From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Shared aspirations with Filipino people is AFP's goal in celebrating 81st founding anniversary
Sharing aspiration with the Filipino is the goal of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)'s as it celebrates its 81st founding anniversary Wednesday.
“The anniversary celebration has never been only about us, although we always see it fit to showcase our troops and our equipment as a show of our advancement as an institution. More than this, the ‘AFP Day’ is a celebration of our shared aspirations with the Filipino,” AFP chief-of- staff Lt.Gen. Eduardo M Año said.
“We dedicate our efforts today to the Filipino people we have sworn to serve and protect, and this we have done each year with dedication and pride, as it is a fact that only with their unyielding support that we as an institution came to where we are now,” he added.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said Wednesday's celebrations manifest the “the AFP’s gratitude to the people and its readiness to serve with pride as a partner in peace, security, and nation-building.”
Several support activities were earlier conducted leading to Wednesday's culminating event.
These include the Disaster Responders Challenge and Climate Change Summit both on Dec. 2; the National ROTC Summit on Dec. 10; and the AFP @81 Photo Contest which awarded its winners Tuesday.
The General Luna Colloquium, AFP Transformation Roadmap Governance Lecture Series, Cultural Understanding Language Proficiency for ROTC cadets, Static and Kinetic Display, and a Concert at the Mall were also conducted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949918
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Dela Rosa names 9 more PNP execs to new posts
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 20): Dela Rosa names 9 more PNP execs to new posts
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” M. Dela Rosa has designated nine more senior police officials to key positions as part of a new round of reorganization of the PNP command structure.
The new designations will fill-up vacancies in the higher echelon of the PNP Organization as a result of the upward movement of third level officials to higher posts upon the recent retirement of four Police Directors (two-star generals).
Senior police officials designated to new posts effective on Tuesday are Chief Supt. Noel G. Constantino as Acting Director of the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR), Chief Supt. Gilbert C Sosa as Acting Director of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Northern Luzon, Chief Supt. Agripino G. Javier, Jr. as Acting Regional Director of the PRO-10 (Northern Mindanao), Chief Supt. Eliseo T. Rasco as Acting Regional Director or PRO-2 (Cagayan Valley Region), Chief Supt. Reuben Theodore C. Sindac as Acting Regional Director of PRO-ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), Chief Supt. Amador V. Corpus as Acting Director of the Logistics Support Service (LSS), Chief Supt. Danilo L. Maligalig as Deputy Director for Administration of the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group), Senior Supt. Joseph C. Adnol as Deputy Regional Director for Administration of the PRO-10 and Senior Supt. Debold M. Sinas as Secretary to the Directorial Staff.
Last Dec. 15, Dela Rosa effected a major reorganization with the designation of 11 senior officials to key posts in the Command Group, Directorial Staff, Police Regional Offices (PROs) and National Support Units (NSUs).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949703
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” M. Dela Rosa has designated nine more senior police officials to key positions as part of a new round of reorganization of the PNP command structure.
The new designations will fill-up vacancies in the higher echelon of the PNP Organization as a result of the upward movement of third level officials to higher posts upon the recent retirement of four Police Directors (two-star generals).
Senior police officials designated to new posts effective on Tuesday are Chief Supt. Noel G. Constantino as Acting Director of the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR), Chief Supt. Gilbert C Sosa as Acting Director of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Northern Luzon, Chief Supt. Agripino G. Javier, Jr. as Acting Regional Director of the PRO-10 (Northern Mindanao), Chief Supt. Eliseo T. Rasco as Acting Regional Director or PRO-2 (Cagayan Valley Region), Chief Supt. Reuben Theodore C. Sindac as Acting Regional Director of PRO-ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), Chief Supt. Amador V. Corpus as Acting Director of the Logistics Support Service (LSS), Chief Supt. Danilo L. Maligalig as Deputy Director for Administration of the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group), Senior Supt. Joseph C. Adnol as Deputy Regional Director for Administration of the PRO-10 and Senior Supt. Debold M. Sinas as Secretary to the Directorial Staff.
Last Dec. 15, Dela Rosa effected a major reorganization with the designation of 11 senior officials to key posts in the Command Group, Directorial Staff, Police Regional Offices (PROs) and National Support Units (NSUs).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949703
Duterte plays Santa to PSG
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 20): Duterte plays Santa to PSG
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, Dec. 19, distributed cash gifts, bonuses and educational benefits to the members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG).
Duterte gave the members of the PSG Christmas bonus of Php 5,000, combat pay, 14th month pay, and Php 5,000 from the Office of the President.
Military and police children will be entitled to free education, according to Duterte.
“As I have promised, I will work on this year and it will be this year, na lahat ng edukasyon ng sundalo, pati pulis, mga anak, libre na. Gobyerno ang magbayad,” he said.
In his message during the command Christmas boodle fight, Duterte called on the military and police to bolster his war on illegal drugs to protect the people.
“Trabaho lang kayo. Just remain loyal to the Constitution.
Do not be loyal to me. If I have committed a grave error, you can do what you want. But preserve the presidency because it is needed by our country,” he said.
Duterte also talked about his overseas trips in the first six months of his term, articulating further that it had been necessary for him to visit the country’s neighbors because the Philippines would be hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next year.
"You know. I have been to places. But if you ask if I enjoyed it, my trips, I do not. I hate to travel. But the problem is I have to go around to get the feedbacks in advance because we are hosting the summit next year, ASEAN,” Duterte said.
“I have to get their thoughts, ‘yung mga policy na ilabas namin, so that by the time the summit is already here, alam ko kung anong ilagay ko sa agenda, kung ano ‘yung gusto ng Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam,” he added.
Meanwhile, Duterte acknowledged the SMC Foundation for sharing a gift pack and a cash gift of Php 1,000 to each member of the security group.
After his speech, President Duterte joined the PSG personnel and their families in a military style of eating, known as “Boodle Fight.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949867
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, Dec. 19, distributed cash gifts, bonuses and educational benefits to the members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG).
Duterte gave the members of the PSG Christmas bonus of Php 5,000, combat pay, 14th month pay, and Php 5,000 from the Office of the President.
Military and police children will be entitled to free education, according to Duterte.
“As I have promised, I will work on this year and it will be this year, na lahat ng edukasyon ng sundalo, pati pulis, mga anak, libre na. Gobyerno ang magbayad,” he said.
In his message during the command Christmas boodle fight, Duterte called on the military and police to bolster his war on illegal drugs to protect the people.
Duterte reiterated that the country’s military should be loyal to the Constitution at all times.
“Trabaho lang kayo. Just remain loyal to the Constitution.
Do not be loyal to me. If I have committed a grave error, you can do what you want. But preserve the presidency because it is needed by our country,” he said.
Duterte also talked about his overseas trips in the first six months of his term, articulating further that it had been necessary for him to visit the country’s neighbors because the Philippines would be hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next year.
"You know. I have been to places. But if you ask if I enjoyed it, my trips, I do not. I hate to travel. But the problem is I have to go around to get the feedbacks in advance because we are hosting the summit next year, ASEAN,” Duterte said.
“I have to get their thoughts, ‘yung mga policy na ilabas namin, so that by the time the summit is already here, alam ko kung anong ilagay ko sa agenda, kung ano ‘yung gusto ng Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam,” he added.
Meanwhile, Duterte acknowledged the SMC Foundation for sharing a gift pack and a cash gift of Php 1,000 to each member of the security group.
After his speech, President Duterte joined the PSG personnel and their families in a military style of eating, known as “Boodle Fight.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949867
Wesmincom tracking down abductors of 3 fishing boat crewmen off Celebes Sea
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Wesmincom tracking down abductors of 3 fishing boat crewmen off Celebes Sea
Joint Task Force Sulu and its naval component, Naval Task Group Sulu, are tracking down the still unidentified armed bandits who abducted three crewmen of a fishing boat in the Celebes Sea Tuesday early morning.
Major Filemon Tan, Western Mindanao Command spokesperson, in a statement Wednesday, identified the fishing boat as the F/B Ramona 2 which is owned by the Ramona Corporation and her missing crew as Reyjim Rocabo, the captain, Roy Ramos, marine diesel mechannic and Roel Liones, another crewman of the ill-fated vessel.
All three are residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga Del Sur.
Tan said last contact with the missing crewmen was at 3:00 a.m. Tuesday and it was made by sister ship F/B Melissa.
"F/B Melissa 2 proceeded to the location of her sister ship at around 5:00 a.m. and found all crew members missing. The VHF Radio/GPS was stolen while other belongings are intact," the military official added.
He added Joint Task Force Sulu has already deployed forces to conduct search and the Naval Task Group Sulu was instructed to initiate appropriate action.
Meanwhile, the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan were also alerted to conduct patrols.
Intelligence units are now determining the perpetrator behind the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949914
Joint Task Force Sulu and its naval component, Naval Task Group Sulu, are tracking down the still unidentified armed bandits who abducted three crewmen of a fishing boat in the Celebes Sea Tuesday early morning.
Major Filemon Tan, Western Mindanao Command spokesperson, in a statement Wednesday, identified the fishing boat as the F/B Ramona 2 which is owned by the Ramona Corporation and her missing crew as Reyjim Rocabo, the captain, Roy Ramos, marine diesel mechannic and Roel Liones, another crewman of the ill-fated vessel.
All three are residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga Del Sur.
Tan said last contact with the missing crewmen was at 3:00 a.m. Tuesday and it was made by sister ship F/B Melissa.
"F/B Melissa 2 proceeded to the location of her sister ship at around 5:00 a.m. and found all crew members missing. The VHF Radio/GPS was stolen while other belongings are intact," the military official added.
He added Joint Task Force Sulu has already deployed forces to conduct search and the Naval Task Group Sulu was instructed to initiate appropriate action.
Meanwhile, the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan were also alerted to conduct patrols.
Intelligence units are now determining the perpetrator behind the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949914
U.S. renews Mindanao travel warning
From Rappler (Dec 21): U.S. renews Mindanao travel warning
The travel advisory replaces the warning issued in April 2016 against southern Philippines due to continued terrorist and insurgent threats
“Separatist and terrorist groups continue to carry out attacks and kidnappings against civilians, foreigners, political leaders, and Philippine security forces in Mindanao,” the US said in its advisory.
Since January 2016, the State Department said at least 13 separate kidnappings of foreigners have been reported across Mindanao.
The US State Department cited the 13 separate kidnappings of foreigners reported across Mindanao since January 2016, and the September 2 bombing of Davao City, which prompted the declaration of a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence.
“There have been no reports of US citizens in Mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality; however, general threats to US citizens and other foreigners throughout Mindanao remain a concern,”it said.
The newly re-issued travel alert replaced the warning released in April 2016 and also covers the southern tip of Palawan, the coast of Sabah in Malaysia, Sulu, and Zamboanga City.
US government employees are also required to obtain special authorization from embassy security officials before traveling to Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156155-us-new-travel-warning-mindanao-december
The travel advisory replaces the warning issued in April 2016 against southern Philippines due to continued terrorist and insurgent threats
WARNING. The US State Department has renewed its travel warning against going to Mindanao due to continued terrorist and insurgent threats. File photo by Rappler
The US State Department on Tuesday, December 20, issued another travel advisory, warning its citizens to avoid “all non-essential travel” and exercise “extreme caution” in Mindanao due to continued terrorist and rebel threats.
Since January 2016, the State Department said at least 13 separate kidnappings of foreigners have been reported across Mindanao.
The US State Department cited the 13 separate kidnappings of foreigners reported across Mindanao since January 2016, and the September 2 bombing of Davao City, which prompted the declaration of a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence.
“There have been no reports of US citizens in Mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality; however, general threats to US citizens and other foreigners throughout Mindanao remain a concern,”it said.
The newly re-issued travel alert replaced the warning released in April 2016 and also covers the southern tip of Palawan, the coast of Sabah in Malaysia, Sulu, and Zamboanga City.
US government employees are also required to obtain special authorization from embassy security officials before traveling to Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156155-us-new-travel-warning-mindanao-december
4 fishing boat crew kidnapped off Sulu – military
From Rappler (Dec 21): 4 fishing boat crew kidnapped off Sulu – military
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu and the Naval Task Group Sulu have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations
MISSING. Four fishing boat crew are reportedly abducted on Tuesday, December 20, off Celebes Sea in Sulu.
Four fishing boat crew were reportedly abducted off Sulu on Tuesday, December 20.
Major Filemon Tan, spokesman of the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command, said the the victims were on board FB Ramona 2 when they were kidnapped in the Celebes Sea around 2:30 am.
Tan identified the 4 missing as captain Noel Besconde, marine diesel mechanic Reyjim Rocabo, and crew members Roy Ramosand Roel Liones. All are residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
The military said the abduction was reported by the boat's sister ship, FB Melissa 2 after not receiving any feedback from their companion.
“FB Melissa 2 proceeded to the location of her sister ship at around 5 am and found all crew members missing. The VHF Radio/GPS was stolen while other belongings are intact,” Tan said.
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu and the Naval Task Group Sulu have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations.
The military has also alerted the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan to conduct patrols.
The AFP has yet to confirm who is responsible for the abduction.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156153-fishing-boat-crew-abducted-celebes-sea-sulu
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu and the Naval Task Group Sulu have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations
MISSING. Four fishing boat crew are reportedly abducted on Tuesday, December 20, off Celebes Sea in Sulu.
Four fishing boat crew were reportedly abducted off Sulu on Tuesday, December 20.
Major Filemon Tan, spokesman of the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command, said the the victims were on board FB Ramona 2 when they were kidnapped in the Celebes Sea around 2:30 am.
Tan identified the 4 missing as captain Noel Besconde, marine diesel mechanic Reyjim Rocabo, and crew members Roy Ramosand Roel Liones. All are residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
The military said the abduction was reported by the boat's sister ship, FB Melissa 2 after not receiving any feedback from their companion.
“FB Melissa 2 proceeded to the location of her sister ship at around 5 am and found all crew members missing. The VHF Radio/GPS was stolen while other belongings are intact,” Tan said.
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu and the Naval Task Group Sulu have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations.
The military has also alerted the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan to conduct patrols.
The AFP has yet to confirm who is responsible for the abduction.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156153-fishing-boat-crew-abducted-celebes-sea-sulu
Returning militants to fuel plots in S-E Asia
The Straits Times (Dec 21): Returning militants to fuel plots in S-E Asia
The threat of South-east Asia turning into the next battlefield for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) looms large, with the militant group expected to cede even more territory in the Middle East to coalition forces next year.
The exodus of about 1,000 Indonesian, Malaysian, Filipino and even Singaporean fighters from places such as Iraq, Libya or Syria will up the ante in the war on terror.
"We expect the returning fighters from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and a few from Singapore who are now in Iraq and Syria will likely return to continue their violent plots at home," Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said recently.
Experts said the influence of these South-east Asian militants on their counterparts at home is already changing the way the battle is being fought by counter-terrorism agencies in this part of the world.
"What is happening now is not home-grown terrorism... (but) a global terrorist network," said Indonesian police chief Tito Karnavian, referring to the far reach of ISIS.
Indonesia's crack anti-terror unit, Detachment 88 (Densus 88), has uncovered a string of new local terror cells after Jakarta was struck by an ISIS-inspired attack in January.
Most, if not all, of these cells had received money and learnt to make bombs and mount attacks from Indonesian ISIS fighters in Syria, who send instructions home using Telegram, a smartphone messaging app, said General Tito.
But a new trend emerged earlier this month, when Densus 88 busted a group plotting to bomb the presidential palace in Jakarta.
According to Gen Tito, the suspects had not only acquired funding from ISIS fighters in Syria, but also received orders to set up smaller and harder-to- detect cells, as well as recruit Indonesian women as suicide bombers.
"Until now, security officials have focused only on prospective male attackers, and that is why Bahrun Naim's group switched to something new by using a woman as a suicide bomber," said University of Indonesia terrorism expert Ridwan Habib, referring to an Indonesian militant in the Middle East fighting alongside ISIS.
Indonesia and Malaysia have recorded their first terror attacks this year, claimed by ISIS, while Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said the group has taken root in the country's southern island group of Mindanao. All three countries have also experienced a surge in domestic terrorist activities in the past year.
However, it is not just the new tactics that are raising concerns, but also how ISIS has been expanding its reach in South-east Asia by appointing local proxy leaders. Experts said the region's long history of militancy and rising number of extremist groups adopting ISIS ideology make South-east Asia attractive to the Sunni extremists.
ISIS has been priming the southern Philippines, where the Abu Sayyaf militant group operates, as its wilayah, or state. Pirates linked to Abu Sayyaf have kidnapped dozens of Indonesian and Malaysian sailors and made millions of dollars in ransom.
Indonesian armed forces chief Gatot Nurmantyo said the recent rise in such abductions is a strong indication that ISIS is raising funds to build a base in Mindanao.
Perhaps the biggest fear for security agencies next year is the rise of a new generation of local militant leaders who have declared their allegiance to ISIS.
Indonesia has Bahrun and Bahrumsyah - the latter appointed by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to lead a battalion of foreign fighters from South-east Asia who joined the group in the Middle East.
Malaysian Muhammad Wanndy Mohamed Jedi is now the terrorist most wanted by the country's Special Branch for his hand in a grenade attack. Malaysian police have also nabbed 115 terror suspects this year - up from just four in 2013.
The Philippines has had to contend with Isnilon Hapilon, a former Abu Sayyaf commander who was hand-picked by al-Baghdadi to be emir, or leader, of militant groups in South-east Asia loyal to ISIS. A recent Counter Terrorist Trends and Analysis report said unlike previous South-east Asian jihadist leaders, these new militants have operated from overseas with impunity, issuing instructions and directives, transferring funds and facilitating travel for jihadists.
Indeed, Gen Tito summed it up best: "I think while ISIS exists, we should stop dreaming of an Indonesia without terrorism."
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/returning-militants-to-fuel-plots-in-s-e-asia
The threat of South-east Asia turning into the next battlefield for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) looms large, with the militant group expected to cede even more territory in the Middle East to coalition forces next year.
The exodus of about 1,000 Indonesian, Malaysian, Filipino and even Singaporean fighters from places such as Iraq, Libya or Syria will up the ante in the war on terror.
"We expect the returning fighters from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and a few from Singapore who are now in Iraq and Syria will likely return to continue their violent plots at home," Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said recently.
"What is happening now is not home-grown terrorism... (but) a global terrorist network," said Indonesian police chief Tito Karnavian, referring to the far reach of ISIS.
Most, if not all, of these cells had received money and learnt to make bombs and mount attacks from Indonesian ISIS fighters in Syria, who send instructions home using Telegram, a smartphone messaging app, said General Tito.
But a new trend emerged earlier this month, when Densus 88 busted a group plotting to bomb the presidential palace in Jakarta.
According to Gen Tito, the suspects had not only acquired funding from ISIS fighters in Syria, but also received orders to set up smaller and harder-to- detect cells, as well as recruit Indonesian women as suicide bombers.
"Until now, security officials have focused only on prospective male attackers, and that is why Bahrun Naim's group switched to something new by using a woman as a suicide bomber," said University of Indonesia terrorism expert Ridwan Habib, referring to an Indonesian militant in the Middle East fighting alongside ISIS.
Indonesia and Malaysia have recorded their first terror attacks this year, claimed by ISIS, while Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said the group has taken root in the country's southern island group of Mindanao. All three countries have also experienced a surge in domestic terrorist activities in the past year.
However, it is not just the new tactics that are raising concerns, but also how ISIS has been expanding its reach in South-east Asia by appointing local proxy leaders. Experts said the region's long history of militancy and rising number of extremist groups adopting ISIS ideology make South-east Asia attractive to the Sunni extremists.
ISIS has been priming the southern Philippines, where the Abu Sayyaf militant group operates, as its wilayah, or state. Pirates linked to Abu Sayyaf have kidnapped dozens of Indonesian and Malaysian sailors and made millions of dollars in ransom.
Indonesian armed forces chief Gatot Nurmantyo said the recent rise in such abductions is a strong indication that ISIS is raising funds to build a base in Mindanao.
Perhaps the biggest fear for security agencies next year is the rise of a new generation of local militant leaders who have declared their allegiance to ISIS.
Indonesia has Bahrun and Bahrumsyah - the latter appointed by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to lead a battalion of foreign fighters from South-east Asia who joined the group in the Middle East.
Malaysian Muhammad Wanndy Mohamed Jedi is now the terrorist most wanted by the country's Special Branch for his hand in a grenade attack. Malaysian police have also nabbed 115 terror suspects this year - up from just four in 2013.
The Philippines has had to contend with Isnilon Hapilon, a former Abu Sayyaf commander who was hand-picked by al-Baghdadi to be emir, or leader, of militant groups in South-east Asia loyal to ISIS. A recent Counter Terrorist Trends and Analysis report said unlike previous South-east Asian jihadist leaders, these new militants have operated from overseas with impunity, issuing instructions and directives, transferring funds and facilitating travel for jihadists.
Indeed, Gen Tito summed it up best: "I think while ISIS exists, we should stop dreaming of an Indonesia without terrorism."
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/returning-militants-to-fuel-plots-in-s-e-asia
4 fishing boat crew abducted off Sulu
From GMA News (Dec 21): 4 fishing boat crew abducted off Sulu
Four crew members of a fishing boat were abducted off Sulu, early Tuesday. Maj. Filemon Tan, spokesman of the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command, identified the abducted crew members as Noel Besconde, Reyjim Rocabo, Roy Ramos and Roel Liones, residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
Tan said the four victims were on board FB Ramona 2 when they were abducted in Celebes Sea around 2:30 a.m.
He said the abduction was reported by the boat's sister ship, FB Melissa 2.
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu have been deployed around docking sites in Sulu to locate the victims.
Tan added that the Naval Task Group Sulu has also been ordered to conduct search and rescue operations.
The military has yet to determine if the crew's abductors are members of the Abu Sayyaf Group.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/593217/news/regions/4-fishing-boat-crew-abducted-off-sulu
Four crew members of a fishing boat were abducted off Sulu, early Tuesday. Maj. Filemon Tan, spokesman of the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command, identified the abducted crew members as Noel Besconde, Reyjim Rocabo, Roy Ramos and Roel Liones, residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
Tan said the four victims were on board FB Ramona 2 when they were abducted in Celebes Sea around 2:30 a.m.
He said the abduction was reported by the boat's sister ship, FB Melissa 2.
Members of the military's Joint Task Force Sulu have been deployed around docking sites in Sulu to locate the victims.
Tan added that the Naval Task Group Sulu has also been ordered to conduct search and rescue operations.
The military has yet to determine if the crew's abductors are members of the Abu Sayyaf Group.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/593217/news/regions/4-fishing-boat-crew-abducted-off-sulu
Joma Sison: Reds to observe holiday ‘unilateral’ ceasefire
From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 20): Joma Sison: Reds to observe holiday ‘unilateral’ ceasefire
Communist Party chief says bilateral ceasefire to be discussed in resumption of peace talks
Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison said Tuesday, December 20 that the unilateral ceasefire declarations of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) will remain in effect during the holiday season.
The Netherlands-based Sison, who is also NDFP chief political consultant, said this in a Facebook post where he also mentioned his phone conversation with President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday.
A media advisory released by Malacañang on December 19 indicated that the president was set to make a phone call to Sison at 9:00 p.m.
The palace has yet to release details on Duterte’s phone call to the NDFP chief political consultant.
But Sison, in his Facebook post, wrote: “I had a friendly and productive phone conversation with President Duterte about advancing the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations at around 7:00 p.m. last night Utrecht time.”
“The unilateral ceasefire declarations of the GRP and NDFP will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays,” he further said without specifying dates.
“Bilateral ceasefire agreement and the amnesty and release of the political prisoners listed by the NDFP can be discussed and agreed upon before, during and even after the third round of formal talks in Rome from January 18 to 24,” he added.
Duterte was previously sanguine about the truce with the communists—saying that the government negotiating team “will not really abandon the things that we all crave for our country”— even as he rejected the demand to free 130 political prisoners unless the government and the rebels agree to a joint ceasefire.
“I’m sorry but I have already conceded so much on the side of the government,” said the president.
Duterte, however, agreed to release the sickly, elderly and women political prisoners.
On Saturday, he revealed his wish for Christmas is for gun battles with the communist and Muslim rebels and even the Abu Sayyaf Group to take a back seat to allow peace to reign during the holiday season.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/20/joma-sison-reds-to-observe-holiday-unilateral-ceasefire/
Communist Party chief says bilateral ceasefire to be discussed in resumption of peace talks
Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison said Tuesday, December 20 that the unilateral ceasefire declarations of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) will remain in effect during the holiday season.
The Netherlands-based Sison, who is also NDFP chief political consultant, said this in a Facebook post where he also mentioned his phone conversation with President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday.
Determination is etched on the face of this New People’s Army (NPA) combatant in a show of force by the communist rebels during a news conference held at a guerilla encampment in the Sierra Madre mountains, November 23. (AP | Manila Bulletin)
The palace has yet to release details on Duterte’s phone call to the NDFP chief political consultant.
But Sison, in his Facebook post, wrote: “I had a friendly and productive phone conversation with President Duterte about advancing the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations at around 7:00 p.m. last night Utrecht time.”
“The unilateral ceasefire declarations of the GRP and NDFP will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays,” he further said without specifying dates.
“Bilateral ceasefire agreement and the amnesty and release of the political prisoners listed by the NDFP can be discussed and agreed upon before, during and even after the third round of formal talks in Rome from January 18 to 24,” he added.
Duterte was previously sanguine about the truce with the communists—saying that the government negotiating team “will not really abandon the things that we all crave for our country”— even as he rejected the demand to free 130 political prisoners unless the government and the rebels agree to a joint ceasefire.
“I’m sorry but I have already conceded so much on the side of the government,” said the president.
Duterte, however, agreed to release the sickly, elderly and women political prisoners.
On Saturday, he revealed his wish for Christmas is for gun battles with the communist and Muslim rebels and even the Abu Sayyaf Group to take a back seat to allow peace to reign during the holiday season.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/20/joma-sison-reds-to-observe-holiday-unilateral-ceasefire/
ARMM seizes P1.4M logs, shuts down illegal sawmills in Lanao del Sur
From InterAksyon (Dec 18): ARMM seizes P1.4M logs, shuts down illegal sawmills in Lanao del Sur
ARMM Environment Secretary Kahal Kedtag (left) inspects premium logs seized from one of three illegal sawmills in Maguing, Lanao del Sur as MNLF integrees who supported the operation look on. (photo by McMorrie Bidara, InterAksyon.com)
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao seized some 28,730 board feet of premium logs, worth at least P1.4 million, and shut down three illegal sawmills in Lanao del Sur on Saturday.
The operation was led by ARMM Environment Secretary Kahal Kedtag after investigations confirmed widespread logging within the watershed in three barangays of Maguing town.
However, Kedtag clarified that only two of the sawmills could be said to engage in illegal logging. The third, he said, "we could not yet classify (as being engaged in) illegal logging because as we can see, they just appear to be clearing the area … converting the forest land into agricultural land.”
Nevertheless, he stressed, this remained “prohibited since this is a watershed area."
The logs were turned over to the Anti-Illegal Logging Task Group of Lanao del Sur.
The operation was supported by integrees who used to be with the Moro National Liberation Front.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135373/arrm-seizes-p1-4m-logs-shuts-down-illegal-sawmills-in-lanao-del-sur
ARMM Environment Secretary Kahal Kedtag (left) inspects premium logs seized from one of three illegal sawmills in Maguing, Lanao del Sur as MNLF integrees who supported the operation look on. (photo by McMorrie Bidara, InterAksyon.com)
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao seized some 28,730 board feet of premium logs, worth at least P1.4 million, and shut down three illegal sawmills in Lanao del Sur on Saturday.
The operation was led by ARMM Environment Secretary Kahal Kedtag after investigations confirmed widespread logging within the watershed in three barangays of Maguing town.
However, Kedtag clarified that only two of the sawmills could be said to engage in illegal logging. The third, he said, "we could not yet classify (as being engaged in) illegal logging because as we can see, they just appear to be clearing the area … converting the forest land into agricultural land.”
Nevertheless, he stressed, this remained “prohibited since this is a watershed area."
The logs were turned over to the Anti-Illegal Logging Task Group of Lanao del Sur.
The operation was supported by integrees who used to be with the Moro National Liberation Front.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135373/arrm-seizes-p1-4m-logs-shuts-down-illegal-sawmills-in-lanao-del-sur
Oplan Bayanihan ends as Duterte orders AFP to support NDF talks
From Rappler (Dec 20): Oplan Bayanihan ends as Duterte orders AFP to support NDF talks
(UPDATED) The communist rebels have long called for the abolition of Oplan Bayanihan, which they claim is behind alleged human rights abuses committed by the military in the countryside
SUPPORT TALKS WITH LEFT. President Rodrigo Duterte asks the military to support his peace initiatives with communist rebels. Rappler photo
The Philippine military's counter-insurgency campaign "Oplan Bayanihan" ends this month, paving the way for a new campaign plan that will take into account the ongoing peace talks with communist rebels.
It's a policy decision that will please the communist guerrillas, who have long been campaigning against Bayanihan.
"We will be implementing the new campaign plan starting January 2017. There will be no formal launching but the CSAFP (chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Eduardo Año) is expected to announce it in his anniversary speech," said AFP Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Edgard Arevalo on Sunday, December 18.
The AFP will celebrate its 81st anniversary on Wednesday, December 21. President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to lead the celebration in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
A source privy to the preparation of the new campaign plan said it will reflect Duterte's orders to the military to support peace talks with the communist rebels.
The Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan or "Oplan Bayanihan" is a public document detailing the military strategy under the previous Aquino administration to address security threats.
It's an offshoot of Oplan Bantay Laya, the counter-insurgency campaign under the Arroyo administration, that was blamed for the extrajudicial killings of political activitists at the time.
Oplan Bayanihan supports peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front while seeking to defeat the Abu Sayyaf Group and the then dominant foreign terrorist group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), following a policy of non-negotiation.
In the case of the New People's Army (NPA), the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the military sought to diminish the armed group until it becomes "irrelevant," and the rebels are forced to abandon the armed struggle and go back to the negotiating table.
The military has credited Oplan Bayanihan for "clearing" several areas where the NPA was present. The military claims the rebels are now down to 2,000 armed combatants.
The NPA and leftist organizations, on the other hand, blame Oplan Bayanihan for alleged human rights abuses committed by the military in the countryside. They had long called for its abolition, stepping up their campaign against it after the peace talks resumed.
Talks between the communist rebels and the Duterte administration formally resumed in August. It paved the way for unprecedented unilateral ceasefires between the military and the NPA, which have been holding for 4 months now although both camps have reported complaints. The government also committed amnesty for political prisoners.
If issues are resolved, a more stable bilateral ceasefire will be signed before the 3rd round of talks in January. (READ: PH, NDF closer to signing joint ceasefire deal)
The CPP and the NPA are responsible for the longest running communist insurgency in Asia. The CPP is celebrating its 48th anniversary on December 26 through "peace rallies" nationwide.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/155925-oplan-bayanihan-ends
(UPDATED) The communist rebels have long called for the abolition of Oplan Bayanihan, which they claim is behind alleged human rights abuses committed by the military in the countryside
SUPPORT TALKS WITH LEFT. President Rodrigo Duterte asks the military to support his peace initiatives with communist rebels. Rappler photo
The Philippine military's counter-insurgency campaign "Oplan Bayanihan" ends this month, paving the way for a new campaign plan that will take into account the ongoing peace talks with communist rebels.
It's a policy decision that will please the communist guerrillas, who have long been campaigning against Bayanihan.
"We will be implementing the new campaign plan starting January 2017. There will be no formal launching but the CSAFP (chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Eduardo Año) is expected to announce it in his anniversary speech," said AFP Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Edgard Arevalo on Sunday, December 18.
The AFP will celebrate its 81st anniversary on Wednesday, December 21. President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to lead the celebration in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
A source privy to the preparation of the new campaign plan said it will reflect Duterte's orders to the military to support peace talks with the communist rebels.
The Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan or "Oplan Bayanihan" is a public document detailing the military strategy under the previous Aquino administration to address security threats.
It's an offshoot of Oplan Bantay Laya, the counter-insurgency campaign under the Arroyo administration, that was blamed for the extrajudicial killings of political activitists at the time.
Oplan Bayanihan supports peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front while seeking to defeat the Abu Sayyaf Group and the then dominant foreign terrorist group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), following a policy of non-negotiation.
In the case of the New People's Army (NPA), the armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the military sought to diminish the armed group until it becomes "irrelevant," and the rebels are forced to abandon the armed struggle and go back to the negotiating table.
The military has credited Oplan Bayanihan for "clearing" several areas where the NPA was present. The military claims the rebels are now down to 2,000 armed combatants.
The NPA and leftist organizations, on the other hand, blame Oplan Bayanihan for alleged human rights abuses committed by the military in the countryside. They had long called for its abolition, stepping up their campaign against it after the peace talks resumed.
Talks between the communist rebels and the Duterte administration formally resumed in August. It paved the way for unprecedented unilateral ceasefires between the military and the NPA, which have been holding for 4 months now although both camps have reported complaints. The government also committed amnesty for political prisoners.
If issues are resolved, a more stable bilateral ceasefire will be signed before the 3rd round of talks in January. (READ: PH, NDF closer to signing joint ceasefire deal)
The CPP and the NPA are responsible for the longest running communist insurgency in Asia. The CPP is celebrating its 48th anniversary on December 26 through "peace rallies" nationwide.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/155925-oplan-bayanihan-ends
Senators vow to vote down Duterte plan to abrogate VFA
From the Business Mirror (Dec 19): Senators vow to vote down Duterte plan to abrogate VFA
SENATORS are firming up an early consensus to vote down President Duterte’s expressed wish to abrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States, which took effect after its ratification by the Senate in 1999.
But Senate sources indicated they would likely have to contend with Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Duterte’s defeated running mate, who returned to the Senate after losing his vice-presidential bid and now chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations with oversight jurisdiction on matters involving international agreements.
Duterte over the weekend voiced plans to pursue drastic changes in foreign relations and national defense policies, including possible abrogation of the VFA.
Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, however, promptly made known his opposition to the President’s plan, with other senators voicing similar sentiments.
Lacson, in an interview, declared he would vote against VFA abrogation should the issue be submitted for plenary voting in the Senate.
“I will most likely vote against abrogation of the VFA to give meaning to our long-standing Mutual Defense Treaty with the US,” Lacson said.
He added that the Philippines needs rotating US military presence here “to maintain a balance of power in the West Philippine Sea.”
Moreover, Lacson noted that the training and joint military exercises between the Armed Forces and visiting US troops “are important components of our troops’ combat readiness.”
Lacson said “there is a lot to learn from those exercises, which we have nurtured over a long period of time.”
He also noted that it is “mutually beneficial” for both countries to maintain such an alliance.
At the same time, Sen. Leila M. de Lima expressed hope that Duterte would not make rush decisions involving foreign policies, like terminating the VFA with the US.
She suggested that such matters should not be decided precipitously or carelessly without any clear alternatives, precisely because of what the President calls “the changing politics” in the West Philippine Sea.
De Lima warned that Duterte “might be throwing us out of the pan and into the fire.”
She pointed out that “so much at stake here,” citing the “lives of Filipinos, their well-being, security and even our very sovereignty.”
She aired hopes that Duterte would avoid “sacrificing those interests as easily as he sacrifices the lives of the people who are being killed on a daily basis because of his so-called war on drugs.”
De Lima asserted that foreign relations and diplomacy should not be turned “into a grudge match, where the Filipinos’ welfare is just a pawn for him to sacrifice.”
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/senators-vow-to-vote-down-duterte-plan-to-abrogate-vfa/
SENATORS are firming up an early consensus to vote down President Duterte’s expressed wish to abrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States, which took effect after its ratification by the Senate in 1999.
But Senate sources indicated they would likely have to contend with Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Duterte’s defeated running mate, who returned to the Senate after losing his vice-presidential bid and now chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations with oversight jurisdiction on matters involving international agreements.
Duterte over the weekend voiced plans to pursue drastic changes in foreign relations and national defense policies, including possible abrogation of the VFA.
Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, however, promptly made known his opposition to the President’s plan, with other senators voicing similar sentiments.
Lacson, in an interview, declared he would vote against VFA abrogation should the issue be submitted for plenary voting in the Senate.
“I will most likely vote against abrogation of the VFA to give meaning to our long-standing Mutual Defense Treaty with the US,” Lacson said.
He added that the Philippines needs rotating US military presence here “to maintain a balance of power in the West Philippine Sea.”
Moreover, Lacson noted that the training and joint military exercises between the Armed Forces and visiting US troops “are important components of our troops’ combat readiness.”
Lacson said “there is a lot to learn from those exercises, which we have nurtured over a long period of time.”
He also noted that it is “mutually beneficial” for both countries to maintain such an alliance.
At the same time, Sen. Leila M. de Lima expressed hope that Duterte would not make rush decisions involving foreign policies, like terminating the VFA with the US.
She suggested that such matters should not be decided precipitously or carelessly without any clear alternatives, precisely because of what the President calls “the changing politics” in the West Philippine Sea.
De Lima warned that Duterte “might be throwing us out of the pan and into the fire.”
She pointed out that “so much at stake here,” citing the “lives of Filipinos, their well-being, security and even our very sovereignty.”
She aired hopes that Duterte would avoid “sacrificing those interests as easily as he sacrifices the lives of the people who are being killed on a daily basis because of his so-called war on drugs.”
De Lima asserted that foreign relations and diplomacy should not be turned “into a grudge match, where the Filipinos’ welfare is just a pawn for him to sacrifice.”
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/senators-vow-to-vote-down-duterte-plan-to-abrogate-vfa/
Dole packing plant in S. Cotabato damaged in arson attack
From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 20): Dole packing plant in S. Cotabato damaged in arson attack
Government security forces are now tracking down the eight unidentified men who torched the packing station of Dole Stanfilco in South Cotabato Monday night.
Reports reaching the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City said the incident took place around 6:50 p.m. at Barangay Sebuyon, Surallah town.
It added that eight armed men, without any warning, left the packing plant alight and quickly made their escape.
Workers and nearby residents hurriedly contained the blaze even as elements of the 27th Infantry Battalion and the Surallah police were deployed to pursue the suspects.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack which is now logged as the 10th arson incident in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
SOCCSKSARGEN stands for South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and General Santos.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/20/dole-packing-plant-in-s-cotabato-damaged-in-arson-attack/
Government security forces are now tracking down the eight unidentified men who torched the packing station of Dole Stanfilco in South Cotabato Monday night.
Reports reaching the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City said the incident took place around 6:50 p.m. at Barangay Sebuyon, Surallah town.
It added that eight armed men, without any warning, left the packing plant alight and quickly made their escape.
Workers and nearby residents hurriedly contained the blaze even as elements of the 27th Infantry Battalion and the Surallah police were deployed to pursue the suspects.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack which is now logged as the 10th arson incident in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
SOCCSKSARGEN stands for South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and General Santos.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/20/dole-packing-plant-in-s-cotabato-damaged-in-arson-attack/
DWDD: Dela Rosa designates 11 top officials to new posts
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 15): Dela Rosa designates 11 top officials to new posts
Camp Crame — PNP Chief PDG Ronald Bato M Dela Rosa, has approved a new round of top-level reorganization of senior PNP officials in key positions.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2016/12/15/dela-rosa-designates-11-top-officials-to-new-posts/
Camp Crame — PNP Chief PDG Ronald Bato M Dela Rosa, has approved a new round of top-level reorganization of senior PNP officials in key positions.
The latest wave of upward movement of third level police officers was triggered by the retirement of some senior officials in the top echelon of the PNP.
The Chief PNP approved the new designations upon the recommendation of the PNP Senior Officers Placement and Promotion Board (SOPPB).
The reorganization will affect some key positions in the PNP Command Group, Directorial Staff, Directorate for Integrated Police Operations, National Support Units and Police Regional Offices.
The Chief PNP installed Police Deputy Director General Ramon C Apolinario as The Deputy Chief PNP for Operations (TDCO), vice retiring Police Director Benjamin Magalong. Erstwhile PNP Director for Personnel, Police Director Fernando H Mendez Jr, was elevated to the position of The Acting Chief of Directorial Staff (TACDS) effective December 15, 2016.
Dela Rosa also named other senior police officials to new posts in the PNP D-Staff, Regional Offices and NSUs. They are:
· PCSupt Ramon O Purugganan – the Acting Director for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM);
· PCSupt Edwin C Roque – the Acting Director for Plans (DPL);
· PSSupt Glenn G Dumlao – Acting Director, Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG); and
· PSSupt Manolo N Ozaeta – Acting Director, Legal Service;
Aso, included in the major revamp are:
· PCSupt Sheldon Jacaban – Acting Deputy Director, Director for Intelligence (DI);
· PSSupt Renato C Angara – Acting Deputy Regional Director for Administration (ADRDA), Police Regional Office 2 (PRO 2);
· PSSupt Jose A Briones Jr – ADRDA, PRO 12;
· PSSupt Froilan F Quidilla – ADRDA, PRO MIMAROPA; and
PCSupt Frankling Moises R Mabanag – ADRDA, PRO 7http://dwdd.com.ph/2016/12/15/dela-rosa-designates-11-top-officials-to-new-posts/
MILF: Comdr. Bravo denies having his own gov’t, claims to support Duterte’s war on drugs
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 20): Comdr. Bravo denies having his own gov’t, claims to support Duterte’s war on drugs
Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leader Abdullah Macapaar, popularly known as “Commander Bravo” has denied establishing his own “government” in Mindanao and claimed that he was actually helping the Duterte administration in its war against illegal drugs, a Manila Bulletin online report said on December 19.
Comdr. Bravo told Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers and Muslim Concerns Secretary Abdullah “Dabs” Mama-o when they met last Dec. 10 in his mountain hideout in Lanao del Sur.
Bravo clarified to Mama-o that his operations in the MILF Northwestern Mindanao Front (NWMF), were, in fact, in support of the President’s war on drugs.
President Rodrigo Duterte have recently ordered Mama-o 20 days to get rid of Bravo whose group is allegedly getting payoffs from drug dealers and distributors from some parts of the country including Metro Manila and the Visayas Island .
“Drug syndicates were the ones that cooked up wrong information that reached the President to make it appear I was setting up a separate government”, Bravo said.
He also told Sec. Mama-o that his command will continue complementing the president’s drive against the scourge of drugs.
He pointed out that he abides by the on-going peace process between the government and the MILF.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/19-national/1004-comdr-bravo-denies-having-his-own-gov-t-claims-to-support-duterte-s-war-on-drugs
Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leader Abdullah Macapaar, popularly known as “Commander Bravo” has denied establishing his own “government” in Mindanao and claimed that he was actually helping the Duterte administration in its war against illegal drugs, a Manila Bulletin online report said on December 19.
Bravo clarified to Mama-o that his operations in the MILF Northwestern Mindanao Front (NWMF), were, in fact, in support of the President’s war on drugs.
President Rodrigo Duterte have recently ordered Mama-o 20 days to get rid of Bravo whose group is allegedly getting payoffs from drug dealers and distributors from some parts of the country including Metro Manila and the Visayas Island .
“Drug syndicates were the ones that cooked up wrong information that reached the President to make it appear I was setting up a separate government”, Bravo said.
He also told Sec. Mama-o that his command will continue complementing the president’s drive against the scourge of drugs.
He pointed out that he abides by the on-going peace process between the government and the MILF.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/19-national/1004-comdr-bravo-denies-having-his-own-gov-t-claims-to-support-duterte-s-war-on-drugs
CPP: Peace sa Panahon ng Digma
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 20): Peace sa Panahon ng Digma (Peace in Time of War)
Ilang taong natigil ang usapang pangkapayapaan ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) at Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) bago ito muling binuksan sa ilalim ng bagong gubyernong Duterte. Para matuloy ito, pinalaya ng presidente ng GRP na si Rodrigo Duterte alinsunod sa JASIG noong Agosto ang 22 sa 25 konsultant ng NDFP at nangakong palalayain ang iba pang bilanggong pulitikal.
Mula noon, dalawang ulit nang nag-usap ang mga kinatawan ng NDFP at GRP sa Oslo, Norway. Noong Agosto, kinilala ang dati nang napirmahang mga kasunduan tulad ng CARHRHIL, The Hague Joint Declaration at JASIG. Nagkaisa rin silang hingin kay Duterte na bigyan ng amnestiya ang lahat ng bilanggong pulitikal. Nagkasundo rin ang dalawang panig na magdeklara ng kani-kanyang tigil-putukan habang binubuo ang kasunduan para dito.
Pabibilisin ang takbo ng usapan. Habang pinagkakasunduan ang mga reporma sa ekonomya, sisimulan na rin ang pag-uusap para sa reporma sa pulitika at konstitusyon, at sa pagtatapos ng mga labanan at disposisyon ng mga pwersa.
Noong Oktubre, nabuo na ang balangkas ng CASER (Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms o kasunduan sa mga repormang sosyo-ekonomiko). Plano itong pag-usapan uli sa Enero sa susunod na taon.
Ayon sa GRP, hawak na ni Duterte ang proklamasyong magpapalaya sa mga bilanggong pulitikal. Pero pagkatapos ng usapan sa Oslo, sinabi ng GRP na hindi na magkakaroon ng amnestiya.
Magpapalaya na lamang daw ng 40-50 detenido sa katapusan ng taon. Hindi rin tinotoo ng GRP ang sarili nitong tigil-putukan dahil tuluy-tuloy lang ang mga operasyong militar sa kanayunan.
1. Bakit pumapasok ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa peace talks?
Nakikipag-usap ang NDFP sa GRP sa layuning makipagkaisa sa mga programa o hakbanging kapaki-pakinabang sa bayan. Kung magsisimula ang usapan sa punto-de-bista ng kapakanan ng nakararami, hindi imposibleng pagkasunduan ang mga hakbangin tulad ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa, pati na ang pagtigil ng kontraktwalisasyon, pagtaas ng sahod, pagbaba ng presyo ng bilihin hanggang sa pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa.
Handa ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan na pumasok sa isang alyansa ng pakikipagtulungan sa sinumang nakaupo sa Malacanang para ipaglaban ang pambansang soberanya at tapusin ang dominasyon ng US sa lahat ng aspeto ng lipunang Pilipino.
Ang peace talks ay isang larangan ng paglaban para isulong ang kapakanan ng mamamayan. Karugtong ito pero sekundaryo sa armadong pakikibaka. Walang peace talks kung walang digmang bayan. Nakadepende sa lakas ng digmang bayan ang magiging pakinabang sa usapang pangkapayapaan.
Sa esensya, salamin ng nagpapatuloy na gera sibil sa Pilipinas ang peace talks: ang digmang bayan na inilulunsad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan, sa isang panig; at ang digmang mapanupil ng naghaharing reaksyunaryong estado, sa kabilang panig.
Bukas ang NDFP sa alok ng gubyernong Duterte sa peace talks. Dito, hamon kay Duterte na patunayan ang pangako niyang pagbabago sa buhay ng mamamayan. Para sa NDFP, hindi kapayapaan ang simpleng pagtitigil ng digmaan. Ang makatarungan at pangmatagalang kapayapaan ay matatamo sa pagwawakas sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala sa mamamayan.
2. Ano ang gera sibil sa Pilipinas?
Ang gera sibil sa Pilipinas, sa esensya, ay isang gera sa pagitan ng dalawang gubyerno: ang GRP at ang demokratikong gubyernong bayan.
Dala-dala ng GRP ang interes ng mga dayuhang imperyalista at naghaharing uring malalaking burgesyang kumprador at panginoong maylupa. Sinusupil nito ang kagustuhan ng sambayanang Pilipino para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa, pambansang industriyalisasyon at pambansang kalayaan. Sa ilalim ng GRP, pinahihirapan ang sambayanan ng mababang sahod, kontraktwalisasyon, kawalang trabaho at atrasadong ekonomya, bulok na mga serbisyong pampubliko, gutom, kahirapan at iba pa.
Sa kabilang banda, sa ilalim ng umuusbong na demokratikong gubyernong bayan na kinakatawan ng NDFP, isinusulong ang interes ng mga manggagawa, magsasaka, mga panggitna at iba pang demokratikong uri. Dito, pinakikinabangan ng masang magsasaka ang pagpapababa ng upa sa lupa at pagtaas ng sahod ng manggagawang bukid. Naitatayo ang mga eskwelahan, hukuman, kooperatiba, sentrong medikal at iba pang serbisyo para sa kanilang kagalingan.
Sinusulong ng New People’s Army (NPA) ang digmang bayan para ibagsak ang GRP at itayo ang demokratikong gubyernong bayan sa buong Pilipinas.
3. Bakit may tigil-putukan? Hanggang kailan ito magtatagal?
Kasabay ng GRP, nagdeklara ang PKP ng pansamantalang tigil-putukan noong Agosto. May bisa ang deklarasyon ng PKP hanggang sumusulong ang usapan at ipinatutupad ang mga kasunduan. Layunin ng pagtitigil-putukan na ibwelo pa ang usapan.
Pero mula Agosto, hindi bababa sa 500 baryong saklaw ng mga sonang gerilya at gubyernong bayan ang inoperasyon ng AFP sa ngalan ng Oplan Bayanihan. Nagbabahay-bahay ang mga sundalo para takutin ang mga magsasaka, imbestigahan sila at pilitin silang maging mga espiya at paramilitar. Nagkakampo sila sa mga eskwelahan, barangay hall at day care center. Bawal ito sa mga batas ng digma at sa CARHRHIL.
Sa panig ng NPA, seryoso at disiplinadong sinusunod ng lahat ang tigil-putukan. Ginagawa nito ang lahat para iwasang makasagupa ang mga sundalo ng AFP. Nagtitimpi ang mga Pulang mandirigma sa mga pagmamalupit na ginagawa ng mga sundalo sa taumbaryo.
Habang tumatagal, lumalakas ang hiling ng mamamayan na bawiin na ang tigil-putukan at parusahan ang mga abusadong yunit ng militar. Kung magpapatuloy ang Oplan Bayanihan, maoobliga ang PKP na bawiin na ang deklarasyon nitong tigil-putukan. Maaaring ituloy ang usapan kahit walang tigil-putukan.
4. Ano ang hinaharap ng usapang pangkapayapaan?
Nakasalalay ang pagsulong ng usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagtupad ng rehimeng Duterte sa mga obligasyon nito sa NDFP at sa pagtugon nito sa sigaw ng bayan para sa pambansa at panlipunang paglaya.
Kung pagbabasehan ang salita ni Duterte na nagtataguyod sa kapakanan ng mamamayan at diwang makabayan, marami ang pwedeng pagkasunduan sa NDFP.
Pero malaki pa ang dapat patunayan ni Duterte sa gawa. Ang pangako niyang palayain ang mahigit 430 bilanggong pulitikal ay hindi pa naipatutupad. Hindi pa niya pinasusunod ang AFP sa idineklara niyang tigil-putukan.
Kailangan rin niyang magpakita ng seryosong interes sa paglutas ng mga usaping sosyo-ekonomiko, na pangunahing nasa ilalim ng armadong paglaban ng bayan. Hindi pwedeng ang interes lang niya ay itigil ang gera.
Malamang nga na hindi na magkakaroon ng kasunduan sa tigil-putukan sa harap ng hindi pagpapalaya sa mga bilanggong pulitikal at nagpapatuloy na Oplan Bayanihan.
Gayunman, mayroon man o walang tigil-putukan, handa ang NDFP na makipagnegosasyon para iharap ang pambansa demokratikong programa bilang saligan ng pangmatagalan at makatarungang kapayapaan. Inaasahang uunlad pa ang usapang pangkapayapaan kasabay ng ibayong pagsulong ng digmang bayan at mga pagbabagong dadaanan pa ng rehimeng Duterte sa harap ng nagpapatuloy na krisis ng naghaharing sistema.
5. Ano ang tungkulin ng mamamayan atrebolusyonaryong kilusan sa peace talks?
Ang interes ng mga magsasaka, manggagawa at karaniwang mamamayan ang kinakatawan ng NDFP sa usapang pangkapayapaan. Dapat kumilos ang sambayanang Pilipino para suportahan at palakasin ang pusisyon ng NDFP sa pakikipagnegosasyon. Unang-una, dapat palaganapin, pag-aralan at palawakin ang suporta para sa 12-puntong programa ng NDFP laluna para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa at pambansang industriyalisasyon.
Tuluy-tuloy na ipaglaban ang mga hiling ng bayan, tulad ng pagpapababa ng upa sa lupa, pagpapataas sa presyo ng mga produktong magsasaka, dagdag na sahod, pagtigil sa kontraktwalisasyon, pagpababa sa presyo ng bilihin at maraming iba pa. Isagawa ang mga sama-samang pagkilos sa mga baryo, sentrong bayan at mga syudad.
Kumilos laban sa Oplan Bayanihan. Habang may tigil-putukan, buuin ang mga komite para subaybayan at ilantad ang mga nag-ooperasyong sundalo. Mayroon man o walang tigil-putukan, dapat ilantad at tutulan ang presensya at pang-aabuso ng mga sundalo sa mga baryo.
Dapat magtulungan ang mga magkakapitbaryo para palayasin ang mga pwersang militar sa kanilang lugar. Ang mga nasa kalunsuran ay dapat sumuporta sa paglaban ng mga magsasaka laban sa panghahalihaw ng AFP sa mga sibilyang komunidad. Dalhin nila ang kanilang mga hinaing sa mga kilos protesta, pagtawag sa radyo, paglalabas ng mga litrato ng mga sundalo sa internet, at iba pa.
Higit sa lahat, habang nakikipag-usapang pangkapayapaan ang NDFP, dapat nakatuon ang pansin ng sambayanan sa pagsusulong ng digmang bayan at armadong rebolusyon. Ang mga rebolusyonaryong organisasyong masa sa kanayunan at kalunsuran ay dapat maglunsad ng kampanya para sa maramihang pagpapasapi sa hukbong bayan. Sa kanayunan, patuloy na itayo at palakasin ang mga milisya, mga lambat paniktik, at mga network para sa madulas na maniobra ng hukbong bayan. Dapat tuluy-tuloy na magpalakas ang hukbong bayan. Dapat sanayin at armasan ang mga Pulang mandirigma.
Tipunin ang pinakamalawak na suporta para sa digmang bayan. Sa katuus-tuusan, anumang pakinabang na matatamo ng bayan sa usapang pangkapayapaan ay nakasalalay sa lakas ng armadong paglaban.
___
JASIG – Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees Sinasaad sa kasunduang ito na ligtas sa pang-aaresto at detensyon ang mga konsultant at tauhan ng magkabilang panig na bahagi sa usapang pangkapayapaan.
CASER – Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms Nasa antas ngayon ang usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagbubuo ng kasunduang ito. Pangunahing laman nito ang mga reporma sa ekonomya tulad ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa.
CARHRIHL – Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Sinasaad sa kasunduang ito ang mga batayang karapatang sibil, pulitikal at ekonomiko ng mamamayan, gayudin ang kanilang mga karapatan sa gitna ng digma. Napirmahan ang kasunduang ito noong 1998 ng prinsipal ng NDFP na si Mariano Orosa at ng presidente noong ng GRP na si Joseph Estrada.
The Hague Joint Declaration – Sinasaad ng deklarasyong ito ang mga sustantibong adyenda ng usapan at ang pagkakasunud-sunod ng mga ito.
https://www.cpp.ph/peace-sa-panahon-ng-digma/
Ilang taong natigil ang usapang pangkapayapaan ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) at Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) bago ito muling binuksan sa ilalim ng bagong gubyernong Duterte. Para matuloy ito, pinalaya ng presidente ng GRP na si Rodrigo Duterte alinsunod sa JASIG noong Agosto ang 22 sa 25 konsultant ng NDFP at nangakong palalayain ang iba pang bilanggong pulitikal.
Mula noon, dalawang ulit nang nag-usap ang mga kinatawan ng NDFP at GRP sa Oslo, Norway. Noong Agosto, kinilala ang dati nang napirmahang mga kasunduan tulad ng CARHRHIL, The Hague Joint Declaration at JASIG. Nagkaisa rin silang hingin kay Duterte na bigyan ng amnestiya ang lahat ng bilanggong pulitikal. Nagkasundo rin ang dalawang panig na magdeklara ng kani-kanyang tigil-putukan habang binubuo ang kasunduan para dito.
Pabibilisin ang takbo ng usapan. Habang pinagkakasunduan ang mga reporma sa ekonomya, sisimulan na rin ang pag-uusap para sa reporma sa pulitika at konstitusyon, at sa pagtatapos ng mga labanan at disposisyon ng mga pwersa.
Noong Oktubre, nabuo na ang balangkas ng CASER (Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms o kasunduan sa mga repormang sosyo-ekonomiko). Plano itong pag-usapan uli sa Enero sa susunod na taon.
Ayon sa GRP, hawak na ni Duterte ang proklamasyong magpapalaya sa mga bilanggong pulitikal. Pero pagkatapos ng usapan sa Oslo, sinabi ng GRP na hindi na magkakaroon ng amnestiya.
Magpapalaya na lamang daw ng 40-50 detenido sa katapusan ng taon. Hindi rin tinotoo ng GRP ang sarili nitong tigil-putukan dahil tuluy-tuloy lang ang mga operasyong militar sa kanayunan.
1. Bakit pumapasok ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa peace talks?
Nakikipag-usap ang NDFP sa GRP sa layuning makipagkaisa sa mga programa o hakbanging kapaki-pakinabang sa bayan. Kung magsisimula ang usapan sa punto-de-bista ng kapakanan ng nakararami, hindi imposibleng pagkasunduan ang mga hakbangin tulad ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa, pati na ang pagtigil ng kontraktwalisasyon, pagtaas ng sahod, pagbaba ng presyo ng bilihin hanggang sa pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa.
Handa ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan na pumasok sa isang alyansa ng pakikipagtulungan sa sinumang nakaupo sa Malacanang para ipaglaban ang pambansang soberanya at tapusin ang dominasyon ng US sa lahat ng aspeto ng lipunang Pilipino.
Ang peace talks ay isang larangan ng paglaban para isulong ang kapakanan ng mamamayan. Karugtong ito pero sekundaryo sa armadong pakikibaka. Walang peace talks kung walang digmang bayan. Nakadepende sa lakas ng digmang bayan ang magiging pakinabang sa usapang pangkapayapaan.
Sa esensya, salamin ng nagpapatuloy na gera sibil sa Pilipinas ang peace talks: ang digmang bayan na inilulunsad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan, sa isang panig; at ang digmang mapanupil ng naghaharing reaksyunaryong estado, sa kabilang panig.
Bukas ang NDFP sa alok ng gubyernong Duterte sa peace talks. Dito, hamon kay Duterte na patunayan ang pangako niyang pagbabago sa buhay ng mamamayan. Para sa NDFP, hindi kapayapaan ang simpleng pagtitigil ng digmaan. Ang makatarungan at pangmatagalang kapayapaan ay matatamo sa pagwawakas sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala sa mamamayan.
2. Ano ang gera sibil sa Pilipinas?
Ang gera sibil sa Pilipinas, sa esensya, ay isang gera sa pagitan ng dalawang gubyerno: ang GRP at ang demokratikong gubyernong bayan.
Dala-dala ng GRP ang interes ng mga dayuhang imperyalista at naghaharing uring malalaking burgesyang kumprador at panginoong maylupa. Sinusupil nito ang kagustuhan ng sambayanang Pilipino para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa, pambansang industriyalisasyon at pambansang kalayaan. Sa ilalim ng GRP, pinahihirapan ang sambayanan ng mababang sahod, kontraktwalisasyon, kawalang trabaho at atrasadong ekonomya, bulok na mga serbisyong pampubliko, gutom, kahirapan at iba pa.
Sa kabilang banda, sa ilalim ng umuusbong na demokratikong gubyernong bayan na kinakatawan ng NDFP, isinusulong ang interes ng mga manggagawa, magsasaka, mga panggitna at iba pang demokratikong uri. Dito, pinakikinabangan ng masang magsasaka ang pagpapababa ng upa sa lupa at pagtaas ng sahod ng manggagawang bukid. Naitatayo ang mga eskwelahan, hukuman, kooperatiba, sentrong medikal at iba pang serbisyo para sa kanilang kagalingan.
Sinusulong ng New People’s Army (NPA) ang digmang bayan para ibagsak ang GRP at itayo ang demokratikong gubyernong bayan sa buong Pilipinas.
3. Bakit may tigil-putukan? Hanggang kailan ito magtatagal?
Kasabay ng GRP, nagdeklara ang PKP ng pansamantalang tigil-putukan noong Agosto. May bisa ang deklarasyon ng PKP hanggang sumusulong ang usapan at ipinatutupad ang mga kasunduan. Layunin ng pagtitigil-putukan na ibwelo pa ang usapan.
Pero mula Agosto, hindi bababa sa 500 baryong saklaw ng mga sonang gerilya at gubyernong bayan ang inoperasyon ng AFP sa ngalan ng Oplan Bayanihan. Nagbabahay-bahay ang mga sundalo para takutin ang mga magsasaka, imbestigahan sila at pilitin silang maging mga espiya at paramilitar. Nagkakampo sila sa mga eskwelahan, barangay hall at day care center. Bawal ito sa mga batas ng digma at sa CARHRHIL.
Sa panig ng NPA, seryoso at disiplinadong sinusunod ng lahat ang tigil-putukan. Ginagawa nito ang lahat para iwasang makasagupa ang mga sundalo ng AFP. Nagtitimpi ang mga Pulang mandirigma sa mga pagmamalupit na ginagawa ng mga sundalo sa taumbaryo.
Habang tumatagal, lumalakas ang hiling ng mamamayan na bawiin na ang tigil-putukan at parusahan ang mga abusadong yunit ng militar. Kung magpapatuloy ang Oplan Bayanihan, maoobliga ang PKP na bawiin na ang deklarasyon nitong tigil-putukan. Maaaring ituloy ang usapan kahit walang tigil-putukan.
4. Ano ang hinaharap ng usapang pangkapayapaan?
Nakasalalay ang pagsulong ng usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagtupad ng rehimeng Duterte sa mga obligasyon nito sa NDFP at sa pagtugon nito sa sigaw ng bayan para sa pambansa at panlipunang paglaya.
Kung pagbabasehan ang salita ni Duterte na nagtataguyod sa kapakanan ng mamamayan at diwang makabayan, marami ang pwedeng pagkasunduan sa NDFP.
Pero malaki pa ang dapat patunayan ni Duterte sa gawa. Ang pangako niyang palayain ang mahigit 430 bilanggong pulitikal ay hindi pa naipatutupad. Hindi pa niya pinasusunod ang AFP sa idineklara niyang tigil-putukan.
Kailangan rin niyang magpakita ng seryosong interes sa paglutas ng mga usaping sosyo-ekonomiko, na pangunahing nasa ilalim ng armadong paglaban ng bayan. Hindi pwedeng ang interes lang niya ay itigil ang gera.
Malamang nga na hindi na magkakaroon ng kasunduan sa tigil-putukan sa harap ng hindi pagpapalaya sa mga bilanggong pulitikal at nagpapatuloy na Oplan Bayanihan.
Gayunman, mayroon man o walang tigil-putukan, handa ang NDFP na makipagnegosasyon para iharap ang pambansa demokratikong programa bilang saligan ng pangmatagalan at makatarungang kapayapaan. Inaasahang uunlad pa ang usapang pangkapayapaan kasabay ng ibayong pagsulong ng digmang bayan at mga pagbabagong dadaanan pa ng rehimeng Duterte sa harap ng nagpapatuloy na krisis ng naghaharing sistema.
5. Ano ang tungkulin ng mamamayan atrebolusyonaryong kilusan sa peace talks?
Ang interes ng mga magsasaka, manggagawa at karaniwang mamamayan ang kinakatawan ng NDFP sa usapang pangkapayapaan. Dapat kumilos ang sambayanang Pilipino para suportahan at palakasin ang pusisyon ng NDFP sa pakikipagnegosasyon. Unang-una, dapat palaganapin, pag-aralan at palawakin ang suporta para sa 12-puntong programa ng NDFP laluna para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa at pambansang industriyalisasyon.
Tuluy-tuloy na ipaglaban ang mga hiling ng bayan, tulad ng pagpapababa ng upa sa lupa, pagpapataas sa presyo ng mga produktong magsasaka, dagdag na sahod, pagtigil sa kontraktwalisasyon, pagpababa sa presyo ng bilihin at maraming iba pa. Isagawa ang mga sama-samang pagkilos sa mga baryo, sentrong bayan at mga syudad.
Kumilos laban sa Oplan Bayanihan. Habang may tigil-putukan, buuin ang mga komite para subaybayan at ilantad ang mga nag-ooperasyong sundalo. Mayroon man o walang tigil-putukan, dapat ilantad at tutulan ang presensya at pang-aabuso ng mga sundalo sa mga baryo.
Dapat magtulungan ang mga magkakapitbaryo para palayasin ang mga pwersang militar sa kanilang lugar. Ang mga nasa kalunsuran ay dapat sumuporta sa paglaban ng mga magsasaka laban sa panghahalihaw ng AFP sa mga sibilyang komunidad. Dalhin nila ang kanilang mga hinaing sa mga kilos protesta, pagtawag sa radyo, paglalabas ng mga litrato ng mga sundalo sa internet, at iba pa.
Higit sa lahat, habang nakikipag-usapang pangkapayapaan ang NDFP, dapat nakatuon ang pansin ng sambayanan sa pagsusulong ng digmang bayan at armadong rebolusyon. Ang mga rebolusyonaryong organisasyong masa sa kanayunan at kalunsuran ay dapat maglunsad ng kampanya para sa maramihang pagpapasapi sa hukbong bayan. Sa kanayunan, patuloy na itayo at palakasin ang mga milisya, mga lambat paniktik, at mga network para sa madulas na maniobra ng hukbong bayan. Dapat tuluy-tuloy na magpalakas ang hukbong bayan. Dapat sanayin at armasan ang mga Pulang mandirigma.
Tipunin ang pinakamalawak na suporta para sa digmang bayan. Sa katuus-tuusan, anumang pakinabang na matatamo ng bayan sa usapang pangkapayapaan ay nakasalalay sa lakas ng armadong paglaban.
___
JASIG – Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees Sinasaad sa kasunduang ito na ligtas sa pang-aaresto at detensyon ang mga konsultant at tauhan ng magkabilang panig na bahagi sa usapang pangkapayapaan.
CASER – Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms Nasa antas ngayon ang usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagbubuo ng kasunduang ito. Pangunahing laman nito ang mga reporma sa ekonomya tulad ng pambansang industriyalisasyon at reporma sa lupa.
CARHRIHL – Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Sinasaad sa kasunduang ito ang mga batayang karapatang sibil, pulitikal at ekonomiko ng mamamayan, gayudin ang kanilang mga karapatan sa gitna ng digma. Napirmahan ang kasunduang ito noong 1998 ng prinsipal ng NDFP na si Mariano Orosa at ng presidente noong ng GRP na si Joseph Estrada.
The Hague Joint Declaration – Sinasaad ng deklarasyong ito ang mga sustantibong adyenda ng usapan at ang pagkakasunud-sunod ng mga ito.
https://www.cpp.ph/peace-sa-panahon-ng-digma/
Duterte to China: Let's share oil in West PH Sea
From Rappler (Dec 20): Duterte to China: Let's share oil in West PH Sea
'Kung gusto ninyo, let's just develop what's the oil there, hati-hati nalang tayo,' says President Rodrigo Duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte again floated the idea of sharing oil in the West Philippine Sea with China, despite an international arbitral award that says parts of the sea are in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. (READ: Philippines wins case vs China)
'Kung gusto ninyo, let's just develop what's the oil there, hati-hati nalang tayo,' says President Rodrigo Duterte
SHARING WITH CHINA? President Rodrigo Duterte speaks during the awarding ceremony for the 2016 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas at the Malacañang Palace on December 19, 2016. Photo by Toto Lozano/Presidential Photo
President Rodrigo Duterte again floated the idea of sharing oil in the West Philippine Sea with China, despite an international arbitral award that says parts of the sea are in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. (READ: Philippines wins case vs China)
"I have this arbitral award, so I have to push it. Kung gusto ninyo (If you want), let's just develop what's the oil there, hati-hati nalang tayo (let's divide it up)," said Duterte on Monday, December 19, during a speech at the Palace.
"Anuhin ko naman iyang dagat kung walang (What can I do with that sea if there is no) – What will I do with the Scarborough Shoal? Swim there everyday? For what? To send my soldiers there to die? Nakalutang lahat? (Everyone floating there?)" he added.
While some countries like the United States want Duterte to assert the Philippines' victory over China in its claims in the sea, he said he would not raise the award any time soon.
Bringing up the award may stoke tensions with China which Duterte now regards as a new "friend" and ally.
"Iyang oil, tayo may arbitral. Gusto nila [US] i-push talaga natin. Bakit naman ako maghanap ng away? (That oil, we have the arbitral award. They want us to push it. Why would I look for a fight?) If I send the Marines there, they’ll be wiped out in just one minute. It will be a disaster," he said.
His statement comes after increased militarization by the Chinese in the West Philippine Sea, a militarization Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr said the government can't do anything about.
Duterte said he will eventually raise the arbitral award with Chinese leaders but did not say when that time will come.
"There will be a day, sinabi ko kay (I told) Xi Jinping, that we will have to take this up. But not now because I am here as a visitor... But I will bring this up. Alam na niya, pati ang ambassador dito iyong Chinese (He knows, even the Chinese Ambassador). I will bring this up, someday," said Duterte.
"But it will be during my time, that I have this arbitral award, so I have to push it," he added.
Oil for insfrastructure?
Duterte says proposals on joint exploration for oil in the West Philippine Sea were not discussed during his state visit to China last October.
Since his 2016 campaign, however, he has said he is open to the idea especially if China agrees to help finance big infrastructure projects like trains.
China has agreed to do just that with Chinese state-owned companies expressing interest in some railway projects approved by the Duterte government.
Under his presidency, the Senate also concurred in the ratification of a treaty allowing the Philippines to formally join the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Full membership in the AIIB “could provide an annual infrastructure financing window to the Philippines of about $200 million to $500 million," according to Senate finance committee chairperson Senator Loren Legarda.
Top businessmen pledge support for Sulu's economic revival
From Rappler (Dec 20): Top businessmen pledge support for Sulu's economic revival
Tycoons like Manny V. Pangilinan, Ramon Ang, and Lucio Tan declare their support for the Duterte administration's bid to unleash the economic potential of violence-stricken Sulu
FOR SULU'S FUTURE. Businessmen, government officials, and NGOs pledge support for the Duterte administration's 'Save Sulu' program. Photo from PPD
The country's most prominent businessmen and business groups flocked to Malacañang Palace on Monday, December 19, for the benefit of a small, embattled province in the southern Philippines: Sulu.
Tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan, SM's Tessie Sy-Coson, taipan Lucio Tan and his son Michael Tan were among the businessmen present at the "Negosyo Para Sa Kapayapaan sa Sulu: Christmas Town Hall with the President."
In the same hall as the country's billionaires were small agribusiness entrepreneurs from Sulu, Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto, local government executives, and Cabinet secretaries.
The guest speaker for the event was none other than President Rodrigo Duterte who, according to Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol, kickstarted the Save Sulu project by ordering Piñol to visit Sulu last September and see what could be done to help improve the lives of farmers and fishermen there.
PLEDGE FOR SULU. Businessman Manny V Pangilinan speaks at the Go Negosyo event for Sulu development in Malacañang. Photo from PPD
Piñol quickly got in touch with Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion who thought of promoting entrepreneurship and linking Sulu farmers and fishermen to big businesses.
The idea snowballed with more and more business groups pledging support in various ways.
Below is the list of pledges made:
MVP Group
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156068-philippines-businessmen-support-save-sulu-entrepreneurship-agriculture
Tycoons like Manny V. Pangilinan, Ramon Ang, and Lucio Tan declare their support for the Duterte administration's bid to unleash the economic potential of violence-stricken Sulu
FOR SULU'S FUTURE. Businessmen, government officials, and NGOs pledge support for the Duterte administration's 'Save Sulu' program. Photo from PPD
The country's most prominent businessmen and business groups flocked to Malacañang Palace on Monday, December 19, for the benefit of a small, embattled province in the southern Philippines: Sulu.
Tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan, SM's Tessie Sy-Coson, taipan Lucio Tan and his son Michael Tan were among the businessmen present at the "Negosyo Para Sa Kapayapaan sa Sulu: Christmas Town Hall with the President."
In the same hall as the country's billionaires were small agribusiness entrepreneurs from Sulu, Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto, local government executives, and Cabinet secretaries.
The guest speaker for the event was none other than President Rodrigo Duterte who, according to Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol, kickstarted the Save Sulu project by ordering Piñol to visit Sulu last September and see what could be done to help improve the lives of farmers and fishermen there.
PLEDGE FOR SULU. Businessman Manny V Pangilinan speaks at the Go Negosyo event for Sulu development in Malacañang. Photo from PPD
Piñol quickly got in touch with Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion who thought of promoting entrepreneurship and linking Sulu farmers and fishermen to big businesses.
The idea snowballed with more and more business groups pledging support in various ways.
Below is the list of pledges made:
MVP Group
- Rehabilitate and expand the current 16 Smart cell sites in Sulu
- Build at least 40 houses in the next 2 years
- Manila Water and Meralco to provide water and power to communities
- Donate medical equipment to Sulu hospitals, train Sulu doctors in MVP-owned hospitals, provide scholarships for Sulu residents to get medical degrees, cooperation between MVP-owned hospitals in Zamboanga with Sulu hospitals
San Miguel Corporation
- 50-megawatt coal-fired power plant
- Rebuild school of arts and trade
- Feed mill supply chain
Bounty Fresh Food Incorporated
- Poultry farms for livelihood
- Chooks to Go outlets
W Group
- Source carrageenan from Sulu seaweed farmers
Gawad Kalinga
- 106 houses pledged by various donors
Lucio Tan Group, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (FFCCCII), and Representive Arthur Yap
- 32 classrooms
KAPATID Agri Group
- Training for farmers
Quintin Pastrana
- Library and literacy programs in GK Kapatid villages
National Bookstore
- School supplies for at least 100,000 students
Sulu rising
Aside from the commitments above, trade chief Lopez said the government wants to partner with top retailers to help Sulu farmers and fishermen earn more income.
His department has asked big companies like SM, Robinsons, Adobo Dragon Group, Rustan's Group, and Puregold "to allocate a specific space in their malls for free" to make products of small Sulu agri-entrepreneurs, farmers, and fishermen accessible to more buyers, said Lopez.
FOR SULU'S FUTURE. Businessmen, government officials, and NGOs pledge support for the Duterte administration's 'Save Sulu' program. Screenshot from RTVM
These "GO Local" stores are intended to "provide a sustainable market for the agri sector, especially for our poor farmers," he added.
Duterte is also giving direct assistance to the initiative with his contribution of P1 billion from the Office of the President's budget to be used for loans for micro and small entrepreneurs.
P50 million of this will be just for Sulu projects and entrepreneurs.
"For the Sulu projects, we are happy to allocate P50 million for the Sulu farmers and all our projects that we will do for Sulu to jumpstart the economy in Sulu... If we do well, we can do another P50 million for that area," said Lopez.
Agriculture chief Piñol, meanwhile, said his department is giving tractors and farming implements to farmers for free and providing them with training.
Poverty, violence
Former Sulu governor Abdusakur Mihail Tan thanked the government and private sector for their help for his province, a group of islands unfortunately more famous for being a stronghold of terrorists and kidnap-for-ransom groups than for its rich natural resources and beauty.
Tan said he regrets the 67% poverty incidence rate in Sulu which is way above the national average of 21%.
While military forces continue their offensive against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, Tan said the violence will continue if poverty is not addressed. (READ: Time to stop kidnap-for-ransom in Sulu)
"We need education. Even the criminals would like to see their children have medical attention, to have livelihood, to have homes, to have roofs over their heads, to have food on their tables. So we have been saying that war alone can never solve the problem. We need to address poverty," said Tan.
FFCCCII president Angel Yu agreed that Sulu has "so much potential" for business and tourism but that the security situation has "hindered" its growth. (READ: Risk and relaxation: What it's like to tour Sulu)
Duterte, in his speech, repeated his firm belief that "no progress or development can come to a country if there is no law and order."
Will the Duterte administration bring peace and prosperity to Sulu?
Sulu residents pinned their hopes on the Mindanaoan President during the last elections when he won 80% of their votes.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156068-philippines-businessmen-support-save-sulu-entrepreneurship-agriculture
Dela Rosa: No 'cash gifts' for top cops, maybe rice
From Rappler (Dec 20): Dela Rosa: No 'cash gifts' for top cops, maybe rice
The PNP chief takes back an earlier announcement about 'cash gifts' from the Palace meant for key police officials. The money never came, he says.
WHOOPS? PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa says the 'cash gifts' for top police officials from the Palace won't push through. File photo by Joel Liporada/Rappler
A little over 24 hours after he first announced "cash gifts" for top police officials from no less than President Rodrigo Duterte, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the money "did not come."
"'Yung bonus na talagang bonus na nakalagay sa suweldo namin, naibigay na iyon. Pero 'yung kahapon na inannounce ko, supposed to be naghintay kami kahapon kaso nung nag-press con tayo, maraming nagtatanong kung saan ang source, saan galing, siguro na-discourage ang Malacañang magbigay hanggang ginabi na lang, walang dumating," Dela Rosa said on Tuesday, December 20, during a chance interview in Camp Crame. (The bonus that's part of our salaries, that's already been released. But what I announced yesterday, we were supposed to wait for it but when I had that press conference, a lot of you were asking about the source of the funds, where it came from. Malacañang, I suppose, was discouraged. We waited until evening but the cash gifts never came.)
During the PNP National Headquarters Christmas party in Camp Crame, Dela Rosa announced a P50,000 to P400,000 "cash gift" from Duterte to top officials in the PNP – the Command Group, the directorates, down to the regional and provincial offices.
There are 18 regional offices in the PNP, which supervise the country's 81 provinces. At the PNP headquarters, there are at least 12 directorates and 23 operational and administrative support units.
"Kaya sabi nila baka before mag New Year or what baka bigyan na lang kami ng isang sakong bigas (So the Palace said maybe before New Year we might each be given a sack of rice)," added Dela Rosa.
Immediately after Dela Rosa's impromptu announcement, the PNP and the Palace had received backlash over the "cash gifts."
Senior officers who weren't "star-ranked" officials just yet were set to get P50,000, while chief superintendents (one-star police generals) were set to get P100,000. Dela Rosa, who is the PNP's only four-star general, would have gotten P400,000, he joked.
Show me the money
The PNP chief did not say whether the "gift" was cancelled because of the backlash, but conceded: "I don't want to preempt Malacañang. Siguro sabi nila, hintay-hintay lang kayo maghanap kami ng pera. 'Yun ang sabi nila. Sabi ko... sabi ng ibang opisyal... bakit kasi, sayang, sayang." (I guess they said, just wait, we'll find money. That's what they said. I told myself, other officials said… why did this have to happen? Such a waste.)
Dela Rosa also insisted his Tuesday announcement wasn't just a cover-up of Monday's announcement and the subsequent backlash.
"Maghanap sila kung saan sila maghanap ng pera. Sabi ng Malacañang, walang pera (They can try to look for the money. Malacañang itself said there's no money)," the PNP chief said.
Several younger cops – junior commissioned officers or non-commissioned officers – supposedly felt uneasy over the announced "cash gifts," pointing out that they've been the ones who've flexed the most muscle in Duterte's war on drugs.
But some police officials themselves were skeptical from the get-go. "Nowadays, you don't really know what's real or not," said one police general, referring to Dela Rosa's often very public announcements.
Another police official, who was not in Camp Crame when the surprise announcement was made, said he only found out about the "gift" through the news.
Dela Rosa said he was only informed of the "cash gifts" Monday morning, just before their Christmas party. During his impromptu speech, Dela Rosa had instructed the PNP's "key officials" to drop by his office to pick up their cash gifts.
The PNP chief did not say who from Malacañang first told him about the "cash gifts," referring to the Palace person as a "trabahante (staff member)."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156083-pnp-dela-rosa-no-cash-gifts-maybe-rice-duterte-malacanang
The PNP chief takes back an earlier announcement about 'cash gifts' from the Palace meant for key police officials. The money never came, he says.
WHOOPS? PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa says the 'cash gifts' for top police officials from the Palace won't push through. File photo by Joel Liporada/Rappler
A little over 24 hours after he first announced "cash gifts" for top police officials from no less than President Rodrigo Duterte, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the money "did not come."
"'Yung bonus na talagang bonus na nakalagay sa suweldo namin, naibigay na iyon. Pero 'yung kahapon na inannounce ko, supposed to be naghintay kami kahapon kaso nung nag-press con tayo, maraming nagtatanong kung saan ang source, saan galing, siguro na-discourage ang Malacañang magbigay hanggang ginabi na lang, walang dumating," Dela Rosa said on Tuesday, December 20, during a chance interview in Camp Crame. (The bonus that's part of our salaries, that's already been released. But what I announced yesterday, we were supposed to wait for it but when I had that press conference, a lot of you were asking about the source of the funds, where it came from. Malacañang, I suppose, was discouraged. We waited until evening but the cash gifts never came.)
During the PNP National Headquarters Christmas party in Camp Crame, Dela Rosa announced a P50,000 to P400,000 "cash gift" from Duterte to top officials in the PNP – the Command Group, the directorates, down to the regional and provincial offices.
There are 18 regional offices in the PNP, which supervise the country's 81 provinces. At the PNP headquarters, there are at least 12 directorates and 23 operational and administrative support units.
"Kaya sabi nila baka before mag New Year or what baka bigyan na lang kami ng isang sakong bigas (So the Palace said maybe before New Year we might each be given a sack of rice)," added Dela Rosa.
Immediately after Dela Rosa's impromptu announcement, the PNP and the Palace had received backlash over the "cash gifts."
Senior officers who weren't "star-ranked" officials just yet were set to get P50,000, while chief superintendents (one-star police generals) were set to get P100,000. Dela Rosa, who is the PNP's only four-star general, would have gotten P400,000, he joked.
Show me the money
The PNP chief did not say whether the "gift" was cancelled because of the backlash, but conceded: "I don't want to preempt Malacañang. Siguro sabi nila, hintay-hintay lang kayo maghanap kami ng pera. 'Yun ang sabi nila. Sabi ko... sabi ng ibang opisyal... bakit kasi, sayang, sayang." (I guess they said, just wait, we'll find money. That's what they said. I told myself, other officials said… why did this have to happen? Such a waste.)
Dela Rosa also insisted his Tuesday announcement wasn't just a cover-up of Monday's announcement and the subsequent backlash.
"Maghanap sila kung saan sila maghanap ng pera. Sabi ng Malacañang, walang pera (They can try to look for the money. Malacañang itself said there's no money)," the PNP chief said.
Several younger cops – junior commissioned officers or non-commissioned officers – supposedly felt uneasy over the announced "cash gifts," pointing out that they've been the ones who've flexed the most muscle in Duterte's war on drugs.
But some police officials themselves were skeptical from the get-go. "Nowadays, you don't really know what's real or not," said one police general, referring to Dela Rosa's often very public announcements.
Another police official, who was not in Camp Crame when the surprise announcement was made, said he only found out about the "gift" through the news.
Dela Rosa said he was only informed of the "cash gifts" Monday morning, just before their Christmas party. During his impromptu speech, Dela Rosa had instructed the PNP's "key officials" to drop by his office to pick up their cash gifts.
The PNP chief did not say who from Malacañang first told him about the "cash gifts," referring to the Palace person as a "trabahante (staff member)."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156083-pnp-dela-rosa-no-cash-gifts-maybe-rice-duterte-malacanang
Duterte rants about U.S. 'insult' in front of new envoy
From Rappler (Dec 20): Duterte rants about U.S. 'insult' in front of new envoy
New US Ambassador Sung Kim manages to keep a straight face during Duterte's tirade
New US Ambassador Sung Kim manages to keep a straight face during Duterte's tirade
ON THE SPOT. US Ambassador Sung Kim listens to President Rodrigo Duterte's speech during a Go Negosyo Christmas Town Hall on December 19, 2016. Screenshot from RTVM
President Rodrigo Duterte ranted about the non-renewal of a United States aid package in front of new US Ambassador Sung Kim.
"Millennium Challenge? $400 million? China is going to release to me $15 billion. Go home. I do not need your aid," said Duterte on Monday, December 19, during a Go Negosyo Christmas Town Hall for peace and development in Sulu held at the Palace.
He was referring to the aid package from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a US aid-giving body. MCC's board of directors recently decided not to award the Philippines a new grant. (READ: US stops aid package to PH over rights concerns)
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156026-duterte-millennium-challenge-united-states-ambassador
Ambassador Kim sat in the front row of Duterte's audience.
"To hear them say we will cut your aid if this thing happens again [inaudible]. Shut up. I do not need your assistance," continued Duterte.
He seemed to notice Kim was in the audience because he said after a while: "When you are dealing with Asians, with due respect to the ambassador of the US, you're dealing with Asians, be careful of your language. You cannot do that to the Japanese and to the Koreans, they'll feel insulted."
Kim is Korean by descent and was born in Seoul, South Korea.
Straight face
Awkwardly, video cameras broadcasting footage of the event in large white screens cut to Kim's face during this part of Duterte's speech.
Kim managed to keep a straight face.
"It is actually an insult as well so I hope we can undertand each other here," said Duterte.
He repeated his suggestion that the US air its concerns to the United Nations which can then conduct an investigation into reports of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines.
"Why do we have to say we will cut your aid? Just say outright, please stop or this. We are members of the United Nations correct? You guys put your complaint there for the violations then whatever happens there, the human rights commission shall conduct an investigation," said Duterte.
The UN, through UN special rapporteur on summary killings Agnes Callamard already hopes to conduct such an investigation. But Callamard said she could not comply with Duterte's conditions for the probe, in particular his demand for her to respond to his questions under oath and during a public forum.
The President echoed the sentiments of his economic advisers in downplaying the impact of MCC's non-renewed aid on the Philippines.
He said China is ready to offer $15 billion in assistance. Duterte did not elaborate where this aid from China will go to.
Days ago, Duterte seemed to take a liking to Kim, in contrast to the previous US Ambassador Philip Goldberg.
"They have a very good ambassador of Korean descent. He’s very courteous," said the President during a Davao City press conference on December 17.
In comparison, Duterte was openly hostile to Goldberg whom he called a "homosexual" who "irritates" him.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156026-duterte-millennium-challenge-united-states-ambassador
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