Philippines doubles down on Ayungin after China claims ‘illegal’ activities

From Rappler (Aug 8, 2023): Philippines doubles down on Ayungin after China claims ‘illegal’ activities (By BEA CUPIN)

(2nd UPDATE) The Department of Foreign Affairs says resupply missions and repairs of the grounded wartime ship in Ayungin Shoal ‘are part of regular operations in line with domestic and international law’

MANILA, Philippines – There’s no debate over the Philippine missions to Ayungin Shoal, Manila reminded Beijing on Tuesday, August 8, after the Asian superpower claimed “illegal” actions in the South China Sea.

“The Philippines’ resupply missions and repair of BRP Sierra Madre are part of regular operations in line with domestic and international law, and ensures safety and wellbeing of our stationed personnel,” said Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson Teresita Daza in a statement.

China’s foreign ministry spokesperson claimed – albeit erroneously – in a statement late Monday, August 7, that the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War 2-era grounded battle ship that serves as the Philippine outpost in the area, had been “illegally landed” in Ayungin Shoal. Beijing refers to the area as Ren’ai Jiao.

“China immediately made serious démarches to the Philippines, demanding the removal of the vessel. The Philippines promised several times to tow it away, but has yet to act,” China claimed.

The two foreign ministries exchanged statements days after Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels blocked, harassed, and fired water cannons against Philippine vessels en route to Ayungin Shoal to bring supplies for soldiers stationed in the BRP Sierra Madre on August 5.

China characterized its tailing and use of water cannons on Philippine ships as “professional, restrained and beyond reproach.”

The Philippines though considers these otherwise. Manila said that in blocking Philippine ships from reaching Ayungin Shoal, China “impeded the Philippines’ legitimate and regular activities in its own exclusive economic zone and were in violation” of international law.

Manila cites four international doctrines in asserting the legality of its activities in Ayungin: the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea), the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC (Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea).
Historic 2016 win

The 2016 arbitral ruling was a historic win for the Philippines, but China has refused to recognize the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).

That decision quashed the Asian superpower’s overarching claim almost of the South China Sea. Other countries in the region are contesting China’s claim in the vast waterway.

In the end, only one of the vessels chartered by the Philippine military made it to BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippine government is still figuring out how the rest of the intended supplies shipment will reach Marines stationed in the West Philippine Sea.

The BRP Sierra Madre is a Philippine Navy ship that was purposefully grounded in 1999 to serve as the military’s outpost in Ayungin Shoal “in response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef in 1995,” said Daza.

Ayungin Shoal is 105 nautical miles west of Palawan.

“The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws. Moreover, the Philippine station on Ayungin Shoal was deployed in 1999, years ahead of the conclusion in 2002 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), and is therefore not a violation of the DOC,” she added.

The day prior, China called on the Philippines to remove the BRP Sierra Madre. In response, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya told reporters in Manila: “We will not abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to the Ayungin Shoal.”
China vs the US, too

As China accused the Philippines of “illegal” acts in the West Philippine Sea, the Asian superpower also lambasted the United States for supposedly attacking their “legitimate and lawful actions at sea aimed at safeguarding its rights and enforcing the law.”

China accused the US of “inciting and supporting the Philippines attempts to repair and reinforce” the BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippines has, as the DFA confirmed, been repairing the ship.

Beijing also berated the US for supporting the Philippines’ 2016 win, belittling it as a “pure political drama staged in the name of the law with the US pulling strings behind the scenes.” The ruling was made by the PCA at The Hague and is supported not just by the US, but by several countries as well.

“South China Sea is not a ‘safari park’ for countries outside the region to make mischief and sow discord,” said China’s embassy in Manila in a statement on Tuesday.
Control

Security experts say China’s actions around the atoll point to one thing – Beijing wants to take control of Second Thomas Shoal, also known in China as Renai Reef, and Ayungin in Manila.

“We must reestablish sea control around the shoal because if we don’t control it, our resupply is vulnerable to their coercive tactics,” said Rommel Ong, a maritime security expert and retired vice commander of the Philippine Navy.

It was not the first time the Chinese coast guard has directed a water cannon at a Manila boat, having done the same in November 2021.

No one was hurt during the August 5 incident, but Philippine officials said on Monday one of Manila’s two boats did not complete its resupply mission. Both were back in a Philippine port.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Taiwan and the Philippines.

Both Ong and Collin Koh, a security fellow at Singapore’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, believe China would think twice about using outright force to occupy the shoal lest it triggers a 1951 US-Philippines mutual defense treaty.

“There’s probably no question about whether China has the means to up the ante here, but more about its willingness over those political risks,” said Koh.

Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the Philippines National Security Council, urged China “not to escalate matters” and put lives at risk.

Japan and France, through their embassies in Manila, have expressed concern over China’s recent actions and repeated their support for a 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing’s expansive South China Sea claims.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Taiwan and the Philippines.

Cagayan de Oro City, 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez has called on Marcos to take “more drastic actions” against China’s “harassment and bullying tactic,” including downgrading Manila’s embassy in Beijing.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/dfa-doubles-down-ayungin-shoal-after-china-claim-illegal-activities-august-2023/

China: PH promised to remove ship in Ayungin; PH official: ‘What are they talking about?’

Posted to Panay News (Aug 9, 2023): China: PH promised to remove ship in Ayungin; PH official: ‘What are they talking about?’

A China Coast Guard ship (upper left) is seen near the Philippine Navy’s BRP Sierra Madre as the Philippine Coast Guard conducts aerial surveillance at Sabina and Ayungin Shoals in the West Philippine Sea on February 21, 2023. INQUIRER/NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

China is claiming that the Philippines has promised to tow away the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal.

China’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on Monday evening that the Philippines made that promise “several times” but that the Philippines “has yet to act” on it.

It asserted anew that Ayungin Shoal, which it called Ren’ai Jiao, “has always been part of China’s Nansha Qundao.”

“In 1999, the Philippines sent a military vessel and deliberately ran it aground at Ren’ai Jiao, attempting to change the status quo of Ren’ai Jiao illegally. China immediately made serious démarches to the Philippines, demanding the removal of the vessel. The Philippines promised several times to tow it away, but has yet to act. Not only that, the Philippines sought to overhaul and reinforce the military vessel in order to permanently occupy Ren’ai Jiao,” it said.

China’s Foreign Ministry also addressed the recent incident at Ayungin Shoal where its coast guard fired water cannon at Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels escorting boats delivering supplies to Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel in the West Philippine Sea last August 5.

It asserted that the incident happened because PCG’s vessel disregarded China’s “repeated dissuasion and warning.”

“The Philippines sent two vessels that intruded into the adjacent waters of Ren’ai Jiao and tried to deliver the construction materials for overhauling and reinforcing the grounded military vessel. Such actions violated China’s sovereignty and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The China Coast Guard vessels stopped them in accordance with law and warned them off through appropriate law enforcement measures. Their maneuvers were professional, restrained and beyond reproach,” it said.

Further, China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the United States for “brazenly bolstering the Philippines as it infringes upon China’s sovereignty,” adding that the South China Sea arbitration was a “pure political drama” staged in the name of the law with the US pulling strings behind the scenes.

Responding to these claims, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said he, along with the country’s foreign affairs officials, has no idea what China is talking about.

“We have no idea what they are talking about. I have talked to our colleagues from the Department of Foreign Affairs, even the ones from the Department of National Defense from the previous administrations. There was no commitment, whatsoever, as far as the Philippines is concerned and there is no record of any such commitment,” Malaya said in an interview over ANC on Tuesday, August 8.

“There is no record of a meeting or an official record that the Philippines, in the past, committed to China that it will tow away the BRP Sierra Madre,” he stressed.

Ayungin Shoal is a low-tide elevation about 194 kilometers off Palawan province that is well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. (Charie Abarca © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/china-ph-promised-to-remove-ship-in-ayungin-ph-official-what-are-they-talking-about/

NPA assassinate ‘military informant’

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 9, 2023): NPA assassinate ‘military informant’ (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Several hours after an encounter that resulted in the death of a suspected member of the New People’s Army, five alleged NPA hitmen took revenge by killing a civilian they tagged as a military informant on August 5 at Purok Inarawis, Brgy Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Initial investigation conducted by the Moises Padilla police showed that the five suspects identified as Reynaldo and Marlo Catasio, Jesus Molena, Rolandi and Carmilito Juanites had dinner with their victim, Joemarie Benitez and his family, prior to the incident.

After having dinner with the family of the victim, the suspects, who are allegedly members of the NPA Special Partisan Unit, invited Benitez to go with them outside.

Based on the testimonies gathered by the police, Erlinda Benitez, the mother of the victim, said she heard four gunshots and then saw her son lying on the ground, while the suspects withdrew towards Sitio Agogolo in Brgy. Macagahay, Moises Padilla.

She also told the Moises Padilla police that her son was accused of being a military spy.

The liquidation of Benitez, a 28-year-old laborer, took place several hours after Army soldiers killed one of three suspected NPA rebels during an encounter in Sitio Cansimba, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla.

The three rebels encountered by 62nd Infantry Battalion soldiers were believed to be among the eight armed men fleeing from Army troopers they encountered in Brgy. Imelda, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Two firearms and a fragmentation grenade were among the war materials recovered by 62IB from the two encounter sites, aside from the remains of a slain rebel.*

https://visayandailystar.com/npa-assassinate-military-informant/

Slain rebel in Moises Padilla identified

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 9, 2023): Slain rebel in Moises Padilla identified (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

A suspected member of the New People’s Army who died in a gunbattle with Army soldiers on August 5 in Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, was identified by his family members, disclosed 1Lt. Mary Liza Joy De Guzman, Civil Military Operations officer of the 62nd Infantry Battalion.

The slain rebel was identified as Jonasio Enarsosa Blasco, alias Joe, a resident of the barangay.

De Guzman said that the family of Blasco was urging him to surrender. But he never listened to them, she added.

The Moises Padilla Task Force ELCAC (Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict) is now processing the burial requirements of Blasco, 56, of Sitio Tibobong, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, for the turnover of his cadaver to his family.

On the same day as the encounter, a civilian identified as Joemarie Benitez, who was accused as a military informant, was summarily executed by five members of the NPA Special Partisan Unit in the barangay, according to the Moises Padilla police.

Two days after the incident, the 62IB, in tandem with Local Task Force ELCAC, held a localized peace engagement with residents of Sitio Tibobong in the barangay, where Blasco was a resident prior to his death.

De Guzman said the populace were encouraged to help injured rebels avail of medical services being offered by the Philippine Army, as well as in availing the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government.

She added that the residents were also informed on the deception activities of the NPA and its legal fronts, as well as their modus operandi in recruiting the youth and farmers.*

https://visayandailystar.com/slain-rebel-in-moises-padilla-identified/

Korea, France express concern over latest Ayungin incident

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): Korea, France express concern over latest Ayungin incident (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

DANGEROUS MANEUVERS. A Chinese Coast Guard vessel uses a water cannon on a Philippine military-commissioned boat while en route to Ayungin Shoal to resupply Filipino troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre on the morning of Aug. 5, 2023. Several nations have expressed concern over the incident and reiterated their support for the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, which had invalidated China’s sweeping claims under the so-called nine-dash line. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Coast Guard)

MANILA – South Korea and France have expressed concern over the Chinese Coast Guard’s (CCG) use of water cannon against a Philippine military boat while on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal on Aug. 5.

In a statement on Tuesday, the South Korean Embassy in Manila called for a rules-based order in the South China Sea.

“On the recent use of water cannons against the Philippine Coast Guard vessels in the South China Sea, the ROK (Republic of Korea) Embassy in the Philippines is concerned about the actions that raise tensions in these waters,” it said.

“The embassy reaffirms its support for peace, stability, and rules-based order in the South China Sea, as an important international sea lane of communications, and for the freedom of navigation and overflight based on the principles of international law, including UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea),” it added.

The French Embassy in Manila, meanwhile, reiterated its support for the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, which had invalidated China’s sweeping claims under the so-called nine-dash line over the sea lane.

“France expresses its deep concern about the dangerous manoeuvres carried out by Chinese coastguard vessels in the South China Sea,” it said.

“It reiterates its support for international law and the UNCLOS, and recalls the decision handed down by the Court of Arbitration in 2016 concerning the South China Sea,” it added.

During the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ rotation and reprovision mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal, the CCG, People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and Chinese maritime militia vessels used aggressive maneuvers, including the use of a water cannon against Philippine supply boats and coast guard vessels.

While the incident was happening, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) sought Beijing through the “maritime communication mechanism” established between President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping “for several hours” but was unable to reach them.

In a press conference on Monday, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the incident “clearly” undermines efforts to enhance China-Philippine relations.

“[W]e hope that they do value the relations with the Philippines. But clearly this incident undermines efforts to strengthen mutual trust and confidence -- crucial elements in friendly relations among states, between our countries, and it does provide tension in our bilateral relations,” she said.

In a statement dated Aug. 8, the Chinese Foreign Ministry insisted that it has sovereignty over Ayungin Shoal and called on the Philippine government to “immediately tow away” BRP Sierra Madre.

Ayungin Shoal is located 105 nautical miles off Palawan and well within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone, as prescribed by UNCLOS, which China is a state party to.

The DFA has reiterated that as a low tide elevation, Ayungin Shoal can neither be the subject of a sovereignty claim nor is it capable of appropriation under international law -- a fact affirmed by the 2016 Arbitral Award, which is also based on UNCLOS.

“China cannot, therefore, lawfully exercise sovereignty over it,” it said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207358

House backs bigger defense spending to protect PH sovereignty

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): House backs bigger defense spending to protect PH sovereignty (By Jose Cielito Reganit)

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez (Photo courtesy of Speaker's office)

MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday said the House of Representatives supports the increased allocation for the defense sector under the proposed PHP5.768-trillion 2024 national budget to bolster the country’s capability in protecting its territorial integrity.

“Our commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of our citizens remains unwavering. As a nation, we must take proactive measures to enhance our defense capabilities and ensure that we have the necessary resources to effectively protect our sovereign rights,” Romualdez said in a statement.

Under the proposed 2024 budget, the allocation for the defense sector is PHP282.7 billion or 21.6 percent more compared to the PHP203.4 billion allocation under the 2023 budget.

According to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s budget message, this fund will support the “Land, Air, and Naval Forces Defense Programs” totaling PHP188.5 billion, as well as the UN Peacekeeping Mission, among others, to ensure domestic security.

“This allocation demonstrates our dedication to maintaining a strong and credible defense posture, one that sends a clear message that we will not compromise when it comes to safeguarding our national interests,” Romualdez said.

“We must remember that a strong defense is not merely a tool for confrontation, but a means to uphold peace, stability, and the rule of law,” he added.

He added that it is the duty of the entire government that the nation is adequately equipped to face any future challenges.

“By prioritizing our defense sector in the budget, we are making a commitment to our people, to our allies, and to the international community that reflects our unwavering resolve to protect our sovereignty and promote regional stability,” he said.

Romualdez earlier expressed his full support to Marcos’ decision to consult military leaders on how best to respond to the illegal use of water cannons by Chinese ships on Philippine Coast Guard and civilian vessels resupplying a platoon of Filipino soldiers stationed in Ayungin Shoal off Palawan.

“We support his position that we should continue to assert our sovereignty there and that we should defend every inch of our territory,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207343

Zubiri vows support for PNP modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): Zubiri vows support for PNP modernization (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

SUPPORT. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri (left) graces the celebration of the 122nd Police Service anniversary at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame on Tuesday (Aug. 8, 2023). Zubiri also pledged to support measures to allocate additional funds for the police force ahead of the deliberations for next year's national budget. (PNA photo by Lloyd Caliwan)

MANILA – Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday expressed his support for the passage of the bill for the modernization of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“I will support to pass the PNP modernization and restructuring act for this year together with Senator and former PNP chief Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa and we will try to pass as many measures as we can para maitapos natin yung pito o walong mga panukala (we can finish the seven or eight proposals) pending on his committee on how to strengthen the PNP,” Zubiri said in his speech during the 122nd Police Service anniversary in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Zubiri also pledged to support measures to allocate additional funds for the police force ahead of the deliberations for next year's national budget.

He also revealed plans for the establishment of a summer camp for the police force in his hometown -- the province of Bukidnon.

“(PNP chief) General (Benjamin) Acorda Jr. and I have a plan. Hopefully, this dream comes true. There is a large military reservation there in Bukidnon near Cagayan de Oro. What we are planning is to talk to the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and if it is okay with them, we will try to carve out a few hundred hectares to become a summer camp of the PNP and of the PNPA (Academy). We will work on that and I pledged my 100 percent support for funds while I am in the Senate. Let this be a legacy for the current leadership of the PNP,” Zubiri explained.

Zubiri also paid tribute to the rich history of the PNP and all its triumphs for the past 122 years -- from responding to the simplest forms of crime in the streets to neutralizing and arresting high-profile criminals and dangerous criminals.

He also praised the PNP for assisting in disaster relief and response efforts, especially in the wake of the recent calamities in the country.

Zubiri also credited the police force for effectively performing its mandate to preserve peace and order.

The senator also recognized General Acorda's and President Ferdinand R. Marcos's steps to fight criminality "reformation, rehabilitation and of course, apprehension of the major crime syndicates but through the rule of the law."

Acorda, meanwhile, said the top lawmaker's presence during the event is a powerful affirmation of the legislative body's recognition of the vital role played by the PNP in the progress of the nation.

He said the modernization bill and the other proposed legislations benefiting the PNP will help the police force to uphold the rule of law, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability and the aim is to enhance public trust, improve community relations, and create a safer and prosperous environment for Filipinos.

“In the presence of our distinguished Guest of Honor and Speaker, we stand united in our commitment to the 'Nagkakaisang Pulisya at Pamayanan' vision. We march forward in full support, guided by the torch of honor and duty, with the aspiration of our President Ferdinand Marcos Jr for a 'Bagong Pilipinas',” Acorda noted.

He also touted the PNP's significant strides to improve frontline police services resulting in the completion of 140 buildings and facilities, provincial offices, and other essential infrastructures.

“We also prioritized bolstering the organization's capabilities through our Capability Enhancement Program (CEP). Presently, we have 52.83 percent filled up on our mobility assets, 74.68 percent firepower, 28.43 percent for communication equipment, 24.61 percent for ISO/Terrorism tools, and 61.98 percent for investigative equipment,” he said.

Acorda added that the PNP has invested in Information and Communications Technology infrastructures through the S.M.A.R.T. (Secured, Mobile, Artificial Intelligence-driven, Real-time Technology) Policing Program aimed to enhance police services and provide fast and high-quality assistance to the public.

"In line with this objective, we have made the National Police Clearance (NPC) System more accessible to our fellow citizens, ensuring a more convenient process for obtaining it," he added.

The service is now available in 353 police stations, malls and commercial hubs and generated a total revenue of more than PHP309 million and successfully apprehended 557 wanted persons.

Acorda said the majority of the PNP offices have become ICT compliant, allowing them to streamline numerous internal processes which include optimizing recruitment and training procedures, improving day-to-day tasks, expediting investigations, crimes solutions and even facilitating the processing of retirement claims.

“Our commitment to leveraging technology enables us to provide better services and enhance public safety through the recently launched i-Report — a platform which enables citizens to report crimes in real-time through the DICT e-gov ph super app,” Acorda said.

The PNP chief also presented achievements of the force from July 2022 to June 2023 -- which include the arrest and surrender of 84,663 wanted individuals; the successful recovery and surrender of 50,106 loose firearms; neutralization of 367 criminal gangs leading to the surrender and arrest of its 2,355 members; and confiscation of estimated PHP16.9 billion pesos worth of illegal drugs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207354

Another resupply mission eyed for PH troops in Ayungin Shoal

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): Another resupply mission eyed for PH troops in Ayungin Shoal (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar (PNA file photo)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is set to conduct another resupply mission for Filipino troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre (LST-57) which is permanently stationed in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"Kalahati lang po kasi yung na-unload na supply so kulang po yun (Only half of the regular supply was unloaded that’s why it’s not enough)," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a radio interview Tuesday.

The harassment from the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and militia vessels on Aug. 5 has prevented one of the two chartered vessels from fulfilling its resupply mission.

Aguilar said he is not privy on how long these supplies will last but noted that there is a need to resupply these military personnel within the next two weeks.

"I'm not sure but we need to resupply them within the next two weeks but we will see how we are going to do it dahil sa nangyayari ngayon sa (because of what just happened) West Philippine Sea)," Aguilar said.

Also, he added that it is the AFP's objective to ensure that these troops have the necessary food, drinks and other supplies they need to do their task there.

On Monday, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) strongly condemned Chinese attempts to block the country's efforts to resupply its troops stationed in Ayungin Shoal.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said the "repeated water cannoning and continuous dangerous maneuvers" by the CCG and Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels also put the lives of the crews of the Philippine vessels in danger.

Malaya added such acts violate humanitarian and international laws as the Philippines was only conducting legal activities to support its troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre which is stationed in Ayungin Shoal which is part of the country's territory.

Malaya also blamed the CCG and CMM's "dangerous and unlawful tactics" for preventing the second Philippine supply boat from completing its mission of bringing food, water, and other provisions to Filipino troops deployed in Ayungin.

At one point, Malaya said a CCG vessel blocked the way of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship within 20 yards, a maneuver that could have resulted in a collision, if not for the quick thinking and action of Filipino coast guard crews.

He also added that the government will never waver in its determination to resupply our troops stationed in Ayungin Shoal and other Philippine-occupied features.

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday officially summoned Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian and demanded the cessation of illegal and dangerous activities in the WPS.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207339

PH to China: Sierra Madre ‘permanent station’ in Ayungin Shoal

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): PH to China: Sierra Madre ‘permanent station’ in Ayungin Shoal (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora and Priam Nepomuceno)

AGGRESSIVE ACTIONS. (From left) Philippine Coast Guard's Commodore Jay Tarriela, National Security Council's Jonathan Malaya, Armed Forces of the Philippines' Col. Medel Aguilar and Department of Foreign Affairs' Teresita Daza, all spokespersons, answer questions from the media during a press briefing at the DFA central office in Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Monday (Aug. 7, 2023). Malaya said the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, led by National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, strongly condemns the aggressive, dangerous and unlawful actions by the Chinese Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia vessels that attacked Philippine-chartered supply boats and Philippine Coast Guard vessels with water cannons while undertaking a regular rotation and resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal on Saturday. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – The Philippine government has stood pat in its position that BRP Sierra Madre (LST-57), an active Philippine Navy commissioned vessel in Ayungin Shoal will stay as a “permanent station” for Filipino troops to protect the country's rights and interests over the West Philippine Sea.

The reiteration was made after China on Aug. 7 claimed that the Philippine government has “promised to tow away” the vessel from the shoal, while insisting it has sovereignty over the Ayungin Shoal, a feature within the Kalayaan Island Group less than 200 nautical miles off Palawan.

“The BRP Sierra Madre is a commissioned vessel of the Philippine Navy that serves as a permanent station for Philippine military personnel deployed to protect and secure Philippine rights and interests in the West Philippine Sea, particularly in the Ayungin Shoal and its vicinity,” said Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza on Tuesday.

Daza said Manila decided to deploy a permanent station on Ayungin Shoal in 1999 in response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef or the Mischief Reef in 1995.

“The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws,” she said.

“Moreover, the Philippine station on Ayungin Shoal was deployed in 1999, years ahead of the conclusion in 2002 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), and is therefore not a violation of the DOC,” she added.

Daza, in turn, said it is the Chinese Coast Guard’s actions, including the use of water cannon on Philippine military supply boats on Aug. 5 that were "in violation of the relevant provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS (Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC”.

Daza said CCG’s actions last week “impeded the Philippines’ legitimate and regular activities in its own exclusive economic zone”.

Ayungin Shoal, as explicitly stated in the 2016 arbitral ruling, Daza said, is a low-tide elevation that is not subject to sovereignty claims or appropriation.

“It is part of the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines over which the Philippines has sovereign rights and jurisdiction,” she said.

“The Philippines’ resupply missions and repair of BRP Sierra Madre are part of regular operations in line with domestic and international law, and ensures safety and wellbeing of our stationed personnel,” she added.

The 2016 arbitral award is based on UNCLOS and affirms UNCLOS.

“It is final, legal and binding. China as a state party to UNCLOS is well aware of that and we call on China to faithfully adhere to its obligations and commitments as a state party to UNCLOS,” Daza said.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya also underscored that BRP Sierra Madre, the symbol of Philippine sovereignty in the area, would not be abandoned.

In a press conference on Monday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said: “We will do what is necessary to make sure that it will continue to stand there.”

Malaya on Tuesday maintained that the government would ensure that troops deployed in Ayungin Shoal are properly supplied.

He added that food and other supplies, including gasoline would be sent by the "Philippine government through (the AFP) Wescom (Western Command) and the Philippine Coast Guard."

Malaya declined to give further details for "operational security".

"I cannot disclose kung ano 'yung plano natin (what the plan will be) but definitely we can assure the public na hindi natin pababayaan 'yung mga tropa natin sa (we will not abandon our troops in) Ayungin Shoal," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207375

PH to get P433-M Japan grant for maritime communication system

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): PH to get P433-M Japan grant for maritime communication system (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PATROL VESSEL. The Japan-made Philippine Coast Guard patrol vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701). Japan and the Philippines signed an exchange of note for a 1.1 billion yen or approximately PHP433 million to help the Philippine Coast Guard procure a state-of-the-art satellite data communication system. (Photo courtesy of Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa)

MANILA – Japan and the Philippines signed an exchange of note for a 1.1 billion Japanese yen or approximately PHP433 million to help the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) procure a state-of-the-art satellite data communication system.

The Japanese Embassy in Manila said the grant aims to help the PCG improve its maritime law enforcement capabilities and maritime domain awareness, which will contribute to the country's economic and social development, strengthening cooperation in the Sulu-Celebes Sea and its surrounding areas, as well as realizing the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific."

The exchange of note was signed between Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo at the Department of Foreign Affairs on Aug. 8.

With this system, Koshikawa said the PCG will be able to ensure smooth communications between its 10 44-meter and two 97-meter vessels and the PCG headquarters “inclusive of free communication charges for 10 years”.

“[B]eing an archipelago also, Japan understands the importance of vigilance in maritime security,” Koshikawa said.

“In light of the situations in the South China Sea, this is a very timely cooperation that will enable the decision makers of the Philippine government here in Manila to grasp in real time the situation off shore. Moreover, this will be extremely effective in terms of crisis management and response,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207388

Suspect in town cop chief’s slay nabbed in Maguindanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): Suspect in town cop chief’s slay nabbed in Maguindanao Sur (By Edwin Fernandez)

(Infographic courtesy of PRO-BARMM)

AMPATUAN, Maguindanao Sur – Police arrested here Monday one of the suspects in the murder of a police lieutenant and foiled his attempt to execute another police officer securing a sports event in town.

In a report Tuesday, Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, police director for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), identified the arrested suspect as Hamid Mling, a member of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Mling, 30, was also one of the suspects in the murder of Lt. Reynaldo Samson, Ampatuan town police chief, and Cpl. Salipudin Endab in an ambush on Aug. 31 last year.

Samson and his men were to serve a warrant of arrest against BIFF leader Abdulkarim Hasim, alias Commander Jacket, in Barangay Kapinpilan, Ampatuan when ambushed by the BIFF.

In February this year, Hasim was killed during a joint police-military operation at a bus terminal in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat province.

Citing intelligence information, Nobleza said Mling was seen suspiciously roaming at this town’s covered court, waiting for a chance to shoot another police officer securing the sports activities in Barangay Poblacion.

Mling, listed as a BIFF member operating in this municipality, yielded a .45-caliber pistol. Charges for violation of RA 10591 or the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act” are readied against him.

“The gun seized from the suspect will be subjected to ballistic examination at Regional Forensic Unit BARMM for investigation and verification,” Nobleza said.

Meanwhile, Nobleza also reported the arrest of two wanted persons facing two counts of murder before a local court during an operation in Barangay Marques, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday.

Nabbed were Sammy Diocolano Maton and Buagas Acob for murder, gunrunning and illegal drug pushing in the southern part of Lanao Del Sur, Maguindanao Del Norte and Cotabato City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207351

P1.3-M cash aid released to 18 former rebels in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): P1.3-M cash aid released to 18 former rebels in Sorsogon (By Connie Calipay)

CASH GRANT. Former rebels (right) receive cash grants from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) personnel through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) at the Sorsogon Provincial Capitol on Aug. 4, 2023. Of the 18 former rebels, 10 were regular members of the New People's Army (NPA) while eight were members of the Militia ng Bayan who surrendered in 2021. (Photo courtesy of 903rd Infantry Brigade, PA)

LEGAZPI CITY – Eighteen former rebels in Sorsogon province recently received almost PHP1.3 million in cash assistance under the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

In an interview on Tuesday, 1Lt. Richelle Arambuyong, Civil Military Operation (CMO) officer of the 903rd Infantry Brigade, said the aid was distributed in a simple ceremony at the Sorsogon Provincial Capitol last Aug. 4.

"Of the 18 former rebels, 10 were regular members of the New People's Army (NPA) while eight were members of the rebel group's Militia ng Bayan who surrendered in 2021," Arambuyong said.

She said the rebels received immediate assistance amounting to PHP270,000; livelihood assistance, PHP500,000; firearms remuneration, PHP144,000 and reintegration assistance, PHP378,000.

Arambuyong said the assistance would help the former rebels start a new life.

In a statement, 903rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Aldwine Almase, thanked the 18 former rebels for their decision to return to mainstream society.

"We will also continue to encourage the remaining rebels to abandon the armed struggle, return to the folds of the law and start over with a peaceful and productive life together with their loved ones," Almase said.

The distribution activity was attended by government officials from the 903rd Infantry Brigade, 31st Infantry Battalion, and 22nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), provincial government of Sorsogon and civil society organization representatives.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207403

Young Dawlah Islamiya member yield in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8, 2023): Young Dawlah Islamiya member yield in Lanao Sur (By Edwin Fernandez)

RIGHT MOVE. A teenage member of the Daesh-inspired Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group poses with his rifle after he voluntarily surrenders to military authorities in Madalum town, Lanao del Sur province on Saturday (Aug. 5, 2023). Known only as 'Taimiya”, he told state forces that he was recruited and joined the DI at age 11 to fight government forces in Madalum. (Photo courtesy of Army’s 103Bde)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao Norte – A 15-year-old member of the Daesh-inspired Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terror group has surrendered to military authorities in Madalum town, Lanao del Sur province over the weekend, an Army official said Tuesday.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade chief, said the teenage DI member, known only as alias “Taimiya”, surrendered last Aug. 5 to the Army’s 51st Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Madalum.

“He brought with him his M14 rifle,” Barroquillo said of Taimiya, who is from Barangay Lininding, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

Barroquillo attributed the surrender of the young DI member to local communities who provide the military with vital intelligence information about the remnants of the local Maute terror faction in their midst.

Taimiya said he was convinced to join the DI in 2019 in Madalum when he was still 11-years-old. He was forced to join several firefights against government troops, he said.

Taimiya said hardship, lack of adequate food, and constant running away from pursuing government forces made him decide to yield and live a normal life like any kid his age.

Barroquillo said Taimiya is now under the custody of 51IB for debriefing and processing under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program which is now being instituted in the Lanao del Sur provincial government.

He urged other DI members to take advantage of the government’s reconciliation program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207424

Central Negros clash kills rebel

Posted to the Panay News (Aug 8, 2023): Central Negros clash kills rebel

BACOLOD City – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed in a series of running gun battles in central Negros over the weekend.

Authorities identified the fatality as Joel Blasco, a member of the NPA’s Central Negros Front 1.

According to the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB), the initial gun battle took place in Barangay Imelda in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental at around 5:45 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5.

A 10-minute gun battle ensued between government forces and eight rebels.

As the NPA retreated, government forces recovered a loaded .45 pistol and two backpacks.

The Army pursued the rebels until Sitio Cansimba in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Another gun battle occurred. Blasco was killed while two others escaped.

Authorities recovered a .38 revolver, a fragmentation grenade, and the slain rebel’s belongings.

Blasco’s remains were positively identified by his family. (Watchmen Daily Journal)

https://www.panaynews.net/central-negros-clash-kills-rebel/

Rebel killed; guns recovered in gun battle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 7, 2023): Rebel killed; guns recovered in gun battle (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

A CPP-NPA flag and 45 caliber pistol with two magazines containing ammunition, among other items, were recovered by Army soldiers during an encounter with suspected NPA rebels in Brgy. Imelda, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.*PA photo

A suspected New People’s Army rebel died in renewed armed clashes with Army soldiers in Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, on August 5.

The series of encounters ensued after soldiers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion responded to reports by civilians on the presence of eight armed NPA rebels in Sitio Leong, Brgy. Imelda, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

In a statement issued by the 62nd Infantry Battalion, the gun battle between a group of armed rebels ensued at about 5:45 a.m. of Aug. 5, which lasted about 10 minutes.

The fleeing rebels left behind a caliber .45 pistol with a magazine containing ammunition, two back packs with personal belongings, which were recovered at the encounter site by pursuing 62IB soldiers.

Pursuit operations also led to another encounter between Army soldiers and three suspected rebels in Sitio Cansimba, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padila, believed to have been among the rebels fleeing from the initial encounter site in neighboring Brgy. Imelda, Guihulngan City.

After a three-minute gunbattle, Army soldiers scouring the encounter site discovered a cadaver of a slain rebel and recovered a .38 caliber revolver, a hand grenade, and personal belongings.

The identity of slain rebel has yet not been established as of last night.*

https://visayandailystar.com/rebel-killed-guns-recovered-in-gun-battle/