time but if you are able to talk to him about engaging issues about the Navy, about command and leadership, you will be able to learn a lot from him,” he added.

Arevalo believes Taccad’s vision and leadership “will definitely bring the Navy to greater heights.”

Taccad began his career in the service in 1982, after his graduation from the Philippine Military Academy.

He was as a junior officer from 1983 to 1985, fleet staff until 1988 and then served in the Naval Training Command from 1988 to 1991. He later joined the Philippine Naval Staff for Plans at the Philippine Navy Headquarters.

From 2003 to 2014, Taccad led various naval task forces and held a number of top positions such as naval staff chief, naval inspector general, and deputy commander and vice commander of the Philippine fleet.

Taccad completed several military courses including an international surface warfare officer Course in Coronado, California.

He received numerous awards including four Distinguished Service Star medals, four Gawad sa Kaunlaran medals, two military civic action medals and several other military merit and commendation medals.

Taccad hails from Cavite City and was born on Nov. 13, 1960.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/08/10/1486529/aquino-impressed-george-clooney-albert-einstein-philippine-navy

Photo: New navy chief

From The Standard (Aug 11): Photo: New navy chief



President Benigno Aquino III hands over the Philippine Navy flag to Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad who was named flag-officer-in-command at the Navy headquarters on Roxas Boulevard in Manila on Monday. Taccad replaced Vice Admiral Jesus Milan. DANNY PATA

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/08/11/new-navy-chief-/

Photo: New choppers

From The Standard (Aug 11): Photo: New choppers



President Benigno Aquino III leads the inspection of two new helicopters at the Philippine Navy Camp Jose Andrada on Monday. Danny Pata

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/08/11/new-choppers/

Datus abducted?

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 10): Datus abducted?

Army claims 4 tribal leaders have not returned since Aug. 1

FOUR tribal leaders were allegedly abducted by the members of New People’s Army in Sitio Bulo, Barangay Dagohoy in Talaingod, Davao del Norte last Aug. 1.

 

Capt. Alberto Caber, information officer of Eastern Mindanao Command, identified the victims as Datu Danilo Angcomog; Datu Laris Landakay; Datu Jovanie Angcomog; and Datu Kalumpot Dalon, all residents of Sitio Inayaman in San Jose, San Fernando, Bukidnon.

 

Accordingly, the tribal leaders went to the area to settle a maghat or local feud.

Lt. Alexandre Cabales,spokesperson of 10^th Infantry Division, said that the datus were abducted by the NPA group lead by Alias Jose, commander of Guerilla Front 55 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC).

 

Relatives of Datu Dalun told the military that prior to the incident they saw Jose talking to Dalun to drop the case against the rebels.

 

The abducted tribal leaders were said to be witnesses who were willing to give their testimonies on the alleged human trafficking against legal front organizations of the NPAs which resulted to the death of Datu Lito “Lolong” Lundia inside UCCP Haran compound in Davao City.

 

Barangay chairman Hon. Jose Baon and sitio leader Nanding Dungutan Angcomog already reported the incident to the municipal police station on Saturday when the victims have not yet returned home since Aug. 1.

 

Accordingly, the victims were waylaid by the rebels and forcibly brought to unknown place.

 

Soldiers of 68 Infantry Battalion are currently providing assistance to the local officials.

 The villagers condemned the kidnapping saying that they are already fed up with the abuses, harassments and deception of the communist rebels in the area, the army officer said.

 

Concerned Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and tribal chieftains of the said town already held an emergency meeting to make a resolution and send it to the rebel leadership for the safe release of the victims.

 Lt. Col. Vicente Edgardo De Ocampo, 68th IB commander, said they will help the local officials find the tribal leaders as well as the filing of criminal charges against the rebels.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/datus-abducted/

PH Navy christens 2 brand new choppers, 2 supply ships

From Rappler (Aug 10): PH Navy christens 2 brand new choppers, 2 supply ships

The new choppers boost the Philippine Navy's maritime surveillance capability while the ships allow easier transport of troops and cargo from one operational area to another



MARITIME SURVEILLANCE. Christening of armed Augusta Westland naval chopper. PH Navy photo

The Philippine Navy on Monday morning, August 10, christened two brand new choppers and two hand-me-down supply ships from Australia.

Bottles of champagne were poured onto the nose of the choppers while bottles of wine were smashed for the good luck and safe travel of the vessels.

 

The new choppers boost the Philippine Navy's maritime surveillance capability while the two Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels allow easier transport of troops and cargo from one operational area to another.

 

The two Agusta Westland 109 naval choppers are armed with caliber 50 machine gun and 2.75-inch rockets. It will improve the navy's maritime air surveillance and close air support for ground troops because of its maritime surveillance capability, amphibious air support operations, weather search radar and forward looking infrared systems.

Unarmed versions of the choppers are already working in tandem with the country's two most capable warships – Barkong Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Gregorio Del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz – in patrolling the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

 

SUPPLY SHIP. The two supply ships, gifts from Australia, are christened on Monday, August 10

The newly acquired LCH vessels from Australia from were named BRP Ivatan (AT-298) and BRP Batak (AT-299) to honor the ethnic groups of Palawan and Batanes.

These vessels will boost the navy's capability to transport personnel and equipment during military operations or during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

“These new assets are manifestations of our navy’s optimum readiness to perform its tasks and the ability to adapt vis-avis the emergent operating environment. This special occasion likewise signifies the assurance from your navy of renewed strength and vigor in accomplishing our mandates," said outgoing Navy Chief Vice Admiral Jesus Millan.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/102132-christening-naval-choppers-supply-ships

Private prosecutors accuse Pemberton camp of delaying trial

From Rappler (Aug 10): Private prosecutors accuse Pemberton camp of delaying trial

Private prosecutors accuse lawyers of US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton, who is accused of the murder of Filipino transgender Jeffrey 'Jennifer' Laude, of delaying the trial after again failing to present witnesses

PROTEST. The mother of murder victim Jennifer Laude, Julita Cabillan (C), flanked by lawyers Virgie Suarez (L) and Harry Roque (R), uses a bullhorn as she joins protesters outside the Hall of Justice in the Philippine city of Olongapo on August 10, 2015, where the hearing for US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, accused of murdering transgender Filipina Laude, was supposed to take place. Photo by Jay Directo / AFP

 

Private prosecutors on Monday, August 10, accused lawyers of Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton, a United States Marine charged with the murder of Filipino transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude, of delaying the trial after again failing to present witnesses.

 

It was the second week the defense failed to present their witnesses.

In a media briefing, private prosecutor Harry Roque called attention to what he called strategic delays.

“No hearing again today,” said Roque. “This delay is part of their strategy, and we’d like to call the attention of the Supreme Court on this matter.”

Laude was found dead beside a toilet in an Olongapo motel bathroom in October of 2014.

'Inadmissible'

Defense lawyers were scheduled to present evidence on Monday, August 3, after the prosecution’s final witness took the stand last June. Reginal Trial Court Branch 74 Judge Roline Ginez Jabalde, however, cancelled the hearing to allow defense lawyers to review and study a court resolution detailing the prosecution’s formal offer of evidence.

The court’s resolution deferred the admission of a condom wrapper as prosecution evidence, pending the submission of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime Laboratory report. Some 20 items of evidence offered by the prosecution were also deemed inadmissible.

Government prosecutors had asked the court to reconsider.

The prosecution had offered a total of 300 pieces of evidence, as well as 28 witnesses, including policemen, forensic experts, and agents from the United States Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS).

A report from the NCIS and the testimony of NCIS Special Agent Michael McCarver were among the pieces of evidence that were also not admitted in court.

Further delay

Pemberton and his mother, Lisa, along with 5 others were scheduled to take the witness stand Monday, but no presentation took place.

Mrs Pemberton was to stand as character witness for her son.

Defense lawyer Rowena Flores told media that Pemberton’s mother will testify next week as their first witness.

Roque, however, lamented the lost time.

“We only have a year to finish this case and actually 4 months left,” he said.

He added that the delay must be addressed seriously, saying that it may be an attempt to run out the clock on the case, and thus allow Pemberton to leave the country.

Flores downplayed the situation, saying “the prosecution has not rested their case, and it’s the reason we cannot yet present our evidence.”

She said it was the prosecution that filed a demurrer, not the defense.

‘No physical evidence’

Pemberton’s camp said that after re-examination by the PNP Crime Laboratory, the condom wrapper that government witnesses earlier said bore Pemberton’s fingerprints did not in fact carry Pemberton’s prints. (READ: US expert: Pemberton's fingerprint on condom wrapper)

Flores told the media “there is no longer any physical evidence linking Pemberton to the crime scene.”

One of the public prosecutors, however, said the condom wrapper alone is not sufficient to acquit Pemberton of the murder charge.

“The result of the re-examination must be subjected to the test of the credibility of the procedure,” he said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/102188-private-prosecutors-accuse-pemberton-camp-of-delaying-trial

DIPLOMATIC FAUX PAS? | AFP 'misrepresented' UN expert on lumad issue - Gabriela solon

From InterAksyon (Aug 10): DIPLOMATIC FAUX PAS? | AFP 'misrepresented' UN expert on lumad issue - Gabriela solon



UN special rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Chaloka Beyani in a meeting with human rights activists and a leader of the lumad refugees in Davao City during his visit to the country last month. (file photo from Karapatan)

A party-list lawmaker has called out the Armed Forces of the Philippines on what she called “brazen distortions” in a military press statement quoting United Nations special rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Chaloka Beyani as saying lumad refugees in Davao City had been “manipulated.”

Gabriela Representative Luz Ilagan said the press statement, released Friday by the Davao-based Eastern Mindanao Command, constituted “a grievous diplomatic faux pas when it attributed statements to the UN special rapporteur which are contrary to the official report.”

The Eastmincom release, signed by its spokesman, Colonel Eduardo Gubat, and its public affairs office chief, Captain Alberto Caber, cited an exit brief in Camp Aguinaldo where Beyani supposedly said: “When we asked them about the circumstances in which why they left their areas they say they were at risked at force recruitment into Alamara and the movements to that area was in protest in relation to the presence of Alamara, so they wanted to make a point that that was what happened. But I have been there for some time, I think they got manipulated.”

A handful of media outfits ran reports using the Eastmincom release but offered no proof of Beyani’s supposed statement, which runs counter to the official statement he released July 31, at the end of his mission, although a few claimed the briefing had been “recorded.”

(CLICK HERE TO READ DR. BEYANI'S OFFICIAL STATEMENT)

Beyani was here last month on a 10-day visit on the invitation of government to look into the situation of internally displaced persons, including some 700 Manobo from Davao del Norte who have sought refuge at the United Church of Christ in the Philippines Haran Mission House in Davao City.

His visit to Haran came days after a violent attempt to evict the lumad and forcibly return them to the communities they said they had fled because of militarization.

The attempted eviction came after North Cotabato Representative Nancy Catamco raised allegations earlier aired by the military that the Davao City refugees were being held “against their will” and were victims of “trafficking” by nongovernmental and religious groups. 

Discussing his visit to Haran in his statement, Beyani said he was “concerned” by the plight of the refugees but made no reference to the lumad being "manipulated."

“I heard from the AFP its assertion that it is seeking to protect the communities and provide services to them in conflict regions; however the displaced IPs made it clear that it is their presence and that of the paramilitary groups in their communities that continues to create anxiety amongst the indigenous communities,” Beyani said in his statement.

“The community wishes to return to its lands but stressed to me that they will only feel safe to do so if the long-term militarization of their region comes to an end and they can return with guarantees of safety, dignity and protection,” he added. “They described to me their concerns including their alleged forced recruitment into paramilitary groups, known as Alamara, under the auspices of the AFP and harassment in the context of the on-going conflict between the AFP and the NPA. Schools have reportedly been closed and/or occupied by the AFP or Alamara, hampering the access to education of indigenous children.”

At the same time, Beyani stressed that the situation at Haran “is neither acceptable nor sustainable” and urged “a rapid and peaceful solution to their situation in full consultation with their legitimate leaders, with their voluntary and secure return to their ancestral lands being a high priority” and for government, “in consultation with indigenous peoples themselves, to give greater attention to addressing the causes of displacement whether it be due to the militarization of their areas or due to development projects.”

Ilagan, who hails from Davao City, warned that “a diplomatic protest can be lodged against the AFP and the Philippine government” for placing Beyani “in an awkward and embarrassing position.”
She also urged “media practitioners who echoed the AFP press release” to be “more zealous in their research and be accurate in their reportage.”

BELOW IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE EASTMINCOM PRESS RELEASE:

PRESS RELEASE

LUMADS IN HARAN ARE MANIPULATED: Not Evacuees but victims of trafficking

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - MEMBERS of Indigenous People (IP) inside the compound of United Church of Christ of the Philippines (UCCP) in Haran, Davao City are manipulated, not evacuees but victims of trafficking.

This was based on the assessment made by United Nation (UN) Special Rapporteur Cheloka Beyani during the exit brief at the Operations Center of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) in Camp Aguinaldo.

“When we asked them about the circumstances in which why they left their areas they say they were at risked at force recruitment into Alamara and the movements to that area was in protest in relation to the  presence of Alamara, so they wanted to make a point that that was what happened. But I have been there for some time, I think they got manipulated.” Beyani said.

It can be recalled that tension gripped inside UCCP Haran last July 23 as government forces and other concerned agencies tried to rescue at least 1000 members of lumads both from Davao and Bukidnon who were deceived by militant groups by saying that militarization will harm their lives.

Aside from the militarization, other issues that allegedly prevented the IPs  inside Haran from going back to their ancestral land are human rights abuses allegedly performed by the military and closure of Salugpungan, the school allegedly infiltrated by leftist.

On the part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) Commander Lt. General Aurelio Baladad stressed that there was no militarization, and the presence of military in the area only occurred because of the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA) harassing the tribal community.

“Kaya may military kasi may NPA sa area, the AFP mandate is to protect the people,” Baladad said.

The statement of General Baladad was also confirmed by Tribal leaders in Kapalong and Talaingod, Davao del Norte  led by Datu Nestor Apas saying that Indigenous People (IP)  were not harassed by the military.

“Hindi kami tinatakot, hinaharas ng military, tinutulungan nila kami, ang nagbabanta sa aming mga buhay ay ang NPA,” Datu Apas said.

On the alleged human rights abuse of the military against the IPs in the Region, General Baladad said the military will not tolerate any abuse and if anyone of his men will be found guilty  of such abuse, they will surely punish it.

 “We do not tolerate, we investigate, we punish,” Gen. Baladad said.

On the closure of Salugpungan, Datu Apas said , the school was closed not because of the military but because of request of tribal leaders in the area that were alarmed with the radicalization of students inside the said school.

Contact:

COL EDUARDO B GUBAT (INF) PA

Spokesperson, Eastern Mindanao Command
Mobile Nr: 09173005950
Email: eastmincom.pio2014@gmail.com

CPT ALBERTO C CABER (INF) PA

Chief, Public Information Office
Mobile Nr: 0917-6308-501
Email add: caber.ac@gmail.com and
eastmincom.pio2014@gmail.com

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/115759/diplomatic-faux-pas--afp-misrepresented-un-expert-on-lumad-issue---gabriela-solon

China hits back at US criticism over South China Sea 'restrictions'

From InterAksyon (Aug 11): China hits back at US criticism over South China Sea 'restrictions'



An activist wears a black mask with a message reading ''China Get Out!'' as they protest outside the Chinese consulate in Makati City, Metro Manila on July 7, 2015 against Beijing's activities in the South China Sea. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

China hit back on Monday at US criticism that it restricts navigation and overflights in the South China Sea amid a festering marine territorial dispute with some of its neighbors.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims over the region which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea.

Freedom of overflights and navigation doesn't mean allowing foreign warships and military jets to violate other countries' sovereignty and security, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement to Reuters on Monday, after US Secretary of State John Kerry accused China of restricting such movements in the region last week.

China sees freedom of navigation in the region as key because it is an important conduit for trade and natural resources, the ministry said.

Kerry told a meeting of regional leaders in Kuala Lumpur last week that China's construction of facilities on man-made islands for "military purposes" was raising tension and risked "militarization" by other claimant states.

Kerry also criticized "restrictions" put in place in recent months by China, saying the US would not accept any restrictions on freedom of navigation and overflights.

[Read related story: Kerry says US will not accept restrictions in South China Sea]

China has repeatedly warned Philippine military aircraft away from the artificial islands in the Spratly archipelago of the South China Sea, Philippine military officials have said.

The Chinese navy also issued eight warnings to the crew of a US P8-A Poseidon surveillance aircraft when it conducted overflights in the area in May, according to CNN, which was aboard the US aircraft.

In June, China said it would soon complete a phase of its reclamation projects, adding it would continue to build facilities on the man-made islands.

Ongoing reclamation activities in the Spratly Islands include civilian facilities for the "public good" including hospitals, maritime research institutes, lighthouses and search and rescue facilities, the Foreign Ministry said.

A Philippine lawmaker said on Monday he had information that a Chinese coast guard ship dropped anchor more than a month ago near the rusting Philippine Navy transport ship BRP Sierra Madre, in the disputed Second Thomas Shoal (known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines).

"I think China has no intention of leaving the area and they are waiting for our ship to collapse or prevent us from reinforcing that ship," Congressman Francisco Acedillo, a former air force pilot, said at a naval base in Manila.

Acedillo said the presence of a Chinese ship within Second Thomas Shoal was a serious threat to the Philippines.

Second Thomas Shoal, is an uninhabited shoal/atoll in the Spratly group of islands in the South China Sea, 105 nautical miles west of Palawan, Philippines. Claimed by several nations, the shoal is currently militarily occupied by the Philippines.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/115784/china-hits-back-at-us-criticism-over-south-china-sea-restrictions

Two soldiers die in Sulu ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): Two soldiers die in Sulu ambush

Two soldiers were killed in an ambush staged by suspected members of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Sulu, a top military official disclosed Monday.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, identified the slain soldiers as PFC Rey Lucasan and PFC Bryan Sayson both assigned with the Alpha Company of the Army’s 35th Infantry Battalion.

Arrojado said the duo, dressed in civilian clothes, were driving motorcycles on the way back to their detachment when four ASG members ambushed them around 5 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Latih, Patikul, Sulu.

Arrojado said that based on police investigation the ASG members who staged the ambushed were followers of the Ajang-Ajang group led by Muammar Askali.

Arrojado said three of the four suspects were identified as Alvin Jumaidi, a certain Surata and a certain Mujir.

He said that Jumaidi was apprehended last May 25 for illegal possession of firearms but was later released on orders of the court.

He said the cadavers of Lucasan and Sayson were transported to their respective hometowns aboard a commercial ferry via this city.

He said Lucasan is from Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur while Sayson is from Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

Meanwhile, Arrojado said that troops have clashed with more or less 10 gunmen believed to be the ambushers while in pursuit of the suspects.

Arrojado said the clash ensued around 7:45 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Latih, Patikul, Sulu.

He said the firefight lasted for about five minutes after which the ASG members fled.

He said the troops have recovered from the clash site an M-16 Armalite rifle, a caliber .30 rifle and a cellular phone.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=791522

NPA rebels burn trailer truck in Catanduanes

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): NPA rebels burn trailer truck in Catanduanes

New People’s Army(NPA) rebels set on fire a trailer truck at Sitio Sumingit of Barangay Bugao, Bagasamoc town in the island-province of Catanduanes at about 5 p.m. Aug. 9.

A report received on Monday by the Philippines News Agency from Capt. Mardjorie Paimela P. Panesa, spokesperson of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based at Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur, said seven armed rebels believed to be under Michael M. Guerrero alias Melwin did the burning of the heavy vehicle owned by the CADVEL Construction.

The firm has an ongoing bridge construction in the area.

The Philippine National Police Catanduanes provincial office is still investigating the incident.

Previous incidents of burning of heavy equipment by NPA members had been claimed by the dissident movement as being due to non-payment of revolutionary taxes.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=791523

US Navy men gear at teaching, learning in Pangasinan

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): US Navy men gear at teaching, learning in Pangasinan

Some 70 personnel of the United States (US) ship Mercy is looking at sharing knowledge with the people of Pangasinan.

"Knowledge is far more important," remarked Capt. Brian Delamont, deputy commander of the Pacific Partnership 2015 in tandem with the province of Pangasinan.

Delamont added they expect to learn a lot from Pangasinan, citing that oftentimes, they learn more from the host nations.

Likewise, according to Col. Gregg Montalto, the group's director of medical operations, their focus is on the "transfer of knowledge."

He said they would like to impart their expertise on services in medical, veterinary, and disaster-preparedness and learn, as well from the Pangasinan people, especially from the concerned provincial government employees.

Montalto, a pediatrician, further underscored the importance of the "cultural context" and partnership with the locals, like with the provincial government in this case, in providing services to the people.

"I'm a pediatrician and I have found that when I take care of a child in San Diego (California) or Washington, D.C., it's different from taking care of a child when I was in Kenya, or Uganda, or the Philippines, or Papua New Guinea," he said.

He also vowed to maintain contact with the province to continue the established partnership

On the other hand, Governor Amado Espino Jr. expressed gratitude to the US navy team for their advocacy to "teach us new techniques" following the international standards.

"Here's another manifestation of the friendship between the Philippines and the United States," he added

Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Region, starting in 2006.

In Pangasinan, Pacific Partnership 2015 activities starts from Aug. 10 to 12. The team just came from Roxas City in Capiz and Subic Bay in Olongapo, where the Mercy ship is currently docked.

The 70 ship officers include Filipinos like Lt. Cmdr. Elmer Jimenez, the medical planner for the Philippines, who hails from Calasiao, Pangasinan.

Jimenez lauded the provincial government's efforts, citing "a lot of improvements" in the province.

The group engaged in various activities related to medical, health, veterinary, and disaster-preparedness in partnership with the provincial government.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=791764

Cagayan naval base set to undergo upgrade

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): Cagayan naval base set to undergo upgrade

A ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official announced that plans are afoot to upgrade its Naval Base Camilo Osias which is located in Sta. Ana town, Cagayan.

"(What's being developed there) is our capability to respond and to monitor whatever activities are happening in that area, to protect our interests in the north," Naval Task Group 11 head Capt. Albert Mogol said.

Naval Base Camilo Osias, which is equipped with an airstrip, is presently addressing humanitarian and disaster response activities.

He did not give details on the upgrade plans for security reasons.

Mogol's statement is very timely considering that activities of foreign poachers and other intruders are increasing in Cagayan waters along with those of nearby Batanes.

Recently, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that even Taiwan Coast Guard ships have been entering waters near Batanes and engaged its smaller patrol boats in standoffs.

Earlier, the PN announced it will set up more "littoral observation stations" in Northern Luzon to beef up its monitoring capability.

This is to expand and improve the PN's maritime situational awareness capability to detect, monitor and if necessary, drive away intruding water craft from one's territorial waters.

Mogol said these stations are needed as the country has a large coastline amounting to 35,000 square kilometers.

He added that the PN has already established "littoral observatory station" in Basco, Batanes to help monitor the entry of foreign vessels.

Marine troopers are manning the facility, which shares a building with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration.

In September 2013, then Armed Forces Northern Luzon Command chief Gregorio Pio Catapang announced a proposal to put up littoral observatory stations in Batanes, Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, and Aurora.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791460

Armed AW-109Es commissioned Monday; 2 Australian donated LCHs blessed

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): Armed AW-109Es commissioned Monday; 2 Australian donated LCHs blessed

The Philippine Navy (PN) formally commissioned into service its two armed AgustaWestland AW-109E "Power" helicopters in simple ceremonies at Naval Station Jose Andrada, on Roxas Boulevard, Manila Monday.

The helicopters are armed with .50 caliber machinegun pods and 2.75 inch rocket launchers.

Cmdr. Lued Lincuna, PN public affairs office chief, said that armed AW-109Es are also equipped with maritime air surveillance capability, amphibious air support operations and weather search radar and forward looking infrared systems that enhances the Navy's maritime air surveillance and close air support for ground troops.

The 8 a.m. commissioning ceremonies were spearheaded by outgoing PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan.

The last two AW-109E airframes arrived in the Philippines last December.

This is part of the five-helicopter deal, worth Php1.33-billion, signed by the Philippines with AgustaWestland early 2013.

Three of the AW-109s were delivered and commissioned in Dec. 22, 2013.

Millan said the acquisition of the armed AW-109Es are part of the PN's efforts in developing a robust island defense force and becoming an effective instrument of national development.

Meanwhile, the two Australian-donated landing craft heavies (LCHs) were also blessed Monday.

The two LCHs vessels were christened as BRP Ivatan (AT-298) and BRP Batak (AT-299) to preserve the distinctiveness of the two ethnic groups of Palawan and Batanes.

These ships were donated by the Australian government last January. They arrived in Sangley Point, Cavite last Aug. 7.

Milan said the addition of these vessels translates into the boosting of the capability of the PN to transport personnel, equipment and aid during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. They will also be useful in transporting troops from one operational area to another.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791560

Army vows to rescue tribal leaders abducted by rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): Army vows to rescue tribal leaders abducted by rebels

As the nation celebrates International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day, the Philippine Army (PA) has assured its support to rescue the kidnapped tribal leaders in Davao Del Norte Monday.

This year marks the 66th year of the establishment of IHL.

"With our commitment to the IHL, it is imperative that we deliver the Army's all out support to sustain forces on the ground, the 10th Infantry Division in particular, who are are now in an effort to rescue the kidnapped tribal leaders," PA head Lt. Gen. Eduardo M. Año said.

68th Infantry Battalion head Lt. Col. Vicente Edgardo De Ocampo and his officers are now assisting local officials in locating the victims as well as in the filing of criminal charges against the kidnappers.

The New People's Army-Southern Mindanao Regional Committee allegedly kidnapped four tribal leaders identified as Datu Danilo Angcomog; Datu Laris Landakay; Datu Jovanie Angcomog; and Datu Kalumpot Dalon in Sitio Bulo, Barangay Dagohoy, Talaingod, Davao Del Norte last Aug. 1

Accordingly, the said tribal leaders went to the area to settle a “Maghat” or tribal feud regarding a certain “Sapunan Baylohanon Case”.

The four are the witnesses of human trafficking cases which resulted to the death of Datu Lito “Lolong” Lundia inside the UCCP Haran Compound, Davao City.

The victims are residents of Sitio Inayaman, San Jose, San Fernando, Bukidnon.

Barangay chairman Jose Baon and Sitio leader Nanding Dungutan Angcomog already reported the incident to the municipal police station.

Concerned Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and tribal chieftains of the said town already held an emergency meeting in order to make a resolution addressed to the New People's Army kidnappers for the safe release of the victims.

Año reiterated that soldiers should commit itself to the proper conduct during operations, the practice of clear command responsibility and the humane treatment of combatants and non-combatants alike.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791798

New PN chief cites need for more 'firepower'

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): New PN chief cites need for more 'firepower'

To ensure that the Philippine Navy will be able to carry out its mandate of protecting the country's maritime sovereignty, newly-appointed PN flag officer-in-command Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad has stressed the need for the acquisition of more modern and potent naval equipment.

"The mission of the PN and the Armed Forces is to protect our sovereignty and with our limited resources, we need to cover and patrol an intensive coastline in order to ensure or impose that we have sovereignty over (those) seas," he said in Filipino.

The Philippines coastline is estimated at over 35,000 square kilometers and is considered one of the largest in the world.

To patrol such a vast area, the PN only has 100 ships of various sizes and vintages and 15 aircraft to employ for that vital mission.

To ensure that Filipino sovereignty over those waters remains uncontested, Taccad said there is a need to acquire much-needed firepower in terms of more modern naval vessels and aircraft.

"Once we acquire that firepower, we will be able, more or less, to deter any naval force that would try to stop us from ensuring or employing our assets to assert sovereignty over our waters," the new PN chief stressed.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791786

(News Feature) AW-109Es, Navy's fastest helicopter in service

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): (News Feature) AW-109Es, Navy's fastest helicopter in service

For Lt. Cmdr. Ariel Coloma, the AgustaWestland AW-109E "Power" naval helicopter and its armed counterpart, is the most maneuverable and fastest aircraft in the inventory of the Philippine Navy.

He said the AW-109E can cruise at 140 knots or 20 knots better than Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm Bo 105 they used to fly.

The last two and armed version of the AW-109E were commissioned Monday.

This is part of the five-helicopter deal, worth Php1.33-billion, signed by the Philippines with AgustaWestland early 2013.

Coloma, a Navy Air Group pilot with 750 flying hours, also said that their newest helicopter can also be made fly at a sizzling 160 knots.

But he will not recommend it during normal operations as this is close to their never-exceed 168 knot limit which can seriously damage or destroy the AW-109E if persisted.

Another interesting feature of this aircraft is the autopilot feature which "can be use in three axis" of flight which can greatly help the pilot in controlling the helicopter.

Coloma also said that the AW-109Es have a ferry range of 300 nautical miles and is very maneuverable for its size.

The AW-109 is a three-ton class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt and Whitney PW206C engines.

The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles.

The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.

The AW-109 has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions.

It's superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost effective maritime helicopter in its class.

For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures.

The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW-109 to perform its mission when many others helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.

Over 550 AW-109 "Power" and AW-109 light utility helicopters have been ordered for commercial, parapublic and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791830

President Aquino cites need to further lift the Armed Forces' capacity, welfare

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): President Aquino cites need to further lift the Armed Forces' capacity, welfare

President Benigno Aquino III highlighted on Monday the need to further support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in line with their job to secure the country's territory as well as aid in rescue and relief activities.

In his speech during the change-of-command ceremony at the Philippine Navy headquarters along Roxas Blvd. in Manila, the Chief Executive said the continued expansion of the domestic economy has enabled the government to also address the needs of the Navy.

He cited the arrival last Friday of two Landing Craft Heavies (LCHs) from Australia, which were donated to the Philippines to help in future relief efforts.

He said the process to acquire three additional ships for the PN is also ongoing.

"Ito pong ating mga inisyatiba, nakatutok pa rin sa pagbibigay-lakas at kakayahan sa ating unipormadong hanay," he stressed.

The President pointed out that being the Armed Forces' Commander-in-Chief, he knows that the uniformed personnel are always ready to secure the safety of the country even in bad times and inclement weather.

"Hindi man nakukuhanan ng litrato o video; natatabunan man ng ibang balita sa diyaryo; mulat akong hindi kayo napapanghinaan ng loob, buong-buo ang inyong dedikasyon sa pagtupad sa sinumpaan ninyong tungkulin. Saludo ako sa ipinapakita ninyong wagas na serbisyo para sa bandila at sa sambayanang Pilipino," he said.

Thus, President Aquino stated the need to also take care of the uniformed personnel's needs.

"Naniniwala po tayo: Kayong mga kumakalinga sa bayan at sa mga Pilipino, kailangan ding arugain ng estado. Positibong siklo naman ito: Sa pag-unlad ninyo at paghusay ng inyong serbisyo, mas mapapalapit sa inyo ang tao; lalo na dahil nakikita nilang sulit ang ipinupuhunan sa inyo ng lipunan," he said.

"Ang resulta naman nito, nakikibalikat sa inyo ang mamamayan, gagaan ang inyong trabaho, kabilang na ang trabaho namin sa sangay ng Ehekutibo, at sa kabuuan, mapapadali ang pag-unlad ng buong bansa," he stressed.

The Philippine Navy is now headed by Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad, who succeeded Vice Admiral Jesus Millan.

The President cited that just like the former Flag Officers-in-Command of the Navy - from Vice Admiral Alex Pama, Vice Admiral Jolu Alano to Vice Admiral Millan - he does not personally know Rear Admiral Taccad.

He, however, believes that just like his predecessors, Taccad would be an effective leader who will institute reforms.

"Lahat sila, buong-loob na pinaunlad ang ating Hukbong Dagat. Imbes na maging pabigat, naging kabalikat natin sila sa pagpasan at pagresolba sa mga pagsubok na ating sinuong at hinarap," the President said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791773

Newly-appointed PN chief vows to turn service into a 'formidable' one

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10): Newly-appointed PN chief vows to turn service into a 'formidable' one

Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad, who assumed command of the Philippine Navy on Monday, vowed to turn the PN into a "formidable" naval force in Southeast Asia.

Taccad replaced PN flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan who formally retired after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Taccad is the 35th PN chief. His assumption of command ceremonies was presided by President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Naval Station Jose Andrada, the Navy headquarters on Roxas Blvd., Manila.

In his speech, the newly-appointed PN chief recalled how a senior cadet at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) asked him in 1980 on why he wanted to join the Navy.

“I answered that I would like to help make it as one of the most formidable force in the Asia-Pacific region,” Taccad, a second year cadet at the time, said.

“Upon joining the Navy after graduation, that has been my goal in every position I landed – to make the Navy a notch better than before,” he added.

The new PN chief is a member of PMA Class of 1982.

Taccad said he has been assigned to various positions in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the last one was as the Navy’s vice commander, and those posts “strengthened my resolve to achieve that goal, that dream.”

He added the “honor and privilege” to serve as the Navy’s 35th flag officer-in-command is a “fitting culmination to cap a career-long of pursuit for that formidable Navy.”

“Together with the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees, I shall steer the Philippine Navy towards continued transformation, modernization and professionalization and overall progress in order to provide a maritime defense and security that is expected from a strong and formidable Navy,” the PN chief stressed.

Taccad said he is confident to assume the Navy leadership, noting that he has with him the “devoted, fearless, courageous and loyal men” with him.

“And as maritime security challenges continuously evolve, I will keep counting on each one of you as we stand together being the gallant protectors of the Philippine archipelago, our country, our home,” he said.

With the PN playing a major role in protecting Philippine interests in the disputed portions of the West Philippine Sea, Taccad pledged to carry on with the Navy’s “outstanding performance and we shall continue this while undertaking our mandated tasks.”

“We will continue to protect our seas and secure the future of our nation and its people. We shall continue to be a dependable naval force, prompt in response and sharp in action,” he stressed.

“We will persistently aim for a stable, productive and constructive relationship with our maritime stakeholder and partner navies to preserve the peace in the Asia-Pacific region,” Taccad said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791774