‘Lot Of Noise’, Little Change In Philippine-US Relationship: State

From Breaking Defense (Oct 12): ‘Lot Of Noise’, Little Change In Philippine-US Relationship: State

Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative map of the UN tribunal ruling.

 

WASHINGTON: China continues to claim sovereign control of the South and East China Seas, but the Beijing is taking no actions to enforce its claims, a senior State Department official says.

“The point to stress is this: no one is stopping a US Navy warship. The Chinese are not stopping US Navy warships,” Daniel Russel, assistant secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific affairs, told me during a Defense Writers Group breakfast.

 Sen. John McCain and other lawmakers have pressed hard for the Obama Administration to execute more visible Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) in the region to demonstrate American resolve and ensure the sea lanes are free for all nations to use.

Russel made the intriguing point that the Seventh Fleet and its Pentagon leaders do not necessarily “announce every FONOPs, so some things are visible; some things are only visible to people with radar and tracking.”

“The Chinese are not being let off the hook,” Russel says, adding that the PRC’s “claims have lost any credibility” with nations in the region. Of course, China has no legal leg to stand on since the UN tribunal ruled incontrovertibly this summer that China has no legal claims to sovereignty over the South China Sea.

In other intriguing points, Russel told us he has seen no “material change” in the US-Phillipino relationship, while wryly noting “there’s a lot of noise, a lot of stray voltage” coming from Manila. New President Rodrigo Duterte, of course, has cast aspersions upon the character and parentage of President Barak Obama, insulted the US Ambassador to Manila and seemed to indicate his country would make major changes to its relations with the United States by stopping joint military exercises and expelling US Special Operations troops from the country.

Daniel Russel

“We’ve been through a lot worse in our 70-year history,” Russel says.

China is eagerly pursuing Duterte, hoping to pry the Philippines away from its treaty relationship with the United States. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang has confirmed Duterte would meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang on an Oct. 18-21 trip to Beijing, where they will all get to enjoy a “deep exchange of views” on regional and bilateral issues. That may not be a bad thing, according to the senior State Department diplomat.

As Duterte continues to speak big, the question that needs answering will be, is he actually doing anything to harm or fundamentally change his country’s relationship with the United States. As Russel put it: “There’s a difference between talking about these things and doing them.”

http://breakingdefense.com/2016/10/lot-of-noise-little-change-in-philippine-us-relationship-state/

Reds open to federalism, says Joma Sison

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 14): Reds open to federalism, says Joma Sison



RENDEZVOUS IN EUROPE Jose Maria Sison,Communist Party of the
Philippines founder.  INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

OSLO—Communist rebels negotiating peace with the government welcomed efforts Thursday to shift to a federal system, but said it was too early to tell what impact it would have on the talks.

Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Ma. Sison, who is also chief consultant for the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), said the revolutionary movement could agree to a federal system of governance.

President Duterte has been pushing for the adoption of a federal system, saying the present form of government had not helped the country move forward as development had always been centered in Manila.

“But it would depend on its features,” Sison said, stressing that it appeared that the government still had to complete a common framework for the proposed change in the system of government. He did not elaborate.

Comprehensive agreement

Sison said the issue would form part of the discussions in the next meetings of the peace panels. He added it would be taken up during the crafting of the comprehensive agreement on political and constitutional reforms,  one of the highlights of the recently concluded second round of talks aimed at ending decades of communist insurgency that has left thousands dead since 1969.

The peace negotiators have already agreed on the framework and outline for the agreement on political and constitutional reforms, he said.

Lawyer Rene Sarmiento, a member of the government peace panel, told the Inquirer that the discussions in the Reciprocal Working Group for constitutional reforms were “very fruitful” and consistent with the Joint Oslo Statement last August.

Exchanging outlines

“What we did was we exchanged outlines and we worked on harmonizing the two. In so short a time, the harmonization was completed because the two have common provisions. There were so many commonalities,” Sarmiento said.

The challenges, Sarmiento added, were only in the wording and because they had to agree on a commonly accepted term.

In the draft outline of the NDFP, there was no item on security reform but the government negotiated to have it included, Sarmiento said.

Civilian supremacy

He said the rebels would like to ensure civilian supremacy over the military and this could also be discussed in the agreement on the end of hostilities and the disposition of forces.

The common draft framework and outline have five parts including the declaration of principles; bases, scope and applicability; political and constitutional reforms; mechanisms; and final provisions.

Both parties agreed that political and constitutional reforms would have 12 sections, to include, among others, national sovereignty and self-determination, economic freedom and national patrimony, self determination, social justice and form of governments, and judicial reforms.
 
Electoral reforms

Sison said they also wished to see significant electoral reforms such as the cleansing of the party-list system to ensure that it remained faithful to its pro-poor objectives.

The NDFP was also proposing the introduction of a subsidy for political parties depending on their performance, similar to the practice in Europe, Sison said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/825166/reds-open-to-federalism-says-joma-sison

AFP Presents Gains in PRRD’s first 100 days

From the Armed Forces of the Philippines Website (Oct 14): AFP Presents Gains in PRRD’s first 100 days

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City-- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with General Ricardo Visaya at its helm as Chief of Staff, has attained substantial gains in its quest to combat terrorism and support the anti-llegal drugs campaign. General Visaya presented to the Secretary of National Defense, Delfin Lorenzana, the AFP’s accomplishment in President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s (PRRD) first 100 days as President of the Republic of the Philippines and Commander-in-Chief (CinC) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

During the same period, the AFP has likewise gained headway in support to PRRD’s quest for a just and lasting peace. It has caused the observance of measures for a unilateral ceasefire and the institution of incipient conditions conducive to a “peacetalk” between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

 

The AFP has ensured that all the orders, instructions, and guidance of the Commander-in-Chief reach all AFP units forthwith and by all means possible. Through its initiatives, it has paved the way for Twenty One (21) visits to the AFP’s major services, Unified Commands, and Division headquarters throughout the archipelago—a feat unparalleled and never before made possible and undertaken by a Commander in Chief.

In all those visits, the CinC was given full capability and situation brief by the respective commanders and provide the opportunities for face-to-face interactions with Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Civilian Employees of the AFP.

Following through the visits, the AFP through various ways and means, cascaded and localized the message of the CinC.

Gains in counter-terrorism

In view of President Duterte’s resolve to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), the AFP embarked on Five Hundred Seventy Nine (579) massive focused military operations four hundred twenty six (426) of which were meant to end the atrocity and notoriety of these bandits and allied terrorist groups. The operations led to fifty four (54) armed engagements resulting to the neutralization of 94 ASG bandits either killed, wounded, apprehended, or surrendered. (56 killed, 21 surrendered, and 17 apprehended/captured).

Key ASG leaders Nelson Muktadil, Braun Muktadil, and sub-leader Mohammad Said were among the terrorists killed and bodies recovered in intense combat and ensuing search and retrieval operations. At least 3 other ASG Leaders were also killed but were not identified by name because their bodies were dragged by their fleeing comrades. They were nonetheless reported by reliable informants to have been buried in known locations following customary practice of the Moros.

The AFP’s sustained combat and non-combat military operations backed by Police, government officials, and local residents led to the release or escape of fourteen kidnap victims leaving only twelve.

The AFP had launched a similar crackdown against terrorist groups in Central Mindanao. Forty Four (44) combat operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and other foreign and local terrorists particularly the Maute Group resulted to the neutralization of a total of 50 personalities and the confiscation of a large cache of high powered firearms, ammunition, and various other materials and equipment for making Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

The incessant drive to ferret out and bring to the bar of justice the perpetrators of the dastardly bombing in the Davao City Night Market in September 2 yielded breakthrough results. In October 4—or 32 days after the incident— three of its members were arrested. TJ Tagaya Macabalang, Wendel Apostol Facturan, and Musali Mustapha collared in a checkpoint operations in Cotabato City.

At 2 AM of same day, Teng Mustafa, father of Musali, was arrested as an incident to a lawful search by combined military and police operatives armed with search warrant. Confiscated from the unlawful possession of the elder Mustapha were high powered firearms and IED materials.

With the declaration of State of National Emergency on account of lawless violence, the AFP has committed a substantial number of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airmen as principal and reserve components doing mobile check points, visibility patrols, and other activities to ensure suppression of lawless violence and preventing it from spreading in key cities of Davao, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Zamboanga, and cities in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.

Meanwhile, a tripartite agreement among Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines was forged to address the maritime security concerns like kidnapping, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, and other transnational crimes in southern Philippines. The waters around, between, and connecting the islands of Zamboanga, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and Sulu are vital sea lines of communication.

Headway in counter-insurgency and peace process

Armed confrontation between the AFP and the NPA finally ceased after PRRD restored the declaration of ceasefire on August 21 after lifting it noting violations from the rebel group. The gesture of PRRD in restoring the erstwhile unilateral ceasefire declaration effectively reimposed the Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) earlier issued by General Visaya to all field commanders.

Further, peace-building efforts were exerted to ensure that line units are aware of the advocacy of the Commander in Chief, including the dissemination of the proposed reconstituted JASIG list and the release of detained alleged political prisoners. The original JASIG list was meant to identify communist members who will figure in the peace negotiations with the CPP-NDF and will aid in the implementation of the ceasefire with the rebels.

On the other hand, the AFP attended the workshop of the combined Secretariat of the GPH and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Davao City on August 28. The workshop reviewed the signed agreements/guidelines of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities that will aid refresh talks with the MILF as well as the MNLF to come up with a more inclusive peace plan.

War on drugs

The AFP’s anti-illegal drugs campaign was propelled by the signing of the Joint Letter of Instruction on August 24, prescribing the mission, concept, and tasks of the AFP and the Philippine National Police in the war on drugs. It also activated on July 24 with the PNP, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, and other law enforcement agencies also activated Task Force Noah mandated to conduct intelligence and counterintelligence operations.

These interagency efforts enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the steps taken to implement PRRD’s order to end the proliferation and use of illegal drugs in the country. To manifest its adherence to the campaign, the AFP conducted random drug testing within its ranks. Through Task Groups Jacob, Midas, Joshua, and Salamander, the AFP conducted random drug tests on 19,163 military and civilian personnel, allowing the identification of 44 individuals who tested positive to the use of certain illegal drugs.

 

With the purpose to establish a drug-free country leading towards a peaceful and secure environment conducive for sustainable development, the AFP also supported the implementation of OPLAN TOKHANG of the PNP through the conduct of 169 anti-illegal drugs operations, resulting to the arrest and apprehension of 191, surrender of 689, and killing of eight drug suspects.

Meanwhile, three AFP personnel offered their lives in this campaign while five others were wounded during the joint operations with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency against the group of Moks Masgal in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato in August 14.

The AFP opened its camps to host the rehabilitation facilities for drug dependents. The Philippine Army committed areas in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal; Camp Alfredo Santos in Calauag, Quezon; Camp Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz; Camp Kibaritan in Kalilangan, Bukidnon; Camp Lucero in Carmen, North Cotabato; Camp Paulino Santos in Alamada, North Cotabato; and the 401st Brigade Headquarters in Prosperidad, Agusan Del Sur.

The construction of the drug rehabilitation facility in Fort Ramon Magsaysay on a 10-hectare land in Nueva Ecija is nearing completion. The project, a joint venture of the Department of Health and the Army Real Estate Office, is expected to accommodate around 1,200 individuals.

AFP Modernization

The AFP also received its third Del Pilar Class Frigate on 21 July 2016. Named and commissioned as BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF17), the new weather high endurance cutter is currently being prepared for its voyage to the country from the US. Its crew is also undergoing training and preparations prior its departure from California in November 2016.

The second Strategic Sealift Vessel BRP Davao Del Sur was also launched in September 29 and is meant to add to the amphibious warfare capability of the AFP, as well as an alternate disaster response platform.

Five pilots and nine airmen from the Philippine Air Force also flew to the US on September 30 to inspect the newly acquired C-130T Hercules transferred to expand the AFP’s airlift capabilities.

The Philippine Army received additional 32 engineering equipment last August 30.

Conclusion

 

The AFP Chief of Staff General Ricardo R Visaya reiterates, “The AFP will be unwavering in its commitment to sustain its gains during the first 100 days of the PRRD. It is my vow to lead the professional AFP that is fully committed to support the Commander-in-Chief in his advocacy against terrorism, illegal drugs, criminality, and graft and corruption.”

“The next 100 days and beyond will be as challenging, but we will steady the course. The Commander-in-Chief has embarked on the voyage and set the waypoints towards our destination, we just have to adjust the sails accordingly. Our President and our people can count on the AFP’s unwavering support,” General Visaya said.

 

http://www.afp.mil.ph/index.php/8-afp-news/357-afp-presents-gains-in-prrd-s-first-100-days

Ceasefire with leftists, peace talks with Moro rebels highlighted in AFP’s 100-day report

From the BusinessWorld (Oct 15): Ceasefire with leftists, peace talks with Moro rebels highlighted in AFP’s 100-day report

EFFORTS to revive peace talks with Muslim separatist rebels and the ceasefire reimposed with leftist insurgents were among the gains made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during the first 100 days of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

These, among others, were highlighted in an AFP report specially produced to mark the President’s first few months in office and submitted to AFP Chief of Staff General Ricardo R. Visaya.

The country’s armed forces “has caused the observance of measures for a unilateral ceasefire and the institution of incipient conditions conducive to a ‘peacetalk’ between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF),” the AFP said in a statement.

Armed confrontation between the military and the NPA, the CPP’s armed wing, stopped after the Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) was reimposed.

The AFP also mentioned its efforts on reviving the peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front.

Members of the AFP attended the workshop of the combined Secretariat of the GPH and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Davao City on August 28. The workshop reviewed the signed agreements/guidelines of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities that will aid refresh talks with the MILF as well as the MNLF to come up with a more inclusive peace plan”.

Similarly, the military also cited its achievements in “its quest to combat terrorism and support the anti-llegal drugs campaign,” according to the AFP.

Mr. Visaya said that the AFP will remain supportive of the President’s objectives.

“The AFP will be unwavering in its commitment to sustain its gains during the first 100 days of the [President]. It is my vow to lead the professional AFP that is fully committed to support the Commander-in-Chief in his advocacy against terrorism, illegal drugs, criminality, and graft and corruption,” Mr. Visaya said.

He added: ”The next 100 days and beyond will be as challenging, but we will steady the course. The Commander-in-Chief has embarked on the voyage and set the waypoints towards our destination, we just have to adjust the sails accordingly. Our President and our people can count on the AFP’s unwavering support.”

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=ceasefire-with-leftists-peace-talks-with-moro-rebels-highlighted-in-afp&8217s-100-day-report&id=134921

Tough Philippine Fight Against Rebels Raises Tension, Support

From the Voice of America (Oct 14): Tough Philippine Fight Against Rebels Raises Tension, Support
 
CAGAYAN DE ORO, PHILIPPINES —  Parts of the southern Philippine island Mindanao are growing tense as the government steps up its fight against a violent Muslim rebel group, a campaign that weary locals broadly support but that troops and police may never win.

The government of tough-talking President Rodrigo Duterte declared a state of lawlessness in September to allow more police-military cooperation on wiping out the 400-strong Abu Sayyaf Muslim rebel group. In August, Duterte ordered his forces to “seek them out in their lairs and destroy them.”

Victory could help revitalize chronically poor, underdeveloped Mindanao, where fighting with Muslim rebels has killed about 120,000 people since 1970 and stained the island with a reputation for violence that in turn deters investors. About one-third of the country’s poor live in Mindanao, a breadbasket and wealth of mineral deposits with one-fifth of the entire national population.
Those factors give the campaign against Abu Sayyaf popular support in Mindanao.

“It’s something that has to be done because Abu Sayyaf has had a record of kidnappings and non-negotiable actions that need to be addressed by, I guess, military force,” said Antonio Ledesma, archbishop of the Mindanao city Cagayan de Oro. “In a sense, military confrontation might be what is needed at this time.”

People in Cagayan de Oro remember 2013, when Abu Sayyaf was suspected of setting off a bomb blast killed six people in a restaurant district.

About 500 kilometers to the west, in the 800,000-population city of Zamboanga, soldiers walk through the streets and police operate checkpoints on numerous street corners. At a street dance competition, organizers asked that mobile phones be switched off for five hours as a security measure.

Philippines, Mindanao map

Checkpoints, including one operated by a bomb inspection team, are also common now along the highways between Zamboanga and Cagayan de Oro.

Defeat for Abu Sayyaf would improve perceptions among foreigners of Mindanao’s safety for travel and business, said Rhona Canoy, 62, president of International School Cagayan de Oro and part of a local political family.

“I don’t believe they have any political fervor or drive that makes them do this,” Canoy said.

“They’re not raising funds so that they can increase their army or improve whatever. They’re just in it for the money. They’re just bandits. As far as people in Mindanao are concerned, that’s how we see them. Having them removed, well, yeah it would be nice.”

Abu Sayyaf is based in outlying islands in the Sulu Sea southwest of Zamboanga. At least three other Muslim groups in the same area are pushing for political autonomy and periodically kidnapping people, extorting money and setting off bombs to get attention.

Many of Mindanao’s 21 million inhabitants back Duterte’s fight because he’s from the island and has vowed to negotiate with two other Muslim insurgent groups, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front. Both groups have indicated this year they also want to talk.

The Moro people are Muslims who have occupied western Mindanao and the Sulu Sea since the 13th century. They had long sought more autonomy from European colonists and now want it from Manila.

 

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, sen in this Aug. 25, 2016, gestures with a fist bump during his visit to the Philippine Army's Camp Mateo Capinpin at Tanay township, Rizal province east of Manila, Philippines. The Philippine president has apologized Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gestures during his visit to the Philippine Army's Camp Mateo Capinpin at Tanay township, Rizal province east of Manila, Philippines.

But it’s not clear if Duterte or anyone else can win a war with Abu Sayyaf, a 25-year-old organization seen as Mindanao’s most violent rebel group. Many locals advocate for the president to negotiate with Abu Sayyaf as well as other autonomy-seeking groups.

“War will not stop it. The only best thing to do is to really talk to them. Because here in Mindanao, I believe they have the right for this land, but it’s not the right that should be broken,” said Clarence Miñao, a 36-year-old government employee in Cagayan de Oro. “Because we are all Filipinos, so we have different tribes like they’re Muslims, but we can live together safely if there’s peace talks.”

People in Cagayan de Oro also hope Duterte keeps the 50 to 100 American military advisers who are on Mindanao at any given time. Duterte has asked that they leave, for their own safety, after 14 years of help with forensics, kidnapping intelligence and cyber-crime.

The U.S. embassy in Manila indicated this month it was still working with the government.

Duterte has called for deploying thousands of his own troops to destroy Abu Sayyaf. In August, the government killed 22 rebels and lost 12 soldiers, but the following month a bomb killed 14 people in a night market in the president’s hometown of Davao City, possibly an act of retaliation.

Abu Sayyaf will be hard to beat, analysts caution. Local government officials and residents in the Sulu Sea area support the group as they get a cut from kidnapping ransom in exchange for funding. They have little trouble finding new recruits as needed.

“It’s a very loose organization and its membership shifts when necessary,” said Jay Batongbacal, University of the Philippines associate professor of law. “It almost operates more like a brand than an actual unit or movement, so I think it will be very difficult absolutely to exterminate.

http://www.voanews.com/a/tough-philippine-fight-against-rebels-raises-tension-support/3550332.html

AFP: 59 bandits killed in Duterte’s first hundred days

From GMA News (Oct 14): AFP: 59 bandits killed in Duterte’s first hundred days

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday claimed “substantial gains” in its campaign against terrorism and illegal drugs during the first 100 days of the Duterte administration.

In a statement , AFP said it has launched 579 massive military operations, 426 of which were focused “to neutralize” members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

“The operations led to 54 armed engagements resulting to the neutralization of 94 ASG bandits either killed, wounded, apprehended, or surrendered—56 killed, 21 surrendered, and 17 apprehended/captured,” the AFP said.

Among those killed were key ASG leaders Nelson Muktadil, Braun Muktadil, and sub-leader Mohammad Said.

“The AFP had launched a similar crackdown against terrorist groups in Central Mindanao. Forty-four  combat operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and other foreign and local terrorists particularly the Maute Group,” t he AFP added.

Fifty personalities have been neutralized from these operations, while several firearms and ammunitions have also been seized.

AFP also noted the capture of the three suspects on the Davao blast on October 4 as one of its successes.

At the same time, the recent declaration of State of National Emergency has enabled AFP to deploy “a substantial number” of military, navy and air force members to counter lawless violence in the country.

On war on drugs

The AFP said the efforts of the government to incorporate military in its campaign against illegal drugs have made it more efficient.

AFP’s support of the Oplan Tokhang, where houses of suspected drug personalities are visited, resulted to the arrest and apprehension of 191, surrender of 689, and killing of eight drug suspects.

“These inter-agency efforts enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the steps taken to implement President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to end the proliferation and use of illegal drugs in the country,” the AFP said.

“To manifest its adherence to the campaign, the AFP conducted random drug testing within its ranks.

Through Task Groups Jacob, Midas, Joshua, and Salamander, the AFP conducted random drug tests on 19,163 military and civilian personnel, allowing the identification of 44 individuals who tested positive to the use of certain illegal drugs," it added.

Several military camps have also been opened to establish rehabilitation centers, including the 10,000-capacity one currently being completed at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.

On AFP modernization

In its effort to modernize its operations, the AFP said it has received its third Del Pilar Class Frigate on July 21.

Aside from this, the armed forces has also launched its second Strategic Sealift Vessel BRP Davao Del Sur.

“Five pilots and nine airmen from the Philippine Air Force also flew to the US on September 30 to inspect the newly acquired C-130T Hercules transferred to expand the AFP’s airlift capabilities,” the AFP said.

“The Philippine Army received additional 32 engineering equipment last August 30,” it continued.

With all these developments, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya said the military would not falter in their commitment to sustain its gains during the administration’s first 100 days.

“It is my vow to lead the professional AFP that is fully committed to support the Commander-in-Chief in his advocacy against terrorism, illegal drugs, criminality, and graft and corruption,” Visaya said.

“The next 100 days and beyond will be as challenging, but we will steady the course. The Commander-in-Chief has embarked on the voyage and set the waypoints towards our destination, we just have to adjust the sails accordingly. Our President and our people can count on the AFP’s unwavering support,” he added.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/585068/news/nation/afp-59-bandits-killed-in-duterte-s-first-hundred-days

Court jails man 6 years over terror-related offences

From The Star Onlin e (Oct 14): Court jails man 6 years over terror-related offences

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has sentenced a 39-year-old car painter to a total of six years' jail over two counts of terror-related offences.

Judicial Commissioner Nordin Hassan sentenced Muhammad Aizam Mat Zin to four years' imprisonment for handling the property of an Abu Sayyaf terrorist group member and ordered the jail term to run from the date of arrest on March 22.

JC Nordin also sentenced him to another two years' jail for possessing some A3-sized paper and stickers related to the Islamic State (IS).

He instructed the jail sentence to run upon completion of his four-year term.

The judge meted out the sentences against Muhammad Aizam after he pleaded guilty to the charge Friday.

In his judgement, JC Nordin said any involvement with the terrorist group was a serious offence.

"We do not want to create disturbance in our country. Although the amount donated was small, the purchase of firearms and hand grenades would cause destruction. We do not want this to happen here," he said.

Muhammad Aizam was charged with knowingly handling the property of Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee, 41, by way of giving RM700 cash for the latter's use and benefit.

The offence was committed at Restoran Ras Hartini Tom Yam, Jalan 4/27A, Section 2 in Wangsa Maju here at 11pm on Dec 26, last year and was charged under Section 130Q(1) of the Penal Code.

The second charge under Section 130JB(1)(a) of the same code was for possession of the IS-related material at 6.20am on March 22 at a house in Taman Puncak Jalil, Seri Kembangan.

Asking for leniency, Muhammad Aizam's counsel Mohd Fadly Yaacob said that his client was a car painter earning RM3,000 a month and had a wife and three children aged 16, seven and one to support.

Mohd Fadly said Muhammad Aizam has repented and would like to return to his family.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohamad Mustaffa P. Kunyalam said the court should consider the seriousness of the case when meting out a sentence.

https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591#editor/target=post;postID=8784312657293668690

Assault weapons seized in C de Oro

From The Standard (Oct 15): Assault weapons seized in C de Oro

A SHIPMENT of about 6,700 rounds of ammunition for high-caliber arms and assault rifles from Metro Manila to Mindanao was intercepted by police and military agents at a port in Cagayan de Oro Thursday, law enforcement officials said Friday.

Two handlers of the cargo and a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front were arrested after the shipment—thousands of M60 caliber bullets and four rounds for the M203 grenade launchers—was seized.

This was the second shipment of ammunition and firearms intercepted after authorities arrested four members of a gun running syndicate supplying arms to the Abu Sayyaf Group.

The arms cache, worth about P6 million, included M203 grenade launchers, M14 rifles, M16 assault rifles and several boxes of ammunition. Two of the rifles were traced to the government arsenal.

Supt. Tom Tuzon, regional chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for Region 10, said the cargo was seized after they received a tip from military intelligence.

Tuzon said the two suspects planned to transport the ammunition and grenade launchers to Cagayan de Oro City, on a Philtranco bus on a roll-on roll-off vessel.

The ammunition was to be delivered to a gun shop in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

The Abu Sayyaf, the object of a relentless military campaign, has splinted into smaller groups after suffering heavy casualties, and is running out of ammunition, officials said.

They added that the ASG is looking for new weapons and ammunition to sustain the fight against the military, which is scouring suspect Abu Sayyaf lairs in the hinterlands of Sulu and Basilan provinces.

Police arrested Amer S. Macarangal and Jabar M. Mangadag at the Agora Bus Terminal in Cagayan de Oro. They carried other ID cards showing them to be Arimao Amer Sultan and Batawi Aratok Orangaga, with addresses in Butig, Lanao del Sur.

Butig is the base of the Maute Group which until recently pledged their allegiance to Isnilon Hapilon, purportedly the de facto leader of the Islamic State in the country.

The mountains of Butig are also the site of two of this year’s bloodiest military operations—one in February where almost 60 followers of Maute were killed, including Indonesian bomb expert Mohammed Muktar.

CIDG-10 chief investigator Senior Police Officer 4 Noel Oclarit said they intercepted the Philtranco bus around 9 a.m.Thursday, and arrested Macarangal and Mangadag after they claimed the shipped boxes.

“When we got the information and validated that the shipped boxes arrived on board the bus, we waited to see who would claim them,” Oclarit said.

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesman of the 4th Infantry Division of the Army said the success of the interception was facilitated by the sharing of information and coordination with law enforcement agencies and the military.

“We have intensified our intelligence gathering, considering the situation after the Davao bombing and the declaration of the state of lawlessness, in the hope of cutting off the supply of war materiel to armed groups in Mindanao,” Martinez said.

http://www.thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/218882/assault-weapons-seized-in-c-de-oro.html

USNS Millinocket Flexes in Philippine Archipelago during PHIBLEX

From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (Oct 14): USNS Millinocket Flexes in Philippine Archipelago during PHIBLEX



PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines— A line of Philippine Marines embark onto expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3) here Oct. 1. The Millinocket is here to embark equipment and personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines in support of this year’s iteration of Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 33) 2016. PHIBLEX 33 is an annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral exercise that is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions to include humanitarian assistance and amphibious landing exercises. (U.S. Navy photo by Grady Fontana/Released)

The Military Sealift Command (MSC) expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3) recently participated in Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX), transporting and supporting equipment and personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps’ 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Sept. 24- Oct. 15.

During PHIBLEX 33, the Millinocket voyaged to Okinawa, Japan, on Sept. 24 to embark 3d MEB Marines and gear, then continued to Subic Bay, Philippines. On Oct. 1, the Millinocket travelled to Puerto Princesa, Philippines, to embark Philippine Marines and equipment before commencing exercise operations at the Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales, which saw the vessel conducting ship-to-shore logistics and personnel maneuvers, and refueling operations.

The Millinocket is a 338-foot-long aluminum catamarans designed for rapid inter-theater troop transport and sea basing. The ship can transport about 600 tons of military troops, supplies and equipment for 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots on jet propulsion.

“(For PHIBLEX), we had a combination of Philippine Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps personnel and assets on the ship—approximately 200 short tons of cargo aboard the ship,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. James Richardson, logistics chief, 3d MEB. “The Millinocket is a good platform because the ship is small enough that we can get in and out of different places; it’s not like a big ship that requires tug boats to get into ports.”

With a draft of about 15 feet, the Millinocket is not only fast, but also flexible and maneuverable, allowing the ship to reach places in shallow waters that the larger steel-hulled ships cannot.

“The benefits that we gain in this platform is that we can get in and out in ports that are shallow, that have not been frequently visited by other MSC ships,” said civilian mariner Captain Erwin Lao, master of USNS Millinocket. “This platform is very flexible. Because we only draft 4.3 meters, and most ports in the Philippines are in that category, we don’t have any problems selecting ports.”

One of the features that gives the Millinocket a unique appearance is that the ship is not painted, maintaining the aluminum exterior finish, saving on overall weight.

“The benefit of not painting the ship is that it reduces the weight of the ship. T-EPF is after speed—in the last sea trials we reached 43-45 knots; our maximum speed,” said Lao.

Since the Millinocket was delivered to MSC in March 2014, the vessel has been limited to theater security cooperation events and exercise participation in the Pacific; however, the potential for this platform is still evolving.

“No doubt when it’s time to do some heavy deployments to different areas, such as a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) mission, this ship can be a great asset,” said Richardson. “Especially, due to the communication assets aboard the ship (that are critical during an HADR event)…this is a perfect platform for HADR; we can pull in anywhere and provide a service.”

To further enhance flexibility, the Millinocket has a flight deck that can accommodate the Marine Corps’ CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter. During PHIBLEX 33, the Marines transferred cargo and personnel from ship to shore in Luzon, Philippines, while conducting refueling operations from the ship, further enhancing Marine Corps and naval integration, and integration with the Philippine military counterparts.

In addition to organic capabilities, the Millinocket has a program called the adaptive force package, which allows the ship’s mission bay to be outfitted with different types of suites that are self-contained in customized shipping containers fastened to the deck. The adaptive force packages range from refrigeration units and added berthing, to medical stations and communications suites.

“We have a 22,000-square-foot mission bay; we can load supplies in there,” said Lao. “If it’s a medical mission, we can have those medical containers aboard and hooked up; it’s plug-and-play. In this PHIBLEX mission, we required an additional freezer and chill boxes. Once those boxes were hooked up, it was good to go.”

The Philippine Marines also found the ship accommodating and effective.

“Riding in this ship was a good experience,” said Philippine Marine 1st Lt. Miguel T. Sabando, acting company commander, 54th Marine Company, 4th Marine Battalion. “It had good accommodations and the crew was very hospitable in giving us what we needed. The biggest benefit of coming on this ship for us was that it was very large and accommodated our trucks and cargo. We need this type of ship for logistics support, especially if we were to have a natural disaster; this ship is beneficial to operations in the Philippines.”

Lao agreed, “I’ve seen this mission as one of the most successful I’ve been a part of. Philippines is an archipelago, there’s a lot of ports that have never been visited by deep draft vessels. This ship has a lot of capabilities and a lot of potential in shallow waters. We can get in and out of many ports.”

“It’s important to practice with the Philippine Armed Forces,” said Richardson. “If there’s a HADR and we utilize the T-EPF to come out here and support the relief, we could easily embark them. They get accustomed to working with us as well as we get accustomed to working with them. Since they’ve been on the ship, everyone has been meshing together; one team, one fight.”

PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. PHIBLEX 33 consisted of a maritime security-focused command post exercise; multiple field exercise events, to include an amphibious capability demonstration and artillery live-fire; and humanitarian and civic assistance projects. All events are designed to advance cooperation, improve interoperability and assist in strengthening our bilateral relationship. It includes forces from 3d MEB, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Combined Task Force-76, and the AFP.

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/211967/usns-millinocket-flexes-philippine-archipelago-during-phiblex

Secretary Maza expresses full support for Lakbayan IPs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): Secretary Maza expresses full support for Lakbayan IPs

National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) Sec. Liza Maza expressed full support Friday for the indigenous peoples (IPs) at the ‘Lakbayan ng Pambansang Minorya para sa Sariling Pagpapasya at Makatarungang Kapayapaan’, who arrived in Manila to advance their struggle for self-determination and a just peace.

IPs are among the poorest sectors of society due to landgrabbing of ancestral domains, destruction of natural resources by mining operations, displacement and human rights violations caused by militarization, and years of government neglect.

“It is high time that government put an end to these systemic injustices and instead recognize our IPs’ rights to self-determination and meaningful representation in the policies and programs that affect them as a way for the IPs to rise from poverty ,” said Sec. Maza.

The National Commission of Indigenous Peoples estimates an indigenous population in the Philippines of over 11 million.

According to the TEBTEBBA – Indigenous Peoples’ International Center for Policy Research and Education, ancestral domain titling and registration remains a ‘burdensome process’ which renders IPs ‘less able to prevent intrusion’ into their ancestral domains. Further, the free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) process, required for to the extraction of resources from ancestral domains, is being ‘manipulated in favor of mining companies.’

This arrangement is enforced by the presence of military personnel in ancestral areas that has led to massive displacement of IPs and the harassment and killings of IP rights defenders. From 2010 to 2016, 76 cases of killings of IP rights defenders have been documented, according to TEBTEBBA.

The Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (Katribu) has called for the ‘scrapping’ of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (R.A. No. 7942) which it said “legitimizes violations of IP rights by mining corporations,’’ and the passing of the People’s Mining Bill (HB 171) in its stead.

“The Mining Act of 1995 not only legalizes the plunder of our mineral wealth by giant corporations but also gives them easement rights, water rights, and timber rights. It is a total package that favors these corporations and not the Filipino people,” it said.

IP Sectoral Council Statement

Meanwhile, the NAPC Indigenous Peoples Sectoral Council (IPSC) released a statement on the celebration of the Indigenous Peoples Month of October, saying that “after 19 years of the evolution of the IPRA [Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act, R.A. No. 8371), its ‘four bundles of rights’ have yet to be achieved.”

These four bundles include rights to ancestral domains and lands, rights to self-governance and empowerment, rights to social justice and human rights, and rights to cultural integrity.

“If injustices against us are not corrected, the indigenous customs and traditions will disappear and the question becomes not a matter of possibility, but of time,” it said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931287

Annual 'Dagit' exercises to start October 17

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): Annual 'Dagit' exercises to start October 17

The annual "Dagit" inter-operability exercises between the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Philippine Navy (PN) will formally start on Monday, October 17.

Opening ceremonies will be held at the 15th Strike Wing Gymnasium, Naval Base, Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

Exercises with Air Force and Navy units will take place in Ternate, Cavite; Manila Bay and Caballo Island. It will last until October 25.

"DAGIT" exercises, which started in 2007, is designed solely for Philippine major military units and equipment.

Its goal is to improve the major services' joint training, rules of engagement, techniques, tactics, procedures in various situations.

It also aims is to improve existing PAF and PN’s operational capabilities in defending territorial airspace and territorial waters.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931211

PAF in the market for PHP17.6-M worth of SF-260 parts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): PAF in the market for PHP17.6-M worth of SF-260 parts

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has allocated the sum of PHP17,623,000 for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance and repairs of its SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 ground attack aircraft

Bid opening is scheduled for Oct. 18, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

The PAF has an estimated 30 to 40 SF-260 attack planes in its fleet and its primarily used for supporting ground troops in Mindanao.

It is an Italian light aircraft marketed as an aerobatics and military trainer. The military versions are popular with smaller air forces, which can also arm it for use in the close-support role.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931240

US turns over 24 equipment pallets to PHL Marines

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): US turns over 24 equipment pallets to PHL Marines

Twenty- four pallets of brand new counter-terrorism equipment were handed to the Philippine Marine Special Operations Group (MARSOG) by members of the US Embassy's Joint Military Assistance Group.

In a US Embassy in Manila statement Friday, the turn over took place at Clark Air Base last Saturday.

Donated equipment, which can also be used for fast boat operations, include tactical Harris radios, ballistic helmets, and diving gear, among other items.

The military equipment was transferred under a US grant program aimed at assisting security forces conducting counter-terrorism operations.

This equipment will help enhance the communications, situational awareness and protection of Philippine security forces actively engaged in counter-terrorism operations in the southern Philippines.

The Philippine Marines will also receive radio training as part of the US grant program.

In addition to MARSOG, the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force also received six pallets of new communications equipment from the US government.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931289

2 suspected MILF members nabbed

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): 2 suspected MILF members nabbed

The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) and the military have arrested two suspected members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in an entrapment operation Thursday at the Agora Terminal, in Barangay Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Seized from the suspects were thousands of ammunitions of M60 caliber and four M203 grenade launchers.

The arrested suspects were identified as Amer Macarangal and Jabar Mangadag.

Supt. Tom Tuzon, PNP-CIDG Region 10 chief, said the arrest of the suspects was based on the intelligence report received by the Intelligence Office of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that the two alleged MILF members will deliver firearms and ammunitions from Metro Manila to Cagayan de Oro City on board a Philtranco bus via roll-on/roll-off (RORO).

Initial probe showed that the firearms and ammunitions were supposed to be delivered to a gun shop in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

Macarangal and Mangadag are now facing cases of violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or “ The Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act,” and RA 9516, or illegal possession of explosives.

Authorities are now looking for the connection or contact of the two suspects.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931321

AFP reports significant gains during Pres. Duterte's first 100 days

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): AFP reports significant gains during Pres. Duterte's first 100 days

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has reported the significant gains in its counter-terrorism and illegal drug operations during President Rodrigo Duterte's first 100 days in office.

AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya said the military has also gained headway in support of the Chief Executive's quest for just and lasting peace in the country.

This includes a unilateral ceasefire and the institution of conditions conducive to the holding of peace talks between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), he said.

"The AFP has ensured that all the orders, instructions, and guidance of the Commander-in-Chief reach all AFP units forthwith and by all means possible," Visaya further said.

The AFP's initiatives, he said, have paved the way for the 21 visits made by President Duterte to the military’s major services, Unified Commands, and Division headquarters throughout the archipelago, a feat unparalleled and never before made possible and undertaken by a chief executive.

In all those visits, the President was given full capability and situation briefs by the respective commanders and provided the opportunity for face-to-face interactions with soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and civilian employees of the AFP, Visaya said, adding that the AFP has cascaded and localized the message of the President.

On neutralizing the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Visaya reported that the AFP has embarked on 579 massive focused military operations, 426 of which were meant to end the atrocity and notoriety of the bandits and allied terrorist groups.

The operations, he said, led to 54 armed engagements, resulting in the neutralization of 94 ASG bandits, either killed, wounded, apprehended or surrendered. Of the figure, 56 were killed, 21 surrendered, and 17 were captured.

Key ASG leaders Nelson Muktadil and Braun Muktadil, and sub-leader Mohammad Said were among the terrorists killed and their bodies were recovered in intense combat and ensuing search and retrieval operations, he said.

At least three other ASG leaders were also killed but were not identified by name because their bodies were taken by their fleeing comrades, Visaya said, adding that according to reliable informants however, the bodies were buried in known locations following the customary practice of the Moros.

The AFP chief said that sustained combat and non-combat military operations backed by the Police, government officials, and local residents have led to the release or escape of 14 kidnap victims, leaving only 12.

The AFP has launched a similar crackdown against terrorist groups in Central Mindanao, he said.
Some 44 combat operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and other foreign and local terrorists, particularly the Maute Group, resulted in the neutralization of 50 personalities and the confiscation of a large cache of high-powered firearms, ammunition, and other materials and equipment for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The incessant drive to ferret out and bring to the bar of justice the perpetrators of the bomb attack in the Davao City Night Market last Sept. 2 yielded breakthrough results, Visaya said.

Last Oct. 4 — or 32 days after the incident — three of its members were arrested.

TJ Tagaya Macabalang, Wendel Apostol Facturan, and Musali Mustapha were collared in a checkpoint operation in Cotabato City.

At 2 a.m. of Oct. 4, Teng Mustafa, father of Musali, was arrested by combined military and police operatives serving a search warrant. Confiscated from the possession of the elder Mustapha were high-powered firearms and IED materials.

With the declaration of a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence, the AFP has committed a substantial number of soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen as principal and reserve components doing mobile checkpoints, visibility patrols, and other activities to ensure suppression of lawless violence and preventing it from spreading in key cities of Davao, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Zamboanga, and cities in Metro Manila and other parts of the country, Visaya said.
Meanwhile, a tripartite agreement among Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines was forged to address maritime security concerns, such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, and other transnational crimes in southern Philippines.

The waters around, between and connecting the islands of Zamboanga, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu are vital sea lines of communication.

Visaya further reported that armed confrontation between the AFP and the NPA finally ceased after President Duterte restored the declaration of ceasefire on Aug. 21, after lifting it due to violations made by the rebel group.

The Chief Executive's gesture in restoring the erstwhile unilateral ceasefire declaration effectively reimposed the suspension of military operations earlier issued by Visaya to all field commanders.

Furthermore, peace-building efforts were exerted to ensure that line units were aware of the advocacy of the President, including the dissemination of the proposed reconstituted JASIG list and the release of detained alleged political prisoners, Visaya said.

The original JASIG list was meant to identify communist members who will join the peace negotiations with the NDF and will aid in the implementation of the ceasefire with the rebels.

On the other hand, the AFP attended the workshop of the combined Secretariat of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Davao City on August 28.

The workshop reviewed the signed agreements/guidelines of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities that will aid fresh talks with the MILF as well as the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to come up with a more inclusive peace plan.

Visaya meanwhile said the AFP’s anti-illegal drug campaign was propelled by the signing of the Joint Letter of Instruction on Aug. 24, prescribing the mission, concept, and tasks of the AFP and the Philippine National Police in the war on drugs.

It also activated on July 24 with the PNP, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), National Bureau of Investigation, and other law enforcement agencies Task Force Noah on intelligence and counterintelligence operations.

These inter-agency efforts enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the steps taken to implement President Duterte's order to end the proliferation and use of illegal drugs in the country, Visaya said.

To manifest its adherence to the campaign, the AFP conducted random drug tests within its ranks.

Through Task Groups Jacob, Midas, Joshua, and Salamander, the AFP conducted random drug tests on 19,163 military and civilian personnel, leading to the identification of 44 individuals who tested positive for the use of certain illegal drugs.

To establish a drug-free country leading towards a peaceful and secure environment conducive to sustainable development, the AFP also supported the implementation of Oplan Tokhang of the PNP through the conduct of 169 anti-illegal drugs operations, resulting in the arrest of 191, surrender of 689, and killing of eight drug suspects, Visaya said.

Three AFP personnel offered their lives in this campaign while five others were wounded during the joint operations with PDEA against the group of Moks Masgal in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato on August 14, Visaya said.

The AFP also opened its camps to host the rehabilitation facilities for drug dependents.

The Philippine Army committed areas in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal; Camp Alfredo Santos in Calauag, Quezon; Camp Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz; Camp Kibaritan in Kalilangan, Bukidnon; Camp Lucero in Carmen, North Cotabato; Camp Paulino Santos in Alamada, North Cotabato; and the 401st Brigade Headquarters in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

The construction of the drug rehabilitation facility in Fort Ramon Magsaysay on a 10-hectare land in Nueva Ecija is nearing completion.

The project, a joint venture of the Department of Health and the Army Real Estate Office, is expected to accommodate 1,200 individuals.

The AFP also received its third Del Pilar class frigate on July 21.

Named and commissioned as BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), the new weather high endurance cutter is currently being prepared for its voyage to the country from the US.

Its crew is undergoing training and preparations prior to its departure from California in November.
The second strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao del Sur was also launched on Sept. 29 and is meant to add to the amphibious warfare capability of the AFP, as well as an alternative disaster response platform.
Five pilots and nine airmen from the Philippine Air Force also flew to the US on Sept. 30 to inspect the newly acquired C-130T Hercules transferred to expand the AFPs airlift capabilities.

The Philippine Army received additional 32 engineering equipment last August 30.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=931329

Best chance for peace under Duterte administration, says former OPAPP executive

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): Best chance for peace under Duterte administration, says former OPAPP executive

The government reaching a final peace deal with the communist movement as well as achieving a full implementation of existing peace agreements with the two Moro fronts is more possible than ever under the Duterte administration, according to a former executive of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Jose Lorena, former OPAPP Undersecretary for the Bangsamoro and currently serving as one of the agency’s senior consultants, said the current administration has an overwhelming political will to generate the needed public support to the country’s over-all peace process.

“What is crucial to a successful peace deal is the public support. Without it, the ultimate goal of any peace agreements will not be fully achieved,” Lorena told students of the University of the Philippines Cebu during a recent peace forum held in the city. “President Duterte hails from Mindanao, which has an active presence of Moro rebels and communist movement. He knows the sentiments and the underlying factors of the conflict.”

Lorena gave students who attended the forum an overview of the current administration's comprehensive six-point peace plan which underscores several thrusts on how to deal with the rebel groups politically and the implementation of socio-economic programs to spur development in conflict-affected and conflict-prone communities across the country.

Peace negotiators of both the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) have recently concluded their second round of talks in Oslo, Norway. Among the agenda were the revitalization of the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) for the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), bilateral ceasefire, comprehensive agreements on socio-economic reforms (CASER), political and constitutional reforms (PCR) and the end of hostilities/disposition of forces (EOH-DOF).

The Implementing Panels of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), meanwhile, are also set to meet in the next few weeks to discuss the creation of the new Bangsamoro Transition Commission, which is tasked to draft a new enabling law for the future Bangsamoro government in Mindanao. Developments pertinent to the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) are also underway.

During the forum, Lorena urged the youth to actively engage in the peace process, saying they will eventually inherit the positive outputs of the current peace efforts. “[The] youth should take full responsibility to understand the history of these peace processes. Unity can only be achieved through understanding. It is a challenge and journey for the youth to accept because they will after all carry the leadership in the future.” (OPAPP)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141476358843/best-chance-for-peace-under-duterte-administration-says-former-opapp-executive

Gov’t unions, people’s orgs unite to pursue Movement for Change

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 14): Gov’t unions, people’s orgs unite to pursue Movement for Change

Various government unions led by the Social Welfare Employees Association of the Philippines  (SWEAP); Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE); and, people’s organizations such as Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (KADAMAY), representing the urban poor; and, GABRIELA representing women, gathered at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office yesterday, to push for “tunay na pagbabago” (Real change) under the banner “Kawani at Mamamayan Para sa Pagbabago”.

Manuel Baclagon, SWEAP National President, outlined the 15-Puntong Adyenda ng Mamamayan sa Pagbabago being pursued by the Movement for Change which was agreed upon by different organizations during the People’s Summit held last June 29, 2016 at the University of the Philippines.

This was presented to President Rodrigo R. Duterte during his inauguration and the proponents are hoping that he will respond to this in the soonest possible time.

These are:

1. Ipaglaban ang karapatan ng bansang magpursige sa sarili at ang dangal ng teritoryo ng Pilipinas.
2. Igalang ang karapatang pantao.
3. Igiit ang kalayaang pang-ekonomiya.
4. Ilunsad ang pambansang industriyalisasyon.
5. Ipatupad ang tunay na reporma sa lupa.
6. Itaas ang sahod at ang pamumuhay ng mga manggagawa.
7. Palawakin ang serbisyong panlipunan.
8. Itigil ang pandarambong at lahat ng anyo ng katiwalian at korapsyon.
9. Bawasan ang badyet militar at ilaan sa pagpapaunlad ng ekonomiya at serbisyong panlipunan.
10. Itaguyod ang makabayan, demokratiko, siyentipiko at progresibong sistema ng edukasyon at kultura.
11. Itaguyod ang pagkapantay ng kasarian at bakahin ang diskriminasyong sekswal.
12. Tiyakin ang nararapat na paggamit ng mga likas na yaman at pangalagaan ang kalikasan.
13. Igalang ang karapatan ng pambansang minorya.
14. Ipagpatuloy ang negosasyong pangkapayapaan sa National Democratic Front (NDF) at Moro Islamic Liberation Front  (MILF).
15. Ipursige ang isang malayang patakarang panlabas.

The discussion focused on the issues and gains of the Duterte administration in its first 100 days vis-à-vis the concerns of the affected sectors, such as the urban poor, women,​ and militant groups.

Sharon Cabusao, a former political prisoner,​ stated that they “feel hopeful because of the mere fact that the peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front Party (NDFP) are proceeding and these have positive effects on the case of political prisoners.”

They are also optimistic that the General Amnesty for all political prisoners will be granted soon since the deadline is on October 21.

Meanwhile, Nanay Inday Bagsabas, National Vice-President of KADAMAY, emphasized the need for permanent, decent job, housing, and sufficient wages.

On the other hand, Atty. Catherine Panganiban, from the office of Gabriela Party List Representative Emmi De Jesus, summed up the issues and concerns affecting women in the acronym CHANGE which stands for Comprehensive social services focused on health, education and housing; Human rights and social justice; Anti-discrimination and anti-violence against women and their children; National Sovereignty; Genuine land reform and national industrialization; and Environmental protection and disaster preparedness.

For her part, DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo enumerated the gains of the Department under her leadership in the first 100 days of the Duterte administration which include assistance to Lumads who returned to their ancestral lands, repatriation of OFWs stranded in Saudi Arabia, GRP and NDFP Peace Talks, Anti-Drugs Campaign, and the pursuit of an independent foreign policy, among others.

Sec. Taguiwalo emphasized that the DSWD is geared towards providing, “Tunay na malasakit sa mga mamamayan, tapat na paglilingkod na walang puwang ang katiwalian, at patas na pagtrato sa komunidad  (Compassionate and genuine service to the needy, with no hint of corruption and equal treatment to everyone in the community).”

Sec. Taguiwalo also stressed on the importance of uniting the people to act on their rights and interest as any meaningful change can only come from the people.  “They are the real makers of history,” she added.

Also present at the forum was Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) who provided updates on the clamor to end contractualization or ENDO,  and the call to raise the salaries of workers and employees both from the private and public sector. He said that even though President Duterte has already declared an order to end contractualization, the workers and people should continue to act towards these goals and to assert their rights; contractualization has been ongoing for many decades now and is deeply entrenched in the system.

The forum ended with an open forum between the guest speakers and the employees from different government agencies.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141476359501/gov-t-unions-people-s-orgs-unite-to-pursue-movement-for-change