Military chief orders increased patrols with Malaysia, Indonesia

From Malaysia Business Insight (Nov 6): Military chief orders increased patrols with Malaysia, Indonesia

ARMED Forces chief Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero has ordered “increased coordinated patrols” with the Malaysian and Indonesian militaries to combat transnational crimes in the waters of the three countries.

“We will also increase the frequency of our coordinated patrols with our ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) counterparts in order to prevent the use of our common maritime borders for illegal activities,” he said.

Guerrero’s directive was contained in a “command guidance” he issued shortly after assuming the top military post on October 26. The guidance outlines the AFP chief’s courses of action and orders for the line units and offices.

Guerrero is hoping to enhance border security with Malaysia and Indonesia through the June 2017 Trilateral Cooperation Agreement which wants to end kidnapping, trafficking, and transit of terrorists in the Sulu Sea.

Members of the Abu Sayyaf have abducted a number of foreign and Filipino victims in the waters of the three countries, and brought the victims to Sulu and Basilan, its main area of operations.

The latest kidnapping was on October 14 off Pangutaran town in the waters of Sulu. The Abu Sayyaf is holding at least 18 kidnap victims in Sulu.

Guerrero reiterated the military’s intent to develop a credible defense force by strengthening the capabilities of the Navy and the Air Force so they will be more effective in monitoring and controlling sea lanes and air space.

Guerrero assumed the post on October 26, the day Eduardo Año reached the mandatory retirement age of 56. Guerrero is reaching the retirement age on December 17. President Duterte has the prerogative to extend the tour of duty of Guerrero who is said to be close to the Duterte family.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-chief-orders-increased-patrols-malaysia-indonesia