From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 18): AFP (doesn’t) recommend martial law
Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that there is no need for President Rodrigo Duterte to impose martial law.
AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said at a press briefing that the AFP are able to operate and catch all the people who have been committing violence.
“Currently, we are able to accomplish our mission without the complexity of needing to have any kind of special rule applied,” Padilla said.
Last Sunday, Duterte stated that no one could stop him from declaring martial law if the drug threat has turned “something really very virulent.”
Duterte emphasized that he will declare it not because of invasion or insurrection but to preserve the nation.
On the other hand, Padilla said that if the president declares martial law, the AFP will support it. (LMC/MF)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/18/afp-dont-recommend-martial-law/
Thursday, January 19, 2017
DWDD: ANTI-TERRORISM UPDATE | 3 members of AKP arrested
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 18): ANTI-TERRORISM UPDATE | 3 members of AKP arrested
Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City — Prior to President Rodrigo Duterte’s scheduled visit in Maasim, Sarangani, the Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified its efforts to weaken the force of 3 members of Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) arrested.
Three members of AKP were arrested named Zaidon Nilong, Danny Yang, and Mario Suib Linggay.
Police recovered a grenade from Nilong, sachets of suspected shabu from Yang, and a .45 Caliber Pistol from Linggay.
Polomolok Municipal Police Station took the custody of the three and scheduled to file charges in court today.
Linggay claimed to be an internal asset of 6th Infantry Division while Nilong is said to be a 2nd-degree cousin of Abdul Basit Usman who is the founder of AKP Southern Mindanao.
Nilong reportedly allowed the AKP to use their old MNLF camp in Barangay Aflek, T’boli where some members of AKP from Maguindanao are hiding.
On the other hand, Regional Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operation Task Force (RAIDSOTF) searched the house of Nilong’s brother, Lapu Brgy. Capt. Abdullah Nilong, and Redzkie Dumato but nothing illegal was found. MCAG/LMC/MF
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/18/anti-terrorism-update-3-members-of-akp-arrested/
Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City — Prior to President Rodrigo Duterte’s scheduled visit in Maasim, Sarangani, the Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified its efforts to weaken the force of 3 members of Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) arrested.
Three members of AKP were arrested named Zaidon Nilong, Danny Yang, and Mario Suib Linggay.
Police recovered a grenade from Nilong, sachets of suspected shabu from Yang, and a .45 Caliber Pistol from Linggay.
Polomolok Municipal Police Station took the custody of the three and scheduled to file charges in court today.
Linggay claimed to be an internal asset of 6th Infantry Division while Nilong is said to be a 2nd-degree cousin of Abdul Basit Usman who is the founder of AKP Southern Mindanao.
Nilong reportedly allowed the AKP to use their old MNLF camp in Barangay Aflek, T’boli where some members of AKP from Maguindanao are hiding.
On the other hand, Regional Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operation Task Force (RAIDSOTF) searched the house of Nilong’s brother, Lapu Brgy. Capt. Abdullah Nilong, and Redzkie Dumato but nothing illegal was found. MCAG/LMC/MF
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/18/anti-terrorism-update-3-members-of-akp-arrested/
DWDD: ALWAYS READY TO HELP | AFP 4th I.D. Continues its Ops in Cagayan De Oro
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 20): ALWAYS READY TO HELP | AFP 4th I.D. Continues its Ops in Cagayan De Oro
Camp Aguinaldo — Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla gave an update on the hard efforts of the troops in the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in line with the massive floods brought by the recent low-pressure area in Cagayan De Oro.
The troops were advised by the local government to ‘retrograde’ or diminish their hard efforts in the said area since the weather had already been better.
As of now, only 20 families are left in Camp Evangelista, and they are waiting for the advice on when they can go back to their respective homes.
The current mode of operation in Eastern Mindanao area, according to Padilla is clean-up drive and a total of 1,000 personnel to assist.
The total number of casualties is yet to be updated, but Padilla regretfully said that there are reported deaths despite warnings and advisories sent to the public since a lot of citizens do not have access to cell phone and radio.
“I can assure you the Armed Forces will always be ready to provide assistance in the event of any similar weather disturbance such as this,” Padilla stated. – EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/19/always-ready-to-help-afp-4th-i-d-continues-its-ops-in-cagayan-de-oro/
Camp Aguinaldo — Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla gave an update on the hard efforts of the troops in the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in line with the massive floods brought by the recent low-pressure area in Cagayan De Oro.
The troops were advised by the local government to ‘retrograde’ or diminish their hard efforts in the said area since the weather had already been better.
As of now, only 20 families are left in Camp Evangelista, and they are waiting for the advice on when they can go back to their respective homes.
The current mode of operation in Eastern Mindanao area, according to Padilla is clean-up drive and a total of 1,000 personnel to assist.
The total number of casualties is yet to be updated, but Padilla regretfully said that there are reported deaths despite warnings and advisories sent to the public since a lot of citizens do not have access to cell phone and radio.
“I can assure you the Armed Forces will always be ready to provide assistance in the event of any similar weather disturbance such as this,” Padilla stated. – EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/19/always-ready-to-help-afp-4th-i-d-continues-its-ops-in-cagayan-de-oro/
DWDD: Dalawang Filipino Hostage ng ASG, nasagip sa Sulu
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 20): Dalawang Filipino Hostage ng ASG, nasagip sa Sulu
Nasagip na ang dalawang Filipinong hostage ng Abu Sayyaf kahapon ng umaga sa Indanan, Sulu.
Nakipag-ugnayan ang Joint Task Force Sulu (JFTS) sa Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) at kinilala ang mga pinalayang hostages na sina Dolcesimo Alimires at Esteban Janamjanm.
Sa pangunguna ni Lt. Col. Arnel Baccay ng Air Intelligence Service Group at ni Lt. Col. Yusop Hassan ng Joint Intelligence Task Force Sulu, ay nai-rescue ang mga hostages sa Barangay Tagbak, Indanan.
Agad namang dinala sa JTFS headquarters sa Camp Teodulfo Bautista ang mga biktima.
Inamin ng mga biktima na may kasama silang dalawang escort mula sa ASG at ihahatid sila sa panigbagong area sa Parang, Sulu nang biglang dumating ang tropa ng gobyerno.
Agad namang tumakas ang dalawang escort matapos nilang matunugang may presensya ng government forces sa lugar. -EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/20/dalawang-filipino-hostage-ng-asg-nasagip-sa-sulu/
Nasagip na ang dalawang Filipinong hostage ng Abu Sayyaf kahapon ng umaga sa Indanan, Sulu.
Nakipag-ugnayan ang Joint Task Force Sulu (JFTS) sa Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) at kinilala ang mga pinalayang hostages na sina Dolcesimo Alimires at Esteban Janamjanm.
Sa pangunguna ni Lt. Col. Arnel Baccay ng Air Intelligence Service Group at ni Lt. Col. Yusop Hassan ng Joint Intelligence Task Force Sulu, ay nai-rescue ang mga hostages sa Barangay Tagbak, Indanan.
Agad namang dinala sa JTFS headquarters sa Camp Teodulfo Bautista ang mga biktima.
Inamin ng mga biktima na may kasama silang dalawang escort mula sa ASG at ihahatid sila sa panigbagong area sa Parang, Sulu nang biglang dumating ang tropa ng gobyerno.
Agad namang tumakas ang dalawang escort matapos nilang matunugang may presensya ng government forces sa lugar. -EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/20/dalawang-filipino-hostage-ng-asg-nasagip-sa-sulu/
DWDD: Sec. Lorenzana nakipagpulong sa mga sundalo na nasa Sibutu Island
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 20): Sec. Lorenzana nakipagpulong sa mga sundalo na nasa Sibutu Island
Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City — Pumunta si Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana at ilan pang matataas na opisyal ng Armed Forces of the Philippines sa Sibutu Island upang bisitahin ang mga tropa na naroon at para na rin maipakita ang suporta sa kampanya ng pamahalaan laban sa terorismo, kidnapping, piracy at iligal na droga.
Kasama sina AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Ano, Army Chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Navy chief Vice Amiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, Air Force Chief Lt. General edgar Fallorina at labing isa pang mga heneral at flag officers.
Pinangunahan ni Lorenzana ang pagpupulong kasama ang municipal at baranggay officials kasama si Sibutu Mayor Alshefa Pajiji at mga military commanders sa Tawi-tawi.
Binigyang-diin niLorenzana ang kahalagahan ng pakikipag-kooperasyon ng mga local leaders para sa ikabubuti ng bansa.
Siniguro pa niya ang kanyang masugid na pag-suporta para makatulong sa pagsugpo ng kriminal na gawain ng Abu Sayyaf at iba pang problema sa bansa.
Malaking pasasalamat naman ang inihatid ni Mayor Pajiji sa kalihim dahil umano sa pag reach out nito sa kanila. -EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/20/sec-lorenzana-nakipagpulong-sa-mga-sundalo-na-nasa-sibutu-islan/
Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City — Pumunta si Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana at ilan pang matataas na opisyal ng Armed Forces of the Philippines sa Sibutu Island upang bisitahin ang mga tropa na naroon at para na rin maipakita ang suporta sa kampanya ng pamahalaan laban sa terorismo, kidnapping, piracy at iligal na droga.
Kasama sina AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Ano, Army Chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Navy chief Vice Amiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, Air Force Chief Lt. General edgar Fallorina at labing isa pang mga heneral at flag officers.
Pinangunahan ni Lorenzana ang pagpupulong kasama ang municipal at baranggay officials kasama si Sibutu Mayor Alshefa Pajiji at mga military commanders sa Tawi-tawi.
Binigyang-diin niLorenzana ang kahalagahan ng pakikipag-kooperasyon ng mga local leaders para sa ikabubuti ng bansa.
Siniguro pa niya ang kanyang masugid na pag-suporta para makatulong sa pagsugpo ng kriminal na gawain ng Abu Sayyaf at iba pang problema sa bansa.
Malaking pasasalamat naman ang inihatid ni Mayor Pajiji sa kalihim dahil umano sa pag reach out nito sa kanila. -EPJA
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/20/sec-lorenzana-nakipagpulong-sa-mga-sundalo-na-nasa-sibutu-islan/
MILF: BDA-CenMin facilitates Relief Distribution and Feeding of Cotabato City Fire Victims
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jan 19): BDA-CenMin facilitates Relief Distribution and Feeding of Cotabato City Fire Victims
The Bangsamoro Development Agency-Central Mindanao (BDA-CenMin) facilitated relief distribution and feeding program for fire victims in Tukananes, Poblacion 7, Cotabato City last January 8 and 12, 2017, that catered to more than 160 recipients and over 200 children, respectively.
In an interview with Hasna Kadil, Administrative Assistant of BDA-CenMin, by Communication Group of the Agency, she said that the relief assistances were made up of 3 kilos of rice and 3 packs of used clothes.
As part of our intervention, we also conducted feeding of 200 children, and luckily, not only the children of fire victims were served but also other victims of the conflagration, Kadil further clarified.
Along with the feeding program, psychosocial intervention was also conducted for the target children taking into consideration their traumatic experience as an effect of the fire incident, said Anuar Cabalo, Peace Building Program Coordinator of BDA-CenMin.
Conducting psychosocial intervention for the affected children does not mean treating their conditions but was designed to promote their mental health, emotions, attitudes and habits, added Cabalu.
Abdnulnasser Akmad, Social Welfare Program (SWP) Coordinator of BDA-CenMin, in his feed back to the agency’s ComGroup explained that said activity was realized through the collaborative efforts of the following, such as: BDA-Central Management Office, BDA-CenMIn, Provincial Development Committee of Bandar, Nurusslam, Ittihadun Nisa Foundation, Inc, Social Welfare Committee, and other compassionate personalities or individuals.
Akmad, appealed to organizations and potential donors to extend assistance to the fire victims with the BDA-CenMin commits itself to facilitate further intervention through distribution.
Abdulrasheed B. Ambil, BDA-CenMin Regional Manager in his message, expressed thanks and gratitude to the organizations and individuals for extending assistance and for their trust and confidence to BDA in facilitating the interventions.
May Allah Subhanahu wa Taalah rewads us all in this world and in the hereafter, concluded Ambil.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/1038-bda-cenmin-facilitates-relief-distribution-and-feeding-of-cotabato-city-fire-victims
The Bangsamoro Development Agency-Central Mindanao (BDA-CenMin) facilitated relief distribution and feeding program for fire victims in Tukananes, Poblacion 7, Cotabato City last January 8 and 12, 2017, that catered to more than 160 recipients and over 200 children, respectively.
In an interview with Hasna Kadil, Administrative Assistant of BDA-CenMin, by Communication Group of the Agency, she said that the relief assistances were made up of 3 kilos of rice and 3 packs of used clothes.
As part of our intervention, we also conducted feeding of 200 children, and luckily, not only the children of fire victims were served but also other victims of the conflagration, Kadil further clarified.
Along with the feeding program, psychosocial intervention was also conducted for the target children taking into consideration their traumatic experience as an effect of the fire incident, said Anuar Cabalo, Peace Building Program Coordinator of BDA-CenMin.
Conducting psychosocial intervention for the affected children does not mean treating their conditions but was designed to promote their mental health, emotions, attitudes and habits, added Cabalu.
Abdnulnasser Akmad, Social Welfare Program (SWP) Coordinator of BDA-CenMin, in his feed back to the agency’s ComGroup explained that said activity was realized through the collaborative efforts of the following, such as: BDA-Central Management Office, BDA-CenMIn, Provincial Development Committee of Bandar, Nurusslam, Ittihadun Nisa Foundation, Inc, Social Welfare Committee, and other compassionate personalities or individuals.
Akmad, appealed to organizations and potential donors to extend assistance to the fire victims with the BDA-CenMin commits itself to facilitate further intervention through distribution.
Abdulrasheed B. Ambil, BDA-CenMin Regional Manager in his message, expressed thanks and gratitude to the organizations and individuals for extending assistance and for their trust and confidence to BDA in facilitating the interventions.
May Allah Subhanahu wa Taalah rewads us all in this world and in the hereafter, concluded Ambil.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/1038-bda-cenmin-facilitates-relief-distribution-and-feeding-of-cotabato-city-fire-victims
MILF: 1st Bangsamoro Leaders Dialogue held in Davao City
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jan 19): 1st Bangsamoro Leaders Dialogue held in Davao City
The Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) sponsored a dialogue between key leaders of Moro National Liberation Front and Moro Islamic Liberation Front on January 14-15, 2017, in Davao City.
The dialogue aimed at bringing together opinions and ideas about the situation of Bangsamoro as the peace process is going on. In attendance were about forty personalities from both the MNLF and MILF. To mention a few, Datu Romeo Sema, Datu Randy Karon, Ustadz Pendi Colano, Jimmy Labawan, Duma Sani, Judge Casan-Ali L. Limbona and Haja Bainon Karon.
Others who were also present were MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, Architect Edward Uy Guerra, Ibrahim Ali, Abdullah Camlian, Jun Mantawil, Haron Meling, Engr Aida Silongan.
The dialogue resulted into an agreement that MNLF and MILF will support and continue the work of the joint peace mechanisms (technical working groups, BTC and BCF), to preserve the gains of the peace processes and bring just and lasting peace in the communities of Bangsamoro region and the rest of Mindanao.
Both parties have also agreed to participate in various dialogues and meetings which shall serve as avenues to discuss important issues faced by Bangsamoro communities.
The dialogue of brothers-in-struggle, though may have not met for quite a period of time had been very warm and accommodating for each other’s idea and opinion for indeed the common interest is how to achieve Right to Self- Determination of the Bangsamoro nation.
BLMI Executive Directo Ustadz Mahmod S. Ahmad and Abdulwahab Guialal performed the tasks of organizers and facilitators, respectively.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/1039-1st-bangsamoro-leaders-dialogue-held-in-davao-city
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/1039-1st-bangsamoro-leaders-dialogue-held-in-davao-city
The Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) sponsored a dialogue between key leaders of Moro National Liberation Front and Moro Islamic Liberation Front on January 14-15, 2017, in Davao City.
Others who were also present were MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, Architect Edward Uy Guerra, Ibrahim Ali, Abdullah Camlian, Jun Mantawil, Haron Meling, Engr Aida Silongan.
The dialogue resulted into an agreement that MNLF and MILF will support and continue the work of the joint peace mechanisms (technical working groups, BTC and BCF), to preserve the gains of the peace processes and bring just and lasting peace in the communities of Bangsamoro region and the rest of Mindanao.
Both parties have also agreed to participate in various dialogues and meetings which shall serve as avenues to discuss important issues faced by Bangsamoro communities.
The dialogue of brothers-in-struggle, though may have not met for quite a period of time had been very warm and accommodating for each other’s idea and opinion for indeed the common interest is how to achieve Right to Self- Determination of the Bangsamoro nation.
BLMI Executive Directo Ustadz Mahmod S. Ahmad and Abdulwahab Guialal performed the tasks of organizers and facilitators, respectively.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/1039-1st-bangsamoro-leaders-dialogue-held-in-davao-city
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/1039-1st-bangsamoro-leaders-dialogue-held-in-davao-city
NDF: NDFP protests GRP violations of CARHRIHL and JASIG
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jan 18): NDFP protests GRP violations of CARHRIHL and JASIG
NDFP Media Office
The NDFP Negotiating Panel has formally raised with the GRP Negotiating Panel its complaints over the continuing violations by the GRP of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG). These violations place into serious question the sincerity of the GRP in its peace negotiations with the NDFP. For if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?
The NDFP Negotiating Panel cited the following cases:
FIDEL V. AGCAOILI
Chairperson
NDFP Negotiating Panel
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-protests-grp-violations-carhrihl-jasig/
NDFP Media Office
NDFP archive photo
The NDFP Negotiating Panel has formally raised with the GRP Negotiating Panel its complaints over the continuing violations by the GRP of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG). These violations place into serious question the sincerity of the GRP in its peace negotiations with the NDFP. For if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?
The NDFP Negotiating Panel cited the following cases:
- Three JASIG-protected NDFP consultants, namely Eduardo Sarmiento, Emeterio Antalan and Leopoldo Caloza were arrested and convicted on trumped-up charges. To facilitate their release and enable them to participate in the ongoing GRP-NDFP peace negotiations, the GRP panel suggested that the consultants withdraw their appeals to pave the way for the granting of presidential pardon. As a result, their conviction became final. But until now, they have not been pardoned and continue to languish in prison. This is not only a violation of CARHRIHL and JASIG but also a serious betrayal of trust.
- Since August 2016, several of the recently released JASIG-protected consultants have been subjected to surveillance and harassment by motorcycle-riding men. Despite a protest filed with the GRP panel, the surveillance and harassment continued, obliging the consultants to take counter measures. Under JASIG, NDFP personnel involved in the peace negotiations are protected from surveillance and harassment and have the right to carry firearms as a means to secure their own safety.
- The NDFP has demanded justice for the enforced disappearance of JASIG-protected persons Leo Velasco, Prudencio Calubid, his wife and relatives; Rogelio Calubad and his son; Nestor Entice and his wife; Leopoldo Ancheta; and Philip Limjoco; as well as the murder of Sotero Llamas. These war crimes were committed during the time of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. To date, the GRP has not taken any action on this just demand.
- Despite the unilateral ceasefire declared by the GRP, its military and police forces have continued with their military operations against communities suspected to be under the control of, influenced by, or sympathetic to, the revolutionary movement on the pretext of conducting so-called peace and development projects. They occupy schools, health and day care centers, barangay halls, public plazas, and even bus stops and private residences in more than 43 provinces and 146 municipalities all over the country. They conduct illegal searches and interrogations to identify relatives of NPA members as well as supporters and sympathizers of the revolutionary movement to terrorize the people. They impose food blockades and restrictions on the movement of residents, disrupting their economic activities.
- The GRP’s war on drugs has raised concerns from reputable human rights and lawyers’ organizations like KARAPATAN and NUPL over the killing of innocent people due to brutal, reckless and indiscriminate methods employed by the police in its anti-drug operations. In addition, the war on drugs deals only with the symptom and not the disease which is poverty. President Duterte must shift his priority to solving the bigger problem of poverty through the necessary social and economic reforms that are the main focus of the third round of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations.
- Close to 400 political detainees continue to languish in various detention facilities nationwide. Most of them have been slapped with trumped-up criminal cases, making their continued detention a violation of the Hernandez political offense doctrine enshrined in both the CARHRIHL and the GRP’s laws. President Duterte himself has pledged to put a stop to the practice of criminalizing political dissent in compliance with the Hernandez political offense doctrine.
- Victims of human rights violations under the Marcos martial law regime have not been rendered justice and indemnified, in violation of the CARHRIHL.
- The hero’s burial accorded to Ferdinand Marcos virtually completes the political rehabilitation of the Marcoses and the revision of the historical judgment against the crimes of the Marcos family. Justice to the Marcos victims has become even more remote.
- These grave violations of the CARHRIHL and JASIG and the broken promises on the release of political prisoners have made the extension of the NDFP’s unilateral ceasefire untenable. The prospect for forging a bilateral ceasefire agreement has grown dim.
- The ball is in the GRP’s court. It must release all political prisoners in compliance with CARHRIHL and JASIG and fulfill the oft-repeated promises of President Duterte and his subalterns in the GRP Negotiating Panel. It must stop its continuing violation of both CARHRIHL and JASIG so that the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations can go forward in completing the Comprehensive Agreements on Social and Economic Reforms (SER) and Political and Constitutional Reforms (PCR); proceed to their implementation; and pave the way for just and lasting peace.
FIDEL V. AGCAOILI
Chairperson
NDFP Negotiating Panel
https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-protests-grp-violations-carhrihl-jasig/
NDF: Statement at Opening Ceremonies of Third Round of Talks in Rome (Sison)
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jan 19): Statement at Opening Ceremonies of Third Round of Talks in Rome
By Prof. Jose Maria Sison
Chief Political Consultant
National Democratic Front of the Philippines
His Excellency, Eric Forner, Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Government to the Philippines, Her Excellency, Ambassador Elisabeth Slattom, special envoy of the Royal Norwegian Government to the Philippine Peace Process, and His Excellency Foreign Secretary the Hon. Perfecto Yasay,
Dear Compatriots in the Negotiating Panels and Delegations of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, and
Distinguished guests and friends,
As Chief Political Consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, I reiterate to all of you the warmest greetings and best wishes of the NDFP for solidarity and peace in the new year and our deep gratitude to the Royal Government of Norway for consistently supporting the Philippines peace process and facilitating this third round of formal talks in the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations and to the Government of Italy for cooperating and letting Rome be the venue of the current round.
As in the previous two rounds of formal talks in Oslo, I continue to declare that the two negotiating panels can negotiate in a nonadversarial way and overcome any obstacle by addressing the roots of the armed conflict and seeking to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms in order to lay the foundation of a just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.
In my telephone conversation with President Duterte last month, we discussed in earnest how to make the GRP-NDFP negotiations successful. I am pleased that President Duterte has publicly expressed few days ago the wish to meet with me at a certain point after the third round of formal talks and to take necessary measures to ensure further advance of the peace negotiations.
It is important that at every round of formal talks, the GRP and NDFP review and require compliance with the already existing agreements. Each side has its own concerns regarding these. The NDFP is grateful for last year’s release of the NDFP consultants detained in violation of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). The NDFP continues to expect the release of the hundreds of political prisoners in compliance with the CARHRIHL and JASIG.
The concurrent or reciprocal unilateral declarations of ceasefire by the GRP and NDFP can be easily turned into a more stable bilateral ceasefire if the GRP complies with the CARHRIHL by releasing all political prisoners listed by the NDFP who have been unjustly and wrongly imprisoned on trumped up charges of common crimes. The most effective remedy for such release is through general amnesty as President Duterte himself told the NDFP emissary in May 2016.
In view of the apparent political rehabilitation of the fascist dictator Marcos with his burial in the Libingan ng mga Bayani, the NDFP has been concerned about adverse consequences to the provisions in CARHRIHL for justice and indemnification of the victims of human rights and violations during the Marcos regime. It seeks an assurance from President Duterte and the GRP that said provisions will continue to be respected and complied with. At any rate, I am glad that in advance of the third round President Duterte assured the aforesaid victims that they would be indemnified promptly and properly.
The NDFP is seriously concerned with violations of the CARHRIHL and the unilateral ceasefire arising from Oplan Bayanihan and Oplan Kapayapaan and from the anti-drugs campaign Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel. In this regard, we the NDFP expect the GRP to comply with CARHRIHL.The Joint Monitoring Committee received complaints for investigation and appropriate action.
Ahead of the third round of formal talks, the Filipino people are expecting the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms to make a significant advance. Both RWCs have already fleshed out the common outline of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) and can indeed make a significant headway in the current round in reconciling their respective draft and agree on how to accelerate the unification of the drafts by holding bilateral draft sessions by teams before the fourth round.
The prospect is in sight that within six months the CASER shall already be ready for signing by the panels and everyone will understand how genuine land reform, national industrialization and expansion of social services shall be realized. The GRP and NDFP should be truly interested in social, economic and political reforms. The Filipino people want to end the oppressive and exploitative ruling system dominated by foreign monopoly capitalists, domestic landlords and capitalist bureaucrats.
With regard to political and constitutional reforms, the NDFP holds the view that there are good and viable examples of both unitary and federal forms of state. A federal system of government is not necessarily good or better than a unitary form of state, especially when it carries over from an already rotten unitary form of state certain malignancies and does not have constitutional guarantees against the penchant of the oligarchy for puppetry, dictatorship, graft and corruption, dynasty-building and warlordism.
The NDFP is willing to maintain its alliance with the GRP and the Duterte administration in particular by cooperating in the founding of the Federal Republic of the Philippines, creating a parliamentary system and making a new constitution that upholds, defends and promotes national independence, democracy, economic development, social justice, cultural progress, independent foreign policy and international solidarity with peoples and all countries for peace and development.
The Reciprocal Working Groups on Political and Constitutional Reforms of both panels have already finished and exchanged their drafts of the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms. They have advanced ahead of schedule. There is plenty of time to enrich and polish these drafts even while CASER is still being negotiated. It will not be surprising if after the signing of the CASER by the panels, it will take one or two rounds of talks or some three months after the forging of CASER to finish the CAPCR for signing by the panels.
The advantage of having the CASER and CAPCR signed and approved by the principals within the first two years of the Duterte government is that these agreements shall be implemented for at least two years before the end of said government. If implemented to the satisfaction of the Filipino people and the NDFP, these agreements shall lay the full basis of the Comprehensive Agreement on the End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces as early as 2020-21. The leaders, officers and troops of the warring parties can expect to benefit from a mutual general amnesty.
The Filipino people, the NDFP and its forces continue to hope that the peace negotiations will successfully pass through the following tests and phases: the amnesty and release of all political prisoners in compliance with CARHRIHL, the forging of CASER and CAPCR, the implementation of the three priorly cited agreements and the forging and finalization of the EHDF.
In various ways, President Duterte can prove in real and concrete terms that he is truly a patriotic and progressive president and fights against the imperialists and oligarchs for the benefit of the people. The GRP-NDFP peace process is one of the best ways to do so. And other ways follow easily, when the good agreements are implemented and the broad masses of the people are aroused, organized and mobilized to act for their own good along the national and democratic line. Thank you.
https://www.ndfp.org/statement-opening-ceremonies-third-round-talks-rome/
By Prof. Jose Maria Sison
Chief Political Consultant
National Democratic Front of the Philippines
His Excellency, Eric Forner, Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Government to the Philippines, Her Excellency, Ambassador Elisabeth Slattom, special envoy of the Royal Norwegian Government to the Philippine Peace Process, and His Excellency Foreign Secretary the Hon. Perfecto Yasay,
Dear Compatriots in the Negotiating Panels and Delegations of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, and
Distinguished guests and friends,
As Chief Political Consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, I reiterate to all of you the warmest greetings and best wishes of the NDFP for solidarity and peace in the new year and our deep gratitude to the Royal Government of Norway for consistently supporting the Philippines peace process and facilitating this third round of formal talks in the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations and to the Government of Italy for cooperating and letting Rome be the venue of the current round.
As in the previous two rounds of formal talks in Oslo, I continue to declare that the two negotiating panels can negotiate in a nonadversarial way and overcome any obstacle by addressing the roots of the armed conflict and seeking to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms in order to lay the foundation of a just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.
In my telephone conversation with President Duterte last month, we discussed in earnest how to make the GRP-NDFP negotiations successful. I am pleased that President Duterte has publicly expressed few days ago the wish to meet with me at a certain point after the third round of formal talks and to take necessary measures to ensure further advance of the peace negotiations.
It is important that at every round of formal talks, the GRP and NDFP review and require compliance with the already existing agreements. Each side has its own concerns regarding these. The NDFP is grateful for last year’s release of the NDFP consultants detained in violation of the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). The NDFP continues to expect the release of the hundreds of political prisoners in compliance with the CARHRIHL and JASIG.
The concurrent or reciprocal unilateral declarations of ceasefire by the GRP and NDFP can be easily turned into a more stable bilateral ceasefire if the GRP complies with the CARHRIHL by releasing all political prisoners listed by the NDFP who have been unjustly and wrongly imprisoned on trumped up charges of common crimes. The most effective remedy for such release is through general amnesty as President Duterte himself told the NDFP emissary in May 2016.
In view of the apparent political rehabilitation of the fascist dictator Marcos with his burial in the Libingan ng mga Bayani, the NDFP has been concerned about adverse consequences to the provisions in CARHRIHL for justice and indemnification of the victims of human rights and violations during the Marcos regime. It seeks an assurance from President Duterte and the GRP that said provisions will continue to be respected and complied with. At any rate, I am glad that in advance of the third round President Duterte assured the aforesaid victims that they would be indemnified promptly and properly.
The NDFP is seriously concerned with violations of the CARHRIHL and the unilateral ceasefire arising from Oplan Bayanihan and Oplan Kapayapaan and from the anti-drugs campaign Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel. In this regard, we the NDFP expect the GRP to comply with CARHRIHL.The Joint Monitoring Committee received complaints for investigation and appropriate action.
Ahead of the third round of formal talks, the Filipino people are expecting the Reciprocal Working Committees on Social and Economic Reforms to make a significant advance. Both RWCs have already fleshed out the common outline of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) and can indeed make a significant headway in the current round in reconciling their respective draft and agree on how to accelerate the unification of the drafts by holding bilateral draft sessions by teams before the fourth round.
The prospect is in sight that within six months the CASER shall already be ready for signing by the panels and everyone will understand how genuine land reform, national industrialization and expansion of social services shall be realized. The GRP and NDFP should be truly interested in social, economic and political reforms. The Filipino people want to end the oppressive and exploitative ruling system dominated by foreign monopoly capitalists, domestic landlords and capitalist bureaucrats.
With regard to political and constitutional reforms, the NDFP holds the view that there are good and viable examples of both unitary and federal forms of state. A federal system of government is not necessarily good or better than a unitary form of state, especially when it carries over from an already rotten unitary form of state certain malignancies and does not have constitutional guarantees against the penchant of the oligarchy for puppetry, dictatorship, graft and corruption, dynasty-building and warlordism.
The NDFP is willing to maintain its alliance with the GRP and the Duterte administration in particular by cooperating in the founding of the Federal Republic of the Philippines, creating a parliamentary system and making a new constitution that upholds, defends and promotes national independence, democracy, economic development, social justice, cultural progress, independent foreign policy and international solidarity with peoples and all countries for peace and development.
The Reciprocal Working Groups on Political and Constitutional Reforms of both panels have already finished and exchanged their drafts of the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms. They have advanced ahead of schedule. There is plenty of time to enrich and polish these drafts even while CASER is still being negotiated. It will not be surprising if after the signing of the CASER by the panels, it will take one or two rounds of talks or some three months after the forging of CASER to finish the CAPCR for signing by the panels.
The advantage of having the CASER and CAPCR signed and approved by the principals within the first two years of the Duterte government is that these agreements shall be implemented for at least two years before the end of said government. If implemented to the satisfaction of the Filipino people and the NDFP, these agreements shall lay the full basis of the Comprehensive Agreement on the End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces as early as 2020-21. The leaders, officers and troops of the warring parties can expect to benefit from a mutual general amnesty.
The Filipino people, the NDFP and its forces continue to hope that the peace negotiations will successfully pass through the following tests and phases: the amnesty and release of all political prisoners in compliance with CARHRIHL, the forging of CASER and CAPCR, the implementation of the three priorly cited agreements and the forging and finalization of the EHDF.
In various ways, President Duterte can prove in real and concrete terms that he is truly a patriotic and progressive president and fights against the imperialists and oligarchs for the benefit of the people. The GRP-NDFP peace process is one of the best ways to do so. And other ways follow easily, when the good agreements are implemented and the broad masses of the people are aroused, organized and mobilized to act for their own good along the national and democratic line. Thank you.
https://www.ndfp.org/statement-opening-ceremonies-third-round-talks-rome/
NDF: Opening Speech For The Third Round of Talks in Rome (Agcaoili)
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jan 19): Opening Speech For The Third Round of Talks in Rome
By Fidel V. Agcaoili
Chairperson
Negotiating Panel of the NDFP
Your Excellencies from the Royal Norwegian Government and the Government of Italy,
Dear Countrymen in the Negotiating Panels and Delegations of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, Esteemed guests,
Let me first thank the Royal Norwegian Government for its continuing support to the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations and to the Government of Italy for allowing the third round of talks to be held in Rome.
Our panel comes to this third round ever ready to push the negotiations forward and even accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on the most important topics of Socio-economic Reforms (SER) and Political and Constitutional Reforms (PCR).
But our panel is also mindful of the fact that certain serious obstacles remain to be hurdled if mutual trust and confidence are to be maintained so that the negotiations can move forward.
We have repeatedly raised the issue of the release of all the NDFP-listed political prisoners as a matter of obligation on the part of the GRP under CARHRIHL.We have also been repeatedly assured by our colleagues on the other side of the table. But sadly, close to 392 of these political prisoners remain in jail.
We clearly state today that the release of the above-mentioned political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence-building measure or a gift to the NDFP. It is a matter of justice and an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL. Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.
We have also raised with the other side our concerns over other violations of CARHRIHL and JASIG such as the non-resolution of the enforced disappearance and murder of JASIG-protected NDFP personnel during the Arroyo regime; betrayal of trust in the continued imprisonment of three JASIG-protected NDFP consultants who have been promised presidential pardon; surveillance and harassment of recently released consultants participating in the ongoing peace negotiations; continuing military operations that terrorize communities under the guise of peace and development projects of Oplan Bayanihan; arbitrariness and absence of due process in the anti-drugs campaign; and the failure to render justice and to compensate victims of martial law.
It is for these reasons that the NDFP panel has requested to place compliance with CARHRIHL and JASIG as the first item on the agenda for this third round.
After this, we can proceed to the all-important task of working on the drafts which have been exchanged by the RWC-SER and RWG-PCR.
As I have said earlier, the NDFP panel is willing to accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on SER and PCR so that we can move on to the phase of implementation within the period of the Duterte government.
We must prove to our people that these negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change. They are tired of broken promises from politicians and the failed policies of previous GRP regimes.
While we hope for the acceleration of the process, we must also be realistic and be ready for the possibility that the negotiations may take longer than we hope for. We are happy and grateful for having the assurance of the Royal Norwegian Government of their continuing commitment to support our peace negotiations.
I reiterate the determination of our panel to do everything necessary to make this round successful as well as the successive round of talks. We owe it to our people.
https://www.ndfp.org/opening-speech-third-round-talks-rome/
By Fidel V. Agcaoili
Chairperson
Negotiating Panel of the NDFP
Your Excellencies from the Royal Norwegian Government and the Government of Italy,
Dear Countrymen in the Negotiating Panels and Delegations of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, Esteemed guests,
Let me first thank the Royal Norwegian Government for its continuing support to the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations and to the Government of Italy for allowing the third round of talks to be held in Rome.
Our panel comes to this third round ever ready to push the negotiations forward and even accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on the most important topics of Socio-economic Reforms (SER) and Political and Constitutional Reforms (PCR).
But our panel is also mindful of the fact that certain serious obstacles remain to be hurdled if mutual trust and confidence are to be maintained so that the negotiations can move forward.
We have repeatedly raised the issue of the release of all the NDFP-listed political prisoners as a matter of obligation on the part of the GRP under CARHRIHL.We have also been repeatedly assured by our colleagues on the other side of the table. But sadly, close to 392 of these political prisoners remain in jail.
We clearly state today that the release of the above-mentioned political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence-building measure or a gift to the NDFP. It is a matter of justice and an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL. Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.
We have also raised with the other side our concerns over other violations of CARHRIHL and JASIG such as the non-resolution of the enforced disappearance and murder of JASIG-protected NDFP personnel during the Arroyo regime; betrayal of trust in the continued imprisonment of three JASIG-protected NDFP consultants who have been promised presidential pardon; surveillance and harassment of recently released consultants participating in the ongoing peace negotiations; continuing military operations that terrorize communities under the guise of peace and development projects of Oplan Bayanihan; arbitrariness and absence of due process in the anti-drugs campaign; and the failure to render justice and to compensate victims of martial law.
It is for these reasons that the NDFP panel has requested to place compliance with CARHRIHL and JASIG as the first item on the agenda for this third round.
After this, we can proceed to the all-important task of working on the drafts which have been exchanged by the RWC-SER and RWG-PCR.
As I have said earlier, the NDFP panel is willing to accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on SER and PCR so that we can move on to the phase of implementation within the period of the Duterte government.
We must prove to our people that these negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change. They are tired of broken promises from politicians and the failed policies of previous GRP regimes.
While we hope for the acceleration of the process, we must also be realistic and be ready for the possibility that the negotiations may take longer than we hope for. We are happy and grateful for having the assurance of the Royal Norwegian Government of their continuing commitment to support our peace negotiations.
I reiterate the determination of our panel to do everything necessary to make this round successful as well as the successive round of talks. We owe it to our people.
https://www.ndfp.org/opening-speech-third-round-talks-rome/
NDF: Third round in GRP-NDFP negotiations in Rome opens on optimistic note
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jan 19): Third round in GRP-NDFP negotiations in Rome opens on optimistic note (Press Release)
Press release
Speaking in behalf of the RNG, Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner and Special Ambassador to the Philippines Peace Process Elisabeth Slattum, congratulated the Parties in the negotiations for their commitment and hard work in the previous two rounds and assured both sides of the RNG’s continuing support to the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations saying that “we are here for the long haul.”
In his opening statement, NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison laid out the over-all perspective of the NDFP on the prospects and likely course of the peace talks.
He said, “I continue to declare that the two negotiating panels can negotiate in a non-adversarial way and overcome any obstacle by addressing the roots of the armed conflict and seeking to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms in order to lay the foundation of a just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.”
He revealed his recent telephone conversation with President Duterte in which they “discussed in earnest how to make the negotiations successful.” He also expressed his appreciation for President Duterte’s public announcement of the latter’s wish to have a meeting with him after the third round of talks in a third country and take the necessary measures to ensure the further advance of the negotiations.
To address the strong wish of the GRP for a bilateral ceasefire, he said that the current reciprocal unilateral ceasefires can easily be turned into a more stable bilateral ceasefire if the GRP complies with its obligation under CARHRIHL through amnesty a method promised by Duterte to the current head of the NDFP panel Fidel Agcaoili in May 2016.
Addressing this point, Agcaoili emphasized in his opening speech, “We clearly state today that the release of the above-mentioned political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence building measure or a gift to the NDFP. It is a matter of justice and an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL. Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.”
Sison expressed confidence that agreement on SER can be finished in 6 months. “Both RWCs have already fleshed out the common outline of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) and can indeed make a significant headway in the current round in reconciling their respective draft and agree on how to accelerate the unification of the drafts by holding bilateral draft sessions by teams before the fourth round.”
He further stated, “With regard to political and constitutional reforms, the NDFP holds the view that there are good and viable examples of both unitary and federal forms of state.”
He explained, “The NDFP is willing to maintain its alliance with the GRP and the Duterte administration in particular by cooperating in the founding of the Federal Republic of the Philippines, creating a parliamentary system and making a new constitution that upholds, defends and promotes national independence, democracy, economic development, social justice, cultural progress, independent foreign policy and international solidarity with peoples and all countries for peace and development.”
For his part, Agcaoili reaffirmed the willingness of the NDFP panel to accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on SER and PCR “so that we can move on to the phase of implementation within the period of the Duterte government.”
Explaining why there has to be a period of successful implementation of the CASER and CAPCR for at least 2 years, he said, “We must prove to our people that these negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change. They are tired of broken promises from politicians and the failed policies of previous GRP regimes.”
https://www.ndfp.org/third-round-grp-ndfp-negotiations-rome-opens-optimistic-note/
Press release
Speaking in behalf of the RNG, Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner and Special Ambassador to the Philippines Peace Process Elisabeth Slattum, congratulated the Parties in the negotiations for their commitment and hard work in the previous two rounds and assured both sides of the RNG’s continuing support to the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations saying that “we are here for the long haul.”
In his opening statement, NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison laid out the over-all perspective of the NDFP on the prospects and likely course of the peace talks.
He said, “I continue to declare that the two negotiating panels can negotiate in a non-adversarial way and overcome any obstacle by addressing the roots of the armed conflict and seeking to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms in order to lay the foundation of a just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.”
NDFP photo
He revealed his recent telephone conversation with President Duterte in which they “discussed in earnest how to make the negotiations successful.” He also expressed his appreciation for President Duterte’s public announcement of the latter’s wish to have a meeting with him after the third round of talks in a third country and take the necessary measures to ensure the further advance of the negotiations.
To address the strong wish of the GRP for a bilateral ceasefire, he said that the current reciprocal unilateral ceasefires can easily be turned into a more stable bilateral ceasefire if the GRP complies with its obligation under CARHRIHL through amnesty a method promised by Duterte to the current head of the NDFP panel Fidel Agcaoili in May 2016.
Addressing this point, Agcaoili emphasized in his opening speech, “We clearly state today that the release of the above-mentioned political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence building measure or a gift to the NDFP. It is a matter of justice and an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL. Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.”
Sison expressed confidence that agreement on SER can be finished in 6 months. “Both RWCs have already fleshed out the common outline of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) and can indeed make a significant headway in the current round in reconciling their respective draft and agree on how to accelerate the unification of the drafts by holding bilateral draft sessions by teams before the fourth round.”
He further stated, “With regard to political and constitutional reforms, the NDFP holds the view that there are good and viable examples of both unitary and federal forms of state.”
He explained, “The NDFP is willing to maintain its alliance with the GRP and the Duterte administration in particular by cooperating in the founding of the Federal Republic of the Philippines, creating a parliamentary system and making a new constitution that upholds, defends and promotes national independence, democracy, economic development, social justice, cultural progress, independent foreign policy and international solidarity with peoples and all countries for peace and development.”
For his part, Agcaoili reaffirmed the willingness of the NDFP panel to accelerate the process of forging mutually acceptable comprehensive agreements on SER and PCR “so that we can move on to the phase of implementation within the period of the Duterte government.”
Explaining why there has to be a period of successful implementation of the CASER and CAPCR for at least 2 years, he said, “We must prove to our people that these negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change. They are tired of broken promises from politicians and the failed policies of previous GRP regimes.”
https://www.ndfp.org/third-round-grp-ndfp-negotiations-rome-opens-optimistic-note/
Philippine Navy elite unit secures Miss Universe candidates
From Update.Ph (Jan 19): Philippine Navy elite unit secures Miss Universe candidates
A unit from Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) of Philippine Navy provided security for Miss Universe 2016 candidates who went to Pico de Loro in Nasugbo, Batangas for a photo shoot.
NAVSOG is an elite unit of the Philippine Navy trained in special operations, sabotage, psychological and unconventional warfare which is heavily influenced by the United States Navy SEALs.
Prior to boarding the said yatch, men and women of Philippine Navy who are assigned to headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila got a glimpse of the beautiful women vying for the Miss Universe 2016 crown during a brief stopover at the base Thursday morning.
Sailors also lined up snappily near the edges of the pier, demonstrating the traditional “manning the rail”, a method of saluting or rendering honors, Lincuna added.
http://www.update.ph/2017/01/philippine-navy-elite-unit-secures-miss-universe-candidates/13383
A unit from Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) of Philippine Navy provided security for Miss Universe 2016 candidates who went to Pico de Loro in Nasugbo, Batangas for a photo shoot.
NAVSOG is an elite unit of the Philippine Navy trained in special operations, sabotage, psychological and unconventional warfare which is heavily influenced by the United States Navy SEALs.
The candidates boarded yatch M/V Happy Life.
Sailors also lined up snappily near the edges of the pier, demonstrating the traditional “manning the rail”, a method of saluting or rendering honors, Lincuna added.
http://www.update.ph/2017/01/philippine-navy-elite-unit-secures-miss-universe-candidates/13383
Police arrest 3 in raid vs IS-inspired terror group
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 18): Police arrest 3 in raid vs IS-inspired terror group
Three suspected members of Ansar al-Khilafa Philippines (AKP), a local terror group that authorities said was sympathetic to the Islamic State (IS), were arrested by the police in Polomolok town in South Cotabato province on Tuesday, authorities said on Wednesday.
Supt. Romeo Galgo Jr., Central Mindanao police spokesperson, said police conducted a raid in Polomolok on Tuesday and arrested Abdullah Nilong, his brother Zaidon and Rebskie Dumat.
New leader
Galgo said Abdullah, a former village chief, was believed to have assumed the leadership of AKP in the region, following the death of the group’s leader, Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, alias “Commander Tokboy,” in a shootout with government troops in a resort in Kiamba town in Sarangani province on Jan. 5.
Galgo said a police team, armed with 21 search warrants for illegal possession of firearms and violation of the anti-illegal drugs law, raided a suspected AKP safehouse in Barangay Lapu.
Seized from the suspects were an undetermined amount of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride), assorted firearms, bullets and explosives.
Seven others escaped during the raid, Sebastian said. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/863401/police-arrest-3-in-raid-vs-is-inspired-terror-group
Three suspected members of Ansar al-Khilafa Philippines (AKP), a local terror group that authorities said was sympathetic to the Islamic State (IS), were arrested by the police in Polomolok town in South Cotabato province on Tuesday, authorities said on Wednesday.
Supt. Romeo Galgo Jr., Central Mindanao police spokesperson, said police conducted a raid in Polomolok on Tuesday and arrested Abdullah Nilong, his brother Zaidon and Rebskie Dumat.
New leader
Galgo said Abdullah, a former village chief, was believed to have assumed the leadership of AKP in the region, following the death of the group’s leader, Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, alias “Commander Tokboy,” in a shootout with government troops in a resort in Kiamba town in Sarangani province on Jan. 5.
Seized from the suspects were an undetermined amount of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride), assorted firearms, bullets and explosives.
Seven others escaped during the raid, Sebastian said. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/863401/police-arrest-3-in-raid-vs-is-inspired-terror-group
Ex-MILF rebels get aid from peace panel, World Bank
From the Manila Times (Jan 19): Ex-MILF rebels get aid from peace panel, World Bank
SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao: Families of 145 former rebels belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) received a herd of cattle in assistance from the government peace panel and World Bank representatives in Camp Abubakar, now renamed as Camp Iranun, in Barira town in this province.
Irene Santiago of the government peace panel and her counterpart in the MILF, Mohagher Iqbal, and World Bank representative Matthew Stephens launched socio-economic projects in Camp Iranun to hasten the returnees’ integration into the mainstream of society who decommissioned and turned over their firearms last year.
Among those who benefited from the livestock distribution were widows of guerrillas who were killed in clashes with the military in previous years.
A water supply project worth P2.3 million for farmer families in the camp was also launched.
The activity was capped with a simple commencement rite for 70 villagers in a basic literacy course via a program assisted by the World Bank.
“This is very symbolic. After almost 17 years, both panels came here together to show support and commitment to peace and development,” Stephens said.
The World Bank is helping push the southern peace process forward as main benefactor of the Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF), a source of grants for peace and development projects in underdeveloped conflict-affected areas.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on July 9, 2000 overran Camp Abubakar, which was also the site of a bloody three-week offensive that resulted in the deaths of over a hundred soldiers and MILF fighters.
To the MILF, Camp Abubakar is historic not only because it is their bastion with an elite training camp known as Abubakar Assidique Military Academy but it is also where the house of Udtadz Salamat Hashim, the MILF founder, can be found up to this day.
The 10,000-hectare Camp Iranun is now secured by the Philippine Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion.
The government and the MILF signed on October 15, 2013 the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and subsequently the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro on March 27, 2014.
Enforcement of the agreements is being pursued bilaterally by both panels led by Santiago and Iqbal, now named implementing panels, as agreed during a meeting by government and MILF representatives last year in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
http://www.manilatimes.net/ex-milf-rebels-get-aid-peace-panel-world-bank/307752/
SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao: Families of 145 former rebels belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) received a herd of cattle in assistance from the government peace panel and World Bank representatives in Camp Abubakar, now renamed as Camp Iranun, in Barira town in this province.
Irene Santiago of the government peace panel and her counterpart in the MILF, Mohagher Iqbal, and World Bank representative Matthew Stephens launched socio-economic projects in Camp Iranun to hasten the returnees’ integration into the mainstream of society who decommissioned and turned over their firearms last year.
Among those who benefited from the livestock distribution were widows of guerrillas who were killed in clashes with the military in previous years.
A water supply project worth P2.3 million for farmer families in the camp was also launched.
A water supply project worth P2.3 million for farmer families in the camp was also launched.“This is very symbolic. After almost 17 years, both panels came here together to show support and commitment to peace and development,” Stephens said.
The World Bank is helping push the southern peace process forward as main benefactor of the Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF), a source of grants for peace and development projects in underdeveloped conflict-affected areas.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on July 9, 2000 overran Camp Abubakar, which was also the site of a bloody three-week offensive that resulted in the deaths of over a hundred soldiers and MILF fighters.
To the MILF, Camp Abubakar is historic not only because it is their bastion with an elite training camp known as Abubakar Assidique Military Academy but it is also where the house of Udtadz Salamat Hashim, the MILF founder, can be found up to this day.
The 10,000-hectare Camp Iranun is now secured by the Philippine Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion.
The government and the MILF signed on October 15, 2013 the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and subsequently the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro on March 27, 2014.
Enforcement of the agreements is being pursued bilaterally by both panels led by Santiago and Iqbal, now named implementing panels, as agreed during a meeting by government and MILF representatives last year in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
http://www.manilatimes.net/ex-milf-rebels-get-aid-peace-panel-world-bank/307752/
From the pro-CPP/NDF online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Jan 19): GRP wants joint ceasefire; NDFP insists on compliance with past agreements first
“…if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?”
The peace panel of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) is keen on clinching a bilateral ceasefire agreement while the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) maintained that the GRP should first comply with previously signed agreements.
During the opening ceremonies of the third round of talks between the GRP and the NDFP in Rome, Italy, GRP panel chairperson Silvestre Bello III said, “…I am one with President Duterte’s optimism that in this round of talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement.”
Both parties declared separate unilateral ceasefire in August as a confidence-building measure. Bello said the indefinite ceasefires resulted in “lowering the level of violence on the ground.” He added, “…we both earned confidence that allowed us to start the discussion of a possible joint ceasefire that will hopefully lay the groundwork for ending hostilities.”
In his speech, Jose Maria Sison, NDFP chief political consultant, said a bilateral ceasefire is possible “if the GRP complies with the CARHRIHL by releasing all political prisoners listed by the NDFP who have been unjustly and wrongly imprisoned on trumped up charges of common crimes.”
The CARHRIHL or the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) was signed by the GRP and the NDFP in March 1998. It upholds, among others, the Hernandez political doctrine, which prohibits criminalization of political dissent.
NDFP peace panel chairperson Fidel Agcaoili, GRP peace panel chairperson Silvestre Bello III greet Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay during the opening ceremonies for the third round of peace talks in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Kodao Productions)
In his remarks, NDFP peace panel chairperson Fidel Agcaoili said that the release of political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence-building measure or a gift to the NDFP.
“It is an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL,” he said. “Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.”
Sison added that the most effective remedy for such release is through general amnesty as President Duterte himself told the NDFP emissary in May 2016.
Bello maintained however that the release of political prisoners should be through judicial processes, bail, recognizance and pardon. He said a withdrawal of information could also facilitate the release of political prisoners.
A day before the resumption of talks, the NDFP enumerated what it considered as GRP violations to CARHRIHL and Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (Jasig). Signed in 1995, Jasig guarantees the safety and immunity from suit, harassment, arrest, detention, or any other form of attack of all those involved in the peace talks.
Contrary to Bello’s statement that the unilateral ceasefire boosted the confidence of both parties, Agcaoili said police and military forces continued their military operations in communities perceived to be strongholds of the New People’s Army.
The NDFP said soldiers continue to occupy schools, health and day care centers, barangay halls, public plazas, and even bus stops and private residences in more than 43 provinces and 146 municipalities all over the country.
Sison said the NDFP is in a position to end its unilateral ceasefire declaration anytime. “It [NDFP] is well aware that the longer a reciprocal or joint ceasefire runs without any substantial benefit for the people, the armed revolution can lose momentum and allow the GRP to impose its campaign plan of pacification and ignore the demands of the people and the NDFP for social, economic and political reforms,” he said.
The NDFP also cited the continuing detention of Jasig-protected NDFP consultants Eduardo Sarmiento, Emeterio Antalan and Leopoldo Caloza violate Jasig. The three are serving their sentence at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. Agcaoili said they were arrested and convicted on trumped-up charges.
“…if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?” Agcaoili said.
Amid the thorny issues yet to be settled, both parties said they are prepared to exchange drafts and discuss the Comprehensive Agreement on Socioeconomic Reforms (Caser) and the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms (CAPCR).
This round of talks is expected to end Jan. 25.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2017/01/19/grp-wants-joint-ceasefire-ndfp-insists-compliance-past-agreements-first/
“…if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?”
The peace panel of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) is keen on clinching a bilateral ceasefire agreement while the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) maintained that the GRP should first comply with previously signed agreements.
During the opening ceremonies of the third round of talks between the GRP and the NDFP in Rome, Italy, GRP panel chairperson Silvestre Bello III said, “…I am one with President Duterte’s optimism that in this round of talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement.”
Both parties declared separate unilateral ceasefire in August as a confidence-building measure. Bello said the indefinite ceasefires resulted in “lowering the level of violence on the ground.” He added, “…we both earned confidence that allowed us to start the discussion of a possible joint ceasefire that will hopefully lay the groundwork for ending hostilities.”
In his speech, Jose Maria Sison, NDFP chief political consultant, said a bilateral ceasefire is possible “if the GRP complies with the CARHRIHL by releasing all political prisoners listed by the NDFP who have been unjustly and wrongly imprisoned on trumped up charges of common crimes.”
The CARHRIHL or the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) was signed by the GRP and the NDFP in March 1998. It upholds, among others, the Hernandez political doctrine, which prohibits criminalization of political dissent.
In his remarks, NDFP peace panel chairperson Fidel Agcaoili said that the release of political prisoners should not be seen as a mere confidence-building measure or a gift to the NDFP.
“It is an obligation of the GRP under CARHRIHL,” he said. “Neither should the political prisoners be treated as trump cards to extract concessions from the NDFP. Such conduct is bound to further erode mutual trust and confidence.”
Sison added that the most effective remedy for such release is through general amnesty as President Duterte himself told the NDFP emissary in May 2016.
Bello maintained however that the release of political prisoners should be through judicial processes, bail, recognizance and pardon. He said a withdrawal of information could also facilitate the release of political prisoners.
A day before the resumption of talks, the NDFP enumerated what it considered as GRP violations to CARHRIHL and Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (Jasig). Signed in 1995, Jasig guarantees the safety and immunity from suit, harassment, arrest, detention, or any other form of attack of all those involved in the peace talks.
Contrary to Bello’s statement that the unilateral ceasefire boosted the confidence of both parties, Agcaoili said police and military forces continued their military operations in communities perceived to be strongholds of the New People’s Army.
The NDFP said soldiers continue to occupy schools, health and day care centers, barangay halls, public plazas, and even bus stops and private residences in more than 43 provinces and 146 municipalities all over the country.
Sison said the NDFP is in a position to end its unilateral ceasefire declaration anytime. “It [NDFP] is well aware that the longer a reciprocal or joint ceasefire runs without any substantial benefit for the people, the armed revolution can lose momentum and allow the GRP to impose its campaign plan of pacification and ignore the demands of the people and the NDFP for social, economic and political reforms,” he said.
The NDFP also cited the continuing detention of Jasig-protected NDFP consultants Eduardo Sarmiento, Emeterio Antalan and Leopoldo Caloza violate Jasig. The three are serving their sentence at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. Agcaoili said they were arrested and convicted on trumped-up charges.
“…if previously signed agreements are not honored, what guarantees does the NDFP have that future agreements would not be similarly violated by the GRP?” Agcaoili said.
Amid the thorny issues yet to be settled, both parties said they are prepared to exchange drafts and discuss the Comprehensive Agreement on Socioeconomic Reforms (Caser) and the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms (CAPCR).
This round of talks is expected to end Jan. 25.
http://bulatlat.com/main/2017/01/19/grp-wants-joint-ceasefire-ndfp-insists-compliance-past-agreements-first/
GRP-NDF talks: looking for substance in 3rd round’s formal opening
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Jan 19): GRP-NDF talks: looking for substance in 3rd round’s formal opening
Optimistic and looking forward to a more fruitful deal, peace negotiators from both Philippine government and the communists met after more than three months during the opening of the third round of peace negotiations here on Thursday at 10:00 am.
When the 2nd round of peace talks concluded on October 9 last year, peace panels of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), approved a common framework and outline on social, economic and political reforms and a commitment to grant amnesty to more than 400 political detainees.
This time around, the NDFP wants to see more substance in the talks while the GRP aims to further prevent any resumption or escalation of armed conflict in the country.
At the opening ceremonies, CPP founder and NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison said he is optimistic that the negotiating panels “can talk in a non-adversarial way and overcome any obstacles by addressing the roots of the armed conflict.”
Sison said there is a need to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms. This, he said, will lay down the foundation for a “just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.”
For his part, GRP chief negotiator Silvestre Bello said, “I am one with President Duterte’s optimism that in this round-of-talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement.”
A joint bilateral ceasefire agreement would further extend and expand the unilateral ceasefire order for the AFP and the New People’s Army. The NDFP has maintained that the AFP continues to violate the ceasefire order with the continued operation of its troops in schools and community centers in hinterland villages.
Upbeat, cheers
More than a hundred Filipinos filled a room at the Holiday Inn Hotel here for a historic gathering. It was the third round of the peace talks between the Philippine government and the NDFP, the political wing of the CPP that has been waging Asia’s strongest and long running armed rebellion.
Like old-time friends catching up, the crowd of mostly government officials and NDFP members and resource persons mostly in their Filipiniana attire were upbeat as the opening of the third round of talks began.
Members of the overseas Filipino workers in Italy were also present along with their families.
While GRP chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III was delivering his opening speech, he introduced the 10-member delegation from the House of Representatives and the government peace consultants.
He described Bayan Muna Partylist Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate as having “identity crisis” and also quipped on the participation of National Anti-Poverty Chair Liza Maza. The two are among the government’s 77-men delegation while the NDF has 58.
Before her appointment as the NAPC Chair by President Rodrigo Duterte, Maza served as a former partylist for the militant Gabriela Women’s Party. Zarate is now a vice chairperson of the House of Congress’ Committee on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity.
Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay said he was elated to meet with Prof. Sison.
Yasay met with Italy’s Foreign Minister on Wednesday prior to attending the opening ceremonies.
“My trip has brought about the fulfillment of two of the top of my bucket list, one is to be able to meet Joma Sison. It’s more than enough for me, justifying my trip to be here,” he said.
Lasting peace not easy
At around 10:00 am (5:00 pm Philippine time), the opening ceremonies started with the opening statements of the facilitators from the Royal Norwegian Government, Ambassador Erik Førner and Special Envoy to the Peace Process Elisabeth Slattum.
“It’s truly great to see you at the negotiation table again for the third time in only a few months. To overcome differences and to make lasting peace is not easy,” Førner said.
He said both parties showed commitment to move forward with the negotiations, which formally resumed after an impasse of five years in August last year.
Førner stressed the need for a dialogue and negotiations to achieve solutions to the conflict. He said there are many differences that the parties need to overcome within the next few days.
Release political prisoners
NDF’s Sison said the government’s compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law through the release of the 392 political prisoners would help achieve a “more stable bilateral ceasefire.”
During the Presidential elections last year, Duterte offered to grant amnesty and pardon to political prisoners, a promise that is seen as one of the factors that catapulted the accelerated resumption of the peace process.
Six months later, President Duterte backtracked, saying political prisoners are his “last card.”
“They are asking for 130 detainees to be released, all NPAs (New People’s Army), sorry. I cannot do that. I cannot do it, because uubusin nila ang baraha ko,” Duterte told reporters back in December last year.
Serious issues
NDFP chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili said there is a need to prove that the negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change.
“I reiterate the determination of our panel to do everything necessary to make these negotiations a success,” he said.
The NDFP said it is “seriously concerned” with the violations of the CARHRIHL and the unilateral ceasefire arising from the government’s anti-insurgency campaign Oplan Bayanihan and the new security plan, Oplan Kapayapaan.
The killings related to the anti-drugs campaign Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel under the Duterte government were also seen by the NDFP as an issue of violating the CARHRIHL, the first substantive agenda signed between the government and the NDFP.
‘If one falls, both fall’
Elisabeth Slattum, special envoy of the Royal Norwegian Government said while unresolved issues remain for both panels to agree to, the RNG is commending the parties for working together.
“We commend the parties for doing exactly that, working together, despite disagreements, frustrations and outside pressure, showing courage, striving for progress on the substantive agenda items, with special focus on Caser this round,” she said.
Slattum described the drafts of both parties as “ambitious.”
“And both want a better future for the Philippines and for their fellow Filipinos,” she said.
“The first agreement signed between the parties, the JHD in 1992, states that the common goal of the peace negotiations shall be the attainment of a just and lasting peace. I want to stress the word common. The parties’ feet are tied – if one falls, both fall,” Slattum said.
She said the peace negotiations should be seen as a “joint problem-solving, working together toward a common goal.”
“If the peace talks fall apart, both lose, everybody loses,” she said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/grp-ndf-talks-looking-for-substance-in-3rd-rounds-formal-opening/
Optimistic and looking forward to a more fruitful deal, peace negotiators from both Philippine government and the communists met after more than three months during the opening of the third round of peace negotiations here on Thursday at 10:00 am.
When the 2nd round of peace talks concluded on October 9 last year, peace panels of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), approved a common framework and outline on social, economic and political reforms and a commitment to grant amnesty to more than 400 political detainees.
This time around, the NDFP wants to see more substance in the talks while the GRP aims to further prevent any resumption or escalation of armed conflict in the country.
At the opening ceremonies, CPP founder and NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison said he is optimistic that the negotiating panels “can talk in a non-adversarial way and overcome any obstacles by addressing the roots of the armed conflict.”
Sison said there is a need to satisfy the demands of the people for basic social, economic and political reforms. This, he said, will lay down the foundation for a “just and lasting peace and build a Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, just, prosperous and progressive.”
For his part, GRP chief negotiator Silvestre Bello said, “I am one with President Duterte’s optimism that in this round-of-talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement.”
A joint bilateral ceasefire agreement would further extend and expand the unilateral ceasefire order for the AFP and the New People’s Army. The NDFP has maintained that the AFP continues to violate the ceasefire order with the continued operation of its troops in schools and community centers in hinterland villages.
Upbeat, cheers
More than a hundred Filipinos filled a room at the Holiday Inn Hotel here for a historic gathering. It was the third round of the peace talks between the Philippine government and the NDFP, the political wing of the CPP that has been waging Asia’s strongest and long running armed rebellion.
Like old-time friends catching up, the crowd of mostly government officials and NDFP members and resource persons mostly in their Filipiniana attire were upbeat as the opening of the third round of talks began.
Members of the overseas Filipino workers in Italy were also present along with their families.
While GRP chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III was delivering his opening speech, he introduced the 10-member delegation from the House of Representatives and the government peace consultants.
He described Bayan Muna Partylist Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate as having “identity crisis” and also quipped on the participation of National Anti-Poverty Chair Liza Maza. The two are among the government’s 77-men delegation while the NDF has 58.
Before her appointment as the NAPC Chair by President Rodrigo Duterte, Maza served as a former partylist for the militant Gabriela Women’s Party. Zarate is now a vice chairperson of the House of Congress’ Committee on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity.
Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay said he was elated to meet with Prof. Sison.
Yasay met with Italy’s Foreign Minister on Wednesday prior to attending the opening ceremonies.
“My trip has brought about the fulfillment of two of the top of my bucket list, one is to be able to meet Joma Sison. It’s more than enough for me, justifying my trip to be here,” he said.
Lasting peace not easy
At around 10:00 am (5:00 pm Philippine time), the opening ceremonies started with the opening statements of the facilitators from the Royal Norwegian Government, Ambassador Erik Førner and Special Envoy to the Peace Process Elisabeth Slattum.
“It’s truly great to see you at the negotiation table again for the third time in only a few months. To overcome differences and to make lasting peace is not easy,” Førner said.
He said both parties showed commitment to move forward with the negotiations, which formally resumed after an impasse of five years in August last year.
Førner stressed the need for a dialogue and negotiations to achieve solutions to the conflict. He said there are many differences that the parties need to overcome within the next few days.
Release political prisoners
NDF’s Sison said the government’s compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law through the release of the 392 political prisoners would help achieve a “more stable bilateral ceasefire.”
During the Presidential elections last year, Duterte offered to grant amnesty and pardon to political prisoners, a promise that is seen as one of the factors that catapulted the accelerated resumption of the peace process.
Six months later, President Duterte backtracked, saying political prisoners are his “last card.”
“They are asking for 130 detainees to be released, all NPAs (New People’s Army), sorry. I cannot do that. I cannot do it, because uubusin nila ang baraha ko,” Duterte told reporters back in December last year.
Serious issues
NDFP chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili said there is a need to prove that the negotiations will indeed bring about genuine change.
“I reiterate the determination of our panel to do everything necessary to make these negotiations a success,” he said.
The NDFP said it is “seriously concerned” with the violations of the CARHRIHL and the unilateral ceasefire arising from the government’s anti-insurgency campaign Oplan Bayanihan and the new security plan, Oplan Kapayapaan.
The killings related to the anti-drugs campaign Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel under the Duterte government were also seen by the NDFP as an issue of violating the CARHRIHL, the first substantive agenda signed between the government and the NDFP.
‘If one falls, both fall’
Elisabeth Slattum, special envoy of the Royal Norwegian Government said while unresolved issues remain for both panels to agree to, the RNG is commending the parties for working together.
“We commend the parties for doing exactly that, working together, despite disagreements, frustrations and outside pressure, showing courage, striving for progress on the substantive agenda items, with special focus on Caser this round,” she said.
Slattum described the drafts of both parties as “ambitious.”
“And both want a better future for the Philippines and for their fellow Filipinos,” she said.
“The first agreement signed between the parties, the JHD in 1992, states that the common goal of the peace negotiations shall be the attainment of a just and lasting peace. I want to stress the word common. The parties’ feet are tied – if one falls, both fall,” Slattum said.
She said the peace negotiations should be seen as a “joint problem-solving, working together toward a common goal.”
“If the peace talks fall apart, both lose, everybody loses,” she said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/grp-ndf-talks-looking-for-substance-in-3rd-rounds-formal-opening/
NDF not ready to sign final peace deal before 2020
From Rappler (Jan 19): NDF not ready to sign final peace deal before 2020
The government panel is hoping to sign a bilateral ceasefire deal amid threats that the New People's Army could go back to war
But the NDF said it is maintaining its alliance with President Rodrigo Duterte.
Exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison reiterated the NDF's new demand to wait for the successful implementation of reforms that will be agreed upon in the talks before they could consent to sit down to discuss the final step in the peace process: agree on how they will end hostilities and dispose of the forces.
Based on Sison's calculation, a final peace deal can be achieved "as early as 2020-21." He serves as the NDF's chief political consultant.
Sison said they can finalize in the next two years the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-economic Reforms (CASER) and Comprehensive Agreement on Political Reforms (CAPR), and then wait for another two years to implement these agreements before they sit down again for the Comprehensive Agreement on End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces (CAEHDF) that will complete the peace deal.
Despite the issues raised, government chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III said he remained optimistic the talks in Rome will advance the talks substantially.
"There are reasons to hope we can hurdle the task we meant to accomplish in these talks. From the pre-meeting of the panels held last night to finalize our discussion agenda today, I see the same commitments of both parties that animated us during the past round of talks to remain strong," Bello said.
Ceasefire in danger
Bello is hoping they will sign in Rome a bilateral ceasefire deal amid threats that the communist combatants want to end a 5-month-old ceasefire and go back to war because of delays in the release of political prisoners and the alleged ceasefire abuses by the military. (READ: Government in backchannel talks to protect ceasefire with Reds)
A joint ceasefire deal will put in place common rules for the military and the New People's Army to follow to avoid misencounters.
"I am one with President Duterte's optimism that in this round of talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement," Bello said in his opening speech.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili enumerated in his speech alleged ceasefire abuses committed by the military, an issue that the NDF wants immediately addressed.
"It is for these reasons that the NDFP panel has requested to place compliance with CARHRIHL and JASIG as the first item on the agenda for this third round," Agcaoili said, citing previously signed agreements: 1) Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), and 2) the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
In a statement earlier this week, the NDF said its combatants want to withdraw the 5-month-old ceasefire because of delays in the release of prisoners and alleged military violations of the ceasefire. (READ: Gov't in backchannel talks to protect ceasefire with Reds)
"The strong sentiment of the NDF forces on the ground and the masses in many parts of the country is for the withdrawal of the NDFP unilateral ceasefire because of broken promises on the release of political prisoners and violations of the ceasefire by the GRP," the earlier NDF statement said.
NDF list of alleged ceasefire abuses
Here's a list of the complaints raised by the NDF in a statement released a day before the negotiators returned to the negotiating table:
http://www.rappler.com/nation/158907-rome-talks-opening-ceremony
The government panel is hoping to sign a bilateral ceasefire deal amid threats that the New People's Army could go back to war
OPTIMISTIC. Government negotiators remain optimistic in their media statements despite the challenges in the talks. Photo from OPAPP
The 3rd round of talks to end Asia's longest-running communist insurgency opened in Rome on Thursday, January 19, with the communist National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) formally announcing it is unprepared to sign a final peace deal earlier than 2020.
Exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison reiterated the NDF's new demand to wait for the successful implementation of reforms that will be agreed upon in the talks before they could consent to sit down to discuss the final step in the peace process: agree on how they will end hostilities and dispose of the forces.
Based on Sison's calculation, a final peace deal can be achieved "as early as 2020-21." He serves as the NDF's chief political consultant.
Sison said they can finalize in the next two years the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-economic Reforms (CASER) and Comprehensive Agreement on Political Reforms (CAPR), and then wait for another two years to implement these agreements before they sit down again for the Comprehensive Agreement on End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces (CAEHDF) that will complete the peace deal.
Despite the issues raised, government chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III said he remained optimistic the talks in Rome will advance the talks substantially.
"There are reasons to hope we can hurdle the task we meant to accomplish in these talks. From the pre-meeting of the panels held last night to finalize our discussion agenda today, I see the same commitments of both parties that animated us during the past round of talks to remain strong," Bello said.
Ceasefire in danger
Bello is hoping they will sign in Rome a bilateral ceasefire deal amid threats that the communist combatants want to end a 5-month-old ceasefire and go back to war because of delays in the release of political prisoners and the alleged ceasefire abuses by the military. (READ: Government in backchannel talks to protect ceasefire with Reds)
A joint ceasefire deal will put in place common rules for the military and the New People's Army to follow to avoid misencounters.
"I am one with President Duterte's optimism that in this round of talks, we are able to finalize and approve the joint ceasefire agreement," Bello said in his opening speech.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili enumerated in his speech alleged ceasefire abuses committed by the military, an issue that the NDF wants immediately addressed.
"It is for these reasons that the NDFP panel has requested to place compliance with CARHRIHL and JASIG as the first item on the agenda for this third round," Agcaoili said, citing previously signed agreements: 1) Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), and 2) the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).
In a statement earlier this week, the NDF said its combatants want to withdraw the 5-month-old ceasefire because of delays in the release of prisoners and alleged military violations of the ceasefire. (READ: Gov't in backchannel talks to protect ceasefire with Reds)
"The strong sentiment of the NDF forces on the ground and the masses in many parts of the country is for the withdrawal of the NDFP unilateral ceasefire because of broken promises on the release of political prisoners and violations of the ceasefire by the GRP," the earlier NDF statement said.
NDF list of alleged ceasefire abuses
Here's a list of the complaints raised by the NDF in a statement released a day before the negotiators returned to the negotiating table:
- The NDF complained as betrayal of trust government's advice for them to withdraw their pending appeals to allow the final conviction of 3 NDF consultants – Eduardo Sarmiento, Emeterio Antalan and Leopoldo Caloza – to fast-track their release through a presidential pardon. Their convictions are now final but they have yet to be pardoned.
- The NDF claimed that NDF consultants have been subjected to surveillance and harassment.
- The NDF raised "war crimes" committed during the administration of president Gloria Arroyo, citing the disappearances of JASIG-protected persons Leo Velasco, Prudencio Calubid and his wife and relatives, Rogelio Calubad and his son Nestor Entice, and his wife, Leopoldo Ancheta, and Philip Limjoco. They also raised the murder of Sotero Llamas.
- Military and police operations allegedly targetting communities sympathethic to, if not controlled by, the revolutionary movement. The NDF claimed that security forces are occupying schools, health and day care centers, public plazas, among others, and allegedly conduct illegal searches against suspected NPA members and their families.
- The NDF raised human rights concerns against Duterte's war on drugs because of the "killing of innocent people due to brutal, reckless and indiscriminate methods employed by the police in its anti-drug operations".
- The NDF protested the continuous detention of about 400 political detainees that are facing what the group called "trumped-up criminal cases."
- The NDF said the victims of human rights violations under Ferdinand Marcos' martial law regime are still waiting for justice and indemnification.
- The NDF protested the burial of former president Ferdinand Marcos which, it said, "completes the political rehabilitation of the Marcoses and the revision of the historical judgment against the crimes of the Marcos family."
The military earlier also raised complaints against supposed ceasefire abuses by the New People's Army. It has submitted to the government panel its inputs to the proposed joint ceasefire deal.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/158907-rome-talks-opening-ceremony
Arrest warrant issued to Davao bombing suspects
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jan 18): Arrest warrant issued to Davao bombing suspects
MANILA. Three suspected terrorists allegedly responsible for the Davao City night market bombing last September 2 were presented to the media on Friday, October 7, in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. (Al Padilla)
THE Davao Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 54 Judge Melinda Alconcel-Dayanghirang issued a warrant of arrest against the accused of the Roxas Night Market bombing for their terrorism case last January 9.
THE Davao Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 54 Judge Melinda Alconcel-Dayanghirang issued a warrant of arrest against the accused of the Roxas Night Market bombing for their terrorism case last January 9.
Included in the arrest warrant were the 14 indicted persons namely Abubakar Zulkifli, TJ Tagadaya Macabalang, Wendel Facturan, Musali Mustapha, Datu Masla Sema, Abu Hadid Dilangalen, Jessy Vincent Original, Zack Haron Lopez, Pendatum Coy Mahurom, one alias Cocoy, Abu Calid, Abu Solaiman, Jackson Usi and Ausa Mamasapano.
Three of the arrested are detained in Manila while the other three are detained in Davao City.
Macabalang, the alleged triggerman who made a phone call that detonated the improvised explosive device; Facturan, the alleged bomb courier who sat on the chair and the one who placed the backpack containing the IED in the market; and Mustapha, who took the video of the incident, were presented by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana last October 8, 2016.
Meanwhile, Zach Haron Villanueva Lopez, Jackson Mangulamas Usi, and Ausan Abdullah Mamasapano were recently transferred to the Maa City Jail.
The staff of the RTC 54, in an interview with SunStar Davao Wednesday, January 18, said that Judge Dayanghirang will only set an arraignment to hear the terrorism case filed against the respondents once all the accused are arrested.
Zulkifli, Sema, Dilangalen, Original, Mahurom, alias Cocoy, Calid, Solaiman are still at large.
Based on reports, President Rodrigo Duterte last Saturday confirmed that Sema or Datu Mohammad Abduljabbar Sema, 26, was arrested on November 24, 2016 at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport upon his arrival from Bangkok aboard Air Asia flight AK 891.
Sema, a village chief of Barangay Rosary Heights 7 in Cotabato City, is the son of Muslimin Sema, chairman of the largest faction of the MNLF and Maguindanao Representative Bai Sandra Sema. Muslimin Sema is a former Cotabato mayor and is being considered for membership in the Bangsamoro Transition Council (BTC).
The legal counsel of Sema, Jose Aguila Grapilon, recently filed a motion for determination of probable cause on the indictment of his client for murder and frustrated murder charges filed against Sema before presiding Judge Lope Callo of RTC Branch 33 in connection of the Roxas night market bombing.
Judge Callo ordered the issuance of subpoena for the two accused, Jackson Usi, and Ausa Mamasapano who issued an extrajudicial confession tagging Sema in the case.
Based on the extrajudicial confession of both, Sema allegedly suggested that the bomb will be used in Davao City. Callo ordered that the subpoena be issued to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for the appearance of Usi and Mamasapano in the next hearing set on February 3, 2017.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/01/18/arrest-warrant-issued-davao-bombing-suspects-520893
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/01/18/arrest-warrant-issued-davao-bombing-suspects-520893
Another abduction? Malaysian-registered vessel found abandoned in Philippine waters
From the New Straits Times (Jan 19): Another abduction? Malaysian-registered vessel found abandoned in Philippine waters
SANDAKAN: A Malaysian-registered fishing boat was found abandoned in waters off Langawan island in the southern Philippines this morning, sparking fears of yet another abduction case.
Philippine security forces discovered the boat with its engine still running. No one was onboard the fishing vessel, which bore the registration number BN 838/4F.
It was learnt that three people were supposed to be on the boat, which is registered in Sandakan.
The missing trio are said to be Indonesians aged between 26 and 47.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid, when contacted, confirmed that the authorities have received a report at 6pm with regards to the discovery of the vessel.
“As of now, I can confirm that we have received the report and it happened in Philippine waters.
“They (the missing fishermen) could have been fishing outside Malaysian waters but we are waiting for full details from our counterparts.”
http://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/01/205619/another-abduction-malaysian-registered-vessel-found-abandoned-philippine-waters
SANDAKAN: A Malaysian-registered fishing boat was found abandoned in waters off Langawan island in the southern Philippines this morning, sparking fears of yet another abduction case.
Philippine security forces discovered the boat with its engine still running. No one was onboard the fishing vessel, which bore the registration number BN 838/4F.
It was learnt that three people were supposed to be on the boat, which is registered in Sandakan.
The missing trio are said to be Indonesians aged between 26 and 47.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid, when contacted, confirmed that the authorities have received a report at 6pm with regards to the discovery of the vessel.
“As of now, I can confirm that we have received the report and it happened in Philippine waters.
“They (the missing fishermen) could have been fishing outside Malaysian waters but we are waiting for full details from our counterparts.”
http://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/01/205619/another-abduction-malaysian-registered-vessel-found-abandoned-philippine-waters
Sabah fishing boat found in Sulu sea, six missing
From The Stat Online (Jan 19): Sabah fishing boat found in Sulu sea, six missing
Philippines authorities found a Sabah-registered fishing vessel listing in Sulu waters close to the Sabah border early Thursday.
It is learnt that the vessel's six crew members were missing and its engine was still running when it was found near Langawan Island.
According to sources, Philippine security forces found the fishing boat, believed to be Sandakan-registered, around predawn.
The fate of the crew, three Indonesians aged between 26 and 47 while the other three yet to be identified, are still unknown.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid could not be reached for comments.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/01/19/three-crew-missing-from-sabah-fishing-boat-in-sulu-sea/
Philippines authorities found a Sabah-registered fishing vessel listing in Sulu waters close to the Sabah border early Thursday.
It is learnt that the vessel's six crew members were missing and its engine was still running when it was found near Langawan Island.
According to sources, Philippine security forces found the fishing boat, believed to be Sandakan-registered, around predawn.
The fate of the crew, three Indonesians aged between 26 and 47 while the other three yet to be identified, are still unknown.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid could not be reached for comments.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/01/19/three-crew-missing-from-sabah-fishing-boat-in-sulu-sea/
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