From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Successful BOL plebiscite shows 'democratic rights' working in PH
The successful conduct of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite on Monday shows "democratic rights" are alive and well in the Philippines.
This was stated by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana when sought for a comment on the success of the polls and what the government is planning to do next.
"Yesterday’s (Monday) successful BOL plebiscite is an exercise of democratic rights by our Muslim brothers and sisters and they have spoken. We shall respect their decision," Lorenzana said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Tuesday.
Citing partial and unofficial results, Lorenzana said that he does not consider the apparent lead of the "yes" vote a slap to those opposing it.
Lorenzana also urged everyone in the BOL area to accept the results and unite to make it a success.
"It would be best for everyone in the BOL area to accept the result and that everyone unite to make this new BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) a success. After all, the objective of this exercise and the BOL is to benefit all the people there. That should be the primary goal of the new set of officials of the BARMM," the DND chief added.
On Monday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) conducted the plebiscite for the ratification of the BOL, which seeks to create the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The provinces included are Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi; as well in Cotabato City and Isabela City.
Another plebiscite is scheduled on Feb. 6 in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan in the province of North Cotabato and the 28 barangays to be included in the region.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059643
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
AFP to conduct 'after review activity' on BOL poll security
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): AFP to conduct 'after review activity' on BOL poll security
While Monday's Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite was generally peaceful and incident-free, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will conduct an "after activity review" to further identify gaps and best practices in the implementation of security measures.
This was disclosed by AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato Tuesday when asked on how the military plans to make the next BOL plebiscite on February 6 more secure.
"(We will conduct an) after activity review muna (first) to identify gaps and best practices. Then make necessary adjustments for the next plebiscite on February 6. With all the successful operations and praises, we cannot sit down and rest on it," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Tuesday.
"The AFP is a very dynamic organization so we have to continuously improve and evolve to anticipate the ever changing security environment," he added.
The military allocated 10,000 plus troops and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscite along with the Philippine National Police (PNP) on January 21 and February 6.
"The area for the February 6 plebiscite will be smaller, so the AFP can concentrate more forces to secure the smaller area covered by the 2nd BOL plebiscite," Detoyato noted.
"Rest assured, the AFP together with the PNP and with the big help from OPAPP (Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process) the LGUs (local government units) and MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) leadership, the coming plebiscite will be conducted smoothly," he earlier said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059648
While Monday's Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite was generally peaceful and incident-free, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will conduct an "after activity review" to further identify gaps and best practices in the implementation of security measures.
This was disclosed by AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato Tuesday when asked on how the military plans to make the next BOL plebiscite on February 6 more secure.
"(We will conduct an) after activity review muna (first) to identify gaps and best practices. Then make necessary adjustments for the next plebiscite on February 6. With all the successful operations and praises, we cannot sit down and rest on it," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Tuesday.
"The AFP is a very dynamic organization so we have to continuously improve and evolve to anticipate the ever changing security environment," he added.
The military allocated 10,000 plus troops and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscite along with the Philippine National Police (PNP) on January 21 and February 6.
"The area for the February 6 plebiscite will be smaller, so the AFP can concentrate more forces to secure the smaller area covered by the 2nd BOL plebiscite," Detoyato noted.
"Rest assured, the AFP together with the PNP and with the big help from OPAPP (Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process) the LGUs (local government units) and MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) leadership, the coming plebiscite will be conducted smoothly," he earlier said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059648
Santos right man for Eastmincom top post: AFP chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Santos right man for Eastmincom top post: AFP chief
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal said Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos deserves his post as the new Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom).
"We are assured that he is the right man who will capably handle difficult tasks with leadership, finesse, and professionalism. We congratulate (Maj. Gen. Santos) for another milestone in [his] military career," Madrigal said in a statement late Monday.
Santos took over the helm of the Eastmincom Monday in a change-of-command ceremony presided by Madrigal at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City.
Santos, the incumbent commander of the Nueva Ecija-based 7th Infantry Division, is not new to Mindanao as he had been involved in a wide range of peace and security programs in the area before.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, Santos spent most of his junior years with the 39th Infantry Battalion, a unit deployed in various provinces in Mindanao.
An adept military officer, he was assigned to strategic military offices dealing with operations, intelligence, and civil-military operations.
He also once headed the 11th Intelligence Service Unit based in Davao City.
Prior to his appointment as Eastmincom head, Santos held the positions of Chief of Operations of Central Command in Visayas; 703rd Infantry Brigade Commander in Central Luzon; Battalion Commander of 63rd Infantry Battalion in Samar Province; and Assistant Division Commander of 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Awang Maguindanao.
Aside from Operations and Intelligence, Santos’ experience in civil-military operations is expected to boost the peace and security efforts in Eastern Mindanao.
Having been assigned with AFP Civil Relations Service and served as head of the Army’s former Civil Military Operations Group, he will lead the Command’s implementation of Executive Order 70 which institutionalizes the "whole of nation approach" in fighting insurgency in the country.
Prior to Santos' assumption, Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, led Eastmincom in an acting capacity after Madrigal was appointed as AFP chief December 8, 2018.
Villanueva's brief stint as acting Eastmincom commander was praised by the Madrigal, citing his experience as Brigade and Division commander in Mindanao.
"I have immense confidence in his leadership acumen and strategic prowess knowing his extensive and vast experiences as the Commander of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade and as the incumbent Commander of 4ID (Infantry Division)," Madrigal stressed.
Villanueva will continue to perform his duties as the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army based in Camp Evangelista, Cagayan De Oro.
"To the men and women of Eastmincom, your invaluable service is the driving factor as we move forward with our objectives. I urge you to give your all-out support to your new commander as we pursue our peace and security interests here in Eastern Mindanao," Madrigal stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059638
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal said Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos deserves his post as the new Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom).
"We are assured that he is the right man who will capably handle difficult tasks with leadership, finesse, and professionalism. We congratulate (Maj. Gen. Santos) for another milestone in [his] military career," Madrigal said in a statement late Monday.
Santos took over the helm of the Eastmincom Monday in a change-of-command ceremony presided by Madrigal at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City.
Santos, the incumbent commander of the Nueva Ecija-based 7th Infantry Division, is not new to Mindanao as he had been involved in a wide range of peace and security programs in the area before.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, Santos spent most of his junior years with the 39th Infantry Battalion, a unit deployed in various provinces in Mindanao.
An adept military officer, he was assigned to strategic military offices dealing with operations, intelligence, and civil-military operations.
He also once headed the 11th Intelligence Service Unit based in Davao City.
Prior to his appointment as Eastmincom head, Santos held the positions of Chief of Operations of Central Command in Visayas; 703rd Infantry Brigade Commander in Central Luzon; Battalion Commander of 63rd Infantry Battalion in Samar Province; and Assistant Division Commander of 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Awang Maguindanao.
Aside from Operations and Intelligence, Santos’ experience in civil-military operations is expected to boost the peace and security efforts in Eastern Mindanao.
Having been assigned with AFP Civil Relations Service and served as head of the Army’s former Civil Military Operations Group, he will lead the Command’s implementation of Executive Order 70 which institutionalizes the "whole of nation approach" in fighting insurgency in the country.
Prior to Santos' assumption, Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, led Eastmincom in an acting capacity after Madrigal was appointed as AFP chief December 8, 2018.
Villanueva's brief stint as acting Eastmincom commander was praised by the Madrigal, citing his experience as Brigade and Division commander in Mindanao.
"I have immense confidence in his leadership acumen and strategic prowess knowing his extensive and vast experiences as the Commander of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade and as the incumbent Commander of 4ID (Infantry Division)," Madrigal stressed.
Villanueva will continue to perform his duties as the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army based in Camp Evangelista, Cagayan De Oro.
"To the men and women of Eastmincom, your invaluable service is the driving factor as we move forward with our objectives. I urge you to give your all-out support to your new commander as we pursue our peace and security interests here in Eastern Mindanao," Madrigal stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059638
Most Muslims favor BOL approval: SWS
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Most Muslims favor BOL approval: SWS
As the canvassing of the Bangsamoro plebiscite results continues, the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed that 79 percent of Muslims nationwide favor the approval of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).
In the SWS report released Monday, 67 percent of Muslims nationwide say they definitely want it, 12 percent somewhat want it, 14 percent were undecided, 4 percent somewhat do not want it, while 3 percent said they don't want it.
This gives a net approval score of +72.
The same survey also showed that there is a higher net approval among those who understand the law.
For respondents who have extensive knowledge about the BOL, a net approval was recorded at +43, with 62 percent saying they definitely/somewhat want it and 19 percent who said they somewhat/definitely do not want it (19 percent undecided).
President Rodrigo Duterte has since pitched for the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, officially the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, being the first president who hails from Mindanao and bore witness to the ‘Moro problem’.
The President, in a “peace assembly” held last Jan. 18 – or three days before the first plebiscite on Monday, January 21 -- called on the people of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City to cast their vote for the BOL's ratification.
“Let us use the plebiscite as a peaceful means to finally correct the historical injustice committed against the Bangsamoro people,” Duterte said.
The net approval of the BOL was higher among those satisfied with his performance, at 20 percent. Some 5 percent are undecided, while a -3 percent said otherwise.
Upon approval, the historic law would pave the way for the abolition of the ARMM, which was established in 1989 through Republic Act 6734.
The ARMM groups the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
The Bangsamoro government will be parliamentary-democratic in form, a first in the country's political history.
It will be headed by a regional leader called a chief minister, who will preside over an 80-member parliament.
The nationwide SWS poll, conducted from Dec. 16 to 19, 2018, was determined using face-to-face interviews of 1,440 adults ages 18 and older.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059659
As the canvassing of the Bangsamoro plebiscite results continues, the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed that 79 percent of Muslims nationwide favor the approval of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).
In the SWS report released Monday, 67 percent of Muslims nationwide say they definitely want it, 12 percent somewhat want it, 14 percent were undecided, 4 percent somewhat do not want it, while 3 percent said they don't want it.
This gives a net approval score of +72.
The same survey also showed that there is a higher net approval among those who understand the law.
For respondents who have extensive knowledge about the BOL, a net approval was recorded at +43, with 62 percent saying they definitely/somewhat want it and 19 percent who said they somewhat/definitely do not want it (19 percent undecided).
President Rodrigo Duterte has since pitched for the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, officially the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, being the first president who hails from Mindanao and bore witness to the ‘Moro problem’.
The President, in a “peace assembly” held last Jan. 18 – or three days before the first plebiscite on Monday, January 21 -- called on the people of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City to cast their vote for the BOL's ratification.
“Let us use the plebiscite as a peaceful means to finally correct the historical injustice committed against the Bangsamoro people,” Duterte said.
The net approval of the BOL was higher among those satisfied with his performance, at 20 percent. Some 5 percent are undecided, while a -3 percent said otherwise.
Upon approval, the historic law would pave the way for the abolition of the ARMM, which was established in 1989 through Republic Act 6734.
The ARMM groups the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
The Bangsamoro government will be parliamentary-democratic in form, a first in the country's political history.
It will be headed by a regional leader called a chief minister, who will preside over an 80-member parliament.
The nationwide SWS poll, conducted from Dec. 16 to 19, 2018, was determined using face-to-face interviews of 1,440 adults ages 18 and older.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059659
BOL to bring lasting peace in Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): BOL to bring lasting peace in Mindanao
The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) lauded the creation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in pursuit of peace and prosperity in Mindanao Region and at the same time recognized that "the path to the realization of the BOL is complex and filled with challenges."
"We commend the Bangsamoro Organic Law for addressing the root sources of social violence in Southern Philippines. Indeed, the meaning of peace goes deeper than the cessation of militarized encounters. Studies on Mindanao such as those by Montiel (2012; 2013), Bulatao (1973), and Saber (1969) imply that among Muslims peace is strongly associated with Muslim culture and land-related debates. The BOL forefronts both of these issues," the NRCP said in a statement.
It said the BOL comprehensively addresses many aspirations and issues citing Article 1 which establishes the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, while Article 2 asserts the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, and establishes the territorial jurisdiction over constituent units and bodies of waters.
In its 18 Articles, NRCP said the BOL further outlines and illustrates how power and wealth will be decentralized to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
"A deeper peace in Mindanao will certainly open up more avenues for political democracy and economic prosperity," it said.
However, the group stressed that the BOL's passage is only the beginning, though a very important one.
"We note that political transitions anywhere, in any form carry with them challenges such as reversal of powers to long established dominant groups, or the slow pace of policy execution, or the lack of support from citizens. Cognizant of these challenges, those trusts in the pursuit of the BOL see the need to utilize appropriate communal resources during the difficult transition period," it said.
"The Bangsamoro Organic Law engenders a form of decentralization through power-sharing between national and sub-national levels of government. However, power-sharing is not easy to implement. Decentralization presents both opportunities and risks. On the hand, autonomous regions can turn more culturally creative, economically productive, and politically accountable communities precisely because they are no longer stifled by centralizing domination," it added.
On the other hand, NRCP said such centrifugal forces may likewise unleash destructive fragmentation that may create new social divisions and separations or may perpetrate the domination of traditional powers and authorities.
"Indeed, the cooperation and partnership among diverse groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MNLF), indigenous peoples, Christians, and the Philippine government, who have been instrumental in the forging of the BOL, are essential to the BOL's intent and purposes," it said.
Meanwhile the group recommends measures that are necessary for a healing process and to build a society of peace and development.
Such measures include: Address the memories and traumas; Encourage greater tolerance and intercultural living among clans and communities that respect and recognize diverse beliefs, customs, and practices; Capacitate communities around participatory and shared efforts in local governance; Enhance the capacities and skills of local authorities, particularly in leadership under the new Bangsamoro Organic law; and Encourage and incentivize experts and scientists to share the competency necessary for a local democracy to be inclusive and developmental.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059586
The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) lauded the creation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in pursuit of peace and prosperity in Mindanao Region and at the same time recognized that "the path to the realization of the BOL is complex and filled with challenges."
"We commend the Bangsamoro Organic Law for addressing the root sources of social violence in Southern Philippines. Indeed, the meaning of peace goes deeper than the cessation of militarized encounters. Studies on Mindanao such as those by Montiel (2012; 2013), Bulatao (1973), and Saber (1969) imply that among Muslims peace is strongly associated with Muslim culture and land-related debates. The BOL forefronts both of these issues," the NRCP said in a statement.
It said the BOL comprehensively addresses many aspirations and issues citing Article 1 which establishes the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, while Article 2 asserts the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, and establishes the territorial jurisdiction over constituent units and bodies of waters.
In its 18 Articles, NRCP said the BOL further outlines and illustrates how power and wealth will be decentralized to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
"A deeper peace in Mindanao will certainly open up more avenues for political democracy and economic prosperity," it said.
However, the group stressed that the BOL's passage is only the beginning, though a very important one.
"We note that political transitions anywhere, in any form carry with them challenges such as reversal of powers to long established dominant groups, or the slow pace of policy execution, or the lack of support from citizens. Cognizant of these challenges, those trusts in the pursuit of the BOL see the need to utilize appropriate communal resources during the difficult transition period," it said.
"The Bangsamoro Organic Law engenders a form of decentralization through power-sharing between national and sub-national levels of government. However, power-sharing is not easy to implement. Decentralization presents both opportunities and risks. On the hand, autonomous regions can turn more culturally creative, economically productive, and politically accountable communities precisely because they are no longer stifled by centralizing domination," it added.
On the other hand, NRCP said such centrifugal forces may likewise unleash destructive fragmentation that may create new social divisions and separations or may perpetrate the domination of traditional powers and authorities.
"Indeed, the cooperation and partnership among diverse groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MNLF), indigenous peoples, Christians, and the Philippine government, who have been instrumental in the forging of the BOL, are essential to the BOL's intent and purposes," it said.
Meanwhile the group recommends measures that are necessary for a healing process and to build a society of peace and development.
Such measures include: Address the memories and traumas; Encourage greater tolerance and intercultural living among clans and communities that respect and recognize diverse beliefs, customs, and practices; Capacitate communities around participatory and shared efforts in local governance; Enhance the capacities and skills of local authorities, particularly in leadership under the new Bangsamoro Organic law; and Encourage and incentivize experts and scientists to share the competency necessary for a local democracy to be inclusive and developmental.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059586
Joma Sison analysis of BOL plebiscite 'delusional’: Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Joma Sison analysis of BOL plebiscite 'delusional’: Palace
Malacañang on Tuesday dismissed Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison’s claims against the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite, calling it a "delusional analysis".
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made this remark after Sison said the BOL would be ratified in the plebiscite due to President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s alleged coercive influence.
"Jose Ma. Sison is once again talking nonsense by engaging in a delusional analysis on a political event that further exposes his blissful ignorance," Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo said the ratification of the BOL through a plebiscite will be done with the people's desire and not by force as alleged by Sison.
"The voters will ratify the BOL, as we hope and expect, not because of vote buying and presidential coercive influence, as falsely claimed by Sison, but due to the electorate's belief that its ratification will yield the long-desired growth and development that remains elusive in Mindanao," Panelo said.
The plebiscite on the ratification of the BOL was held on Monday in the five provinces of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) -- Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi -- and the cities of Cotabato and Isabela.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reportedly set on Wednesday the canvassing of votes after no certificates of canvass (COCs) were delivered on Tuesday to the Comelec’s head office in Intramuros, Manila.
Other areas in the proposed Bangsamoro entity will have their plebiscite on February 6.
The BOL, previously known as the Bangsamoro Basic Law and considered as one of Duterte’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to give the Moro people basic legal tools to chart their own destiny within the country’s Constitutional framework.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059647
Malacañang on Tuesday dismissed Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison’s claims against the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite, calling it a "delusional analysis".
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made this remark after Sison said the BOL would be ratified in the plebiscite due to President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s alleged coercive influence.
"Jose Ma. Sison is once again talking nonsense by engaging in a delusional analysis on a political event that further exposes his blissful ignorance," Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo said the ratification of the BOL through a plebiscite will be done with the people's desire and not by force as alleged by Sison.
"The voters will ratify the BOL, as we hope and expect, not because of vote buying and presidential coercive influence, as falsely claimed by Sison, but due to the electorate's belief that its ratification will yield the long-desired growth and development that remains elusive in Mindanao," Panelo said.
The plebiscite on the ratification of the BOL was held on Monday in the five provinces of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) -- Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi -- and the cities of Cotabato and Isabela.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reportedly set on Wednesday the canvassing of votes after no certificates of canvass (COCs) were delivered on Tuesday to the Comelec’s head office in Intramuros, Manila.
Other areas in the proposed Bangsamoro entity will have their plebiscite on February 6.
The BOL, previously known as the Bangsamoro Basic Law and considered as one of Duterte’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to give the Moro people basic legal tools to chart their own destiny within the country’s Constitutional framework.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059647
Creation of Bangsamoro Region to spur growth -- NEDA
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Creation of Bangsamoro Region to spur growth -- NEDA
The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR) would open up high growth prospects for the area and the rest of the country, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said.
The first part of the plebiscite in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City took place on January 21. It will be followed by another plebiscite on February 6 in Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City, and North Cotabato, as well as local government units that petitioned to be included.
The ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) through a plebiscite and the creation of BAR would increase investments in the region, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said.
“Given that the BOL provides a lot of opportunities to increase the budget for BAR, we expect to see more programs and infrastructure projects in the region,” Pernia said.
An estimated PHP70 billion for the fiscal year of 2019 alone will be provided by the national government as assistance to the region. This does not yet include compensation for the members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, benefits and entitlements of affected ARMM regional government employees, disposition of personnel and assets, initial funding to carry out requirements of the transition, and additional development programs and projects subsidized by the national government.
Pernial underscored the planned major infrastructure projects in the region amounting to PHP22.15 billion for 2019 alone and PHP40.85 billion for 2017-2022, based on the Public Investment Program, as of September 2018.
“Connectivity and social infrastructure should be the primary concern of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and the new leaders of the BAR to address pressing issues, most importantly access to basic services,” Pernia said.
As part of the creation of the new region, the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council will be established to serve as the planning, monitoring, and coordinating agency for all development plans, programs, and projects of the Bangsamoro government. A representative of the Bangsamoro government will also sit as a member of the NEDA Board.
Pernia said that with the new Bangsamoro government vested with powers over political and fiscal matters, the public financial management and delivery of services in the region would improve.
“NEDA also acknowledges that the plebiscite is a historic moment for Mindanao. The agency looks forward to the success of this initiative to further this administration’s thrust of inclusive development established on a strong foundation of peace and security,” Pernia added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059744
The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR) would open up high growth prospects for the area and the rest of the country, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said.
The first part of the plebiscite in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City took place on January 21. It will be followed by another plebiscite on February 6 in Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City, and North Cotabato, as well as local government units that petitioned to be included.
The ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) through a plebiscite and the creation of BAR would increase investments in the region, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said.
“Given that the BOL provides a lot of opportunities to increase the budget for BAR, we expect to see more programs and infrastructure projects in the region,” Pernia said.
An estimated PHP70 billion for the fiscal year of 2019 alone will be provided by the national government as assistance to the region. This does not yet include compensation for the members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, benefits and entitlements of affected ARMM regional government employees, disposition of personnel and assets, initial funding to carry out requirements of the transition, and additional development programs and projects subsidized by the national government.
Pernial underscored the planned major infrastructure projects in the region amounting to PHP22.15 billion for 2019 alone and PHP40.85 billion for 2017-2022, based on the Public Investment Program, as of September 2018.
“Connectivity and social infrastructure should be the primary concern of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and the new leaders of the BAR to address pressing issues, most importantly access to basic services,” Pernia said.
As part of the creation of the new region, the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council will be established to serve as the planning, monitoring, and coordinating agency for all development plans, programs, and projects of the Bangsamoro government. A representative of the Bangsamoro government will also sit as a member of the NEDA Board.
Pernia said that with the new Bangsamoro government vested with powers over political and fiscal matters, the public financial management and delivery of services in the region would improve.
“NEDA also acknowledges that the plebiscite is a historic moment for Mindanao. The agency looks forward to the success of this initiative to further this administration’s thrust of inclusive development established on a strong foundation of peace and security,” Pernia added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059744
Mindanao enters age of peace, progress with 'yes' for BOL
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22, 2019): Mindanao enters age of peace, progress with 'yes' for BOL
Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said Tuesday the "overwhelming affirmative votes" for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) shows that Mindanao is finally shedding its history of conflict and entering an age of peace and progress.
In his privilege speech, Zubiri cited the latest partial and unofficial quick count of the Bangsamoro Free Election Movement (BFEM), a Commission on Elections (Comelec)-accredited citizen's arm in the conduct of the BOL plebiscite, showing that the "yes" vote has garnered a total of 657,113 votes as compared to 49,304 "no" votes in areas of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
This means that the "yes" vote is 93 percent of the total votes cast, while the "no" vote is at 7 percent.
"Ikinagagalak ko pong ibalita na ang pinaghirapan natin sa Kongreso, lalu na dito sa Senado, na Bangsamoro Organic Law, ay sinagot po ng malakas at umaapaw na 'yes' vote ng ating mga kapatid na Muslim at Kristiyano sa Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (I am delighted to report to you that our hard work here in Congress, especially the Senate, for the Bangsamoro Organic Law paid off with a resounding and overwhelming 'yes' vote from our Muslim and Christian brothers and sisters in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao)," Zubiri said.
"I am overjoyed to hear this development. Today, with the overwhelming affirmative votes for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, we are finally seeing Mindanao shed its history of conflict and enter an age of peace and progress," he added.
Zubiri noted that the voter turnout is conservatively estimated at 70 percent, which he said, is the highest voter turnout among the 1989, 2001 and 2019 plebiscites for the Organic Law in ARMM.
"We have been anticipating this 'yes' vote for the Bangsamoro Organic Law in ARMM, and we are happy to see it coming into reality. Today, we witnessed an exceptionally high voter turnout of at least 70 percent of registered voters, and for that, I congratulate the Bangsamoro Transition Commission and the Comelec for their serious efforts at intensive dissemination of information in all affected political units and sectoral organizations," he said.
The senator said the BOL will put an end to the cycle of war and destruction that Muslim Mindanao has suffered for more than a hundred years.
"We want the whole of Mindanao, both Muslim and non-Muslim areas, to be in step with the rest of the Philippines and attain prosperity and liberties to the extent that they can implement their aspirations with the help of the national government and within the bounds of our Constitution," he said.
"Indeed, it is a new dawn of just and dignified peace in Mindanao. A new dawn of prosperity and economic development, a new era of transparent and accountable governance. And I am thankful that we in the Senate, once again stood, on the right side of history," he added.
On Monday, the Comelec held the first plebiscite on the ratification of the BOL for residents of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato City, and Isabela City.
Another plebiscite will be held on February 6 in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan in the province of North Cotabato; and the 28 barangays to be included in the region.
The BOL (Republic Act No. 11054), considered one of the administration’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to establish a new Bangsamoro political entity to replace the ARMM.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059735
Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said Tuesday the "overwhelming affirmative votes" for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) shows that Mindanao is finally shedding its history of conflict and entering an age of peace and progress.
In his privilege speech, Zubiri cited the latest partial and unofficial quick count of the Bangsamoro Free Election Movement (BFEM), a Commission on Elections (Comelec)-accredited citizen's arm in the conduct of the BOL plebiscite, showing that the "yes" vote has garnered a total of 657,113 votes as compared to 49,304 "no" votes in areas of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
This means that the "yes" vote is 93 percent of the total votes cast, while the "no" vote is at 7 percent.
"Ikinagagalak ko pong ibalita na ang pinaghirapan natin sa Kongreso, lalu na dito sa Senado, na Bangsamoro Organic Law, ay sinagot po ng malakas at umaapaw na 'yes' vote ng ating mga kapatid na Muslim at Kristiyano sa Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (I am delighted to report to you that our hard work here in Congress, especially the Senate, for the Bangsamoro Organic Law paid off with a resounding and overwhelming 'yes' vote from our Muslim and Christian brothers and sisters in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao)," Zubiri said.
"I am overjoyed to hear this development. Today, with the overwhelming affirmative votes for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, we are finally seeing Mindanao shed its history of conflict and enter an age of peace and progress," he added.
Zubiri noted that the voter turnout is conservatively estimated at 70 percent, which he said, is the highest voter turnout among the 1989, 2001 and 2019 plebiscites for the Organic Law in ARMM.
"We have been anticipating this 'yes' vote for the Bangsamoro Organic Law in ARMM, and we are happy to see it coming into reality. Today, we witnessed an exceptionally high voter turnout of at least 70 percent of registered voters, and for that, I congratulate the Bangsamoro Transition Commission and the Comelec for their serious efforts at intensive dissemination of information in all affected political units and sectoral organizations," he said.
The senator said the BOL will put an end to the cycle of war and destruction that Muslim Mindanao has suffered for more than a hundred years.
"We want the whole of Mindanao, both Muslim and non-Muslim areas, to be in step with the rest of the Philippines and attain prosperity and liberties to the extent that they can implement their aspirations with the help of the national government and within the bounds of our Constitution," he said.
"Indeed, it is a new dawn of just and dignified peace in Mindanao. A new dawn of prosperity and economic development, a new era of transparent and accountable governance. And I am thankful that we in the Senate, once again stood, on the right side of history," he added.
On Monday, the Comelec held the first plebiscite on the ratification of the BOL for residents of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato City, and Isabela City.
Another plebiscite will be held on February 6 in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan in the province of North Cotabato; and the 28 barangays to be included in the region.
The BOL (Republic Act No. 11054), considered one of the administration’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to establish a new Bangsamoro political entity to replace the ARMM.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059735
BOL plebiscite proof of PRRD’s commitment on signed pacts: OPAPP
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): BOL plebiscite proof of PRRD’s commitment on signed pacts: OPAPP
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said Tuesday the conduct of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite is proof that President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s administration is committed to implement “signed agreements” with the Moro people.
"Ultimately, we all aspire for a peaceful Mindanao. The conduct of the plebiscite is also a manifestation that the government, under the Duterte administration, is sincere in implementing all its signed agreements with the Moro fronts," Galvez said in a statement.
Galvez said that the President campaigned hard for the BOL's ratification and called on everyone to respect the outcome of the polls.
"Now that the people have spoken, we should respect the outcome of the plebiscite. It is now time for us to mend the broken relationships as a result of the division created during the campaign period. We campaign, we accept the result, and we move on. That is how democracy works," he said.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will begin on Wednesday the canvassing of votes in the areas where the plebiscite was held on Monday.
The BOL, previously known as the Bangsamoro Basic Law and considered as one of Duterte’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to give the Moro people basic legal tools to chart their own destiny within the country’s Constitutional framework.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059700
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said Tuesday the conduct of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite is proof that President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s administration is committed to implement “signed agreements” with the Moro people.
"Ultimately, we all aspire for a peaceful Mindanao. The conduct of the plebiscite is also a manifestation that the government, under the Duterte administration, is sincere in implementing all its signed agreements with the Moro fronts," Galvez said in a statement.
Galvez said that the President campaigned hard for the BOL's ratification and called on everyone to respect the outcome of the polls.
"Now that the people have spoken, we should respect the outcome of the plebiscite. It is now time for us to mend the broken relationships as a result of the division created during the campaign period. We campaign, we accept the result, and we move on. That is how democracy works," he said.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will begin on Wednesday the canvassing of votes in the areas where the plebiscite was held on Monday.
The BOL, previously known as the Bangsamoro Basic Law and considered as one of Duterte’s biggest legislative achievements, seeks to give the Moro people basic legal tools to chart their own destiny within the country’s Constitutional framework.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059700
No need for communism to have good land reform program: PRRD
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): No need for communism to have good land reform program: PRRD
Communist ideology is not needed to implement genuine land reform program in the country, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said Tuesday.
"To date, I have distributed something like 6,000 titles. You do not have to be a communist to have a good, true blue land reform program," Duterte said in a speech at the Annual Assembly of Provincial Union of Leaders against Illegality (PULI) in Lucena City, Quezon.
The President said the communist ideology is "over and done with" as countries all over the world are adopting democracy.
"Iyan sinasabi ko sa komunista eh (that's what I'm telling communists). You have jeopardized, caused sorrow and misery to the country fighting for a lost cause. Wala na ‘yang ideolohiya ng komunista (Communist ideology is no longer there). It’s over and done with," he said.
Duterte said communists will never gain control of the Philippines.
"Mga tao magpakamatay at pumatay ng kapwa nila Pilipino na walang kasalanan. Basta na lang patayin kasi hindi magbigay ng taxation. Susunugin ‘yung hindi iyo (Filipinos die and kill innocent countrymen just because they cannot give tax. Communists commit arson.) And for what? For 52 years. Baka akala ninyo makuha ninyo ang gobyerno (Maybe you're thinking you can get control of the government). Not in a million years. Hindi nga ninyo mahawakan isang barangay (You can't even gain control of one village)," he said.
Duterte urged members of the rebel group Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to surrender and return to the government's fold and promised them livelihood programs if they do so.
"Mag-surrender kayo (You surrender). I will guarantee you -- I will build a house for you here. Maghanap ako. Kaagad, magpagawa ako sa NHA [National Housing Authority] (I'll find a place and immediately ask the NHA to build houses). Then I will pay you tapos magtayo ako dito ng TESDA [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority] (and order a TESDA center to be established)," he said.
The CPP-NPA, in previous reports, has been allegedly tagged in cases of extortion, mass murder, and violation of indigenous people's rights.
The US State Department and the European Union have both tagged the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059751
Communist ideology is not needed to implement genuine land reform program in the country, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said Tuesday.
"To date, I have distributed something like 6,000 titles. You do not have to be a communist to have a good, true blue land reform program," Duterte said in a speech at the Annual Assembly of Provincial Union of Leaders against Illegality (PULI) in Lucena City, Quezon.
The President said the communist ideology is "over and done with" as countries all over the world are adopting democracy.
"Iyan sinasabi ko sa komunista eh (that's what I'm telling communists). You have jeopardized, caused sorrow and misery to the country fighting for a lost cause. Wala na ‘yang ideolohiya ng komunista (Communist ideology is no longer there). It’s over and done with," he said.
Duterte said communists will never gain control of the Philippines.
"Mga tao magpakamatay at pumatay ng kapwa nila Pilipino na walang kasalanan. Basta na lang patayin kasi hindi magbigay ng taxation. Susunugin ‘yung hindi iyo (Filipinos die and kill innocent countrymen just because they cannot give tax. Communists commit arson.) And for what? For 52 years. Baka akala ninyo makuha ninyo ang gobyerno (Maybe you're thinking you can get control of the government). Not in a million years. Hindi nga ninyo mahawakan isang barangay (You can't even gain control of one village)," he said.
Duterte urged members of the rebel group Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to surrender and return to the government's fold and promised them livelihood programs if they do so.
"Mag-surrender kayo (You surrender). I will guarantee you -- I will build a house for you here. Maghanap ako. Kaagad, magpagawa ako sa NHA [National Housing Authority] (I'll find a place and immediately ask the NHA to build houses). Then I will pay you tapos magtayo ako dito ng TESDA [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority] (and order a TESDA center to be established)," he said.
The CPP-NPA, in previous reports, has been allegedly tagged in cases of extortion, mass murder, and violation of indigenous people's rights.
The US State Department and the European Union have both tagged the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059751
AFP probes Reds 'immersion' activities
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): AFP probes Reds 'immersion' activities
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is now investigating reports that communist rebels are allegedly recruiting college students and taking them into jungles for so-called immersion activities.
Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, made this response Wednesday when asked if the military is aware of such activities by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in the campuses.
"That has been happening since time immemorial. The CPP-NPA-NDF recruiters look at students as a rich source of cadres and they have long been active in recruiting them," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
The NPA, the armed wing of the CPP, is listed as a terrorist organization in the United States and European Union.
To suppress this, Detoyato bared that AFP field units are actively coordinating with school authorities, parents and students in face-to-face dialogues and symposiums to expose these tricks of the communist rebels.
He added the real goal of the rebels is to deceive students into joining them through holding rallies in the cities, immersion in the rural communities and eventually recruiting them to join the armed group.
"We are not only investigating this, we are taking part in the prevention of this. DepEd (Department of Education), the PNP (Philippine National Police) and LGUs (local government units) also have efforts in the prevention of this CPP-NPA-NDF modus operandi of recruitment and exploitation of students," the AFP official added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059779
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is now investigating reports that communist rebels are allegedly recruiting college students and taking them into jungles for so-called immersion activities.
Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief, made this response Wednesday when asked if the military is aware of such activities by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in the campuses.
"That has been happening since time immemorial. The CPP-NPA-NDF recruiters look at students as a rich source of cadres and they have long been active in recruiting them," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
The NPA, the armed wing of the CPP, is listed as a terrorist organization in the United States and European Union.
To suppress this, Detoyato bared that AFP field units are actively coordinating with school authorities, parents and students in face-to-face dialogues and symposiums to expose these tricks of the communist rebels.
He added the real goal of the rebels is to deceive students into joining them through holding rallies in the cities, immersion in the rural communities and eventually recruiting them to join the armed group.
"We are not only investigating this, we are taking part in the prevention of this. DepEd (Department of Education), the PNP (Philippine National Police) and LGUs (local government units) also have efforts in the prevention of this CPP-NPA-NDF modus operandi of recruitment and exploitation of students," the AFP official added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059779
Palace pleased with ‘yes’ votes win in Cotabato City
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): Palace pleased with ‘yes’ votes win in Cotabato City
Malacañang on Wednesday said it is pleased with the result of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite in Cotabato City after majority of the voters opted to join the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Consistent with the position of the President (Rodrigo R. Duterte) for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), we are pleased that the “yes vote” has prevailed in Cotabato City, based on the complete but unofficial tally of the Commission on Elections (Comelec),” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo encouraged the city residents, particularly those who voted against the BOL, to respect the decision of the majority.
"The sovereign people have spoken, those who are against the BOL must yield to the rule of the majority,” Panelo said.
“All the major players, pro and con, must now come together and work together for the success of the common aspiration of the Bangsamoro people, which is to have a progressive and peaceful Mindanao," he added.
Panelo said the result of the plebiscite in Cotabato City must be upheld if the reported irregularity, fraud and intimidation “do not affect the credibility of the elections”.
"As in all elections and plebiscites, there will be claims of irregularity, fraud and intimidation,” said Panelo, also Chief Presidential Legal Counsel.
“If they do not affect the credibility of the elections and alter the result thereof, while those responsible for the undemocratic methods will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, the result of the plebiscite must be upheld despite discordant voices," he added.
Based on the complete but unofficial tally of the Comelec in Cotabato City, the BOL received 36,682 ‘yes’ votes and 29,994 ‘no’ votes during last Monday’s plebiscite.
A discrepancy, however, was noticed as the certificate of canvass showed that of the total 71,963 registered voters, only 39,027 actually voted in 373 precincts (an updated certificate of canvass puts the total number of polling precincts to 374).
When tallied, the "yes" and "no" votes recorded a total of 61,676 votes, or a difference of 22,649 votes against the number of actual voters.
Aside from Cotabato City, the plebiscite for the ratification of BOL was also conducted in Isabela City and five provinces of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao -- Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
Another plebiscite is scheduled on Feb. 6 in six towns in Lanao del Norte and in 67 villages in North Cotabato.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059834
Malacañang on Wednesday said it is pleased with the result of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite in Cotabato City after majority of the voters opted to join the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Consistent with the position of the President (Rodrigo R. Duterte) for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), we are pleased that the “yes vote” has prevailed in Cotabato City, based on the complete but unofficial tally of the Commission on Elections (Comelec),” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo encouraged the city residents, particularly those who voted against the BOL, to respect the decision of the majority.
"The sovereign people have spoken, those who are against the BOL must yield to the rule of the majority,” Panelo said.
“All the major players, pro and con, must now come together and work together for the success of the common aspiration of the Bangsamoro people, which is to have a progressive and peaceful Mindanao," he added.
Panelo said the result of the plebiscite in Cotabato City must be upheld if the reported irregularity, fraud and intimidation “do not affect the credibility of the elections”.
"As in all elections and plebiscites, there will be claims of irregularity, fraud and intimidation,” said Panelo, also Chief Presidential Legal Counsel.
“If they do not affect the credibility of the elections and alter the result thereof, while those responsible for the undemocratic methods will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, the result of the plebiscite must be upheld despite discordant voices," he added.
Based on the complete but unofficial tally of the Comelec in Cotabato City, the BOL received 36,682 ‘yes’ votes and 29,994 ‘no’ votes during last Monday’s plebiscite.
A discrepancy, however, was noticed as the certificate of canvass showed that of the total 71,963 registered voters, only 39,027 actually voted in 373 precincts (an updated certificate of canvass puts the total number of polling precincts to 374).
When tallied, the "yes" and "no" votes recorded a total of 61,676 votes, or a difference of 22,649 votes against the number of actual voters.
Aside from Cotabato City, the plebiscite for the ratification of BOL was also conducted in Isabela City and five provinces of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao -- Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
Another plebiscite is scheduled on Feb. 6 in six towns in Lanao del Norte and in 67 villages in North Cotabato.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059834
Troops to be more concentrated in 2nd BOL poll areas
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): Troops to be more concentrated in 2nd BOL poll areas
Since the second Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite will be held in a smaller area compared to the first plebiscite, it would be easier to concentrate the troops.
This was bared by Col. Noel Detoyato, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, when asked Wednesday if there are changes in the military’s overall plan to secure the second BOL polls next month.
"The area for (the) February 6 (polls) is smaller, and it's scattered, especially in (North) Cotabato towns where only barangays will be voting. Security operations and deployment will be adjusted accordingly to address the prevailing security needs in the specified areas," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
On Monday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) conducted the plebiscite for the ratification of the BOL, which seeks to create the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The provinces included are Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi; as well as Cotabato City; and Isabela City.
The February 6 BOL plebiscite will be in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan, and 28 barangays in the province of North Cotabato.
"Since it (area) will be relatively smaller, concentration of troops will be higher. AFP troops are pre-deployed so there will be minimal movement to secure the plebiscite on February 6," Detoyato added.
The military allocated more than 10,000 troops and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscites, along with the Philippine National Police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059772
Since the second Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite will be held in a smaller area compared to the first plebiscite, it would be easier to concentrate the troops.
This was bared by Col. Noel Detoyato, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, when asked Wednesday if there are changes in the military’s overall plan to secure the second BOL polls next month.
"The area for (the) February 6 (polls) is smaller, and it's scattered, especially in (North) Cotabato towns where only barangays will be voting. Security operations and deployment will be adjusted accordingly to address the prevailing security needs in the specified areas," Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
On Monday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) conducted the plebiscite for the ratification of the BOL, which seeks to create the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The provinces included are Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi; as well as Cotabato City; and Isabela City.
The February 6 BOL plebiscite will be in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan, and 28 barangays in the province of North Cotabato.
"Since it (area) will be relatively smaller, concentration of troops will be higher. AFP troops are pre-deployed so there will be minimal movement to secure the plebiscite on February 6," Detoyato added.
The military allocated more than 10,000 troops and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscites, along with the Philippine National Police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059772
SC orders SolGen to file DND reports on ML in Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23, 2019): SC orders SolGen to file DND reports on ML in Mindanao
The Supreme Court (SC) ordered state lawyers representing the military to submit copies of its periodic reports on the implementation of martial law in Mindanao.
In its resolution dated Jan. 22, the High Court ordered the Office of the Solicitor General "to submit no later than 12 noon on Friday, January 25, 2019, the Department of National Defense's Monthly/Periodic Reports addressed to the Congress on the implementation of Martial Law from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 which involve highly sensitive and confidential matters affecting the security of the State."
The court explained that members of the Court will then "make a preliminary assessment whether or not the said reports may only be appropriately discussed and deliberated upon in an executive session".
Meanwhile, a fourth group purportedly representing indigenous groups on Wednesday filed a petition challenging the extension of martial law in Mindanao.
In a 13-page petition, the petitioners, through the Free legal Assistance Group (FLAG) led by human rights lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno also asked the Court to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) not only to enjoin the implementation of Proclamation 216 but also to direct the police and the military to cease and desist from continuing with its alleged militarization of areas where IP schools are located, the forcible closure of IP schools, and the harassment of teachers and students.
The High Court is set to hold an oral argument on the three other consolidated petitions that were filed earlier by various groups also seeking to declare as unconstitutional the third extension of martial law in Mindanao on January 29.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059829
The Supreme Court (SC) ordered state lawyers representing the military to submit copies of its periodic reports on the implementation of martial law in Mindanao.
In its resolution dated Jan. 22, the High Court ordered the Office of the Solicitor General "to submit no later than 12 noon on Friday, January 25, 2019, the Department of National Defense's Monthly/Periodic Reports addressed to the Congress on the implementation of Martial Law from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 which involve highly sensitive and confidential matters affecting the security of the State."
The court explained that members of the Court will then "make a preliminary assessment whether or not the said reports may only be appropriately discussed and deliberated upon in an executive session".
Meanwhile, a fourth group purportedly representing indigenous groups on Wednesday filed a petition challenging the extension of martial law in Mindanao.
In a 13-page petition, the petitioners, through the Free legal Assistance Group (FLAG) led by human rights lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno also asked the Court to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) not only to enjoin the implementation of Proclamation 216 but also to direct the police and the military to cease and desist from continuing with its alleged militarization of areas where IP schools are located, the forcible closure of IP schools, and the harassment of teachers and students.
The High Court is set to hold an oral argument on the three other consolidated petitions that were filed earlier by various groups also seeking to declare as unconstitutional the third extension of martial law in Mindanao on January 29.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059829
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Specter of conflict shadows Philippine vote for Muslim autonomy
From the Nikkei Asian Review (Jan 20, 2019): Specter of conflict shadows Philippine vote for Muslim autonomy
Peace not guaranteed even if Bangasomoro region gains more powers in referendum
The Philippine government recently extended martial law in Mindanao in response to the threat from Islamist insurgents that tried to capture Marawi city in May last year. © Reuters
A referendum to create a Muslim region with greater autonomy in the conflict-ridden southern Philippine islands comes with no guarantee of peace.
About 2 million voters in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and two cities will vote on Monday on whether to establish a region with more than 50 exclusive powers, including a Sharia-based justice system and Islamic financing. A separate plebiscite for adjacent towns has been scheduled on Feb. 6.
Top officials of the 30,000 strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front are expected to head the government of the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after the anticipated "yes" vote. The rebel group now sees a chance for peace after decades of conflict that have claimed around 100,000 lives, displaced millions and left large areas impoverished.
"We are very confident that the yes votes will prevail overwhelmingly," Ghazali Jaafar, the front's vice chairman for political affairs, told the Nikkei Asian Review. "Let us forget our differences. This is a very historic opportunity for all of us to make change."
But a former peace adviser warned the Moro rebels and the national government that complacency could derail peace efforts.
Teresita Quintos-Deles, the presidential adviser who brokered a final peace agreement with the rebels in 2014, said President Rodrigo Duterte should be able to immediately appoint an 80-person transition authority to avoid a power vacuum. This, Deles said, depends on swiftly appointing the region's leader.
"Unfortunately, if you look at the track record of the president signing appointment papers, he takes time, especially if he doesn't know the person," she said.
The law's ratification would dissolve the existing regional government.and the transition authority would be formed to lead Bangsamoro until the 2022 elections. Otherwise, a caretaker government with vague powers will govern the region.
Deles called that prospect "frightening."
Another concern is the rounding up of firearms. Under the peace deal, the rebels were to have decommissioned a third of their weapons once voters have approved the new government.
Splinter groups who have broken away from the Moro rebels could become the biggest spoilers of the peace process. The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, for instance, said it will continue its armed struggle and will not take part in the plebiscite. Other militants, with support from foreign extremists, want to turn the island into an Islamic caliphate.
In May 2017, Islamic State-inspired militants tried to establish an East Asia caliphate in Marawi City, leaving the predominantly Muslim city in ruins. More than a thousand people died during the five-month siege before the city was recaptured by government troops.
The Philippine Congress in December backed Duterte's demand to extend martial law by another year in Mindanao -- the third extension since Duterte imposed martial law on the island after the defeat of the militants in Marawi.
Moro's Jaafar said the front will reach out to other groups to persuade them to join the peace process.
"I believe we have to have dialogue with them to convince them to join the Bangsamoro government," Jaafar said.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Specter-of-conflict-shadows-Philippine-vote-for-Muslim-autonomy
Peace not guaranteed even if Bangasomoro region gains more powers in referendum
The Philippine government recently extended martial law in Mindanao in response to the threat from Islamist insurgents that tried to capture Marawi city in May last year. © Reuters
A referendum to create a Muslim region with greater autonomy in the conflict-ridden southern Philippine islands comes with no guarantee of peace.
About 2 million voters in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and two cities will vote on Monday on whether to establish a region with more than 50 exclusive powers, including a Sharia-based justice system and Islamic financing. A separate plebiscite for adjacent towns has been scheduled on Feb. 6.
Top officials of the 30,000 strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front are expected to head the government of the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after the anticipated "yes" vote. The rebel group now sees a chance for peace after decades of conflict that have claimed around 100,000 lives, displaced millions and left large areas impoverished.
"We are very confident that the yes votes will prevail overwhelmingly," Ghazali Jaafar, the front's vice chairman for political affairs, told the Nikkei Asian Review. "Let us forget our differences. This is a very historic opportunity for all of us to make change."
But a former peace adviser warned the Moro rebels and the national government that complacency could derail peace efforts.
Teresita Quintos-Deles, the presidential adviser who brokered a final peace agreement with the rebels in 2014, said President Rodrigo Duterte should be able to immediately appoint an 80-person transition authority to avoid a power vacuum. This, Deles said, depends on swiftly appointing the region's leader.
"Unfortunately, if you look at the track record of the president signing appointment papers, he takes time, especially if he doesn't know the person," she said.
The law's ratification would dissolve the existing regional government.and the transition authority would be formed to lead Bangsamoro until the 2022 elections. Otherwise, a caretaker government with vague powers will govern the region.
Deles called that prospect "frightening."
Another concern is the rounding up of firearms. Under the peace deal, the rebels were to have decommissioned a third of their weapons once voters have approved the new government.
Splinter groups who have broken away from the Moro rebels could become the biggest spoilers of the peace process. The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, for instance, said it will continue its armed struggle and will not take part in the plebiscite. Other militants, with support from foreign extremists, want to turn the island into an Islamic caliphate.
In May 2017, Islamic State-inspired militants tried to establish an East Asia caliphate in Marawi City, leaving the predominantly Muslim city in ruins. More than a thousand people died during the five-month siege before the city was recaptured by government troops.
The Philippine Congress in December backed Duterte's demand to extend martial law by another year in Mindanao -- the third extension since Duterte imposed martial law on the island after the defeat of the militants in Marawi.
Moro's Jaafar said the front will reach out to other groups to persuade them to join the peace process.
"I believe we have to have dialogue with them to convince them to join the Bangsamoro government," Jaafar said.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Specter-of-conflict-shadows-Philippine-vote-for-Muslim-autonomy
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