From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): No threats detected yet for barangay, SK polls: AFP
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has yet to detect any security threat in connection with the conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.
"We have not monitored any current threat to the election or the preparations to it, but continuous security measures are being undertaken to thwart any possible actions from usual peace spoilers, armed groups and terrorist elements that might take advantage of the situation," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin said in a text message Monday.
However, he said the AFP, in support of the Philippine National Police (PNP), will conduct appropriate measures to secure the upcoming polls.
"Joint AFP-PNP troops will be deployed to man checkpoints in different areas to provide assistance to civilians, deter and prevent any move of interest groups that might be inimical to good order; and protect the general populace," he added.
Datuin earlier said AFP personnel can be deputized to set up checkpoints and monitor cities and municipalities to curb security threats and election-related violence.
The military is also on alert against communist rebels who will take advantage of the village polls to sow terror and commit other atrocities.
"Particular concern is the usual extortion and unlawful intervention of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) in elections in the form of permit to campaign fees, permit to win fees and harrassment of candidates," Datuin said.
He added that the AFP is ready to respond and take necessary measures to safeguard the people and the election process.
During the May 2016 national elections, the AFP launched its National Election Monitoring Center (NEMC) which utilized information-related capabilities to monitor the preparations for, and the actual conduct of elections and the canvassing process.
It also monitored election-related violence especially in identified election watch areas and provided necessary data for decision-making and execution of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and its deputized agencies.
Consolidated efforts of the AFP to secure the elections were coursed through its Unified Commands and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.
Operations related to the security of the election were also done in coordination with the Joint Security Coordination Centers at the regional, provincial, and independent city levels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032027
Sunday, April 15, 2018
Eastmincom on alert vs. possible NPA interference in polls
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Eastmincom on alert vs. possible NPA interference in polls
To prevent the New People's Army (NPA) from influencing the outcome of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls on May 14, all Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) units will be on active footing especially in areas where the rebel activities are rampant.
This was emphasized by Eastmincom head Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal when sought for a comment on how to prevent the NPAs from interfering in the coming polls.
"Ang mga ano naman natin (troops) active (naman sila) lalo na dun sa mga areas na nandun (ang NPA), nandun naman mga tao natin, hanggang sa ngayon tuluy-tuloy naman ang operation natin (Our troops are active especially in areas where there are NPA. Our people are there. Until now, our operations are ongoing)," he added.
The Eastmincom is the military command tasked to secure Eastern and Northern Mindanao from external and internal threats.
But Madrigal stressed that they are still to detect any plans of the NPAs to campaign for any particular candidates.
"So far wala pa naman (there is none), wala pa akong na-monitor na (threat), kasi ngayon pa lang nag-uumpisa yung ano ng campaign (I haven't monitored any threats yet because we just started the campaign), we will see, titingnan natin yan (we will look into that) in the next few days," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032038
To prevent the New People's Army (NPA) from influencing the outcome of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls on May 14, all Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) units will be on active footing especially in areas where the rebel activities are rampant.
This was emphasized by Eastmincom head Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal when sought for a comment on how to prevent the NPAs from interfering in the coming polls.
"Ang mga ano naman natin (troops) active (naman sila) lalo na dun sa mga areas na nandun (ang NPA), nandun naman mga tao natin, hanggang sa ngayon tuluy-tuloy naman ang operation natin (Our troops are active especially in areas where there are NPA. Our people are there. Until now, our operations are ongoing)," he added.
The Eastmincom is the military command tasked to secure Eastern and Northern Mindanao from external and internal threats.
But Madrigal stressed that they are still to detect any plans of the NPAs to campaign for any particular candidates.
"So far wala pa naman (there is none), wala pa akong na-monitor na (threat), kasi ngayon pa lang nag-uumpisa yung ano ng campaign (I haven't monitored any threats yet because we just started the campaign), we will see, titingnan natin yan (we will look into that) in the next few days," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032038
Bato breaks in new PNP helicopter
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Bato breaks in new PNP helicopter
NEW HELICOPTER. Outgoing PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa and other police officials board the test flight of one of three brand new multi-role helicopters purchased for the PNP on Monday (April 16, 2018). (Photo by Benjamin Pulta)
Outgoing Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa on Monday boarded the first of three brand new multi-role helicopters purchased for the PNP.
"The Bell 429 twin engine rotary wing aircraft will greatly enhance the operational flexibility by providing air support to ground troops. This multi-role police helicopter is designed to perform a variety of support missions," Dela Rosa told reporters shortly before boarding the helicopter which flew to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in Baguio City.
The helicopter was acquired through public bidding and the contract was awarded on June 28, 2017 to Bell Helicopters Textron of Fort Worth, Texas for a contract price of PHP435 million. The unit was delivered and inspected on April 12, three months ahead of the delivery schedule on July 5.
The 42 foot-long, 13 feet high aircraft has a crew of one pilot and can carry up to seven passengers including one beside the pilot. It is powered by two engines and is rated for a range of up to 722 km and a cruising speed of 270 kph.
As part of the deal, PNP pilots will undergo training in Texas.
Meanwhile, plans for the training of more than a dozen pilots to man the four helicopters scheduled to be delivered next year are underway.
At present, the air assets component of the PNP is limited to a single Cessna 150. Government audit policies do not allow the repair of aircraft when the cost of such procedure would amount to an excess of 30 percent of its acquisition value.
This policy prompted the purchase of new aircraft instead.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032047
NEW HELICOPTER. Outgoing PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa and other police officials board the test flight of one of three brand new multi-role helicopters purchased for the PNP on Monday (April 16, 2018). (Photo by Benjamin Pulta)
Outgoing Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa on Monday boarded the first of three brand new multi-role helicopters purchased for the PNP.
"The Bell 429 twin engine rotary wing aircraft will greatly enhance the operational flexibility by providing air support to ground troops. This multi-role police helicopter is designed to perform a variety of support missions," Dela Rosa told reporters shortly before boarding the helicopter which flew to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in Baguio City.
The helicopter was acquired through public bidding and the contract was awarded on June 28, 2017 to Bell Helicopters Textron of Fort Worth, Texas for a contract price of PHP435 million. The unit was delivered and inspected on April 12, three months ahead of the delivery schedule on July 5.
The 42 foot-long, 13 feet high aircraft has a crew of one pilot and can carry up to seven passengers including one beside the pilot. It is powered by two engines and is rated for a range of up to 722 km and a cruising speed of 270 kph.
As part of the deal, PNP pilots will undergo training in Texas.
Meanwhile, plans for the training of more than a dozen pilots to man the four helicopters scheduled to be delivered next year are underway.
At present, the air assets component of the PNP is limited to a single Cessna 150. Government audit policies do not allow the repair of aircraft when the cost of such procedure would amount to an excess of 30 percent of its acquisition value.
This policy prompted the purchase of new aircraft instead.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032047
Outgoing AFP chief: Galvez very capable of leading military
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Outgoing AFP chief: Galvez very capable of leading military
Incoming Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez is very capable of leading the 120,000-strong military, outgoing AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said Sunday.
Guerrero said Galvez's competence was proven by his ability to lead and command various forces which includes battalion and brigade-sized formations.
Aside from this, Galvez also served as staff officer at the AFP General Headquarters and special duties as head of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities.
"Most recently, he has distinguished himself as a Western Mindanao commander during the Marawi Siege. So he (is) more than capable," Guerrero said.
Guerrero, who is scheduled to step down on Wednesday, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1984.
His replacement, Galvez, is a member of PMA Class of 1985.
The incoming AFP chief was a recipient of the United States Eisenhower Fellowships in 2006 and was adjudged as one of the “The Outstanding Philippine Soldier (TOPS) in 2007.
During Galvez's stint as 1st Scout Ranger Battalion commander, which operated in Sulu and Basilan against the Abu Sayyaf terrorists, the unit was named Best Scout Ranger Battalion in 2000 and 2001.
It was also chosen as the Philippine Army Best Battalion for Combat Operations in 2002.
He is also a recipient of the Military Merit Medal, Military Commendation Medal, Gold Cross Medal, Distinguished Service Star, Leadership Award and Outstanding Achievement Medal.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032030
Incoming Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez is very capable of leading the 120,000-strong military, outgoing AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said Sunday.
Guerrero said Galvez's competence was proven by his ability to lead and command various forces which includes battalion and brigade-sized formations.
Aside from this, Galvez also served as staff officer at the AFP General Headquarters and special duties as head of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities.
"Most recently, he has distinguished himself as a Western Mindanao commander during the Marawi Siege. So he (is) more than capable," Guerrero said.
Guerrero, who is scheduled to step down on Wednesday, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1984.
His replacement, Galvez, is a member of PMA Class of 1985.
The incoming AFP chief was a recipient of the United States Eisenhower Fellowships in 2006 and was adjudged as one of the “The Outstanding Philippine Soldier (TOPS) in 2007.
During Galvez's stint as 1st Scout Ranger Battalion commander, which operated in Sulu and Basilan against the Abu Sayyaf terrorists, the unit was named Best Scout Ranger Battalion in 2000 and 2001.
It was also chosen as the Philippine Army Best Battalion for Combat Operations in 2002.
He is also a recipient of the Military Merit Medal, Military Commendation Medal, Gold Cross Medal, Distinguished Service Star, Leadership Award and Outstanding Achievement Medal.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032030
Bato: Outstanding benefits for SAF men to be settled soon
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Bato: Outstanding benefits for SAF men to be settled soon
Outgoing Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa assured members of the Special Action Force (SAF) who served in the Marawi siege that outstanding allowances which reportedly remain unpaid will be settled soon under the new PNP leadership.
"I really felt bad. Kung totoo yan Galit ako (If that's true, I'm really mad)," dela Rosa told reporters in his last press conference as PNP chief in connection with the alleged non-delivery of PHP68 million in subsistence allowance for SAF units in Marawi.
"(T)hey will receive what is due them and huwag lang sila maghimutok (they should not whine). Everything will be taken cared of by the incoming leadership," dela Rosa said when sought for comment on the complaint filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against former SAF chief Benjamin Lusad and other finance officials of the PNP.
Dela Rosa said the Ombudsman investigation into the criminal and administrative aspect of the controversy will uncover the truth, adding that they will not preempt the investigation by the anti-graft office.
The PNP chief said that preliminary meetings with the former budget officer of SAF and the director of the unit are optimistic that the sum will be found and distributed but said the amount cited could be an exaggeration.
"It doesn't mean that a complaint is the whole truth, the sum could be smaller so an Ombudsman investigation is needed. And regardless if the case was filed or not, according to the former budget officer of SAF and the director, the troops will get what they are looking for," dela Rosa noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032036
Outgoing Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa assured members of the Special Action Force (SAF) who served in the Marawi siege that outstanding allowances which reportedly remain unpaid will be settled soon under the new PNP leadership.
"I really felt bad. Kung totoo yan Galit ako (If that's true, I'm really mad)," dela Rosa told reporters in his last press conference as PNP chief in connection with the alleged non-delivery of PHP68 million in subsistence allowance for SAF units in Marawi.
"(T)hey will receive what is due them and huwag lang sila maghimutok (they should not whine). Everything will be taken cared of by the incoming leadership," dela Rosa said when sought for comment on the complaint filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against former SAF chief Benjamin Lusad and other finance officials of the PNP.
Dela Rosa said the Ombudsman investigation into the criminal and administrative aspect of the controversy will uncover the truth, adding that they will not preempt the investigation by the anti-graft office.
The PNP chief said that preliminary meetings with the former budget officer of SAF and the director of the unit are optimistic that the sum will be found and distributed but said the amount cited could be an exaggeration.
"It doesn't mean that a complaint is the whole truth, the sum could be smaller so an Ombudsman investigation is needed. And regardless if the case was filed or not, according to the former budget officer of SAF and the director, the troops will get what they are looking for," dela Rosa noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032036
Japan’s JS Akizuki, PH Navy to hold passing exercise
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14): Japan’s JS Akizuki, PH Navy to hold passing exercise
The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer, JS Akizuki (DD-115), will be capping her three-day goodwill visit to the Philippines with a passing exercise (PASSEX) with Philippine naval units on Monday.
This was confirmed by Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna in an e-mail message Friday.
A PASSEX consists of sea drills done to ensure synchronization of communication and cooperation between the participating Navies in combined naval operations.
The JS Akizuki docked off the Alava Wharf at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority in Olongapo City on Friday. The destroyer and its 200 officers and enlisted personnel will leave on April 16.
Before docking at the Alava Wharf, the JS Akizuki was given a meeting point procedure off Morong, Bataan by BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS-35). JS Akizuki is commanded by Commander Kazunori Ishii.
Also aboard was Capt. Ryoko Azuma, JMSDF Escort Division One commander. Azuma is the first female to command a JMSDF squadron, which includes the helicopter carrier, the JS Izumo (DDH-183), which also visited the Philippines in June last year.
Her appointment took place last March 6, Lincuna said.
"The visit aims to strengthen the relationship between the two navies. It will further enhance and sustain the promotion of peace, stability and maritime cooperation of the two countries through naval diplomacy and camaraderie," Lincuna said.
And as in their previous visits, the JMSDF personnel will engage in a series of confidence-building exercises with their Philippine Navy counterparts, which include goodwill games and boodle fight.
The JS Akizuki is a member of the Azisuki-class destroyers designed to protect the JMSDF's Hyuga class and Izumo class helicopter destroyers and escort other sophisticated Japanese naval vessels.
Designed to engage surface, sub-surface and air threats, JS Akizuki weighs 6,800 tons at full load and is capable of cruising at a speed of 30 knots.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031942
The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer, JS Akizuki (DD-115), will be capping her three-day goodwill visit to the Philippines with a passing exercise (PASSEX) with Philippine naval units on Monday.
This was confirmed by Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna in an e-mail message Friday.
A PASSEX consists of sea drills done to ensure synchronization of communication and cooperation between the participating Navies in combined naval operations.
The JS Akizuki docked off the Alava Wharf at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority in Olongapo City on Friday. The destroyer and its 200 officers and enlisted personnel will leave on April 16.
Before docking at the Alava Wharf, the JS Akizuki was given a meeting point procedure off Morong, Bataan by BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS-35). JS Akizuki is commanded by Commander Kazunori Ishii.
Also aboard was Capt. Ryoko Azuma, JMSDF Escort Division One commander. Azuma is the first female to command a JMSDF squadron, which includes the helicopter carrier, the JS Izumo (DDH-183), which also visited the Philippines in June last year.
Her appointment took place last March 6, Lincuna said.
"The visit aims to strengthen the relationship between the two navies. It will further enhance and sustain the promotion of peace, stability and maritime cooperation of the two countries through naval diplomacy and camaraderie," Lincuna said.
And as in their previous visits, the JMSDF personnel will engage in a series of confidence-building exercises with their Philippine Navy counterparts, which include goodwill games and boodle fight.
The JS Akizuki is a member of the Azisuki-class destroyers designed to protect the JMSDF's Hyuga class and Izumo class helicopter destroyers and escort other sophisticated Japanese naval vessels.
Designed to engage surface, sub-surface and air threats, JS Akizuki weighs 6,800 tons at full load and is capable of cruising at a speed of 30 knots.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031942
Military to ensure peaceful May village polls
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Military to ensure peaceful May village polls
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will coordinate with concerned authorities to ensure a peaceful and orderly Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.
This was emphasized by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin in a text message Saturday.
"The AFP in coordination with the Comelec (Commission on Elections) and the PNP (Philippine National Police) will work for an honest, orderly and peaceful Barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan election," he added.
Datuin said AFP personnel can be deputized to set up checkpoints and monitor cities and municipalities to curb security threats and election-related violence.
During the May 2016 national elections, the AFP launched its National Election Monitoring Center (NEMC) which utilized information-related capabilities to monitor the preparations for and the actual conduct of elections and the canvassing process.
It also monitored election-related violence especially in identified election watch areas and provided necessary data for decision-making and execution of the Comelec and its deputized agencies.
Consolidated efforts of the AFP to secure the elections were coursed through its Unified Commands and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.
Operations related to the security of the election were also done in coordination with the Joint Security Coordination Centers at the regional, provincial, and independent city levels.
On Saturday, the Comelec started accepting certificates of candidacies of persons vying for elective barangay posts.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031986
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will coordinate with concerned authorities to ensure a peaceful and orderly Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.
This was emphasized by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin in a text message Saturday.
"The AFP in coordination with the Comelec (Commission on Elections) and the PNP (Philippine National Police) will work for an honest, orderly and peaceful Barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan election," he added.
Datuin said AFP personnel can be deputized to set up checkpoints and monitor cities and municipalities to curb security threats and election-related violence.
During the May 2016 national elections, the AFP launched its National Election Monitoring Center (NEMC) which utilized information-related capabilities to monitor the preparations for and the actual conduct of elections and the canvassing process.
It also monitored election-related violence especially in identified election watch areas and provided necessary data for decision-making and execution of the Comelec and its deputized agencies.
Consolidated efforts of the AFP to secure the elections were coursed through its Unified Commands and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.
Operations related to the security of the election were also done in coordination with the Joint Security Coordination Centers at the regional, provincial, and independent city levels.
On Saturday, the Comelec started accepting certificates of candidacies of persons vying for elective barangay posts.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031986
BCDA, FBDC honor troops with 'Alab Ng Puso' sculpture
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): BCDA, FBDC honor troops with 'Alab Ng Puso' sculpture
In a show of gratitude for their dedication in defending the nation against all forms of threats, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC) will unveil on Monday a sculpture called “Alab ng Puso” as a tribute to the services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
"Alab ng Puso"(Fire in the Heart), is sculpted by artist Daniel dela Cruz, portrays an ordinary Filipino soldier with his weapon set aside, reading a letter from his family.
“The Alab ng Puso sculpture is a fitting tribute to the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, always putting country first above self,” BCDA president and chief executive Vivencio Dizon said in a statement Sunday.
The event officially kicks off the BGC Historical Markers Project initiated by the BCDA, in collaboration with the FBDC and the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI).
The installation of historical markers at the Bonifacio Global City is also an initiative to promote the historical value of Fort Bonifacio, a former military camp.
The AFP is a major stakeholder of the BCDA. In line with its commitment to strengthen the Armed Forces while building great cities, BCDA has already contributed PHP8 billion to the modernization program of the AFP during the first two years of the Duterte administration.
In total, the AFP has received PHP40 billion from BCDA since the agency was created in 1992.
During the event, AFP vice chief-of- staff Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. will represent President Rodrigo Duterte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031995
In a show of gratitude for their dedication in defending the nation against all forms of threats, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC) will unveil on Monday a sculpture called “Alab ng Puso” as a tribute to the services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
"Alab ng Puso"(Fire in the Heart), is sculpted by artist Daniel dela Cruz, portrays an ordinary Filipino soldier with his weapon set aside, reading a letter from his family.
“The Alab ng Puso sculpture is a fitting tribute to the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, always putting country first above self,” BCDA president and chief executive Vivencio Dizon said in a statement Sunday.
The event officially kicks off the BGC Historical Markers Project initiated by the BCDA, in collaboration with the FBDC and the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI).
The installation of historical markers at the Bonifacio Global City is also an initiative to promote the historical value of Fort Bonifacio, a former military camp.
The AFP is a major stakeholder of the BCDA. In line with its commitment to strengthen the Armed Forces while building great cities, BCDA has already contributed PHP8 billion to the modernization program of the AFP during the first two years of the Duterte administration.
In total, the AFP has received PHP40 billion from BCDA since the agency was created in 1992.
During the event, AFP vice chief-of- staff Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. will represent President Rodrigo Duterte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031995
Guevarra to consult Esperon, Dureza on terror tag petition vs. CPP
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Guevarra to consult Esperon, Dureza on terror tag petition vs. CPP
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Saturday said he would consult first with National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza before deciding on whether to review or withdraw the petition seeking to declare the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as terrorist groups.
“As this involves national security, I’ll have to consult first with our National Security Adviser and the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. This is not an ordinary criminal prosecution,” Guevarra said in a text message sent to reporters.
Guevarra made the statement when sought for comment on the statement of Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate urging him to review the petition filed by his predecessor Vitaliano Aguirre II last February.
Zarate said Guevarra should include in his review the list of some 600 names included in the petition, which the party-list lawmaker said may be used as a “hit list’ against such persons.
Among those included in the list submitted by the DOJ are CPP founder Jose Maria Sison, peace negotiator Luis Jalandoni, former lawmaker and leftist leader Satur Ocampo, and Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, UN special rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples.
Prior to Aguirre’s resignation, Justice Undersecretary Erickson Balmes said they will push through with the petition despite President Rodrigo R. Duterte's order to give the peace talks with the communist rebels a “last chance.”
‘We are all for peace. However, the peace talks have not actually resumed. We will comply with any new directive of our President on this matter. For the time being, there being no order to the contrary, we will pursue the petition, as filed,” Balmes said.
During the Cabinet meeting, Dureza said the President directed them to work on the resumption of talks with the communist rebels with “clear instructions on the importance of forging a ceasefire agreement to stop mutual attacks and fighting while talks are underway.”
Duterte initiated formal peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF) shortly after winning the presidency in 2016 but canceled them in November last year amid continued attacks of the NPA on government forces and civilians.
The President signed a proclamation in December 2017 declaring the CPP-NPA as a terror organization using Republic Act (RA) No. 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 as basis.
In a 55-page proscription petition, the DOJ asked the Manila Regional Trial Court to issue an order declaring the CPP and NPA, also known as the Bagong Hukbong Bayan, as terrorist and outlawed organizations, associations or group of persons pursuant to Section 17 of RA 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007.
The petition was basically based on two grounds: that the organization, association or group of persons was organized for the purpose of engaging in terrorism; and that even if the organization, association or group of persons was not organized to engage in terrorism, it still commits acts of terrorism, such as murder and arson and other activities, for the purpose of sowing terror.
The petition also said that the CPP-NPA are just buying time by deceiving the government in entering into peace talks while their main purpose is to mobilize their forces in preparation for a “people’s war” to overthrow the duly-constituted authorities, seize control of the government, and impose a totalitarian regime.
It added that the CPP-NPA also committed acts of terrorism, such as murder, kidnapping, arson and other activities, to sow terror and panic.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031989
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Saturday said he would consult first with National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza before deciding on whether to review or withdraw the petition seeking to declare the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as terrorist groups.
“As this involves national security, I’ll have to consult first with our National Security Adviser and the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. This is not an ordinary criminal prosecution,” Guevarra said in a text message sent to reporters.
Guevarra made the statement when sought for comment on the statement of Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate urging him to review the petition filed by his predecessor Vitaliano Aguirre II last February.
Zarate said Guevarra should include in his review the list of some 600 names included in the petition, which the party-list lawmaker said may be used as a “hit list’ against such persons.
Among those included in the list submitted by the DOJ are CPP founder Jose Maria Sison, peace negotiator Luis Jalandoni, former lawmaker and leftist leader Satur Ocampo, and Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, UN special rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples.
Prior to Aguirre’s resignation, Justice Undersecretary Erickson Balmes said they will push through with the petition despite President Rodrigo R. Duterte's order to give the peace talks with the communist rebels a “last chance.”
‘We are all for peace. However, the peace talks have not actually resumed. We will comply with any new directive of our President on this matter. For the time being, there being no order to the contrary, we will pursue the petition, as filed,” Balmes said.
During the Cabinet meeting, Dureza said the President directed them to work on the resumption of talks with the communist rebels with “clear instructions on the importance of forging a ceasefire agreement to stop mutual attacks and fighting while talks are underway.”
Duterte initiated formal peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF) shortly after winning the presidency in 2016 but canceled them in November last year amid continued attacks of the NPA on government forces and civilians.
The President signed a proclamation in December 2017 declaring the CPP-NPA as a terror organization using Republic Act (RA) No. 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 as basis.
In a 55-page proscription petition, the DOJ asked the Manila Regional Trial Court to issue an order declaring the CPP and NPA, also known as the Bagong Hukbong Bayan, as terrorist and outlawed organizations, associations or group of persons pursuant to Section 17 of RA 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007.
The petition was basically based on two grounds: that the organization, association or group of persons was organized for the purpose of engaging in terrorism; and that even if the organization, association or group of persons was not organized to engage in terrorism, it still commits acts of terrorism, such as murder and arson and other activities, for the purpose of sowing terror.
The petition also said that the CPP-NPA are just buying time by deceiving the government in entering into peace talks while their main purpose is to mobilize their forces in preparation for a “people’s war” to overthrow the duly-constituted authorities, seize control of the government, and impose a totalitarian regime.
It added that the CPP-NPA also committed acts of terrorism, such as murder, kidnapping, arson and other activities, to sow terror and panic.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031989
4 PAF attack planes up for repairs
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): 4 PAF attack planes up for repairs
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is looking for suppliers of spare parts needed for the maintenance of four of its Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack planes.
The budget for the project, as stated in the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website, is PHP52,753,000.
The spare parts are intended for the maintenance of OV-10 aircraft with tail numbers 136, 139, 145, and 402.
Submission and opening of bids is on April 26, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Ferynl Buca said in the same bid bulletin.
The OV-10s are the PAF's premier ground attack aircraft. Around six to eight units are still in service as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031987
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is looking for suppliers of spare parts needed for the maintenance of four of its Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack planes.
The budget for the project, as stated in the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website, is PHP52,753,000.
The spare parts are intended for the maintenance of OV-10 aircraft with tail numbers 136, 139, 145, and 402.
Submission and opening of bids is on April 26, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Ferynl Buca said in the same bid bulletin.
The OV-10s are the PAF's premier ground attack aircraft. Around six to eight units are still in service as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1031987
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