LOOK | House BBL panel lists provisions that 'must go'

From InterAksyon (Apr 10): LOOK | House BBL panel lists provisions that 'must go'


 

A list of nine provisions the chairman of the House of Representatives panel reviewing the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law said “must be removed or deleted” if the measure is to stand a chance of passage was made public Friday by a member of the chamber.

Pangasinan Representative Kimi Cojuangco released the list of provisions, which she said she sourced from the ad hoc committee’s secretariat, in a post on her Twitter account Friday.

In her post, Cojuangco, who is critical of the BBL, said: "Unconstitutional provisions of the BBL. These will be amended so BBL can be signed into law. If unacceptable, then game over."

Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez, who chairs the 75-member ad hoc committee on the BBL, said eight of the provisions are “unconstitutional” and the ninth is “unacceptable to the members (of the House of Representatives) from Mindanao.”

Following the January 25 Mamasapano incident, Congress suspended deliberations on the BBL, which would create a new autonomous Bangsamoro homeland as part of the peace agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, with some lawmakers saying they would oppose its passage.

However, President Benigno Aquino III has repeatedly called on Congress to speed up the measure’s passage, saying it would ensure lasting peace in Mindanao after decades of conflict. The MILF, on the other hand, has insisted that a watered down version of the BBL would not be acceptable.

Congress has said it might pass the BBL by July, although some lawmakers have cautioned that there is no guarantee the deadline would be met.

Rodriguez said five of the provisions he wants removed would “will interfere with the functions and operations of independent constitutional commissions,” such as the Commission on Elections and Commission on Audit.

The ninth provision, on the other hand, would allow a plebiscite in any territory contiguous to the proposed Bangsamoro region where 10 percent of the population seeks inclusion in the new entity, which Rodriguez said would “allow a creeping expansion of the Bangsamoro region.”

The ad hoc committee will meet at the end of the month to continue its deliberations and hopes to bring the proposed BBL to plenary when Congress resumes session on May 4.....

 

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/108559/look--house-bbl-panel-lists-provisions-that-must-go

Mischief Reef land reclamation to restrict PH access to Ayungin, Recto Bank

From InterAksyon (Apr 10): Mischief Reef land reclamation to restrict PH access to Ayungin, Recto Bank



China’s land reclamation activities at Panganiban Reef, internationally known as Mischief Reef, could be its first step in gradually restricting the Philippines’ access to Ayungin Shoal and the Recto Bank in the West Philippine Sea.

But for one analyst, the bigger objective of China is to put in place a “strategic triangle” in the South China Sea which are anchored on three areas: the Paracel Islands, Fiery Cross Reef and Scarborough Shoal.



“If China succeeds, they would control the South China Sea and devour most of the West Philippine Sea,” asserted former congressman and naval officer Roilo Golez. This, he stressed, is a “simple, plain classic power play devoid of any basis in international law.”

The Washington DC-based Center for Strategic and International Studies showed the presence of several dredgers and cargo ships at Mischief Reef, engaged in massive reclamation activities. A satellite image, dated March 16, 2015, showed the creation of small artificial islands which had fortified seawalls. Another image showed the present of a transport ship that can carry up to 800 soldiers and 20 armed amphibious vehicles.



The Mischief Reef land reclamation is the latest activity carried out by Beijing within the Philippine zone of the disputed Spratly Islands. Several aerial surveillance photos taken earlier this year showed the massiveness and advanced nature of the reclamation. The activities have increased China’s footprint in the disputed areas and allow it to position its forces to project its influence and control over the area.

The Mischief Reef land reclamation is of serious concern to the Philippines because of its proximity to Ayungin Shoal and Recto Bank. The Philippines maintains a small military garrison at Ayungin (internationally known as Second Thomans Shoal) composed of Philippine Marines, who are using the BRP Sierra Madre as their base.



Recto Bank, on the other hand, is believed to have large oil, gas and mineral deposits.

Mischief Reef is about 50 kilometers away from Ayungin Shoal and is around 400 kilometers away from Palawan. In 2013, a confidential military report warned of increased Chinese naval activity in Ayungin Shoal with the objective of forcing the Philippines to abandon the BRP Sierra Madre.



Earlier this year, Chinese ships tried to block anew Philippine ships from resupplying the Marines on the BRP Sierra Madre. In May last year, resupply ships were caught in a tension-filled "cat-and-mouse" chase with Chinese ships as they tried to approach the Sierra Madre.

Threat to national security - DND spokesman

Defense Department spokesman Dr. Peter Galvez concedes that if a Chinese facility at Mischief Reef becomes operational, it can affect Philippine operations in Ayungin.



“It is of grave concern and a great threat to our national security,” Galvez said, warning Beijing’s continued land reclamation activities – if not stopped – will have serious implications for the whole Asia-Pacific region.

 “If not immediately stopped and dismantled, it will cause a major shift in regional peace and security. It will have an impact on multiple dimensions of national security today and in the long term,” Galvez added.



Former Congressman Roilo Golez, who has been following developments in the South China Sea dispute, believes China also aims to control Recto Bank. Recto Bank, internationall known as Reed Bank, is located 80 nautical miles west of Palawan and is estimated to hold 5 billion barrels of oil as well as 55 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.



Asked about a possible scenario where Beijing uses its Mischief Reef base to blockade the BRP Sierra Madre, Golez - who is a former navy officer and Annapolis graduate - admitted it is “very possible.”  Ayungin is near Mischief Reef and Recto Bank, and Golez believes "China is eyeing both a strategic and economic (oil and gas) target.”

'Strategic triangle' main goal - Golez

Golez stressed, however, that the bigger objective of China’s land reclamation activities is “to build a strategic triangle with the apex at the Paracel Islands, the southwest corner at the cluster of new reclamation projects with Fiery Cross at the lead and the northeast corner at Scarborough Shoal.”

The Paracel Islands are being disputed by China and Vietnam. China has built a runway on Woody Island, which is part of the Paracel Island Group.



Fiery Cross Reef is widely seen as China’s main base of operations in the Spratly Islands as it is building a runway and a harbor, which can serve as a base for its submarines. China is also expanding its garrisons in Gaven Reef, Cuarteron Reef, Johnson Reef and Subi Reef.

In a 2013, a confidential government report noted the presence of several Chinese ships in Scarborough Shoal as well as buoys. "The sighting of buoys in Scarborough Shoal is seen as a prelude to occupation as patterned from the occupation of Mischief Reef in 1995. Likewise, the Chinese Coast Guard ships frequenting the vicinity of the shoal are probably stationed… to be able to respond quickly to a contingency at Scarborough Shoal,” the report said.



“If China succeeds, they would control the South China Sea and devour most of the West Philippine Sea,” Golez said, stressing that this is a “simple, plain classic power play devoid of any basis in international law.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/108570/mischief-reef-land-reclamation-to-restrict-ph-access-to-ayungin-recto-bank

Obama to China: Don't 'elbow' Philippines, Vietnam aside

From InterAksyon (Apr 10): Obama to China: Don't 'elbow' Philippines, Vietnam aside
 

US President Barack Obama warned Thursday that China shouldn't "elbow aside" countries it is in conflict with in the South China Sea, where the United States has sounded an alarm over Chinese construction on disputed islands.

Speaking from a town hall meeting while on a visit to Jamaica, Obama warned against aggressive acts by China while at the same time welcoming its strong economy and global reach.

"Where we get concerned with China is where it is not necessarily abiding by international norms and rules and is using its sheer size and muscle to force countries into subordinate positions, and that is the concern we have around maritime issues," Obama said responding to a question about the South China Sea.

"Just because the Philippines or Vietnam are not as large as China doesn't mean that they can just be elbowed aside."

His comments come as the US warned that Chinese efforts to enlarge and build up disputed islands in the South China Sea are a threat to regional stability.

A newly released set of satellite images revealed that China is artificially expanding a reef in disputed waters, presumably to strengthen its territorial claims.

"In our view, China's land reclamation and the construction activity are fueling greater anxiety within the region," State Department spokesman Jeff Rathke told reporters.

Rathke said Washington is concerned that China "might militarize outposts on disputed land features of the South China Sea.

"So we are watching these developments closely and we continue to raise our concerns with China as well as with others in the region to urge all parties to avoid destabilizing activities."

Obama said diplomatic dialogue is the best way to address the South China Sea dispute.

The US leader was also careful to emphasize that despite disputes with Beijing, China's economic power plays a positive role in the world, and said the US "welcomes" global aid investments.

"We should be more fearful of a poor collapsing China than a China that is participating in the world marketplace," he said.

Satellite images on the website of the Center for Strategic and International Studies show a flotilla of Chinese vessels dredging sand onto a feature known as Mischief Reef.

Images of other outcrops in the Spratly Islands show aircraft runways appearing from jungle, smooth-sided solid masses where there once was coral and man-made harbors replacing natural reefs.

Analysts say the pictures show how China is attempting to create "facts in the water" to bolster its territorial claim.

Beijing asserts sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, including areas near the coasts of other states, using a line that first appeared on Chinese maps in the 1940s.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan all have overlapping claims.

The United States has no claim of its own, but broadly supports its Asian allies against Chinese pressure and has asserted that freedom of navigation is in its national interest.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/108540/obama-to-china-dont-elbow-philippines-vietnam-aside

Troops foil bombing outside Philippine military base

From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 10): Troops foil bombing outside Philippine military base
 

The Philippine military said it disarmed Friday a powerful bomb planted at a karaoke house outside a military base in the southern province of Sulu where troops are battling Abu Sayyaf rebels.

Captain Maria Rowena Muyuela, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command, said the improvised explosive was discovered by civilians in the village of Busbus in Jolo town, just 50 meters from the headquarters of the 2^nd Marine Brigade.

The bar is frequented by soldiers and located just beside a road where military trucks and tanks pass.

Muyuela said the bomb, made from ammonium nitrate concealed in a cooking gas cylinder, was connected to 9 batteries and cellular phones which could trigger detonation.

She said members of the military’s bomb disposal unit disarmed the improvised explosive.

The foiled bombing came a day after troops clashed with rebels in Talipao town that left at least 40 people dead and wounded in the village of Gata.

Muyuela said at least 9 Abu Sayyaf gunmen and two soldiers were slain in the fighting. She said at least 14 rebels and 15 soldiers were also wounded in the fierce clashes.

Troops from the 32nd Infantry Battalion clashed with about 200 rebels under Abu Sayyaf leader Radulan Sahiron and his lieutenant Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan for two hours until the gunmen split into smaller groups and fled.

Muyuela said the military operation against the Abu Sayyaf will continue until their leaders are neutralized. “This (operation) will continue without let-up and until their leaders and members are neutralized,” she told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

It was not immediately known whether Radulan or Hatib were killed or wounded in the battle.

“Intensified law enforcement operation is being undertaken by government troops, local police authorities and are being supported by the local government to expedite the arrest of these lawless groups which is responsible for the series of kidnappings, bombings and other atrocities in the province and adjacent areas,” Muyuela said.

In Sulu, Captain Eugene Bulao, a spokesman for the anti-terror Joint Task Group Sulu, said the wounded soldiers were being treated at a military hospital in Jolo town. “They are being attended to by our medical team,” he said.

The Abu Sayyaf is still holding several Filipino and foreign hostages they seized in different areas in the South and brought to Sulu.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/troops-foil-bombing-outside-philippine-military-base/

NDFP to Aquino gov’t: ‘We’re ready for peace talks’

From the pro-CPP online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Apr 9): NDFP to Aquino gov’t: ‘We’re ready for peace talks’

 

Luis Jalandoni, chairman of the peace panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), calls on the Aquino administration to resume peace talks with the NDFP in a forum, April 8. (Photo by Ronalyn V. Olea / Bulatlat.com)

 

“If the Aquino administration has the political will, peace talks with the NDFP could move forward.”

 

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) said it is willing to sit down and talk with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) any time.

 

Luis Jalandoni, chairman of the NDFP peace panel, said in a forum April 8 that the GPH must not only concentrate on its peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) but also with the NDFP.

Formal peace talks between the GPH and the NDFP have been in impasse since February 2011. Several informal talks were held in the hope of resuming the formal talks but to no avail.

Jalandoni said that a special GPH delegation met with the NDFP panel in the Netherlands in October 2014 to discuss the possibilities of resuming the formal talks.

The same GPH team came back in December 2014 and talked about the possibilities on the resumption of formal talks, the release of detained NDFP consultants, the forging of Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (Caser) within six months, among others.

There are 15 NDFP consultants currently detained in different detention centers all over the country. The NDFP has maintained that the arrest and detention of their consultants violate the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (Jasig).

The GPH team, according to Jalandoni, came back in February this year. “The Mamasapano incident became a big factor in the resumption of formal talks,” he said.

On January 25, the Philippine National Police launched an operation against two terrorists in Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao. The bungled operations left 44 SAF police officers, 18 Moro rebel fighters, and five civilian dead. The tragedy has affected the peace talks between the GPH and the MILF.

Jalandoni added that “the Aquino regime is preoccupied to the deepest extent in the Mamasapano incident.” “The GPH does not want to talk with us anymore. They said they are concentrating on the Mamasapano and the MILF,” Jalandoni said.

The NDFP panel chief welcomed the recent statements of Rep. Silvestre Bello III and of Archbishop Antonio Ledesma calling on the GPH to return to the negotiating table with the NDFP.

Bello served as chairman of the government peace panel and had been involved in the peace talks with the NDFP since the Ramos administration.

The Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP), the organizer of the forum, said it invited the GPH panel to present updates but the latter cancelled its confirmation in the last minute.

Political will

Jalandoni said if the Aquino administration has the “political will,” peace talks with the NDFP could move forward.

He said the NDFP has undertaken initiatives to foster the resumption of formal talks.

He said that the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army carried out releases of prisoners of war as a goodwill measure for the resumption of peace talks. Political prisoners, Jalandoni said, also staged fasting and hunger strike during the Papal visit to highlight their call for the resumption of peace talks.

If only the Aquino administration show political will, it is possible to approve Caser within six months, he said.

Jalandoni said the NDFP has also formed its Working Group on Political and Constitutional Reforms and is willing to form another group to discuss cessation of hostilities and disposition of forces.

 

Connie Ledesma, a member of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) peace panel, calls on the government to respect all previously signed agreements in a forum, April 8. (Photo by Ronalyn V. Olea / Bulatlat.com)

In the same forum, Connie Ledesma, a member of the NDFP peace panel, admitted, “Sometimes, it’s as if we are on a treadmill but we want peace to go forward.”

Previous agreements show that moving forward is not impossible. Ledesma said that the all agreements signed by both parties “are good documents that both sides worked on.”

Ledesma cited the CARHRIHL as an example. At first, both sides were “East and West” but had slowly come together. “Every comma, every period, every phraseology was approved by both sides,” she said.

Ledesma said the same is true with the The Hague Joint Declaration. “The GPH called it a document of perpetual division. It’s meant to be a unity document, a document that serves as the framework for the peace talks.”

She urged peace advocates to study all the agreements signed by both parties and to continue pushing for the resumption of formal talks between the GPH and the NDFP.

Jalandoni said the NDFP has undertaken initiatives to foster the resumption of formal talks. He said that the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army carried out releases of prisoners of war as a goodwill measure for the resumption of peace talks. Political prisoners, Jalandoni said, also staged fasting and hunger strike during the Papal visit to highlight their call for the resumption of peace talks.

Jalandoni also said the NDFP has prepared its draft on the Caser, the next substantive agenda item in the peace talks, as early as 1999 and has been improved and updated since.

The Hague Joint Declaration, the framework agreement for the peace talks between the GPH an the NDFP, sets five substantive agenda which are human rights and international humanitarian law, socio-economic reforms, political and constitutional reforms, end of hostilities and disposition of forces. The Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law was signed by both parties in 1998.

Jalandoni said if the Aquino administration has the political will, it is possible to approve Caser within six months.

Jalandoni said the NDFP has also formed its Working Group on Political and Constitutional Reforms and is willing to form another group to discuss cessation of hostilities and disposition of forces.

In the same forum, Connie Ledesma, a member of the NDFP peace panel, admitted, “Sometimes, it’s as if we are on a treadmill but we want peace to go forward.”

Previous agreements show that moving forward is not impossible. Ledesma said all agreements signed by both parties “are good documents that both sides worked on.”

Ledesma cited as the CARHRIHL as an example. At first, both sides were “East and West” but had slowly come together. “Every comma, every period, every phraseology was approved by both sides,” she said.

Ledesma said the same is true with the The Hague Joint Declaration. “The GPH called it a document of perpetual division. It’s meant to be a unity document, a document that serves as the framework for the peace talks.”

She urged peace advocates to study all the agreements signed by both parties and to continue pushing for the resumption of formal talks between the GPH and the NDFP.

http://bulatlat.com/main/2015/04/09/ndfp-to-aquino-govt-were-ready-for-peace-talks/

Mati remains on alert for NPA attack

From the Sun Star-Davao (Apr 10): Mati remains on alert for NPA attack

THE POLICE and military in Mati City remained on high alert to thwart an attempt by the New People's Army rebels to rescue their jailed comrade.

The Army's 10th Infantry Division spokesman, Lt. Vergel Lacambra, said there is "very high probability" that the rebels will try to spring Prince Wendell Olofernes from the Mati police’s detention cell.

Olofernes was among the 80 rebels who took part in the February 15 assault on the Mati police station.

He is the commander of the Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) Guerrilla Front 18.

The military said Olofernes assumed command of the unit following the arrest of its leader Jordan Donillo last December.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2015/04/10/mati-remains-alert-npa-attack-401749

(Updated) 2 soldiers, 9 ASG bandits killed in fresh fighting in Sulu

From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 10): (Updated) 2 soldiers, 9 ASG bandits killed in fresh fighting in Sulu

Fighting erupted between government troops and some 200 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members in the jungles of Patikul town in Sulu yesterday, leaving at least two soldiers and nine bandits killed, and more than 25 others wounded.

Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, chief military information officer, said the clash started when members of the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion chanced upon a large band of Abu Sayyaf fighters in Barangay Gata at around 10:30 a.m. yesterday.

“Our troops were actually sent there because of the information we have been getting about their presence there,” said Cabunoc in an interview.

Cabunoc revealed that such a large number of ASG men only means consolidation of forces of ASG groups, especially those led by commanders Nil Hairula, Hatib Sawadjaan, and even Radullan Sahiron.

Sahiron is the one-armed ASG commander who is the remaining senior bandit leader operating in Sulu.

“They were spotted in Bud Bagsak area, which is the traditional playing ground of the group of Radullan Sahiron,” said Cabunoc.

The official said two enlisted personnel of the Army were killed in the gun battle, while 15 others were wounded.

Two of the wounded, according to Cabunoc, are junior officers with ranks of 2nd and 1st lieutenants.

At least nine ASG men were also reported killed while 15 others were wounded. Only two of the fatalities were identified, said Cabunoc.

The fatalities were identified as Kiram Jaapar, Adzmer Anni, a certain Rony, Almujer Samlahun, a certain Aljon/Almoger, a certain Sapie, Alnajir Abdurasa, Marjuni Makdam and Mujil Samlahun.

Cabunoc said ground troops were supported by attack helicopters from the Air Force and artillery support.

He said the firefight lasted for two hours, adding that all the casualties were airlifted.
The ASG has long been the security problem of the government, especially in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu.

The group was responsible for bombing activities and kidnap-for-ransom cases that include foreign victims.

The military has long been saying that it already reduced the strength of the ASG and that the bandit group has already splintered into small groups.

Asked of the large number of ASG in the area, Cabunoc said there are two main reasons why the ASG would consolidate their forces, first is to conduct offensive and second is to attend an important gathering as in the case last year when a wedding ceremony was held for a key ASG member.

http://www.mb.com.ph/2-soldiers-9-asg-bandits-killed-in-fresh-fighting-in-sulu/

‘Soldiers’ hunt Huey deal snitch

From the Manila Times (Apr 9): ‘Soldiers’ hunt Huey deal snitch

“I fear for my life but they can’t stop me from exposing them.”

“Joey”­ The Manila Times source who uncovered the Defense department’s allegedly anomalous acquisition of 21 helicopter gunships, made the statement after unidentified men visited his home province early this week and allegedly asked for his whereabouts.

“There were men who went to our house in the province last Tuesday, They spoke to my mother and my siblings, as well as my other relatives and they wanted to know my location,” he told The Times on Thursday, the day the nation marked the valor and heroism of Filipino soldiers during the Second World War.

“If they are harassing me, then I’ll fight back harder this time because I’m on the side of the truth. I am doing this for the country,” Joey said.

Joey is the pseudonym of The Manila Times informant who claimed he has personal knowledge of backroom transactions between defense and military officials and representatives of Rice Aircraft Services Inc. (RASI) and its partner, Eagle Copters Ltd., which bagged the contract to supply 21 refurbished UH-1 combat utility helicopters to the Philippine military.

The contract was canceled by the Department of National Defense (DND) after The Times exposed the allegedly anomalous transaction. Joey backed with documents his narration on how the deal was cut.

“That means the officials of the [DND] who were affected by my expose already know my real identity,” he said.

Lawmakers have filed resolutions asking the Senate and the House of Representatives to look into the alleged anomaly.

Joey, who was personally interviewed by Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito before he filed his own resolution, had repeatedly indicated his willingness to unmask himself and put his expose on record once the congressional inquiry rolls out.

Quoting his family and relatives, Joey said five men on board a black Toyota Corolla sedan (UKU 243) went to their home last Tuesday. The men allegedly told them that they were Joey’s colleagues at work.

The driver of the car, who like his companions had a soldier-like bearing, presented an identification card bearing the name of one Marco Banal Abanilla.

“According to my relatives, the driver is a soldier but they introduced themselves as my co-workers in the office. They pretended that they were looking for me because I was due for promotion.,” The Manila Times informant said.

“I’m saddened that while I’m fighting for my country, I’m being treated like an enemy of the state but the American who tried to pull a fast one in cahoots with his DND contacts moves around freely,” Joey added.

“I will expose all these and all of them.”

Meanwhile, Ejercitoalso on Thursday said his staff have been busy preparing for the expected opening of a Senate blue ribbon inquiry into the helicopter deal within this month.

The author of Resolution 1238, which calls on the blue ribbon panel to investigate the alleged scam, added that he wanted to look deeply into the procurement process and specifically find out why the delivery of the eight of 21 helicopters was accepted despite technical glitches found by Air Force inspectors.

“We will zero in on the procurement process, and find out if indeed officials are liable of accepting these choppers which from the start have allegedly failed to meet the technical specifications based on the Terms of Reference,” Ejercito told The Times.

But nearly a month after Ejercito filed the proposed resolution, the blue ribbon committee headed by Sen. Teofista Guingona 3rd is yet to calendar holding of the inquiry. He filed the measure on March 16 and it was referred to the blue ribbon committee on March 18.

As of Thursday, April 9, public hearings on the case had not been scheduled.

The Manila Times source suspects that Guingona, who is allied with the Aquino administration, is deliberately sitting on the case.

“We can’t help but compare it with the Binay case. Sen. [Antonio] Trillanes [4th] filed the Senate resolution calling for an investigation of the Makati City Hall parking building on August 12 and it was referred to the blue ribbon. Guingona immediately designated Sen. [Aquilino] Pimentel [3rd] and set the hearing on August 20,” the source said.

Binay is Vice President Jejomar Binay, who is also being investigated by the Senate for alleged graft.

The Times tried calling Guingona and his aides on Thursday but they were not picking up calls.

http://www.manilatimes.net/soldiers-hunt-huey-deal-snitch/174630/

PH, Japan reaffirm security ties

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 10): PH, Japan reaffirm security ties

ONCE mortal enemies during World War II, the Philippines and Japan on Thursday extolled their recently-forged strategic security partnership as the United States reaffirmed in Tokyo its commitment to peace and security in the Asian region.

This was the common theme of President Benigno Aquino III, Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa and United States Ambassador Philip Goldberg as they stood shoulder to shoulder at the war memorial in Mount Samat, Bataan to mark the 73rd anniversary of the fall of Bataan in 1942.

“Is it not true that even the victors and survivors needed to rebuild from the ashes? From such an insight, the opportunity rose: Because of their decision, adversaries became partners,” Aquino said.

“Former enemies are now allies in attaining a just peace for all,” he said. “It is clear progress is impossible if everyone will be on their own. Violence will only cause more suffering and misunderstanding while unity will bring development.”

It was the first time Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa attended the Day of Valor rite, but he reiterated his country’s apology to all who suffered because of Japan’s occupation of the country from 1941 to 1945.

“I wish to express our heartfelt apologies and deep sense of remorse for all who suffered during those fateful days. We all remember and never forget what happened here,” Ishikawa said, stressing that enmity has turned into a “close friendship” with both the Philippines and the United States.

Ishikawa made the remark a day after US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter kicked off his first Asian tour in Tokyo and warned against the militarization of territorial rows in Asia where China is at odds with both Japan and the Philippines.

“We take a strong stance against the militarization of these disputes,” Carter said after talks with his Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani.

In January, Nakatani also signed a defense cooperation and exchange agreement with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin outlining a strategic partnership that covers capacity building, disaster assistance and training, maritime security and “possible cooperation in defense equipment and technology.”

The Philippines in return supported Tokyo’s announced plan to amend its constitution that would allow Japan a more active military role in regional security.

Goldberg also noted the novelty of former enemies becoming close friends and honored the memory and heroism of the 44 Special Action Force commandos “who laid down their lives to protect all against international terrorism.”

He also reiterated the declaration of US President Barack Obama last year that “our commitment to the Philippines under our Mutual Defense Treaty is ironclad.”

“In good times and bad, we stand together, shoulder-to-shoulder. In 2015, as in 1942, we face challenges and threats together as partners, friends, and in many cases now, family. Whether we are fighting terrorism or responding to the devastation of natural disasters, we face them together. And when the Philippines is threatened, it is not alone,” Goldberg said.

In his speech, Aquino also made a pitch for the passage in Congress of the controversial Bangsamoro Basic Law, saying the lessons of World War II must not take place ever again because conflict will only lead to more suffering and misunderstanding.

“This is the same lesson that leads us to champion lasting peace in Mindanao, and to call for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he said.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/04/10/ph-japan-reaffirm-security-ties/

MILF ‘lost command’ abducted Naga mayor

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 10): MILF ‘lost command’ abducted Naga mayor

THE military and police said Thursday a lost command of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by Waning Abdusalam was most likely behind the abduction of Naga town Mayor Gema Adana in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

Western Mindanao Command public affairs officer Capt. Ma. Rowena Muyela said the Abdusalam group and their victim were still inside province as a joint task force and provincial police intensified security patrols off the waters of Naga, Kabasalan and Imelda.

Military and police records show there are several warrants out for Abdusalam.

Abdusalam was was also tagged in the abduction of Monalisa Capa in Poblacion, Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur on Oct. 08, 2011; Mrs. Nena Torremocha in Olutanga Island, Zamboanga Sibugay on April 12, 2010; Jocelyn Enriquez, Noime Mande and Jocelyn Inion in Barangay

Bangkaw-Bangkaw, Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay on March 13, 2009.

Adana was kidnapped by six armed men clad in military uniforms at her residence in Barangay Taytay Manubo during the Naga fiesta celebration.

Her police security was not around during the abduction, but the mayor’s father fired shots at the abductors as they were escaping.

In Insulan, Sultan Kudarat, a police ordnance team thwarted a bomb attack against a public utility bus filled with passengers along the national highway.

A report reaching Camp Aquinaldo said the improvised explosive device made of a 60mm mortar round stuffed in a plastic bag was taken out by the responding bomb squad team at 11:20 a.m. from the YBL bus.

The team took the bomb to a safe distance and set it off.

Before the bomb squad arrived, the driver and conductor emptied their bus of passengers and called the police hotline for help.

“A passenger alerted the driver of a plastic bag at the rear portion of the Isulan-bound bus that left Koronadal City around 10a.m.,” the military report said.

Nobody could remember who brought the plastic bad on board the bus.

In Sitio Nangka, Barangay Gata, in Talipao, Sulu, two soldiers and six bandits were killed and dozens were wounded when government forces assaulted the lair of Abu Sayyaf Group.

Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala said the two soldiers who died were from the 32nd Infantry Battalion, and that two among the 15 wounded troopers were captains.

Kakilala said the Air Force provided close air support with two MD520 attack helicopters armed with machine guns and rockets during the assault.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/04/10/milf-lost-command-abducted-naga-mayor/

Pass BBL, we reveal our true identities—Iqbal

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 10): Pass BBL, we reveal our true identities—Iqbal

LEADERS of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will reveal their real names once the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is passed, MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said.

“If you pass the BBL, everything will normalize. And then you will know our names,” said Iqbal, who has refused to reveal his real name to lawmakers investigating the Mamasapano debacle in which 44 police commandos were killed by Muslim rebels, including those from the MILF.

Iqbal

MILF chairman Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim and MILF vice-chairman Ghadzali Jaafar have also refused to disclose their true names.

“I don’t know why they (lawmakers) are making a big issue out of this. It is common sense that we will not reveal our real names until the BBL is passed into law because we remain a revolutionary organization and it is also for our security,” Iqbal said.

In a separate interview, a well-placed source in the intelligence community said before Iqbal became known as Iqbal, he was born Salah Jubair.

The source, who was also previously involved in the peace process, said Iqbal used his real name in the two books that he wrote -- “The Long Road to Peace: Inside the GRP-MILF Peace Process” and “Bangsamoro: A nation under endless tyranny.”

Iqbal confirmed to The Standard that Salah Jubair was his “nickname” but he still would not disclose his full name.

“Because of security reasons, my name on the passport is known only to the government. I travel a lot—maybe hundred times. But I’m not hiding my name on my passport,” Iqbal said in a previous hearing at the House of Representatives.

Born in Cotabato City, the former mujahideen who now calls himself Iqbal last renewed his Philippine passport on Jan. 20, 2012 at the regional office of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said will bring up the issue of Iqbal’s use of an alias in negotiating with the government at the resumption of the hearing on the proposed BBL on Monday.

“We need to find out the implications of this, also the reason why he used a pseudonym. This is an important revelation and raises many questions,” Marcos said.

“Who notarized the agreements he signed and what were the documents he presented identifying himself as Iqbal? Why did he feel he needed to hide (behind) an alias? Who is he?” Marcos added.

Acting Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III said “the government should not be talking to an unknown personality.”

Iqbal and government peace panel head Miriam Coronel Ferrer have both admitted that the former did not use his real name in the peace agreements with the government. Among the documents signed by Iqbal were the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on Oct. 15,
2012 and Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on March 27, 2014.

A Palace ally in the House, Davao City Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles said Iqbal’s use of an alias when he signed the documents started the peace process on the wrong foot.

“There was no transparency and honesty on the part of the MILF peace negotiator,” Nograles said. “If they are sincere about the negotiations, we should lay out all the cards on the table, with nothing hidden.”

Nograles also dismissed the claim of the presidential adviser on the peace process Teresita Deles that she learned that the MILF negotiator’s name was an alias only after Iqbal’s admission.

“This runs counter to the statement of peace negotiator Miriam Coronel Ferrer who earlier issued a statement that government has always known that Mohagher Iqbal is not his real name,” Nograles said.

“The problem with using aliases is that it allows a person to assume different personalities. That is why we have laws against illegal use of aliases especially when signing public documents because it is very difficult to determine the sincerity or true intent of the person using an illegal alias,” he added.

Senator Nancy Binay, meanwhile, said she will ask Marcos to invite the conveners of the National Peace Summit to the Senate hearing Monday.
She said Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr., Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Howard Dee and Muslim Princess Bai Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman, tapped by President Benigno Aquino III to discuss the BBL, could help the Senate panel make decisions on the draft law.

The BBL has faced rough sailing after the death of the 44 police commandos at Mamasapano, a clash the MILF said was self defense.

Also on Thursday, the Muslim Bar Association labasted the leaders of the MILF for threatening the government with retaliation should the BBL be defeated in Congress.

Firdausi Abbas, president of the group, said MILF vice chairman Mohaquer Iqbal has no right to threaten the government and should instead defend their position on the BBL.

He also questioned the MILF’s military capability to withstand a full-scale war.

The administration and the MILF have warned that the failure to pass the BBL could lead to renewed war in Mindanao.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/04/10/pass-bbl-we-reveal-our-true-identities-iqbal/

Solon says AFP officials speaking out to avoid being ‘demonized’ in Mamasapano clash

From GMA News (Apr 9): Solon says AFP officials speaking out to avoid being ‘demonized’ in Mamasapano clash

A member of the House of Representatives on Thursday said military officials speak out at House hearings on the January 25 Mamasapano clash to give balance to the public's perception of the incident, where they may have been put in a bad light for the delay in artillery support for the elite police.

 

In an interview with News To Go, Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said the officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines are probably airing their side at the hearings because sacked Philippine National Police-Special Action Force chief Dir. Getulio Napeñas "continues to blame" them.

 

[Video news report]

 

"Ang nakikita ho natin, in as much as the Armed Forces wants to restrain itself, Gen. Napeñas continues to blame the Armed Forces. That is why I think the Armed Forces airs its side... para magka-balanse sa pananaw ng taumbayan. Kasi made-demonize ang Armed Forces kung hindi sila magsasalita," he said.

 

Army and police officials tussled anew over details of the delayed artillery support at the resumption of the House hearing on the incident on Wednesday. The exchange of conflicting statements began after Napeñas was asked to present again the grid coordinates he and SAF officials claimed they showed when they asked for reinforcement. 

 

Alejano acknowledged that both organizations are not perfect, and there is a need "to review our national security strategy."

 

He added, "Gusto lang sana nating maiwasan ang pagsisisi sa isa't isa dahil meron na ngang namatay.... We have to review our national security strategy and the mandate of the Armed Forces and the PNP. We should look [into] whether the PNP is ready to take over the role."

 

‘Capacitate’ to help

 

Alejano, a former officer of the Philippine Navy, pointed out that giving the AFP a chance to air its side is not a way to discredit the SAF, but to answer issues like why three SAF companies on the roadside failed to rescue their beleaguered comrades during the clash.

 

"We have to let the people know kung ano ang tunay na nangyari. 'Di natin dini-discredit ang SAF. Kahit gaano kaganda ang plano, hindi maaalis ang posibilidad na may mamamatay. Dapat himayin dahil lumalabas, kasalanan ng Armed Forces bakit maraming namatay sa SAF," he said.

 

He added: "Ang unang-unang may responsibility na sumagip sa SAF ay kapwa SAF na kasama sa plano at may tasking 'yan."

 

Furthermore, Alejano said that AFP would provide assistance, much more to the PNP with their long-standing partnership, but they could only provide swift response with sufficient information.

 

"We should also remember na kailangang i-capacitate ang tumutulong para efficiently makatulong. Ang artillery, 'di natin basta-basta binabagsak 'yan dahil may nadadamay. May namamatay dahil sa friendly fire kaya maingat tayo sa paggamit ng artillery natin," he said.

 

Napeñas, Purisima, US involvement

 

Alejano also said resigned PNP chief Dir. Gen. Alan Purisima's role in Oplan Exodus was "questionable," having been the one to bring Napeñas before the President to present the mission plan.

 

"I believe hindi siya dapat kasama diyan," he said.

 

He added: "Sa part ni [Dir.] Napeñas, hindi naman siya makapagsabi ng hindi. May powers si Gen. Purisima na dalhin siya sa Pangulo. 'Di na siya nagtanong [kasi] may authority."

 

On the participation of the US in the operation, Alejano pointed out that their help in intelligence gathering and technical support is part of the agreement between them and the Philippines.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/466858/news/nation/solon-says-afp-officials-speaking-out-to-avoid-being-demonized-in-mamasapano-clash

Experts split on validity of peace deals Iqbal signed for MILF

From GMA News (Apr 9): Experts split on validity of peace deals Iqbal signed for MILF

Two legal experts are split on the issue of whether Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal's admission of using a nom de guerre would derail the peace talks between the rebel group and the goverment.

Fr. Ranhilio Aquino, dean of the San Beda College of Law, said the two peace deals which Iqbal had signed would remain valid even if Iqbal had admitted using aliases in the past.

Among the documents signed by Iqbal were the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on October 15, 2012 and Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on March 27, 2014.

"It is still valid since his identity is not questioned," Aquino told GMA News Online.

He, however, said Iqbal's acts would not go unpunished if a complaint was filed.

"He may be prosecuted for the illegal use of an alias," said Aquino, saying the rebel leader could be held liable for violation of Commonwealth Act 142 (An Act to Regulate the Use of Aliases) as amended by Republic Act 6085.

Aquino cited the 1996 Supreme Court case Ursua v. Court of Appeals, in which the petitioner was cleared of charges despite using someone else's name to sign a log book at the Office of the Ombudsman in Davao City where he was to pick up a document for his lawyer.

Harry Roque Jr., law professor at the University of the Philippines, thinks otherwise.

Roque said the peace agreement between the government and the rebel group would be affected due to Iqbal's admission.

"Hindi na valid iyong deals kasi (lumalabas) fictitious person siya eh," Roque said in a separate interview.

During the hearing of the House of Representatives on the Mamasapano clash Wednesday, Iqbal refused to divulge his real name saying even heroes use aliases.

At the Senate, Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he would bring up the issue of Iqbal's use of an alias in negotiating with the government at the resumption of the Senate's hearing on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law on Monday.

The senator said Iqbal's decision not to use his real name on government documents raised many questions.

Marcos added that beyond the legal implications of the use of an alias, it calls into question the MILF’s good faith in entering into the peace agreement.

Iqbal has already admitted that he did not use his real name in the peace agreements with the government.

The Bangsamoro Basic Law is the embodiment of the peace agreements signed by the Philippine government and the MILF which aims to end the decades-old conflict in Mindanao.

It seeks to create the Bangsamoro political entity which will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It will also specify wealth- and power-sharing arrangements between the national government and the new political entity.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/467190/news/nation/experts-split-on-validity-of-peace-deals-iqbal-signed-for-milf

US State Dept: Chinese activity in South China Sea causing regional ‘anxiety’

From GMA News (Apr 10): US State Dept: Chinese activity in South China Sea causing regional ‘anxiety’

The US State Department on Thursday said it regards Chinese reclamation in the South China Sea as "fueling greater anxiety" in the region, amid doubts about Beijing's intentions.

 

China on Thursday released plans for islands it is creating in the disputed South China Sea. 

 

But State Department spokesman Jeff Rathke said the United States continues to raise concerns with China and others in the region about the situation.

 

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a news briefing that the reclamation and building work in the Spratly archipelago of the South China Sea was needed partly because of the risk of typhoons in an area with a lot of shipping that is far from land.

 

"We are building shelters, aids for navigation, search and rescue as well as marine meteorological forecasting services, fishery services and other administrative services" for China and neighbouring countries, Hua said.

On the other hand, the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to pursue peaceful ways to settle its maritime dispute in the South China Sea, parts of it Manila calls West Philippine Sea. 

 

"Sa ngayon, tuloy pa ring pinu-pursue ng Pilipinas ang diplomatic and legal tracks bilang record po natin for a peaceful settlement and rules-based of settlement dito po [sa] overlapping maritime claims dito po sa South China Sea," said DFA spokesperson Charles Jose said in an interview with GMA News TV's Quick Response Team on Thursday. 

 

In July 2013, a United Nations arbitral tribunal was convened to look into the complaint filed by the Philippines disputing China's claims over the West Philippine Sea.

 

Jose said the DFA trusts that the arbitral tribunal will be fair and rule on the basis of international law. 

 

"Ito po sa tingin natin ay the great leveler kasi nga ang China dinadaan sa lakas itong issue sa South China Sea. Umaasa po tayo na sa ilalim ng international law, lahat po ay pantay-pantay. Umaasa po tayo ng fair treatment," the spokesperson said.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/467258/news/nation/us-state-dept-chinese-activity-in-south-china-sea-causing-regional-anxiety

Captors turn over Zambo-Sibugay mayor to Abu Sayyaf — source

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 10): Captors turn over Zambo-Sibugay mayor to Abu Sayyaf — source

Authorities are now checking reports that abducted Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga town, Zamboanga Sibugay has been turned over to the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu.

Unconfirmed reports showed that Adana was monitored in Sulu two days ago being turned over to unknown Abu Sayyaf band.

Security officials from both the police and military are now checking on the report.

“They were monitored in Sulu two days ago but it was not known when did they actually arrived…it will only take six hours from Zamboanga if they went to Sulu immediately (after the abduction),” one source said.

“(She was) turned over but there are no details…it was not known where in Sulu and to what faction (of the Abu Sayyaf),” added the source.

Another source confirmed the existence of such report but it has not been validated.

“There is still no confirmation because it was a single source information given to the intelligence units that’s why we are validating it,” the second source said.

Adana was snatched by more or less five armed men inside her residence in Barangay Taytay Manubo, Naga Monday evening.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) immediately launched intensified operation to rescue the lady mayor.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas vowed that the perpetrators of the latest kidnapping will face the full force of the law.

Roxas also ordered the convening of a crisis committee to address the kidnapping.

Reports said that Adana was with her friends when the suspects, armed with short firearms, barged in and forcibly took the mayor. The group sped off towards the sea onboard two motorized bancas.

The military’s Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) has deployed elements of the 17th Special Forces Company and Naval Special operations Unit to assist the PNP in the rescue operation.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/captors-turn-over-zambo-sibugay-mayor-to-abu-sayyaf-source