From InterAksyon (Dec 22): 3 suspected NPA, including minor, nabbed
Three suspected New People’s Army guerrillas, one of them a minor, were arrested Friday night at a checkpoint manned by soldiers and police as they were allegedly on their way to conduct reconnaissance in preparation for an attack. Colonel Generoso Bolina, spokesman of the Southern Luzon Command, said the suspects were arrested in San Francisco town, Quezon province around 11 p.m. after earlier evading a checkpoint in Barangay Tayuman. Two of the alleged rebels were identified as Dennis Quidor, alias Anghel, the supposed team leader, and Eliseo Lopez. The other suspect is only 17-years old. Seized from them were an improvised explosive device, a hand grenade, an M16 rifle, several blasting caps and mobile phones. The three allegedly belong to the NPA in the Southern Tagalog and Bicol regions. Also arrested were two drivers, Alex Herez and Ariel Bordane. The suspected rebels were allegedly scouting ahead of attacks on San Francisco, San Narciso and Mulanay towns.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/51037/3-suspected-npa-including-minor-nabbed
Saturday, December 22, 2012
PH says no to 'coalition' with communist rebels
From Rappler (Dec 22): PH says no to 'coalition' with communist rebels
The Philippine government said Saturday, December 22, it would never share power with communist rebels after they proposed an alliance in a bid to end a decades-long insurgency. The rebels said they had called this week (during peace talks in The Hague) for the alliance to undertake programs aimed at ending the insurgency that has left tens of thousands dead. Chief rebel negotiator Luis Jalandoni said such programs would include agrarian reform, rural development, and industrialization.
The Philippine government said Saturday, December 22, it would never share power with communist rebels after they proposed an alliance in a bid to end a decades-long insurgency. The rebels said they had called this week (during peace talks in The Hague) for the alliance to undertake programs aimed at ending the insurgency that has left tens of thousands dead. Chief rebel negotiator Luis Jalandoni said such programs would include agrarian reform, rural development, and industrialization.
But the government peace negotiating office said in a statement, "The (government panel) will never agree to establish a coalition government or a power-sharing arrangement with" the National Democratic Front, the rebels' political wing. It also denied there had been any discussion of a possible coalition when the government panel met with NDF negotiators in the informal, so-called "special track" meeting in the Netherlands. "The matter on coalition government was never discussed in the recently concluded informal meeting on the special track. There was no such offer made by the NDF," the office said.
During the meetings, the two sides agreed to a 26-day nationwide ceasefire from December 20 and to hold further talks on peace, human rights, land reform, and national industrialization. This week's meeting marked the resumption of talks after the Communist Party of the Philippines, the biggest group in the NDF coalition, pulled out of talks in November 2011 after Manila rejected rebel demands. The two sides resumed low-level "backroom" negotiations in June.
The communists have been waging an armed rebellion to seize power since 1969, and more than 30,000 people have died in the conflict, according to the government. The military estimates the current strength of the communists' guerrilla force at about 4,000 fighters, significantly down from more than 26,000 at its peak in the late 1980s, when the rebels also engaged in failed peace talks with Manila.
Army’s gift-giving, feeding activities benefit former rebels in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 22): Army’s gift-giving, feeding activities benefit former rebels in Bukidnon
Hundreds of former rebels and indigenous people benefited from the two-day gift giving and feeding activities of the 8th Infantry ‘Dependable’ Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (8th INF BN, 4ID, PA) conducted recently in a remote village of Kibongkog in San Fernando and barangay Kalabugao in Impasug-ong town, this province. Lieutenant Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commanding Officer, 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA, who facilitated the event, said the gifts were mostly clothing and toys. “It is very heartwarming to see former rebels who enjoyed receiving gifts with their families, especially children,” Cuerpo said. They were also served “chicken arrozcaldo (ginger-flavored rice and chicken delicacy)” while queuing for their turns to receive gifts.
Cuerpo explained that the event is a nationwide approach, which seeks to bring a combined effort among stakeholders to help alleviate poverty and address some root causes of insurgency. “In our efforts to promote army’s commitment to peace and development in relation to “IPSP Bayanihan,” this activity is wholeheartedly offered to the community, especially those living in depressed and affected areas confronted with threats from Section Committee 89 and Guerilla Front 6 of the New People’s Army. People should know that military operations, force, weapons and guns could not solely solve insurgency. A concerted effort is needed to address problems on poverty, malnutrition, and deprivation in order to achieve lasting peace in the province, Cuerpo said.
Hon. Laurencia Edma, Mayor of San Fernando municipality and Impasug-ong town mayor Hon. Mario Okinlay, expressed gratitude to the 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA team who made every effort to bring such kind of laudable services to their constituents. (1Lt. Froilan T. Bayangos, 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1501356079177
Hundreds of former rebels and indigenous people benefited from the two-day gift giving and feeding activities of the 8th Infantry ‘Dependable’ Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (8th INF BN, 4ID, PA) conducted recently in a remote village of Kibongkog in San Fernando and barangay Kalabugao in Impasug-ong town, this province. Lieutenant Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commanding Officer, 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA, who facilitated the event, said the gifts were mostly clothing and toys. “It is very heartwarming to see former rebels who enjoyed receiving gifts with their families, especially children,” Cuerpo said. They were also served “chicken arrozcaldo (ginger-flavored rice and chicken delicacy)” while queuing for their turns to receive gifts.
Cuerpo explained that the event is a nationwide approach, which seeks to bring a combined effort among stakeholders to help alleviate poverty and address some root causes of insurgency. “In our efforts to promote army’s commitment to peace and development in relation to “IPSP Bayanihan,” this activity is wholeheartedly offered to the community, especially those living in depressed and affected areas confronted with threats from Section Committee 89 and Guerilla Front 6 of the New People’s Army. People should know that military operations, force, weapons and guns could not solely solve insurgency. A concerted effort is needed to address problems on poverty, malnutrition, and deprivation in order to achieve lasting peace in the province, Cuerpo said.
Hon. Laurencia Edma, Mayor of San Fernando municipality and Impasug-ong town mayor Hon. Mario Okinlay, expressed gratitude to the 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA team who made every effort to bring such kind of laudable services to their constituents. (1Lt. Froilan T. Bayangos, 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA/RLRB, PIA Bukidnon)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1501356079177
Army’s 403rd Brigade joins 77th AFP anniversary celebration nationwide
From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 22): Army’s 403rd Brigade joins 77th AFP anniversary celebration nationwide
Hundreds of peace-loving soldiers from different units of the 403rd Infantry ‘Peacemaker’ Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (403Inf Bde, 4ID, PA) gathered inside the military reservation site in Camp Osito Bahian here, and took the lead in planting more than 1,000 tree seedlings of various species, Friday, to commemorate the 77th founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). After the simultaneous tree planting activity, a photo exhibit and static display of armory in the ‘Army Open House’ was featured. It showcased the army’s key and latest combat equipment. This provided rare opportunities for the public to view the army’s cutting-edge equipment and platforms.
Col. James V. Jacob, Commanding Officer, 403rd Inf Bde, 4ID, PA , said as the AFP celebrates anniversary, the army pays tribute to the people who are steadfast in their support to soldiers who are tirelessly working not only for the sake of security but also on freedom from poverty and discrimination that paves way to attain peace and development in Mindanao. In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), the army also conducted a bloodletting activity to support PRC’s “Give Blood, Save Life” program.
Celebrated annually every 21st day of December, this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Bayanihan at Kahandaan: Tuwid na Daan Tungo sa Kapayapaan,” which is in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s thrust to open up space for people’s involvement in defining, shaping, and ensuring peace and security in the community through the army’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan. (Cpt. Eduardo I. Meclat Jr, CMO, 403rd Bde, 4ID, PA/RLRB,PIA10 Bukidnon)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1501356145001
Hundreds of peace-loving soldiers from different units of the 403rd Infantry ‘Peacemaker’ Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (403Inf Bde, 4ID, PA) gathered inside the military reservation site in Camp Osito Bahian here, and took the lead in planting more than 1,000 tree seedlings of various species, Friday, to commemorate the 77th founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). After the simultaneous tree planting activity, a photo exhibit and static display of armory in the ‘Army Open House’ was featured. It showcased the army’s key and latest combat equipment. This provided rare opportunities for the public to view the army’s cutting-edge equipment and platforms.
Col. James V. Jacob, Commanding Officer, 403rd Inf Bde, 4ID, PA , said as the AFP celebrates anniversary, the army pays tribute to the people who are steadfast in their support to soldiers who are tirelessly working not only for the sake of security but also on freedom from poverty and discrimination that paves way to attain peace and development in Mindanao. In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), the army also conducted a bloodletting activity to support PRC’s “Give Blood, Save Life” program.
Celebrated annually every 21st day of December, this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Bayanihan at Kahandaan: Tuwid na Daan Tungo sa Kapayapaan,” which is in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s thrust to open up space for people’s involvement in defining, shaping, and ensuring peace and security in the community through the army’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan. (Cpt. Eduardo I. Meclat Jr, CMO, 403rd Bde, 4ID, PA/RLRB,PIA10 Bukidnon)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1501356145001
Armed paramilitary in Muslim Women clothes accosted in MILF peace advocacy
From the MILF Website (Dec 22): Armed paramilitary in Muslim Women clothes accosted in MILF peace advocacy
Armed with a pistol and dressed in Abaya, an attire for Muslim women, Jove Jacobo Arguelles, a paramilitary troop under the 57th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, was accosted as he was roaming around during the MILF peace advocacy program in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao a couple of days ago. Covert security men of the MILF assigned for the program accosted the suspicious Looking Arguelles. On the spot, Arguelless was found in possession of caliber pistol.
More than 10,000 Bangsamoro people were in attendance during the advocacy program Intended to explain properly the Government of the Philippines - Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH - MILF) Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro that was signed in Presidential Palace in Malacanang last October 15, 2012. Top political and military leaders of MILF as well as the mayors of Datu Paglas and Columbio were also in attendance.
The MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) Head of Secretariat turned over Jove to Mayor Tong Paglas during the program following the Instruction from the MILF Central Committee and BIAF General Staff. "In the spirit and goodwill of the peace process and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the government and MILF, the MILF had turned over Jove," the MILF CCCH Secretariat said. "We hope that similar incident will not happened again," he said. Jove standing before the thousands of people gathered in the advocacy thanked the MILF for the kind treatment he was accorded.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3004:armed-paramilitary-in-muslim-women-clothes-accosted-in-milf-peace-advocacy&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
Armed with a pistol and dressed in Abaya, an attire for Muslim women, Jove Jacobo Arguelles, a paramilitary troop under the 57th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, was accosted as he was roaming around during the MILF peace advocacy program in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao a couple of days ago. Covert security men of the MILF assigned for the program accosted the suspicious Looking Arguelles. On the spot, Arguelless was found in possession of caliber pistol.
More than 10,000 Bangsamoro people were in attendance during the advocacy program Intended to explain properly the Government of the Philippines - Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH - MILF) Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro that was signed in Presidential Palace in Malacanang last October 15, 2012. Top political and military leaders of MILF as well as the mayors of Datu Paglas and Columbio were also in attendance.
The MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) Head of Secretariat turned over Jove to Mayor Tong Paglas during the program following the Instruction from the MILF Central Committee and BIAF General Staff. "In the spirit and goodwill of the peace process and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the government and MILF, the MILF had turned over Jove," the MILF CCCH Secretariat said. "We hope that similar incident will not happened again," he said. Jove standing before the thousands of people gathered in the advocacy thanked the MILF for the kind treatment he was accorded.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3004:armed-paramilitary-in-muslim-women-clothes-accosted-in-milf-peace-advocacy&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
Friday, December 21, 2012
EO 120, s. 2012 and the Impasse
Op/Ed piece in MindaNews (Dec 21): EO 120, s. 2012 and the Impasse (by Patricio P. Diaz)
President Benigno Simeon S. Aquino III signed Executive Order No. 120, s. 2012 last December 17 creating the Bangsamoro Transition Commission as provided in the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro. Two days after, the two Houses of Congress passed separate resolutions supporting the EO. The President can appoint at any time members from the Government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front lists of nominees to constitute the Commission.
Could it be said that progress on the FAB roadmap is on track and on time – meaning, the Commission can start drafting the Bangsamoro Basic Law in January to make its timely submission to the 16th Congress in July 2013 possible?
The Commission can start drafting the BBL in January, if it were not for the “technical impasse” that has snagged the negotiation of the four annexes to the FAB during the 34th Exploratory Talks. As FAB provides, these annexes are parts “of this Framework Agreement”. The FAB plus the four annexes constitute the Comprehensive Compact or Agreement.
Part V, 4.a of the FAB states the first function of the Commission: “To work on the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law with provisions consistent with all agreements entered and that may be entered into by the Parties.” The annexes are within the context of “all agreements”. The Commission’s “work” must be “consistent” with the Comprehensive Agreement.
What does the impasse imply? The Commission cannot start drafting the BBL until the FAB has been completed and signed as the Comprehensive Agreement.
This will derail and delay the peace talks. The peace process is already in a tight race against time. The FAB roadmap is so crammed that, at the longest, the real transition period for Bangsamoro is only one and a half years. A delay in the passage of the BBL – including unforeseen snags in Congress – will delay the creation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and shorten further the transition period, the real one.
With the looming delays, it may be asked: Can Bangsamoro be properly established during President Aquino III’s term? In fact, it could be seriously questioned if within the one and a half year transition period Bangsamoro can be properly established?
Is the Government Panel bothered about the impending delays? Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer dismisses the “impasse” as within the “flexibility” of the negotiation process and is confident no “difficult issues” are “insurmountable” (OPAPP Website, 16 December 2012). The Palace echoes Ferrer, considering the “impasse in the peace talk not a problem” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 18, 2012).
Ferrer’s rationalization must be the position of the government Panel. Its echo from the Palace tends to belie MILF Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal magnanimous assumption, his belief, that “this position of the government peace panel [does not reflect] the thinking of President Benigno Aquino III” (Luwaran, December 16, 2012).
The impasse is a fact. The Government panel chair sees no problem. The MILF panel chair had seen it coming and “forewarned the parties”. But, its adverse impact on how the Transcom would fulfill its task should not be taken for granted. The earlier the impasse is resolved, the earlier the Transcom can draft the BBL and pass on to the Congress the burden of averting further the delay in establishing the Bangsamoro.
However, this concern is tempered by the following positive notes:
First, the speedy passage of the Senate and House supporting resolutions reveals the good will and support President Aquino III has from Congress concerning the FAB. This augurs well for the BBL draft when he certifies it to Congress as “URGENT”.
Second, both Panel Chairs Ferrer and Iqbal say that Transcom upon the appointment of its members can immediately start work by putting up “its office and staff” and do all the “preliminary steps” for its regular functions (MindaNews, December 20, 2012). This is an assurance that they will not delay the resolution of the impasse, most probably by January 2013, so as not to render idle the Transcom and upset its time-table.
Those who have been alarmed by the “technical impasse” – fearing it “may imperil the peace process” (See: “Special Feature” in Luwaran, December 20, ongoing) – should calm their fears.
http://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2012/12/21/mind-da-news-eo-120-s-2012-and-the-impasse/
President Benigno Simeon S. Aquino III signed Executive Order No. 120, s. 2012 last December 17 creating the Bangsamoro Transition Commission as provided in the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro. Two days after, the two Houses of Congress passed separate resolutions supporting the EO. The President can appoint at any time members from the Government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front lists of nominees to constitute the Commission.
Could it be said that progress on the FAB roadmap is on track and on time – meaning, the Commission can start drafting the Bangsamoro Basic Law in January to make its timely submission to the 16th Congress in July 2013 possible?
The Commission can start drafting the BBL in January, if it were not for the “technical impasse” that has snagged the negotiation of the four annexes to the FAB during the 34th Exploratory Talks. As FAB provides, these annexes are parts “of this Framework Agreement”. The FAB plus the four annexes constitute the Comprehensive Compact or Agreement.
Part V, 4.a of the FAB states the first function of the Commission: “To work on the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law with provisions consistent with all agreements entered and that may be entered into by the Parties.” The annexes are within the context of “all agreements”. The Commission’s “work” must be “consistent” with the Comprehensive Agreement.
What does the impasse imply? The Commission cannot start drafting the BBL until the FAB has been completed and signed as the Comprehensive Agreement.
This will derail and delay the peace talks. The peace process is already in a tight race against time. The FAB roadmap is so crammed that, at the longest, the real transition period for Bangsamoro is only one and a half years. A delay in the passage of the BBL – including unforeseen snags in Congress – will delay the creation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and shorten further the transition period, the real one.
With the looming delays, it may be asked: Can Bangsamoro be properly established during President Aquino III’s term? In fact, it could be seriously questioned if within the one and a half year transition period Bangsamoro can be properly established?
Is the Government Panel bothered about the impending delays? Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer dismisses the “impasse” as within the “flexibility” of the negotiation process and is confident no “difficult issues” are “insurmountable” (OPAPP Website, 16 December 2012). The Palace echoes Ferrer, considering the “impasse in the peace talk not a problem” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 18, 2012).
Ferrer’s rationalization must be the position of the government Panel. Its echo from the Palace tends to belie MILF Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal magnanimous assumption, his belief, that “this position of the government peace panel [does not reflect] the thinking of President Benigno Aquino III” (Luwaran, December 16, 2012).
The impasse is a fact. The Government panel chair sees no problem. The MILF panel chair had seen it coming and “forewarned the parties”. But, its adverse impact on how the Transcom would fulfill its task should not be taken for granted. The earlier the impasse is resolved, the earlier the Transcom can draft the BBL and pass on to the Congress the burden of averting further the delay in establishing the Bangsamoro.
However, this concern is tempered by the following positive notes:
First, the speedy passage of the Senate and House supporting resolutions reveals the good will and support President Aquino III has from Congress concerning the FAB. This augurs well for the BBL draft when he certifies it to Congress as “URGENT”.
Second, both Panel Chairs Ferrer and Iqbal say that Transcom upon the appointment of its members can immediately start work by putting up “its office and staff” and do all the “preliminary steps” for its regular functions (MindaNews, December 20, 2012). This is an assurance that they will not delay the resolution of the impasse, most probably by January 2013, so as not to render idle the Transcom and upset its time-table.
Those who have been alarmed by the “technical impasse” – fearing it “may imperil the peace process” (See: “Special Feature” in Luwaran, December 20, ongoing) – should calm their fears.
http://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2012/12/21/mind-da-news-eo-120-s-2012-and-the-impasse/
CPP/NDF: The expansion of the NPA in 2012
Posted to the CPP Website (Dec 21): Lalong dumami ang nag-NPA ngayong 2012 - NDF (The expansion of the NPA in 2012)
Eduardo Labrador
Spokesperson
Southern Tagalog Regonal Chapter (PKM)
Kakambal ng balitang pagkagunaw ng mundo ngayong araw, Disyembre 21, ang prediksyon ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) na mauubos na ang New People’s Army (NPA) sa pagtatapos ng taong 2012 sa South Quezon at Bondoc Peninsula (SQBP).
(Along with the doomsday news today, December 21, are the predictions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that it would run the New People's Army (NPA) out of South Bangalore and Bondoc Peninsula (SQBP) by the end of the year 2012.)
Matatandaang nagpahayag si Gen. Eduardo Año noong Hunyo na ‘zero NPA at insurgent-free’ na ang buong probinsya ng Quezon bago magsara ang taon at diumano’y matagal nang nasa ‘christmas wishlist’ ng reaksyunaryong gobyerno ito.
(What Gen. Eduardo Ano said in June that the entire province of Quezon would be 'zero NPA and insurgent-free' before the close of the year is just part of a long 'Christmas wishlist' of this reactionary government.)
Ngunit ayon sa pahayag na ipinamahagi sa isang lightning rally sa Mendiola ng Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) ay “kabaligtaran ang nangyayari sa mga larangang gerilyang inaatake ng Oplan Bayanihan ng AFP.”
(But according to a statement distributed at a lightning rally at Mendiola by the National Confederation of Peasants (PKM) "the opposite occurred in many areas as the guerrillas attacked Oplan Bayanihan of the AFP.")
Ayon kay Eduardo Labrador, tagapagsalita ng PKM, miyembrong samahan ng National Democratic Front sa Southern Tagalog (NDF-ST), “mahigit sa isang platun ang kabuuang bilang ng bagong-sampang mandirigma at kadre ng NPA sa nakalipas na tatlong buwan sa mga larangan ng SQBP pa lamang. Resulta ito ng masiglang pagtugon ng rebolusyonaryong masa sa mga larangan sa panawagan ng Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) na pakamahalin at itaguyod ang NPA.”.....
(According to Eduardo Labrador, spokesman of the PKM, a member organization of the National Democratic Front in Southern Tagalog (NDF-ST), "more than a platoon of fighters and cadres of the NPA have been fielded in many areas of the SQBP in the past three months. This is the result of a dynamic response of the revolutionary masses in the field to the call of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to cherish and promote the NPA. ".......)
Eduardo Labrador
Spokesperson
Southern Tagalog Regonal Chapter (PKM)
Kakambal ng balitang pagkagunaw ng mundo ngayong araw, Disyembre 21, ang prediksyon ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) na mauubos na ang New People’s Army (NPA) sa pagtatapos ng taong 2012 sa South Quezon at Bondoc Peninsula (SQBP).
(Along with the doomsday news today, December 21, are the predictions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that it would run the New People's Army (NPA) out of South Bangalore and Bondoc Peninsula (SQBP) by the end of the year 2012.)
Matatandaang nagpahayag si Gen. Eduardo Año noong Hunyo na ‘zero NPA at insurgent-free’ na ang buong probinsya ng Quezon bago magsara ang taon at diumano’y matagal nang nasa ‘christmas wishlist’ ng reaksyunaryong gobyerno ito.
(What Gen. Eduardo Ano said in June that the entire province of Quezon would be 'zero NPA and insurgent-free' before the close of the year is just part of a long 'Christmas wishlist' of this reactionary government.)
Ngunit ayon sa pahayag na ipinamahagi sa isang lightning rally sa Mendiola ng Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) ay “kabaligtaran ang nangyayari sa mga larangang gerilyang inaatake ng Oplan Bayanihan ng AFP.”
(But according to a statement distributed at a lightning rally at Mendiola by the National Confederation of Peasants (PKM) "the opposite occurred in many areas as the guerrillas attacked Oplan Bayanihan of the AFP.")
Ayon kay Eduardo Labrador, tagapagsalita ng PKM, miyembrong samahan ng National Democratic Front sa Southern Tagalog (NDF-ST), “mahigit sa isang platun ang kabuuang bilang ng bagong-sampang mandirigma at kadre ng NPA sa nakalipas na tatlong buwan sa mga larangan ng SQBP pa lamang. Resulta ito ng masiglang pagtugon ng rebolusyonaryong masa sa mga larangan sa panawagan ng Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) na pakamahalin at itaguyod ang NPA.”.....
(According to Eduardo Labrador, spokesman of the PKM, a member organization of the National Democratic Front in Southern Tagalog (NDF-ST), "more than a platoon of fighters and cadres of the NPA have been fielded in many areas of the SQBP in the past three months. This is the result of a dynamic response of the revolutionary masses in the field to the call of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to cherish and promote the NPA. ".......)
CPP blasts Aquino hypocrisy over sin tax law
From the CPP Website (Dec 21): CPP blasts Aquino hypocrisy over sin tax law
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today blasted the Aquino regime for its hypocrisy over the enactment of the so-called Sin Tax law which is being billed as a boost to the government’s budget for health services when at the same time it is moving forward with its program of corporatization and privatization of public health care. The Sin Tax Law was signed yesterday by Aquino.
“The enactment of the Sin Tax law is part of Aquino’s continuing compliance with policy dictates of the International Monetary Fund and other financial institutions,” said the CPP. “That the additional revenue will accrue to health care is a complete lie and simply aims to deceive the people into making the additional tax burden palatable.” The Sin Tax law aims to generate P248.49 billion over the next five years.
“Behind all the hype regarding the so-called sin taxes, they comprise nothing but an additional tax imposition on the people whose aim is to allow Aquino to continue with his antipeople budget policies that are geared to servicing foreign debt, privatization programs and the fattening of the AFP and PNP for heightened militarization and war campaigns especially in the countryside,” added the CPP.....
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/cpp-blasts-aquino-hypocrisy-over-sin-tax-law
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today blasted the Aquino regime for its hypocrisy over the enactment of the so-called Sin Tax law which is being billed as a boost to the government’s budget for health services when at the same time it is moving forward with its program of corporatization and privatization of public health care. The Sin Tax Law was signed yesterday by Aquino.
“The enactment of the Sin Tax law is part of Aquino’s continuing compliance with policy dictates of the International Monetary Fund and other financial institutions,” said the CPP. “That the additional revenue will accrue to health care is a complete lie and simply aims to deceive the people into making the additional tax burden palatable.” The Sin Tax law aims to generate P248.49 billion over the next five years.
“Behind all the hype regarding the so-called sin taxes, they comprise nothing but an additional tax imposition on the people whose aim is to allow Aquino to continue with his antipeople budget policies that are geared to servicing foreign debt, privatization programs and the fattening of the AFP and PNP for heightened militarization and war campaigns especially in the countryside,” added the CPP.....
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/cpp-blasts-aquino-hypocrisy-over-sin-tax-law
Confirmation of PAF Generals and Other Senior Officers
Posted to the Philippine Air Force Website (Dec 19): Confirmation of PAF Generals and Other Senior Officers
The Committee deliberation of the AD Interim Appointment of PAF Generals and Senior Officers was confirmed today, December 19, 2012 at 10:00 in the morning at the Sen Ambrosio Padilla Room, Senate of the Philippines, GSIS Building, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. The Vice Commander, MGEN RAUL GABRIEL L DIMATATAC AFP together with nine (9) other newly promoted Generals and four (4) Colonels have been confirmed of their promotions by the Commission on Appointments (CA).
Joining MGEN DIMATATAC AFP are PAF Chief of Air Staff, MGEN WILFREDO O ONA AFP, (Air Force Inspector General) MGEN ROMEO V POQUIZ AFP, the Commandant of the AFPCGSC, MGEN VIRGILIO O DOMINGO AFP and the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs, J-5 MGEN JEFFREY F DELAGADO AFP.
The Brigadier Generals are (Wing Commander, Air Defense Wing) BGEN RAUL L DEL ROSARIO AFP, (Wing Commander, 410th Maintenance Wing) BGEN ROLANDO M AQUINO AFP, (Wing Commander, 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing) BGEN RENE E SANTOS AFP, (Wing Commander, 355th Air Engineering Wing) BGEN DANILO H PENAFIEL AFP and (Wing Commander, 570th Composite Tactical Wing) BGEN EUSAQUITO S MANALO AFP.
The four Colonels are COL MIGUEL ERNESTO G OKOL PAF (GSC), COL MAXIMIA O IGNACIO, COL RUMMUELL J PEREZ PAF (GSC) and COL RAMON
Joining MGEN DIMATATAC AFP are PAF Chief of Air Staff, MGEN WILFREDO O ONA AFP, (Air Force Inspector General) MGEN ROMEO V POQUIZ AFP, the Commandant of the AFPCGSC, MGEN VIRGILIO O DOMINGO AFP and the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs, J-5 MGEN JEFFREY F DELAGADO AFP.
The Brigadier Generals are (Wing Commander, Air Defense Wing) BGEN RAUL L DEL ROSARIO AFP, (Wing Commander, 410th Maintenance Wing) BGEN ROLANDO M AQUINO AFP, (Wing Commander, 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing) BGEN RENE E SANTOS AFP, (Wing Commander, 355th Air Engineering Wing) BGEN DANILO H PENAFIEL AFP and (Wing Commander, 570th Composite Tactical Wing) BGEN EUSAQUITO S MANALO AFP.
The four Colonels are COL MIGUEL ERNESTO G OKOL PAF (GSC), COL MAXIMIA O IGNACIO, COL RUMMUELL J PEREZ PAF (GSC) and COL RAMON
President Aquino Presides Over the Change of Command of the Philippine Navy
From the Navy Website (Dec 20): President Aquino Presides Over the Change of Command of the Philippine Navy
President Benigno S. Aquino III presided Wednesday the change of command of the Philippine Navy and the retirement ceremony for the outgoing navy chief. The President led the turn-over of the service to Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano as the new Flag-Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy from Vice Admiral Alexander Pama. In his speech during the event, the President said he expects Vice Admiral Alano to continue the reforms initiated by Vice Admiral Pama in the Philippine Navy, particularly the thrust to increase the capability of the navy from internal and external threats. “Ang ganitong uri ng pamumuno ang inaasahan nating ipagpatuloy at higit pang lilinangin ni Vice Admiral Alano bilang bagong Flag Officer-in-Command ng Philippine Navy,” the President said.
The Filipino public expects Alano to defeat the threat of terrorism, to help the country rise from calamities that hit Mindanao, and to fight corruption in the service, the Chief Executive said. Because of the navy’s dedication to improve itself and prepare the Philippines for future challenges, the President said, every member of the Navy, as well as the entire Filipino nation can now be proud of themselves. The President praised the Navy for its role in asserting the country’s sovereign rights in the contested West Philippine Sea, the Navy’s dental and medical missions as well as its feeding programs and disaster response initiatives.
To inspire the members of the Armed Forces to do more, the President said, the government allocated more than P28 billion in one year and seven months of the administration for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. As a result of the increased budget for the AFP, the country was able to acquire Hamilton class cutters: the BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, and the locally built BRP Tagbanua. The President noted that with the signing of the New AFP Modernization Act last week, the Philippine Navy could continue to modernize its fleet adding that under the new government's spending plan, it allotted P75 billion in the next five years to modernize the AFP.
According to the President, the government will also continue to provide decent shelter to the members of the police and military noting that by August next year, he expects the National Housing Authority to complete the additional 31,200 houses for police and military personnel.
The government has so far built 21,800 low-cost housing units intended for the police and the military, he said. Among those who joined the President during the event were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, Rep. Rodolfo Biazon, and Philippine Coast Guard Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isoreno.
Born on May 1, 1958, in Quezon City, Alano is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class Matapat of 1979. He has served the military for 37 years. Among the awards and decorations he has received include three Distinguished Service Stars, an Outstanding Achievement Medal, a Gawad Sa Kaunlaran and a Military Merit Medal with Spearhead Device. Alano is married to Maria Hildelita, a corporate lawyer. The couple is blessed with two daughters, Maria Gabriela, 13, and Sofia Lourdes, 12. PND
http://www.navy.mil.ph/news.php?news_id=802&home=1
President Benigno S. Aquino III presided Wednesday the change of command of the Philippine Navy and the retirement ceremony for the outgoing navy chief. The President led the turn-over of the service to Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano as the new Flag-Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy from Vice Admiral Alexander Pama. In his speech during the event, the President said he expects Vice Admiral Alano to continue the reforms initiated by Vice Admiral Pama in the Philippine Navy, particularly the thrust to increase the capability of the navy from internal and external threats. “Ang ganitong uri ng pamumuno ang inaasahan nating ipagpatuloy at higit pang lilinangin ni Vice Admiral Alano bilang bagong Flag Officer-in-Command ng Philippine Navy,” the President said.
The Filipino public expects Alano to defeat the threat of terrorism, to help the country rise from calamities that hit Mindanao, and to fight corruption in the service, the Chief Executive said. Because of the navy’s dedication to improve itself and prepare the Philippines for future challenges, the President said, every member of the Navy, as well as the entire Filipino nation can now be proud of themselves. The President praised the Navy for its role in asserting the country’s sovereign rights in the contested West Philippine Sea, the Navy’s dental and medical missions as well as its feeding programs and disaster response initiatives.
To inspire the members of the Armed Forces to do more, the President said, the government allocated more than P28 billion in one year and seven months of the administration for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. As a result of the increased budget for the AFP, the country was able to acquire Hamilton class cutters: the BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, and the locally built BRP Tagbanua. The President noted that with the signing of the New AFP Modernization Act last week, the Philippine Navy could continue to modernize its fleet adding that under the new government's spending plan, it allotted P75 billion in the next five years to modernize the AFP.
According to the President, the government will also continue to provide decent shelter to the members of the police and military noting that by August next year, he expects the National Housing Authority to complete the additional 31,200 houses for police and military personnel.
The government has so far built 21,800 low-cost housing units intended for the police and the military, he said. Among those who joined the President during the event were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, Rep. Rodolfo Biazon, and Philippine Coast Guard Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isoreno.
Born on May 1, 1958, in Quezon City, Alano is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class Matapat of 1979. He has served the military for 37 years. Among the awards and decorations he has received include three Distinguished Service Stars, an Outstanding Achievement Medal, a Gawad Sa Kaunlaran and a Military Merit Medal with Spearhead Device. Alano is married to Maria Hildelita, a corporate lawyer. The couple is blessed with two daughters, Maria Gabriela, 13, and Sofia Lourdes, 12. PND
http://www.navy.mil.ph/news.php?news_id=802&home=1
Philippine Army News Clippings (Dec 16-19)
Posted to the Faces, Places & Voices (Ranger Cabunzky) Blog: Philippine Army News Clippings (Dec 16-19)
December 16: http://www.scribd.com/doc/116969893/16-DEC-12#page=1
December 17: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117095075/Philippine-Army-News-Clippings
December 18: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117374901/18-DEC-12#page=1
December 19: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117375162/19-Dec-12#page=1
http://rangercabunzky.blogspot.com/p/philippine-army-news-clipping.html
December 16: http://www.scribd.com/doc/116969893/16-DEC-12#page=1
December 17: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117095075/Philippine-Army-News-Clippings
December 18: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117374901/18-DEC-12#page=1
December 19: http://www.scribd.com/doc/117375162/19-Dec-12#page=1
http://rangercabunzky.blogspot.com/p/philippine-army-news-clipping.html
Army General presents Christmas gifts to wounded rebel
Posted to the Faces, Places & Voices (Ranger Cabunzky) Blog (Dec 19): Army
General presents Christmas gifts to wounded rebel
In his statement, Bautista said that he would like to see more rebels to lay down their arms and cooperate with the government in solving community problems. "We should all help to solve our problems and not fight over these problems that could not be solved through the use of armed violence," said Bautista.
Enemies turned guardian angels
Renante Soliman-Dalon was among the 30 NPA rebels who figured in a fierce firefight with the 6th Scout Ranger Company somewhere near Mount Katuad, Bacong village, Tulunan town of North Cotabao last November 13. During the 30-minute firefight, Dalon and another companion were injured. The rest of his comrades fled in disarray, leaving them behind. "My companion died of his wounds and I was feeling helpless due to my own injuries. I raised my hands to surrender when I saw the soldiers coming towards me, their guns pointed at me," he said.
The Forward Support Medical Companies (FSMC) of the Infantry Divisions was activated last March 15, 2012 together with the Upgrade of Medical Platoons of Infantry Battalions (UMPIB). It was originally conceptualized in 2006 under the Strengthening of the PA Health Support System to improve the emergency medical care capability in the AFP leading to higher survivability rate among combat casualties. Caring for the frontline soldiers is one of the thrusts of Bautista as Army Chief. He pushed for the full implementation of this project upon assuming command over a year ago.
The Forward Support Medical Companies (FSMC) is assigned to the Service Support Battalion of the Infantry Division, and is composed of eight officers, 48 enlisted personnel, and three medical retainers. The FSMC provides medical staff advice and assistance as required on an area basis to all units in the brigade’s area of responsibility. It also provides unit-level forward medical support to units without organic medical support. The FSMC’s relevance to the military cannot be measured as time and again, their skills and expertise have saved hundreds of lives of both soldiers and rebels during combats, especially at times when evacuation is not possible due to terrain and environmental conditions.
COTABATO CITY-
Renante Dalon's first surprise was when he was treated by the soldiers after
being injured in a firefight about a month ago. While recuperating from
his wounds inside a military hospital here, he never expected that a 3-star general,
bearing Christmas gift,would enter his ward to greet him. But that was
what exactly happened during Army Chief Lt Gen Emmanuel T. Bautista’s three-day
trip to visit the troops in Mindanao starting
on Monday, December 10 during which he took time to visit the injured soldiers
inside the military hospital here.
Dalon was confined in the same ward
where several soldiers are being treated for their wounds sustained in combat. He
did not expect that he will receive Christmas gift just like the other
soldiers. "I am thankful to the good General for his excellent
gesture of giving me some presents in time for Christmas," said Dalon, 44,
a native of Sarangani
Province
In his statement, Bautista said that he would like to see more rebels to lay down their arms and cooperate with the government in solving community problems. "We should all help to solve our problems and not fight over these problems that could not be solved through the use of armed violence," said Bautista.
Enemies turned guardian angels
Renante Soliman-Dalon was among the 30 NPA rebels who figured in a fierce firefight with the 6th Scout Ranger Company somewhere near Mount Katuad, Bacong village, Tulunan town of North Cotabao last November 13. During the 30-minute firefight, Dalon and another companion were injured. The rest of his comrades fled in disarray, leaving them behind. "My companion died of his wounds and I was feeling helpless due to my own injuries. I raised my hands to surrender when I saw the soldiers coming towards me, their guns pointed at me," he said.
He knew that any of those soldiers
could have pressed the trigger to kill him, but, he tried his luck and asked
for mercy. "I asked to spare my
life and treat my wounds because I was already bleeding profusely. 1st Lt
Johnard Sara-sara, the officer leading the patrol, promptly called the combat
medics to administer first aid on my injury," he said. The soldiers whom
he considered as his worst enemies suddenly became his real life guardian
angels. The two men are combat medics of
the 6th Forward Support Medical Company, Cpl Francisco B Gamayao and Pvt
Avelino M Herrera Jr., wasted no time and treated Dalon's fatal wounds.
The Forward Support Medical
Companies (FSMC)
The Forward Support Medical Companies (FSMC) of the Infantry Divisions was activated last March 15, 2012 together with the Upgrade of Medical Platoons of Infantry Battalions (UMPIB). It was originally conceptualized in 2006 under the Strengthening of the PA Health Support System to improve the emergency medical care capability in the AFP leading to higher survivability rate among combat casualties. Caring for the frontline soldiers is one of the thrusts of Bautista as Army Chief. He pushed for the full implementation of this project upon assuming command over a year ago.
The Forward Support Medical Companies (FSMC) is assigned to the Service Support Battalion of the Infantry Division, and is composed of eight officers, 48 enlisted personnel, and three medical retainers. The FSMC provides medical staff advice and assistance as required on an area basis to all units in the brigade’s area of responsibility. It also provides unit-level forward medical support to units without organic medical support. The FSMC’s relevance to the military cannot be measured as time and again, their skills and expertise have saved hundreds of lives of both soldiers and rebels during combats, especially at times when evacuation is not possible due to terrain and environmental conditions.
100 turn up at funeral of suspected JI militant
From Asia One News (Dec 21): 100 turn up at funeral of suspected JI militant
PONTIAN - The family of suspected Jemaah Islamiyah militant Mohd Noor Fikrie Abd Kahar who was shot dead in the Philippines cannot accept that he was an extremist. According to Mohd Noor Fikrie's brother Mohd Noor Hafiz, 24, his brother was a soft spoken man who cared for his three young children and was always ready with a smile. "I still cannot believe that he was part of a militant group as it was not like him to hold grudges against anyone," he said at the burial ceremony of Mohd Noor Fikrie at Tanah Wakaf Perkuburan Islam Kampung Parit Hj Abdul Rahman in Benut here.
Some 100 people, mostly Mohd Noor Fikrie's relatives and close friends, attended the funeral despite a slight rain on early Thursday morning. Mohd Noor Fikrie's body arrived at Masjid Jamek Temenggong Daeng Abdul Rahman at 5.30am from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) after arriving from the Philippines at 1am on the same day. Among the family members who attended the ceremony was his former wife Siti Sarah Raihana with their three young children Aina Sofia, six, Aisah Nadiya, five, and Yani Izzati, four.
The 26-year-old was shot dead by Davao police last Friday night after they received intelligence that he had a bomb and was planning a terrorist attack. Mohd Noor Fikrie and his Filipina Muslim convert wife, Annabella Nieva Lee, checked out of the Sampaguita Hotel when they were cornered by local police. He tried to flee with a backpack containing a bomb and a mobile detonation device, which he threatened to set off if the police made any move to arrest him but he was shot dead by police while his wife was arrested and is currently being detained.
http://news.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Malaysia/Story/A1Story20121221-390893.html
PONTIAN - The family of suspected Jemaah Islamiyah militant Mohd Noor Fikrie Abd Kahar who was shot dead in the Philippines cannot accept that he was an extremist. According to Mohd Noor Fikrie's brother Mohd Noor Hafiz, 24, his brother was a soft spoken man who cared for his three young children and was always ready with a smile. "I still cannot believe that he was part of a militant group as it was not like him to hold grudges against anyone," he said at the burial ceremony of Mohd Noor Fikrie at Tanah Wakaf Perkuburan Islam Kampung Parit Hj Abdul Rahman in Benut here.
Some 100 people, mostly Mohd Noor Fikrie's relatives and close friends, attended the funeral despite a slight rain on early Thursday morning. Mohd Noor Fikrie's body arrived at Masjid Jamek Temenggong Daeng Abdul Rahman at 5.30am from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) after arriving from the Philippines at 1am on the same day. Among the family members who attended the ceremony was his former wife Siti Sarah Raihana with their three young children Aina Sofia, six, Aisah Nadiya, five, and Yani Izzati, four.
The 26-year-old was shot dead by Davao police last Friday night after they received intelligence that he had a bomb and was planning a terrorist attack. Mohd Noor Fikrie and his Filipina Muslim convert wife, Annabella Nieva Lee, checked out of the Sampaguita Hotel when they were cornered by local police. He tried to flee with a backpack containing a bomb and a mobile detonation device, which he threatened to set off if the police made any move to arrest him but he was shot dead by police while his wife was arrested and is currently being detained.
http://news.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Malaysia/Story/A1Story20121221-390893.html
Op/Ed: Fighting Terrorism
Op/Ed piece in the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Dec 21): Fighting Terrorism (By Menardo Wenceslao)
AN operative of the Jemaah Islamiyah met his tragic end in the hands of Davao City police SWAT force. Mohd Fikrie Abd Kahar, a native of Malacca, Malaysia, sneaked into the southern capital in the advent of the Christmas holiday when much of the city is in the celebration mood. Davao, which is the commercial and communications center in Mindanao, has established quite sophisticated tripping points that monitors and reports movements of suspicious characters. This is a basic intelligence network that involves private citizens in various critical areas in the city where suspects may find ingress and possible areas where they might seek refuge. This web of listening posts was laid out when terrorists exploded improvised bombs at the vicinity of the Davao City Airport and then the seaport in Sasa. It was to be used later against organized crime and drug syndicates. If Davao City earned the distinction of being the most peaceful and orderly and livable city in the country, this can be attributed to the tripping points which then City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte had established.
Despite its sophistication moreover, elements like Jemaah Islamiyah can slip through the perimeter of the city. Nevertheless, the next ring of intelligence network could be a big challenge to terrorist elements. At this point, we cannot divulge how the intelligence community worked out the sophistry of its drive against the like of JIs. It must have surprised Fikrie how the police hounds kept track of his movement. His cohorts must have also been surprised how Fikrie was skillfully dealt with by police operatives. We believe that there are remnants of JIs who are still lurking not only in Mindanao but also in Metro Manila and other major capitals in Asia. While these militants claim to be Islamic crusaders, their ways are in fact, un-Islamic and they are being condemned by Imams worldwide.
On the heels of the neutralization of Fikrie, Malaysian authorities issued a statement expressing grave concern on the subversive activities and threats of militants and terrorist groups. Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Tun Hussein declared that because of the terrorists’ threats on the country’s peace and security, they always cooperate closely with the security authorities of other countries in ensuring the security of their own country but also of the region. Malaysia is not saying this without basis. It is a given that while these militants are purportedly after the enemies of Islam, the truth is most of the victims of their terroritic activities are actually Muslims. This is the reality in Indonesia and in Arab countries.
In Mindanao, Jemaah Islamiyah and Abu Sayyaf Guerillas have inflicted so much physical harm on civilian communities in the island provinces of Basilan and Sulu and in Central Mindanao. In the ensuing military and police campaign, thousands of Christians and Muslim inhabitants are displaced. The more the casualty and the louder the cry of agony of the wounded, the more they derive pleasure and reward from their evil deed. Terrorism is a modern-day crime. It is vicious and diabolic. It can be carried out by a few but can harm a thousand. Fikrie attempted to carry out a mission of detonating an improvised explosive device in a crowd but he was stopped by a marksman who felled him before he can create havoc. Terrorist might try another adventurism but the alarm had been sounded and the guards are up.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/opinion/2012/12/21/wenceslao-fighting-terrorism-259548#
AN operative of the Jemaah Islamiyah met his tragic end in the hands of Davao City police SWAT force. Mohd Fikrie Abd Kahar, a native of Malacca, Malaysia, sneaked into the southern capital in the advent of the Christmas holiday when much of the city is in the celebration mood. Davao, which is the commercial and communications center in Mindanao, has established quite sophisticated tripping points that monitors and reports movements of suspicious characters. This is a basic intelligence network that involves private citizens in various critical areas in the city where suspects may find ingress and possible areas where they might seek refuge. This web of listening posts was laid out when terrorists exploded improvised bombs at the vicinity of the Davao City Airport and then the seaport in Sasa. It was to be used later against organized crime and drug syndicates. If Davao City earned the distinction of being the most peaceful and orderly and livable city in the country, this can be attributed to the tripping points which then City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte had established.
Despite its sophistication moreover, elements like Jemaah Islamiyah can slip through the perimeter of the city. Nevertheless, the next ring of intelligence network could be a big challenge to terrorist elements. At this point, we cannot divulge how the intelligence community worked out the sophistry of its drive against the like of JIs. It must have surprised Fikrie how the police hounds kept track of his movement. His cohorts must have also been surprised how Fikrie was skillfully dealt with by police operatives. We believe that there are remnants of JIs who are still lurking not only in Mindanao but also in Metro Manila and other major capitals in Asia. While these militants claim to be Islamic crusaders, their ways are in fact, un-Islamic and they are being condemned by Imams worldwide.
On the heels of the neutralization of Fikrie, Malaysian authorities issued a statement expressing grave concern on the subversive activities and threats of militants and terrorist groups. Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Tun Hussein declared that because of the terrorists’ threats on the country’s peace and security, they always cooperate closely with the security authorities of other countries in ensuring the security of their own country but also of the region. Malaysia is not saying this without basis. It is a given that while these militants are purportedly after the enemies of Islam, the truth is most of the victims of their terroritic activities are actually Muslims. This is the reality in Indonesia and in Arab countries.
In Mindanao, Jemaah Islamiyah and Abu Sayyaf Guerillas have inflicted so much physical harm on civilian communities in the island provinces of Basilan and Sulu and in Central Mindanao. In the ensuing military and police campaign, thousands of Christians and Muslim inhabitants are displaced. The more the casualty and the louder the cry of agony of the wounded, the more they derive pleasure and reward from their evil deed. Terrorism is a modern-day crime. It is vicious and diabolic. It can be carried out by a few but can harm a thousand. Fikrie attempted to carry out a mission of detonating an improvised explosive device in a crowd but he was stopped by a marksman who felled him before he can create havoc. Terrorist might try another adventurism but the alarm had been sounded and the guards are up.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/opinion/2012/12/21/wenceslao-fighting-terrorism-259548#
AFP marks 'more meaningful' 77th year with new modernization act
From the Sun Star (Dec 21): AFP marks 'more meaningful' 77th year with new modernization act
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) celebrated its 77th founding anniversary on Friday with a pronouncement from the Commander-In-Chief himself that new and modern equipment for government troops will be used soon. In his speech during the anniversary celebration at Camp Aguinaldo, President Benigno Aquino III said the organization's 77th year is "more meaningful" due to the recent signing of the New AFP Modernization Act. "Ito ang susi tungo sa mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapagkakatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng ating kasundaluhan. Wala pong ibang paglalaanan ng pitumpu’t limang bilyong pisong pondo sa susunod na limang taon kundi para sa mga bagong kagamitan at kinakailangang kasanayan ng Sandatahang Lakas," Aquino said. The President said better weapons and force protection equipment will also be used by soldiers for their duties.
On December 11, Aquino signed into law Republic Act (RA) 10349, which amends RA 7898 or the AFP Modernization Act, extending the program for another 15 years. It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation subject to the capacity of the Department of National Defense to utilize and implement the program in accordance with the Defense System of Management. The new law exempts certain major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms from public bidding. It also exempts from value-added tax and customs duties the sale and importation of weapons, equipment and ammunition to the AFP which are directly and exclusively used for its projects, undertakings, activities and programs. RA 10349 also institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders. It also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the DND as well as multi-year contracts
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2012/12/21/afp-marks-more-meaningful-77th-year-new-modernization-act-259500
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) celebrated its 77th founding anniversary on Friday with a pronouncement from the Commander-In-Chief himself that new and modern equipment for government troops will be used soon. In his speech during the anniversary celebration at Camp Aguinaldo, President Benigno Aquino III said the organization's 77th year is "more meaningful" due to the recent signing of the New AFP Modernization Act. "Ito ang susi tungo sa mas moderno, mas matatag, at mas mapagkakatiwalaang kabanata sa kasaysayan ng ating kasundaluhan. Wala pong ibang paglalaanan ng pitumpu’t limang bilyong pisong pondo sa susunod na limang taon kundi para sa mga bagong kagamitan at kinakailangang kasanayan ng Sandatahang Lakas," Aquino said. The President said better weapons and force protection equipment will also be used by soldiers for their duties.
On December 11, Aquino signed into law Republic Act (RA) 10349, which amends RA 7898 or the AFP Modernization Act, extending the program for another 15 years. It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation subject to the capacity of the Department of National Defense to utilize and implement the program in accordance with the Defense System of Management. The new law exempts certain major defense purchases such as aircraft, vessels, tanks, armored vehicles, communications equipment and high-powered firearms from public bidding. It also exempts from value-added tax and customs duties the sale and importation of weapons, equipment and ammunition to the AFP which are directly and exclusively used for its projects, undertakings, activities and programs. RA 10349 also institutionalizes the defense system of management, which incorporates a collegial and collaborative planning and decision-making process by senior defense and military leaders. It also allows additional funding from public-private partnerships entered into by the DND as well as multi-year contracts
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2012/12/21/afp-marks-more-meaningful-77th-year-new-modernization-act-259500
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