LOOK: Japanese experts train with Philippine Coast Guard

From Update.Ph (Nov 18): LOOK: Japanese experts train with Philippine Coast Guard 



The Philippine Coast Guard has conducted the two-day 10th Sea-Borne Maritime Law Enforcement (MARLEN) Training Exercise in the vicinity waters of Manila Bay on November 16 and 17.

The tringing exercise was conducted with four officers from the Japan Coast Guard together with the Japan International Cooperation Agency representatives, the Coast Guard said.

“The exercise aims is to further develop the skills of personnel aboard PCG floating assets in addressing illegal fishing activities conducted by foreign vessel by obtaining the essential pieces of evidence in proving a crime and to enhance communication coordination,” Coast Guard said.



http://www.update.ph/2016/11/japanese-experts-train-with-philippine-coast-guard/11089

Vietnam extending South China Sea runway - US think tank

From InterAksyon (Nov 18): Vietnam extending South China Sea runway - US think tank

Vietnam is extending a runway on an island it claims in the South China Sea in apparent response to China's building of military facilities on artificial islands in the region, a US think tank reported on Thursday.

Satellite images taken this month showed Vietnam had lengthened its runway on Spratly Island from less than 2,500 feet (760 meters) to more than 3,300 feet (1 kilometer), Washington's Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative said.

AMTI, a project of the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank, said continued reclamation work would likely mean the runway was extended to more than 4,000 feet (1.2 kilometers).

It said the upgraded runway would be able to accommodate maritime surveillance aircraft and transport planes, as well as combat aircraft.

The report said Vietnam had added about 57 acres (23 hectares) of land to Spratly Island in recent years, but its reclamation work remained modest by Chinese standards.

China has built military-length runways on three artificial islands it has built up in the South China Sea since 2013.

The United States, which has criticized China's reclamation work in the South China Sea and stepped up defense cooperation with Vietnam in response, said it was aware of the reports that Hanoi had upgraded some of its facilities on outposts in the Spratly Islands.

"We encourage all claimants to take steps to lower tensions and peacefully resolve differences," said Anna Richey-Allen, a spokeswoman for the US State Department.

Reuters reported in August that Vietnam had discreetly fortified several of its islands in the disputed South China Sea with mobile rocket launchers capable of striking China's runways and military installations across the vital trade route.

Military analysts said the deployment of the launchers was the most significant defensive move Vietnam has made on its holdings in the South China Sea in decades and it underscored Hanoi's concerns about China's assertive pursuit of territorial claims in the disputed region.

Vietnam's Foreign Ministry has called the information "inaccurate," without elaborating.

http://interaksyon.com/article/134441/vietnam-extending-south-china-sea-runway---us-think-tank

Teachers renew call for release of detained colleagues

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Nov 17): Teachers renew call for release of detained colleagues



A group of volunteer educators who are teaching Lumad children in Mindanao has renewed its call  for the immediate release of their colleagues who were accused of being members of the New People’s Army.

Dominiciano Muya and Amelia Pond were Lumad educators who was arrested by authorities in two separate occasions.  Muya was a school agriculturist of Salugpungan Ta ‘Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center, Inc. in Talaingod, Davao del Norte while Muya, a researcher and educator of the same school was nabbed by authorities in October 2014 in Tagum City.

In a news conference Thursday, the Association for Community Educators has urged the government to release Muya and Pond because the two Lumad educators were elderly and sick.

“They should be released because they are sickly,” Ronnie Garcia, executive director of STTICLCI, said.Garcia noted that Muya and Pond were detained because of “trumped-up charges.”

Muya is currently detained in an isolated prison facility in Malaybalay, Bukidnon. Garcia said he is suffering with pneumonia, bronchitis, and was reportedly reinfected again with tuberculosis.

Pond is now under a hospital arrest which Garcia claims that her condition may lead to paralysis due to her poor health condition.

Garcia said that Compostela Valley’s prison facility where Pond was detained provided discomfort to her.

“She [Pond] slept near the comfort room,” he said, adding that Pond is now at Southern Philippines Medical Center under a tight watch of police and military personnel.

Attack on schools

According to Arjay Perez, secretary general of ACE,  said  volunteer teachers have been offered to transfer to Department of Education public schools.

“Officials of DepEd in the region themselves were stopping us from giving services to the Lumad schools,” Perez said.

He said that it should provide instead a subsidy in terms of “technical support” for their schools.
For his part, Ramel Miguel, chairperson of ACE, has expressed hopes that the attacks against IP schools should end.

“We are really hoping that the harassment will end,” he said.

Per records of Save our Schools Network, from October 2015 to September 2016, the total number of recorded violations reached 61; four cases of military encampment in school.

The group also documented 10 cases of military encampment in the community, five cases of forced evacuation, eight cases of vilification and red-tagging, and 33 cases of threats, harassment and intimidation.

http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/teachers-renew-call-for-release-of-detained-colleagues/

Reds hit Army for truce violation on Panay Island

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 18): Reds hit Army for truce violation on Panay Island
Communist rebels on Panay Island have accused government troops of violating the indefinite ceasefire declared by President Duterte, saying soldiers continue combat patrols, intelligence-gathering and “psychological warfare” operations in villages in Iloilo, Antique and Capiz provinces.

In an e-mailed statement, Julian Paisano, spokesperson of the political department of Coronacion
Chiva “Waling-Waling” Command of the New People’s Army (NPA), said troops belonging to the 82nd Infantry Battalion (IB) and 61st IB maintain detachments in populated areas in violation of international humanitarian law and rules of war.

But Capt. Gizelle Lim, spokesperson of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, said activities of soldiers have been confined to socio-civic campaigns in cooperation with government agencies and nongovernment organizations.

Paisano said residents suspected of being sympathetic to rebels were being threatened by soldiers.

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“These directly violate the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, the first agreement signed by both the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP),” Paisano said.

He said NPA units have intentionally avoided soldiers to prevent clashes.
Lim denied Paisano’s allegations.

She said government troops have been helping civilian agencies in conducting livelihood training, delivery of social services and assistance.

“We continue to observe the suspension of military operations (Somo) order,” she told the Inquirer.
Lim said the Somo does not direct soldiers to be confined in their headquarters but to suspend offensive operations.

Troops conducting socio-civic activities are armed to protect themselves and members of organizations helping them.

In a separate statement, NDFP peace panel member Benito Tiamzon said continuing military operations “are making the situation on the ground untenable and endangering even the fragile unilateral ceasefires currently in place.”

The government and NDFP each declared an indefinite unilateral ceasefire as part of confidence-building measures in the peace negotiations aimed at ending the 48-year-old communist insurgency.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/845279/reds-hit-army-for-truce-violation-on-panay-island

Ex-communist rebel shot dead in Compostela Valley

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 18): Ex-communist rebel shot dead in Compostela Valley

Gunmen on a motorcycle shot and killed a former communist rebel-turned-trader in Monkayo, Compostela Valley on Thursday, police on Friday said.

Ruel Labrador died from multiple gunshot wounds after being attacked in Barangay (village) Poblacion past 11 a.m., according to Chief Insp. Jerry Abrogina, officer-in-charge of the Monkayo police station.

Abrogina said initial investigation revealed that Labrador was riding on his motorcycle along a road in Poblacion when two assailants on another motorbike drove alongside him. The backrider then shot the 50-year-old victim several times using a handgun. The suspects then fled.

“He was allegedly a former NPA (New People’s Army) member and was now into banana trading after surrendering to authorities,” Abrogina told the Inquirer by phone.

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Senior Supt Armando de Leon, the acting Compostela Valley police chief, said Labrador had standing arrest warrants for murder and other crimes.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/845382/ex-communist-rebel-shot-dead-in-compostela-valley

Sulu Sea must not become ‘New Somalia’ — Hishammuddin

From the Borneo Post (Nov 18): Sulu Sea must not become ‘New Somalia’ — Hishammuddin



Hishammuddin (right) with Delfin Lorenzana, Secretary of Defence for the Philippines (second right) and Gen (Rtd) Ryamizard Ryacudu, Minister of Defence for Indonesia (left) during the Fourth Trilateral Ministerial Level Meeting on the Sulu Seas Initiative on the sidelines of the 10th Asean Defence Minister’s Meeting Retreat in Laos. — Bernama photo

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein has stressed that the Sulu Sea should not become the ‘new Somalia’.

He said he touched on the need to ramp up efforts to prevent the area from turning into the ‘new Somalia’ at the just concluded 10th Asean Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Retreat in Vientianne, Laos.

The Sulu Sea Trilateral Initiative which involves joint patrols by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines was among the issues brought up at the retreat.

The Sulu Sea is noted for piracy and kidnappings and hence the initiative to prevent a similar situation like Somalia where merchant ships fear to use navigation routes off that strife-torn country.

While there, Hishammuddin and his Indonesian and Phillippine counterparts  also held the 4th Trilateral Ministerial Level Meeting on the initiative.

“The discussions focused heavily on operationalising joint exercises, coordinated maritime patrols and joint air patrols that are soon to be initiated by the three nations,” he said in a statement here yesterday.

Hishammuddin said he also highlighted Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak last week, and the finalising of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for ‘Hot Pursuit’ into Philippine waters.

Hishammuddin said that at the ADMM Retreat, he also brought up the Daesh issue, which remains as Asean’s main and most current threat, and elaborated on how efforts against the terrorist group in Mosul, Aleppo and Raqa was a mixed blessing.

“On one hand depriving the group of its territory is crucial to damaging its brand but this increases the likelihood that other regions including Southeast Asia may become either a new home for recruits or an alternative target for attacks,” he said.

He added that he also stated that this was not a new phenomenon as Jemaah Islamiyah, Southeast Asia’s offshoot of Al-Qaeda, was formed in the early 2000s with the help of returnees from the Afghanistan conflict.

On the Asean-Japan Defence Ministers Informal Meeting, Hishammuddin said  he concurred with Japan’s Defence Minister Tomomi Inada on how the world was a very different place now and threats to security had changed dramatically.

“Threats of terrorism are increasingly decentralised, difficult to track and even more more difficult to prevent,” he said, adding that he called upon Japan to further explore their engagement with Asean specifically on Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).

On PKO, he had highlighted Japan’s significant contributions to the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre, specifically for the ‘Capacity Building Support for Malaysia’s Role in Multi-Dimensional Peacekeeping Training’.

He said that he hoped that the two items be further developed and discussed to be considered for the ‘Concept Paper for Asean-Japan Defence Cooperation’.

Hishammuddin said on the sidelines of both meetings, all 10 Asean Defence Ministers paid a courtesy call on Laos President Bounnhang Vorachith, and also witnessed a demonstration of the Direct Communications Link (DCL) between the 10 Asean Defence Ministers.

This is a proposal that was initially broached by the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and was subsequently taken up under the framework of the ADMM.

“The purpose of the DCL is to provide a secure means by which any two Asean Defence Ministers may communicate with each other to arrive at mutual decisions in handling crises – especially those in the maritime realm – to defuse misunderstandings, prevent escalation and promote rapid response,” Hishammuddin said.

Hishammuddin added that he also had a very productive bilateral meeting with the Union Defence Minister of Myanmar, Lt Gen Sein Win and that the discussions mainly focused on the situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine state and the Rohingya people. — Bernama

http://www.theborneopost.com/2016/11/18/sulu-sea-must-not-become-new-somalia-hishammuddin/

Skipper of visiting US warship traces roots to Filipino parents

From Malaya Business Insight (Nov 18): Skipper of visiting US warship traces roots to Filipino parents

A UNITED States warship docked at the former American naval base in Subic Bay in Zambales on Wednesday for a port call, the third US ship to pay such visit during the administration of President Duterte.

The ship and the Marines onboard are part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, which provides US military leaders and coalition partners a flexible force that can rapidly respond to contingencies and crisis.

“Several Filipino-American sailors and Marines will also spend time with their families and experience the local culture while learning about their own heritage,” the US embassy said.

The ship’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Gervy Alota, said his parents were born in the Philippines.

The embassy said USS Comstock and other ships of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a routine patrol in the US 7th Fleet area of operations.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/skipper-visiting-us-warship-traces-roots-filipino-parents

MILF: Editorial -- Marcos’ burial

Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 16): Editorial -- Marcos’ burial

Even in death former dictator-strongman Ferdinand Marcos continues to torment everybody. How much more if he were alive today. But he is already dead and whatever we say he does not hear nor see.  He now belongs to the next world. The punishment for the sins he had committed cannot be physically applied to him. The children who were minor then like   Bongbong, Imee, Irene, and Aimee cannot assume the sins of the father. Surely, Imelda Marcos, the wife and partner in the so-called “Conjugal Dictatorship”, can partake of the excesses of Martial Law.

Of course, we understand and sympathize with the feelings of those whom Marcos’ had wronged. They numbered by thousands upon thousands. We too suffered during Martial Law. Moro victims also numbered by thousands especially families of those massacred by government security forces.

They and we will never forget them. Time, contrary to what has been believed, will not heal the deep wounds incurred in the process. If justice cannot be given now, the waiting is worth it. Surely the victims will persevere --- and in the end, justice, in whatever way or form, will be served.

The controversy continues to divide the nation. This is a fact. It now turns even for the worse. The divide is so steep that instead of just an ethical, civil, and political issue initially, it now becomes legal. The Supreme Court (SC) is dragged into the controversy, and seemingly it cannot get out.

Those opposing for Marcos’ burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) are still fighting it tooth and nail, even after the SC, voting 9-5 in favour, had already given the legal signal to bury him there. Those pushing for his burial there, especially members of his family, are tormented as well.  Their legal victory is not only proved shaky if not hollow but at times overwhelmed by the shrieks of the protesters.

Amidst these rumblings, the MILF is not taking a position whether in favour or against the SC’s decision. The decision did not and will never change the past. The excesses of Marcos, the plunder of the national coffer, the killing of thousands of people, and the massive destructions are all recorded in stone. They will never fade away. They will always remain in the conscious and subconscious minds of the people. 

To us, burying or not burying him there is not an issue. Being buried there is not the ultimate test of heroism. If a dog can be buried there, why make it difficult for other people to be buried there. After all, many of those buried there are anonymous.

However, if we were the Marcoses, we wouldn’t force the issue. It is only prolonging their agony. Better for them to bury him elsewhere where he is welcomed, in Ilocos Norte preferably.  Heeding this unsolicited advice might give them peace or at least a temporary respite. It would also give them an assurance that the grave would not be vandalized? If that happens, that is another dishonourable thing.  Otherwise, they will have to post guards all the time at the grave site. However, we don’t know whether that is legally possible. If he were Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, then there is no problem at all. Up to now guards are provided 24 hours in his shrine at the Luneta Park, all expenses paid (by government).

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/25-january-16-23/967-marcos-burial

CPP: Castigate Duterte for dangling writ suspension and PC revival

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 17): Castigate Duterte for dangling writ suspension and PC revival

Communist Party of the Philippines

November 16, 2016

The Filipino people must not allow the Duterte regime to get away with dangling the possibility of suspending the writ of habeas corpus and for pushing for the revival of the Philippine Constabulary which will place the police force under the command of the military and the commander-in-chief.

He frivolously dangles the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus and paints it as a necessary measure in his war against drugs. He insists on reviving the PC on brainless reasoning.

Hyperbole or not, Duterte must be severely castigated for putting forward the twin proposals which seek to justify the possibility of removing restraints on his power and allowing him to rule as an absolute.

Limited or not, a suspension of the writ of habeas corpus is an affront to fundamental human rights which are bound to be abused by the police and military.

It strongly appears like Duterte is merely destigmatizing such measures in order to make these acceptable to the people. He makes himself look like a buffoon to trivialize such hallmarks of Marcos’ martial law dictatorship.

The Filipino people must not allow themselves to be bamboozled by the Duterte regime. They must remain vigilant to the possibilities of Duterte’s sharp turn to the Right, which is essentially what would happen if indeed Duterte carries out any of these measures.

Aware of their history, the Filipino people will not remain mute over threats against their democratic rights. Duterte must be cautioned against making the miscalculation that he can get away with measures of reviving a Marcos-style rule.

https://www.cpp.ph/castigate-duterte-dangling-writ-suspension-pc-revival/

Identity of extortionists baffle authorities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 17): Identity of extortionists baffle authorities

An officer of the 10th Infantry Division revealed investigation is still going on regarding the identity of the perpetrators behind the burning of a Yellow Bus unit in Tupi, South Cotabato.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division said the management of the Yellow Bus Line declined to confirmed whether they received an extortion letter from anyone regarding the burning of the bus.

He said the Yellow Bus Line denied that they received an extortion letter prior to the burning of the unit.

“In this incident, the perpetrators were armed with pistols.  In other similar incidents of extortion in Matana-ao, Davao del Sur, Alabel, Sarangani Province, and in General Santos City, the perpetrators were heavily armed,” Batchar said.

He said the Philippine Army has coordinated with the police in putting up random checkpoints in the area with the latest bus burning which occurred 4.5 kilometers from the headquarters of the 27th IB.
Batchar also urged owners of public transport to cooperate in the investigation.

Armed men torched before dawn Sunday, November 13,  a bus of Yellow Bus Company in a remote village of Tupi, South Cotabato.  

Supt. Romeo Galgo, speaking for police in Central Mindanao region, said the burning of Yellow Bus unit (Body number 77 and temporary plate number 1301-51080) transpired at about 4:20 a.m. in Barangay Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato, about 50 kilometers east of Koronadal.  

Citing report from Tupi Municipal Police Office, Galgo said five men boarded the Gen. Santos City-bound bus along the national highway in a bus stop in Crossing Polonuling.  

They directed the driver to turn left toward an open field of pineapple plantation. After about 100 meters away from the national highway, more armed rebels were seen waiting.  

Then the gunmen ordered the passengers, including the driver, to alight.  Other armed men poured gasoline inside and around the air condition bus with body number 77.  

Then they set on fire the unit and fled deep into the forest of Mt. Matutum.   The passengers were not harmed.  

Responding police and elements of the 27th Infantry Battalion failed to catch up with the suspects who fled toward Mt. Matutum.  Pursuit operations continue.  

Police eyed extortion as the motive of the burning of YBL unit, one of the many similar instances the past years.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381479284732/identity-of-extortionists-baffle-authorities

4ID handovers newly acquired IT equipment to line units, offices

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 17): 4ID handovers newly acquired IT equipment to line units, offices

The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army held a ceremonial handover of the newly acquired Information Technology equipment to its line units and offices at 4ID Grandstand, Nov. 16.

In a simple ceremony, Major General Benjamin R Madrigal Jr., 4ID commander, presided the event. It was witnessed by the officers and men including civilian employees of this command.

A total of 31 desktop computer set and nine laptop worth of P1,138,418.32 are set to be distributed to the division’s subordinate units and offices in the two regions—CARAGA and Region 10).

“The 4ID is so blessed for we have benefited from the government’s “Medium-Term Information and Communications Technology Harmonization Initiative” Program (MITHI),” said MGen Madrigal.

MITHI is an e-government and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) support initiative that aims to harmonize ICT-related resources, programs and projects in all agencies and on all levels of the bureaucracy,”

With this, all brigades and battalions and selected offices at the division headquarters will have added computers for them to work more efficiently and effectively, Madrigal added.

“I consider that technology provides important support and remarkable advantages to accomplish our daily jobs, but traditional values like leadership, creativity, and decision-making skills, remain with us,” said Madrigal. (4ID/PA)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461479373158/4id-handovers-newly-acquired-it-equipment-to-line-units-offices

1st Infantry Division fetes Zamboanga Sibugay Mayors’ League

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 16): 1st Infantry Division fetes Zamboanga Sibugay Mayors’ League

A testimonial parade and review in honor of the Mayors League of Zamboanga Sibugay was held yesterday at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an, home to the army’s premier division, the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID).

As the local chief executives were trooping the line with MGen Gerardo F. Barrientos Jr., 1ID commander, their role as leaders were cited. For one, the mayor is an important community leader promoting positive relationships and good governance and the spokesperson on economic issues, or when the community is under stress such as disaster management and other crisis.

 “This is an expression of our gratitude to their untiring support in our mission accomplishment as well as for their strong cooperation as stakeholders in achieving a peaceful and progressive Zamboanga  Sibugay,” Col. Jacinto R. Bareng, chief of staff, said in his welcome message.

“We have attained a significant mark in our vision for Zamboanga Sibugay when it was declared conflict-manageable and development-ready province  on 24 November 2014. It then enhanced the relationship between the local government unit, Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in putting to an end the various threats present in the community,” Bareng emphasized.

He added that it also strengthened and capacitated the local PNP to take primary responsibility in terms of peace, security and public safety. As an offshoot, the level of insurgency in the province has decreased through the years.

Zamboanga Sibugay Mayors League President Mayor Anamel C. Olegario of Ipil acknowledged and thanked MGen Barrientos, Col. Nixon M. Fortes, commander of the 102nd Infantry “IGSOON” Brigade, and the Tabak troopers for the honor given to them.

“On behalf of the Mayors League, I  thank you for this honor. This is the first time and the only time  that we were given such recognition. Tumitindig ang mga balahibo ko (I was having goosebumps) while we were trooping the line. Nakakataba ng puso ang ginawa ninyo sa amin,” (What you did was so heartwarming) Mayor Olegario said filled with emotion.

“We salute the professional men and women who represent our first line of insurance. Mag unsa nalang mi ug wala mo? (What would we do without you?) All of us mayors know that with the army behind us, we could achieve lasting peace and security in Zamboanga Sibugay,” Mayor Olegario said positively.

Highlighting the activity was the distribution of plaques and certificates to the local chief executives for the assistance and support through good governance which greatly attributed to the success of the command’s internal peace and security operations in the spirit of Bayanihan.

Barrientos lauded the remarkable achievements of the LCEs and the strong partnership with the army. “I know that you are facing many challenges as LCEs, from political, social to economic struggle,  to make your municipality a better place to live,” the commanding general said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1361479274235/1st-infantry-division-fetes-zamboanga-sibugay-mayors-league

Indigenous scholars, rebel returnees in Pampanga get cash assistance

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Indigenous scholars, rebel returnees in Pampanga get cash assistance

The provincial government of Pampanga, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), hss provided cash assistance to 59 indigenous scholars and 39 rebel returnees in this province.

Acting Governor Dennis Pineda on Thursday said the indigenous scholars are from the towns of Floridablanca and Porac, and Mabalacat City.

Pineda said that at least 10 indigenous scholars received PHP10,000 each as assistance for their board and lodging expenses while the remaining recipients received PHP5,000 as educational assistance.

He also said that some PHP390,000 was given to the rebel returnees from the town of Sta. Ana.

The acting governor said rebel returnees could use the cash grants to start a small business with their families to augment their livelihood especially that they are now leading a new life.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940965

Army tracking down suspects in Davao bombing

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): Army tracking down suspects in Davao bombing

Military authorities here are hunting down 16 more accomplices of eight detained suspects in the September Davao City night market bombing that left 15 dead, officials said Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the Army continues to help the police in tracking down the whereabouts of other suspects in the September 2 bombing that also injured 70 others.

Seven of the eight suspects were already arrested in separate operations in Cotabato City and Maguindanao which also led to the recovery of bomb making materials.

Jericho de Roma, the eight suspect, voluntarily surrendered over the weekend to the military and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) after government forces raided his home in Cotabato City.

De Roma was tagged by the suspects earlier arrested as among the accomplices from planning to execution of the terror attack.

Galvez said Roma has provided vital information of the group's activities prior to the bombing in Davao. They belonged to Dawlah Islamiya, a local counterpart of Maute terror group based in Lanao del Sur.

Galvez lauded the efforts of Cotabato City local officials who provided information to the military which carried out the arrests.

Galvez refused to provide further details on other suspects who remained at large and could be planning similar attacks to retaliate the arrest of their companions.

On October 6, bombing suspects TJ Macabalang, Wendell Facturan and Musali Mustapha were arrested in Cotabato City.

Follow-up operations led to the arrest of four others identified as Mohammad Chenikandiyil, Jackson Usi, Zack Lopez and Ansan Mamasapano on October 29.

They were collared separately in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao and in Cotabato City. Improvised explosive devices, similar to the one used in Davao bombing and other areas in Mindanao, were seized from them.

The four were reportedly planning to carry out bombings while President Duterte was in the city on October 29.

The President visited the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in Cotabato City to launch various socio-economic projects intended for underdeveloped areas in Mindanao.

An Army intelligence officer said the 16 other suspects are identified with the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) based mainly in Maguindanao.

These suspects were trained by the slain Malaysian terrorist and bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir who was killed during police operations in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in January 2015.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940502

Abu Sayyaf member falls in Zamboanga del Norte town

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): Abu Sayyaf member falls in Zamboanga del Norte town

Police authorities have arrested a suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in a remote area of Zamboanga del Norte, a top police official announced Wednesday.

Sr. Supt. Edwin Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police director, identified the arrested ASG member as Abdul Nasser Julpai, 32, of Barangay Nonoyan, Baliguian municipality.

Wagan said the suspect was arrested around 8:45 p.m. Tuesday at his residence in Barangay Nonoyan, Baliguian, Zamboanga del Norte.

Wagan said Julpai was caught in possession of a hand grenade when arrested on complaint of alarm and scandal filed by his neighbors.

He said that Julpai was found to be a member of the ASG during the tactical interrogation after the later was taken to the police station for investigation.

He said the suspect was detained pending the filing of appropriate charges against him.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940513

Army repositions troops in General Santos, nearby areas after suspected NPA attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Army repositions troops in General Santos, nearby areas after suspected NPA attacks

The Philippine Army repositioned its troops in this city and parts of South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces following the series of attacks in the area in the last several days by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Col. Tyne Banas, commanding officer of the Army’s 1002nd Brigade, said Wednesday they deployed additional troops to secure critical highways and local communities with ongoing government projects.

Since weekend, armed men claiming to be members of the NPA have burned three heavy equipment and a passenger bus in three separate attacks in the area.

Two heavy equipment owned by a construction firm working on a road project in Barangay Alegria in Alabel were burned by alleged NPA rebels last Saturday.

Early on Sunday, a passenger bus unit of the Yellow Bus Line Inc. was stopped and later torched by suspected NPA rebels in Tupi town in South Cotabato.

In Purok 2 of Barangay San Jose here, around 30 armed men who claimed to be members of the NPA burned a grader owned by private firm T-Square Construction Corp. early on Tuesday.

T-Square is working on a P154-million road opening and construction project that will connect this city to the municipalities of T’boli and Surallah in South Cotabato.

Banas said they are still verifying whether the armed men who carried out the attacks were NPA rebels.

“We will follow the standard processes leading to the prosecution of these criminal elements,” he said.

The Army official assured that the perpetrators of the attacks will “answer to their crimes,” whether they are NPA rebels or members of other armed groups.

He maintained that they are sternly observing the standing ceasefire with the NPA due to the ongoing peace process.

As a result of the attack on the road project here, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Region 12 temporarily suspended its implementation due to security concerns.

Engr. Sukarno Dilangalen, DPWH-12 project engineer, said the suspension will continue until the situation is resolved.

He said project contractor T-Square Construction has started pulling out its equipment following the attack.

“We can’t do anything right now with respect to that, so the project is suspended temporarily,” he said.

Dilangalen said they have no idea as to the motive of the attack, stressing that they have not received any warning from any group prior to the incident.

For his part, Sr. Supt Maximo Layugan, city police director, said the attacks could have been carried out by extortionists and groups who were opposing suck kind of government development projects.

He said they have beefed up their deployment and security checkpoints in the area to prevent other planned attacks by the suspects.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940653

Police, Army send "peacekeepers" to separate warring MILF leaders in Maguindanao, North Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Police, Army send "peacekeepers" to separate warring MILF leaders in Maguindanao, North Cotabato

Four persons have already been killed in an on going fighting between commanders of Moro rebel groups in Maguindanao and it has already displaced civilians, police on Thursday said.

Inspector Rasul Pandulo, speaking for Maguindanao police office, said Senior Supt. Nickson Muksan, Maguindanao police chief, have sent appeals for the leaders of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to pacify its leaders locked in clan war in Maguindanao's towns of Datu Piang, Datu Salibo and nearby towns.

The conflict has affected civilian communities in Datu Piang in Maguindanao and in Midsayap, North Cotabato, reports from the social welfare department said.

Pandulo said the family feud locally known as "rido," flared up on Nov. 13 and sporadic skirmishes have been on going between the followers of Saib Abas Kuranding of the MILF based in Datu Piang and MILF commander Bitoy Edsda of Barangay Lumupog, Midsayap.

Pandulo said the conflict is far from over since lives have been lost in the conflict.
"We expect retaliation from both sides," he said.

Pandulo also said that Muksan has coordinated with the leaders of the MILF to help convince warring families to disengage.

Classes have been suspended in areas where the warring families have been occasionally trading shots.

The affected families are temporarily housed in nearby villages while social welfare office have distributed relief goods.

Meanwhile, the military and police have deployed peacekeepers in the middle of warring families to prevent the conflict from escalating to another villages.

Pandulo said the Army and the police will not intervene in the "infighting" because of the existing ceasefire agreement between the MILF and the government.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940786

Army, PNP hunt down suspect in murder of Gov. Mangudadatu's farm worker

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Army, PNP hunt down suspect in murder of Gov. Mangudadatu's farm worker

Police and military forces have launched a manhunt against two men who shot dead a farm worker of Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Toto Mangudadatu in President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat Wednesday night.

Elements of President Quirino police backed by soldiers from the 33rd Infantry Battalion have put up checkpoints along major routes and interior communities of President Quirino and in the towns of Buluan and SK Pendatun, Maguindanao where the two suspects were last seen.

Police identified the victim as Ronel Ito, 39 of Barangay Tuato, President Quirino. He was a farm worker of Mangudadatu's farm.

Ito was driving a tricycle heading for Tacurong City with his wife and children when two men riding tandem on a motorbike opened fire on him. He died on the spot while his family was unharmed but horrified.

Responding policemen and military officers found eight empty shells for cal. 45 pistol.
Mangudadatu is yet to issue statement on the incident.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940804

PNP, Army in Bicol, Calabarzon undergo post blast investigation course to cope with bomb threats

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): PNP, Army in Bicol, Calabarzon undergo post blast investigation course to cope with bomb threats

Some 57 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army and other law enforcement agencies from Bicol and the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) regions are undergoing post blast investigation course at the Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO5) headquarters here to help them handle bomb threats and bombing incidents.

Senior Inspector Ma.Luisa Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, said the course, that runs from November 14 to 25 at Camp Simeon Ola, headquarters of PRO5 in this city, is intended to enhance the capability of the military and law enforcement agencies in intelligence gathering and handling of bomb scares and incidences of explosions.

She said the participants are members of intelligence operatives, Special Warfare and Armed Tactics or SWAT, explosives ordnance division (EOD) of the Bicol and Calabarzon police, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Directorate for Intelligence, Regional Special Training Unit-5, National Bureau of Investigation-5 and EOD Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division of the Army.

Calubaquib said police and military officers who have the expertise on intelligence gathering and bombs are handling the course.

She said the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies want to address the recent bomb scare in Luzon, especially in Bicol and Calabarzon regions.

Two weeks ago, some government agencies in Albay such as the Department of Interior and Local Government regional office, malls and schools received a bomb threat through text messages.
Investigation, however, showed it was a prank.

"Because of the bombing incident in Mindanao and the recent bomb threats in Luzon from a suspected terrorist group and lawless elements, we cannot disregard the possibility of terrorist attacks,” Calubaquib added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940874

Army, PNP officials sign JLOI to sustain anti-drug, anti-crime campaign in Region 12

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Army, PNP officials sign JLOI to sustain anti-drug, anti-crime campaign in Region 12

Police and military authorities in Central Mindanao region have literally joined forces to sustain the government's campaign against criminality and illegal drugs, a police sopkesperson on Thursday said.

Supt. Romeo Galgo Jr, spokesperson for police in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA), said the partnership was formalized during the signing of Joint Letter of Instruction (JLOI) Wednesday at PRO-12 regional office in Barangay Tambler, Gen. Santos City.

The JLOI was signed by PRO-12 Regional Director Chief Supt. Cedrick Train for the PNP and Colonel Manolo Samarita, 602nd Infantry Brigade commander, representing the military.

Chief Supt. Train has administrative and operational control of all police units in the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Saranggani and the cities therein.

Colonel Samarita, who represented the 6th Infantry Division, has supervision over three Army battalions in North Cotabato. The 6th ID has jurisdiction over Army and Marine forces in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato.

Supt. Galgo said the JLOI aims to strengthen the Project "Double Barrel Alpha"against criminality and illegal drugs campaign which is now focused on High Value Targets (HVT).

The JLOI also clearly defines Army and police cooperation in the conduct of safe operation in barangay drug clearing operations, particularly in high risk villahes where there are sighted presence of rebel groups.

“It is more on execution, security and safety of operation,” Senior Supt. Leonardo Suan, PRO-12 deputy director for operations, said.

Suan stressed that a drug-free country should mean a drug-free family and a drug-free community.
Train said that the community plays huge role in this campaign.

"There is really a need for community and stakeholders huge support and coordination with the PNP to completely perform its mandate to put an end to illegal drugs and criminality in the region," Train said of the joint campaign.

The war on drugs have been gaining ground, destroying the web of cooperation and operation of illegal drug lords.

"The police are now on high morale with the President behind them at all cost," Galgo explained in previous interviews, referring to President Duterte's directive to police, during his visit last month in PRO-12 regional office, to neutralize, destroy and bring before the bar of justice personalities involved in illegal drugs.

In Region 12, at least 76 persons have been killed during legitimate police anti-drug operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=940945

Army in N. Mindanao distributes Php 1-M I.T. equipment to field units

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Army in N. Mindanao distributes Php 1-M I.T. equipment to field units

The Philippine Army here would distribute Information Technology (IT) equipment to the military’s various line offices in Northern Mindanao, an officer said Thursday.

Capt. Patrick Martinez, Army’s 4th Infantry Division (ID) spokesman, said that the IT equipment consisting of nine laptops and 31 desktop computer sets was worth Php 1,138,418.32 million.

He said that the equipment would be distributed to the 4ID’s two subordinate units in North and Northeastern Mindanao Regions.

Martinez said that the equipment forms part was part of the government’s “Medium-Term Information and Communications Technology Harmonization Initiative Program (MITHI)."

He said that the MITHI program is an e-government and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) support initiative that aims to harmonize ICT-related resources, programs and projects in all agencies and on all levels of the bureaucracy.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin R Madrigal Jr., 4ID commander, said that the new IT equipment would encourage the men in the army brigade and battalions to work more efficiently and effectively.

Madrigal, however, cautioned the men in uniform by saying that “no machine can do the work of one extraordinary man.”

Madrigal cited the former U.S. President John F Kennedy who said that “man is still the most extraordinary computer of all.”

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=941004

PA to host ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet Nov. 28- Dec. 7

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): PA to host ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet Nov. 28- Dec. 7

The Philippine Army (PA) will be hosting this year's ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM) which will take place at Camp O' Donnell, Capas in Tarlac, from November 28 to December 7.

Col. Benjamin Hao, PA spokesperson said around 600 shooters and support personnel from ASEAN's 10 member states are expected to participate in the annual shooting event.

Delegates are expected to arrive in the Philippines starting Nov. 18 as part of their efforts to familiarize themselves to the shooting conditions and terrain in the country.

ASEAN member states include Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.

"(The shooting event) is an opportunity for the PA to showcase the fulfillment of its 2016 basecamp of being at par with its ASEAN Armies' counterpart in terms of professionalism, equipment and skills," Hao said.

The AARM is an annual shooting competition started in 1991. The Malaysian Army initially hosted the shooting event.

Its objective is to develop and strengthen the relationship among member Armies, from its senior military leaders down to their foot soldiers.

At present, the AARM is divided into five competing events namely, pistols for men, pistol for ladies, carbine, rifle, and machine gun.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940479

PA to learn from other ASEAN nations how they train their soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): PA to learn from other ASEAN nations how they train their soldiers

The Philippine Army (PA) will get a clearer picture on how its neighbors train their soldiers as it will host this year's ASEAN Chief of Army Multilateral Meeting from December 4 to 8.

Army spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao in a message to the PNA Tuesday.

Other possible topics that might be discussed during the four-day meet are areas of common security concerns and closer coordination, and disaster response initiatives, he added.

It is the meeting's 17th iteration and will be held at PICC Complex in Pasay City.

The 10 members states of the ASEAN includes Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940501

Abu Sayyaf releases male captive in Jolo, Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): Abu Sayyaf releases male captive in Jolo, Sulu

Due to constant military pressure, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits released on Nov. 14 Elmer Ybañez Romoc in an undisclosed location in Jolo, Sulu province.

Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the victim, who was held captive by the bandits for more than three months, boarded the M/V Bounty Cruiser from Jolo and was picked up by his family and personnel of the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) in the Zamboanga City wharf around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Romoc and his son, Ricson, were abducted by members of the ASG led by Adore Abdulla and Jaber Susukan in Barangay Kulisap, Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay last Aug. 5.

Elmer was brought to the office of the AKG for medical attention and custodial debriefing.
His son, Ricson, is still in captivity.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940586

PHL military verifying reports that abducted Vietnamese sailors are in Basilan forest

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 16): PHL military verifying reports that abducted Vietnamese sailors are in Basilan forest

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is verifying reports that six Vietnamese sailors who were kidnapped last week, are being held in a forested stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Edgard Arevalo said in an interview Wednesday.

Arevalo declined to give further details for security reasons but emphasized that the military is checking the information.

Six Vietnamese sailors of the M/V Royal Dawn were kidnapped last Nov. 11 while their ship, which was carrying a cargo of cement for Davao City, was passing southern Basilan.

Arevalo said the AFP is coordinating with the Vietnamese embassy to facilitate the rescue of the victims.

He added the M/V Royal Dawn is still anchored off Zamboanga City, awaiting its replacement crew. Depending on the owner's decision, it can continue with its voyage or return home.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940583

Military working on identifying abductors of German national

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Military working on identifying abductors of German national

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has yet to identify the armed group that abducted 70-year-old German Jurgen Kantner and killed his female companion while they were cruising near Sabah waters early this month.

"We are still validating information on the identities of the armed group (who have kidnapped Kantner). We really have to be very careful in determining these as we don't want a growing list of kidnap victims without validated information on who's holding them," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said in Filipino.

Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) spokesperson Abu Rami claims that have Kantner in their custody.
"They can always claim but we have to rely on our own reports from the field with regard to confirmation, we do not want to be misled, we don't what their agenda is in admitting responsibility to Kantner's kidnapping. Maybe they want the AFP to stop its ongoing operations against them," he added.

Rami earlier claimed that Kantner was seized by his men while in the waters of Tanjong Luuk Pisuk, Sabah.

His female companion, identified as Sabine Mertz, was found dead with several gunshot wounds aboard Kantner's yacht spotted drifting off Laparan Island, Pangutaran, Sulu last Nov. 6.

Earlier reports claimed that Mertz, who was found naked, was allegedly raped by her killers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940778

Army's 8th ID opens month-long sportsfest

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): Army's 8th ID opens month-long sportsfest

The Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division formally opened its Inter-Color Sportsfest Activity at its grandstand at Camp Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan City last Nov. 15.

In a statement Thursday, 1st Lt. Cherry Junia, 8th Infantry Division public affairs office, said the sporting event will last until Dec. 20.

She added five teams, Green, Yellow, Red, White and Blue, will be participating in basketball, volleyball, badminton, lawn tennis, table tennis, chess and dart games.

Junia said the annual event aims to highlight camaraderie and cooperation among participating soldiers.

"Sport is a great equalizer. I want to see competitiveness in your gameplay and your willingness to win, but I also demand sportsmanship and grace at the end of each game. Win or lose, always remember the objective of why we are holding this activity, that is, to interact with our fellow Stormtroopers in a different field and enjoy each other’s company," 8th Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Raul Farnacio said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940782

U.S.- PHL cooperation leads to counternarcotics arrest at NAIA

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): U.S.- PHL cooperation leads to counternarcotics arrest at NAIA

The arrest of a Malaysian man carrying around 4.6 kilos of high-grade cocaine in his hand-carried bag Monday night at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) was the result of cooperation between the U.S. and the Philippines.

In a statement released Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Office at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines received information that a traveler aboard an incoming international flight from Togo, transiting Addis Ababa, was suspected to be carrying contraband.

The statement further said that DEA then shared this tip with the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA IADITG), a task force led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Upon arrival of the flight, the NAIA IADITG identified the Malaysian passenger, and the Philippine Bureau of Customs discovered approximately 4.6 kilograms of cocaine pellets in his luggage.
The subject was arrested.

The NAIA IADITG is a multi-agency task force led by PDEA that was established in a cooperative effort between the Philippine government and DEA.

The task force receives training, equipment, and infrastructure support from the U.S.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940853

USS Comstock arrives in Subic Bay

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): USS Comstock arrives in Subic Bay

USS Comstock (LSD 45) with embarked Marines of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit will visit Subic Bay to provide the crew and Marines an opportunity to rest and recuperate after nearly a month and a half at sea.

Subic Bay marks the second port visit for the Comstock after departing Naval Station San Diego on October 14. Several Filipino-American Sailors and Marines will also spend time with their families and experience the local culture while learning about their own heritage.

"I am very proud that my first port visit as the Commanding Officer of the Comstock was to my birthplace, Guam, and I'm even more honored that our next port visit will be to the country where my mother and father were born - the Philippines,” said Comstock Commanding Officer Cmdr. Gervy Alota.

“It will be a fantastic opportunity for my crew toenjoy and learn about the history and culture of the Philippines and to strengthen the already close ties between our two nations. I look forward to reuniting with my family and forming new friendships with the people of Subic Bay."

The Comstock and embarked 11th MEU, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, have been conducting training together for nearly a month and a half at sea. Comstock and other ships of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a routine patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the region.

The Comstock is based out of Naval Station San Diego, Calif.

The 11th MEU is based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940903

DND allocates PHP256.3-M for coast watch req'ts in northern Luzon

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 17): DND allocates PHP256.3-M for coast watch req'ts in northern Luzon

The Department of National Defense (DND) has allocated PHP256.36 million for the supply and delivery of "coast watch system requirements" needed to enhance the maritime capability in northern Luzon.

This will equip three stations and one center in the region. Money for the project will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act Trust Fund.

The project will be undertaken through alternative mode of procurement which is Limited Source Bidding having satisfied the conditions as stated in Section 49 of the Revised Rules and Regulations of RA 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act), DND Special Bids and Awards Committee chair Assistant Secretary Teodoro Cirilo Torralba III said.

Pre-selected companies for this contract include Datatrail Corp/Elbit Sys Ltd, Indra, Baybridge Service (Far East), Pronet, Elta Systems Ltd, HITT (Scan Marine, Inc), Ltd One Commerce Int'l Corp (Signalis Rep).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=940893

PH warship BRP Andres Bonifacio arrives in Hawaii

From Update.Ph (Nov 17): PH warship BRP Andres Bonifacio arrives in Hawaii

BRP Andres Bonifacio officials with Philippine Consulate representatives. FF-17 photo

BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) safely arrived in Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii on November 15, reported in the warship’s official social networking page. This completes her second voyage en route to the Philippines.

Her first voyage was from Alameda, California to San Diego, California – November 1 to November 5.

FF-17 is expected to arrive in the country second week of December. Her third and final stop-over is Guam.

She was acquired through US Excess Defense Article Program.

BRP Andres Bonifacio is the sister ship of BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16), all former Hamilton-class cutters acquired through the US Excess Defense Article Program in 2011 and 2013, respectively.

http://www.update.ph/2016/11/ph-warship-brp-andres-bonifacio-arrives-in-hawaii/11054

LOOK: PH frigate welcomed in Pearl Harbor

From Update Ph. LOOK: PH frigate welcomed in Pearl Harbor 

US Navy photo

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) commanding officer Captain Stanley Keeve Jr. welcomed Philippine Navy frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17) and its crew November 15 during a regularly scheduled port visit en route to the Philippines, the United States Navy said.

BRP Andres Bonifacio and its crew will be to hosting a reception onboard and interact with their host ship USS Halsey (DDG-97).

“Bonifacio was transferred to the Philippine navy at a ceremony in Alameda, California, July 21, as part of an agreement to transfer Hamilton-class 378-foot high endurance cutters to the Philippines through the Office of International Acquisition’s Excess Defense Articles program,” the US Navy said.

“The ship and crew just completed a four month upgrade and training period with the U.S. Coast Guard in Alameda that included one-on-one training with Coast Guard sailors and formal training on the ship’s systems,” US Navy added.

http://www.update.ph/2016/11/ph-frigate-welcomed-in-pearl-harbor/11062