From the Asia-Pacific Policy Society--Policy Forum (Dec 21): An indecisive strongman (By
Jeroen Adam)
Improvisation and uncertainty characterise Duterte’s approach to peace in the Southern Philippines
Despite big expectations that his presidency would see a final peace deal with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Duterte’s confused policy approach looks set to kick the can further down the road, Jeroen Adam writes.
“We will strive to have a permanent and lasting peace before my term ends. That is my goal, that is my dream.” This dream is probably not the sort of thing one would immediately associate with Rodrigo Duterte; yet, this is exactly what the Philippine President proclaimed in his first State of the Union Address in June 2016. While most debates on the Duterte presidency have been preoccupied by his aggressive war on drugs, it tends to be forgotten that the commitment to reach a binding peace agreement with Muslim (and communist) rebels in the restive Southern island of Mindanao has always been one of his central rallying points.
This became clear after a visit in late February 2016 to the city of Cotabato and a nearby MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) camp as part of his presidential campaign. With his pledge to address the historical injustices committed against the Muslim minority and his ‘revelation’ that his grandmother was a Muslim, his visit struck a sensitive chord in a region that was known to be a stronghold for the oppositionist Liberal Party.
The visit has to be understood against a background of profound disappointment among large parts of the Philippine Muslim community: disappointment that a signed peace agreement between the MILF and the Philippine government had not been transformed into a binding legal framework during the Aquino presidency; and disappointment that throughout the presidential campaign, hardly any substantive debate took place about the future direction of these peace negotiations.
The only one seriously wanting to tackle these issues seemed to be Duterte, making him the number one presidential candidate for the majority of Muslims in the region. It is thus no coincidence that his presidential election in May 2016 was met with enthusiasm among the MILF and its leadership. MILF chairman Murad called Duterte “a true son of Mindanao” and stated that the election of Duterte as president of the Philippines would “carry with it hopes and aspirations for peace and justice in Mindanao.”
More than half a year after the public proclamation of this dream for permanent and lasting peace, what are the prospects for a more sustainable peace in Muslim Mindanao? The short answer is that the prospects are diminishing fast. A number of explanations need to be mentioned here. The first one concerns the appointment of a range of people from the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (2001-2010) within the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). Apart from a personal aversion that plays out between some of the key players within the MILF and OPAPP, the perceived lack of continuity with the administration of Benigno Aquino III, who served between Arroyo and Duterte, was of particular concern to the MILF.
Apart from these tensions, a much bigger concern is that it became increasingly clear that there is no coherent and strategic policy framework in terms of peace and conflict. The promise of a shift towards federalism, which was always one of the leading mantras of Duterte’s campaign, has been met with considerable scepticism among the MILF. Apart from the fact that it remains very opaque how this federal future will ultimately look, a real fear exists that the drive for federalism will only further delay any implementation of a final peace agreement.
This lack of coherent policy can also be witnessed in the position the administration is taking towards the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front), which was the precursor to the MILF. The government signed a final peace agreement with the MNLF in 1997, however a lot of issues remain unsolved, including the position of their former chairman Nur Misuari, a deeply-divisive figure for his alleged role in an armed attack on the city of Zamboanga in September 2013, resulting in the death of over 200 people. Duterte, who considers Nur Misuari a close friend, always insisted that the MNLF and Misuari would be included in the ongoing peace talks with the MILF.
Misuari’s refusal to sit at the same table as the MILF resulted in the establishment of a second and new peace panel in November 2016. How these two processes relate to each other is unclear. The press statement by Jess Dureza, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, that the two different peace tracks “will somehow converge in Congress without converging in the process” bears little confidence in this regard. Quite predictably, this statement opened up a lot of questions among NGOs involved in the peace process. In the meantime, Duterte’s recent threat to start engaging in a full-scale war with some ‘renegade’ MILF commanders only added more anxiety and uncertainty.
In contrast to the ‘no-nonsense’ style of communication and strongman image, the policies that the Duterte administration is pursuing in Muslim Mindanao are marked by improvisation and vagueness. As the honeymoon period of the presidency is almost over, more and more people are voicing their doubt about his government’s capacity to deal seriously with the challenges ahead. Once again, any prospect for a more sustainable peace in the region seems only a distant dream.
http://www.policyforum.net/an-indecisive-strongman/
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Philippines May Share Offshore Oil with China
From the Maritime Executive (Dec 20): Philippines May Share Offshore Oil with China
In recent days, the government of the Philippines has struggled to issue a coherent policy on economic cooperation with China in the South China Sea. On Monday, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte said that if there are oil and gas deposits near Scarborough Shoal, a disputed land feature, the Philippines and China should develop them jointly and "just split" the proceeds. The day after Duterte's comments, his spokesman said that there was "no government policy" on sharing maritime resources with China.
China seized Scarborough Shoal in 2012, and it has built out a string of artificial islands in the nearby Spratly chain over the years since. In June, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague broadly rejected China's maritime claims in the South China Sea, including claims to resources within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Duterte has downplayed the ruling since he came to power in June, and instead he has placed an emphasis on improving relations with China. His comments on Monday appeared to be a further extension of that policy, but on Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella walked back Duterte's statements.
"There's no government policy regarding that matter at this stage," Abella said. "I suppose what he is referring to may be the possibility of business-to-business partnerships." He added that Duterte's government was not relinquishing the Philippines' rights under the Permanent Court of Arbitration's ruling. "These are our properties, technically," Abella said.
Duterte’s administration has explained the shift away from confrontation by pointing out that the Philippines lacks the military power to force China to abandon its claims. “We cannot stop China at this point in time and say ‘Do not put that up.’ We will continue to pursue peaceful means at which all of these can be prevented [sic],” said Philippine foreign minister Perfecto Yasay during a recent visit to Singapore. China has a large naval presence in the South China Sea, and recent satellite imagery shows that it has been installing advanced air defense systems on its holdings in the Spratly Islands.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/duterte-may-or-may-not-share-offshore-oil-with-china
In recent days, the government of the Philippines has struggled to issue a coherent policy on economic cooperation with China in the South China Sea. On Monday, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte said that if there are oil and gas deposits near Scarborough Shoal, a disputed land feature, the Philippines and China should develop them jointly and "just split" the proceeds. The day after Duterte's comments, his spokesman said that there was "no government policy" on sharing maritime resources with China.
China seized Scarborough Shoal in 2012, and it has built out a string of artificial islands in the nearby Spratly chain over the years since. In June, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague broadly rejected China's maritime claims in the South China Sea, including claims to resources within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Duterte has downplayed the ruling since he came to power in June, and instead he has placed an emphasis on improving relations with China. His comments on Monday appeared to be a further extension of that policy, but on Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella walked back Duterte's statements.
"There's no government policy regarding that matter at this stage," Abella said. "I suppose what he is referring to may be the possibility of business-to-business partnerships." He added that Duterte's government was not relinquishing the Philippines' rights under the Permanent Court of Arbitration's ruling. "These are our properties, technically," Abella said.
Duterte’s administration has explained the shift away from confrontation by pointing out that the Philippines lacks the military power to force China to abandon its claims. “We cannot stop China at this point in time and say ‘Do not put that up.’ We will continue to pursue peaceful means at which all of these can be prevented [sic],” said Philippine foreign minister Perfecto Yasay during a recent visit to Singapore. China has a large naval presence in the South China Sea, and recent satellite imagery shows that it has been installing advanced air defense systems on its holdings in the Spratly Islands.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/duterte-may-or-may-not-share-offshore-oil-with-china
The Spratly Islands in Focus
From STRATFOR (Dec 20): The Spratly Islands in Focus
Vietnam's military installations and garrisons have dotted the features of the Spratly archipelago — including the Southwest Cay, Sin Cowe Island and Spratly Island itself — for some time. But over the past two years, Vietnam has redoubled its efforts to reclaim and build up these islets and reefs. Once these projects are finished, the island will be able to accommodate most of the Vietnamese air force's aircraft. Meanwhile, dredging work has been spotted at the nearby Ladd Reef that could be designed to provide shelter for Vietnamese vessels inside the lagoon. Unconfirmed reports indicated that Vietnam has positioned rocket artillery in the island chain as well.
The new features are no match for China's aggressive buildup in the South China Sea, but they are notable for their position. Located on the sea's southwestern rim, Spratly Island stands apart from most of the other islets in the Spratly archipelago, boasting a comparatively large exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of its own. It also serves as Vietnam's key military outpost in the Spratly island chain. But perhaps just as important, Spratly Island rests on the western edge of the nine-dash line that China insists delineates its South China Sea holdings. Should Vietnam's claim to the island be verified, it could invalidate the rest of the nine-dash line boundary. Hanoi is not taking any chances, and it hopes that bolstering its military posture will help to ward off any further Chinese advances.
Vietnam's moves come at a time of relative calm in the South China Sea dispute. The Philippines and Malaysia have acquiesced to China's request to handle territorial spats through its preferred mechanism: diplomatic negotiations and joint arrangements that align with Beijing's interests. Though it remains to be seen whether the trend will continue, China has gradually gained the tactical upper hand by modernizing its military, developing its islands and acquiring new deep-sea drilling technology. But China has also experienced strategic setbacks, not least of which was a ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that negated Beijing's competing claims with the Philippines in the South China Sea. As a result, China seems to have abandoned the outright use of force for a subtler two-track strategy: Using economic and tactical concessions to entice cooperation from some claimants while maintaining pressure against more vocal opponents with limited punitive measures.
Though some countries have continued to expand their defense ties with other powers, they have relented in their refusal to settle disputes through bilateral talks with China. Vietnam, however, has proved the exception. China sees Vietnam's land reclamation efforts as a provocation, but it has neither the legal grounds nor the appetite to militarily challenge it. Nevertheless, it has the means to pressure Vietnam or undermine Hanoi's territorial claims, should it so choose.
https://www.stratfor.com/image/spratly-islands-focus
Vietnam's military installations and garrisons have dotted the features of the Spratly archipelago — including the Southwest Cay, Sin Cowe Island and Spratly Island itself — for some time. But over the past two years, Vietnam has redoubled its efforts to reclaim and build up these islets and reefs. Once these projects are finished, the island will be able to accommodate most of the Vietnamese air force's aircraft. Meanwhile, dredging work has been spotted at the nearby Ladd Reef that could be designed to provide shelter for Vietnamese vessels inside the lagoon. Unconfirmed reports indicated that Vietnam has positioned rocket artillery in the island chain as well.
The new features are no match for China's aggressive buildup in the South China Sea, but they are notable for their position. Located on the sea's southwestern rim, Spratly Island stands apart from most of the other islets in the Spratly archipelago, boasting a comparatively large exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of its own. It also serves as Vietnam's key military outpost in the Spratly island chain. But perhaps just as important, Spratly Island rests on the western edge of the nine-dash line that China insists delineates its South China Sea holdings. Should Vietnam's claim to the island be verified, it could invalidate the rest of the nine-dash line boundary. Hanoi is not taking any chances, and it hopes that bolstering its military posture will help to ward off any further Chinese advances.
Vietnam's moves come at a time of relative calm in the South China Sea dispute. The Philippines and Malaysia have acquiesced to China's request to handle territorial spats through its preferred mechanism: diplomatic negotiations and joint arrangements that align with Beijing's interests. Though it remains to be seen whether the trend will continue, China has gradually gained the tactical upper hand by modernizing its military, developing its islands and acquiring new deep-sea drilling technology. But China has also experienced strategic setbacks, not least of which was a ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that negated Beijing's competing claims with the Philippines in the South China Sea. As a result, China seems to have abandoned the outright use of force for a subtler two-track strategy: Using economic and tactical concessions to entice cooperation from some claimants while maintaining pressure against more vocal opponents with limited punitive measures.
Though some countries have continued to expand their defense ties with other powers, they have relented in their refusal to settle disputes through bilateral talks with China. Vietnam, however, has proved the exception. China sees Vietnam's land reclamation efforts as a provocation, but it has neither the legal grounds nor the appetite to militarily challenge it. Nevertheless, it has the means to pressure Vietnam or undermine Hanoi's territorial claims, should it so choose.
https://www.stratfor.com/image/spratly-islands-focus
Military official who led intel work on Davao blast among 18 new AFP awardees
From GMA News (Dec 21): Military official who led intel work on Davao blast among 18 new AFP awardees
The military official who led a joint intelligence operation against the suspects in the bombing at a Davao night market in September was one of the 18 awardees during the 81st anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday afternoon.
President Rodrigo Duterte, together with former Presidents Fidel Ramos and, incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, handed the awards.
Maj. Dennis G. Guillermo was given an Outstanding Achievement Medal for services rendered as Project Officer of the joint intelligence operation that resulted in the successful neutralization of three members of Maute and Tokboy Groups responsible in the Davao City Market bombing.
The operation led to the recovery of high-powered firearms and raw materials for making improvised explosive devices.
Arrested in October were suspects TJ Tagadaya Macabalang, the alleged triggerman who made the phone call that detonated the improvised explosive device; Wendel Apostol Facturan, alleged bomb courier who sat on the chair, put the backpack containing the IED in the market and Musali Mustapha, who took a phone video of the incident.
Meanwhile, the other awards given by the AFP were:
The military official who led a joint intelligence operation against the suspects in the bombing at a Davao night market in September was one of the 18 awardees during the 81st anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday afternoon.
President Rodrigo Duterte, together with former Presidents Fidel Ramos and, incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, handed the awards.
Maj. Dennis G. Guillermo was given an Outstanding Achievement Medal for services rendered as Project Officer of the joint intelligence operation that resulted in the successful neutralization of three members of Maute and Tokboy Groups responsible in the Davao City Market bombing.
The operation led to the recovery of high-powered firearms and raw materials for making improvised explosive devices.
Arrested in October were suspects TJ Tagadaya Macabalang, the alleged triggerman who made the phone call that detonated the improvised explosive device; Wendel Apostol Facturan, alleged bomb courier who sat on the chair, put the backpack containing the IED in the market and Musali Mustapha, who took a phone video of the incident.
Meanwhile, the other awards given by the AFP were:
- Outstanding Achievement Medal: Ret. Col. Nestor Bautista — For service rendered as host to the Philippine-Australia Defense Cooperation Program scholars that comprised 535 officers, enlisted personnel, cadets and civilian employees; they underwent the Australian Familiarization Course at Royal Australian Air Force Base in Laverton from March 28, 2005 to March 19, 2016;
- Distinguished Conduct Star: Lt. JG Reginald Balidoc — For acts of courage in the face of an armed enemy during an encounter against more or less 50 foreign and local terrorist organization members under Omarkhayam and Abdullah Maute at the Ragayan, Butig, Lanao Del Sur;
- Gold Cross Medal: 1Lt. Jay Maravilla — For gallantry shown during an encounter against more or less 100 fully armed Abu Sayyaf Group involved in several high-profile kidnappings at Sitio Makaita, Brgy. Bungkaong, Patikul, Sulu;
- Gold Cross Medal: Cpl. Felipe Barbadillo — For gallantry shown as the Lead Sniper of Special Operations Platoon of Marine Battalion Landing Team 6; the group was tasked to neutralize the armed group of Jaafar Sabiwang Maguid, a local terrorist believed to be linked with the foreign terrorist group ISIS at Sinapingan, Brgy. Butril, Palimbang, Sultan Kudara;
- Gawad sa Kaunlaran: Maj. Eduardo Sia-Ed — For the successful conduct of Community Relations activities and other forms of humanitarian support for the people of Itbayat Island, Batanes Province;
- Bronze Cross Medal: Maj. Mark Lester Gannaban — For acts of heroism as pilot of UH-ID 8364 aircraft deployed at Old Airport, Sasa, Davao City; he performed Aerial Forest Fire Fight, medical evacuation, aerial survey and resupply missions during the Mr. Apo Forest Fire incident on March 28 to April 11, 2016;
- Bronze Cross Medal: TSg. Ritche Navales — For risking his life as a member of the Joint Special Operations Unit 2, AFP Joint Special Operations Group during the Unit’s deployment for a major military combat operations against Maute terrorist group in Butig, Lanao Del Sur;
- Kagitingan sa Barangay (Maginoo): CAA Sandy P. Sentelices — For courage shown during successive encounters in Camarines Sur, inflicting heavy casualties to the enemy and helping in the recovery of war materials;
- AFP Enlisted Personnel of the Year: TSg Adriano Reginales Jr. — For possessing the good characteristics of an Enlisted Personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines;
- AFP Model Civilian Supervisor of the Year: Marvinea Fernandez, GHQ-AFPMC — For outstanding performance as Civilian Supervisor of the AFP;
- AFP Model Civilian Employee of the Year: Virginia De Luna, PA — For outstanding performance of duties as Civilian Employee of the AFP;
- AFP ROTC Male Cadet of the Year: Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Quibal, 1CL — For outstanding performance of duties as Corps Commander, 267th Naval Reserve Officer’s Training Corps Unit, De La Salle University–Dasmariñas, Cavite;
- AFP ROTC Female Cadete of the Year: Cadet Colonel Ivy A. Baring, 1CL — For outstanding performance of duties as Corps Commander of the Air Force ROTC Unit of Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga;
- AFP Bayanihan Award: Erlinda Quiato, head, Municipal Social Welfare and Development, Bataraza, Palawan — For the successful implementation of the AFP’s IPSP “Bayanihan” as a civilian stakeholder and head of MSWD Bataraza, Palawan;
- AFP Bayanihan Award: Psalm 1 Victory Foundation, Angeles, Pampanga — For service rendered in various civil affairs activities of the AFP;
- AFP Bayanihan Award: Ariel Hernandez, chairman, 4ID Multi-Sector Advisory Board — For being an active partner in community-related services in Mindanao;
- AFP Bayanihan Award: Team Go Share — For promoting peace and development, including addressing of health problems in communities of Northern Luzon, and for local fishermen on the safety of life at sea.
Suspected NPA rebels torch South Cotabato packing plan
From ABS-CBN (Dec 22): Suspected NPA rebels torch South Cotabato packing plan
SOUTH COTABATO - A packing plant owned by DOLE Stanfilco Banana Plantation in Sitio Sibuyon, Barangay Canahay in Surallah, South Cotabato, was set on fire by armed men who identified themselves as members of the New People's Army (NPA) early Monday night.
Cardboard and plastic used for packing bananas, tables, and a portion of the ceiling of the plant were burned.
According to investigation, eight men riding in three motorcycles arrived at the plant and pointed their guns at the security guard.
After introducing themselves as members of the NPA, they poured diesel on a stack of cardboard and plastic and set it on fire.
“Matigas daw ang kumpanya, so 'yun lang ang sinabi bago nila sindihan yung mga karton at yung mga plastic,” said police Chief Insp. Joel Fuerte, the chief of Surallah Police Station. (They said the company won't give in to their demands, before they set fire to the place.)
No one was reportedly hurt in the incident, but the total damage was estimated at around P10,000.
The police said they cannot say for certain whether the NPA is behind the attack.
“Hindi lang natin masigurado kung sila pa rin ang grupo or baka yung may mga labor problem iyung company,” said police Senior Supt. Franklin Alvero, the provincial director of South Cotabato Police. (We are not sure if they are the same group of the company might have labor problems.)
The incident took place in a far-flung area, police said.
According to Alvero, since last month, more than 10 heavy equipment and four buses were burned by assailants claiming to be NPA rebels.
Police have placed marshals in buses to ensure the security of passengers and vehicles.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/21/16/suspected-npa-rebels-torch-south-cotabato-packing-plant
Cardboard and plastic used for packing bananas, tables, and a portion of the ceiling of the plant were burned.
According to investigation, eight men riding in three motorcycles arrived at the plant and pointed their guns at the security guard.
After introducing themselves as members of the NPA, they poured diesel on a stack of cardboard and plastic and set it on fire.
“Matigas daw ang kumpanya, so 'yun lang ang sinabi bago nila sindihan yung mga karton at yung mga plastic,” said police Chief Insp. Joel Fuerte, the chief of Surallah Police Station. (They said the company won't give in to their demands, before they set fire to the place.)
No one was reportedly hurt in the incident, but the total damage was estimated at around P10,000.
The police said they cannot say for certain whether the NPA is behind the attack.
“Hindi lang natin masigurado kung sila pa rin ang grupo or baka yung may mga labor problem iyung company,” said police Senior Supt. Franklin Alvero, the provincial director of South Cotabato Police. (We are not sure if they are the same group of the company might have labor problems.)
The incident took place in a far-flung area, police said.
According to Alvero, since last month, more than 10 heavy equipment and four buses were burned by assailants claiming to be NPA rebels.
Police have placed marshals in buses to ensure the security of passengers and vehicles.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/21/16/suspected-npa-rebels-torch-south-cotabato-packing-plant
Portuguese Navy warships offered to Philippine Navy
From Update.Ph (Dec 21): Portuguese Navy warships offered to Philippine Navy
Portuguese Navy warships were offered to the Philippine Navy and other countries, MaxDefense Philippines said in its social networking page today. These warships, according to Max Defense, are under the Joao Coutinho and Baptista de Andrade classes of corvettes.
“The ships were found to be in very good condition, with the Joao Coutinho-class in better condition than the Baptista de Andrade-class despite being older, and is even better than the Del Pilar-class frigates obtained from the US,” MaxDefense added.
The recommendation, an initial order of one or two Joao Coutinho-class corvettes with the goal of acquiring at least three units, will be forwarded to Department of National Defense for processing and approval.
A total of six Joao Coutinho-class corvettes entered the Portuguese Navy from 1970 to 1971, and were decommissioned last year.
MaxDefense said these warships seems to be filling the gap while the Navy’s Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel (MPPV) project is in progress. This MPPV project aims to acquire 6 to 9 warships to replace the Navy’s World War 2-era warships.
“To those claiming that this is a false report, better check your sources again. MaxDefense won’t be posting this if there is no such project. Do not underestimate our sources,” MaxDefense noted.
MaxDefense Philippines, is being managed by Max Montero, an Australia-based defense analyst and a former naval reservist officer in the Philippine Navy. A social networking page and site are being maintained at Facebook.com/Maxdefense and MaxDefense.blogspot.com, respectively.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/portuguese-navy-warships-offered-to-philippine-navy/12406
Portuguese Navy warships were offered to the Philippine Navy and other countries, MaxDefense Philippines said in its social networking page today. These warships, according to Max Defense, are under the Joao Coutinho and Baptista de Andrade classes of corvettes.
MaxDefense added that Philippine Navy inspectors who participated in Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) recommended to Navy headquarters to acquire warships in the Joao Coutinho-class.
The recommendation, an initial order of one or two Joao Coutinho-class corvettes with the goal of acquiring at least three units, will be forwarded to Department of National Defense for processing and approval.
A total of six Joao Coutinho-class corvettes entered the Portuguese Navy from 1970 to 1971, and were decommissioned last year.
MaxDefense said these warships seems to be filling the gap while the Navy’s Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel (MPPV) project is in progress. This MPPV project aims to acquire 6 to 9 warships to replace the Navy’s World War 2-era warships.
“To those claiming that this is a false report, better check your sources again. MaxDefense won’t be posting this if there is no such project. Do not underestimate our sources,” MaxDefense noted.
MaxDefense Philippines, is being managed by Max Montero, an Australia-based defense analyst and a former naval reservist officer in the Philippine Navy. A social networking page and site are being maintained at Facebook.com/Maxdefense and MaxDefense.blogspot.com, respectively.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/portuguese-navy-warships-offered-to-philippine-navy/12406
Philippine Navy inspectors recommend acquisition of Portuguese corvettes – report
From Update.Ph (Dec 21): Philippine Navy inspectors recommend acquisition of Portuguese corvettes – report
Philippine Navy inspectors who participated in Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) recommended to Philippine Navy headquarters the acquisition Portuguese Navy Joao Coutinho-class corvettes, MaxDefense said in a post today. The Portuguese Navy reportedly offered its decommissioned Joao Coutinho and Baptista de Andrade classes of corvettes to Philippines and other countries.
“The ships were found to be in very good condition, with the Joao Coutinho-class in better condition than the Baptista de Andrade-class despite being older, and is even better than the Del Pilar-class frigates obtained from the US,” MaxDefense said.
A total of six Joao Coutinho-class corvettes entered the Portuguese Navy from 1970 to 1971, and were decommissioned last year.
MaxDefense said these warships seems to be filling the gap while the Navy’s Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel (MPPV) project is in progress. This MPPV project aims to acquire 6 to 9 warships to replace the Navy’s World War 2-era warships.
“To those claiming that this is a false report, better check your sources again. MaxDefense won’t be posting this if there is no such project. Do not underestimate our sources,” MaxDefense noted.
MaxDefense Philippines, is being managed by Max Montero, an Australia-based defense analyst and a former naval reservist officer in the Philippine Navy. A social networking page and site are being maintained at Facebook.com/Maxdefense and MaxDefense.blogspot.com, respectively.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/philippine-navy-inspectors-recommend-acquisition-of-portuguese-corvettes-report/12414
Philippine Navy inspectors who participated in Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) recommended to Philippine Navy headquarters the acquisition Portuguese Navy Joao Coutinho-class corvettes, MaxDefense said in a post today. The Portuguese Navy reportedly offered its decommissioned Joao Coutinho and Baptista de Andrade classes of corvettes to Philippines and other countries.
The recommendation, an initial order of one or two Joao Coutinho-class corvettes with the goal of acquiring at least three units, will be forwarded to Department of National Defense for final say.
A total of six Joao Coutinho-class corvettes entered the Portuguese Navy from 1970 to 1971, and were decommissioned last year.
MaxDefense said these warships seems to be filling the gap while the Navy’s Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel (MPPV) project is in progress. This MPPV project aims to acquire 6 to 9 warships to replace the Navy’s World War 2-era warships.
“To those claiming that this is a false report, better check your sources again. MaxDefense won’t be posting this if there is no such project. Do not underestimate our sources,” MaxDefense noted.
MaxDefense Philippines, is being managed by Max Montero, an Australia-based defense analyst and a former naval reservist officer in the Philippine Navy. A social networking page and site are being maintained at Facebook.com/Maxdefense and MaxDefense.blogspot.com, respectively.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/philippine-navy-inspectors-recommend-acquisition-of-portuguese-corvettes-report/12414
New Japan-made response vessel to enter Coast Guard service tomorrow
From Update.Ph (Dec 21): New Japan-made response vessel to enter Coast Guard service tomorrow
The Philippine Coast Guard will commission to service the Japan-made Parola-class multi-role response vessel BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4401) tomorrow, December 22 at around 9 am. She is the second of ten Parola-class vessel ordered from Japan Marine United under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project for the Philippine Coast Guard Phase 1 (MSCIP).
BRP Tubbataha, the first Parola-class vessel was delivered in August 2016, deliveries are expected every quarter until completion of 10 units in 2018.
Coast Guard said eight (8) more brand new 44-meter MRRV’s will be built and will also be named after the primary lighthouses in the country to denote its significance as one of the navigational aids in the maritime industry.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/new-japan-made-response-vessel-to-enter-coast-guard-service-tomorrow/12417
The Philippine Coast Guard will commission to service the Japan-made Parola-class multi-role response vessel BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4401) tomorrow, December 22 at around 9 am. She is the second of ten Parola-class vessel ordered from Japan Marine United under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project for the Philippine Coast Guard Phase 1 (MSCIP).
Department of Transportation Arthur Tugade Jr. will attend the Commissioning Ceremony as guest of honor at the Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard, Pier 15, South Harbor,Port Area, Manila.
Coast Guard said eight (8) more brand new 44-meter MRRV’s will be built and will also be named after the primary lighthouses in the country to denote its significance as one of the navigational aids in the maritime industry.
http://www.update.ph/2016/12/new-japan-made-response-vessel-to-enter-coast-guard-service-tomorrow/12417
Duterte to NPA: Come down, visit your families on Christmas
From Rappler (Dec 21): Duterte to NPA: Come down, visit your families on Christmas
(UPDATED) President Rodrigo Duterte assures the communist rebels that they will not be arrested
President Rodrigo Duterte, in a televised speech at the military headquarters, invited fighters of the communist New People's Army (NPA) to come down from their camps in the mountains and visit their families on Christmas Day.
(UPDATED) President Rodrigo Duterte assures the communist rebels that they will not be arrested
AFP ANNIVERSARY. President Rodrigo Duterte leads the celebration of the Philippine military's 81st anniversary. Rappler photo
President Rodrigo Duterte, in a televised speech at the military headquarters, invited fighters of the communist New People's Army (NPA) to come down from their camps in the mountains and visit their families on Christmas Day.
"Leave your arms where they are and you can come down sa siyudad (to the cities), wherever you live. You visit your family," Duterte said in an extemporaneous speech during the celebration of the 81st anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday, December 21.
"Nakakatamad makipag-away ng Pasko (It's tiring to be fighting on Christmas)," he added.
Duterte assured the NPA combatants they would not be arrested.
"I guarantee you na walang aresto (no arrests), walang (no) oppression. Kung magsalubong kayo ng sundalo ng Pilipinas – sundalo ko – magkamay lang kayo (If you meet a Filipino soldier – my soldier – shake each other's hands). O kapag ayaw mo, huwag mo na lang tignan (If you don't want to do that, just don't look at them)," said the President.
AFP officials including chief of staff General Eduardo Año clapped as Duterte made these remarks.
The military is also preparing a new counter-insurgency campaign plan that will take into account peace talks with the communist rebels. (READ: Oplan Bayanihan ends as Duterte orders AFP to support NDF peace talks)
Duterte said to the military: "I also commend you for implementing a new campaign plan which is attuned with our government long-term vision of peace described in the AmBisyon Natin 2040."
Details of the new campaign plan were expected to be announced during the anniversary celebration but Colonel Edgard Arevalo, chief of the AFP public affairs office, said it would be presented at another time.
Duterte and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison had spoken on the phone on Monday night, December 19, to advance the peace talks. Their conversation came amid an impasse caused by delays in the release of political prisoners and in the signing of the joint bilateral ceasefire.
The 3rd round of talks will be held in Italy in January.
Formal talks resumed last August, resulting in the declaration of separate unilateral ceasefires by the AFP and the NPA.
Complaints against each other's activities have raised fears that the ceasefires could be broken.
But on Tuesday, December 20, Sison said in a Facebook post that the NPA fighters would not break their ceasefire over the holidays.
Duterte, Joma Sison agree 'peace process must move forward'
From Rappler (Dec 21): Duterte, Joma Sison agree 'peace process must move forward'
'It was a warm conversation between old friends,' says Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella
Malacañang on Wednesday, December 21, disclosed details of the "productive phone conversation" between President Rodrigo Duterte and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison.
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said their conversation on Monday night, December 19, went on until dawn.
"From the sources, it was a warm conversation between old friends, but there were no details, there were no political issues that were covered. However, both agreed that the peace process must move forward," he added.
On Tuesday, December 20, Sison announced in a Facebook post that the unilateral ceasefire declaration of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front "will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays."
The unilateral ceasefires separately declared in August by the military and the NPA have been holding.
Both panels initially aimed to have signed a bilateral ceasefire agreement by October, but communist rebels have stalled talks pending the release of political prisoners. (READ: Duterte sets condition for freeing 130 political prisoners)
The CPP, which is celebrating its 48th founding anniversary on December 26, gave the Duterte administration until January 2017 to fulfill its promise to release all 432 political prisoners or risk rebel attacks.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156178-duterte-joma-sison-peace-process
'It was a warm conversation between old friends,' says Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella
'MOVE FORWARD.' Malacañang says both President Rodrigo Duterte and Communist Party of the Philippines founding chair Jose Maria Sison agree that the peace process must move forward. Duterte file photo by Ace Morandante/Presidential Photo; Sison file photo from http://www.josemariasison.org/
Malacañang on Wednesday, December 21, disclosed details of the "productive phone conversation" between President Rodrigo Duterte and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison.
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said their conversation on Monday night, December 19, went on until dawn.
"From the sources, it was a warm conversation between old friends, but there were no details, there were no political issues that were covered. However, both agreed that the peace process must move forward," he added.
On Tuesday, December 20, Sison announced in a Facebook post that the unilateral ceasefire declaration of the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front "will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays."
The unilateral ceasefires separately declared in August by the military and the NPA have been holding.
Both panels initially aimed to have signed a bilateral ceasefire agreement by October, but communist rebels have stalled talks pending the release of political prisoners. (READ: Duterte sets condition for freeing 130 political prisoners)
The CPP, which is celebrating its 48th founding anniversary on December 26, gave the Duterte administration until January 2017 to fulfill its promise to release all 432 political prisoners or risk rebel attacks.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156178-duterte-joma-sison-peace-process
IN PHOTOS: PH military celebrates 81st anniversary
From Rappler (Dec 21): IN PHOTOS: PH military celebrates 81st anniversary
This year's anniversary theme is 'conquering challenges, harnessing change'
81 YEARS. President Rodrigo Duterte leads the anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday, December 21. Malacañang photo
Philippine military camps nationwide simultaneously held a flag-raising ceremony Wednesday morning, December 21, to begin the celebration of the 81st anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“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 Lieutenant General Eduardo Año said in his anniversary statement.
“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,” Año added.
The celebration culminated in a ceremony led by President Rodrigo Duterte at the Camp Aguinaldo parade grounds Wednesday afternoon. Troops paraded before the commander-in-chief and equipment were displayed.
HONOR GUARDS. Students of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) served as honor guards during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
PMA CLASS 83. Armed Forces chief General Eduardo Año (4th from left), Army chief Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda, Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, and Air Force chief Lieutenant General Edgar Fallorina lead the arrival honors for President Rodrigo Duterte. Malacañang Photo
[Video]
The anniversary celebration was attended by former presidents Fidel Ramos and Gloria Arroyo, former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile who joined the country's former defense chiefs, and former chiefs of staff of the military among others.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua was conspicuously present as various Philippine officials were seen apppproaching him for a chat. US Ambassador Sung Kim was not present at the ceremony. (READ: PH military gets $14-M Christmas grant from China)
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos chats Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua
Outstanding soldiers were also recognized for their accomplishments in the service.
The ceremony was witnessed by living recipients of the Medal of Valor, the highest recognition a soldier can receive in the service, and the dependents of the deceased awardees.
The anniversary celebration has the theme: “Conquering Challenges, Harnessing Change."
It has been a month-long celebration for the AFP. It held the Disaster Responders Challenge and Climate Change Summit on December 2, the National ROTC Summit on December 10, and the AFP @81 Photo Contest on December 20, among other activities.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156177-armed-forces-philippines-anniversary
This year's anniversary theme is 'conquering challenges, harnessing change'
81 YEARS. President Rodrigo Duterte leads the anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday, December 21. Malacañang photo
Philippine military camps nationwide simultaneously held a flag-raising ceremony Wednesday morning, December 21, to begin the celebration of the 81st anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“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 Lieutenant General Eduardo Año said in his anniversary statement.
“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,” Año added.
The celebration culminated in a ceremony led by President Rodrigo Duterte at the Camp Aguinaldo parade grounds Wednesday afternoon. Troops paraded before the commander-in-chief and equipment were displayed.
HONOR GUARDS. Students of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) served as honor guards during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
PMA CLASS 83. Armed Forces chief General Eduardo Año (4th from left), Army chief Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda, Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, and Air Force chief Lieutenant General Edgar Fallorina lead the arrival honors for President Rodrigo Duterte. Malacañang Photo
[Video]
The anniversary celebration was attended by former presidents Fidel Ramos and Gloria Arroyo, former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile who joined the country's former defense chiefs, and former chiefs of staff of the military among others.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua was conspicuously present as various Philippine officials were seen apppproaching him for a chat. US Ambassador Sung Kim was not present at the ceremony. (READ: PH military gets $14-M Christmas grant from China)
Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos chats Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua
Outstanding soldiers were also recognized for their accomplishments in the service.
The ceremony was witnessed by living recipients of the Medal of Valor, the highest recognition a soldier can receive in the service, and the dependents of the deceased awardees.
The anniversary celebration has the theme: “Conquering Challenges, Harnessing Change."
It has been a month-long celebration for the AFP. It held the Disaster Responders Challenge and Climate Change Summit on December 2, the National ROTC Summit on December 10, and the AFP @81 Photo Contest on December 20, among other activities.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156177-armed-forces-philippines-anniversary
LIVE: Armed Forces of the Philippines 81st anniversary
From Rappler (Dec 21): LIVE: Armed Forces of the Philippines 81st anniversary
LIVE: Armed Forces of the Philippines 81st anniversary
MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte attends the anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Watch!
Combat award for Navy officer who fought Maute Group
From Rappler (Dec 21): Combat award for Navy officer who fought Maute Group
Lieutenant Junior Grade Reginald Balidoc of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) is awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
NAVY ELITE OFFICER. LtJg Reginald Balidoc
The Philippine Navy elite officer who led a major operation against the Maute Group in February 2016 received the second highest combat award on Wednesday, December 21, during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Lieutenant Junior Grade Reginald Balidoc, 27, of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS) for leading troops in an encounter against an estimated 50 members of the local terrorist group that has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS).
The encounter with the Maute Group in February resulted in the successful capture of the group's camp in Lanao del Sur. The military said the firefight that Balidoc led in Ragayan in Butig town resulted in heavy casualties on the part of the enemy.
President Rordigo Duterte led the awarding ceremony.
Balidoc's citation reads:
For acts of conspicuous courage and gallantry in the face of an armed enemy during an encounter against more or less 50 Foreign and Local Terrorist Organization members under Omarkhayam and Abdullah Maute at the Ragayan, Butig, Lanao del Sur that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy thereby showcasing extreme stability under fire and keeping up with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
He is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 2011.
Balidoc received the award in the presence of the living recipients of the Medal of Valor award, the highest combat award, and the dependents of the deceased awardees.
The Medal of Valor was last awarded in 2014 to the late Private First Class Ian Pacquit. (WATCH: Soldier killed in Zambo given highest military honor)
On Wednesday, Armed Forces chief General Eduardo Año also announced the increase in the benefits of the Medal of Valor awardees.
– Rappler.com
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156185-combat-award-navy-elite-officer
Lieutenant Junior Grade Reginald Balidoc of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) is awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
NAVY ELITE OFFICER. LtJg Reginald Balidoc
The Philippine Navy elite officer who led a major operation against the Maute Group in February 2016 received the second highest combat award on Wednesday, December 21, during the 81st anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Lieutenant Junior Grade Reginald Balidoc, 27, of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS) for leading troops in an encounter against an estimated 50 members of the local terrorist group that has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS).
The encounter with the Maute Group in February resulted in the successful capture of the group's camp in Lanao del Sur. The military said the firefight that Balidoc led in Ragayan in Butig town resulted in heavy casualties on the part of the enemy.
President Rordigo Duterte led the awarding ceremony.
Balidoc's citation reads:
For acts of conspicuous courage and gallantry in the face of an armed enemy during an encounter against more or less 50 Foreign and Local Terrorist Organization members under Omarkhayam and Abdullah Maute at the Ragayan, Butig, Lanao del Sur that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy thereby showcasing extreme stability under fire and keeping up with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
He is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 2011.
Balidoc received the award in the presence of the living recipients of the Medal of Valor award, the highest combat award, and the dependents of the deceased awardees.
The Medal of Valor was last awarded in 2014 to the late Private First Class Ian Pacquit. (WATCH: Soldier killed in Zambo given highest military honor)
On Wednesday, Armed Forces chief General Eduardo Año also announced the increase in the benefits of the Medal of Valor awardees.
| MEDAL OF VALOR AWARDEES | ||
| PH Army Personnel | ||
| General Paulino Santos | 1935 | Deceased |
| LTC Egmidio Cruz | 1944 | Deceased |
| MGen Mariano Castañeda | 1950 | Deceased |
| Capt Conrad Yap | 1951 | Deceased |
| MSg Francisco Camacho | 1955 | Deceased |
| Cpl Weene Martillana | 1955 | Deceased |
| Maj Ferdinand Marcos | 1958 | Deceased |
| SSg Miguel Pastolero | 1964 | Deceased |
| Cpl Bienvenido Fajemolin | 1980 | Alive |
| 1Lt Hilario Estrella | 1987 | Alive |
| Sgt Francisco Granfil | 1989 | Alive |
| Pfc Robert Salvador | 1990 | Alive |
| Cpt Arturo Ortiz | 1990 | Alive |
| 2Lt Bartolome Vicente Bacarro | 1991 | Alive |
| Cpl Romualdo Rubi | 1991 | Alive |
| 2Lt Jose Bandong | 1992 | Deceased |
| Ssg Roy Cuenca | 1992 | Alive |
| Cpt Cirilito Sobejana | 1996 | Alive |
| Cpt Eduardo Lucero | 2000 | Deceased |
| 2Lt Herbert Dilag | 2000 | Alive |
| Sgt Claudio Forrosuelo | 2000 | Deceased |
| Ssg Lucio Curig | 2000 | Alive |
| Ltc Noel Buan | 2004 | Alive |
| Ssg Leopoldo Diokno | 2004 | Alive |
| Pfc Ian Pacquit | 2014 | Deceased |
| Philippine Navy Personnel | ||
| Pfc Nestor Acero | 1983 | Deceased |
| Cpt Custodio Parcon | 1991 | Alive |
| Sgt Tomas Campo Jr | 2000 | Deceased |
| 1Lt Lolinato Toong | 2000 | Deceased |
| Sgt Domingo Deluana | 2000 | Deceased |
| LTC Ariel Querubin | 2001 | Alive |
| Ssg Herminigildo Yurong | 2001 | Deceased |
| Cpl Laurence Narag | 2001 | Deceased |
| Cpl Ernesto Layaguin | 2001 | Deceased |
| Philippine Air Force Personnel | ||
| LTC Jesus Villamor | 1954 | Deceased |
| Maj Danilo Atienza | 1990 | Deceased |
| A2C Ludegario Bactol | 1990 | Deceased |
| Philippine Constabulary Personnel | ||
| TSg Desidero Suson | 1981 | Deceased |
| MSg Isaias Silvestre Jr | 1985 | Alive |
| Sgt Jacinto Moreno | 1986 | Alive |
– Rappler.com
http://www.rappler.com/nation/156185-combat-award-navy-elite-officer
Lacson urges security advisers, experts to study China’s weapons offer
From InterAksyon (Dec 21): Lacson urges security advisers, experts to study China’s weapons offer
Senator Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday asked national security advisers and experts to study the possible implications of the $14-million military aid offered by China to the Philippines.
In a statement, Lacson, former national police chief, said “we can't be too dumb not to realize that while China offers us weapons, they continue fortifying their defense facilities in our islands."
“There should be an in-depth analysis and thorough discussion among our top national security advisers and other security experts before any decision is arrived at, not to mention any action to be undertaken concerning major foreign policy matters,” Lacson said.
Lacson said that the issues involved here have far-reaching implications to our people and our country's future generations.
“Not one man, even if he is the president and commander-in-chief, has the monopoly of wisdom and knowledge concerning issues of this magnitude and proportion,” he said.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135483/lacson-urges-security-advisers-experts-to-study-chinas-weapons-offer
Senator Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday asked national security advisers and experts to study the possible implications of the $14-million military aid offered by China to the Philippines.
In a statement, Lacson, former national police chief, said “we can't be too dumb not to realize that while China offers us weapons, they continue fortifying their defense facilities in our islands."
“There should be an in-depth analysis and thorough discussion among our top national security advisers and other security experts before any decision is arrived at, not to mention any action to be undertaken concerning major foreign policy matters,” Lacson said.
Lacson said that the issues involved here have far-reaching implications to our people and our country's future generations.
“Not one man, even if he is the president and commander-in-chief, has the monopoly of wisdom and knowledge concerning issues of this magnitude and proportion,” he said.
http://interaksyon.com/article/135483/lacson-urges-security-advisers-experts-to-study-chinas-weapons-offer
24 former rebels assisted under CLIP in Kalinga
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 21): 24 former rebels assisted under CLIP in Kalinga
Twenty four former rebels (FR) who joined mainstream society under the Comprehensive Local Integration Program or CLIP in the province this year have been given assistance to live normal life.
Under CLIP, the former rebels were given reintegration support amounting to P15, 000.00 immediate assistance, firearms remuneration of which amount depends on valuation of firearm surrendered, and livelihood assistance worth P50, 000.00.
Eusebia Haddac of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and CLIP focal person, reported that the 24 FRs were recommended to work as “bantay gubat” under the National Greening Program of the government.
The CLIP committee in its recent meeting verified that these FRs are enrolled to Philhealth with some sponsored under PAMANA and others through the National Household Targeting System.
To sustain their livelihood and organize themselves to engage in bigger enterprises, the livelihood sub-committee chaired by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and PSWDO as members was tasked to plan the conduct capacity building for the group to include preparation of project proposals.
Meanwhile, Engr. Eduardo Tamayao of TESDA announced that the Agency offers technical-vocational scholarship training for FRs who are interested to acquire skills.
Anthony Luminang of the DOLE assured assistance to former rebels who are organized and registered with DOLE. He said their dependents and other family members can join the association to meet the 21 minimum number of members, and they can propose any project they are capable of managing and sustaining.
Edwin Muyao of DAR said they can assist organize former rebels, conduct training for the group and also provide livelihood assistance.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/171482218479/-24-former-rebels-assisted-under-clip-in-kalinga
Twenty four former rebels (FR) who joined mainstream society under the Comprehensive Local Integration Program or CLIP in the province this year have been given assistance to live normal life.
Under CLIP, the former rebels were given reintegration support amounting to P15, 000.00 immediate assistance, firearms remuneration of which amount depends on valuation of firearm surrendered, and livelihood assistance worth P50, 000.00.
Eusebia Haddac of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and CLIP focal person, reported that the 24 FRs were recommended to work as “bantay gubat” under the National Greening Program of the government.
The CLIP committee in its recent meeting verified that these FRs are enrolled to Philhealth with some sponsored under PAMANA and others through the National Household Targeting System.
To sustain their livelihood and organize themselves to engage in bigger enterprises, the livelihood sub-committee chaired by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and PSWDO as members was tasked to plan the conduct capacity building for the group to include preparation of project proposals.
Meanwhile, Engr. Eduardo Tamayao of TESDA announced that the Agency offers technical-vocational scholarship training for FRs who are interested to acquire skills.
Anthony Luminang of the DOLE assured assistance to former rebels who are organized and registered with DOLE. He said their dependents and other family members can join the association to meet the 21 minimum number of members, and they can propose any project they are capable of managing and sustaining.
Edwin Muyao of DAR said they can assist organize former rebels, conduct training for the group and also provide livelihood assistance.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/171482218479/-24-former-rebels-assisted-under-clip-in-kalinga
Army capacitates young cultural minority professionals in Caraga
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 21): Army capacitates young cultural minority professionals in Caraga
Butuan City -- In its aim to enhance the potential of the young cultural minority professionals to become an agent of peace and development in the communities, the 4th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, Philippine Army capacitated the youth sector thru the conduct of ‘Young Cultural Minority Professionals’ Forum from December 21-22, 2016 at 4CMO Conference Room, this city.
According to 4CMO Battalion commanding officer LTC Rey Pasco, this the first in Caraga region to conduct such forum involving the youth sectors, who are mostly officers of the Caraga Mindanao Cultural Development, Inc. (CMCDI), an Indigenous Peoples (IP) youth organization which was organized by the 4CMO as IP Youth Leaders and Communicators in the region, student leaders from Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) in Butuan City and Muslim young professionals identified by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
“The youths as future leaders of our society are considered critical and decisive factor in the government's fight against insurgency and violent extremism, for they will soon shape the course of our society, thus, there is a great need to properly address and educate the youth sector so as to deny the Communist Party of the Philippines – New Peoples Army – National Democratic Front (CNN) and violent extremists a source for their recruitment and to discredit the enemy's propaganda against the government,” highlighted Col. Pasco.
Col. Pasco added that lecturers of said forum are coming from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), NCMF, Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and 401st and 402nd Brigades of Philippine Army.
“We invited speakers from the aforementioned agencies to discuss relevant topics, issues and concerns that affect the youth sector. We wanted to equip the participants with the right knowledge and capacitate them through a workshop to come up with an action plan for their respective community. Right after the workshop, they will present and explain their outputs to develop small group interaction and break barriers in expectation and pre-conceptions,” Col. Pasco underlined.
It was also learned that said activity will be replicated and conducted at the provincial and municipal level by the CMO companies in coordination with the brigades in the area of responsibility.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041482298330/army-capacitates-young-cultural-minority-professionals-in-caraga
Butuan City -- In its aim to enhance the potential of the young cultural minority professionals to become an agent of peace and development in the communities, the 4th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, Philippine Army capacitated the youth sector thru the conduct of ‘Young Cultural Minority Professionals’ Forum from December 21-22, 2016 at 4CMO Conference Room, this city.
According to 4CMO Battalion commanding officer LTC Rey Pasco, this the first in Caraga region to conduct such forum involving the youth sectors, who are mostly officers of the Caraga Mindanao Cultural Development, Inc. (CMCDI), an Indigenous Peoples (IP) youth organization which was organized by the 4CMO as IP Youth Leaders and Communicators in the region, student leaders from Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) in Butuan City and Muslim young professionals identified by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
“The youths as future leaders of our society are considered critical and decisive factor in the government's fight against insurgency and violent extremism, for they will soon shape the course of our society, thus, there is a great need to properly address and educate the youth sector so as to deny the Communist Party of the Philippines – New Peoples Army – National Democratic Front (CNN) and violent extremists a source for their recruitment and to discredit the enemy's propaganda against the government,” highlighted Col. Pasco.
Col. Pasco added that lecturers of said forum are coming from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), NCMF, Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and 401st and 402nd Brigades of Philippine Army.
“We invited speakers from the aforementioned agencies to discuss relevant topics, issues and concerns that affect the youth sector. We wanted to equip the participants with the right knowledge and capacitate them through a workshop to come up with an action plan for their respective community. Right after the workshop, they will present and explain their outputs to develop small group interaction and break barriers in expectation and pre-conceptions,” Col. Pasco underlined.
It was also learned that said activity will be replicated and conducted at the provincial and municipal level by the CMO companies in coordination with the brigades in the area of responsibility.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041482298330/army-capacitates-young-cultural-minority-professionals-in-caraga
New police regional director installed in Northern Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 20): New police regional director installed in Northern Mindanao
CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan De Oro City -- A new regional police director has reported on Tuesday to this regional police command in Northern Mindanao.
P/Chief Supt. Agripino Javier was installed as the new regional police director in Northern Mindanao replacing P/Chief Supt. Noel Constantino.
In his acceptance speech, Javier said that he would continue with the programs of the outgoing police regional director without a plan to change anything.
Javier said that he fully supports the policies and program of President Rodrigo Duterte and vowed to carry out the anti-illegal drug and the anti-corruption campaign of the government.
Constantino was promoted to a two-rank general. He would assume a new post in Camp Crame.
Constantino expressed his profound gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte and to Chief Police Director General Ronald Dela Rosa for the promotion of his rank.
During the turnover ceremony here Tuesday, Constantino said that 81,000 drug dependents surrendered under the Operation Tokhang (Knock and Plead) anti-illegal drive operation from July to December 20, 2016.
He said that the regional police command also arrested more than 2,000 drug related suspects and killed 44 illegal drug traders during legitimate operations during the same period.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949830
CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan De Oro City -- A new regional police director has reported on Tuesday to this regional police command in Northern Mindanao.
P/Chief Supt. Agripino Javier was installed as the new regional police director in Northern Mindanao replacing P/Chief Supt. Noel Constantino.
In his acceptance speech, Javier said that he would continue with the programs of the outgoing police regional director without a plan to change anything.
Javier said that he fully supports the policies and program of President Rodrigo Duterte and vowed to carry out the anti-illegal drug and the anti-corruption campaign of the government.
Constantino was promoted to a two-rank general. He would assume a new post in Camp Crame.
Constantino expressed his profound gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte and to Chief Police Director General Ronald Dela Rosa for the promotion of his rank.
During the turnover ceremony here Tuesday, Constantino said that 81,000 drug dependents surrendered under the Operation Tokhang (Knock and Plead) anti-illegal drive operation from July to December 20, 2016.
He said that the regional police command also arrested more than 2,000 drug related suspects and killed 44 illegal drug traders during legitimate operations during the same period.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949830
Former PNP spokesperson now heads PNP-ARMM
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 20): Former PNP spokesperson now heads PNP-ARMM
CAMP SK PENDATUN, Maguindanao -- A former spokesperson of the Philippine National Police (PNP) now heads the police office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) after he assumed office, replacing Chief Supt. Agripino Javier in simple turnover rites this afternoon.
Chief Inspector Ronald de Leon, regional police spokesperson, said Chief Supt. Reuben Theodore Sindac replaced Chief Supt. Javier who was reassigned to PNP Regional Office No. 10 in Cagayan de Oro City.
Sindac was PNP spokesperson until he was moved to head the PNP Logistics Support Services in 2014 following the controversy involving then PNP Director General Alan Purisima on the Mamasapano incident.
PNP-ARMM covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
Sindac started his career as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Regular Force, Philippine Army in 1984. He was fielded for combat duty to front-line positions in southern Philippines and served as platoon leader and company executive officer in the different Army line units.
In 1988, after extensive work with the Narcotics Command, he was transferred to the Philippine Constabulary and in 1991, Sindac was absorbed as a Police Commissioned Officer in the newly-created Philippine National Police (PNP) with the rank of Police Chief Inspector (Major). Six months later he became police superintendent.
In the police, he has occupied various middle-management positions, serving as regional chief of the PNP Highway Patrol Group for the Bicol Region, a chief of police of Lucena City and a Provincial Director of Masbate province.
Sindac was also assigned as Chief, Regional Intelligence Division, of the Bicol Police Regional Office; and Regional Logistics, Research & Development Division, for the Central Luzon Police Regional Office; and CDS then DDO of the Highway Patrol Group.
In 2013, he was designated to the position of chief of the PNP Public Information Office and spokesperson.
He was later promoted to the rank of Chief Superintendent on December 2013, a senior executive management position in the PNP with the corresponding civil service eligibilities.
He said his over three decades of experience in the law enforcement and military professions have given him a deep understanding of how to develop and motivate winning teams, enhance the capabilities of small & large operating and support units, and connect effectively with various stakeholders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949763
CAMP SK PENDATUN, Maguindanao -- A former spokesperson of the Philippine National Police (PNP) now heads the police office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) after he assumed office, replacing Chief Supt. Agripino Javier in simple turnover rites this afternoon.
Chief Inspector Ronald de Leon, regional police spokesperson, said Chief Supt. Reuben Theodore Sindac replaced Chief Supt. Javier who was reassigned to PNP Regional Office No. 10 in Cagayan de Oro City.
Sindac was PNP spokesperson until he was moved to head the PNP Logistics Support Services in 2014 following the controversy involving then PNP Director General Alan Purisima on the Mamasapano incident.
PNP-ARMM covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.
Sindac started his career as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Regular Force, Philippine Army in 1984. He was fielded for combat duty to front-line positions in southern Philippines and served as platoon leader and company executive officer in the different Army line units.
In 1988, after extensive work with the Narcotics Command, he was transferred to the Philippine Constabulary and in 1991, Sindac was absorbed as a Police Commissioned Officer in the newly-created Philippine National Police (PNP) with the rank of Police Chief Inspector (Major). Six months later he became police superintendent.
In the police, he has occupied various middle-management positions, serving as regional chief of the PNP Highway Patrol Group for the Bicol Region, a chief of police of Lucena City and a Provincial Director of Masbate province.
Sindac was also assigned as Chief, Regional Intelligence Division, of the Bicol Police Regional Office; and Regional Logistics, Research & Development Division, for the Central Luzon Police Regional Office; and CDS then DDO of the Highway Patrol Group.
In 2013, he was designated to the position of chief of the PNP Public Information Office and spokesperson.
He was later promoted to the rank of Chief Superintendent on December 2013, a senior executive management position in the PNP with the corresponding civil service eligibilities.
He said his over three decades of experience in the law enforcement and military professions have given him a deep understanding of how to develop and motivate winning teams, enhance the capabilities of small & large operating and support units, and connect effectively with various stakeholders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949763
Peace building effort with RPA-ABB in Panay Island gets boost under Duterte administration
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Peace building effort with RPA-ABB in Panay Island gets boost under Duterte administration
Peace-building efforts in Panay Island gained momentum under the administration of President Rodrigo Roa-Duterte with the full-swing implementation of the livelihood program in conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas in three provinces through the Sustainable Livelihood Program- PAyapa and MAsaganang PamayaNAn (SLP-PAMANA) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The provision of livelihood support is part of the peace process closure track with the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB) Tabara-Paduano Group (TPG), said Anthony Laruan, focal person for the SLP-PAMANA of the DSWD in Western Visayas.
“Part of the confidence building measure is the economic component, which is to provide livelihood to communities identified by the TPG,” he explained.
It is covered by Joint Resolution 2014-001 of the Department of Budget and Management, Commission on Audit and the DSWD that provides guidelines for the accreditation of civil society organizations (CSOs) to become recipients, beneficiaries or implementing entities of government or public funds.
The recipient communities, which are non-members of the TPG, have been accredited as CSO-beneficiaries, he said.
They are in 39 barangays settled in municipalities of Pandan, Sebaste, Culasi and Lau-an in Antique; Madalag, Ibajay and Nabas in Aklan and Maasin, Janiuay, Cabatuan, New Lucena, Tigbauan, Guimbal and Oton in Iloilo.
Their proposed livelihood projects have been approved and 38 barangays were already released Php500,000 each, Laruan added.
The projects range from agri-trading, vegetable and livestock production and community store, which are all communal projects. Each project has around 40 to 100 participants with the recipients reaching to around 1,000 in 39 barangays.
Laruan said that while the social preparation for the SLP started in April this year, the release of funds happened during the Duterte administration. He said this reflects the desire of the current government to pursue the peace efforts started by the past administration.
The social preparation included the validation of proposed projects, some of which were already identified way back in 2009.
However, most of the projects implemented were totally new following the validation and appraisal through project development and assessment workshop attended by livelihood focal person of the identified local government unit, agricultural officer, municipal social welfare officer and the local chief executive.
Meanwhile, there are two other components of the closure track that could not be implemented because of the unsigned agreement.
These are the livelihood program for profiled members of the TPG and the provision of the core shelter assistance.
The SLP for TPG-identified communities was implemented because it is part of the regular program of the DSWD, he explained.
Aside from livelihood program, DSWD also extended technology transfer training, capability building, seminar on business and financial management and technical sharing sessions on transition.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949751
Peace-building efforts in Panay Island gained momentum under the administration of President Rodrigo Roa-Duterte with the full-swing implementation of the livelihood program in conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas in three provinces through the Sustainable Livelihood Program- PAyapa and MAsaganang PamayaNAn (SLP-PAMANA) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The provision of livelihood support is part of the peace process closure track with the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB) Tabara-Paduano Group (TPG), said Anthony Laruan, focal person for the SLP-PAMANA of the DSWD in Western Visayas.
“Part of the confidence building measure is the economic component, which is to provide livelihood to communities identified by the TPG,” he explained.
It is covered by Joint Resolution 2014-001 of the Department of Budget and Management, Commission on Audit and the DSWD that provides guidelines for the accreditation of civil society organizations (CSOs) to become recipients, beneficiaries or implementing entities of government or public funds.
The recipient communities, which are non-members of the TPG, have been accredited as CSO-beneficiaries, he said.
They are in 39 barangays settled in municipalities of Pandan, Sebaste, Culasi and Lau-an in Antique; Madalag, Ibajay and Nabas in Aklan and Maasin, Janiuay, Cabatuan, New Lucena, Tigbauan, Guimbal and Oton in Iloilo.
Their proposed livelihood projects have been approved and 38 barangays were already released Php500,000 each, Laruan added.
The projects range from agri-trading, vegetable and livestock production and community store, which are all communal projects. Each project has around 40 to 100 participants with the recipients reaching to around 1,000 in 39 barangays.
Laruan said that while the social preparation for the SLP started in April this year, the release of funds happened during the Duterte administration. He said this reflects the desire of the current government to pursue the peace efforts started by the past administration.
The social preparation included the validation of proposed projects, some of which were already identified way back in 2009.
However, most of the projects implemented were totally new following the validation and appraisal through project development and assessment workshop attended by livelihood focal person of the identified local government unit, agricultural officer, municipal social welfare officer and the local chief executive.
Meanwhile, there are two other components of the closure track that could not be implemented because of the unsigned agreement.
These are the livelihood program for profiled members of the TPG and the provision of the core shelter assistance.
The SLP for TPG-identified communities was implemented because it is part of the regular program of the DSWD, he explained.
Aside from livelihood program, DSWD also extended technology transfer training, capability building, seminar on business and financial management and technical sharing sessions on transition.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949751
Army notes less NPA atrocities in Samar, Leyte provinces
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Army notes less NPA atrocities in Samar, Leyte provinces
The ongoing peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has resulted to less violence committed by the armed rebels in Eastern Visayas in the past six months, according to the Philippine Army.
“The abrupt decline during the third quarter of 2016 was attributed to the peace initiative offered by President Rodrigo Duterte to the communist rebels,” said Lt. Col. George Domingo, chief of the Army 8th Infantry Division civil military operations battalion.
Only 25 NPA-initiated atrocities in the region were recorded by the army from January to November 2016. The official had no available data when asked about 2015 incidents.
Among provinces, Northern Samar has the highest number of incidents at 16, followed by Samar (six), Eastern Samar (two), and Leyte (one).
Most violence was committed during the first quarter of the year, according to Domingo.
“Atrocities had slowed down in the second quarter as some rebels participated in the campaign of their supported candidates,” Domingo added.
Government troops and communities also recorded 447 activities by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA). These activities were concentrated on the conduct of rehabilitation works.
Of the 447 activities, 190 were noted in Northern Samar, 122 in Samar, 114 in Eastern Samar, and 21 in Leyte.
Tagged as NPA-infested areas are Silvino Lobos, Las Navas, San Roque, and Mondragon towns in Northern Samar; San Jose de Buan, Gandara, and San Jorge in Samar; Oras, Canavid, Dolores, Llorente, General McArthur, and Balangiga in Eastern Samar.
In Leyte, NPAs are more active in the upland villages of Burauen, Ormoc City, Albuera, Baybay City, and San Isidro towns.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949871
The ongoing peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has resulted to less violence committed by the armed rebels in Eastern Visayas in the past six months, according to the Philippine Army.
“The abrupt decline during the third quarter of 2016 was attributed to the peace initiative offered by President Rodrigo Duterte to the communist rebels,” said Lt. Col. George Domingo, chief of the Army 8th Infantry Division civil military operations battalion.
Only 25 NPA-initiated atrocities in the region were recorded by the army from January to November 2016. The official had no available data when asked about 2015 incidents.
Among provinces, Northern Samar has the highest number of incidents at 16, followed by Samar (six), Eastern Samar (two), and Leyte (one).
Most violence was committed during the first quarter of the year, according to Domingo.
“Atrocities had slowed down in the second quarter as some rebels participated in the campaign of their supported candidates,” Domingo added.
Government troops and communities also recorded 447 activities by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA). These activities were concentrated on the conduct of rehabilitation works.
Of the 447 activities, 190 were noted in Northern Samar, 122 in Samar, 114 in Eastern Samar, and 21 in Leyte.
Tagged as NPA-infested areas are Silvino Lobos, Las Navas, San Roque, and Mondragon towns in Northern Samar; San Jose de Buan, Gandara, and San Jorge in Samar; Oras, Canavid, Dolores, Llorente, General McArthur, and Balangiga in Eastern Samar.
In Leyte, NPAs are more active in the upland villages of Burauen, Ormoc City, Albuera, Baybay City, and San Isidro towns.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=949871
(Features) Remembering the indefatigable Nes Isleta as an officer and gentleman
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): (Features) Remembering the indefatigable Nes Isleta as an officer and gentleman
As a soldier, the late Brig. Gen. Honesto M. Isleta is remembered by his peers as a fearless psy-war expert with a soft heart, who was always the cynosure in any occasion because of his jokes and anecdotes which he laughed the loudest.
The sad news is that Gen. Isleta died peacefully in his sleep last week after years of bout with kidney problem. He was 83.
Gen. Isleta was buried at the “Libingan ng mga Bayani” in Fort Bonfiacio, Taguig City on Tuesday (Dec. 20, 2016) where he was given a hero’s burial as a soldier.
Isleta was a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class 1958. His classmate retired Maj. Gen. Ramon E. Montaño and Brig. Gen. Madriño attended the burial.
Also present during the burial was retired Lt. Gen. Eduardo R. Ermita, a close friend of Gen. Isleta.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos was present at the necrological services at Heritage Cemetery Monday night to bid farewell to the late officer.
Incidentally, this writer had the opportunity to know Nes, as he was fondly called by his peers and members of the press, who covered the defense and military beat especially during the Mindanao War in the mid ‘70s and ‘80s at a time when martial law was imposed and the 1986 People Power that ensued and during the Ramos presidency when he was named as press undersecretary.
Unknown to many, Nes was a member of the famed Philippine Civic Action Group (PHILCAG) in Vietnam during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969 and as the last PHILCAG man to be out of Vietnam.
It was in Vietnam where he poured his civic action expertise, together with other PHILCAG officers and men in alleviating the suffering of the Vietnamese caught in the crossfire.
He maximized his experience in Vietnam when the Mindanao rebellion broke out in 1974 staged by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
A psychological war expert, Nes was assigned at the Civil Relations Service (CRS) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Nes helped in disseminating information to the media on what was going on in the AFP’s campaign in Mindanao against the MNLF.
During the peace talks initiated by the government in 1977, Nes was assigned to give daily press briefing to members of media covering the negations.
This writer was one of the three Manila newsmen who covered the localized peace talks. The other two were Alex Allan of Daily Express and Fred Sajot of Channel 13.
The mission of government peace talk negotiators was to go directly to MNLF areas in Mindanao, including Sulu and Tawi-Tawi where the talks were held.
We knew it was a dangerous mission, but the peace panel took the risk. We rode aboard a Philippine Navy ship in going to the islands and took the helicopter in our trips to various provinces in mainland Mindanao.
The peace talks lasted for one month.
The most dangerous peace talks the government peace negotiators undertook was in Tuburan, Basilan where MNLF forces under Gerry Salapuddin were based.
As our ship was steaming towards Basilan Nes, who was then a colonel, announced that the MNLF rebels would only talk to the peace panel provided no security forces would be allowed to go ashore.
“We will comply with their request. We are going there without any security forces,” Nes said.
We rode on small boat going to the seashore as it was low tide at that time. When we reached the seashore, we saw men in fatigue uniform with high-powered firearms. We presumed they were advanced army soldiers, but we were shocked to learn that they were all MNLF rebels. Members of the press were told to wait outside the conference room.
After an hour of waiting, we heard shouting inside the conference room when an MNLF rebel, a classmate of Fred Sajot as the latter was from Basilan, told us to be alert and prepare for any contingency.
We looked around and we saw two 30 caliber machineguns positioned to the right and one at the left.
At that point, we could do nothing. I just prayed. After a few minutes, there was complete silence inside the conference room and the negotiators from the government and MNLF came out smiling.
We took a deep breath of relief.
Then Nes told us¨”Everything is alright” and we laughed when Nes said: “Natakot ba kayo? (Were you afraid?)We went back to board our ship anchored 100 meters from the shoreline.
As usual, Nes, a jolly fellow as usual, started cracking jokes of the incident that had just happened.
A religious man he was, Nes will be remembered by veteran journalists as an officer and a gentleman with a big heart of kindness and humility.
May his soul be in heaven.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949956
As a soldier, the late Brig. Gen. Honesto M. Isleta is remembered by his peers as a fearless psy-war expert with a soft heart, who was always the cynosure in any occasion because of his jokes and anecdotes which he laughed the loudest.
The sad news is that Gen. Isleta died peacefully in his sleep last week after years of bout with kidney problem. He was 83.
Gen. Isleta was buried at the “Libingan ng mga Bayani” in Fort Bonfiacio, Taguig City on Tuesday (Dec. 20, 2016) where he was given a hero’s burial as a soldier.
Isleta was a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class 1958. His classmate retired Maj. Gen. Ramon E. Montaño and Brig. Gen. Madriño attended the burial.
Also present during the burial was retired Lt. Gen. Eduardo R. Ermita, a close friend of Gen. Isleta.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos was present at the necrological services at Heritage Cemetery Monday night to bid farewell to the late officer.
Incidentally, this writer had the opportunity to know Nes, as he was fondly called by his peers and members of the press, who covered the defense and military beat especially during the Mindanao War in the mid ‘70s and ‘80s at a time when martial law was imposed and the 1986 People Power that ensued and during the Ramos presidency when he was named as press undersecretary.
Unknown to many, Nes was a member of the famed Philippine Civic Action Group (PHILCAG) in Vietnam during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969 and as the last PHILCAG man to be out of Vietnam.
It was in Vietnam where he poured his civic action expertise, together with other PHILCAG officers and men in alleviating the suffering of the Vietnamese caught in the crossfire.
He maximized his experience in Vietnam when the Mindanao rebellion broke out in 1974 staged by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
A psychological war expert, Nes was assigned at the Civil Relations Service (CRS) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Nes helped in disseminating information to the media on what was going on in the AFP’s campaign in Mindanao against the MNLF.
During the peace talks initiated by the government in 1977, Nes was assigned to give daily press briefing to members of media covering the negations.
This writer was one of the three Manila newsmen who covered the localized peace talks. The other two were Alex Allan of Daily Express and Fred Sajot of Channel 13.
The mission of government peace talk negotiators was to go directly to MNLF areas in Mindanao, including Sulu and Tawi-Tawi where the talks were held.
We knew it was a dangerous mission, but the peace panel took the risk. We rode aboard a Philippine Navy ship in going to the islands and took the helicopter in our trips to various provinces in mainland Mindanao.
The peace talks lasted for one month.
The most dangerous peace talks the government peace negotiators undertook was in Tuburan, Basilan where MNLF forces under Gerry Salapuddin were based.
As our ship was steaming towards Basilan Nes, who was then a colonel, announced that the MNLF rebels would only talk to the peace panel provided no security forces would be allowed to go ashore.
“We will comply with their request. We are going there without any security forces,” Nes said.
We rode on small boat going to the seashore as it was low tide at that time. When we reached the seashore, we saw men in fatigue uniform with high-powered firearms. We presumed they were advanced army soldiers, but we were shocked to learn that they were all MNLF rebels. Members of the press were told to wait outside the conference room.
After an hour of waiting, we heard shouting inside the conference room when an MNLF rebel, a classmate of Fred Sajot as the latter was from Basilan, told us to be alert and prepare for any contingency.
We looked around and we saw two 30 caliber machineguns positioned to the right and one at the left.
At that point, we could do nothing. I just prayed. After a few minutes, there was complete silence inside the conference room and the negotiators from the government and MNLF came out smiling.
We took a deep breath of relief.
Then Nes told us¨”Everything is alright” and we laughed when Nes said: “Natakot ba kayo? (Were you afraid?)We went back to board our ship anchored 100 meters from the shoreline.
As usual, Nes, a jolly fellow as usual, started cracking jokes of the incident that had just happened.
A religious man he was, Nes will be remembered by veteran journalists as an officer and a gentleman with a big heart of kindness and humility.
May his soul be in heaven.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949956
TRADOC conducts 11-day JCATEX in Fort Magsaysay
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): TRADOC conducts 11-day JCATEX in Fort Magsaysay
In line with efforts to strengthen the Philippine Army's war fighting capabilities, the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) has conducted a 11-day Joint Combined Arms Training Exercise (JCATEX) held in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija which formally ended Monday.
Capt. Alberto Caber, TRADOC spokesperson, said 694 students of different career courses such as Combat Arms School; Combat Support School; Combat Service Support School; Army Leadership Development Center; The Armor School; The Intelligence School; and Civil-Military Operations School.
Highlights of the activity are military operation in urban terrain; battle drills and situational exercises; field training exercises; live fire exercises of 105 howitzers and mortars; and command post exercise.
In addition, two engineer platoon students of the Philippine Navy also took their part in the exercise while the Philippine Air Force also performed close air support, troops insertion and casualty evacuation exercises.
TRADOC chief Brig. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino said the recently-concluded JCATEX will prepare participants to incorporate joint, inter-agency, intergovernmental and indigenous actors into combined arms teams in order to attain the success of an effects-based operation.
“By synchronizing combined arms and applying them simultaneously, maneuver units can achieve a greater effect. To integrate all arms into the fight, maneuver leaders must have an understanding of systems’ capabilities and employment methods that go beyond individual branch competencies.
Importantly, maneuver leaders must be able to integrate, not only Army, but also Air Force and Navy service capabilities into operations with a particular emphasis on joint intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and fire capabilities,” he added.
The implementation of JCATEX is in compliance with the directive of higher headquarters geared to infuse in each and every participant realistic scenarios measuring their preparedness in facing combat.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949951
In line with efforts to strengthen the Philippine Army's war fighting capabilities, the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) has conducted a 11-day Joint Combined Arms Training Exercise (JCATEX) held in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija which formally ended Monday.
Capt. Alberto Caber, TRADOC spokesperson, said 694 students of different career courses such as Combat Arms School; Combat Support School; Combat Service Support School; Army Leadership Development Center; The Armor School; The Intelligence School; and Civil-Military Operations School.
Highlights of the activity are military operation in urban terrain; battle drills and situational exercises; field training exercises; live fire exercises of 105 howitzers and mortars; and command post exercise.
In addition, two engineer platoon students of the Philippine Navy also took their part in the exercise while the Philippine Air Force also performed close air support, troops insertion and casualty evacuation exercises.
TRADOC chief Brig. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino said the recently-concluded JCATEX will prepare participants to incorporate joint, inter-agency, intergovernmental and indigenous actors into combined arms teams in order to attain the success of an effects-based operation.
“By synchronizing combined arms and applying them simultaneously, maneuver units can achieve a greater effect. To integrate all arms into the fight, maneuver leaders must have an understanding of systems’ capabilities and employment methods that go beyond individual branch competencies.
Importantly, maneuver leaders must be able to integrate, not only Army, but also Air Force and Navy service capabilities into operations with a particular emphasis on joint intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and fire capabilities,” he added.
The implementation of JCATEX is in compliance with the directive of higher headquarters geared to infuse in each and every participant realistic scenarios measuring their preparedness in facing combat.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949951
Free medical treatment for cops hurt in line of duty
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Free medical treatment for cops hurt in line of duty
Malacañang announced on Wednesday that members of the Philippine National Police who are hurt in the line of duty will now have access to free treatment at the Chinese General Hospital.
"The Philippine National Police has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association, PCCAI, which is the owner of the Chinese General Hospital," Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella announced in a press briefing.
Abella explained that based on the agreement, police personnel who are engaged in actual police operations or during hot pursuit of enemies of the state, and so forth, will receive comprehensive medical attention from the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center free of charge.
Non-uniformed personnel who are also injured during actual police operations are also covered by the agreement, Abella noted, “provided their immediate superior shall submit documents showing the former in line of duty status.”
At the same briefing, Abella said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) now has a new warehouse, which increases the storage capacity for relief goods.....
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=950090
Malacañang announced on Wednesday that members of the Philippine National Police who are hurt in the line of duty will now have access to free treatment at the Chinese General Hospital.
"The Philippine National Police has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association, PCCAI, which is the owner of the Chinese General Hospital," Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella announced in a press briefing.
Abella explained that based on the agreement, police personnel who are engaged in actual police operations or during hot pursuit of enemies of the state, and so forth, will receive comprehensive medical attention from the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center free of charge.
Non-uniformed personnel who are also injured during actual police operations are also covered by the agreement, Abella noted, “provided their immediate superior shall submit documents showing the former in line of duty status.”
At the same briefing, Abella said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) now has a new warehouse, which increases the storage capacity for relief goods.....
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=950090
Pres. Duterte, Joma agree to pursue peace process -- Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): Pres. Duterte, Joma agree to pursue peace process -- Palace
A Palace officials confirmed on Wednesday that President Rodrigo Duterte and National Democratic Front (NDF) chief political consultant Jose Maria ‘Joma’ Sison talked over the phone at dawn last Tuesday.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said President Duterte and Sison agreed to pursue the peace process.
"It did go on. It went through at about 3 a.m. dawn of that particular day. From the sources, it was a warm conversation between old friends," Abella said.
"But there were no details, there were no political issues that were covered. However, both were agreed that the peace process must move forward," he added.
In his Facebook post, Sison confirmed the conversation which he described as “friendly and productive.”
Sison said the unilateral ceasefire declarations of the GRP and NDFP will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
He added: "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.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=950005
A Palace officials confirmed on Wednesday that President Rodrigo Duterte and National Democratic Front (NDF) chief political consultant Jose Maria ‘Joma’ Sison talked over the phone at dawn last Tuesday.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said President Duterte and Sison agreed to pursue the peace process.
"It did go on. It went through at about 3 a.m. dawn of that particular day. From the sources, it was a warm conversation between old friends," Abella said.
"But there were no details, there were no political issues that were covered. However, both were agreed that the peace process must move forward," he added.
In his Facebook post, Sison confirmed the conversation which he described as “friendly and productive.”
Sison said the unilateral ceasefire declarations of the GRP and NDFP will stand during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
He added: "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.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=950005
3 courageous troopers awarded with major military medals during AFP's 81st founding anniversary
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): 3 courageous troopers awarded with major military medals during AFP's 81st founding anniversary
For demonstrating courage and gallantry in combat, three military personnel were conferred with three major medals during the 81st founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Wednesday.
These men were Lt. (JG) Reginald M. Balidoc, of the Philippine Navy; 1st Lt. Jay L. Maravilla, of the Philippine Army; and Cpl. Felipe C. Barbadillo, of the Philippine Marine Corps.
They were decorated by President Rodrigo Duterte during Wednesday's awarding ceremonies.
He was assisted Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Balidoc was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star while Maravilla and Bardadillo were both given the Gold Cross Medal.
The former, who is a member of the Navy Special Operations Group and a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 2011, was given the Distinguished Conduct Star for "acts of conspicious courage and gallantry in the face of an armed enemy during an encounter against more or less 50 foreign and local terrorist organization members under Omarkhayam and Abdullah Maute at the Ragayan, Butig, Lanao Del Sur on Feb. 25, 2016 that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy thereby showcasing extreme stability under fire and keeping up with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery."
Balidoc is also the team leader of Naval Special Operations Unit-8.
The Distinguished Conduct Star is given to military personnel of the AFP for singular/personal acts of conspicious courage and gallantry in the face of armed enemy.
Maravilla, a Bachelor of Science of Biology graduate, was conferred the Gold Cross Medal, "for gallantry in action during an encounter against more or less 100 fully armed Abu Sayyaf Group who were involved in several high-profile kidnappings at Sitio Makaita, Barangay Bungkaong, Patikul, Sulu last Aug. 26, 2016 that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy and recovery of numerous war materiel through superb combat leadership and tactical acumen."
The Gold Cross Medal is usually handed to military personnel of the AFP for singular/personal acts of gallantry in action not warranting the award of the Distinguished Conduct Star.
Barbadillo was also given this medal for gallantry in action while serving as the leading sniper of the Special Operations Platoon of the Marine Landing Team-6 tasked as main effort to conduct law enforcement patrol to neutralize the armed group of Jaafar Sabiwang Maguid, a local terrorist believed to be linked with the foreign terrorist group ISIS at Sinapingan, Barangay Butril Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat last Nov. 26, 2015.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=950055
For demonstrating courage and gallantry in combat, three military personnel were conferred with three major medals during the 81st founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Wednesday.
These men were Lt. (JG) Reginald M. Balidoc, of the Philippine Navy; 1st Lt. Jay L. Maravilla, of the Philippine Army; and Cpl. Felipe C. Barbadillo, of the Philippine Marine Corps.
They were decorated by President Rodrigo Duterte during Wednesday's awarding ceremonies.
He was assisted Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Balidoc was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star while Maravilla and Bardadillo were both given the Gold Cross Medal.
The former, who is a member of the Navy Special Operations Group and a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 2011, was given the Distinguished Conduct Star for "acts of conspicious courage and gallantry in the face of an armed enemy during an encounter against more or less 50 foreign and local terrorist organization members under Omarkhayam and Abdullah Maute at the Ragayan, Butig, Lanao Del Sur on Feb. 25, 2016 that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy thereby showcasing extreme stability under fire and keeping up with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery."
Balidoc is also the team leader of Naval Special Operations Unit-8.
The Distinguished Conduct Star is given to military personnel of the AFP for singular/personal acts of conspicious courage and gallantry in the face of armed enemy.
Maravilla, a Bachelor of Science of Biology graduate, was conferred the Gold Cross Medal, "for gallantry in action during an encounter against more or less 100 fully armed Abu Sayyaf Group who were involved in several high-profile kidnappings at Sitio Makaita, Barangay Bungkaong, Patikul, Sulu last Aug. 26, 2016 that inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy and recovery of numerous war materiel through superb combat leadership and tactical acumen."
The Gold Cross Medal is usually handed to military personnel of the AFP for singular/personal acts of gallantry in action not warranting the award of the Distinguished Conduct Star.
Barbadillo was also given this medal for gallantry in action while serving as the leading sniper of the Special Operations Platoon of the Marine Landing Team-6 tasked as main effort to conduct law enforcement patrol to neutralize the armed group of Jaafar Sabiwang Maguid, a local terrorist believed to be linked with the foreign terrorist group ISIS at Sinapingan, Barangay Butril Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat last Nov. 26, 2015.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=950055
AFP chief Año cites solid peace gains as military celebrates 81st founding anniversary
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 21): AFP chief Año cites solid peace gains as military celebrates 81st founding anniversary
As the Armed Forces of the Philippines celebrates its 81st founding anniversary Wednesday, AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año said the military has made solid gains in winning the peace and preserving strong alliances.
"In the area of internal security, to-date, 71 provinces are now Conflict-Manageable and Ready for Further Development, with six more provinces declared in 2016, namely: Agusan Del Norte, Surigao Del Sur, Agusan Del Sur, Compostela Valley, Quezon Province and Occidental Mindoro," he said.
The AFP chief also said the impact of Internal Peace Security Program "Bayanihan" was felt across the Philippines islands, as the whole-of-nation approach to the challenge of winning the peace has forged dynamic partnerships to enable far-flung and indigenous communities.
The latter aims to “provide the strategic guidance in the performance of (the AFP’s) mandated functions of protecting the state and the people. It shall help AFP units in planning for and contributing to the attainment of internal peace and security,” he said.
"Bayanihan" was first implemented on Dec. 22, 2010 and is scheduled to end this year.
"Momentum is our side and we are setting our sights on doing more in the days ahead. With the AFP's track record over the last eight decades, the current and future goals can only mean good things for our country and our people," Año said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=950066
As the Armed Forces of the Philippines celebrates its 81st founding anniversary Wednesday, AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año said the military has made solid gains in winning the peace and preserving strong alliances.
"In the area of internal security, to-date, 71 provinces are now Conflict-Manageable and Ready for Further Development, with six more provinces declared in 2016, namely: Agusan Del Norte, Surigao Del Sur, Agusan Del Sur, Compostela Valley, Quezon Province and Occidental Mindoro," he said.
The AFP chief also said the impact of Internal Peace Security Program "Bayanihan" was felt across the Philippines islands, as the whole-of-nation approach to the challenge of winning the peace has forged dynamic partnerships to enable far-flung and indigenous communities.
The latter aims to “provide the strategic guidance in the performance of (the AFP’s) mandated functions of protecting the state and the people. It shall help AFP units in planning for and contributing to the attainment of internal peace and security,” he said.
"Bayanihan" was first implemented on Dec. 22, 2010 and is scheduled to end this year.
"Momentum is our side and we are setting our sights on doing more in the days ahead. With the AFP's track record over the last eight decades, the current and future goals can only mean good things for our country and our people," Año said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=950066
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