From the Manila Times (Sep 17): Elderly NPA member surrenders
GAMU, Isabela: A 60-year-ld active member of the New People’s Army (NPA) – Antonio Lang-ay Balnawi, alias Gingit – surrendered to the Philippine Army (PA) stationed in Kalanan village, Tabuk, Kalinga recently.
Balnawi, of Sitio Mallongan in Western Uma, Lubuagan in Kalinga belonging to the NPA’s KLG Baggas Command turned himself in at the Headquarters Army’s Alpha Company, 5 Civil-Military Operations (5CMO) Battalion of the 5th Infantry “Star” Division (5ID).
Col. Roy Devesa of 503rd Infantry Brigade and to Lt. Col. Edmund Tubiera of the 5CMO Battalion, said Balnawi brought his issued firearms – a Winsister Shotgun and a homemade shotgun with four rounds of ammunition.
Recently, at least 72 members of NPA in Isabela also laid down their arms and voluntarily surrendered to the military influenced by the increasing number of NPA returnees who are tired of fighting in the hinterlands against the authorities.
http://www.manilatimes.net/elderly-npa-member-surrenders/286368/
Saturday, September 17, 2016
5 NPA members surrender to Army in Surigao
From GMA News (Sep 18): 5 NPA members surrender to Army in Surigao
Five New People's Army (NPA) members surrendered to the military in Surigao del Sur on Friday afternoon.
The Philippine Army's 4th Infantry Division said the five rebels were members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad based in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.
"They chose to go back after they have decided to heed the government's sincere efforts to unite the country," Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the Army division, said in a statement.
The five rebels surrendered to the 75th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Saint Christine in Lianga. They brought six M16 rifles with them in their surrender.
The rebels will be given supported through the Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the provincial government. Officials of the Philippine Army have also pledged assistance to the five rebels for their reintegration to their respective communities.
The Philippine government and the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has direct leadership over the NPA, has started formal peace talks.
Peace negotiators from both groups are expected to hold the second round of talks in Oslo in October.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/581819/news/regions/5-npa-members-surrender-to-army-in-surigao
Five New People's Army (NPA) members surrendered to the military in Surigao del Sur on Friday afternoon.
The Philippine Army's 4th Infantry Division said the five rebels were members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad based in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.
"They chose to go back after they have decided to heed the government's sincere efforts to unite the country," Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the Army division, said in a statement.
The five rebels surrendered to the 75th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Saint Christine in Lianga. They brought six M16 rifles with them in their surrender.
The rebels will be given supported through the Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the provincial government. Officials of the Philippine Army have also pledged assistance to the five rebels for their reintegration to their respective communities.
The Philippine government and the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has direct leadership over the NPA, has started formal peace talks.
Peace negotiators from both groups are expected to hold the second round of talks in Oslo in October.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/581819/news/regions/5-npa-members-surrender-to-army-in-surigao
New Army 6th ID commander to have back-channel talks with MILF
From the Philippine Star (Sep 18): New Army 6th ID commander to have back-channel talks with MILF
In this 2012 file photo, members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) pray together as they gather at their stronghold at Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao province to coincide with the tentative peace-signing agreement between MILF and the government. The MILF has vowed to stick to the peace process in finding a solution to the conflict in Mindanao despite the failure to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). AP/Karlos Manlupig, File
Central Mindanao’s top Army official will personally meet this week senior Moro commanders for a dialogue, something first in the history of the southern peace process.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/09/18/1625007/new-army-6th-id-commander-have-back-channel-talks-milf
In this 2012 file photo, members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) pray together as they gather at their stronghold at Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao province to coincide with the tentative peace-signing agreement between MILF and the government. The MILF has vowed to stick to the peace process in finding a solution to the conflict in Mindanao despite the failure to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). AP/Karlos Manlupig, File
Central Mindanao’s top Army official will personally meet this week senior Moro commanders for a dialogue, something first in the history of the southern peace process.
Major Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., the new commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6th ID), said coordination and other legworks are now being initiated, according to communication protocols agreed by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), for the meeting to push through.
The back-channel initiative of Galvez is known to Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza, the joint government-MILF ceasefire committee and the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team.
Galvez declined to reveal, in the meantime, the venue of the planned meeting for security reasons.
“Efforts are now underway for the meeting to happen,” he said.
Galvez, while a colonel, served as chairman of the government’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, which deals with a counterpart in the MILF.
He hinted that the meeting is part of the 6th ID’s confidence-building measures meant to sustain what is for him a “fragile but sustainable peace” in once hostile areas in central Mindanao.
The region is covered by the July 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities between the government and the MILF.
Galvez said the peace dialogue this week is being coordinated with Al-Mansur Gambar, chief of the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces.
Sources from the 6th ID said among the possible topics to be discussed in the meeting is how the division and MILF commanders can cooperate in supporting the anti-narcotics campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Galvez said there is a need for more “backdoor engagements” between the 6th ID and MILF field commanders to ensure the continuity of the cordial enforcement by both sides of the ceasefire accord crafted by government and rebel negotiators in Cagayan de Oro in 1997.
There has not been any single Army-MILF encounter in 6th ID’s area since 2010. The government-MILF interim ceasefire pact also enjoins both sides to mutually cooperate in addressing domestic peace and security issues and in interdicting criminal gangs and terrorists in areas where there are guerilla forces.
The 6th ID covers Maguindanao and parts of Lanao del Sur, both component areas of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), and the adjoining provinces of North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat under Administrative Region 12.
These four provinces are bastions of the MILF, where it has about 40 government-recognized camps, now dubbed “peace zones,” where Malacañang, foreign benefactors and the office of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman are implementing socio-economic and infrastructure projects designed to address poverty and underdevelopment in local communities.
Galvez assumed as 6th ID commander only last Sept. 12. His predecessor, Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, now vice commander of the Philippine Army, also engaged in various peace-building programs while 6th ID commander.
The first ever 6th ID commander to engage with the MILF was the now retired Major Gen. Rey Ardo, via a visit to the group’s figurehead, Al-Haj Murad, in Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao in 2013.
The planned meeting between Galvez and senior Moro commanders this week is the first ever since the government-MILF peace overture began on January 7, 1997
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/09/18/1625007/new-army-6th-id-commander-have-back-channel-talks-milf
Abu Sayyaf frees 3 Indonesian hostages — MNLF
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 18): Abu Sayyaf frees 3 Indonesian hostages — MNLF
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair Nur Misuari (in red). AFP FILE
Three Indonesian nationals were freed by their Abu Sayyaf captors in Sulu on Saturday night.
Professor Samsula Adju, spokesperson of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Sulu, said the freed kidnap victims were already with Nur Misuari in Indanan town.
“Yes, they were released to the MNLF by the ASG,” Adju said, adding that the Indonesians would be turned over to the government on Sunday.
Professor Octavio Dinampo, a university professor based in Sulu, identified the freed victims as Lorens Koten, Theodores Kopong and a certain Emmanuel.
“I heard P30 million was paid to the Abu Sayyaf Group,” Dinampo said.
The three, who were kidnapped last July 19 in Lahad Datu, spent the night with Misuari in Indanan town. They joined Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, who was also freed on Saturday. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/816296/816296
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair Nur Misuari (in red). AFP FILE
Three Indonesian nationals were freed by their Abu Sayyaf captors in Sulu on Saturday night.
Professor Samsula Adju, spokesperson of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Sulu, said the freed kidnap victims were already with Nur Misuari in Indanan town.
“Yes, they were released to the MNLF by the ASG,” Adju said, adding that the Indonesians would be turned over to the government on Sunday.
Professor Octavio Dinampo, a university professor based in Sulu, identified the freed victims as Lorens Koten, Theodores Kopong and a certain Emmanuel.
“I heard P30 million was paid to the Abu Sayyaf Group,” Dinampo said.
The three, who were kidnapped last July 19 in Lahad Datu, spent the night with Misuari in Indanan town. They joined Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, who was also freed on Saturday. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/816296/816296
PMA grads sign petition condemning Trillanes for conduct in Senate probe
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 17): PMA grads sign petition condemning Trillanes for conduct in Senate probe
A petition on Facebook is doing the rounds among the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy condemning Senator Antonio Trillanes IV for his conduct during the Senate committee hearing on extrajudicial killings on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2016.
“We, the undersigned, condemn in the strongest terms your behavior as a bully and your conduct unbecoming of a people’s senator,” according to the online petition initiated by Dan Jimenez, a Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumnus, on Friday, Sept. 16, and has since been co-handled by Abe Purugganan, likewise a PMA graduate.
Jimenez pointed out that Sen. Trillanes’ actions do not reflect the characteristics of a PMA graduate.
“We are aghast and purely discombobulated that as a graduate of the revered and prestigious Philippine Military Academy, you showed you are not an officer, neither are you a gentleman,” Jimenez said, who maintains the blogs
http://
The letter went on demanding “perhaps a simple apology will suffice that you may deserve understanding and forgiveness. Perhaps a little bit of humility and politeness will regain your humanity back.”
Senators Trillanes and Cayetano were locked in an argument during Thursday’s Senate hearing after the former turned off the latter’s microphone while he was grilling Senate committee witness Edgar Matobato.
As of posting, over 300 individuals, PMA alumni and ordinary citizens included, have had their names listed on the petition. It was posted in the public group “TheLongGrayLine” and has been shared over 3,000 times.
More than 2,800 people have also reacted to the post and have their names added to the list.
The petition may have been prompted by the clash between Sen. Trillanes and Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano, but Jimenez said in the letter that it resulted from Trillanes’ misconducts over the years.
“We have witnessed over the years that power and position have gone to your head and that you have crossed the point of no return. Your arrogance and self righteousness are phenomenal!” Jimenez wrote.
http://www.mb.com.ph/pma-grads-sign-petition-condemning-trillanes-for-conduct-in-senate-probe/
PEACEMAKER — Senator Leila de Lima gets in between fellow Senators Sonny Trillanes IV (left) and Alan Peter Cayetano (right) who were locked in an argument during Thursday’s Senate hearing. De Lima had a few moments earlier declared Cayetano out of order for ‘imputing bad faith and ill motive’ on the proceedings.(Jansen Romero / Manila Bulletin)
“We, the undersigned, condemn in the strongest terms your behavior as a bully and your conduct unbecoming of a people’s senator,” according to the online petition initiated by Dan Jimenez, a Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumnus, on Friday, Sept. 16, and has since been co-handled by Abe Purugganan, likewise a PMA graduate.
Jimenez pointed out that Sen. Trillanes’ actions do not reflect the characteristics of a PMA graduate.
“We are aghast and purely discombobulated that as a graduate of the revered and prestigious Philippine Military Academy, you showed you are not an officer, neither are you a gentleman,” Jimenez said, who maintains the blogs
http://
The letter went on demanding “perhaps a simple apology will suffice that you may deserve understanding and forgiveness. Perhaps a little bit of humility and politeness will regain your humanity back.”
Senators Trillanes and Cayetano were locked in an argument during Thursday’s Senate hearing after the former turned off the latter’s microphone while he was grilling Senate committee witness Edgar Matobato.
As of posting, over 300 individuals, PMA alumni and ordinary citizens included, have had their names listed on the petition. It was posted in the public group “TheLongGrayLine” and has been shared over 3,000 times.
More than 2,800 people have also reacted to the post and have their names added to the list.
The petition may have been prompted by the clash between Sen. Trillanes and Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano, but Jimenez said in the letter that it resulted from Trillanes’ misconducts over the years.
“We have witnessed over the years that power and position have gone to your head and that you have crossed the point of no return. Your arrogance and self righteousness are phenomenal!” Jimenez wrote.
http://www.mb.com.ph/pma-grads-sign-petition-condemning-trillanes-for-conduct-in-senate-probe/
PH poised to be biggest recipient of Japan’s military aid program
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 17): PH poised to be biggest recipient of Japan’s military aid program
http://www.mb.com.ph/ph-poised-to-be-biggest-recipient-of-japans-military-aid-program/
The Philippines is poised to become the biggest recipient of Japan’s capacity building assistance particularly the transfer of military technology and equipment in order to beef up its own capability in safeguarding its territorial waters in the South China Sea.
“There is a high possibility that we will make such a decision,” Dr. Ken Jimbo, assistant professor at Keio University’s Faculty of Policy Management, told Manila Bulletin in an interview. “We are very sympathetic that we should transfer those technology to the Philippines.”
It was in April the previous year when the Japanese government established three principles that if satisfied would allow for the transfer of defense equipment and technology, marking a shift from what was in effect a prohibition on military sales.
In late February this year Tokyo and Manila signed a defense equipment transfer agreement. This made the Philippines the first Southeast Asian country to have such an agreement with Japan. The agreement promotes the joint production and development of defense equipment and technology, and establishes a legal framework providing for this.
According to Prof. Jimbo, this could only be the beginning.
When former president, Benigno Aquino, III, visited Japan last year, he reportedly submitted a wish list to the Japanese government enumerating what equipment the Philippines need urgently to boost its maritime security in the South China Sea. The list included P-3C Orion maritime surveillance aircraft, Shirane class destroyers, Hayabusa class missile patrol boats, and Oyashio-class submarines.
“Normally we don’t even have reservations of transferring technologies,” Jimbo pointed out.
However, the recipient, in this case the Philippines, needs to have a better kind of training and operating infrastructure before any military hardware is transferred.
“We should start from the easy part first and then when those organization and human aspects are met, I think we are ready to transfer the P-3C,” said Jimbo whose specialization includes international security, security in Asia-Pacific, US defense policy and regionalization in East Asia. “The P-3C is a high end technology and we really need to have high end training to operate those aircraft.”
“We need time to cultivate those infrastructure before transferring the hardware,” he added.
Probably, Jimbo said Japan will also start from those non-military assistance such as policing or law enforcement. “You don’t have to identify it as military equipment so you don’t really have to go through the processes,” he said.
Jimbo noted that Japan used to rely heavily on its alliance with the United States which is the cornerstone of Japan’s security system.
However, because of the rise of China and the shift in the power balance, Japan has to seek new strategic partners such as those emerging Association of Southeast Asian Nations member countries including the Philippines.
Courtesy of www.crossed-flag-pins.com
“There is a high possibility that we will make such a decision,” Dr. Ken Jimbo, assistant professor at Keio University’s Faculty of Policy Management, told Manila Bulletin in an interview. “We are very sympathetic that we should transfer those technology to the Philippines.”
It was in April the previous year when the Japanese government established three principles that if satisfied would allow for the transfer of defense equipment and technology, marking a shift from what was in effect a prohibition on military sales.
In late February this year Tokyo and Manila signed a defense equipment transfer agreement. This made the Philippines the first Southeast Asian country to have such an agreement with Japan. The agreement promotes the joint production and development of defense equipment and technology, and establishes a legal framework providing for this.
According to Prof. Jimbo, this could only be the beginning.
When former president, Benigno Aquino, III, visited Japan last year, he reportedly submitted a wish list to the Japanese government enumerating what equipment the Philippines need urgently to boost its maritime security in the South China Sea. The list included P-3C Orion maritime surveillance aircraft, Shirane class destroyers, Hayabusa class missile patrol boats, and Oyashio-class submarines.
“Normally we don’t even have reservations of transferring technologies,” Jimbo pointed out.
However, the recipient, in this case the Philippines, needs to have a better kind of training and operating infrastructure before any military hardware is transferred.
“We should start from the easy part first and then when those organization and human aspects are met, I think we are ready to transfer the P-3C,” said Jimbo whose specialization includes international security, security in Asia-Pacific, US defense policy and regionalization in East Asia. “The P-3C is a high end technology and we really need to have high end training to operate those aircraft.”
“We need time to cultivate those infrastructure before transferring the hardware,” he added.
Probably, Jimbo said Japan will also start from those non-military assistance such as policing or law enforcement. “You don’t have to identify it as military equipment so you don’t really have to go through the processes,” he said.
Jimbo noted that Japan used to rely heavily on its alliance with the United States which is the cornerstone of Japan’s security system.
However, because of the rise of China and the shift in the power balance, Japan has to seek new strategic partners such as those emerging Association of Southeast Asian Nations member countries including the Philippines.
http://www.mb.com.ph/ph-poised-to-be-biggest-recipient-of-japans-military-aid-program/
Troops continue to pursue rebels despite peace pact
From the Daily Tribune (Sep 18): Troops continue to pursue rebels despite peace pact
Members of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) here at Camp Melchor de la Cruz told The Tribune that they remain to be vigilant as they are wary of the infiltration activities done by operatives of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the hinterlands ofNorthern Luzon .
Combatants from 5ID, who begged for anonymity, shared that they still monitor the rebels’ “propaganda work” in the provinces of Isabela, Cagayan, Apayao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao and Benguet.
“We remain vigilant for possible noise that (the NPAs) might do when we carry out our peace and development activities, our Bayanihan operations,” a soldier told The Tribune at the sidelines of President Duterte’s visit to the 5ID “Start Troopers” here.
Relatively, the so-called Oplan Bayanihan was the counterinsurgency program of Duterte’s predecessor which was and remains to be heavily criticized by the CPP-NPA and its sympathizers.
Ironically, though, “peace and development” efforts are supervised by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) whose incumbent chief, Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, is a known ally of the leftist movement. As matter of fact, her appointment to the Duterte Cabinet was lobbied by the CPP-NPA’s negotiating arm, the National Democratic Front.
The soldiers whose were conversing with The Tribune refrained to opine on how they view Taguiwalo’s post, saying however, that they will continue to support her “as long as (her post) will be beneficial to the public and not to the NPA movement.”
The “Star Troopers,” however, bragged that since both the CPP and the Duterte administration declared separate ceasefires, about 20 NPA combatants already reverted to the state leaving behind their communist aspirations.
As a matter of fact, the 5ID presented to the members of the press 30 turned-over and confiscated firearms from the rebels. These include long rifles and locally made handguns or paltik.
Also, apart from the CPP-NPA rebels, the 5ID is still in active offensive mode against a communist splinter group, the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA).
The CPLA, the troopers claim, is engaged in extortion and robbery activities. The lesser-known leftist armed group was founded by late Conrado Balweg, a former priest-turned-rebel during martial law.
Furthermore, three battalions from the 5ID were pulled out and were deployed in Sulu as part of the administration’s fight against terror group Abu Sayyaf.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/troops-continue-to-pursue-rebels-despite-peace-pact
Despite the
government’s declared unilateral ceasefire with communist insurgents, state
security forces yesterday confessed that they are still in “active defense”
mode against the rebels.
Members of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) here at Camp Melchor de la Cruz told The Tribune that they remain to be vigilant as they are wary of the infiltration activities done by operatives of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the hinterlands of
Combatants from 5ID, who begged for anonymity, shared that they still monitor the rebels’ “propaganda work” in the provinces of Isabela, Cagayan, Apayao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao and Benguet.
“We remain vigilant for possible noise that (the NPAs) might do when we carry out our peace and development activities, our Bayanihan operations,” a soldier told The Tribune at the sidelines of President Duterte’s visit to the 5ID “Start Troopers” here.
Relatively, the so-called Oplan Bayanihan was the counterinsurgency program of Duterte’s predecessor which was and remains to be heavily criticized by the CPP-NPA and its sympathizers.
Ironically, though, “peace and development” efforts are supervised by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) whose incumbent chief, Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, is a known ally of the leftist movement. As matter of fact, her appointment to the Duterte Cabinet was lobbied by the CPP-NPA’s negotiating arm, the National Democratic Front.
The soldiers whose were conversing with The Tribune refrained to opine on how they view Taguiwalo’s post, saying however, that they will continue to support her “as long as (her post) will be beneficial to the public and not to the NPA movement.”
The “Star Troopers,” however, bragged that since both the CPP and the Duterte administration declared separate ceasefires, about 20 NPA combatants already reverted to the state leaving behind their communist aspirations.
As a matter of fact, the 5ID presented to the members of the press 30 turned-over and confiscated firearms from the rebels. These include long rifles and locally made handguns or paltik.
Also, apart from the CPP-NPA rebels, the 5ID is still in active offensive mode against a communist splinter group, the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA).
The CPLA, the troopers claim, is engaged in extortion and robbery activities. The lesser-known leftist armed group was founded by late Conrado Balweg, a former priest-turned-rebel during martial law.
Furthermore, three battalions from the 5ID were pulled out and were deployed in Sulu as part of the administration’s fight against terror group Abu Sayyaf.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/troops-continue-to-pursue-rebels-despite-peace-pact
‘Use PH industries in arms upgrades’
From The Standard (Sep 18): ‘Use PH industries in arms upgrades’
SENATOR Ralph Recto is urging the government to buy military equipment made in the Philippines to support the local industry and create more jobs.
“While many equipment, like planes, can only be bought abroad, I think those which can be locally built should be given preference, and if some components can be manufactured here, we should insist that [they] should be [bought as well],” Recto said Saturday.
He said the country’s car manufacturing industry can supply military and police vehicles, foreclosing the need to buy them abroad.
“There are also firearms factories in the country, some of which were licensees of world’s leading gun makers,” Recto added.
Cebu can even build coastal patrol ships, according to Recto.
“As a son of Cebu and especially Danao, the President should be the first to recognize the ingenuity of our local craftsmen,” he said.
The province of Cebu, according to Recto, can help the Department of Transportation develop affordable but cutting edge technology for building patrol boats of the Philippine Coast Guard.
“If we are also looking for boats that will be used by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for their research and conservation programs, these can also be built in Cebu,” Recto said.
“We have a world-class shipbuilding industry in Cebu, but our government agencies have yet to harness its potential as a major source of military and civilian boats,” said Recto, one of the authors of the Armed Forces Modernization Act and the principal sponsor of the Domestic Shipping Act.
Recto said the government has a deficit of floating vessels which Cebu and other areas where shipbuilders operate—like Navotas City in Metro Manila and the province of Bataan—can help wipe out.
“We need a hospital ship or two...You know we are an archipelago. And when there’s a typhoon, and the roads are destroyed, the only way to reach the victims is by sea,” he said.
“If we’re buying boats either for coastal or river patrol, then let our local shipyards make them. The weaponry can come from abroad,” he said.
“If other nations find our ships exceptional, then we should, too.”
Recto noted the Philippines has been recognized as the fourth largest shipbuilder in the world, having shipyards with facilities that produce container ships, passenger ships, and ferries.
He said by buying local, government will be supporting local firms, creating local jobs and giving the manufacturing sector a much-needed boost.
“Buy local, create jobs. This should be the new mantra of DND, DOTr and other government agencies for their procurement programs,” the senator added.
“What we can manufacture here, we don’t have to import from abroad. One good example are the car plates. A small piece of tin we chose to source from The Netherlands. Yet here we are building megaton ships,” he said.
Recto described government as a huge supplies and equipment buyer, with a budget in the hundreds of billions annually. “From soap to cars, from paper to guns, government buys these in bulk.”
For 2016, national government alone will be buying P73.5 billion worth of supplies and materials, not only for many commonly used items for offices, but also medicine for hospitals and parts for its vehicle fleet.
To the extent allowed by law, government must prefer local products or those with high local content in shopping for these, Recto said.
Recto recalled a provision in previous national budgets—which has been scrapped in the General Appropriations Act for 2016—which mandated government purchases of Philippine-made products.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/216487/-use-ph-industries-in-arms-upgrades-.html
SENATOR Ralph Recto is urging the government to buy military equipment made in the Philippines to support the local industry and create more jobs.
“While many equipment, like planes, can only be bought abroad, I think those which can be locally built should be given preference, and if some components can be manufactured here, we should insist that [they] should be [bought as well],” Recto said Saturday.
He said the country’s car manufacturing industry can supply military and police vehicles, foreclosing the need to buy them abroad.
“There are also firearms factories in the country, some of which were licensees of world’s leading gun makers,” Recto added.
Cebu can even build coastal patrol ships, according to Recto.
“As a son of Cebu and especially Danao, the President should be the first to recognize the ingenuity of our local craftsmen,” he said.
The province of Cebu, according to Recto, can help the Department of Transportation develop affordable but cutting edge technology for building patrol boats of the Philippine Coast Guard.
“If we are also looking for boats that will be used by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for their research and conservation programs, these can also be built in Cebu,” Recto said.
“We have a world-class shipbuilding industry in Cebu, but our government agencies have yet to harness its potential as a major source of military and civilian boats,” said Recto, one of the authors of the Armed Forces Modernization Act and the principal sponsor of the Domestic Shipping Act.
Recto said the government has a deficit of floating vessels which Cebu and other areas where shipbuilders operate—like Navotas City in Metro Manila and the province of Bataan—can help wipe out.
“We need a hospital ship or two...You know we are an archipelago. And when there’s a typhoon, and the roads are destroyed, the only way to reach the victims is by sea,” he said.
“If we’re buying boats either for coastal or river patrol, then let our local shipyards make them. The weaponry can come from abroad,” he said.
“If other nations find our ships exceptional, then we should, too.”
Recto noted the Philippines has been recognized as the fourth largest shipbuilder in the world, having shipyards with facilities that produce container ships, passenger ships, and ferries.
He said by buying local, government will be supporting local firms, creating local jobs and giving the manufacturing sector a much-needed boost.
“Buy local, create jobs. This should be the new mantra of DND, DOTr and other government agencies for their procurement programs,” the senator added.
“What we can manufacture here, we don’t have to import from abroad. One good example are the car plates. A small piece of tin we chose to source from The Netherlands. Yet here we are building megaton ships,” he said.
Recto described government as a huge supplies and equipment buyer, with a budget in the hundreds of billions annually. “From soap to cars, from paper to guns, government buys these in bulk.”
For 2016, national government alone will be buying P73.5 billion worth of supplies and materials, not only for many commonly used items for offices, but also medicine for hospitals and parts for its vehicle fleet.
To the extent allowed by law, government must prefer local products or those with high local content in shopping for these, Recto said.
Recto recalled a provision in previous national budgets—which has been scrapped in the General Appropriations Act for 2016—which mandated government purchases of Philippine-made products.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/216487/-use-ph-industries-in-arms-upgrades-.html
PRRD reminds AFP of constitutional mandate to serve the people, secure the Republic
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): PRRD reminds AFP of constitutional mandate to serve the people, secure the Republic
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923945
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday reminded anew the
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of its Constitutional mandate to serve
the people and secure the Republic.
During the Commander-in-Chief’s time with the Star Troopers
of the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division at Camp Melchor F. De la Cruz
here, the President strongly declared, “Do not allow our country to
disintegrate,” referring to the problems of drugs, corruption, and criminality
which affect the length and breadth of the nation.
President Duterte described the country’s situation like an
airplane taking off on the runway but cannot rise, which is likened to the
nation beset with problems, especially drugs.
In fighting the “war” on drugs, the Commander-in-Chief
stressed: “I will protect you. I will not allow one policeman or one military
to go to jail for doing his duty,” as he repeated that he will go to jail for
them.
Duterte called on the AFP to be well trained, to re-orient
and re-invent themselves to be good intelligence operatives against the threat
of urban terrorism which he said will be a long fight.
Furthermore, in his talk to the Star Troopers, he announced
that he is giving up his presidential planes to be used as air ambulances.
He also said that under the government's peace initiatives,
the ongoing talks with the communists is “doing well.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923945
Duterte: Misuari has lost control over young Moros
From Rappler (Sep 17): Duterte: Misuari has lost control over young Moros
(UPDATED) The President says he thinks Nur Misuari won't commit to peace talks now. Young Moros are now 'hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia.'
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday, September 17, said Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari has lost control over young Moros in Mindanao.
In a speech during his visit at the headquarters of the 5th Infantry Division in Gamu town in Isabela, Duterte said the "ambivalent" Misuari could not yet commit to peace talks.
Duterte had earlier said that he was planning to talk to Misuari as part of efforts to forge peace among warring groups in the country. They were supposed to meet in Malaysia in 2017, Duterte said last August. (READ: Duterte targets meeting with Misuari in 2017)
"Ang tingin ko si (I think) Nur will not commit now. He's consolidating forces...but he has lost control of the young men of the Moro generation," Duterte said.
Duterte was referring to the Abu Sayyaf Group in Mindanao as the young men of the Moro generation.
This poses complications for peace efforts, considering that the Abu Sayyaf now, according to Duterte, "no longer hungers for independence of Mindanao" or even autonomy. Instead, they are "hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia."
The problem, the President said, is that they are no longer willing to talk on the basis on what government can give them, such as schools. "It's either the caliphate or nothing."
In fighting the Abu Sayyaf, Duterte asked the army to reinvent themselves from being soldiers in uniform to being "intelligence operatives." Terrorism, like in the Middle East, he said, has accompanying urban terrorism, even if there is a front war.
The communist New People's Army is mobile and on the move, while the Abu Sayyaf is static. Fighting them requires using both eyes and ears to find them, Duterte told soldiers. "It's a long fight ahead," he added.
Misuari, the 77-year-old MNLF leader, has a standing warrant of arrest for rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law in relation to the 2013 Zamboanga siege which led to the deaths of over 200 people and the displacement of thousands of others.
That siege was allegedly prompted by Misuari's fear that a peace agreement with rival group Moro Islamic Liberation Front would negate the MNLF's own peace agreement with government. He said he was also excluded from the peace process with the MILF – a claim that has been denied.
Duterte earlier gave Misuari assurances he would not be arrested or detained.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/146506-duterte-nur-misuari-lost-control-young-moros
(UPDATED) The President says he thinks Nur Misuari won't commit to peace talks now. Young Moros are now 'hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia.'
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday, September 17, said Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari has lost control over young Moros in Mindanao.
In a speech during his visit at the headquarters of the 5th Infantry Division in Gamu town in Isabela, Duterte said the "ambivalent" Misuari could not yet commit to peace talks.
Duterte had earlier said that he was planning to talk to Misuari as part of efforts to forge peace among warring groups in the country. They were supposed to meet in Malaysia in 2017, Duterte said last August. (READ: Duterte targets meeting with Misuari in 2017)
"Ang tingin ko si (I think) Nur will not commit now. He's consolidating forces...but he has lost control of the young men of the Moro generation," Duterte said.
Duterte was referring to the Abu Sayyaf Group in Mindanao as the young men of the Moro generation.
This poses complications for peace efforts, considering that the Abu Sayyaf now, according to Duterte, "no longer hungers for independence of Mindanao" or even autonomy. Instead, they are "hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia."
The problem, the President said, is that they are no longer willing to talk on the basis on what government can give them, such as schools. "It's either the caliphate or nothing."
In fighting the Abu Sayyaf, Duterte asked the army to reinvent themselves from being soldiers in uniform to being "intelligence operatives." Terrorism, like in the Middle East, he said, has accompanying urban terrorism, even if there is a front war.
The communist New People's Army is mobile and on the move, while the Abu Sayyaf is static. Fighting them requires using both eyes and ears to find them, Duterte told soldiers. "It's a long fight ahead," he added.
Misuari, the 77-year-old MNLF leader, has a standing warrant of arrest for rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law in relation to the 2013 Zamboanga siege which led to the deaths of over 200 people and the displacement of thousands of others.
That siege was allegedly prompted by Misuari's fear that a peace agreement with rival group Moro Islamic Liberation Front would negate the MNLF's own peace agreement with government. He said he was also excluded from the peace process with the MILF – a claim that has been denied.
Duterte earlier gave Misuari assurances he would not be arrested or detained.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/146506-duterte-nur-misuari-lost-control-young-moros
Brief statement of Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza on release of Abu Sayyaf hostage
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 17): Brief statement of Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza on release of Abu Sayyaf hostage
First words of Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad to Dureza: Thank you to President Duterte
Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad was released by his captors earlier today, Saturday, at around 2pm somewhere in Patikul, Sulu.
He is now staying overnight at the place of MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari in Barangay Kagay. Chairman Misuari volunteered to host his stay due to heavy rains and nightfall. Men of Misuari and former Gov. Sakur Tan and other volunteers helped in the release.
I will fly him out of Jolo town tomorrow morning.
His first words when I spoke to him on the phone : “Thank you to President Duterte.”
His release from captivity capped months of quiet, patient but determined efforts with the assistance of all sectors.
He was taken hostage by armed men in a Samal resort in Davao last year, September 21, 2015 with 3 others, namely John Ridsdel, Robert Hall, who were both beheaded, and Filipina Maritess Flor, whom I also recovered 3 months ago.
http://www.mb.com.ph/brief-statement-of-presidential-peace-adviser-jesus-dureza-on-release-of-abu-sayyaf-hostage/
He is now staying overnight at the place of MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari in Barangay Kagay. Chairman Misuari volunteered to host his stay due to heavy rains and nightfall. Men of Misuari and former Gov. Sakur Tan and other volunteers helped in the release.
I will fly him out of Jolo town tomorrow morning.
His first words when I spoke to him on the phone : “Thank you to President Duterte.”
His release from captivity capped months of quiet, patient but determined efforts with the assistance of all sectors.
He was taken hostage by armed men in a Samal resort in Davao last year, September 21, 2015 with 3 others, namely John Ridsdel, Robert Hall, who were both beheaded, and Filipina Maritess Flor, whom I also recovered 3 months ago.
http://www.mb.com.ph/brief-statement-of-presidential-peace-adviser-jesus-dureza-on-release-of-abu-sayyaf-hostage/
Gunmen issue RM173,000 ransom demand for kidnapped fishermen
From The Star Online (Sep 17): Gunmen issue RM173,000 ransom demand for kidnapped fishermen
KOTA KINABALU: Gunmen holding the three fishermen abducted near Semporna on Sept 10 have demanded about RM173,000 (2mil Philippine pesos) for their release.
Fishing vessel owner Karim Musappa said he received a call from boat skipper Masurin Jamalan who told him that he had until Sept 19 to come up with the ransom.
The ransom was made when he received a call from Masurin on Sept 12, two days after the abduction off Pom Pom island.
“Masurin also called his wife twice and he told me as well that if I didn’t come up with the ransom, they would be beheaded,” Karim said in Tawau on Saturday.
He said Masurin also told him that he and the other two abducted fishermen - Sami Gani and Loloy Alpin - had been brought to an Abu Sayyaf stronghold on Jolo island.
Karim said he had immediately lodged a police report after receiving the call, adding that his fishing business had been severely affected following the abduction of the three crewmen.
“One of my vessels is undergoing repairs, the second has been detained because of the incident while the crew of the third boat is too afraid to go out to sea,” said Karim.
The three fishermen are believed to be in the hands of the notorious Abu Sayyaf leader Majan Sahidjuan also known as Apo Mike.
Apo Mike was reported to be holding five Malaysian tugboat crewmen abducted in waters off Dent Haven in Lahad Datu on July 8.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun had said that the three fishermen were safe.
All three were Filipino migrants holding IMM13 Immigration Department documents allowing them to reside and work in Sabah.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/09/17/gunmen-issue-ransom-demand/
KOTA KINABALU: Gunmen holding the three fishermen abducted near Semporna on Sept 10 have demanded about RM173,000 (2mil Philippine pesos) for their release.
Fishing vessel owner Karim Musappa said he received a call from boat skipper Masurin Jamalan who told him that he had until Sept 19 to come up with the ransom.
The ransom was made when he received a call from Masurin on Sept 12, two days after the abduction off Pom Pom island.
“Masurin also called his wife twice and he told me as well that if I didn’t come up with the ransom, they would be beheaded,” Karim said in Tawau on Saturday.
Karim said he had immediately lodged a police report after receiving the call, adding that his fishing business had been severely affected following the abduction of the three crewmen.
“One of my vessels is undergoing repairs, the second has been detained because of the incident while the crew of the third boat is too afraid to go out to sea,” said Karim.
The three fishermen are believed to be in the hands of the notorious Abu Sayyaf leader Majan Sahidjuan also known as Apo Mike.
Apo Mike was reported to be holding five Malaysian tugboat crewmen abducted in waters off Dent Haven in Lahad Datu on July 8.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun had said that the three fishermen were safe.
All three were Filipino migrants holding IMM13 Immigration Department documents allowing them to reside and work in Sabah.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/09/17/gunmen-issue-ransom-demand/
Sayyaf hungry for caliphate– Duterte
From the Philippine Star (Sep 18): Sayyaf hungry for caliphate– Duterte
“That Abu Sayyaf are no longer hungry for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy, they are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia,” he said in remarks before officers and men of the 5th Infantry Division in Isabela. File photo
Notorious for kidnapping and beheading of hostages, the Abu Sayyaf is now working to establish a caliphate in Mindanao and in the rest of Southeast Asia in response to calls from like-minded groups in the Middle East particularly the ISIS, President Duterte said yesterday.
“That Abu Sayyaf are no longer hungry for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy, they are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia,” he said in remarks before officers and men of the 5th Infantry Division in Isabela.
“Caliphate is the kingdom for Muslims,” he said. “The problem is they won’t talk on the basis of what you can give them; it’s either the caliphate or nothing.”
The President called on the troops of the Star Division, known for their skills in anti-guerrilla warfare in Northern Luzon, to re-orient themselves or do some readjustments so they would be ready to fight extremist groups.
“You have to reinvent yourself. Terrorism, although there is a front war, there is an urban terrorism,” he pointed out. “May banatan (There is fighting) maybe in Mindanao that’s really intense,” he explained.
“Unlike the NPA, which is on the move, the ASG are in an island. You have to train more, from being a soldier in uniform, to being intelligence operatives,” Duterte said. NPA or the New People’s Army is the armed wing of the communists in the Philippines.
“Just like in the Middle East, mamya magpaputok nang kotse yan (there will be car bombs). So it’s a long fight ahead,” he added.
In his speech, Duterte vowed to provide enough budget for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which he said, would not be left out during his six years in office.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/09/18/1624969/sayyaf-hungry-caliphate-duterte
“That Abu Sayyaf are no longer hungry for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy, they are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia,” he said in remarks before officers and men of the 5th Infantry Division in Isabela. File photo
Notorious for kidnapping and beheading of hostages, the Abu Sayyaf is now working to establish a caliphate in Mindanao and in the rest of Southeast Asia in response to calls from like-minded groups in the Middle East particularly the ISIS, President Duterte said yesterday.
“That Abu Sayyaf are no longer hungry for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy, they are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia,” he said in remarks before officers and men of the 5th Infantry Division in Isabela.
“Caliphate is the kingdom for Muslims,” he said. “The problem is they won’t talk on the basis of what you can give them; it’s either the caliphate or nothing.”
The President called on the troops of the Star Division, known for their skills in anti-guerrilla warfare in Northern Luzon, to re-orient themselves or do some readjustments so they would be ready to fight extremist groups.
“You have to reinvent yourself. Terrorism, although there is a front war, there is an urban terrorism,” he pointed out. “May banatan (There is fighting) maybe in Mindanao that’s really intense,” he explained.
“Unlike the NPA, which is on the move, the ASG are in an island. You have to train more, from being a soldier in uniform, to being intelligence operatives,” Duterte said. NPA or the New People’s Army is the armed wing of the communists in the Philippines.
“Just like in the Middle East, mamya magpaputok nang kotse yan (there will be car bombs). So it’s a long fight ahead,” he added.
In his speech, Duterte vowed to provide enough budget for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which he said, would not be left out during his six years in office.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/09/18/1624969/sayyaf-hungry-caliphate-duterte
Duterte bares P1-B donation to Philippine government
From Rappler (Sep 17): Duterte bares P1-B donation to Philippine government
President Rodrigo Duterte says he will use part of the donation – given by someone who doesn't want to be identified – to build field hospitals for soldiers
COMMANDER IN CHIEF. President Rodrigo Duterte poses with members of the Philippine Army during a presidential trip to Gamu, Isabela, on September 17, 2016. Photo by Raymon Dullana/Rappler
ISABELA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte said on Saturday, September 17, that the Philippine government has received a P1-billion ($20.9 million) donation from an individual who wants to remain anonymous.
Duterte mentioned the donation when he addressed the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army in Gamu, Isabela. He said he will use part of the amount to build field hospitals for the military.
"And 'yung mga field hospitals ninyo. I'd like to mention it to you now for the first time. Somebody is giving us one billion, to ‘yung sa mga….Davao meron doon hospital. We will complete it so that kung maari lang, ipauna ko ‘yung sa Jolo. Doon ko ilagay 'yung hospital na mga operating room, lahat na ng kailangan," the President said. (And for your field hospitals, I'd like to mention it now for the first. Someone is giving us P1 billion. These are...We have hospitals like this in Davao. We will complete it so that if possible, we will prioritize the hospital for Jolo. I will place a hospital there with operating room and complete facilities.)
Duterte did not name the donor saying, "he does not want me to mention his name." He did not discount the possibility that the person's identity would be "leaked out" later on.
The President said he will use part of the donation to build a drug rehabilitation center in Cebu.
Well-equipped military
Duterte reiterated his assurance to the military that its forces will get enough equipment in fighting terrorists in the country.
"What I can assure you is, for as long as I'm President, you will have all equipment and weaponry necessary to win the war or at least to defeat them in every fight," Duterte said.
Duterte also reminded them not to allow the country to "disintegrate" amid the drug and terrorism problems in the country.
"I am just saying that the ultimate warriors in the Constitution to protect the people is the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)....Just do what is the mandate of the Constitution and I will take care of you," Duterte said.
President Rodrigo Duterte says he will use part of the donation – given by someone who doesn't want to be identified – to build field hospitals for soldiers
COMMANDER IN CHIEF. President Rodrigo Duterte poses with members of the Philippine Army during a presidential trip to Gamu, Isabela, on September 17, 2016. Photo by Raymon Dullana/Rappler
ISABELA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte said on Saturday, September 17, that the Philippine government has received a P1-billion ($20.9 million) donation from an individual who wants to remain anonymous.
Duterte mentioned the donation when he addressed the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army in Gamu, Isabela. He said he will use part of the amount to build field hospitals for the military.
"And 'yung mga field hospitals ninyo. I'd like to mention it to you now for the first time. Somebody is giving us one billion, to ‘yung sa mga….Davao meron doon hospital. We will complete it so that kung maari lang, ipauna ko ‘yung sa Jolo. Doon ko ilagay 'yung hospital na mga operating room, lahat na ng kailangan," the President said. (And for your field hospitals, I'd like to mention it now for the first. Someone is giving us P1 billion. These are...We have hospitals like this in Davao. We will complete it so that if possible, we will prioritize the hospital for Jolo. I will place a hospital there with operating room and complete facilities.)
Duterte did not name the donor saying, "he does not want me to mention his name." He did not discount the possibility that the person's identity would be "leaked out" later on.
The President said he will use part of the donation to build a drug rehabilitation center in Cebu.
Well-equipped military
Duterte reiterated his assurance to the military that its forces will get enough equipment in fighting terrorists in the country.
"What I can assure you is, for as long as I'm President, you will have all equipment and weaponry necessary to win the war or at least to defeat them in every fight," Duterte said.
Duterte also reminded them not to allow the country to "disintegrate" amid the drug and terrorism problems in the country.
"I am just saying that the ultimate warriors in the Constitution to protect the people is the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)....Just do what is the mandate of the Constitution and I will take care of you," Duterte said.
Duterte said he will not allow any army or police to go to jail for doing job against terrorism and drug problems.
He also said that he had given Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana the "absolute authority" to buy whatever is necessary.
He also mentioned his earlier promise to convert his presidential planes to air ambulance, so the military could "save more lives."
Duterte added that in fighting the Abu Sayyaf, the army should reinvent themselves from being soldiers in uniform to being "intelligence operatives." Terrorism, like in the Middle East, Duterte said, has accompanying urban terrorism, even if there is a front war.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/146522-duterte-one-billion-donation-ph-govt
He also said that he had given Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana the "absolute authority" to buy whatever is necessary.
He also mentioned his earlier promise to convert his presidential planes to air ambulance, so the military could "save more lives."
Duterte added that in fighting the Abu Sayyaf, the army should reinvent themselves from being soldiers in uniform to being "intelligence operatives." Terrorism, like in the Middle East, Duterte said, has accompanying urban terrorism, even if there is a front war.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/146522-duterte-one-billion-donation-ph-govt
DSWD hopes to airlift relief to Batanes once weather improves Sunday
From InterAksyon (Sep 17): DSWD hopes to airlift relief to Batanes once weather improves Sunday
The Department of Social Welfare hopes to be able to airlift to Batanes on Sunday relief for Ivatans displaced by typhoon “Ferdie,” which scored a direct hit on the country’s northernmost province recently.
“Upon confirmation by the Philippine Air Force and weather permitting, relief aid for families affected by typhoon Ferdie will be airlifted via C130 tomorrow to Batanes,”the agency said in a statement Saturday.
The DSWD said that 2,710 families or 10,344 persons from Regions I and II were displaced by Ferdie (international name: Meranti). Of these, 20 families or 151 persons remain in three evacuation centers in Basco, Batanes, while 2,651 families or 10,063 persons have temporarily sought shelter with relatives and friends.
It said the shipment of 20,000 pieces of ready-to-eat Brown Rice Bars, 800 Family Food Packs, 5,000 Malong or blankets, 5,000 bottles of water, and three generator sets have been ready at Villamor Airbase since September 14.
Pending the arrival of the shipment, it said the DSWD-Field Office II has provided initial assistance to affected families in Basco, Ivana and Uyugan in Batanes.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132526/dswd-hopes-to-airlift-relief-to-batanes-once-weather-improves-sunday
The Department of Social Welfare hopes to be able to airlift to Batanes on Sunday relief for Ivatans displaced by typhoon “Ferdie,” which scored a direct hit on the country’s northernmost province recently.
“Upon confirmation by the Philippine Air Force and weather permitting, relief aid for families affected by typhoon Ferdie will be airlifted via C130 tomorrow to Batanes,”the agency said in a statement Saturday.
The DSWD said that 2,710 families or 10,344 persons from Regions I and II were displaced by Ferdie (international name: Meranti). Of these, 20 families or 151 persons remain in three evacuation centers in Basco, Batanes, while 2,651 families or 10,063 persons have temporarily sought shelter with relatives and friends.
It said the shipment of 20,000 pieces of ready-to-eat Brown Rice Bars, 800 Family Food Packs, 5,000 Malong or blankets, 5,000 bottles of water, and three generator sets have been ready at Villamor Airbase since September 14.
Pending the arrival of the shipment, it said the DSWD-Field Office II has provided initial assistance to affected families in Basco, Ivana and Uyugan in Batanes.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132526/dswd-hopes-to-airlift-relief-to-batanes-once-weather-improves-sunday
8 years after, state continues to block efforts to find missing Cordillera activist - groups
From InterAksyon (Sep 17): 8 years after, state continues to block efforts to find missing Cordillera activist - groups
Eight years since James Balao was snatched in front of a church in La Trinidad, Benguet, colleagues, friends and relatives of the missing Cordillera activist say the state the state continues not just to evade accountability but is also hampering efforts to find out what happened to him.
Balao, a founding member of the Cordillera People’s Allliance, was abducted by what are believed to be members of the security forces on September 17, 2008.
“Eight years since that day, the state continues to disown responsibility and desperately evade accountability for James’ enforced disappearance,” the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance said in a statement.
The CPA, which advocates the rights of the Cordillera’s indigenous peoples, has long been accused by security forces of supporting the communist revolutionary movement and many of its leaders have suffered harassment or worse because of this.
CHRA secretary general Imelda Tabiando said the fact that none of the scores of victims of enforced disappearances since the presidency of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has surfaced and no one convicted for their loss is proof “of the state’s failure in its responsibility to protect its citizens.”
CPA chairman Windel Bolinget said in the eight years they have searched for Balao, they have confronted “contemptible and desperate lies” even as the missing activist’s family continues to be harassed.
“We continue to hold the state and its security forces accountable and responsible” for Balao’s disappearance, the CPA and CHRA said in a joint statement.
“We are deeply frustrated that despite strong leads, motive, and evidence pointing to the military and police as perpetrators of this brazen violation, the investigation of the case has gone back to square one” they added.
They said they are pinning their hopes on successful peace negotiations between the government and National Democratic Front not only to finally shed light on and exact accountability for the enforced disappearances and other human rights violations but also to see the genuine implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132527/8-years-after-state-continues-to-block-efforts-to-find-missing-cordillera-activist---groups
Eight years since James Balao was snatched in front of a church in La Trinidad, Benguet, colleagues, friends and relatives of the missing Cordillera activist say the state the state continues not just to evade accountability but is also hampering efforts to find out what happened to him.
Balao, a founding member of the Cordillera People’s Allliance, was abducted by what are believed to be members of the security forces on September 17, 2008.
“Eight years since that day, the state continues to disown responsibility and desperately evade accountability for James’ enforced disappearance,” the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance said in a statement.
The CPA, which advocates the rights of the Cordillera’s indigenous peoples, has long been accused by security forces of supporting the communist revolutionary movement and many of its leaders have suffered harassment or worse because of this.
CHRA secretary general Imelda Tabiando said the fact that none of the scores of victims of enforced disappearances since the presidency of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has surfaced and no one convicted for their loss is proof “of the state’s failure in its responsibility to protect its citizens.”
CPA chairman Windel Bolinget said in the eight years they have searched for Balao, they have confronted “contemptible and desperate lies” even as the missing activist’s family continues to be harassed.
“We continue to hold the state and its security forces accountable and responsible” for Balao’s disappearance, the CPA and CHRA said in a joint statement.
“We are deeply frustrated that despite strong leads, motive, and evidence pointing to the military and police as perpetrators of this brazen violation, the investigation of the case has gone back to square one” they added.
They said they are pinning their hopes on successful peace negotiations between the government and National Democratic Front not only to finally shed light on and exact accountability for the enforced disappearances and other human rights violations but also to see the genuine implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132527/8-years-after-state-continues-to-block-efforts-to-find-missing-cordillera-activist---groups
'NO NEGOTIATION' | Duterte peps Army vs Abu Sayyaf
From InterAksyon (Sep 17): 'NO NEGOTIATION' | Duterte peps Army vs Abu Sayyaf
President Duterte speaks before the troops of the 5th Infantry 'Star Troopers' Division based in Isabela.
President Rodrigo Duterte appealed on Saturday to the Philippine Army for understanding, as he seeks to end the bloodbath between the government and Communist rebels through peace talks between the two sides in Oslo, Norway.
During a visit to the 5th Infantry Division, known also by the moniker Star Troopers, at Camp Melchor F. de la Cruz in Cauayan, Isabela, Duterte reminded the soldiers that their "natural enemies" happen to be Filipinos, too.
Duterte said that he, as President, was duty-bound to "seek peace for the land" in accordance with the Constitution.
"My job is to look for a way to end the killing of fellow Filipinos," he said.
He pointed out that the government was doing well in its pursuit of peace talks with the Left. "In the fullness of God's time, I pray we'll have that. We'll have peace in the land."
The armed forces must not relax once the peace talks with the Left is concluded. They must continue to train.
But he likewise warned that the government's problem "from the other side" had just begun, in reference to the Muslim insurgency.
"Mindanao is a very sticky issue," Duterte explained.
He said he had talked to Moro Islamic Liberation Front chairman Murad Ebrahim and vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar, who told him they should revive the peace talks.
Duterte said that he had also been in touch with Moro National Liberation Front founder Nur Misuari. The problem, however, was that Misuari was "ambivalent".
Duterte said Misuari had "lost control over the young men of the Moro generation," referring to the Abu Sayyaf.
"Abu Sayyaf no longer hungers for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy. They are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate, a kingdom, in Southeast Asia," the President said.
There was, he stressed, no negotiating with the Abu Sayyaf, not even when promised them schools and other forms of development initiatives, he added.
To them, Duterte said, "it's the caliphate or nothing."
He told the soldiers to "reorient or reinvent" themselves, given that the Abu Sayyaf was following the trend of "urban terrorism".
While the New People's Army was always on the move, with the soldiers doing the chasing, the Abu Sayyaf was static. "Pabilisan na lang ng tenga at mata (Your eyes and ears have to be quick)," Duterte said.
From being foot soldiers in uniform, they would have to become intelligence operatives, the President advised. He added that the Abu Sayyaf were masters of disguise. One "farmer" could just blow up a car to smithereens.
"Ang kalaban ninyo dito, sabog (You're up against explosives here)," Duterte warned.
He urged them to study ways of profiling possible bombers and terrorists, even as he said he had given the go signal for Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana "to procure whatever is necessary" for the soldiers – including protective gear and weapons.
During his speech, Duterte presented the third and final list of alleged drug personalities, including mayors, vice-mayors, assemblymen, municipal councilors, and police officers.
However, he only named two: Naguilian, La Union Mayor Reynaldo Flores, a so-called "high-value target", and Maasin, Leyte Barangay Captain Boni Sultan.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132530/no-negotiation--duterte-peps-army-vs-abu-sayyaf
President Duterte speaks before the troops of the 5th Infantry 'Star Troopers' Division based in Isabela.
President Rodrigo Duterte appealed on Saturday to the Philippine Army for understanding, as he seeks to end the bloodbath between the government and Communist rebels through peace talks between the two sides in Oslo, Norway.
During a visit to the 5th Infantry Division, known also by the moniker Star Troopers, at Camp Melchor F. de la Cruz in Cauayan, Isabela, Duterte reminded the soldiers that their "natural enemies" happen to be Filipinos, too.
Duterte said that he, as President, was duty-bound to "seek peace for the land" in accordance with the Constitution.
"My job is to look for a way to end the killing of fellow Filipinos," he said.
He pointed out that the government was doing well in its pursuit of peace talks with the Left. "In the fullness of God's time, I pray we'll have that. We'll have peace in the land."
The armed forces must not relax once the peace talks with the Left is concluded. They must continue to train.
But he likewise warned that the government's problem "from the other side" had just begun, in reference to the Muslim insurgency.
"Mindanao is a very sticky issue," Duterte explained.
He said he had talked to Moro Islamic Liberation Front chairman Murad Ebrahim and vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar, who told him they should revive the peace talks.
Duterte said that he had also been in touch with Moro National Liberation Front founder Nur Misuari. The problem, however, was that Misuari was "ambivalent".
Duterte said Misuari had "lost control over the young men of the Moro generation," referring to the Abu Sayyaf.
"Abu Sayyaf no longer hungers for independence in Mindanao. They are no longer hungry for autonomy. They are hungry for a fight to establish a caliphate, a kingdom, in Southeast Asia," the President said.
There was, he stressed, no negotiating with the Abu Sayyaf, not even when promised them schools and other forms of development initiatives, he added.
To them, Duterte said, "it's the caliphate or nothing."
He told the soldiers to "reorient or reinvent" themselves, given that the Abu Sayyaf was following the trend of "urban terrorism".
While the New People's Army was always on the move, with the soldiers doing the chasing, the Abu Sayyaf was static. "Pabilisan na lang ng tenga at mata (Your eyes and ears have to be quick)," Duterte said.
From being foot soldiers in uniform, they would have to become intelligence operatives, the President advised. He added that the Abu Sayyaf were masters of disguise. One "farmer" could just blow up a car to smithereens.
"Ang kalaban ninyo dito, sabog (You're up against explosives here)," Duterte warned.
He urged them to study ways of profiling possible bombers and terrorists, even as he said he had given the go signal for Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana "to procure whatever is necessary" for the soldiers – including protective gear and weapons.
During his speech, Duterte presented the third and final list of alleged drug personalities, including mayors, vice-mayors, assemblymen, municipal councilors, and police officers.
However, he only named two: Naguilian, La Union Mayor Reynaldo Flores, a so-called "high-value target", and Maasin, Leyte Barangay Captain Boni Sultan.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132530/no-negotiation--duterte-peps-army-vs-abu-sayyaf
Abu Sayyaf releases kidnapped Norwegian for PhP30 million ransom
From InterAksyon (Sep 17): Abu Sayyaf releases kidnapped Norwegian for PhP30 million ransom
Abu Sayyaf band flashing trademark IS one-finger gesture prior to beheading a kidnapped subject in Sulu. File image from video frame screen-captured by SITE Intelligence Group
Reports reaching Manila indicated that the Al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) released late Friday night their Norwegian kidnap victim Kjartan Sekkingstad at a remote village in Indanan, Sulu.
The area where Sekkingstad was released is one of the sites where government forces have been conducting a massive offensive against the ASG in the past few months, police and military intelligence reports said on Saturday.
A police and military intelligence report seen by journalists in Manila indicated that Kjartan Sekkingstad was released by his captors at around 10:30 p.m. Friday in the vicinity of Brgy. Buanza in Indanan, Sulu.
The intelligence report informed that Sekkingstad was set free after ASG received an estimated PhP30 million in ransom money.
The intelligence report said that the release was facilitated by Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Commander Tahil Sali.
Sekkingstad was immediately bought to the house of Sulu Governor Sakur Tan, in the middle of an electricity outage.
Sekkingstad, along with Canadians John Risdel and Robert Hall, and Filipina Marites Flor, were snatched in late 2015 while they were on vacation at Oceanview resort in Samal Island in Davao del Norte.
A few weeks after the kidnapping, the ASG demanded ransom for the safe release of their kidnap victims.
The two Canadians were beheaded by the ASG after they failed to receive the ransom money.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132531/abu-sayyaf-releases-kidnapped-norwegian-for-php30-million-ransom
Abu Sayyaf band flashing trademark IS one-finger gesture prior to beheading a kidnapped subject in Sulu. File image from video frame screen-captured by SITE Intelligence Group
Reports reaching Manila indicated that the Al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) released late Friday night their Norwegian kidnap victim Kjartan Sekkingstad at a remote village in Indanan, Sulu.
The area where Sekkingstad was released is one of the sites where government forces have been conducting a massive offensive against the ASG in the past few months, police and military intelligence reports said on Saturday.
A police and military intelligence report seen by journalists in Manila indicated that Kjartan Sekkingstad was released by his captors at around 10:30 p.m. Friday in the vicinity of Brgy. Buanza in Indanan, Sulu.
The intelligence report informed that Sekkingstad was set free after ASG received an estimated PhP30 million in ransom money.
The intelligence report said that the release was facilitated by Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Commander Tahil Sali.
Sekkingstad was immediately bought to the house of Sulu Governor Sakur Tan, in the middle of an electricity outage.
Sekkingstad, along with Canadians John Risdel and Robert Hall, and Filipina Marites Flor, were snatched in late 2015 while they were on vacation at Oceanview resort in Samal Island in Davao del Norte.
A few weeks after the kidnapping, the ASG demanded ransom for the safe release of their kidnap victims.
The two Canadians were beheaded by the ASG after they failed to receive the ransom money.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/132531/abu-sayyaf-releases-kidnapped-norwegian-for-php30-million-ransom
Task Group Roxas releases sketches of 3 more suspects
From the Mindanao Times (Sep 16): Task Group Roxas releases sketches of 3 more suspects
THE SPECIAL Investigation Task Group (SITG) investigating the Roxas night market yesterday released the artist sketches of the three other suspects in the Sept. 2 blast that killed 15 people and injured 69 others.
This is in addition to the bonnet-and-mask-wearing “prime suspect,” whose sketch was released last week.
Senior Supt. Michael John Dubria, the task group assistant commander, said the sketches of the three more suspects — all males — were based on the eyewitnesses’ accounts.
“They were seen acting suspiciously in the area before the blast,” Dubria said.
The first of the additional three suspects, tagged as A, is around 38-40 years old, 5’5 in height, muscular in built with fair complexion. The second suspect, tagged as B, is around 30 years old, 5’7 in height, slim in built with fair complexion.
The third suspect, tagged as C, is around 30-33 years old, 5’5 in height, slim built with fair complexion.
The prime suspect, which was tagged as D in the sketch, is around 30-35 years old, 5’7 to 5’8 in height, moreno with slim in built, and sporting a gouty. He was the one wearing a bonnet and a face mask at the time of the incident. He was identified to have placed the bomb at the busy Roxas night market.
Aside from the four suspects already with sketches, Dubria said there are five other suspects, three of whom are female, still with no sketches.
The police filed multiple murder and frustrated murder cases against the nine suspects in connection with the blast on Wednesday afternoon, 12 days after the incident.
The suspects are facing multiple murder charges based on the affidavit of the families of the seven out of 15 slain victims and multiple frustrated murder charges based on the affidavits submitted by 31 injured victims. Eight other witnesses have filed their affidavits. Other victims have yet to submit their affidavits.
Dubria said they have already identified the prime suspect, but refused to release his name to the public. The rest are still unidentified, as they are only named as John Does and Jane Does in the charge sheet.
The prime suspect was said to be the one who placed the bag with the improvised explosive device in the massage area that blasted, killing 10 persons on the spot and wounded 74 others. The death toll now stands at 15, as one of the victims, a pregnant massage therapist, died on Monday.
“We are coordinating with the City Prosecutors Office and all police units that are conducting operation against these people,” Dubria said.
The police chief belied reports that the prime suspect is the son of Zulkifli Abdhir, aka Marwan, a Malaysian who was one of the FBI Most Wanted Terrorists that was killed on January 25, 2015 by Special Action Force (SAF) officers during the raid that culminated in the infamous Mamasapano clash that led to the deaths of 44 members of SAF, 18 from MILF and BIFF, and five civilians.
Sayyafs free kidnapped Norwegian man in Philippines
From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 17): Sayyafs free kidnapped Norwegian man in Philippines
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-free-kidnapped-norwegian-man-in-philippines/
Abu Sayyaf militants tied the Islamic State have freed a
kidnapped Norwegian man following negotiations by former rebel group Moro
National Liberation Front in Southern Philippines, army reports said.
It said Kjartan Sekkingstad was released late Friday to MNLF
commander Tahil Sali in the village
of Buanza
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza flew to Sulu on
Saturday to fetch Sekkingstad.”No info on ransom,” he told the regional
newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
Dureza was also quoted by ANC Television as saying that
Sekkingstad was brought to the house of MNLF chieftain Nur Misuari where he
will stay until Sunday before flying out of Sulu.
Just last month, President Rodrigo Duterte told reporters
that private negotiators paid P50 million ransoms to the Abu Sayyaf for the
safe release of the 57-year old Sekkingstad, but the militant group demanded
P250 million more.
Norwegian Ambassador Erik Forner, who previously met with
Duterte in Davao City
Sekkingstad was kidnapped along with Canadians John Ridsdel
and Robert Hall, and a Filipino woman Maritess Flor in September last year at a
posh resort in Samal Island in Davao del Norte province.
Both Ridsdel and Hall were beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf for
failing to raise ransoms, while Flor was freed in June.
The Abu Sayyaf is still holding more than a dozen other
hostages, including Malaysian and Indonesian tugboat crew men and Filipino fishermen
kidnapped in Sabah in Malaysia
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-free-kidnapped-norwegian-man-in-philippines/
President Duterte to speak to the Bishops-Ulama Conference Monday
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 16): President Duterte to speak to the Bishops-Ulama Conference Monday
DAVAO CITY -- About 100 persons composed of Catholic bishops, Muslim Ulama, Protestant bishops and pastors will audience with President Rodrigo Duterte in time for the 20th Foundation Anniversary of the Bishops-Ulama Conference and the 44th BUC assembly September 19 at the Mergrande Resort in Davao City.
Davao Archbishop (Emeritus) Fernando Capalla, DD, chair of the BUC said among the invited guests are former Presidents Fidel V. Ramos, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Cebu Archbishop (Emeritus) Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, officials of the cabinet, police and military.
He recalled that it was in Ramos Administration when the BUC was first conceptualized and supported with its peace advocacies.
Capalla said Cardinal Vidal hosted the BUC’s inaugural ceremony while President Arroyo supported the organization morally and financially for nine years.
“Perhaps, it is the reason why the Aquino Administration ignored the BUC’s role in peace-making for six years due to the support it received from his predecessors,” he said.
Capalla said he will propose to the president to make its multiple chaplaincy in governance spread throughout the country.
He said it is only in Davao where formal ceremonies are preceded with ecumenical prayer by a priest, a pastor and an Imam.
“I will propose to the president to make the practice nationwide,” Capalla said.
Aleem Mahmod Mala Adilao, chair of the Ulama League of the Philippines, Eastern Mindanao lauded the Duterte Administration for the ongoing peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines, National Democratic Front and the New People’s Army and the ongoing convergence of peace agreements with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National liberation Front.
“It is great that the peace narrative is being pursued by the Duterte Administration in all fronts,” he said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381474000449/president-duterte-to-speak-to-the-bishops-ulama-conference-monday
DAVAO CITY -- About 100 persons composed of Catholic bishops, Muslim Ulama, Protestant bishops and pastors will audience with President Rodrigo Duterte in time for the 20th Foundation Anniversary of the Bishops-Ulama Conference and the 44th BUC assembly September 19 at the Mergrande Resort in Davao City.
Davao Archbishop (Emeritus) Fernando Capalla, DD, chair of the BUC said among the invited guests are former Presidents Fidel V. Ramos, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Cebu Archbishop (Emeritus) Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, officials of the cabinet, police and military.
He recalled that it was in Ramos Administration when the BUC was first conceptualized and supported with its peace advocacies.
Capalla said Cardinal Vidal hosted the BUC’s inaugural ceremony while President Arroyo supported the organization morally and financially for nine years.
“Perhaps, it is the reason why the Aquino Administration ignored the BUC’s role in peace-making for six years due to the support it received from his predecessors,” he said.
Capalla said he will propose to the president to make its multiple chaplaincy in governance spread throughout the country.
He said it is only in Davao where formal ceremonies are preceded with ecumenical prayer by a priest, a pastor and an Imam.
“I will propose to the president to make the practice nationwide,” Capalla said.
Aleem Mahmod Mala Adilao, chair of the Ulama League of the Philippines, Eastern Mindanao lauded the Duterte Administration for the ongoing peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines, National Democratic Front and the New People’s Army and the ongoing convergence of peace agreements with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National liberation Front.
“It is great that the peace narrative is being pursued by the Duterte Administration in all fronts,” he said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381474000449/president-duterte-to-speak-to-the-bishops-ulama-conference-monday
Cybersecurity Awareness tackled in DICT forum
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 16): Cybersecurity Awareness tackled in DICT forum
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the Zamboanga Sibugay Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Council recently conducted a Cybersecurity Awareness Forum at Sibugay Grand Plaza Hotel here.
Some 300 participants attended the event including representatives from national government agencies, local government units, the academe and other organizations.
The forum discussed cybersecurity in the Philippines with topics on cybercrime, cyber bullying, cyber harassment, cyber trafficking and cyber libel.
“Warfare has evolved into the cyberspace. Cybersecurity is not yet that organized. Through internet, cybercrime can cripple a country. Cyberterrorism can cripple a country’s economy. We need to be aware of these things,” Roderick Cruz, Cybersecurity focal person of DICT Cluster I warned the participants.
Board Member Eufemio Javier Jr., Zamboanga Sibugay ICT Council president said the online behavior of the youth is quite alarming. “Based on a recent survey, an individual spends 18.6 – 28 hours per week, 2.6 – 4 hours a day on the internet. Nowadays, there are many existing online scam, online libel, identity theft and other cybercrimes,” he stated.
BM Javier advised, “Pause before you post, think before you click.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Cealita Evans, a Washington-based cybersecurity consultant said to date, there are 26 cyber security bills being passed in the Congress. “A hacker can lock out accounts of various companies, then demand huge amount and that is easy money,” she declared.
Evans said that when we post anything on Facebook, we should practice being vigilant and important information must be withheld. She also cautioned that fake applications, fake plug-ins, data breaching, web defacement, internet fraud, credit card fraud, pornography, anti-voyeurism, among others are existing online.
“The role of government in cybersecurity is to help combat cybercrimes. Let us be aware of our rights against cybercrimes. Be vigilant all the time and do not depend everything on the police. We must also know how to police ourselves,” she concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1361473988800/cybersecurity-awareness-tackled-in-dict-forum
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the Zamboanga Sibugay Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Council recently conducted a Cybersecurity Awareness Forum at Sibugay Grand Plaza Hotel here.
Some 300 participants attended the event including representatives from national government agencies, local government units, the academe and other organizations.
The forum discussed cybersecurity in the Philippines with topics on cybercrime, cyber bullying, cyber harassment, cyber trafficking and cyber libel.
“Warfare has evolved into the cyberspace. Cybersecurity is not yet that organized. Through internet, cybercrime can cripple a country. Cyberterrorism can cripple a country’s economy. We need to be aware of these things,” Roderick Cruz, Cybersecurity focal person of DICT Cluster I warned the participants.
Board Member Eufemio Javier Jr., Zamboanga Sibugay ICT Council president said the online behavior of the youth is quite alarming. “Based on a recent survey, an individual spends 18.6 – 28 hours per week, 2.6 – 4 hours a day on the internet. Nowadays, there are many existing online scam, online libel, identity theft and other cybercrimes,” he stated.
BM Javier advised, “Pause before you post, think before you click.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Cealita Evans, a Washington-based cybersecurity consultant said to date, there are 26 cyber security bills being passed in the Congress. “A hacker can lock out accounts of various companies, then demand huge amount and that is easy money,” she declared.
Evans said that when we post anything on Facebook, we should practice being vigilant and important information must be withheld. She also cautioned that fake applications, fake plug-ins, data breaching, web defacement, internet fraud, credit card fraud, pornography, anti-voyeurism, among others are existing online.
“The role of government in cybersecurity is to help combat cybercrimes. Let us be aware of our rights against cybercrimes. Be vigilant all the time and do not depend everything on the police. We must also know how to police ourselves,” she concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1361473988800/cybersecurity-awareness-tackled-in-dict-forum
My job is to protect our country and make it peaceful for everybody -- Duterte
From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 17): My job is to protect our country and make it peaceful for everybody -- Duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday rallied the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to protect the people and maintain the country's integrity.
“The most important thing, we are workers of government, paid by the people because we are supposed to maintain the integrity of this Republic,” President Duterte announced in Camp Tecson during his meeting with AFP officers and enlisted men of the elite First Scout Ranger Regiment.
President Duterte said, “While I build a strong army, my job is not really na hanggang tingin lang diyan. It goes beyond higher and higher and that is to protect my country and make it peaceful for everybody.”
On the government peace efforts, the President said, “My job under the Constitution is to look for a peaceful way of settling disputes so we can live together, I can cross the ideological border."
He was referring to peace talks with communist and Muslim rebels, saying that “my job is to look for peace, not for me, not for us but for our children. Hindi naman lahat ng mga anak natin, mag-army, capable of doing, just studying and doing war until kingdom come. Somehow, in our generation, we have to look for peace or reckoning.”
The Commander-in-Chief recognized the gallantry of the Scout Rangers in the battle fronts and their contributions to the fight against illegal drugs. He was impressed at their firing skills when he personally witnessed a capability demonstration at the camp.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131474038995/my-job-is-to-protect-our-country-and-make-it-peaceful-for-everybody----duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday rallied the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to protect the people and maintain the country's integrity.
“The most important thing, we are workers of government, paid by the people because we are supposed to maintain the integrity of this Republic,” President Duterte announced in Camp Tecson during his meeting with AFP officers and enlisted men of the elite First Scout Ranger Regiment.
President Duterte said, “While I build a strong army, my job is not really na hanggang tingin lang diyan. It goes beyond higher and higher and that is to protect my country and make it peaceful for everybody.”
On the government peace efforts, the President said, “My job under the Constitution is to look for a peaceful way of settling disputes so we can live together, I can cross the ideological border."
He was referring to peace talks with communist and Muslim rebels, saying that “my job is to look for peace, not for me, not for us but for our children. Hindi naman lahat ng mga anak natin, mag-army, capable of doing, just studying and doing war until kingdom come. Somehow, in our generation, we have to look for peace or reckoning.”
The Commander-in-Chief recognized the gallantry of the Scout Rangers in the battle fronts and their contributions to the fight against illegal drugs. He was impressed at their firing skills when he personally witnessed a capability demonstration at the camp.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131474038995/my-job-is-to-protect-our-country-and-make-it-peaceful-for-everybody----duterte
President Duterte to visit Army Star Troopers in Isabela Saturday
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): President Duterte to visit Army Star Troopers in Isabela Saturday
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923837
President Rodrigo Duterte will visit the 5th Infantry
Division of the Philippine Army Star Troopers at Camp Melchor
President Duterte will be accompanied by Defense Secretary
Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, Gen. Ricardo
Visaya.
The Commander-in-Chief will be received by Brig. Gen. Paul
Atal, commanding general of the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.
He will be given arrival honors and will meet the troops at the gymnasium.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923837
Military troops' morale sky-high with series of Duterte visits
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Military troops' morale sky-high with series of Duterte visits
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923865
The morale of all soldiers, both officers and enlisted
personnel, is very high, thanks to President Rodrigo Duterte's visits to
various military camps nationwide.
This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo during a briefing Friday.
He said that having the Chief Executive in your midst, not
only the defense chief and ranking military officers, talking to you, shaking
your hand, and asking about your welfare certainly brings a huge morale boost to
troopers in the front-lines.
"He (President Duterte) really talks and cares about
the men on the ground. He also talks to the commander to hear for himself what
they really need in the field and how the government can address it immediately
for the good of our soldiers," Arevalo said in Filipino.
"There is no request within reason, by our soldiers,
that the President did not respond to positively," the AFP official
stated.
Arevalo said that this is the first time in military and
Philippine history that a president is taking time to make the rounds of
various military command headquarters to meet their personnel.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923865
No firm directive yet on what weapons to acquire from specific country - AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): No firm directive yet on what weapons to acquire from specific country - AFP
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923811
There is still no specific directive instructing the Armed
Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to acquire weapons and equipment coming from a
particular country.
This was disclosed by AFP public affairs office chief Col.
Edgard Arevalo in an interview Friday.
"We are still to receive any specific directive from
the Commander-in-Chief (President Rodrigo R. Duterte) and our Defense Secretary
(Delfin N. Lorenzana) instructing the AFP to acquire particular weapons and
equipment from a particular country," he added in Filipino.
"What the President said during his visit to (250th
Presidential Airlift Wing) was he was ordering Secretary Lorenzana (and other
military officials) to visit China
and Russia
Earlier, DND public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong
said the decision to look into China
and Russia
Specifically, he was referring to Republic Act 9184 or also
known as Government Procurement Reform Act.
"(Looking for new countries to acquire new military
equipment) is provided for in Republic Act 9184. The law dictates that we must
not limit possible sources of our materiel to only a few countries as this will
rob us of the opportunity to acquire what could be the best equipment,"
Andolong added.
In line with this, technical working groups of the Army, Navy,
Air Force and Marines have been continuously been conducting market research on
new hardware and technologies from many countries including Russia and China
"For the record, we also looked at the offerings from Sweden , Germany
and France
This is in wake of President Rodrigo Duterte's announcement
that Russia and China
"Of course, there are other considerations such as
cost, inter-operability with our existing equipment and personnel
capacity," Andolong pointed out.
The Philippine has traditionally sourced its military
equipment from the US , Israel , South
Korea , and Japan
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923811
AFP eyed to focus more on reservist program upgrades
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): AFP eyed to focus more on reservist program upgrades
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923915
As the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) concludes its
celebration of the 37th National Reservist Week Saturday, a ranking defense
official expressed confidence that plans to upgrade the capabilities of the
Reserve Force are now underway.
“I am confident that the AFP leadership shall continue to
focus its programs and activities in the enhancement of their operational
capabilities and readiness of our Reservists,” DND undersecretary Ricardo
David, Jr., said.
He added reservists will be our reliable partners in the
fight against illegal drugs, graft and corruption and criminality.
This year's National Reservist Week theme is “Laang Kawal:
Patuloy ba Naghahanda at Nagsasanay tungo sa Mapayapa, Masagana at Maunlad na
Bayan”.
As a leveling up activity, 15 provinces organized a Ready
Reserve Battalion (RRBn) adopting the joint force structure representing the
three major services.
The number of participating provinces will increase in the
succeeding years until 81 provinces of the entire country will have its
respective Joint Force Ready Reserve Battalion.
This organized Joint Force RRBn’s will assist the Unified
Commands during Humanitarian and Disaster Response Operations.
David also asked for support in the move of President
Rodrigo Duterte to make ROTC mandatory for our schools.
“The revival of the ROTC will inculcate the sense of
patriotism, the sense of discipline as we as the sense of good citizenship,” he
said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=923915
Freed Norwegian hostage to be presented to PRRD
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Freed Norwegian hostage to be presented to PRRD
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=923941
Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza will present freed
Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad to President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday.
Dureza said Sekkingstad was released by his captors around 2
p.m Saturday somewhere in Patikul, Sulu.
Dureza, who will fly out Sekkingtad from Sulu to Davao
Misuari volunteered to host Sekkingstad stay due to heavy
rains and nightfall.
According to Dureza, the men of Misuari and former Sulu
Governor Sakur Tan and other volunteers helped in the release of Sekkingstad,
who was schedule to fly out
Saturday following his releaae.
"I will fly him out of Jolo town tomorrow
morning," Dureza said, adding that the victim's first words when he spoke
to him on the phone was "Thank you to President Duterte."
According Dureza, Sekkingstad release from captivity capped
months of quiet, patient but determined efforts with the assistance of all
sectors.
He was taken hostage by armed men in a Samal resort in Davao
The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) freed Sekkingstad, the last of
the four hostages from Samal in Davao del Norte.
Last month following the beheading of a hostage minor, the
President said the ASG could not kill Sekkingstad because Php50 million was
paid for his "board and lodging".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=923941
Norwegian kidnap victim of ASG finally freed
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Norwegian kidnap victim of ASG finally freed
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=923936
The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) freed unhurt Norwegian Kjartan
Sekkingstad, one of four foreigners it kidnapped last year, due to massive
military operations in Sulu Saturday afternoon.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office
chief Col. Edgard Arevalo told the PNA that Sekkingstad was released at about 2
p.m. Saturday in Patikul, Sulu.
"Mr. Sekkingstad will proceed to the Provincial Capitol
awaiting the turnover to proper authorities," he Arevalo said.
Sekkingstad was abducted at Ocean View Resort in Samal Island ,
Davao
"The release of the kidnap victim is an offshoot of the
ongoing military operations to sustain pressure against the ASG and the
assistance of the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front)," Arevalo said.
Simultaneous land, air, naval and police operations
complemented each other putting pressure on the ASG.
Elements of the Naval Commander Amphibious Task Group 80.2,
which conducted amphibious raids in the islands of Pata and Kalinggalang
Caluang in Sulu resulted in the confiscation of 15 unregistered motorized boats
to include one confiscated by the PNP in Parang, Sulu and believed to be used
by ASG Alhabsy Misaya, who is responsible for kidnapping Indonesian and
Malaysian tugboat crews in the high seas these past months.
The boats were turned over to the Sulu MARINA for
disposition, Arevalo added.
He also said AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya
commended the efforts of soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who maintain
the operational tempo.
"He expects there will be more kidnap victims released
under the same circumstances," Arevalo said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=923936
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