From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): 7 more NPA rebels surrender in Maguindanao
Tired of hiding from pursuing government troops and empty promises of their supposed leaders, seven communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) guerillas surrendered Tuesday to the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB) based here.
Lt. Col. Lauro Oliveros, 1st MIB commanding officer, said the surrenderees belonged to Platoon My Phone of the NPA Guerilla Front 73 Far South Mindanao Regional Committee, operating in the hinterlands of Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.
The rebels turned over firearms and explosives composed of two M-14 rifle, M-16 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, one homemade M-16 sniper rifle, one Springfield rifle, a .38-caliber revolver, a hand grenade, and one improvised explosive device with wire and triggering device.
Oliveros said the surrenderees decided to return to the folds of the law due to hardship they experienced in hiding in the mountainous area of Sultan Kudarat while evading government troops.
They also realized promises of their communist leaders were all false.
“The surrenderees were also convinced by their relatives and other former rebels who benefited from the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program or CLIP and live a peaceful and secured life,” he added.
The former rebels will be turned over to proper authorities after they will be formally presented to Esperanza Mayor Helen Latog, and Sultan Kudarat Governor Sultan Pax Mangudadatu.
From there, they will undergo the reintegration process including livelihood seminars that will prepare them to start new life as law-abiding citizens.
Maj. General Arnel B. Dela Vega, 6th Infantry Division commander, appealed to remaining NPA rebels in the mountains to surrender, as this will bring progress in their communities. Dela Vega lauded the rebel returnees for realizing the benefits of returning to the mainstream society and live peacefully in their community.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025157
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Abu Sayyaf men seize government engineer
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): Abu Sayyaf men seize government engineer
A government engineer was abducted by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members in the province of Sulu, the military reported Wednesday.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, identified the victim as Enrico Nee of the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DPWH-ARMM).
Sobejana said Nee, who belonged to the first engineering district, was seized at around 7:45 a.m. Wednesday in Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu.
Sobejana said the victim was waiting for a tricycle approximately 20 meters away from his residence when a lone gunman approached and at gunpoint forced him to board on a waiting Tamaraw-type jeep.
He said the jeep sped off towards Barangay Anuling, Patikul municipality.
“The incident may be part of the express kidnapping of the ASG to get ransom payment and sustain their terror activities,” he added.
He said rescue operation was immediately launched by the Joint Task Force Sulu and the police forces in the province.
“We already recovered the get away vehicle and closely tracking the escape route (of the ASG),” Sobejana said.
“We are appealing to the public to immediately inform us on any monitored hostile plans of the ASG so that we can take immediate appropriate action,” he added citing the public should be aware that security is everybody's responsibility.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025212
A government engineer was abducted by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members in the province of Sulu, the military reported Wednesday.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, identified the victim as Enrico Nee of the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DPWH-ARMM).
Sobejana said Nee, who belonged to the first engineering district, was seized at around 7:45 a.m. Wednesday in Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu.
Sobejana said the victim was waiting for a tricycle approximately 20 meters away from his residence when a lone gunman approached and at gunpoint forced him to board on a waiting Tamaraw-type jeep.
He said the jeep sped off towards Barangay Anuling, Patikul municipality.
“The incident may be part of the express kidnapping of the ASG to get ransom payment and sustain their terror activities,” he added.
He said rescue operation was immediately launched by the Joint Task Force Sulu and the police forces in the province.
“We already recovered the get away vehicle and closely tracking the escape route (of the ASG),” Sobejana said.
“We are appealing to the public to immediately inform us on any monitored hostile plans of the ASG so that we can take immediate appropriate action,” he added citing the public should be aware that security is everybody's responsibility.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025212
Zamboanga police arrests Abu Sayyaf bandit
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): Zamboanga police arrests Abu Sayyaf bandit
In photo is suspected Abu Sayyaf member Rocco Haman, 38, who was involved in the kidnapping of plantation workers in 2001 in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan. (Photo courtesy of PRO-9 PIO)
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Police authorities arrested an alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) involved in the kidnapping and killing of plantation workers 16 years ago in Basilan province, an official announced Wednesday.
The suspect is the 10th ASG member involved in the plantation workers’ kidnapping that was arrested since January 1 this year.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, identified the arrested suspect as Rocco Haman, 38, who carries the aliases Ruco Haman Isdad, and Hamador Hadjula.
Beltran said the suspect was arrested at around 4:20 p.m. Tuesday near a restaurant on La Purisima Street, Barangay Zone III, this city.
Beltran said Haman has standing warrant of arrest for eight counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by a court in Isabela City, Basilan province.
He said Haman was allegedly involved in the kidnapping of workers from the Golden Harvest Plantation on June 11, 2001 in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan.
He lauded the Police Station 4 personnel under the leadership of Chief Insp. Hazel Fernandez for a job well-done.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025217
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Police authorities arrested an alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) involved in the kidnapping and killing of plantation workers 16 years ago in Basilan province, an official announced Wednesday.
The suspect is the 10th ASG member involved in the plantation workers’ kidnapping that was arrested since January 1 this year.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, identified the arrested suspect as Rocco Haman, 38, who carries the aliases Ruco Haman Isdad, and Hamador Hadjula.
Beltran said the suspect was arrested at around 4:20 p.m. Tuesday near a restaurant on La Purisima Street, Barangay Zone III, this city.
Beltran said Haman has standing warrant of arrest for eight counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by a court in Isabela City, Basilan province.
He said Haman was allegedly involved in the kidnapping of workers from the Golden Harvest Plantation on June 11, 2001 in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan.
He lauded the Police Station 4 personnel under the leadership of Chief Insp. Hazel Fernandez for a job well-done.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025217
Top NPA leader in Quezon meted life term
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): Top NPA leader in Quezon meted life term
A high-ranking female leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist group operating in Quezon was sentenced to reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment after the court found her guilty for violation of illegal possession of explosives and illegal firearms.
Captain Patrick Jay M. Retumban, public affairs chief of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID), Philippine Army in this camp here told Philippine News Agency on Wednesday that Miguela Ocampo Piñero, alias “Ka Migs,” was sentenced to jail by virtue of the order signed by Judge Mariam G. Biem of the Quezon Regional Trial Court Branch l53.
Piñero was found guilty for violation of Republic Act 9516 or Illegal Possession of Explosives and sentenced for reclusion perpetua or 20 years and one day to 30 years imprisonment.
Further, she was also found guilty for violation of Republic Act 8294 or Illegal Possession of Firearms and meted the imprisonment for six years and one day to 12 years prison mayor.
Meanwhile, Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, 2ID Commander said the decision of the court gave justice to the victims of CPP-NPA-terrorist atrocities, particularly the indigenous people who were brutally killed, the common people who have been victimized by their continuous extortion and terroristic activities and those who have lost their livelihood brought about by their atrocious underground activities.
“It also proves that the terrorists cannot run away from the long arm of the law,” he added.
Piñero is the top leader of the NPA terrorist group operating in Southern Quezon and in Bondoc Peninsula who were responsible for the extortions, ambuscades of government troops and disrupting the government implemented projects in the area.
According to Lt. Col. Ely Tono, Commanding Officer of the 85th IB, “Ka Migs” was arrested by the joint elements of the 85th Infantry Battalion, 2ID and the Quezon Provincial Police on Feb. 5, 2012 in Barangay Calantipayan, Lopez, Quezon by virtue of the Warrant of Arrest.
The arrest order was served to Piñero for two counts of murder, rebellion, multiple frustrated murder and robbery in band.
The arresting authorities also recovered from her possession one calibre .45 pistol, one hand grenade and assorted explosive materials as components for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Piñero is now detained at the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025303
A high-ranking female leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist group operating in Quezon was sentenced to reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment after the court found her guilty for violation of illegal possession of explosives and illegal firearms.
Captain Patrick Jay M. Retumban, public affairs chief of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID), Philippine Army in this camp here told Philippine News Agency on Wednesday that Miguela Ocampo Piñero, alias “Ka Migs,” was sentenced to jail by virtue of the order signed by Judge Mariam G. Biem of the Quezon Regional Trial Court Branch l53.
Piñero was found guilty for violation of Republic Act 9516 or Illegal Possession of Explosives and sentenced for reclusion perpetua or 20 years and one day to 30 years imprisonment.
Further, she was also found guilty for violation of Republic Act 8294 or Illegal Possession of Firearms and meted the imprisonment for six years and one day to 12 years prison mayor.
Meanwhile, Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, 2ID Commander said the decision of the court gave justice to the victims of CPP-NPA-terrorist atrocities, particularly the indigenous people who were brutally killed, the common people who have been victimized by their continuous extortion and terroristic activities and those who have lost their livelihood brought about by their atrocious underground activities.
“It also proves that the terrorists cannot run away from the long arm of the law,” he added.
Piñero is the top leader of the NPA terrorist group operating in Southern Quezon and in Bondoc Peninsula who were responsible for the extortions, ambuscades of government troops and disrupting the government implemented projects in the area.
According to Lt. Col. Ely Tono, Commanding Officer of the 85th IB, “Ka Migs” was arrested by the joint elements of the 85th Infantry Battalion, 2ID and the Quezon Provincial Police on Feb. 5, 2012 in Barangay Calantipayan, Lopez, Quezon by virtue of the Warrant of Arrest.
The arrest order was served to Piñero for two counts of murder, rebellion, multiple frustrated murder and robbery in band.
The arresting authorities also recovered from her possession one calibre .45 pistol, one hand grenade and assorted explosive materials as components for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Piñero is now detained at the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025303
NPA supplies discovered in Bukidnon
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): NPA supplies discovered in Bukidnon
Government troops discovered some 40 sacks of rice, assorted food items and medical supplies in the hinterland village of Valencia City in Bukidnon province Wednesday (February 14), the military said.
Troops of the Army’s 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB), who discovered the supplies, believe that these belong to the New People’s Army (NPA)—the armed wing of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
2Lt. Sancho Tomaquin, 88IB civil military operations officer, said their field unit discovered the supplies at sitio Bulacao, Brgy. Concepcion, Valencia City at around 8 a.m. Wednesday while conducting combat operations.
“Concerned citizens have informed our troops about the presence of the NPA conducting extortion activities in their community. They also informed us about the existence of the hidden supplies and guided them in the area,” Tomaquin told the Philippine News Agency in a phone interview.
The military official said the recovered items may have been “extorted” from civilians, including local businessmen and government officials.
He said the items were discovered buried in plastic water containers in a forested area, with a total of 67 water containers filled with rice and two drums filled with medical supplies and assorted food items.
The CMO chief said residents in the area complained of being forced to provide the NPA food, money, logistics materials and are even coerced to transport these supplies to the designated rebel “drop-off points.”
In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Randy Remonte, 88IB commanding officer, thanked the concerned citizens of Brgy. Concepcion for their cooperation that led to the discovery of the NPA supplies.
Remonte said the discovery of the hidden supplies appears to show that “there are still those who continue to aid the CPP-NPA, especially the local businessmen and even the local officials.”
He reminded everyone that “aiding terrorists is against the law and they will be liable under Section 4 of Republic Act 10168.”
R.A. 10168 is an act defining the crime of financing of terrorism, providing penalties therefor and for other purposes.
On February 11, villagers from Barangay Cagawasan, Kibawe, Bukidnon composed of 26 families fled their homes due to NPA’s threats.
The military quoted Cagawasan Barangay chairman Roland Perequitte claiming that the NPA started threatening him and his fellow barangay folks to be killed when they decided to withdraw their support to the rebel group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025407
Government troops discovered some 40 sacks of rice, assorted food items and medical supplies in the hinterland village of Valencia City in Bukidnon province Wednesday (February 14), the military said.
Troops of the Army’s 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB), who discovered the supplies, believe that these belong to the New People’s Army (NPA)—the armed wing of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
2Lt. Sancho Tomaquin, 88IB civil military operations officer, said their field unit discovered the supplies at sitio Bulacao, Brgy. Concepcion, Valencia City at around 8 a.m. Wednesday while conducting combat operations.
“Concerned citizens have informed our troops about the presence of the NPA conducting extortion activities in their community. They also informed us about the existence of the hidden supplies and guided them in the area,” Tomaquin told the Philippine News Agency in a phone interview.
The military official said the recovered items may have been “extorted” from civilians, including local businessmen and government officials.
He said the items were discovered buried in plastic water containers in a forested area, with a total of 67 water containers filled with rice and two drums filled with medical supplies and assorted food items.
The CMO chief said residents in the area complained of being forced to provide the NPA food, money, logistics materials and are even coerced to transport these supplies to the designated rebel “drop-off points.”
In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Randy Remonte, 88IB commanding officer, thanked the concerned citizens of Brgy. Concepcion for their cooperation that led to the discovery of the NPA supplies.
Remonte said the discovery of the hidden supplies appears to show that “there are still those who continue to aid the CPP-NPA, especially the local businessmen and even the local officials.”
He reminded everyone that “aiding terrorists is against the law and they will be liable under Section 4 of Republic Act 10168.”
R.A. 10168 is an act defining the crime of financing of terrorism, providing penalties therefor and for other purposes.
On February 11, villagers from Barangay Cagawasan, Kibawe, Bukidnon composed of 26 families fled their homes due to NPA’s threats.
The military quoted Cagawasan Barangay chairman Roland Perequitte claiming that the NPA started threatening him and his fellow barangay folks to be killed when they decided to withdraw their support to the rebel group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025407
ARMM guv condemns kidnapping of engineer in Sulu
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): ARMM guv condemns kidnapping of engineer in Sulu
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman views a picture shown to him by a resident during an outreach program in Barangay Macalang, Al-Barka, Basilan. Macalang was then known as haven of the Abu Sayyaf bandits in the province and was cleared by continuous military offensive. (PNA file photo by: Teofilo P. Garcia,
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Thursday strongly condemned the kidnapping of an engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways in ARMM (DPWH-ARMM).
Enrico Nee of Sulu’s first engineering district was seized at around 7:45 a.m. Wednesday in Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu.
Nee was waiting for a tricycle about 20 meters away from his residence when a lone gunman approached and forced him to board on a waiting Tamaraw-type jeep that sped towards Barangay Anuling, Patikul municipality.
“The regional government of ARMM condemns in the strongest possible term the kidnapping of an engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Sulu,” Hataman said in a statement through the region’s Bureau of Public Information (BPI-ARMM).
“Should this be the case, the local terror group now holds 10 hostages captive,” Hataman noted as the military reported that members Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are behind the incident.
The other hostages included five foreigners--three Indonesians, one Vietnamese and one Dutch--and four Filipinos, the ASG members have seized in separate occasions.
Hataman called on the security sector to intensify the ongoing anti-terror campaign in the country, and “to heighten efforts in protecting employees who dedicate their life in serving the people of Sulu by implementing infrastructure and public works related projects in the region.”
Last January 31, two DPWH-ARMM employees were killed while two others were wounded when members of the ASG ambushed them in Barangay Baas, Lamitan City, Basilan province.
An improvised bomb exploded and damaged the perimeter fence of Eng’r Soler Undug’s residence on February 1 in Purok Yakal, Barangay San Rafael, Isabela City, Basilan.
Another improvised bomb was recovered on the same day at the residence of Eng’r. Bong Lasatan in Catleya Drive, Barangay Aguada, Isabela City.
Undug is the district engineer of DPWH-ARMM in Basilan while Lasatan is the assistant provincial engineer of the same province.
Military and police authorities tagged the Abu Sayyaf bandits as the ones behind the two incidents.
“Local terror groups have been known to specifically target government employees, especially those involved in implementing infrastructure projects, because their good work enables better law enforcement as easier access to terrorist lairs are paved across the islands, making it difficult for terrorists to move around undetected,” Hataman said.
“We also ask our ARMM residents to stay vigilant, and to help our security forces by immediately reporting any suspicious persons or activities in their area,” he added.
Despite the incidents, the ARMM governor said they remain steadfast in its commitment to building a better Bangsamoro for the people, “as we continue to work towards providing the needed infrastructure and services needed in areas that need it the most.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025390
Enrico Nee of Sulu’s first engineering district was seized at around 7:45 a.m. Wednesday in Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu.
Nee was waiting for a tricycle about 20 meters away from his residence when a lone gunman approached and forced him to board on a waiting Tamaraw-type jeep that sped towards Barangay Anuling, Patikul municipality.
“The regional government of ARMM condemns in the strongest possible term the kidnapping of an engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Sulu,” Hataman said in a statement through the region’s Bureau of Public Information (BPI-ARMM).
“Should this be the case, the local terror group now holds 10 hostages captive,” Hataman noted as the military reported that members Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are behind the incident.
The other hostages included five foreigners--three Indonesians, one Vietnamese and one Dutch--and four Filipinos, the ASG members have seized in separate occasions.
Hataman called on the security sector to intensify the ongoing anti-terror campaign in the country, and “to heighten efforts in protecting employees who dedicate their life in serving the people of Sulu by implementing infrastructure and public works related projects in the region.”
Last January 31, two DPWH-ARMM employees were killed while two others were wounded when members of the ASG ambushed them in Barangay Baas, Lamitan City, Basilan province.
An improvised bomb exploded and damaged the perimeter fence of Eng’r Soler Undug’s residence on February 1 in Purok Yakal, Barangay San Rafael, Isabela City, Basilan.
Another improvised bomb was recovered on the same day at the residence of Eng’r. Bong Lasatan in Catleya Drive, Barangay Aguada, Isabela City.
Undug is the district engineer of DPWH-ARMM in Basilan while Lasatan is the assistant provincial engineer of the same province.
Military and police authorities tagged the Abu Sayyaf bandits as the ones behind the two incidents.
“Local terror groups have been known to specifically target government employees, especially those involved in implementing infrastructure projects, because their good work enables better law enforcement as easier access to terrorist lairs are paved across the islands, making it difficult for terrorists to move around undetected,” Hataman said.
“We also ask our ARMM residents to stay vigilant, and to help our security forces by immediately reporting any suspicious persons or activities in their area,” he added.
Despite the incidents, the ARMM governor said they remain steadfast in its commitment to building a better Bangsamoro for the people, “as we continue to work towards providing the needed infrastructure and services needed in areas that need it the most.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025390
DILG probes village officials supporting NPA
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): DILG probes village officials supporting NPA
Some 10 to 15 village leaders in Compostela Valley Province suspected to be members or supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) are under investigation by the Department of Interior and Local Government1 (DILG).
Those on the list are also being verified by Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy and if proven true, they can be expelled office.
Uy confirmed there are some barangay officials in province engaged or included in the underground organization.
The governor, however, was not at liberty to disclose the names of the officials on the list submitted to the DILG.
He learned this in a meeting with Local Government’s Secretary Eduardo Año three weeks ago.
This was also taken during an executive meeting of the provincial peace and oprder council recently. The information was also based on the report of the military brigades operating in Davao area.
According to Uy, the names of the officials are on the list of only one brigade. He said there are others on the list of other Army units operating in the area of Compostela Valley.
Uy said his government is also verifying the information. The governor was concerned about the repercussions if officials are supporting the other side.
He said there may be some officials who are in the know of the NPA activities but remained deaf and blind.
“Ang DILG dili gusto niana no. So the investigation is going on (DILG does not like that. So the investigation is going on),” he confirmed during the Hermes Club at Waterfront Insular Hotel.
Meanwhile, Uy said the provincial government continues to engage stakeholders to keep the province safe.
All efforts, Uy said resulted in the surrender of NPA rebels operating in Comval.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025412
Some 10 to 15 village leaders in Compostela Valley Province suspected to be members or supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) are under investigation by the Department of Interior and Local Government1 (DILG).
Those on the list are also being verified by Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy and if proven true, they can be expelled office.
Uy confirmed there are some barangay officials in province engaged or included in the underground organization.
The governor, however, was not at liberty to disclose the names of the officials on the list submitted to the DILG.
He learned this in a meeting with Local Government’s Secretary Eduardo Año three weeks ago.
This was also taken during an executive meeting of the provincial peace and oprder council recently. The information was also based on the report of the military brigades operating in Davao area.
According to Uy, the names of the officials are on the list of only one brigade. He said there are others on the list of other Army units operating in the area of Compostela Valley.
Uy said his government is also verifying the information. The governor was concerned about the repercussions if officials are supporting the other side.
He said there may be some officials who are in the know of the NPA activities but remained deaf and blind.
“Ang DILG dili gusto niana no. So the investigation is going on (DILG does not like that. So the investigation is going on),” he confirmed during the Hermes Club at Waterfront Insular Hotel.
Meanwhile, Uy said the provincial government continues to engage stakeholders to keep the province safe.
All efforts, Uy said resulted in the surrender of NPA rebels operating in Comval.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025412
Talks of cooperation on SCS marine protection, oil, 'productive'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): Talks of cooperation on SCS marine protection, oil, 'productive'
The governments of the Philippines and China on Tuesday had a "productive" discussion on strengthening cooperation in areas of marine environmental protection, fisheries, marine scientific research (MSR), and on oil and gas.
This, "without prejudice to their respective positions on sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction," said a joint statement issued after the second meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM).
The Department of Foreign Affairs said aside from "intensive discussions" on mutually beneficial joint initiatives, there had been a consensus to form technical working groups on the said areas, including political security in the framework of the BCM.
"The technical working groups identified a number of possible cooperative initiatives," it said.
Under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' (ASEAN) 2002 Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, claimants may undertake MSR and activities on marine environmental protection pending a comprehensive and durable settlement of the disputes.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025148
The governments of the Philippines and China on Tuesday had a "productive" discussion on strengthening cooperation in areas of marine environmental protection, fisheries, marine scientific research (MSR), and on oil and gas.
This, "without prejudice to their respective positions on sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction," said a joint statement issued after the second meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM).
The Department of Foreign Affairs said aside from "intensive discussions" on mutually beneficial joint initiatives, there had been a consensus to form technical working groups on the said areas, including political security in the framework of the BCM.
"The technical working groups identified a number of possible cooperative initiatives," it said.
Under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' (ASEAN) 2002 Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, claimants may undertake MSR and activities on marine environmental protection pending a comprehensive and durable settlement of the disputes.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025148
Lorenzana to tell all frigate project updates in Senate hearing
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): Lorenzana to tell all frigate project updates in Senate hearing
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will tell all about the PHP18 billion Frigate Acquisition Program (FAP) during next week's hearing at the Senate.
"Wait for the hearing na lang. (Just wait for the hearing.) It will be (answered all in the) public hearing," he said in a message to the PNA Tuesday afternoon.
Lorenzana made the statement in response to questions on updates on the FAP program and calls from some sectors to cancel or rebid the project following reports of alleged anomalies.
Earlier, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said they strongly welcome any investigation on the FAP as it is hiding nothing.
"The DND welcomes the plan of the Senate to conduct an investigation on the Frigate Acquisition Project. In fact, we have long been waiting for the opportunity to shed light on this issue so that the truth will finally be known," he added.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program as it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
Earlier, Magdalo partylist Rep. Gary Alejano claimed that FAP project is riddled with anomalies and that its design was altered from the original.
This includes the alleged preference for the Hanwha CMS, the lawmaker said.
Earlier, the DND cleared Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go of any interference in the FAP following reports claiming that the latter interfered with the project.
"The President has already addressed the issue of the alleged 'intervention' of the SAP Christopher “Bong” Go in the PN Frigate Acquisition Project," Andolong said.
"The Secretary of National Defense (Delfin Lorenzana) is confirming that no intervention or interference by Secretary Bong Go happened. The document that the SND alluded to have been given to him by Secretary Bong Go was handed to him at the Palace, so he assumed that it came from Secretary Go, the Special Assistant to the President and Chief of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS). It should be noted that the one of the tasks of the PMS includes the official routing and endorsement of documents to government agencies concerned, for appropriate action," he added.
Andolong said the subject document originated from Hanwha, one of the proponents for the CMS who was post-qualified by the Philippine Navy for the FAP.
The DND spokesperson said there was neither hint nor guidance from the Palace or from Go to influence the implementation of the project.
"There is a contract for the FAP which was crafted mainly by the Philippine Navy and it will be implemented strictly to the letter," Andolong pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025162
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will tell all about the PHP18 billion Frigate Acquisition Program (FAP) during next week's hearing at the Senate.
"Wait for the hearing na lang. (Just wait for the hearing.) It will be (answered all in the) public hearing," he said in a message to the PNA Tuesday afternoon.
Lorenzana made the statement in response to questions on updates on the FAP program and calls from some sectors to cancel or rebid the project following reports of alleged anomalies.
Earlier, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said they strongly welcome any investigation on the FAP as it is hiding nothing.
"The DND welcomes the plan of the Senate to conduct an investigation on the Frigate Acquisition Project. In fact, we have long been waiting for the opportunity to shed light on this issue so that the truth will finally be known," he added.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program as it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
Earlier, Magdalo partylist Rep. Gary Alejano claimed that FAP project is riddled with anomalies and that its design was altered from the original.
This includes the alleged preference for the Hanwha CMS, the lawmaker said.
Earlier, the DND cleared Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go of any interference in the FAP following reports claiming that the latter interfered with the project.
"The President has already addressed the issue of the alleged 'intervention' of the SAP Christopher “Bong” Go in the PN Frigate Acquisition Project," Andolong said.
"The Secretary of National Defense (Delfin Lorenzana) is confirming that no intervention or interference by Secretary Bong Go happened. The document that the SND alluded to have been given to him by Secretary Bong Go was handed to him at the Palace, so he assumed that it came from Secretary Go, the Special Assistant to the President and Chief of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS). It should be noted that the one of the tasks of the PMS includes the official routing and endorsement of documents to government agencies concerned, for appropriate action," he added.
Andolong said the subject document originated from Hanwha, one of the proponents for the CMS who was post-qualified by the Philippine Navy for the FAP.
The DND spokesperson said there was neither hint nor guidance from the Palace or from Go to influence the implementation of the project.
"There is a contract for the FAP which was crafted mainly by the Philippine Navy and it will be implemented strictly to the letter," Andolong pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025162
3 PAF attack helicopters up for repairs
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): 3 PAF attack helicopters up for repairs
Three of the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s McDonnell Douglas MG-520 "Defender" attack helicopters will be having their engine systems overhauled and repaired for the sum of PHP8 million.
The sum is intended for the acquisition of parts and services needed for the maintenance of MG-520 helicopters with tail numbers 505, 506, and 507.
The PAF is known to operate around 12 to 16 models of the MG-520.
The Air Force acquired 25 units of these helicopters in the early 1990s and it was used to support troops during encounters with the New People's Army and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.
The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter.
It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machine gun and air-to-ground rockets.
Pre-bid conference is scheduled on Thursday, 3 p.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City. While submission and opening of bids is on Feb. 27, 9 a.m. at the same venue, PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Erickson Gloria said in the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025192
Three of the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s McDonnell Douglas MG-520 "Defender" attack helicopters will be having their engine systems overhauled and repaired for the sum of PHP8 million.
The sum is intended for the acquisition of parts and services needed for the maintenance of MG-520 helicopters with tail numbers 505, 506, and 507.
The PAF is known to operate around 12 to 16 models of the MG-520.
The Air Force acquired 25 units of these helicopters in the early 1990s and it was used to support troops during encounters with the New People's Army and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.
The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter.
It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machine gun and air-to-ground rockets.
Pre-bid conference is scheduled on Thursday, 3 p.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City. While submission and opening of bids is on Feb. 27, 9 a.m. at the same venue, PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Erickson Gloria said in the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025192
DOJ submits for resolution rebellion raps vs. Maute leader's wife
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14): DOJ submits for resolution rebellion raps vs. Maute leader's wife
The Department of Justice is set to submit for resolution the criminal complaint filed by Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the wife of one of the slain leaders of the Maute terror group.
Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Peter Ong, who chairs the DOJ Task Force Marawi, ended the preliminary investigation on Wednesday the rebellion complaint filed by Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines-The Judge Advocate General (AFP-TJAG) against Najiya Dilangalen Karon-Maute.
Najiya is the wife of Mohammad ‘Otto’ Maute, who was killed in a battle with government forces in Marawi City.
During the preliminary investigation, Ong said that Najiya did not file a counter-affidavit against the rebellion complaint after the complainants failed to submit additional evidence which could back their complaint.
“So it’s their turn now to submit a counter affidavit. They decided not to file. Kasi nga (It's because), may initial finding kami on the inquest level na insufficient ang evidence. So ngayon (Now), submitted for decision. At saka ni-rule talaga namin na hindi inquestable ang case. (We ruled that the case is not inquestable.) The offense was committed several months before the arrest of the lady. At the time the lady was arrested, she was not committing any offense, she was not about to commit any offense, she has not just committed an offense. So it is not inquestable,” Ong explained.
“They were given a chance to submit additional evidence, they failed. Notified sila ngayon, hindi sila pumunta (They were notified but they did not show up) and we will rule,” he added.
Najiya was arrested on Jan. 23, 2018 in Cotabato City.
The complaint against Najiya was based on the testimony of a certain Martino Elyana who was abducted in Padian, Marawi City.
Elyana said he saw Najiya and her husband Mohammadhayan "Otto" Maute bringing food to members of the group at the Bato Mosque in June 2017.
Elyana said he managed to escaped the Maute lair in July 2017.
Najiya was subject of an arrest order issued by the Department of National Defense, the agency in charge of implementing martial law in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025204
The Department of Justice is set to submit for resolution the criminal complaint filed by Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the wife of one of the slain leaders of the Maute terror group.
Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Peter Ong, who chairs the DOJ Task Force Marawi, ended the preliminary investigation on Wednesday the rebellion complaint filed by Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines-The Judge Advocate General (AFP-TJAG) against Najiya Dilangalen Karon-Maute.
Najiya is the wife of Mohammad ‘Otto’ Maute, who was killed in a battle with government forces in Marawi City.
During the preliminary investigation, Ong said that Najiya did not file a counter-affidavit against the rebellion complaint after the complainants failed to submit additional evidence which could back their complaint.
“So it’s their turn now to submit a counter affidavit. They decided not to file. Kasi nga (It's because), may initial finding kami on the inquest level na insufficient ang evidence. So ngayon (Now), submitted for decision. At saka ni-rule talaga namin na hindi inquestable ang case. (We ruled that the case is not inquestable.) The offense was committed several months before the arrest of the lady. At the time the lady was arrested, she was not committing any offense, she was not about to commit any offense, she has not just committed an offense. So it is not inquestable,” Ong explained.
“They were given a chance to submit additional evidence, they failed. Notified sila ngayon, hindi sila pumunta (They were notified but they did not show up) and we will rule,” he added.
Najiya was arrested on Jan. 23, 2018 in Cotabato City.
The complaint against Najiya was based on the testimony of a certain Martino Elyana who was abducted in Padian, Marawi City.
Elyana said he saw Najiya and her husband Mohammadhayan "Otto" Maute bringing food to members of the group at the Bato Mosque in June 2017.
Elyana said he managed to escaped the Maute lair in July 2017.
Najiya was subject of an arrest order issued by the Department of National Defense, the agency in charge of implementing martial law in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025204
PH commitment on SCS claims unwavering: DFA
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): PH commitment on SCS claims unwavering: DFA
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday reiterated the Duterte administration's "unwavering" commitment to protect the country's claim in the disputed territories in the South China Sea, as he defended public silence when developments and issues surface on the sea lane.
A day after the 2nd meeting on the Philippine-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism (BCM) on South China Sea, he cited ongoing talks and continuous diplomatic actions being undertaken to protect the interests of the Philippines in the region.
"Just because we are not in an open shouting match with China, or arguing in public, doesn’t mean that the issues aren’t being dealt with decisively. On the contrary, we are not only exerting efforts but also getting things done," Cayetano said.
Delegations from Manila and Beijing, led by DFA Undersecretary Enrique Manalo and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou, met on Feb. 13 for the BCM.
In a separate press statement from the one jointly issued by the two states, the DFA said both sides expressed respective positions on the ongoing territorial disputes.
"While there are points of disagreement," it said both delegations agreed "to cooperate and properly manage issues of mutual concern and preserve security and stability in the region."
In a phone interview, Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Chito Sta. Romana said by bit, the country is indeed moving forward on the issue.
The envoy was initially asked why the country is not, at the very least, publicly speaking out against China's continuing construction in its reclaimed area.
"We do it through diplomacy, that's the reason," he said, adding this type of issues are directly raised with the Chinese at fora such as the BCM and high-level discussions. "We find it [a] more effective form."
For his part, Cayetano said "the Duterte administration is unwavering in its commitment to protect our country’s territorial claims and maritime entitlements."
Further, he noted Manila is also of the position "that ongoing territorial disputes should be resolved in a manner consistent with the spirit of good neighborly relations and the 1982 UNCLOS."
Positive developments
Mentioning "some positive developments" in the South China Sea, Cayetano said Filipino fishermen have access within the areas in dispute, together with "measures" put in place for all parties to protect the environment and marine ecosystem in the region.
Among others, he said there had been a "commitment by China and all parties not to build on uninhabited features in accordance with the Declaration of Conduct on the South China Sea."
"Let me note that our fishermen are back exercising their livelihood in Scarborough Shoal, and overall, the situation in the greater South China Sea has become more stable than in past years," he said.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday reiterated the Duterte administration's "unwavering" commitment to protect the country's claim in the disputed territories in the South China Sea, as he defended public silence when developments and issues surface on the sea lane.
A day after the 2nd meeting on the Philippine-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism (BCM) on South China Sea, he cited ongoing talks and continuous diplomatic actions being undertaken to protect the interests of the Philippines in the region.
"Just because we are not in an open shouting match with China, or arguing in public, doesn’t mean that the issues aren’t being dealt with decisively. On the contrary, we are not only exerting efforts but also getting things done," Cayetano said.
Delegations from Manila and Beijing, led by DFA Undersecretary Enrique Manalo and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou, met on Feb. 13 for the BCM.
In a separate press statement from the one jointly issued by the two states, the DFA said both sides expressed respective positions on the ongoing territorial disputes.
"While there are points of disagreement," it said both delegations agreed "to cooperate and properly manage issues of mutual concern and preserve security and stability in the region."
In a phone interview, Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Chito Sta. Romana said by bit, the country is indeed moving forward on the issue.
The envoy was initially asked why the country is not, at the very least, publicly speaking out against China's continuing construction in its reclaimed area.
"We do it through diplomacy, that's the reason," he said, adding this type of issues are directly raised with the Chinese at fora such as the BCM and high-level discussions. "We find it [a] more effective form."
For his part, Cayetano said "the Duterte administration is unwavering in its commitment to protect our country’s territorial claims and maritime entitlements."
Further, he noted Manila is also of the position "that ongoing territorial disputes should be resolved in a manner consistent with the spirit of good neighborly relations and the 1982 UNCLOS."
Positive developments
Mentioning "some positive developments" in the South China Sea, Cayetano said Filipino fishermen have access within the areas in dispute, together with "measures" put in place for all parties to protect the environment and marine ecosystem in the region.
Among others, he said there had been a "commitment by China and all parties not to build on uninhabited features in accordance with the Declaration of Conduct on the South China Sea."
"Let me note that our fishermen are back exercising their livelihood in Scarborough Shoal, and overall, the situation in the greater South China Sea has become more stable than in past years," he said.
PH's first transgender solon now an AFP reservist
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): PH's first transgender solon now an AFP reservist
Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman, the country's first ever transgender solon, formally took her oath as a lieutenant colonel in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reserve units Wednesday.
Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, in a statement, said the oath taking ceremonies took place at the Hall of Flags, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Heading her donning ceremonies was DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Also present in the activities were AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero and other ranking defense and security officials. Roman announced her application to the AFP Reserve Force in February 2017.
She also commended and thanked the AFP for allowing individuals from the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Community to join the military.
“War and disaster do not recognize gender, it affects everybody, and everyone must defend and serve our communities, and our country, that is why I am joining the AFP Reserve Force,” the Bataan solon added.
The first transgender military officer is also an advocate for the revival of the mandatory Reserved Officers Training Course (ROTC) for Grades 11 and 12.
She expressed her support for the program during the ROTC Corps Commanders’ Summit and Senior Reservist Commanders’ Conference held on Feb. 22, 2017 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
“We in Congress are working to make the ROTC experience a significant, beneficial and meaningful learning experience for those who will join and we will ensure that the value of Patriotism will be inculcated among the youth through this course,” she said.
Two other House Representatives, Congressman Edwin Marino Ongchuan of Northern Samar and Congresswoman Divina Grace Yu of Zamboanga Del Sur’s 1st District also took their oath as lieutenant colonels in the Army’s Reserve Force.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025323
Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman, the country's first ever transgender solon, formally took her oath as a lieutenant colonel in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reserve units Wednesday.
Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, in a statement, said the oath taking ceremonies took place at the Hall of Flags, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Heading her donning ceremonies was DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Also present in the activities were AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero and other ranking defense and security officials. Roman announced her application to the AFP Reserve Force in February 2017.
She also commended and thanked the AFP for allowing individuals from the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Community to join the military.
“War and disaster do not recognize gender, it affects everybody, and everyone must defend and serve our communities, and our country, that is why I am joining the AFP Reserve Force,” the Bataan solon added.
The first transgender military officer is also an advocate for the revival of the mandatory Reserved Officers Training Course (ROTC) for Grades 11 and 12.
She expressed her support for the program during the ROTC Corps Commanders’ Summit and Senior Reservist Commanders’ Conference held on Feb. 22, 2017 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
“We in Congress are working to make the ROTC experience a significant, beneficial and meaningful learning experience for those who will join and we will ensure that the value of Patriotism will be inculcated among the youth through this course,” she said.
Two other House Representatives, Congressman Edwin Marino Ongchuan of Northern Samar and Congresswoman Divina Grace Yu of Zamboanga Del Sur’s 1st District also took their oath as lieutenant colonels in the Army’s Reserve Force.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025323
PH top officials discuss names on 5 features in PH Rise
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): PH top officials discuss names on 5 features in PH Rise
Various government officials will meet to discuss possible Filipino names to give to the five underwater features in the Philippine Rise (formerly Benham Rise) named by China.
In a message Wednesday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that this matter would be discussed by him, National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon and other members of the Cabinet.
"Pag-uusapan pa namin ni NSA (Esperon) and ibang Cabinet members. (We will talk about it with NSA and other Cabinet members) As for me, I would also give these features Philippine names," he added.
The DND chief made this statement after maritime law expert Dr. Jay Batongbacal revealed that China successfully named five undersea features in the region, all within the 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the country, as approved by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2017.
Three of the features were reportedly "discovered" during a survey by the Li Shiguang Hao of the China Navy Hydrographic Office in 2004 and the names were submitted to IHO for consideration in 2014.
The remaining two features were "discovered" by the same ship but proposals for names came in 2016. The features named are the Jinghao and Tianbao Seamounts said to be within 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan, and the Haidonquing Seamount located east at 190 nautical miles.
The other two named Cuiqiao Hill and Jujiu Seamount forms the central peaks of the Philippine Rise undersea geological province itself, said Batongbacal.
On Wednesday, Malacanang said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing already raised the subject with China.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025326
Various government officials will meet to discuss possible Filipino names to give to the five underwater features in the Philippine Rise (formerly Benham Rise) named by China.
In a message Wednesday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that this matter would be discussed by him, National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon and other members of the Cabinet.
"Pag-uusapan pa namin ni NSA (Esperon) and ibang Cabinet members. (We will talk about it with NSA and other Cabinet members) As for me, I would also give these features Philippine names," he added.
The DND chief made this statement after maritime law expert Dr. Jay Batongbacal revealed that China successfully named five undersea features in the region, all within the 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the country, as approved by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2017.
Three of the features were reportedly "discovered" during a survey by the Li Shiguang Hao of the China Navy Hydrographic Office in 2004 and the names were submitted to IHO for consideration in 2014.
The remaining two features were "discovered" by the same ship but proposals for names came in 2016. The features named are the Jinghao and Tianbao Seamounts said to be within 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan, and the Haidonquing Seamount located east at 190 nautical miles.
The other two named Cuiqiao Hill and Jujiu Seamount forms the central peaks of the Philippine Rise undersea geological province itself, said Batongbacal.
On Wednesday, Malacanang said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing already raised the subject with China.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025326
Chinese names in PH Rise given without consulting PH gov’t
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): Chinese names in PH Rise given without consulting PH gov’t
The decision of a Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)-International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) committee allowing China to name certain undersea features in the Philippine Rise was made without consultation with the Philippine government.
This was the statement made by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon after a maritime law expert, Jay Batongbacal was quoted in a report as saying that the IOC-IHO Subcommittee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN) approved five names China proposed in 2017.
“The decision of the SCUFN was made without due consultation with the Philippine Government,” Esperon said in a statement.
“We do not recognize the Chinese names given to these undersea features in the Philippine Rise,” he added.
Esperon pointed out that as a matter of procedure, the approval of proposals for the naming of undersea features are decided upon solely by the 12-member SCUFN composed of its chair, Germany, and members China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, Italy, and Russia.
He noted that decisions by the SCUFN are deemed as “final and non-appealable.”
But he explained that the SCUFN decided to suspend last year the processing of pending proposals for the naming of undersea features worldwide because of the numerous complaints from many countries regarding its supposed arbitrary and unregulated decision-making process.
Esperon said that the government’s diplomatic posts have been alerted against such future applications in Philippine waters.
He also revealed that the Philippine government has raised its objection to China’s recent initiatives during the meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism held on Tuesday (Feb. 13).
“While the approval by the SCUFN does not confer to the applicant country sovereignty and jurisdiction over the seamounts, the Philippine government had nonetheless raised its objection to China’s recent initiatives, during the meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism held on 13 February 2018,” Esperon said.
Filipino names
Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said that he would discuss possible Filipino names to give to the five underwater features in the Philippine Rise with Esperon and other members of the cabinet.
"Pag-uusapan pa namin ni NSA (Esperon) and ibang Cabinet members. (We will talk about it with NSA and other Cabinet members) As for me, I would also give these features Philippine names," Lorenzana said.
Malacañang said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing has already raised its concern and would consider notifying the IHO Chair about this development.
“They are likewise considering a recommendation to officially notify the Chair of the International Hydrographic Organization -- Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (IHO-IOC GEBCO) Sub-Committee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said in a statement.
He noted that the Philippines is not a member of the 12-member state SCUFN.
Three of the five features given Chinese names were reportedly "discovered" during a survey by the Li Shiguang Hao of the China Navy Hydrographic Office in 2004 and the names were submitted to IHO for consideration in 2014.
The remaining two features were "discovered" by the same ship but proposals for names came in 2016. The features named are the Jinghao and Tianbao Seamounts said to be within 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan, and the Haidonquing Seamount located east at 190 nautical miles.
The other two named Cuiqiao Hill and Jujiu Seamount forms the central peaks of the Philippine Rise undersea geological province itself, said Batongbacal.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025329
The decision of a Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)-International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) committee allowing China to name certain undersea features in the Philippine Rise was made without consultation with the Philippine government.
This was the statement made by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon after a maritime law expert, Jay Batongbacal was quoted in a report as saying that the IOC-IHO Subcommittee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN) approved five names China proposed in 2017.
“The decision of the SCUFN was made without due consultation with the Philippine Government,” Esperon said in a statement.
“We do not recognize the Chinese names given to these undersea features in the Philippine Rise,” he added.
Esperon pointed out that as a matter of procedure, the approval of proposals for the naming of undersea features are decided upon solely by the 12-member SCUFN composed of its chair, Germany, and members China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, Italy, and Russia.
He noted that decisions by the SCUFN are deemed as “final and non-appealable.”
But he explained that the SCUFN decided to suspend last year the processing of pending proposals for the naming of undersea features worldwide because of the numerous complaints from many countries regarding its supposed arbitrary and unregulated decision-making process.
Esperon said that the government’s diplomatic posts have been alerted against such future applications in Philippine waters.
He also revealed that the Philippine government has raised its objection to China’s recent initiatives during the meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism held on Tuesday (Feb. 13).
“While the approval by the SCUFN does not confer to the applicant country sovereignty and jurisdiction over the seamounts, the Philippine government had nonetheless raised its objection to China’s recent initiatives, during the meeting of the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultative Mechanism held on 13 February 2018,” Esperon said.
Filipino names
Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said that he would discuss possible Filipino names to give to the five underwater features in the Philippine Rise with Esperon and other members of the cabinet.
"Pag-uusapan pa namin ni NSA (Esperon) and ibang Cabinet members. (We will talk about it with NSA and other Cabinet members) As for me, I would also give these features Philippine names," Lorenzana said.
Malacañang said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing has already raised its concern and would consider notifying the IHO Chair about this development.
“They are likewise considering a recommendation to officially notify the Chair of the International Hydrographic Organization -- Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (IHO-IOC GEBCO) Sub-Committee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said in a statement.
He noted that the Philippines is not a member of the 12-member state SCUFN.
Three of the five features given Chinese names were reportedly "discovered" during a survey by the Li Shiguang Hao of the China Navy Hydrographic Office in 2004 and the names were submitted to IHO for consideration in 2014.
The remaining two features were "discovered" by the same ship but proposals for names came in 2016. The features named are the Jinghao and Tianbao Seamounts said to be within 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan, and the Haidonquing Seamount located east at 190 nautical miles.
The other two named Cuiqiao Hill and Jujiu Seamount forms the central peaks of the Philippine Rise undersea geological province itself, said Batongbacal.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025329
Palace: No bad faith on China’s naming of PH Rise features
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): Palace: No bad faith on China’s naming of PH Rise features
While it is objecting to China’s naming of Philippine Rise underwater features, Malacanang finds no bad faith on China’s action since it was just a scientific process.
“We are not attributing bad faith to China,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday, a day after he objected to China’s move to name five undersea features at the Philippine Rise.
Roque explained that China may have just followed the United Nations' scientific process in giving names to areas discovered by a certain country.
“Basically it is not a political process. It is a scientific process. If I am not mistaken, a country which discovered these, they are the one which will give names,” he further explained.
China is one of the countries which conducted scientific research at the Philippine Rise before President Rodrigo Duterte recently ordered to stop foreign explorations in the area also known as Benham Rise.
According to media reports, the five undersea waters that have now Chinese names include Jinghao, Tianbao, Haidonquing and Jujiu Seamounts and Cuiqiao Hill.
Despite China’s action, Roque said there is nothing to be alarmed because China recognizes the Philippines’ sovereign rights at the Philippine Rise.
“Giving name does not mean they are claiming it. China recognizes that they have no any rights at the Philippine Rise and they recognize our sovereign rights,” Roque said.
“The naming does not entail sovereign rights because sovereign rights is exclusive right to explore and exploit, conduct scientific research, lay submarine cables and build artificial islands including right to over flight,” he added.
Roque, nevertheless, said the Philippines would not use the Chinese names but instead Filipino names would be given to each underwater feature found at the Philippine Rise.
“Our stand, it’s up to them (if other countries will give name). But on our part, we will give Filipino names just like what we did in ignoring the name that the Americans used. It is now a Philippine rise,” Roque said.
He expressed hope that China will not take it against the Philippines if the Filipinos will not use the Chinese names.
“It is clear that Philippine Rise is under our sovereign rights. We don’t see basis for China to be alarmed with our position that we will insist on our naming rights,” Roque said.
Roque also believed that the issue will not affect the improving relations between China and the Philippines under the Duterte administration.
“It will not be affected because there is no controversy. Maybe it will affect only if this thing happened in areas where there is an ongoing dispute,” he added.
The Philippines and China as well as Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei have competing claims in the West Philippine Sea or South China Sea.
Meanwhile, Roque said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is now nominating a Filipino expert to become a member of the UN body which does scientific process in naming undersea features.
“I’m not in authority to name him but he is a scientist,” he said.
The Philippine Rise, located in the east side of the Philippines, is a 13-million hectare territory which the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (UNCLCS) awarded to the Philippines as part of the country's extended continental shelf in 2012.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025381
While it is objecting to China’s naming of Philippine Rise underwater features, Malacanang finds no bad faith on China’s action since it was just a scientific process.
“We are not attributing bad faith to China,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday, a day after he objected to China’s move to name five undersea features at the Philippine Rise.
Roque explained that China may have just followed the United Nations' scientific process in giving names to areas discovered by a certain country.
“Basically it is not a political process. It is a scientific process. If I am not mistaken, a country which discovered these, they are the one which will give names,” he further explained.
China is one of the countries which conducted scientific research at the Philippine Rise before President Rodrigo Duterte recently ordered to stop foreign explorations in the area also known as Benham Rise.
According to media reports, the five undersea waters that have now Chinese names include Jinghao, Tianbao, Haidonquing and Jujiu Seamounts and Cuiqiao Hill.
Despite China’s action, Roque said there is nothing to be alarmed because China recognizes the Philippines’ sovereign rights at the Philippine Rise.
“Giving name does not mean they are claiming it. China recognizes that they have no any rights at the Philippine Rise and they recognize our sovereign rights,” Roque said.
“The naming does not entail sovereign rights because sovereign rights is exclusive right to explore and exploit, conduct scientific research, lay submarine cables and build artificial islands including right to over flight,” he added.
Roque, nevertheless, said the Philippines would not use the Chinese names but instead Filipino names would be given to each underwater feature found at the Philippine Rise.
“Our stand, it’s up to them (if other countries will give name). But on our part, we will give Filipino names just like what we did in ignoring the name that the Americans used. It is now a Philippine rise,” Roque said.
He expressed hope that China will not take it against the Philippines if the Filipinos will not use the Chinese names.
“It is clear that Philippine Rise is under our sovereign rights. We don’t see basis for China to be alarmed with our position that we will insist on our naming rights,” Roque said.
Roque also believed that the issue will not affect the improving relations between China and the Philippines under the Duterte administration.
“It will not be affected because there is no controversy. Maybe it will affect only if this thing happened in areas where there is an ongoing dispute,” he added.
The Philippines and China as well as Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei have competing claims in the West Philippine Sea or South China Sea.
Meanwhile, Roque said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is now nominating a Filipino expert to become a member of the UN body which does scientific process in naming undersea features.
“I’m not in authority to name him but he is a scientist,” he said.
The Philippine Rise, located in the east side of the Philippines, is a 13-million hectare territory which the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (UNCLCS) awarded to the Philippines as part of the country's extended continental shelf in 2012.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1025381
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