New Philippine Military Chief Expects No ‘Shooting War’ Over South China Sea

Posted to Radio Free Asia (Oct 10, 2019): New Philippine Military Chief Expects No ‘Shooting War’ Over South China Sea

Lt. Gen. Noel Clement (center), the Philippine military’s new chief of staff, is seen with other officers at the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines in Manila, Oct. 10, 2019.  BenarNews

The Philippine military backs diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions with Beijing over the South China Sea, the new commander of the armed forces said Thursday, casting doubt that war would break out despite Chinese forays into contested waters.

While troops are expected to secure or defend Philippine sovereignty, “war is not a primary instrument in resolving international conflict,” Lt. Gen. Noel Clement told the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) in Manila.

“We support the government’s strategy in resolving this conflict through peaceful and diplomatic means, so as to prevent the escalation of tension between our nations,” said Clement, who was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte in September as chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Last week, the Philippine foreign office filed the latest in a series of diplomatic protests with Beijing over Chinese activities in the sea region after Clement told a congressional body that the military had recently spotted Chinese vessels in the waters around Ayungin Shoal.

Ayungin, known as Second Thomas Shoal internationally, lies west of the Philippine island of Palawan. Manila maintains a small contingent of marines who are stationed at Ayungin aboard a dilapidated navy vessel. The ship was deliberately marooned there to serve as a Philippine outpost in the area.

The shoal lies only 20 nautical miles (37 km) from Panganiban Reef, or Mischief Reef, where Beijing maintains military outposts.

“I do not think it is going to a point that there is [going to be] an actual conflict – meaning a shooting war,” Clement told reporters at FOCAP.

The number of Chinese ships that have been spotted in and around Ayungin seems to be fluctuating because of several factors, including the weather, the general said.

The Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, which is a program of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, an American think-tank, reported last month that Chinese coast guard ships were patrolling near Ayungin and other shoals also claimed by the Philippines in the South China Sea.

China claims nearly all of the maritime region, considered by security experts as a potential flash point for future war. The Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam and Taiwan also claim parts of the sea.

China has agreed with Southeast Asian nations not to engage in activities that could provoke war, but its actions have gone in the opposite direction. Beijing has expanded and militarized islands it occupies, created airports and installed missiles.

During a trip to Beijing in August, President Duterte tried to raise the South China Sea dispute with his counterpart Xi Jinping, who rebuffed his attempt. A presidential spokesman in Manila said the Filipino leader broached the topic in a “friendly, assertive and unequivocal manner,” but Xi did not respond.

Since becoming president three years ago, Duterte has shifted the Philippines’ foreign policy towards China and Russia, traditional rivals of the United States, Manila’s military ally for the past seven decades.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/philippines-southchinasea-10102019195805.html

Amphibious Ops, Air Defense Key in Philippines Exercise With U.S., Japanese Forces

From the US Naval Institute (Oct 10, 2019): Amphibious Ops, Air Defense Key in Philippines Exercise With U.S., Japanese Forces



Marine Lance Cpl. David Lancheros shares his knowledge about the engagement process of a FIM-92 stinger missile with Philippine Airman 2nd class Sherwin Faoeranga during a subject matter expert exchange as part of exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines on Oct. 9, 2019. US Marine Corps Photo

U.S. Marines are sharpening their amphibious skills right alongside amphibious assault vehicle crews of Philippine Marines and Japanese sea soldiers in a series of exercises that aim to tighten cooperation between the three nations.

The Philippine-led exercise, known as KAMANDAG, runs Oct. 9 to 18 with about 2,000 troops training at locations in Luzon and Palawan. Kamandag is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Manirigma Ng Dagat,” meaning “Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea.”

The Philippine-led exercise, known as KAMANDAG, runs Oct. 9 to 18 with about 2,000 troops training at locations in Luzon and Palawan. Kamandag is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Manirigma Ng Dagat,” meaning “Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea.”

This year marks the third iteration of the U.S.-Philippines bilateral exercise and the second that also includes Japan, which continues to build capabilities in its self-defense forces that include the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade. The exercise will feature 1,400 U.S. forces and 100 members of the Japan Self-Defense Force, a Philippine Marine spokesman, Capt. Felix Serapio, told The Manila Times on Tuesday.

The interoperability among all three countries marks an important opportunity to build military cooperation and exchanges, especially at a troop-to-troop level as both Japan and the Philippines this year continue, separately, to grow their small fleets of AAVs and build their own amphibious capabilities.

Japanese Soldiers from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade guide an assault amphibious vehicle into the well-deck of the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD-42) for exercise KAMANDAG 3 on Oct. 9, 2019. US Navy Photo

KAMANDAG 3 “will also be the first to include U.S. and Philippine low-altitude air defense training and threat reaction training,” U.S. embassy officials in Manila said in a statement. “Together, these activities represent an increase in military capability and a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region and demonstrate the ability to forward deploy forces in the event of a crisis or natural disaster.”

“Exercises like KAMANDAG 3 strengthen international partnerships and our forces’ abilities to rapidly respond to crises throughout the Indo-Pacific region,” officials added. “The goal of KAMANDAG 3 is to increase counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief capabilities through military exchanges.”

Along with amphibious operations, U.S. forces will join Filipino troops in conducting urban, aviation and counter-terrorism response operations as well as conduct live-fire training during the exercise. Japanese forces will join both U.S. and Filipino units in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, U.S. officials said. The training includes health and medical engagements, civil affairs projects and community events.

Fleet Marine Force Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Robert Soto, from Houston, assigned to Marines, from 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines currently assigned to 3D Marine Division, spray pesticide on uniforms aboard the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD-42) on Oct. 5, 2019. US Marine Corps

During the opening ceremony for the exercise, Maj. Gen. Shinichi Aoki, the ARDB’s commander, said the exercise will provide his forces with the opportunity for “much more integrated training,” according to a 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade news release. Brig. Gen. Ariel Caculitan, the Philippine Marine Corps’ deputy commandant, said the exercise “underscores not only our excellent cooperation but also the higher professional standards and competency most valued by our militaries.”

The military and defense relationship between Japan and the Philippines has been growing in recent years, stemming from a 2015 “strategic partnership” agreement to strengthen the bilateral relationship that includes a key focus maritime security and military cooperation. Those moves are driven by concerns about China’s military build-up and activities in the region, particularly in the South China Sea.

“We remain committed to upholding our defense treaties, reinforcing maritime security efforts and maintaining regional stability,” Maj. Gen. Paul J. Rock, Jr., the 3rd MEB commander, said at the ceremony. “I am confident that we will achieve these objectives throughout this exercise and that together we stand ready to face any challenge.”

https://news.usni.org/2019/10/10/amphibious-ops-air-defense-key-in-philippines-exercise-with-u-s-japanese-forces

Marines chief to step down 5 months ahead of retirement

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 10, 2019): Marines chief to step down 5 months ahead of retirement



Marines chief Maj. Gen. Alvin Parreño. /PHILIPPINE MARINE CORPS PHOTO

Maj. Gen. Alvin Parreño, commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, is set to step down from his post five months ahead of his scheduled retirement.

It remains unclear if he will get a new position or opt for early retirement. He will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 in March 2020.

Naval Inspector General Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Casem will take over his post on Monday, October 14, at a change of command ceremony in Taguig City.

Sources within the Philippine Marines said Parreño’s relationship with his classmate Navy chief Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad has frayed over personal differences. Both are members of the Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986.

The Philippine Marines, which is currently under the control of the Philippine Navy, has long been seeking to be a separate branch in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Talks said that Parreño was offered a position as Vice Commander of the Philippine Navy, but he declined.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1176293/marines-chief-to-step-down-5-months-ahead-of-retirement

NMCB-4 Builds School for Rapid Growing Region in Philippines

From the Seabee Website (Oct 2019): NMCB-4 Builds School for Rapid Growing Region in Philippines

Courtesy Story, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4

MALATGAO, Philippines – Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 celebrated the completion of a two-room schoolhouse alongside the Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team 4, Executive Office of 2 NMCB, Philippine Seabees, Philippine Marines, local government officials, and teachers at Malatgao National High School, Oct. 2.

Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, pose with school staff, Philippine Seabees, and Philippine Marines at the Malatgao National High School ribbon cutting ceremony. NMCB 4 is forward-deployed throughout the Indo-Pacific region ready to support major combat operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and to provide general engineering and civil support to U.S. and joint forces. (Photo by CE2 Ji Han)

Malatgao National High School was founded in June 2016, with four small classrooms to teach 57 students from seventh to tenth grade. Attendance has steadily increased to a current enrollment of 155 students and due to the rapid growth in the student population, the school was in desperate need of additional classroom facilities. To relieve the school’s overcrowding, Construction Detail Palawan was tasked to build a two-room schoolhouse that provided additional facilities needed for a safe learning environment for the students and faculty alike.

Eighteen U.S. Navy Seabees and 12 Filipino Seabees from 2NMCB began working on the new schoolhouse Aug. 1. Since then, the joint US-Philippine Seabee team worked tirelessly to provide a safe and quality classroom environment for the students in Malatgao.

“As a Crew Leader for the first time, I couldn’t be happier with my crew and quality of construction we delivered here in Palawan,” said Builder 2nd Class Miracle Webb. “It is my most sincere hope that we not only gave beyond expectation to the community with our construction skills but with our hearts and as people. I am certainly leaving the beautiful area of Palawan with my heart filled.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the new classrooms was a highly anticipated event for the Seabees and school officials.

“I really appreciate all the efforts these young men and women put into this school, rain or shine,” said Malatgo High School Principal Mely Cabildo. “I am so grateful for this schoolhouse. My students have even been asking me when they can move their desks and chairs into the building. They can right after the ceremony.”

Since their arrival in April, Construction Detail Palawan completed two schoolhouses in the Narra region. The schoolhouses provide needed facilities to ensure a quality learning environment for over 312 high school students. These civic assistance projects help local Filipino communities improve the quality of education and help Seabees further hone their construction and engineering skills.

NMCB 4 is forward deployed throughout Indo-Pacific region ready to support major combat operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to provide general engineering and civil construction support to U.S. and joint operational forces.

https://seabeemagazine.navylive.dodlive.mil/2019/10/10/nmcb-4-builds-school-for-rapid-growing-region-in-philippines/

Rebuilding from Scratch: Rebirth of the Philippine Navy

From the Foreign Policy Research Institute (Oct 10, 2019): Rebuilding from Scratch: Rebirth of the Philippine Navy (By Felix K. Chang)

In many respects, the navy that the Philippines is now building is a new one. By the 1990s, its old navy had fallen into such a state of obsolescence that it had no ships capable of fighting a modern naval battle. Indeed, with the exception of a single World War II-era destroyer escort, the navy had no vessel bigger than a 62-meter offshore patrol boat. But in the coming years, the Philippine navy will for the first time acquire the full spectrum of contemporary anti-air, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare capabilities that it has lacked for so long. Still, it remains to be seen if the Philippine navy will acquire those capabilities in sufficient quantity or quality to present a “credible deterrent” against the Philippines’ various challengers in the South China Sea.

As a vast archipelagic country embroiled in a major maritime dispute, the Philippines could have been expected to have devoted more resources to its navy. But it did not for decades. Some attributed that choice to Manila’s need to combat internal insurgencies; others a hope that the Philippines’ long-standing security treaty with the United States be enough to protect its maritime borders; and still others a gamble that its largest maritime antagonist, the People’s Republic of China, would eventually lose interest in sovereignty disputes and focus on joint economic development.

Philippine Naval Buildup

Xi Jinping’s ascendance to China’s presidency in 2013 settled the last issue. Putting an end to any lingering debate within the Chinese government, he aggressively asserted China’s claims in the South China Sea. Unfortunately for Manila, its American ally was caught in the middle of an under-resourced “pivot” or “rebalancing” to Asia at the time. It would not be until the end of President Barack Obama’s second term before the United States would make a concerted effort to push back against Chinese behavior in the region.

By then it was too little too late for the Philippines. China had enlarged the islets it occupied in the Spratly archipelago and constructed military installations on them. It also seized Philippine-claimed Scarborough Shoal, after a months-long standoff in 2012. All the while, Chinese harassment of Filipino fishermen escalated. In response, then-Philippine President Benigno Aquino III sought to rebuild his country’s external defense forces and cooperate with other Southeast Asian claimants in the region. He also brought (and won) a landmark case against China’s claims in an international court. While his successor, Rodrigo Duterte, has since decided to befriend China and set aside the court’s decision, he has not halted the Philippines’ military buildup, a key beneficiary of which has been the navy.

Now, the Philippines’ new navy has begun to take shape. Within a year, it will field four frigates, one corvette, and two strategic sealift ships. These include two former American Hamilton-class high-endurance coast guard cutters, which have been upgraded and re-classified as frigates, and two new South Korean-built Jose Rizal-class frigates, which will provide the navy with its first dedicated anti-air warfare capability. In August, the Philippine navy commissioned a former South Korean Pohang-class corvette, the navy’s first ship to be equipped with an integrated sonar system. Recently, rumors have started to bubble that South Korea plans to donate two more retired Pohang-class corvettes to the Philippines, which in return will purchase two new-build corvettes.

More ships are expected. Austal, an Australian shipbuilder, has expanded its Philippine shipyard in preparation for orders for new offshore patrol vessels. In 2019, the Philippines issued a tender for two landing ship docks that can accommodate four landing craft and 500 troops. And it will likely order two more frigates from South Korea before 2022. Finally, it has explored the possibility of submarine construction with several international shipbuilders. Philippine Secretary of Defense Delfin Lorenzana even welcomed the possibility of a deal for Russian Kilo-class diesel-electric submarines in 2018.[1] While that made the United States cringe, it was clear that even a China-friendly Philippine government would continue to expand its naval forces. To man all its new ships, the navy expects to boost its ranks by 2,000 to 24,000 by 2020.

Philippine Naval Strategy

So far, the Philippine navy’s acquisitions have hewed closely to what it laid out in its Strategic Sail Plan 2020 and its Philippine Fleet Desired Force Mix proposal in 2012. The documents envisaged a naval force structure comprised of three diesel-electric submarines, six anti-air warfare frigates, 12 anti-submarine warfare corvettes, and four strategic sealift ships by 2027.[2] With such a force, the navy contended, it could create a “credible deterrent.” While that force may be a reasonable match for the navies of most other Southeast Asian countries, it would still be hard pressed to counter China, whose navy includes nine nuclear attack submarines, 59 diesel-electric submarines, an aircraft carrier, 33 destroyers, 53 frigates, and 42 corvettes.

For the moment, local sea denial—preventing an adversary from safely operating in limited areas—is probably the best that the Philippines’ new navy can hope to achieve. And it can only do that if it acquires submarines (and more than three of them). Practically, that is still years away. Without any prior experience with submersibles, the navy will have to acquire the maintenance facilities, rescue equipment, simulators, and skills needed to ensure that it can properly operate a submarine fleet of any strength.

Nevertheless, anything the Philippine navy can do to better protect the Philippines’ offshore natural gas blocks, particularly those near the Malampaya Natural Gas and Power Project, which supplies the country’s main island of Luzon with half of its energy, would be a step forward. Doing so could give energy companies the confidence to explore those blocks and improve the country’s energy security. At the very least, a small, but capable Philippine navy would enable it to pursue a fleet-in-being strategy, in which its nearby presence could make even a larger opponent think twice before it acts. But before the Philippine navy can do that, it will have to arm more of its ships with anti-air and anti-ship missiles and link them to long-range sensors at sea or in the air.

The approach the Philippines has taken stands in contrast to Vietnam’s. Hanoi has also had to rebuild its navy to better safeguard its claims in the South China Sea. But Vietnam’s approach focused on developing sea denial capabilities from the start. After gaining experience with North Korean Yugo-class midget submarines, it ordered six Russian Kilo-class diesel-electric submarines in 2009. The submarines, the last of which was delivered in 2017, were a major investment. Their combined cost was equivalent to about half the size of Vietnam’s entire annual defense budget. But submarines are critical to successful sea denial. And now, Vietnam can maintain the simultaneous deployment of two submarines in the South China Sea. Then, Vietnam rounded out its fleet with the purchase of four Gepard-class frigates and ten Tarantul V-class corvettes from Russia. All are armed with Russian supersonic SS-N-25 anti-ship cruise missiles. And finally, in 2016, Vietnam began to publicize its naval infantry’s island-recapture drills in the Spratly Islands. All of which suggests that Vietnam intends to develop a navy capable of taking the fight to China, if needed.

The Philippines could have taken a similar approach, even with a smaller financial outlay. Capitalizing on its proximity to the South China Sea, it could have deployed mobile land-based anti-ship cruise missile batteries to hold Chinese forces at risk. But those batteries would have had limited utility in situations below the threshold of war. Thus, even though questions remain about the combat effectiveness of the Philippines’ new surface fleet, it will offer Manila a better means with which to handle what have become common maritime incidents in the South China Sea today.

Nautical Miles to Go

No doubt rebuilding a navy is costly. Just the pair of frigates that Manila procured from South Korea cost $337 million. With its economy growing at an annual rate of over six percent since 2010, the Philippines can afford such expenditures. The real test will come when its economic growth dips. Ships are expensive to acquire, maintain, and operate. And the Philippine navy still has a long way to go before it can present a credible deterrent to Chinese maritime activities in the South China Sea.

Moreover, the Philippine navy will need support from the air. Like its naval counterpart, the Philippine air force was starved for decades. In 2005, it retired its last F-5 fighter, leaving it an air force with no jet aircraft. But with Manila’s new investment in external defense, it was able to purchase a dozen South Korean F/A-50 jet fighter-trainers. The new fighters offer the navy some prospect of air cover, particularly important since China can soon operate combat aircraft from several airfields in the South China Sea as well as from two aircraft carriers.

Even so, creating a credible deterrent is not easy. It will take more time and more money. Roughly halfway to building its desired force structure, the Philippine navy is still too small to achieve its strategic aim. Whether the navy becomes truly capable or again stagnates will, in large part, depend on the Philippine Congress to not only support, but also go beyond the ongoing multi-phase naval expansion program.

[1] Jon Grevatt, “Philippine, Russian navies consider submarine agreement,” Jane’s Defense Weekly, Aug. 7, 2018.

[2] “Philippine Navy needs P500B to upgrade war capability,” Philippine Star, May 24, 2012.

[Felix K. Chang is a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. He is also the Chief Strategy Officer of DecisionQ, a predictive analytics company in the national security and healthcare industries.]

https://www.fpri.org/article/2019/10/building-from-scratch-rebirth-of-the-philippine-navy/

AFP-CRS: IP leaders relieved over Salugpungan schools' closure

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): IP leaders relieved over Salugpungan schools' closure



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754056884613018/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Indigenous people want ‘quality education’

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): Indigenous people want ‘quality education’



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754058937946146/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Salugpungan schools' infractions

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): Salugpungan schools' infractions



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754072157944824/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Sison, leftist organizations Gifted hypocrites

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): Sison, leftist organizations Gifted hypocrites



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754082594610447/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Joma, CPP-NPA rebels near extinction

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): Joma, CPP-NPA rebels near extinction

The end is near for Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairman Jose Maria Sison and the New People’s Army (NPA) now that their lies have been exposed before the international community- Lorraine Marie Badoy, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754088057943234/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Philippine, Japan renew defense ties

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): Philippine, Japan renew defense ties

The Japanese government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines further strengthened ties with the recent visit of Minister Yasushi Yamamoto, the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan to the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754092654609441/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: 3 CPP-NPA leaders nabbed in Cagayan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): 3 CPP-NPA leaders nabbed in Cagayan

Joint operation conducted by AFP and PNP resulted in the Violeta Ricardo (“Issa”), Cristina Miguel Garcia (“Senyang”), and Delilah Padilla (Domay Saganay) who have pending arrest warrants for direct assault with murder, frustrated homicide, and other crimes.

#AFPyoucanTRUST | www.afpcrs.com

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754102567941783/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: 17 year old female CPP-NPA member surrenders in Bulacan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Oct 10, 2019): 17 year old female CPP-NPA member surrenders in Bulacan



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2754104951274878/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

Army summit seeks to insulate youth from communist influence

From the Business Mirror (Oct 11, 2019): Army summit seeks to insulate youth from communist influence

Forty-two youth leaders from various provinces in Southern Tagalog completed the two-day Seventh Regional Youth Leadership Summit (RYLS) spearheaded by the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division (ID) in Tanay, Rizal.

The summit sought to transform the youth into “peace builders” and “catalysts for development,” while enhancing their awareness in order to insulate them from the influence of the New People’s Army (NPA) other lawless elements’ deceptions and recruitment.

Maricar Palacol, the Provincial Peace and Order Officer of Laguna, graced the summit and thanked the 2nd ID for “continuously supporting the young generation by instilling the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility.”

Palacol pledged Laguna’s commitment to untiringly support youth programs that will contribute toward peace and development in the province, as well as the entire country.

“The youth plays an integral part in the society. They need to be armored with enthusiasm and courage to become great leaders of our country,” she said.

During the summit, the participants were mentored by resource speakers from different agencies of the government as well as from private sector in line with the objectives of RYLS.

Aside from educating the youth on NPA deceptions, the activity became a venue for the participants to link with the provincial government and get a better grasp understanding on how they can participate in local governance.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the 2nd ID, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of “this noble undertaking because what we are about to do is to insulate our future leaders from the NPA terrorists, as well as other lawless elements and empower them to become the best leaders.”

“We will continue to pursue our genuine desire to empower these young people to be active in every way they can so that they may contribute positively toward attaining our common aspirations of winning the peace which is now within our reach,” Burgos said.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/10/11/army-summit-seeks-to-insulate-youth-from-communist-influence/

Army soldier wounded in Himamaylan encounter

From Panay News (Oct 11, 2019): Army soldier wounded in Himamaylan encounter

A Philippine Army soldier was wounded in an encounter with suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Tan-awan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.

Patrolman John Imedio Javier of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 (RMFB-6) sustained a gunshot wound on his right leg. He received treatment.

Based on the report of the military, troops of the RMFB-6 encountered at least 10 armed men in Sitio Basak, Barangay Tan-awan.

The gunfight with rebels which started around 8:20 p.m. on Oct. 9 lasted for some 15 minutes. The NPAs then withdrew towards northeast direction.

The Army soldiers were in the area as part of the pursuit operation in connection with the recent encounter of troops under 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army and 31st Division Reconnaissance Company, with rebels.

Seized from the site were a rifle grenade, two AK47 magazines, 117 rounds of 7.62-caliber bullets, electrical wires for an improvised explosive device, medical kits, and the rebels’ personal belongings.

The encounter was the third in a week in Negros Occidental following earlier clashes in Manjuyod and Himamaylan City.

https://www.panaynews.net/army-soldier-wounded-in-himamaylan-encounter/

32 LOCAL EXECS SUPPORT NPA? Rebels helped them win in midterm polls – PRO-6

From Panay News (Oct 11, 2019): 32 LOCAL EXECS SUPPORT NPA? Rebels helped them win in midterm polls – PRO-6

Thirty-two elected local officials in Western Visayas enjoyed the support of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the May midterm elections, according to the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6). Are these officials now paying the rebels back with support, too?

The rebels campaigned for them, said PRO-6 spokesperson Police Lieutenant Joem Malong, citing intelligence reports.

Of these 32 officials, 11 were elected mayor and six were elected vice mayor, she added.

In Iloilo province, the rebels supported five mayors, two vice mayors and nine municipal councilors while in Capiz, they campaigned for four mayors, two vice mayors and three town councilors, said Malong.

“We are monitoring them,” she said.

In Negros Occidental, two elected mayors, two vice mayors, two municipal councilors, and a provincial board member enjoyed the backing of the NPA, said Malong.

“We have identified them,” according to the PRO-6 spokesperson but she declined to name them.

During elections, NPA rebels are known to impose “permit to campaign fees” on candidates intending to enter rebel-influenced areas.

Malong acknowledged it would be difficult to prove that these local officials are now paying the insurgents back with monetary or logistical support unless witnesses surface.

“We need physical evidence to pin them down,” said Malong.

Local officials proven to be supportive of rebels face criminal and administrative charges.

“We are warning these local officials to stop supporting rebels,” said Malong.

The figures of the PRO-6 were not far from those of the Philippine Army.

The 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) monitored 37 candidates who financially supported the NPA, according to Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, battalion commander.

Fifteen of these candidates won either as mayors or members of the Sangguniang Bayan in Iloilo and Capiz, said Batara.

In the months leading to the May polls, certain candidates were “consistently monitored to be giving support to the NPA, including some candidates who gave in on the rebels’ ‘permit to win’ and ‘permit to campaign’ (fees),” Batara said.

“If we have gathered enough concrete evidence, appropriate charges would be filed against them,” including for terrorism, Batara said.

Under Republic Act (RA) 10168, terrorism is considered inimical and dangerous to the country’s national security. Terrorism is, thus, condemned, including those who support and finance acts of terrorism.

The same law further criminalizes the financing of terrorism. In particular, it freezes and forfeits the property or funds of those designated terrorists or terrorist organizations. This is done in order to prevent and suppress terrorist activities.

Under Section 4 of RA 10168, persons found guilty of terrorist financing “shall suffer the penalty of reclusion temporal in its maximum period to reclusion perpetua” and be made to pay a fine of not less than P500,000 nor more than P1 million.

Furthermore, Batara said, local government units (LGUs), particularly the local chief executives, should spearhead efforts to end the insurgency problem.

The United States and European Union have labeled the NPA and its political body, the Communist Party of the Philippines, as an international terror organization.

https://www.panaynews.net/32-local-execs-support-npa-rebels-helped-them-win-in-midterm-polls-pro-6/

81 LGUs in C. Luzon cite Reds persona non grata

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 10, 2019): 81 LGUs in C. Luzon cite Reds persona non grata



RED SUPPORT A group of students stages a lightning protest in Manila to show support for the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army during the latter’s founding anniversary in March. —EDWIN BACASMAS

Local government units (LGUs) in 81 of 130 towns and cities in Central Luzon have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, New People’s Army (NPA), persona non grata (unwanted persons) in separate resolutions.

Police Brig. Gen. Joel Napoleon Coronel, Central Luzon police director, reported this as mayors, governors and village officials and members of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict met with presidential adviser on the peace process, retired Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., in Bulacan province on Wednesday.

At least 178 of 3,102 villages in the region’s seven provinces have also been mobilized to help in the peace campaign of President Duterte through Executive Order No. 70, Coronel said in a report.

Mr. Duterte declared the CPP and NPA as terrorist groups in 2017.

Coronel, however, did not disclose the towns, cities and villages participating in the campaign.

The military’s Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) said 19 towns and 48 villages in northern Luzon, and the provinces of Nueva Ecija and Bulacan had given unwanted status to the CPP and NPA between March and May this year.

In Cagayan province, the military and the police’s Task Force Tala reported the arrest on Tuesday of three women suspected to be high-ranking leaders of the CPP-NPA.

In a statement, Lt. Gen. Ramiro Manuel Rey, the Nolcom commander, described the local communist movement as “discredited and irrelevant,” noting that fighting this was “everybody’s concern.”

Rebel returnees

The Armed Forces chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, visited the military’s Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) headquarters at Camp Nakar in Lucena City on Thursday morning and met with military officers to discuss security concerns in the region.

Lt. Col. Dennis Cana, the Solcom spokesperson, said records from the Armed Forces of the Philippines showed that 114 NPA rebels had been killed in clashes with government troops around the country this year.

In a statement, the AFP said it was supporting the “Joint Task Force Balik-Loob,” led by the Department of National Defense, to ensure that rebel returnees were given the chance and opportunity to return to mainstream society, and avail of benefits from the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

Rebel returnees receive livelihood, medical, educational, housing and legal assistance from the government through E-Clip.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1176316/81-lgus-in-c-luzon-cite-reds-persona-non-grata

Exercise Kamandag 3 Begins

Posted to Marines, the Official Website of the US Marine Corps (Oct 10, 2019): Exercise Kamandag 3 Begins 

SUBIC BAY, Philippines -- The 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and the Philippine Marine Ready Force opened Exercise KAMANDAG 3 on Wednesday, October 9th with a ceremony at the Subic Bay International Airport. KAMANDAG 3 will take place from October 9 to 18, 2019, at multiple locations on the Philippine islands of Luzon and Palawan.

KAMANDAG 3 is a bilateral exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States, which also features participation from Japan. The Philippine-led exercise will include military-to-military exchanges between Philippine, Japanese, and American forces, with a focus on improving counterterrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities.

Philippine and U.S. service members will conduct training in amphibious operations, live fire drills, military operations in urban terrain, reconnaissance, low altitude air defense, aviation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, combat lifesaving, and other areas during KAMANDAG 3. The training will enhance cooperation and interoperability between Philippine, Japanese and U.S. forces, as the countries continue to reinforce their commitment to support each other as friends, partners, and allies.

“The exercise is a meaningful indicator of the solidarity that exists between allies. The KAMANDAG training underscores not only our excellent cooperation, but also the higher professional standards and competency most valued by our militaries.” Brig. Gen. Ariel R. Caculitan, deputy commandant, Philippine Marine Corps

The Japan Self-Defense Force’s participation in the exercise will focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training scenarios. The Philippines, Japan and U.S. will also partner for a variety of community relations events, including teaching hundreds of local civilians about lifesaving skills, disease prevention and personal wellness. Bringing military service members and local populations together for exercises like KAMANDAG 3 develops lifelong friendships and connections that strengthen the partnership between the three countries.

“I would like to embrace this treasured opportunity to have KAMANDAG 3 in this beautiful country,” said Maj. Gen. Shinichi Aoki, commanding general, Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade. “The training items will be much more integrated and also have many more participants, which shows it is a growing exercise.”

KAMANDAG is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma Ng Dagat,” which translates to “Cooperation of Warriors of the Sea,” highlighting the strong partnership between the Philippine and U.S. militaries. KAMANDAG 3 will increase overall Philippine and U.S. readiness, improve combined responsiveness to crises in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthen both countries’ decades-long partnership.

“On behalf of the United States, we remain committed to upholding our defense treaties, reinforcing maritime security efforts, and maintaining regional stability,” said Maj. Gen Paul. J. Rock Jr., commanding general, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. “I am confident that we will achieve these objectives throughout this exercise, and that together, we stand ready to face any challenge.”

https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/1985828/exercise-kamandag-3-begins

Kalinaw News: Army empowers Southern Tagalog’s future leaders

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 10, 2019): Army empowers Southern Tagalog’s future leaders

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Forty two youth leaders completed the 2-day 7th Regional Youth Leadership Summit (RYLS) conducted by the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division here last October 5.

The participants are composed of 24 females and 18 males ages 15 to 25 years old coming from the different provinces of Southern Tagalog.

The summit seeks to transform the youth into “peace builders” and “catalysts for development” while enhancing their awareness in order to insulate them from NPA and other lawless elements’ deceptions and recruitment.

Ms Maricar A Palacol, the Provincial Peace and Order Officer of Laguna Province, graced the Opening Ceremony of the RYLS and lauded the Jungle Fighters for “continously supporting the young generation by instilling the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility.”

Ms Palacol categorically stated the Local Government of Laguna’s pledge and commitment to untiringly support youth programs that will contribute toward peace and development of the province as well as the entire country.

She emphasized that “the youth plays an integral part in the society. They need to be armored with enthusiasm and courage to become great leaders of our country.”

During their stay at the home of the Jungle Fighters, the participants were mentored by prominent resource speakers from different agencies of the Local Government as well as from private sector in line with the objectives of RYLS.

In her talk, Ms Relissa S Lucena of the group #HandsOffOurChildren, shared the awful experiences of mothers whose sons and daughters were recruited by the NPAs.

“Theirs was a heartbreaking story which no parent ever deserve”, said one of the participants.

Aside from educating the youth against NPA deceptions, the activity became a venue for the future leaders to develop a link with the provincial government and have a better understanding in how they can participate in governance upon their return to their respective localities.

The participants were also inspired by Al Jazeera Correspondent Jamela Alindogan after she shared her experiences as well as the determined steps which she took to overcome life’s challenges.

She called on the youth participants to “go outside of yourself, do something for our country” as she reminded them to be good in their quest to serve because “nothing is worth more than dignity.”

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr, Commander of 2ID, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of “this noble undertaking because what we are about to do is to insulate our future leaders from the NPA terrorists as well as other lawless elements and empower them to become the best leaders which our beloved motherland and countrymen truly deserve.”

He added that 2ID will continue to spearhead awareness to educate the people in order to “build the youth for our country’s future.”

“We will continue to pursue our genuine desire to empower these young people to be active in every way they can so that they may contribute positively towards attaining our common aspirations of winning the peace which is now within our reach”, ended BGen Burgos Jr.

The participants were grateful to the facilitators and organizers “for the once in a lifetime experience and for fanning the embers of idealism and patriotism in our hearts.”

Some youth leaders were quoted as saying “we are Filipinos and we will give our all for the Filipinos.”

“The local government unit of the municipality Tuburan, headed by Mayor Khaledyassin Papandayan, played a great role in the surrender of firearms”, said Lt. Col. Ian Noel Ignes who is the commander of the 55th Infantry Battalion which maintains operational responsibility in the said municipality.

“Mayor Papandayan painstakingly negotiated with the families with the assistance of village elders, traditional leaders, imams, and ulamas to bring about a resolution to the conflict and to bring peace to their municipality”, added Ignes.

The assorted firearms surrndered consisted of one M14 and two M1 Garand rifles, one shotgun, eleven handguns, and five grenade launchers.

According to Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, acting Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, who has operational jurisdiction of Lanao del Sur, “Todays accomplishments were attributed to the peace-loving local chief executives, constituents and stakeholders of Lanao del Sur”.

“We will continuously collaborate with them to encourage other warring clans to settle their disputes and surrender their loose firearms to make their communities peaceful and secured”, added Cuerpo.

As of yesterday, four local terrorist group, including one minor, and five of their supporters surrendered and yielded firearms to two of the battalions of the 103rd Infantry Brigade.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the troops and the local chief executives for the successful surrender of loose firearms.

“Your 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, in collaboration with the LGUs and other stakeholders, remains steadfast in its commitment to attain just and lasting peace in our area of operation thru our campaign against loose firearms,” said Ancan.

Division Public Affairs Office 2nd Infantry Division Philippine Army
CPT JAYROLD TERNIO
Chief, DPAO, 2ID, PA
Camp General Mateo Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal
09175047068

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-empowers-southern-tagalogs-future-leaders/

Kalinaw News: Fleeing BIFF member killed in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 10, 2019): Fleeing BIFF member killed in Maguindanao

CAMP SIONGCO, MAGUINDANAO – A member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) was killed in a military operation in Maguindanao, early morning of Saturday, October 5, 2019.

The BIFF member Kaliga Usman Kamsa was killed at around 6:15 a.m. in Upper Siling, Paglat, Maguindanao.

The deliberate operation was conducted by 40th Infantry Battalion under 2nd Lieutenant Estur to apprehend Kamsa but he escaped through his motorcycle. Nearby military patrol bases were immediately alerted that the target is riding his motorcycle. Kamsa figured in a shootout while trying to outrun the troops from Manlangit CAA Patrol Base.

The incident resulted to the death of Kamsa and recovered from his possession were two fragmentation hand grenades.

The troops coordinated to Pandag PNP for the turn-over of the remains of Kamsa and the recovered items for proper disposition.

Maj. Gen. Carreon lauded the troops for the successful operation.”I am encouraging the remaining combatants to surrender so they can take advantage of the government’s livelihood programs which are always available”, said Maj. Gen. Carreon. 

 

Division Public Affairs Office 6th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Maj Arvin G Encinas
Chief, Public Affairs Office, 6ID, PA
Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao
+6391775226469

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/fleeing-biff-member-killed-in-maguindanao/

Kalinaw News: Government troops seized illegal drugs, firearms in drug raid

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 10, 2019): Government troops seized illegal drugs, firearms in drug raid

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Firearms and suspected ‘shabu’ were seized in a joint operation by government forces in Rajah Buayan on Friday, October 4, 2019.

The combined government forces of 33rd Infantry Battalion and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted the operation against the drug suspects, Welly Akil Utto and his cohorts.

At around 11:45 a.m., the operating troops served search warrant for the violation of RA 9516 known as the Illegal Possession of explosive, RA 10591 known as Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition, and RA 9165 known as Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002 at Brgy. Panadtaban, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao.

Confiscated from the operation were 2 cal. 45 pistols, 2 Baofeng, 8 cellular phones, assorted ammunition, suspected shabu with an estimated value of P500.00, and illegal drug paraphernalia.

Lt. Col. Elmer M. Boongaling, Commander of 33rd IB, said that the suspects managed to escape when they saw the arresting troops approaching towards their location.

“I commend our government troops for their fast action and I assure you that 6th ID will continue to support the Law Enforcement Operations on government campaigns against Illegal drugs and other forms of criminalities,” said Maj. Gen. Diosdado C. Carreon.”I am urging our civilian counterparts to be vigilant at all times and report immediately any suspicious acts or persons to the authority,” Maj. Gen. Carreon added.

Division Public Affairs Office 6th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Maj Arvin G Encinas
Chief, Public Affairs Office, 6ID, PA
Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao
+6391775226469

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/government-troops-seized-illegal-drugs-firearms-in-drug-raid/

Kalinaw News: Joint government forces arrest high ranking NPA official in Caraga

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 10, 2019): Joint government forces arrest high ranking NPA official in Caraga

Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Butuan City —— A high ranking official of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) was arrested in a joint police and military operation in Butuan City around 12:30 this afternoon.

Brigadier General Joselito T Esquivel, Jr Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Director, disclosed that Virgilio Torralba Lincuna, 68 years old, married, and resident of Purok 3, Barangay Banza, Butuan City was arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest in Unyon ng mga Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Norte (UMAN) Office, Purok-3A Barangay Tiniwisan, this city.

Virgilio Lincuna is the Secretary of Regional Urban Committee (RUC), Regional White Area Committee (RWAC), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) at the same time Chairman of Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) that spearheaded mass actions in Butuan City.

Lincuna has three standing Warrants of Arrest, all for the crime of Attempted Murder: (a) Criminal Case Number 18-3350 dated January 31, 2019 with Php100,000.00 bail bond recommended; (b) Criminal Case Number 19-3550 with Php100,000.00 bail bond recommended; and (c) Criminal Case 19-3551 with Php100,000.00 bail bond recommended, all issued by Honorable Judge Lilibeth O Ladaga of Regional Trial Court Branch 28, Lianga, Surigao del Sur dated May 14, 2019.

After almost a month of information gathering and surveillance, the operation was conducted by the joint personnel of Butuan City Mobile Force Company,Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) Intelligence Branch, Butuan City Police Station 4 and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 13, together with 402nd Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

“This notable accomplishment is attributed to the good relationship between the PNP and AFP in the region that resulted in information sharing and collaborative efforts between the government forces,” said PBGEN Esquivel Jr.

“The active support of the community also plays a significant role in this success. I encourage the community to continue giving your support to our government forces who always ensure the safety and security of the Caraganons,” he added.

Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/joint-government-forces-arrest-high-ranking-npa-official-in-caraga/

SOLCOM: Statement from the Father of Alexandrea

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 9, 2019): Statement from the Father of Alexandrea

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/photos/a.1503968379863230/2372368166356576/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/SouthernLuzonCommandAFP/

CPP/NPA-West Camarines Sur: BUKAS NA LIHAM: Panawagan sa lahat na barangay opisyal sa Probinsya ng Camarines Sur

NPA-West Camarines Sur statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 10, 2019): BUKAS NA LIHAM: Panawagan sa lahat na barangay opisyal sa Probinsya ng Camarines Sur

KA MICHAEL ROBREDO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-WEST CAMARINES SUR

NORBEN GRUTA COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 10, 2019

Sa lahat na mga barangay opisyal magkaisa at magtulungan para bigyang proteksyon ang mamamayan sa mga ginagawang paglabag sa karapatang-pantao sa pinaigting na pasismo ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa mamamayan para supilin at pahupain ang mamamayan na naghahangad ng tunay na demokrasya, katarungan, kapayapaan at kaunlaran para sa kanilang buhay.

Ang kampanya ng AFP at PNP sa inyong lugar lalo sa mga interior na bahagi para sa kanilang programang PDT (peace and development) sa ilalim ng Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), sa balangkas ng Task Force Katoninongan asin Kauswagan na kampanya sa buong Kabikolan, layunin ng kampanya na wakasan ang insurhensya sa lugar sa pamamagitan ng paghahatid ng mga batayang serbisyo katulong ang iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno. Sa katunayan ay matagal na itong ipinangako subalit hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay mahirap para sa kanila na tuparin ang ganitong mga programang magbibigay ng kaunlaran at kapayapaan sa ating lugar dahil labag sa kanilang kalooban na ibigay sa lahat ng mahihirap ang biyayang hindi sila ang unang makikinabang. Kaya hindi ito ang solusyon para sa komprehensibong pagresolba sa kahirapan lalo na ang problema ng mga magsasaka. Bagkus ay magreresulta lang ang kanilang kampanya ng pagkaalarma, takot at pagkakawatak-watak ng ating mga taumbaryo dahil sa mga ginagawa nilang pananakot, panghaharas, at sapilitang pagpapasurender sa mga pinagsususpetsahan nilang nagsusuporta sa kilusan para makuha nila ang nakalaan na pondo para sa mga surrendere. Ang nakikinabang para sa mga pondong nakalaan ng gobyerno ay ang mga matataas na opisyal ng AFP. Matagal na rin nila itong ginagawa mula pa sa mga nagdaang rehimen subalit wala itong magandang naidulot sa ating mamamayan dahil ang kanilang ginagawa ay para sa kanilang interes.

Sa lahat na mga Bikolano huwag kayo matakot na manindigan at ipaglaban ang inyong karapatan na ipagtanggol ang inyong mga kabarangay, laban sa anumang mga pang-aabuso na ginagawa ng mga militar sa ating mga lugar na nasasakupan. Tulad ng pagbabase sa sentrong baryo gamit ang mga pampublikong pasilidad (simbahan, barangay hall, day care center, outpost, pagbase sa kabahayan ng masa at iba pa), sapilitang pagkuha ng litrato sa mga tao na kinakausap para palabasin na mga surrender, pagpapasabong na sila mismo ang nangunguna kahit ayaw pumayag ang mga barangay opisyal, pagpapatupad ng curfew at sapilitang pagpapabantay sa mga barangay tanod para sa kanilang seguridad.

Ipaglaban ang karapatang pantao!

Tutulan at labanan ang pang-aabuso ng AFP/PNP!

Tutulan ang task force katuninongan at kauswagan!

Ilantad ang pekeng pagpapasurender!

Isulong ang pagkakaisa ng lahat na taumbaryong biktima ng pang-aabuso at karahasan!

Mabuhay ang rebolusyon!

Michael Robredo
Tagapagsalita

NGC-BHB West Camarines Sur

https://cpp.ph/statement/bukas-na-liham-panawagan-sa-lahat-na-barangay-opisyal-sa-probinsya-ng-camarines-sur/

Cops say top Mindanao Red, 3 others arrested at checkpoint

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 10, 2019): Cops say top Mindanao Red, 3 others arrested at checkpoint

KORONADAL CITY—Authorities here announced the arrest of what they said was a regional communist rebel leader and three companions at a checkpoint on Thursday, Oct. 10, in the town of Maitum, Sarangani province.

Arrested were Nicanor Claro Pason, also known as RonRon or Costan, secretary of Guerrilla Front (GF) 73 of the communist New Peoples Army (NPA) operating in the Soccsksargen region; Bernard Langorin Presbetero, alias “Aldrin/Patong,” 47, a resident of Polomolok, South Cotabato; Josephine Carvajal Sumagaysay, 53, and Reynaldo Beringil Loyola, 47, both residents of Purok 5, Barangay Zion in Maitum.

Brig. Gen. Alfred S. Corpus, Region 12 police director, said Pason has seven warrants of arrest for murder, frustrated murder, rebellion, arson, kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

He said Pason is one of the senior leaders of GF 73 operating in the area of Barangay San Jose, General Santos City, and the municipalities of Banga, Tupi, Polomolok, Lake Sebu and T’boli in South Cotabato, and in Kiamba, Sarangani.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Jones Otida, commanding officer of Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, identified Presbetero as the spokesperson of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Regional Committee.

Corpus said that Pason and his group was behind the 2016 burning of a Yellow Bus Lines (YBL) and a public utility van plying the General Santos—Maitum route.

They were also believed to be behind the burning of construction equipment in Barangay San Jose, General Santos City in the same year, Corpus said.

Seized from the suspects were two hand grenades, five blasting caps, a cellular phone, a mobile Wi-Fi gadget, and a back pack.

Corpus said Pason and his group were intercepted at a checkpoint at Barangay Kalaong, Maitum.

The arrested suspects were aboard a motorcycle when they were flagged down at the checkpoint. As police were about to inspect the motorcycle, Loyola, who was driving, tried to escape while Pason pulled out a grenade, prompting police to open fire.

Pason was hit in the right thigh and rushed to Maitum Emergency Hospital. The other suspects and seized items were brought to the town’s police station.

A tipster helped police in the arrest, according to Corpus.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1176352/cops-say-top-mindanao-red-3-others-arrested-at-checkpoint

5 admirals shortlisted for top Philippine Coast Guard post

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 10, 2019): 5 admirals shortlisted for top Philippine Coast Guard post

Five admirals have been shortlisted to replace Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Vice Adm. Elson Hermogino.

The candidates are:

-Vice Adm. Joel Garcia – Deputy Commandant for operations and Director of National Coast Watch (graduate of Philippine Merchant Academy)

-Rear Adm. Leopoldo Larroya – Deputy Commandant for operations (Philippine Military Academy Class of 1988)

-Rear Adm. Jorge Ursabia – Commander of Marine Environmental Protection Command (PMA Class of 1987)

-Rear Adm. Lyndon La Torre – Commander of Internal Affairs Service (PMA Class of 1987)

-Rear Adm. Joselito dela Cruz – Commander of Maritime Security Command (PMA Class of 1988)

PCG spokesperson Capt. Arman Balilo said the list of candidates has been forwarded to Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade.

He will endorse the list to President Rodrigo Duterte.

Hermogino, a member of PMA “Sandiwa” Class of 1985, will reach the retirement age of 56 on Oct. 22.

He has served 38 years in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the PCG. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1175958/5-admirals-shortlisted-for-top-philippine-coast-guard-post

Change of command expected soon at Philippine Marine Corps

From CNN Philippines (Oct 10, 2019): Change of command expected soon at Philippine Marine Corps



Major General Alvin Parreño is stepping down as Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, highly-placed sources told CNN Philippines.

Naval Inspector General Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Casem is poised to take the post during the formal ceremony on the leadership change set on October 14.

Several sources in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Parreño and his boss, Navy Flag-Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Roberto Empedrad, have long-standing differences. This allegedly led Empedrad to recommend the replacement of Parreño.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed to CNN Philippines that he was aware of the Navy chief’s plans.

"I didn't know he [did] it already. He informed me of his intention last month and the reason why," he said in a message, but did not elaborate.

The sources also said Parreño was recently offered the position of Navy Vice-Commander, but he declined. The position would place him directly under Empedrad.

AFP chief Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, however, said Parreño has already considered going on early retirement. The Marine commandant is scheduled to retire in March 2020.

“He is planning to go on early retirement. Whatever is his personal reason kung bakit (why), I'm not aware,” Clement told reporters during the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines forum on Thursday.

Clement added authorities have yet to confirm if the Marine commandant’s retirement has been approved.

CNN Philippines has reached out to both Parreño and Empedrad, but they have yet to respond to interview requests.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/10/10/Commandant-of-the-Philippine-Marine-Corps-Alvin-Parre%C3%B1o-resignation.html

Philippine Officials Consider Extending Martial Law in Mindanao

Posted to the Voice of America (Oct 9, 2019): Philippine Officials Consider Extending Martial Law in Mindanao

A policeman takes a picture of activists as they march to mark the second year of martial law in Mindanao, during a rally near the Malacanang palace in Manila, Philippines on Friday, May 24, 2019.

The Philippine government imposed martial law on its giant southern island of Mindanao in early 2017 to help fight a war against Muslim rebels who had seized the center of the lakeside university town Marawi. Two years after the war ended, martial law remains and officials are talking about an extension into 2020.

Martial law is not new to the Philippines. Former President Ferdinand Marco ruled as dictator under martial law from 1972 until 1981.

But this time some people in Mindanao are pushing back. Martial law, they argue, keeps the island safer. But it may also keep business away.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said in July he would consider extending martial law into 2020 if local officials want it, domestic media outlet Philstar.com reported. He said the island and outlying seas were still at risk.

“Ideally, it is obviously good to see Mindanao freed from security challenges by the end of 2019 and therefore martial law may not be expected to be implemented anymore,” said Henelito Sevilla, assistant international relations professor at University of the Philippines.

“However, Mindanao is Mindanao, and the region should not be compared to other parts of the Philippines where security challenges are less diverse in terms of nature, area and extent as compared to Mindanao islands,” Sevilla said. “The islands of Mindanao are very diverse in terms of tribal affinity, political cleavages and even armed groupings.”

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. had said in mid-2019 via Philippine media that he would propose another year of martial law.

Violent elements remain

Troops declared victory against the Muslim rebels in Marawi in October 2017 after fighting killed more than 1,100. In early 2019, Marawi and surrounding areas formally became the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It was to be administered at least in part by a rebel group that had signed a peace deal with the government in 2014.

However, an armed splinter of that group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, occasionally stages deadly ambushes including an August attack that killed three military informants. Abu Sayyaf, a separate rebel group known for kidnapping and slaying foreign tourists, remains intact on islands off Mindanao’s west coast. The armed communist New People’s Army has its own camps in Mindanao.

Muslim rebels believe the Philippine Catholic majority controls an unfair share of resources in Mindanao despite five centuries of Muslim settlement. Violence there has killed about 120,000 people in Mindanao and adjacent Sulu Sea since the 1960s.

Light impact

Martial law lets troops and police work together without normal legal checks and balances. Authorities can also enforce curfews and randomly search vehicles.

But in much of Mindanao, martial law is hardly noticeable. Around the port city Cagayan de Oro, for example, cars stop only between the domestic airport and downtown for routine checks. Police do not enforce curfews in the downtown mega-malls, upscale restaurants and major high-rise hotel.

Road checkpoints turn up more often on highways around the Bangsamoro region, home to some 3.8 million mostly Muslim Filipinos.

In Davao, the Philippine archipelago’s second largest city after Manila, people broadly support the extension of martial law, said a scholar who just visited. Davao is on Mindanao’s east coast, removed from most rebel attacks.

“I asked people, they like the army because they feel considerably safe, and it’s actually not hindering the daily life of the people,” said the visitor Enrico Cau, Southeast Asia-specialized associate researcher at the Taiwan Strategy Research Association.

“Just the idea that martial law hinders investment, deters people from going, stops tourists -- even not so much,” he said. “Because when I got to Davao on August 17 and when I left in September, for example, hotels didn’t have one single room.”

Is Mindanao safe enough already?

Davao’s mayor and city council expressed formal opposition to continued martial law after ambassadors visited the city in mid-2019 and said the law raises costs of doing business, domestic media say. Much of Mindanao’s 25 million population lives in poverty, largely for lack of investment.

Protest from the mayor may roll back martial law next year to cover only parts of Mindanao where rebels are likely to strike, Cau said. The mayor is also Duterte’s daughter.

Renato Reyes, secretary general of the Manila-based Bagong Alyansang Makabaya alliance of leftist causes, said

Philippine officials should drop martial law to focus instead on a peace process that address poverty and inequality in Mindanao.

The government should use martial law to “expedite the development of new growth centers” in Mindanao to meet economic needs, said Aaron Rabena, a research fellow at Asia-Pacific Pathways to Progress Foundation, a Manila research organization.

“We cannot live in a world where martial law is the norm,” Reyes said. “It should always be the last resort for government. When all civilian agencies or institutions are unable to discharge their functions, that’s when the military will come in.” 

https://www.voanews.com/east-asia-pacific/philippine-officials-consider-extending-martial-law-mindanao

Sandiganbayan affirms decision on ex-AFP comptroller’s civil forfeiture case

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 9, 2019): Sandiganbayan affirms decision on ex-AFP comptroller’s civil forfeiture case

The Sandiganbayan Second Division has denied the motion for reconsideration filed by former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) comptroller Lt. General Jacinto C. Ligot and his family regarding the continuation of their civil forfeiture case.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor filed on May 27, 2013 a petition seeking to forfeit the unlawfully acquired properties of Ligot, his wife Erlinda Ligot, his children Paulo Ligot and Riza Ligot, brother-in-law Edgardo Yambao, and his wife’s cousin Gilda Alfonso-Velasquez aggregately valued at P55,596,694.26.

The amount is based on the bank deposits and investment accounts in the name of the respondents allegedly acquired during Ligot’s tenure as a commissioned officer of the AFP.

Ligot and the other respondents filed a joint demurrer to evidence on March 12 and sought the dismissal of the civil forfeiture case, arguing that Jacinto’s salary prior to retirement is not out of proportion to his income as a public officer.

The respondents likewise said the prosecution violated the laws on secrecy of bank deposits, especially since the disclosure of their foreign currency deposits are prohibited without their written consent.

Their joint demurrer was denied by the anti-graft court on July 8 after it was found that there is prima facie sufficient evidence for forfeiture.

The respondents thereafter filed motions for reconsideration and argued that the petitioner’s evidence consists of documents that are not properly authenticated and identified, so is therefore inadmissible as evidence.

They added that there is insufficient evidence to prove that the bank deposits and investment accounts belong to Jacinto, and there is also no evidence that would prove that his salary as a public officer is manifestly out of proportion to his bank accounts.

However, the anti-graft court said that their arguments are nothing but a mere rehash of their joint demurrer to evidence, so it “still does not find any cogent reason to overturn its earlier pronouncement,” the resolution stated.

The respondents said that Jacinto’s salary prior to retirement was P3,248,003, while his bank deposits and investments amounted to P550,000 and P700,000, respectively. They further stressed that there is no evidence that the deposits made by his family to their bank accounts came from Jacinto. But for the court, this reasoning does not stand.

“Although the substantial accounts are not under Jacinto’s name, the Court may inquire into the accounts of all the respondents in this case considering that it was proven that the latter do not have the financial capacity to own the subject accounts,” the resolution added.

The Sandiganbayan recommended that Jacinto and his family raise their arguments during the course of trial on the presentation of their evidence.

The 11-page resolution was written by Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngit with the concurrence of Chairperson Oscar Herrera Jr. and Associate Justice Lorifel Pahimna.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/10/09/sandiganbayan-affirms-decision-on-ex-afp-comptrollers-civil-forfeiture-case/

Austal unveils proposal for Philippine OPV programme

Posted to Jane's 360 (Oct 8, 2019): Pacific 2019: Austal unveils proposal for Philippine OPV programme

Austal’s proposal for the Philippine Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessel Acquisition Project on display at Pacific 2019. Source: IHS Markit/Ridzwan Rahmat

Key Points

• Austal has provided more details of its proposal for the Philippine Navy's offshore patrol vessel procurement programme
• The company is hopeful that the programme will be exempted from a ban on aid from countries that supported an inquiry into President Duterte's war on drugs

Australian shipbuilder Austal has unveiled its proposal for the Philippine Navy's Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Acquisition Project.

A model of this proposal is being showcased at the Pacific 2019 International Maritime Exposition, which runs from 8 to 10 October in Sydney, Australia.

The OPV Acquisition Project is one of the programmes that have been identified as a priority under Horizon 2 of the Philippine Navy's component in the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme (RAFPMP).

The country has a requirement for an initial batch of six ships, and an acquisition sum of PHP30 billion (USD577 million) was approved by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in June 2018.

Negotiations for a government-to-government contract are in progress, with Canberra looking at the possibility of funding the procurement via Export Finance Australia, said an Austal representative who spoke to Jane's at Pacific 2019.

According to information provided by Austal, its proposal, which derives its design from the Cape-class patrol vessel, has an overall length of 83.4 m, an overall moulded beam of 13.3 m, and a hull draft of 4 m. To augment its interdiction capabilities, the OPV can embark up to two 7 m rigid-hull inflatable boats via davits located on the port and starboard sides.

Powered by two Caterpillar C280-16 engines driving two fixed-pitch propellers via two Reintjes LAF 5465 SISO gearboxes, the OPV can reach a top speed of 22 kt at 85% of maximum continuous rating (MCR) and attain ranges in excess of 3,500 n miles at 12 kt.

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https://www.janes.com/article/91753/pacific-2019-austal-unveils-proposal-for-philippine-opv-programme