EDITORIAL - A forgotten threat

Editorial posted to the Philippine Star (Aug 25): EDITORIAL - A forgotten threat     

       

Two suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf were killed in an encounter with Army forces yesterday in Patikul, Sulu, the military reported. The bandits are still holding 11 hostages, five of them foreigners, in their jungle lairs in Sulu.

The fighting erupted just days after two members of the Philippine Coast Guard who were snatched by the Abu Sayyaf in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte last May managed to escape from their captors. The two reported that while in captivity, they served as cooks and even masseurs of the bandits. Perhaps the other hostages have also become part of the unpaid household staff of the Abu Sayyaf.

It takes organization and logistics to keep hostages for many months. Some of the captives have been held for about two years. How do the bandits get their supplies? They can’t subsist forever on sweet potato and crops foraged from the forest. Don’t they have relatives in the residential areas of Sulu?

The Abu Sayyaf is still holding 11 hostages, including a Cambodian, Dutch, Japanese, Malaysian and South Korean. All of these hostages have relatives waiting for their return in their respective countries. Their continued captivity reinforces perceptions that visitors face serious security risks in the Philippines. Yet there seems to be little urgency in rescuing the hostages.

It’s not enough to engage the bandits in periodic armed skirmishes. The government should also discourage the release of hostages in exchange for “board and lodging fees.” Any payment makes the crime profitable and encourages more kidnappings for ransom. There are ways of tracking down individuals, following their movements and compelling them to reveal their lairs. The local government has a network at the grassroots that can be mobilized to gather information on armed elements. The government must show more interest and energy in confronting this persistent scourge.

http://www.philstar.com/opinion/2015/08/26/1492347/editorial-forgotten-threat

Authorities get Sayyaf leader in Zamboanga

From The Standard (Aug 27): Authorities get Sayyaf leader in Zamboanga

An urban operations leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group who had a P4.3 million bounty on his head was captured Tuesday night in Barangay Poblacion, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay, Police Officer 2 Jonas Macasa Jr., staff of the Public Information Office of the Police regional Office 9 said Wednesday.

 

Government intelligence operatives captured Ibni Acosta, a known leader of the ASG’s Urban Terrorist Group, during stakeout operations.

Macasa said Acosta was cornered at around   11:30 p.m.   at his hideout by joint elements of the Zamboanga Sibugay police, the Army’s 6th Special Forces and 304th Intelligence Service Group of the Air Force.

“Arrested person was involved in the Sipadan kidnapping and has an existing warrant of arrest docketed under criminal case nr 122473-122493 (21 counts) for kidnapping, serious illegal detention with ransom,” Macasa said.

Acosta was brought to the headquarters of the 6th SF Battalion in Barangay Libertad for interrogation and then turned over to the Tungawan Municipal Police Station for booking procedure. He was subsequently brought to Zamboanga City by the operating team for proper disposition.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/08/27/authorities-get-sayyaf-leader-in-zamboanga/

Noy, US officer discuss sea spat

From The Standard (Aug 27): Noy, US officer discuss sea spat

The commander of the United States Pacific Command discussed the territorial conflict in the West Philippine Sea during his courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III yesterday.

“The two of them discussed how to enhance our bilateral relations further. They also talked about the West Philippine Sea issue,” Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said in an interview after the closed-door meeting at the Palace.

“Admiral Harris also reiterated the commitment of the US to help us in enhancing our capability through training and joint military exercises,” Gazmin added.

Harris is scheduled to meet today (Thursday) with Armed Forces Western Command chief Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez in Palawan, the province nearest the disputed Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea.

There has been no word, though, whether Harris will join an aerial surveillance mission over the West Philippine Sea as did Admiral Scott Swift, commander of the US Pacific Fleet.

Harris was accompanied to the Palace by US Ambassador to Manila Philip Goldberg, USPACOM Foreign Affairs Policy Advisor Christopher Marut, Senior Defense Official Col. Earnest Lee and Political Military Affairs Chief Marc Jackson.

Aside from Gazmin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri were also present during the meeting.

Harris also met with Gazmin and Iriberri at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday morning where they discussed Washington’s defense and security strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.

In a statement, the AFP said the discussions “focused on safeguarding freedom of the seas, deterring conflict and coercion, and promoting adherence to international law and standards in order to preserve the peace and security the Asia-Pacific region has enjoyed for the past 70 years.”

“A frank and honest exchange of ideas regarding the evolving security challenges in the region as a result of natural disasters and issues involving the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea ensued during the dialogue,” the AFP said.

Harris also discussed the latest US Defense Department Asia Pacific Maritime Security Strategy Report with his Philippine counterparts.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/08/27/noy-us-officer-discuss-sea-spat/

Jailed for 11 years, political prisoner's rebellion case stalled by 'identity crisis'

From InterAksyon (Aug 26): Jailed for 11 years, political prisoner's rebellion case stalled by 'identity crisis'



Political prisoner Eduardo Serrano holds up a clenched fist as he is taken back to the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame. (photo by Bernard Testa, InterAksyon.com)

The rebellion case against a political prisoner who has been detained for 11 years was further delayed Wednesday over a literal “identity crisis.”

InterAksyon.com came upon Eduardo Serrano just as he was being taken back to the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame on orders of the Quezon City regional trial court.

Jun Zamora of the human rights group Karapatan, which has been monitoring Serrano’s case, explained that his arraignment had been deferred to September 16 to allow the Court of Appeals to establish the political prisoner’s real identity.

Serrano, who human rights activists maintain is a consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and thus supposedly protected from arrest and prosecution under the Joint Agreement on Security and Immunity Guarantees, was arrested in May 2004.

However, when the military presented him to media, he was introduced as Rogelio Villanueva, supposedly a New People’s Army member.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/116664/jailed-for-11-years-political-prisoners-rebellion-case-stalled-by-identity-crisis

‘Philippine villagers hiding hostages’

From the New Straits Times (Aug 26): ‘Philippine villagers hiding hostages’
 

KOTA KINABALU: Hostages are being kept out of sight of the Philippine armed forces by Abu Sayaff militants with the help of the local community in Indanan, Sulu.

This prevents the army from tracking down their whereabouts as intelligence indicates the militants and their captives are mobile.

Philippine Armed Forces Joint Task Group Sulu public affairs officer Captain Antonio Bulao told the New Straits Times the al-Qaeda-linked militants, who were responsible for beheading several hostages, were getting support from local residents because of blood ties.

“They (supporters) help to hide captives before the militants move them into the jungle.

“We are facing difficulties in locating the militants because of the terrain.

“They are well-versed with the terrain, which is mostly jungles and hills,” he said yesterday, adding that the army was combing several areas.

Last week, the security forces engaged in a gun battle with the militants after the armed forces stormed a Abu Sayyaf stronghold in Indanan, Jolo, to rescue 11 hostages after extremists beheaded the 12th captive.

The hostages included two Malaysians — Thien Nyuk Fun, 50, and Bernard Then Ted Fen, 39 — who had been held captive since they were kidnapped from Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan on May 14.

During the gunfight, two coastguard personnel, who were kidnapped on May 4, escaped and were later rescued by the security forces.

Bulao said the militants were aware of the armed forces’ movements and their rescue mission, following tip-offs from relatives and supporters.

“However, the villagers have also been feeding information to us because they want this to end.

“That is how we know the captives were placed under the care of villagers.”  

In Kuala Lumpur, Then’s wife, Chan Wai See, said Abu Sayyaf members had threatened to behead her husband if the ransom was not paid.

Chan, who had spoken to her husband on Saturday, was quoted as saying that Then was next in line to be beheaded and pleaded with the government to save him.

She last spoke to the militants in June shortly before police advised her to switch off her handphone.

The recent call was made by the captors at 5pm after Chan switched on her phone following news of unrest in southern Philippines.

On Saturday, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman said it would take time to rescue Thien and Then due to the huge ransom demand but said police were doing their best.

“We have been informed they are safe. We are in constant communication with the Philippine authority. Efforts to secure their release will take time as negotiation is taking place,” he said.

Soon after Thien and Then were kidnapped, kidnappers demanded RM30 million per person. The amount was reduced by 50 per cent.

http://www.nst.com.my/node/97850

MILF: JICA, BTC, MILF turnover Quick Impact Project to residents of Upi, Maguindanao

Posted to the MILF Website (Aug 26): JICA, BTC, MILF turnover Quick Impact Project to residents of Upi, Maguindanao

A two-classroom school building financed through the Quick Impact Project (QIP) under the Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro (CCDP-B) was formally turned-over to residents and school administration of Kibleg Elementary School, Barangay Kibleg, Upi, Maguindanao on Monday, August 24.

Dr Mohammad Yacob, Executive Director of Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) explained that the QIP’s for conflict affected-areas in Mindanao was initiated by JICA President Dr Akihiko Tanaka and MILF Chairman Alhadj Murad Ebrahim after the signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) in Malacańan, Palace in March 2014.

The BDA and other stakeholders have contributed in one way or the other to the successful implementation of the project.

Tanaka explained why JICA and MILF chose QIPs. He said “Both JICA and our MILF counterpart believe that QIP would be a great way for Bangsamoro communities to feel the peace dividends and for people to remain hopeful about the benefits of the peace process and continue to support it, they need to be assured that the CAB will bring improvements in their lives.” 

Tanaka said “The QIP is actually a small scale local project but implemented in a short period of time that can address urgent community needs.”

The QIP is implemented in 20 sites; in Maguindanao, Cotabato, Lanao del Sur and del Norte, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Compostela Valley, and Davao Oriental. “These communities are chosen because they are among the most affected by conflict,” he pointed out.  

Quick impact project he said is just one element of their broader projects in the region. The construction of school and multipurpose buildings and solar dryers with ware houses in the conflict affected-communities started last March 2015.

In 2013 the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and JICA have started the CCDP-B. There are cooperation activities under the CCDP-B like assistance public consultation for drafting a Bangsamoro Basic Law, supporting the drafting of Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP), human resource development, capacity building seminars in Tokyo and other parts of Japan to acquire more learnings on political system and governance, and the implementation of QIPs.

Tanaka also recalled the breakdown of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) that induced frustrations of some MILF commanders which led to the 2008 war against government troops that displaced half-a-million people in Mindanao; and recently the January 25 Mamasapano incident, and the prolonged deliberations on the Bangsamor Basic Law (BBL) in the lower and upper houses of congress that may affect the 17-year peace negotiations.

However, he said, “The Japanese government and JICA remained steadfast in their commitment in supporting the peace process in Mindanao”.

Tanaka also reminded the parents and teachers on the importance of education. “We all know the importance of good education.  In addition to qualified and passionate teacher; studying in an environment that is conducive to learning is the key to a quality education. With these new classrooms, students in the community have access to basic education,” he said. 

He asked students in a Filipino language, “Masaya ba kayo sa bagong classroom?” (Are you happy with these new classrooms”) and the crowd said “Opo!” (Yes!). And he asked again, “Nag-aaral ba kayo ng mabuti?” (Are you studying hard?). The students replied “opo” means yes and Dr Tanaka said “very good.” 

Tanaka advised the pupils of Kibleg Elementary School to strive harder in their studies. He said “You’re all have a very bright future ahead of you, please study hard and listen to your teachers, your parents always tell you that education is one of the greatest things that they can give you. I fully agree with them, education is something that no one else can take away from you. Education will pave the way for your personal growth and help you achieve a brighter future.

“Let us all work together for better future and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro,” he appealed to his audience. 

Tanaka promised that JICA will remain true to its commitment of promoting peace and to further strengthen its support in Mindanao.  

The first visit of Tanaka in Mindanao was held in May 2012 and this is his first trip abroad as JICA new President.  The JICA President by then was fully committed to support the peace process and socio-economic development of Mindanao.

On the other hand, BTC Chairman Mohagher Iqbal was joined by his fellow Commissioners Ebrahim Ali and Melanio Ulama, a Teduray Timuay (Datu) and a native of Upi.

Iqbal thanked the JICA and the Japanese government especially JICA President’s commitment for attending and leading the turnover ceremony.

He appreciated the role of Japan through the International Monitoring Team and the International Contact Group’s active role in the government-MILF peace process.

“Japan have outstanding role in the GPH-MILF peace process…Japan has been journeying with us in terms of socio-economic development in the future Bangsamoro entity, and into the entire Mindanao. Japan is here to help our people,” Iqbal said.

Iqbal told the audience that BTC’s Socio-Economic Office has received information that the school building built in Kibleg is the best constructed building among the 20 projects all-over Mindanao.  

He congratulates the constructor (Angkat Const. and Supplies), the school principal and members of faculty, pupils and parents.

“Japan has been investing too much even without the peace process succeeding, even without seeing that peace process is really successful. Japan is already with us investing so much money for our people,” he added.  

He was emphasizing that Japan is investing even without expecting something. “Maybe if there is peace Mindanao, then natural that Japan will become our partner in developing our area in the Bangsamoro,” said Iqbal.

Talking about BBL, he said “We will not know what will happen to the Bangsamoro Law…there is hope that BBL will be delivered but there’s no assurance. We need to work hard at least we can make a difference so that BBL will be passed.”

Upi Mayor Ramon Piang Sr said in his closing remarks, “Thank you Japan for helping these small children. We believe that it is a manifestation that Japan through JICA trust the MILF because this quick impact project is a confidence building program of the MILF and people of Japan.”

“The people of Upi, Mr Chairman (Iqbal) and of course Mr President (Tanaka) are behind the MILF in its quest for peace in this part of Central Mindanao. We sympathize with the MILF and pray with them that government and the legislature of this country will be able to think faster and see the impact of peace in Mindanao,” he stressed.

Piang said that they have suffered from violence in the past and he doesn’t like to repeat this negative impact of war to his constituents especially the students.  

He also said that aside from this project, JICA and the Government of Japan gave them other infrastructure projects and capacity building programs which are beneficial to the growth of Upi.

Other highlights of the program were cutting of ribbon and unveiling of the stakeholders’ memorial plate with Japan and Philippine Flags, Logo of JICA and MILF, J-BIRD, BTC and BDA that says: “Quick Impact Project Initiative by MILF Chairman Alhadj Murad Ebrahim and JICA President Akihiko Tanaka under the Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro”.

It is expected that the president of JICA will also turn over other quick impact projects located in 20 sites in Mindanao.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/543-jica-btc-milf-turnover-quick-impact-project-to-residents-of-upi-maguindanao

MILF: JICA President Tanaka visits Camp Darapanan

Posted to the MILF Website (Aug 26): JICA President Tanaka visits Camp Darapanan



Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Akihiko Tanaka together with his delegation paid a visit to the MILF leadership Yesterday, August 25 at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. They were cordially welcomed by MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, First Vice Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar, Second Vice Chairman Aleem Pangalian Solaiman and majority of the Central Committee Officials.

It is noteworthy to remember that JICA President Tanaka and MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad met on March 28, 2014, after the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro and have agreed and committed that in order to create confidence and mutual trust among stakeholders of the Peace process, peace dividends must be realized soonest in the conflict affected areas, thus Quick impact projects were designed, and implemented. 

On August 24, the JICA delegation was in Barangay Kibleg, North Upi, where they attended and witnessed the turn-over of a two classroom school building.  MILF Chief Negotiator and Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, Commissioners Ebrahim Ali and Timuay Melanio Ulama also attended the turn-over. Upi Mayor Ramon Piang was also present.

Chairman Al Haj Murad, on behalf of the Central Committee and the Bangsamoro people expressed thanks and gratitude to Pres. Tanaka, JICA and the Japanese Government for their support to the peace process. Such quick impact projects are products of the GPH-MILF Peace process and gives motivation to stakeholders for their continuing support to the peace process, Chairman Al Haj Murad said.

Tanaka in his meaningful message expressed hope that the QIP will benefit people both practically as well as symbolically. They have the assumption that they need to deliver as inclusively as possible thru out the conflict affected areas. 

He was so happy indeed that they were able to attend the turnover of the first facility completed under the QIP at Upi. Nineteen more facilities are on its way and to be completed and delivered in 2 to 3 months’ time. Pres Tanaka said that "though the projects are small in scale, we hope to deliver a message to the people that peace process is really going on and there is genuine possibility of enjoying peace".

Tanaka also said that, in addition to QIP, JICA is conducting various technical projects on capacity development, prepares granting farm-to-market road projects that could improve agriculture in the area of Bangsamoro. He thanked the leadership of the MILF Central Committee for their support and acceptance of the programs. 

Tanaka is hopeful that under the leadership of President Aquino, a solution will be reached. He reiterated that they will continue to work with the MILF in support of the peace process.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/542-jica-president-tanaka-visits-camp-darapanan

2 Moro commanders forge peace covenant

From the Philippine Star (Aug 26): 2 Moro commanders forge peace covenant



The two Moro commanders, both members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), fought in the past for strategic areas in Datu Saudi and nearby towns of Maguindanao. Google Earth

Two Moro commanders on Tuesday ended through a peace covenant a deadly rido involving their clans who figured in deadly encounters in years past.

The rido protagonists, Commanders Maten and Rambo, both belong to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), swore over the Qur’an, inside a mosque at the town proper of Maguindanao’s Datu Saudi town, to start anew as siblings in Islamic faith.

The term rido is a generic term for clan war in most southern ethnic dialects.

The two commanders agreed to have their rido settled amicably by Mayor Samsudin Dimaukom of Datu Saudi town and an influential Muslim cleric, Imam Wahid Tundok.

It took the mayor a month to negotiate their reconciliation, according to employees of the Datu Saudi municipal government.

Tundok, a foreign-trained Islamic preacher, is chief of the MILF’s 108th Base Command, whose forces are scattered in Datu Saudi and nearby towns in the second district of Maguindanao.

The families of Maten and Rambo had figured in more than a dozen deadly encounters that left fatalities on both sides and caused dislocation of villagers in affected areas.

Dimaukom told The STAR he is thankful to both commanders for agreeing to a diplomatic resolution of their rido.

He said Tundok also helped pacify Maten and Rambo, who are related to each other by blood and through intermarriages of relatives.

The two groups fought for control of strategic areas in Datu Saudi and nearby towns.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/08/26/1492440/2-moro-commanders-forge-peace-covenant

Abu leader in Sipadan kidnapping captured

From the Philippine Star (Aug 26): Abu leader in Sipadan kidnapping captured 



The Abu Sayyaf group seized 21 hostages from the dive resort island of Sipadan on April 23, 2000, which were brought to an Abu Sayyaf base in Jolo, Sulu. Philstar.com/File photo 

Combined government forces on Tuesday captured a leader of the Abu Sayyaf terror group believed to be involved in a kidnapping incident 15 years ago.

Lt. Col. Audi Mongao, spokesman of Army’s 1st Division, identified the suspect as Ibni Acosta, captured around 10:26 p.m. Tuesday at Barangay Poblacion.

Acosta was cornered by the combined forces of the Special Forces Battalion,
provincial police of Zamboanga Sibugay and intelligence unit of the Philippine Air Force through a warrant of arrest.

According to Mongao, Acosta has a standing warrant of arrest, issued by the Regional Trial Court in Pasig City, for 21 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with 2000 Sipadan kidnappings.

The Abu Sayyaf group, in April 2000, reportedly barged in a dive resort island of Sipadan, taking 21 hostages, including ten Malaysians, nine Europeans and two Filipino resort workers.
 
The kidnap victims were released separately after payment of huge ransom in dollars.

Acosta was brought and placed under police tactical interrogation at the police headquarters of the region and would be properly turned over to the court.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/08/26/1492494/abu-leader-sipadan-kidnapping-captured

US vows to help Philippines in intel gathering

From the Philippine Star (Aug 26): US vows to help Philippines in intel gathering



The need to enhance the Philippines’s security capabilities was discussed during the meeting of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Pacific Command chief Adm. Harry Harris in Camp Aguinaldo.

The United States on Wednesday vowed to help the Philippines strengthen its intelligence gathering capabilities as the two countries agreed to work together to maintain regional stability.

The need to enhance the Philippines’s security capabilities was discussed during the meeting of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Pacific Command chief Adm. Harry Harris in Camp Aguinaldo.

“It was agreed that developing the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is of paramount importance, specifically in the areas of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and command and control,” Defense department spokesman Peter Galvez said in a statement.

“They agreed that they will be assessing how best they can assist us in those areas,” he added in a separate phone interview.

Galvez could not provide specifics as to how the US plans to boost the defense capabilities of the Philippines, its oldest ally in Asia.

The two countries, nevertheless, agreed to cooperate in information-sharing and in helping maintain regional stability.

“The Secretary of National Defense and the Commander of the US Pacific Command shared the sense that the Philippines and the US will continue to work together to enhance regional security,” Galvez said.

“In addition to building the AFP’s capability, there was also an agreement to cooperate on information sharing through the crafting of a General Security of Military Information Agreement,” he added.

When asked if the information-sharing agreement will cover the South China Sea dispute, Galvez replied: “It will be all-encompassing. It will cover all security concerns including maritime issues, anti-terrorism efforts and other transnational security issues.”

Galvez said Harris had also acknowledged that enhanced information sharing would further enhance the interoperability between the AFP and the US Pacific Command.
Harris arrived in Manilafor a three-day visit that aims to boost the security ties between the Philippines and the US.

He called on AFP chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri and Gazmin in Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday morning before meeting with National Coast Watch Council Undersecretary Jose Alano in Manila in the afternoon. Harris capped his courtesy calls with a meeting with President Aquino in Malacañang.

Harris is also scheduled to meet on Thursday with AFP Western Command chief Vice Adm. Alexander Lopez in Palawan, the province nearest the disputed Spratlys chain.
AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said Harris had briefed Iriberri about Washington’s maritime security strategy in the Asia Pacific as contained in a report released recently by the US State Department.

“What transpired during the dialogue was a frank and honest exchange of ideas regarding the evolving security challenges in the region as a result of natural disasters and issues involving the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea ensued during the dialogue,” Padilla said.

Padilla said the report recognized the importance of the Asia-Pacific region and its maritime domain for the security of the United States.

“It is focused on safeguarding freedom of the seas, deterring conflict and coercion, and promoting adherence to international law and standards in order to preserve the peace and security the Asia-Pacific region has enjoyed for the past 70 years,” he added.

Padilla, however, admitted that the US did not make any concrete commitments during the meeting.

He noted that the US State Department report enumerated “lines of effort” to preserve security in the region.

These are strengthening US military capacity “to deter conflict and coercion and respond decisively when needed,” working with allies to build their capacity to address potential challenges; leveraging military diplomacy “to build greater transparency, reduce the risk of miscalculation” and promote shared maritime rules;” and working to strengthen regional security institutions.

“This is very important to the Philippines. It is part of our interest to keep that freedom of the seas going because a lot of trade goes on in these areas,” Padilla said.

Harris’ visit came as the Philippines is embroiled in a territorial row with a militarily superior China over the Spratly Islands and the Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, a fishing area located off Zambales.

The Philippines has been criticizing China for occupying disputed reefs in South China Sea despite signing a 2002 agreement that prohibits activities that will cause tensions.

China is claiming virtually the whole South China Sea while the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims.

To assert its territorial claims, China implemented a massive land reclamation in seven reefs that are also being claimed by the Philippines.

The projects are located in Panganiban (Mischief), Zamora (Subi), Kagitingan (Fiery Cross), Kennan (Chigua), Mabini (Johnson South), Burgos (Gaven) and Calderon (Cuarteron) Reefs.

Satellite photos showed that China is constructing artificial islands with airstrips, radar systems and military barracks, a move that experts believe would impact on freedom of navigation.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/08/26/1492532/us-vows-help-philippines-intel-gathering

Philippines seeks US help to protect troops in disputed sea

From the Philippine Star (Aug 26): Philippines seeks US help to protect troops in disputed sea

The Philippines has asked the U.S. military to help protect the transport of fresh Filipino troops and supplies in the disputed South China Sea by flying American patrol planes to discourage Chinese moves to stop the resupply missions.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin says he relayed the Philippine request on Wednesday to visiting U.S. Pacific Commander Adm. Harry Harris Jr.

According to Gazmin, Harris assured him of U.S. readiness to provide assistance.

The Philippines has protested past attempts by Chinese coast guard ships to block smaller Filipino motor boats transporting fresh military personnel, food and other supplies to a Philippine military ship outpost at the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, which is also being claimed and guarded by Chinese vessels.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/08/26/1492561/philippines-seeks-us-help-protect-troops-disputed-sea

Presence of floaters with Chinese markings alarms AFP

From ABS-CBN (Aug 26): Presence of floaters with Chinese markings alarms AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said it is concerned about the environmental impact and dangers posed by the set of metal pipes with large flotation devices washed ashore recently in La Union.

(READ: Metal pipe, floaters with Chinese markings reach PH coastal village)

AFP spokesperson Colonel Restituto Padilla said such a large object floating at sea, bearing Chinese markings similar to those found in Iba, Zambales last month, puts the lives of Filipino fishermen and sailors at risk.

When asked where the AFP thinks the pipes came from, Padilla said the AFP is still studying the matter.

He, however, said that the apparatus was most likely used for dredging activities.

Padilla said the last time the AFP checked, there were no such dredging activities in Scarborough Shoal or in Reed Bank, which are closer to the northern Philippines.

Padilla said it is likely that the pipes came from farther away. He surmised the pipes may be from the artificial islands that China is building in the West Philippine Sea.

Padilla, however, said that this was not yet a final assessment.

METAL PIPES, FLOATERS WITH CHINESE MARKINGS

Village chief Gaudencio Cuyo said he first received text messages from residents that big pipes were being washed towards Barangay Baroro during the onslaught of a typhoon over the weekend.

''During the typhoon, when the winds and rain were very strong, I got word that there were large pipes spotted near the barangay. When the typhoon left, we went to the barangay and found the pipes washed ashore,'' Cuyo said.

The pipe, which is bigger than an average man, is about 400 meters long and is composed of rubber joints and metal floaters.

The pipe bore Chinese characters as well as the word ''Danjin,'' which is suspected to be the manufacturer.

Ensign Simeon dela Rosa, information of the Philippine Coast Guard Northwestern Luzon, said similar Chinese markings and the word ''Danjin'' were also on pipes found in Subic, Zambales last month.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it is still verifying the function of the pipes. The PCG is planning to tow and secure the pipes at the San Fernando, La Union headquarters for further inspection.

Last May, the Philippine Navy found a large steel marker bearing Chinese inscriptions and hundreds of yellow buoys in waters near the Reed Bank, an area of the South China Sea where Manila has long explored for oil and gas.

A sailor told Reuters he was on a fishing boat being used by the Navy that discovered the rubber buoys and the floating steel marker at the end of May. The buoys stretched ''as far as the eye could see,'' the sailor said.

He said there was no evidence Chinese ships had placed them near the Reed Bank, which is also claimed by Beijing.

But efforts to remove the buoys were thwarted by the sudden appearance of a Chinese naval patrol vessel, prompting the Philippine boat to flee, the sailor said in an interview in Puerto Princesa, capital of Palawan province, the Philippine military's jumping off point to the disputed South China Sea.

The Reed Bank lies 80-90 nautical miles (148-167 km) west of the Philippines in what Manila regards as its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

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

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/08/26/15/presence-floaters-chinese-markings-alarms-afp

3 children, one more hurt in Zamboanga city blast

From GMA News (Aug 26): 3 children, one more hurt in Zamboanga city blast

Four people, including three children, were hurt in an explosion in Zamboanga City, Wednesday morning.

 

Radio dzBB's Jayvee Francisco reported that the children were on their way to school when the explosion happened in Purok 7, Barangay Ayala at around 6:40 a.m.

 

Francisco added that the explosion happened in a busy area, a few meters from the house of Barangay Ayala's chairman, Dioterides Librero.

 

The report added that according to the police, the explosion could be politically motivated.
Investigators said that recently, Librero's house was directly hit by an explosion.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/534368/news/regions/3-children-one-more-hurt-in-zamboanga-city-blast

Abu Sayyaf sub-leader falls in Sulu

From GMA News (Aug 26): Abu Sayyaf sub-leader falls in Sulu

Government troops arrested on Tuesday night a suspected sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Zamboanga Sibugay.

 

Lt. Col. Audie Mongao, public affairs officer of the military's 1st Infantry Division, identified the suspect as Ibni Acosta.

 

Mongao said joint joint elements from the military and the police arrested Acosta in barangay Poblacion, Tungawan town at 10:26 p.m.

 

Mongao said Acosta has a warrant of arrest for 21 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention before the Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 162.

 

The case is in relation to the kidnapping of 21 people, mostly foreigners, from the Sipadan diving resort in Malaysia in April 2000.

 

The captives were released by the bandits after the alleged payment of the ransom demand.

 

The military believes the Abu Sayyaf Group is holding at least nine kidnap victims, including foreigners.

 

Last week, two Philippine Coast Guard personnel Gringo Villaruz and Rod Pagaling escaped from their Abu Sayyaf captors while the bandits were engaged in a gunfight with pursuing military troops in Sulu.

 

Their escape came a week after another Abu Sayyaf captive -- village chairman Rodolfo Buligao -- was found beheaded.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/534433/news/regions/abu-sayyaf-sub-leader-falls-in-sulu

US PACOM commander tackles bilateral security concerns with Filipino officials

From Ang Malaya (Aug 26): US PACOM commander tackles bilateral security concerns with Filipino officials

United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) Commander Admiral Harry Harris and Armed Forces of the Philippine Chief-of-Staff General Hernando DCA Iriberri had a meeting at Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City today. Admiral Harris also gave a courtesy call to Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin.

Admiral Harris assumed command of the USPACOM last May 27.

After the meeting between Admiral Harris and General Iriberri, the American Admiral was scheduled to visit AFP-Western Command (WESCOM) Headquarters in Palawan to meet WESCOM Commander Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez.

“The purpose of his visit is to discuss bilateral security concerns with the Philippines and gain local perspective on the security situation in the area of the Pacific region where the Philippines is located,” the AFP said in a statement.

USPACOM is one of six geographic combatant commands defined by US Defense’s Unified Command Plan. It’s area of responsibility covers Asia-Pacific which includes the world’s busiest international sea lanes and nine of the ten largest ports. The Asia-Pacific is also a heavily militarized region, with seven of the world’s ten largest standing militaries and five of the world’s declared nuclear nations.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/08/26/12876-us-pacom-commander-tackles-bilateral-security-concerns-with-filipino-officials

‘Peace Through Strength’: Newest US forward-deployed aircraft carrier sets for Japan

From Ang Malaya (Aug 26): ‘Peace Through Strength’: Newest US forward-deployed aircraft carrier sets for Japan

In an all-hands call, August 24, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) commanding officer Captain Chris Bolt addressed the crew concerning the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier’s new role as United States Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier. “This ship demonstrates the US commitment to global stability in the Western Pacific,” said Bolt.

The Western Pacific includes Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, China, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore.

“We are happy to be able to work hand-in-hand with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and work as a team,” the American Navy Captain added.

USS Ronald Reagan recently completed a hull swap with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while anchored at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. Many former USS George Washington sailors joined the USS Ronald Reagan team and will transit with the ship back to its new homeport, Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan.

As a forward-deployed carrier, the crew will be able to practice USS Ronald Reagan’s motto ‘Peace Through Strength’.

In an earlier event, August 17, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jonathan Greenert addressed the officers and crew of USS Ronald Reagan. “You are the deterrent factor there, but more importantly, you’re the symbol of our commitment to the western Pacific,” the American Admiral said. “What you are doing is so incredibly important. This is real business and you are the tip of that spear.”

http://www.angmalaya.net/world/2015/08/26/12872-peace-through-strength-newest-us-forward-deployed-aircraft-carrier-sets-for-japan

Two more C-295 medium-lift transport aircraft arriving before year-end

From Ang Malaya (Aug 26): Two more C-295 medium-lift transport aircraft arriving before year-end

The Philippine Air Force’s transport capabilities will be boosted greatly with the scheduled arrival of two more EADS CASA C-295 medium-lift transports before the end of 2015. PAF chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado said the aircraft will be delivered during the last quarter of the year.

Earlier, Col. Enrico Canaya, PAF spokesperson, said “the additional C-295s will enhance the overall capability of the PAF in providing airlift requirements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.”

The Air Force’s first C-295 was commissioned last March 31. It joins the three other Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” heavy transports being operated by the PAF.

The Philippine contract for the three C-295 is worth PhP5.29 billion. It was signed last year.

The C-295 is categorized as medium lift aircraft equivalent to the Fokker F-27 aircraft being maintained by the 220th Airlift Wing. The C-295s have rear ramp door similar to that of the C-130s for easier access and loading/unloading of passengers and cargoes.

It can carry as much as 71 passengers, 50 paratroops, 24 stretchers with five to seven attendants or up to about 20,000 pounds of cargoes.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/08/26/12865-two-more-c-295-medium-lift-transport-aircraft-arriving-before-yearend

Soldier hurt in rebel hit

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 26): Soldier hurt in rebel hit

A SOLDIER of the 29th Infantry Battalion was wounded when they were fired upon by more or less 20 communist guerillas in Sitio Bahi, Barangay Tagbongabong, Remedios T. Romualdes in Agusan del Norte on Monday afternoon.

 

Capt. Alberto Caber, information officer of Eastern Mindanao Command, said the soldiers were on security patrol when they were fired by the NPAs. The armed group then withdrew after 10 minutes of firefight.

 

The wounded soldier was immediately given first aid care by the troops and is now in stable condition.

 

The patrolling soldiers were part of the troops on pursuit operation after the attack last week which killed a farmer and destroyed a 10-wheeler truck in Kauswagan, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.

 

Civilians in the area identified the NPA leader as alias Derek of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

 

On Sunday, troops of 73^rd Infantry Division conducted pursuit operations against the New People’s Army after a soldier was wounded in a clash in Sitio Malbag, Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao del Sur .

 

The wounded soldier was not identified by the army officer who assured that he’s recuperating at a medical facility. An eyewitness told the army that the number of NPA rebels was estimated to reach around 40.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/soldier-hurt-in-rebel-hit/

LIST: 2016 Philippine Holidays

From Rappler (Aug 26): LIST: 2016 Philippine Holidays

Heads up! Here's your chance to plan your holidays in advance!

WHAT HOLIDAY? Working on a holiday? Here's how to compute your pay!

 

Heads up! Here's your chance to plan your holidays in advance.

 

Malacañang has released Proclamation No. 1105, dated August 20, 2015, issued to the public, Wednesday, August 26. The proclamation lists all the regular holidays and special non-working days for 2016.

Next year, Filipinos can look forward to long weekends on the following dates:

January 1 - 3, February 6 - 8, August 27 - 29, October 29 - 31, and December 30, 2016 - January 2, 2017.

January 2, October 31, December 24, and December 31 have been declared as additional special non-working days in order to "strengthen family ties by providing longer New Year, All Saints' Day, and Christmas weekends and will promote domestic tourism as well."

Proclamations to declare national holidays for Eid'l Fitr and Eidul Adha shall follow after approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined.
Holidays and special non-working days are as follows:

 

http://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/103845-list-2016-philippines-holidays

Soldier gunned down on Maguindanao highway

From InterAksyon (Aug 26): Soldier gunned down on Maguindanao highway

A soldier was gunned down as he was riding his motorcycle on the national highway in Datu Montawal town, Maguindanao Wednesday afternoon.

The killing of Hernani Dabal, who was shot several times in Barangay Bulit around 1:45 p.m. by one of two motorcycle-riding men, happened a week after a soldier of the 7th Infantry Battalion died in similar circumstances in an incident claimed by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Following a rash of assassinations of soldiers in the Central Mindanao province months before, the 6th Infantry had issued a warning to troops against riding motorcycles, especially when alone.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/116647/soldier-gunned-down-on-maguindanao-highway

US plans more Asia-Pacific drills to counter China reclamation

From InterAksyon (Aug 26): US plans more Asia-Pacific drills to counter China reclamation



A US Amphibious Assault Vehicle maneuvers in choppy waters during the CARAT military exercises in 2014. (Reuters file)

The United States plans to increase the number of military and humanitarian drills it conducts in the Asia-Pacific as part of a new strategy to counter China's rapid expansion in the South China Sea, the Philippine military said on Wednesday.

Admiral Harry Harris, commander of the US Pacific Command, highlighted key aspects of the Pentagon's freshly drafted Asia Pacific Maritime Security Strategy during talks with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff General Hernando Iriberri during a visit to Manila.

Military spokesman Colonel Restituto Padilla told journalists that the report outlined Washington's set of actions in the disputed South China Sea and East China Sea, focusing on the protection of "freedom of seas," deterring conflict and coercion, and promoting adherence to international law.

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 also have overlapping claims.

A military source, who was in the meeting between Harris and Iriberri, told Reuters the US and the Philippines are expected to increase the size, frequency and sophistication of exercises in the region.

Since China's land reclamation efforts began in December 2013, it has reclaimed more than 2,900 acres (1,170 hectares) of land as of June 2015, the Pentagon said last week in a report on its Asia-Pacific Maritime Security Strategy.

The reclamation campaign significantly outweighed efforts by other claimants in size, pace and nature, the Pentagon report said.

China says the outposts will have undefined military purposes, as well as help with maritime search and rescue, disaster relief and navigation.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/116661/us-plans-more-asia-pacific-drills-to-counter-china-reclamation

8 killed, 1 wounded in 'rido' related clash in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26): 8 killed, 1 wounded in 'rido' related clash in Sulu

Eight people were killed and another one was wounded in what authorities described as "rido" (clan war)-related shooting in Sulu Tuesday afternoon.

Joint Task Group Sulu commander Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado said the firefight took place at Barangay Pislong, Siasi town.

Arrojado said initial investigations indicated the family members of one Alam Sayadi fired at the group of Rashid Hadjiluddin at 5:10 p.m.

The encounter between the rival clans lasted for 40 minutes and resulted in the death of Sakili Musahari, Al-mackdil Alam, Koler Amado and five others who remained unidentified.

Wounded in the firefight was Alam Sayadi.

All of the casualties are from the Sayadi camp, Arrojado added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=797338

New United States Pacific Command Chief calls on President Aquino

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26): New United States Pacific Command Chief calls on President Aquino

The new commander of the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM), Admiral Harry Harris Jr., paid a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Music Room of Malacañang on Wednesday.

Admiral Harris was accompanied by US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, USPACOM Foreign Affairs Policy Advisor Christopher Marut, Senior Defense Official Col. Earnest Lee, and Political Military Affairs Chief Marc Jackson.

He was received by Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Undersecretary Evan Garcia, and Assistant Secretary on American Affairs Maria Andrelita Austria, as well as Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri.

The 59-year-old admiral assumed leadership of the USPACOM last May 27.

He was born in Japan to a Navy enlisted man and a Japanese mother and grew up in Tennessee. He is a graduate of the US Naval Academy, and attended Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service, and Oxford University for his postgraduate studies.

He is the highest-ranking Asian American in the US Navy.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=797413

US, PHL to work together to enhance regional security

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 26): US, PHL to work together to enhance regional security

The United States and the Philippines will continue to work together to enhance regional security in the Asia-Pacific.

This was the sense of the meeting between Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Pacific Command head Admiral Harry Harris Wednesday.

"The Secretary of National Defense and the Commander of the US Pacific Command (PACOM) shared the sense that the Philippines and the US will continue to work together to enhance regional security," said Defense spokesman Dr. Peter Paul Galvez.

Along this line, both parties agreed that developing the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is of paramount importance, specifically in the areas of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); command and control (C2); lift; and interdiction.

In addition to building the AFP’s capability, there was also an agreement to cooperate on information sharing through the crafting of a General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), Galvez added.

"Admiral Harris acknowledged that enhanced information sharing would further enhance inter-operability between the AFP and US PACOM," he stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=797483