From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 2): Try us, says visiting French Navy commander
This visiting French Navy commander says the Philippines need not put its eggs in one basket as it rebuilds its defense capability, or rely on hand-me-downs from the Americans.
Cmdr. Frédéric Daumas said on Wednesday night Aquino administration might consider looking at other sources of military equipment other than its traditional allies such as the United States.
The commanding officer of the frigate Prairial said in an interview aboard the multimission maritime surveillance vessel docked at the port of Manila he was hopeful the Philippines would give the French a shot at supplying vessels to its naval force, one ill-equipped to protect the country’s vast coastline and economic zone.
“It will be a good idea to have procurements from other countries,” he said, not just from the United States. “It’s not to say that they are not our best ally, because they are the best ally of everybody. But you don’t need to have only one ally, and you don’t need to put all your eggs in the same basket,” Daumas said.
He made the statement when asked what a ship like the Prairial could offer the Philippines compared to one from, say, the United States.
The Philippine Navy’s newest frigates, the BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, were acquisitions from the United States, both refitted as Navy ships after decades of use by the US Coast Guard.
“I think you already have a lot of American equipment. Most of your ships are coming from the American Navy, second-hand ships. I think it is good to have different ways of working, different procedures, different organizations, and if you have only one major partner, probably you deprive yourself of having a variety of points of view, a variety of partnerships,” he said.
He said the Prairial was designed for low- or medium-intensity missions. “It’s not a very big cruiser or a destroyer but is very well-adapted for what we have to do and maybe for what the Filipino Navy would like to do in the coming years to patrol more and more in the islands and regionally,” said Daumas.
Based in the French Polynesian island of Tahiti, the Prairial is here on a five-day goodwill visit that ends Friday. Among a fleet of six sister ships of the French Navy, the vessel arrived in Manila on Monday. It last dropped anchor here nine years ago.
The Philippine Navy was expected to hold basic at-sea exercises with some of the 94 French sailors of the Prairial Friday, pursuing a 15-year-old aide-mémoire signed between the two naval forces “to cooperate, to better know each other, to exchange information,” said Daumas.
Also part of the mission, he said, was to show the Philippines what the Prairial, a 94-meter long-range, diesel-powered vessel, could do and how it could fit into the country’s needs. He said France was among nations now bidding to supply ships to the Philippines, but conceded he was not privy to the progress in talks.
What is being offered to the Philippines, he said, is an upgraded version of the 22-year-old vessel, including a better radar system and an expanded hangar to accommodate more embarked helicopters. Currently, the frigate could carry one helicopter—the French-made Alouette III.
Manila is the second stop in the Prairial’s fourth-month deployment in the Pacific, which began in Guam. It is also scheduled to visit China, Japan and Korea, with the tour culminating in the ship’s participation in the 20-nation Rim of the Pacific Exercise in Hawaii later this year.
Daumas said the French Navy’s port visits and engagements in international drills were part of the common goal of protecting freedom of navigation in the Pacific area, an issue also of high concern for the Philippines amid maritime disputes with China.
“The freedom of navigation is something which is very important, which comes from the Middle Ages and which needs to go on and on. So, of course, we do not want to escalate any crisis or to create any diplomatic incident, but we want to reaffirm that we apply the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and that with all our partners, we have a common understanding on what needs to be done,” Daumas said.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/103327/try-us-says-visiting-french-navy-commander
Thursday, May 1, 2014
US juggling ‘too many’ humanitarian crises worldwide
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 2): US juggling ‘too many’ humanitarian crises worldwide
The United States is contending with too many global humanitarian crises at once to comprehensively fund relief efforts, the State Department told Congress Thursday, urging other nations to step up.
The aid landscape this year looked particularly challenging given the emergencies in South Sudan and the Central African Republic (CAR), where brutal rebellions and ethno-religious violence have left thousands of people dead, displaced millions and pushed countless more to the brink of famine.
“Thanks to Congress, we have appropriations to do more this year, but as you know we are contending with too many humanitarian emergencies,” Assistant Secretary of State Anne Richard, who oversees population, refugees and migration issues, told a House hearing on the CAR.
Some 2,000 people have been killed and nearly a million displaced since ethnic and religious strife swept the Central African Republic in late 2013, according to the State Department.
It is coordinating some $67 million in humanitarian aid for CAR this year, and in mid-April the United Nations called for $274 million to address humanitarian needs in the region related to the crisis there.
But the donor community risks its aid being spread too thin on the ground.
“Unrest in CAR is happening at the same time as upheaval and violence in South Sudan and widespread conflict in Syria,” Richards told a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on Africa and global health.
Philippines’ devastating typhoon
Other major crises demanding world attention: continuing unrest in Ukraine, Mali’s refugees, the aftermath of the Philippines’ devastating typhoon, renewed violence in Darfur, and war-weary Afghanistan.
“It’s a very difficult situation,” with key aid groups like World Food Program stretched thin, said Richard, who traveled to CAR in April and heard testimonies from victims of brutal, spiralling violence.
Congressman Christopher Smith, who chairs the subcommittee, complained that some aid groups operating in CAR were doing so on an “absolute shoestring,” and that it was imperative to boost funding to such groups.
Richard said expanding the donor pool—such as in the Syria conflict, when Gulf states engaged on the humanitarian front—was a priority.
“We would like to see more countries who haven’t been traditional donors join us,” she said.
Congress appropriated $1.3 billion for total US Agency for International Development operations for 2014, about $215 million less than the 2013 level.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/103333/us-juggling-too-many-humanitarian-crises-worldwide
The United States is contending with too many global humanitarian crises at once to comprehensively fund relief efforts, the State Department told Congress Thursday, urging other nations to step up.
The aid landscape this year looked particularly challenging given the emergencies in South Sudan and the Central African Republic (CAR), where brutal rebellions and ethno-religious violence have left thousands of people dead, displaced millions and pushed countless more to the brink of famine.
“Thanks to Congress, we have appropriations to do more this year, but as you know we are contending with too many humanitarian emergencies,” Assistant Secretary of State Anne Richard, who oversees population, refugees and migration issues, told a House hearing on the CAR.
Some 2,000 people have been killed and nearly a million displaced since ethnic and religious strife swept the Central African Republic in late 2013, according to the State Department.
It is coordinating some $67 million in humanitarian aid for CAR this year, and in mid-April the United Nations called for $274 million to address humanitarian needs in the region related to the crisis there.
But the donor community risks its aid being spread too thin on the ground.
“Unrest in CAR is happening at the same time as upheaval and violence in South Sudan and widespread conflict in Syria,” Richards told a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on Africa and global health.
Philippines’ devastating typhoon
Other major crises demanding world attention: continuing unrest in Ukraine, Mali’s refugees, the aftermath of the Philippines’ devastating typhoon, renewed violence in Darfur, and war-weary Afghanistan.
“It’s a very difficult situation,” with key aid groups like World Food Program stretched thin, said Richard, who traveled to CAR in April and heard testimonies from victims of brutal, spiralling violence.
Congressman Christopher Smith, who chairs the subcommittee, complained that some aid groups operating in CAR were doing so on an “absolute shoestring,” and that it was imperative to boost funding to such groups.
Richard said expanding the donor pool—such as in the Syria conflict, when Gulf states engaged on the humanitarian front—was a priority.
“We would like to see more countries who haven’t been traditional donors join us,” she said.
Congress appropriated $1.3 billion for total US Agency for International Development operations for 2014, about $215 million less than the 2013 level.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/103333/us-juggling-too-many-humanitarian-crises-worldwide
China, Russia to hold naval drills
From the Manila Standard Today (May 1): China, Russia to hold naval drills
BEIJING—China and Russia will carry out joint naval exercises in the East China Sea later this month, state media reported Thursday, with China and Japan embroiled in a territorial dispute in the area.
The drills, to take place off Shanghai, are scheduled for late in the month, the official Xinhua news agency said in a brief report, citing China’s defence ministry.
The drills were described as “regular exercises” and come after the two countries held similar manoeuvres last year off Russia’s Far East coast, Xinhua said.
China and Japan both claim a small, uninhabited archipelago in the East China Sea, administered by Japan as the Senkaku Islands, but which China calls the Diaoyu Islands.
The dispute has simmered for decades, but tensions have spiked since 2012 when Tokyo purchased islands in the chain it did not already own. Beijing has taken an increasingly hard line on the issue ever since.
Ships and aircraft from both countries regularly patrol waters around the contested territory and have on occasion come perilously close to armed clashes.
The location of the planned drill was described by Xinhua as “off Shanghai”, which would be well north of the disputed area. The contested zone lies to the northeast of Taiwan and to the southwest of Japan’s southern island of Okinawa.
Japan and Russia also have a long-running territorial dispute centred on four islands off Japan’s northern coast seized by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/05/01/china-russia-to-hold-naval-drills/
BEIJING—China and Russia will carry out joint naval exercises in the East China Sea later this month, state media reported Thursday, with China and Japan embroiled in a territorial dispute in the area.
The drills, to take place off Shanghai, are scheduled for late in the month, the official Xinhua news agency said in a brief report, citing China’s defence ministry.
The drills were described as “regular exercises” and come after the two countries held similar manoeuvres last year off Russia’s Far East coast, Xinhua said.
China and Japan both claim a small, uninhabited archipelago in the East China Sea, administered by Japan as the Senkaku Islands, but which China calls the Diaoyu Islands.
The dispute has simmered for decades, but tensions have spiked since 2012 when Tokyo purchased islands in the chain it did not already own. Beijing has taken an increasingly hard line on the issue ever since.
Ships and aircraft from both countries regularly patrol waters around the contested territory and have on occasion come perilously close to armed clashes.
The location of the planned drill was described by Xinhua as “off Shanghai”, which would be well north of the disputed area. The contested zone lies to the northeast of Taiwan and to the southwest of Japan’s southern island of Okinawa.
Japan and Russia also have a long-running territorial dispute centred on four islands off Japan’s northern coast seized by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/05/01/china-russia-to-hold-naval-drills/
Abu casualties mount after 3-hour firefight
From the Manila Standard Today (May 2): Abu casualties mount after 3-hour firefight
The Abu Sayyaf Group suffered more casualties during a three-hour intense fighting with the military at a known lair in Patikul, Sulu, thus bringing to 25 the number of its dead members since the clashes broke out on Tuesday.
The military confirmed that Yasser Igasan, a prominent leader of the bandit group, was wounded during the clash between a contingent of the 2nd Marine Brigade and some 300 ASG elements at Sitio Kan Jimao, Barrage Buhanginan, Patikul.
Capt Ryan Lacuesta, civilian-military operations chief of the 2nd Marine Brigade said 25 militants were killed in the bloody clash after the bandits tried to retake their camp.
Lacuesta said that the ASG men were led by Commanders Idan Susukan, Ninok Sappari, also known as Igasan and Radullan Sahiron, the top leader of the ASG.
Lt. Gen Rustico Guerrero, Western Mindanao Commander chief, confirmed that 20 of the 25 dead ASG rebels have been identified by the residents of Patikul. A soldier was also slain while 17 marine soldiers, including two junior officers were wounded but their names were temporarily withheld pending notifications of their next of kin.
The Marines fired 105mm artillery and 81 mortars, backed by MG529 attack helicopters to flush out the ASG from their underground bunkers.
The ASG attack was meant to avenge the killing of 18 of their comrades in Basilan battle with army troopers and retake their camps with makeshit huts that was seized by the military during Monday’s firefight, the official said.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/05/02/abu-casualties-mount-after-3-hour-firefight/
The Abu Sayyaf Group suffered more casualties during a three-hour intense fighting with the military at a known lair in Patikul, Sulu, thus bringing to 25 the number of its dead members since the clashes broke out on Tuesday.
The military confirmed that Yasser Igasan, a prominent leader of the bandit group, was wounded during the clash between a contingent of the 2nd Marine Brigade and some 300 ASG elements at Sitio Kan Jimao, Barrage Buhanginan, Patikul.
Capt Ryan Lacuesta, civilian-military operations chief of the 2nd Marine Brigade said 25 militants were killed in the bloody clash after the bandits tried to retake their camp.
Lacuesta said that the ASG men were led by Commanders Idan Susukan, Ninok Sappari, also known as Igasan and Radullan Sahiron, the top leader of the ASG.
Lt. Gen Rustico Guerrero, Western Mindanao Commander chief, confirmed that 20 of the 25 dead ASG rebels have been identified by the residents of Patikul. A soldier was also slain while 17 marine soldiers, including two junior officers were wounded but their names were temporarily withheld pending notifications of their next of kin.
The Marines fired 105mm artillery and 81 mortars, backed by MG529 attack helicopters to flush out the ASG from their underground bunkers.
The ASG attack was meant to avenge the killing of 18 of their comrades in Basilan battle with army troopers and retake their camps with makeshit huts that was seized by the military during Monday’s firefight, the official said.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/05/02/abu-casualties-mount-after-3-hour-firefight/
Timeline: US-PHL security relations, from bases to visiting forces
From GMA News (Apr 28): Timeline: US-PHL security relations, from bases to visiting forces
After gaining independence from American colonizers, the Philippine government entered into its first defense agreement with the United States in 1947. Since then, both sides have inked several security deals including the latest one – the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement – signed Monday hours before the arrival of US President Barack Obama in the country.
This timeline traces the history of military agreements between both sides, from the now-defunct bases agreement to the rotational presence of US forces that some protesters have criticized as an infringement on Philippine sovereignty.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/358660/news/specialreports/timeline-us-phl-security-relations-from-bases-to-visiting-forces
After gaining independence from American colonizers, the Philippine government entered into its first defense agreement with the United States in 1947. Since then, both sides have inked several security deals including the latest one – the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement – signed Monday hours before the arrival of US President Barack Obama in the country.
This timeline traces the history of military agreements between both sides, from the now-defunct bases agreement to the rotational presence of US forces that some protesters have criticized as an infringement on Philippine sovereignty.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/358660/news/specialreports/timeline-us-phl-security-relations-from-bases-to-visiting-forces
Bandits, Islamic militants, still active in Mindanao–US report
From the Business Mirror (May 1): Bandits, Islamic militants, still active in Mindanao–US report
THE Armed Forces should exert more effort to curtail the growth of bandit and terrorist groups in the country that are still scattered in areas around Mindanao, particularly in Sulu and Basilan, despite a drastic decrease in membership.
A country report on terrorism that was issued by the US State Department noted that while the memberships of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and even the Jema’ah Islamiyah (JI) have been successfully pared downed through the country’s joint efforts with the US, bandits and terrorists are still present in some areas in the South.
“Abu Sayyaf Group members, numbering a few hundred, were known to be present in remote areas in Mindanao, especially on the islands of Basilan and Sulu,” the report, which was released on April 30, said.
“JI members, of whom there are only a small number remaining, are in a few isolated pockets of Mindanao,” the report added.
The ASG and the JI are both linked with the international terror group al-Qaeda. The Abu Sayyaf, however, has resorted to banditry like kidnapping for ransom to raise funds.
The country report, which examined the state of terrorism in countries around the world, said the country’s geography abetted the existence of terrorism, although ongoing counterterrorism operations were also successful.
“The geographical composition of the Philippines, spread out over 7,107 islands, made it difficult for the central government to maintain a presence in all areas,” it said.
“Counterterrorism operations over the past 12 years, however, have been successful at isolating the location and constraining the activities of transnational terrorists,” it added.
The report cited the Sulu archipelago and even the Sulawesi Sea as a principal problem.
“The numerous islands in the Sulawesi Sea and the Sulu Archipelago make it a difficult region for authorities to monitor. The range of licit and illicit activities that occur there—including worker migration, tourism and trade—pose additional challenges to identifying and countering the terrorist threat,” it said.
While the US State Department noted that Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines had improved their efforts to control their shared maritime boundaries, including through the US-funded Coast Watch South radar network, the expanse remained difficult to control.
“Surveillance improved, but remained partial at best, and traditional smuggling and piracy groups have provided an effective cover for terrorist activities, including the movement of personnel, equipment and funds,” it said.
Overall, it also said Southeast Asia “is vulnerable to exploitation by illicit traffickers and proliferators given the high volume of global trade that ships through the region, as well as the existence of smuggling and proliferation networks.”
“Weak strategic trade controls, legal and regulatory frameworks, inadequate maritime law enforcement and security capabilities, as well as emerging and reemerging infectious disease and burgeoning bioscience capacity, make Southeast Asia an area of concern for weapons of mass-destruction proliferation,” it added.
Intel officer, civilian die in NPA ambush in Sorsogon
From the Bicol Today (May 1): Intel officer, civilian die in NPA ambush in Sorsogon
Photo courtesy Wikipedia
LEGAZPI CITY, 1May2014 — A Philippine Army intelligence officer and a civilian died while another military man was seriously wounded in an ambush staged by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Wednesday morning in Barangay San Antonio, Casiguran, Sorsogon.
A police report identified the dead military officer as Cpl. Edison Capital, 31, married and a member of the Alpha Company, 30th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, and the civilian casualty as Anthony Habalo, who was hit by a stray bullet.
Being treated at the Sorsogon Provincial Hospital is Pfc. Jenly Balbis, 26, single, of Pili, Camarines Sur, and also an intelligence officer of the 30th IB.
Based on the report, the ambush occurred at about 8:30 a.m. while the two intelligence officers were patrolling the area on board a motorcycle to check on the security in the area where they have their camp.
The rebels, who were in an ambush position, fired at them — resulting in the death on the spot of Capital and civilian Habalo, who was passing by the area and hit by astray bullet.
The rebels immediately fled to an unknown direction and were pursued by reinforcing government troopers.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/05/01/intel-officer-civilian-die-in-npa-ambush-in-sorsogon/
Photo courtesy Wikipedia
LEGAZPI CITY, 1May2014 — A Philippine Army intelligence officer and a civilian died while another military man was seriously wounded in an ambush staged by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Wednesday morning in Barangay San Antonio, Casiguran, Sorsogon.
A police report identified the dead military officer as Cpl. Edison Capital, 31, married and a member of the Alpha Company, 30th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, and the civilian casualty as Anthony Habalo, who was hit by a stray bullet.
Being treated at the Sorsogon Provincial Hospital is Pfc. Jenly Balbis, 26, single, of Pili, Camarines Sur, and also an intelligence officer of the 30th IB.
Based on the report, the ambush occurred at about 8:30 a.m. while the two intelligence officers were patrolling the area on board a motorcycle to check on the security in the area where they have their camp.
The rebels, who were in an ambush position, fired at them — resulting in the death on the spot of Capital and civilian Habalo, who was passing by the area and hit by astray bullet.
The rebels immediately fled to an unknown direction and were pursued by reinforcing government troopers.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/05/01/intel-officer-civilian-die-in-npa-ambush-in-sorsogon/
SOLCOM spearheads Balikatan 2014 in the Bicol Region
From the Bicol Today (May 2): SOLCOM spearheads Balikatan 2014 in the Bicol Region
The Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) based here and their American military counterparts spearhead this week until May 17 the “Balikatan 2014” or the Joint Civil-Military Task Force (JCMOTF) in conducting humanitarian civic activities in the province of Albay.
The joint military and civilian activities are undertaken through the Command’s 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, 9th Infantry (Spear) Division, Philippine Army, Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) and Tactical Operations Group 5.
Under these arrangements, SOLCOM and US troops conduct various humanitarian and civic activities such as the construction and renovation of school-buildings, medical and veterinary services, medical symposia including training and other cooperative expertise-exchange endeavors in Legazpi City and Guinobatan, Albay.
SOLCOM Commander Lt. General Caesar Ronnie F. Ordoyo said the SOLCOM troops and US counterparts are currently constructing a health center, two-room classroom building, water catchment system and concreting of sidewalk in Malobago Elementary School in Barangay Malobago in Guinobatan.
Another one-room school building in the Doña Mercedes Elementary School also in Guinobatan is a joint civil-military work in progress.
In addition, Lt. Gen. Ordoyo also underscored that the installation of water storage tank and construction of a public rest room will benefit the residents of Barangay Pawa in Legazpi City.
Ordoyo added that another repair and renovation of school building is on-going in Tamaoyan Elementary School in Barangay Tamaoyan also in Legazpi City.
He said the 565th Engineering Construction Battalion of 51st Engineering Brigade, Philippine Army; Air Engineering Wing of the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Navy Engineering Team “Seabees” along with the US engineers are now working shoulder to shoulder to complete these engineering works.
“Besides these infra projects, our troops continuously conduct civil-military symposia by engaging military experts of both the Philippines and United States Armed Forces to share best practices and ideas in order to further develop methods of operations in each area of civil-military operation,” Lt. Gen. Ordoyo explained.
A symposium on cooperative health and community relations was organized with the participation of professional health practitioners in Bicol region in order to promote and encourage multi-sectoral participation in the Balikatan 2014.
The SOLCOM commanding general pointed out that “Balikatan” aims to enhance the capabilities and inter-operability of the AFP and US troops to address significant areas of concern and provide assistance on areas where the need is greatest. The joint military partnership activities will also strengthen humanitarian assistance mechanism through non-traditional approach.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/05/02/solcom-spearheads-balikatan-2014-in-the-bicol-region/
The Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) based here and their American military counterparts spearhead this week until May 17 the “Balikatan 2014” or the Joint Civil-Military Task Force (JCMOTF) in conducting humanitarian civic activities in the province of Albay.
The joint military and civilian activities are undertaken through the Command’s 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, 9th Infantry (Spear) Division, Philippine Army, Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) and Tactical Operations Group 5.
Under these arrangements, SOLCOM and US troops conduct various humanitarian and civic activities such as the construction and renovation of school-buildings, medical and veterinary services, medical symposia including training and other cooperative expertise-exchange endeavors in Legazpi City and Guinobatan, Albay.
SOLCOM Commander Lt. General Caesar Ronnie F. Ordoyo said the SOLCOM troops and US counterparts are currently constructing a health center, two-room classroom building, water catchment system and concreting of sidewalk in Malobago Elementary School in Barangay Malobago in Guinobatan.
Another one-room school building in the Doña Mercedes Elementary School also in Guinobatan is a joint civil-military work in progress.
In addition, Lt. Gen. Ordoyo also underscored that the installation of water storage tank and construction of a public rest room will benefit the residents of Barangay Pawa in Legazpi City.
Ordoyo added that another repair and renovation of school building is on-going in Tamaoyan Elementary School in Barangay Tamaoyan also in Legazpi City.
He said the 565th Engineering Construction Battalion of 51st Engineering Brigade, Philippine Army; Air Engineering Wing of the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Navy Engineering Team “Seabees” along with the US engineers are now working shoulder to shoulder to complete these engineering works.
“Besides these infra projects, our troops continuously conduct civil-military symposia by engaging military experts of both the Philippines and United States Armed Forces to share best practices and ideas in order to further develop methods of operations in each area of civil-military operation,” Lt. Gen. Ordoyo explained.
A symposium on cooperative health and community relations was organized with the participation of professional health practitioners in Bicol region in order to promote and encourage multi-sectoral participation in the Balikatan 2014.
The SOLCOM commanding general pointed out that “Balikatan” aims to enhance the capabilities and inter-operability of the AFP and US troops to address significant areas of concern and provide assistance on areas where the need is greatest. The joint military partnership activities will also strengthen humanitarian assistance mechanism through non-traditional approach.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/05/02/solcom-spearheads-balikatan-2014-in-the-bicol-region/
China: Keep Pacific Ocean 'pacific'
From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (May 2): China: Keep Pacific Ocean 'pacific'
China called on the Philippines and the United States to ensure the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) signed between the two treaty allies on Monday is justifiable and consistent with the principle of regional peace and stability.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the statement on Wednesday in response to questions on whether China believed the EDCA, which increases US military presence in the Philippines, is an attempt by the US to contain Beijing.
“We also maintain that upholding peace and stability of the Asia Pacific is in the interest of all parties of the region and requires common efforts of all. It is justifiable for people to ask that any agreement between the US and the Philippines be consistent with this principle and not at the cost of mutual trust between regional countries and regional peace and stability,” Qin said in a press conference.
US President Barack Obama wrapped up his four-nation Asia tour on Tuesday after visiting the Philippines and the signing of the EDCA.
Obama said the Philippines will not stand alone when confronting external attacks, as the US is firm in its commitment to help its ally under a 63-year-old mutual defense agreement.
The new defense deal seeks to advance the implementation of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines by strengthening external defense and maritime security.
“With regard to President Obama’s visit to the four Asian countries, we have expounded on our principled position on China-related issues. We believe that relevant parties should all make positive efforts to enhance mutual trust and cooperation and promote common peace, stability and prosperity in this region, rather than the opposite. The Pacific Ocean should be kept pacific,” Qin said.
The Philippines said on Wednesday the US is obliged to help the country in the event its troops or its territory is attacked, including in the disputed waters in the South China Sea.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said the Mutual Defense Treaty with the US would come into play if any Philippine territory in the Pacific area comes under attack.
Del Rosario pointed out that the US, in a diplomatic letter in 1999, had affirmed the South China Sea is considered part of the Pacific area.
Harassment
On the other hand, President Aquino slammed the foreign blockade of Ayungin Shoal that is making it difficult for the Philippines to guard its territorial domain in the West Philippine Sea.
Aquino pointed out the Filipino troops in Ayungin Shoal have been constantly harassed by foreign ships.
“You might have heard of this. Nine Marines led by First Lt. Mike Pelotera were supposed to be at Ayungin for only three months but they stayed there for almost five months. The reason: foreign ships repeatedly blocked our navy ship bringing in troops to replace them, shooing us away from a territory that is not theirs but is rightfully ours,” Aquino said during the command turnover of the Navy leadership at Sangley Point in Cavite on Wednesday.
Ayungin Shoal is within the country’s 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and currently being guarded by a contingent of Marines stationed at the grounded Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre.
Aquino lauded the troops in the Sierra Madre for being steadfast in guarding the shoal amid China’s aggressive claim over the area since last year.
Two Chinese coast guard vessels deployed at Ayungin since May last year tried to block a Filipino vessel bringing in food and fresh troops to relieve their colleagues in the Sierra Madre last month.
Troops on forward deployment in Ayungin as well as those stationed in the country’s regime of islands in the region are rotated every three months but the “Ayungin 9” remained at the Sierra Madre for an extended time due to the Chinese naval blockade.
“Aboard our BRP Sierra Madre, in a real sense of the word, they live in a water world because wherever they may look, it’s all water around them.
Yet, despite these challenges and sacrifices, being away from their families and sleeping in the cold of the night, they continue to perform their duties,” the President said.
Also known as Second Thomas Shoal, Ayungin has become a new flashpoint in the South China Sea, which according to regional security experts, is a vital area.
The maritime hotspots in the area have been spawned by China’s encompassing territorial claim to almost the entire region and deploying its surveillance vessels and warships as it aggressively engages other countries laying claim to the islands, specifically the Philippines and Vietnam.
“China is becoming increasingly assertive in its claims and its recent move to block Philippine boats carrying supplies to their troops stationed in the Second Thomas Shoal is indicative of this trend,” said The Diplomat, an international current affairs magazine for the Asia-Pacific region in its report the other day.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/02/14/china-keep-pacific-ocean-pacific
China called on the Philippines and the United States to ensure the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) signed between the two treaty allies on Monday is justifiable and consistent with the principle of regional peace and stability.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the statement on Wednesday in response to questions on whether China believed the EDCA, which increases US military presence in the Philippines, is an attempt by the US to contain Beijing.
“We also maintain that upholding peace and stability of the Asia Pacific is in the interest of all parties of the region and requires common efforts of all. It is justifiable for people to ask that any agreement between the US and the Philippines be consistent with this principle and not at the cost of mutual trust between regional countries and regional peace and stability,” Qin said in a press conference.
US President Barack Obama wrapped up his four-nation Asia tour on Tuesday after visiting the Philippines and the signing of the EDCA.
Obama said the Philippines will not stand alone when confronting external attacks, as the US is firm in its commitment to help its ally under a 63-year-old mutual defense agreement.
The new defense deal seeks to advance the implementation of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines by strengthening external defense and maritime security.
“With regard to President Obama’s visit to the four Asian countries, we have expounded on our principled position on China-related issues. We believe that relevant parties should all make positive efforts to enhance mutual trust and cooperation and promote common peace, stability and prosperity in this region, rather than the opposite. The Pacific Ocean should be kept pacific,” Qin said.
The Philippines said on Wednesday the US is obliged to help the country in the event its troops or its territory is attacked, including in the disputed waters in the South China Sea.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said the Mutual Defense Treaty with the US would come into play if any Philippine territory in the Pacific area comes under attack.
Del Rosario pointed out that the US, in a diplomatic letter in 1999, had affirmed the South China Sea is considered part of the Pacific area.
Harassment
On the other hand, President Aquino slammed the foreign blockade of Ayungin Shoal that is making it difficult for the Philippines to guard its territorial domain in the West Philippine Sea.
Aquino pointed out the Filipino troops in Ayungin Shoal have been constantly harassed by foreign ships.
“You might have heard of this. Nine Marines led by First Lt. Mike Pelotera were supposed to be at Ayungin for only three months but they stayed there for almost five months. The reason: foreign ships repeatedly blocked our navy ship bringing in troops to replace them, shooing us away from a territory that is not theirs but is rightfully ours,” Aquino said during the command turnover of the Navy leadership at Sangley Point in Cavite on Wednesday.
Ayungin Shoal is within the country’s 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and currently being guarded by a contingent of Marines stationed at the grounded Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre.
Aquino lauded the troops in the Sierra Madre for being steadfast in guarding the shoal amid China’s aggressive claim over the area since last year.
Two Chinese coast guard vessels deployed at Ayungin since May last year tried to block a Filipino vessel bringing in food and fresh troops to relieve their colleagues in the Sierra Madre last month.
Troops on forward deployment in Ayungin as well as those stationed in the country’s regime of islands in the region are rotated every three months but the “Ayungin 9” remained at the Sierra Madre for an extended time due to the Chinese naval blockade.
“Aboard our BRP Sierra Madre, in a real sense of the word, they live in a water world because wherever they may look, it’s all water around them.
Yet, despite these challenges and sacrifices, being away from their families and sleeping in the cold of the night, they continue to perform their duties,” the President said.
Also known as Second Thomas Shoal, Ayungin has become a new flashpoint in the South China Sea, which according to regional security experts, is a vital area.
The maritime hotspots in the area have been spawned by China’s encompassing territorial claim to almost the entire region and deploying its surveillance vessels and warships as it aggressively engages other countries laying claim to the islands, specifically the Philippines and Vietnam.
“China is becoming increasingly assertive in its claims and its recent move to block Philippine boats carrying supplies to their troops stationed in the Second Thomas Shoal is indicative of this trend,” said The Diplomat, an international current affairs magazine for the Asia-Pacific region in its report the other day.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/02/14/china-keep-pacific-ocean-pacific
3 soldiers killed in NPA ambush in Ilocos Sur
From ABS-CBN (May 1): 3 soldiers killed in NPA ambush in Ilocos Sur
Three soldiers were killed in an ambush by suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur on Thursday morning, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
Maj. Emmanuel Garcia, civil military operations officer of the AFP's Northern Luzon Command, said soldiers from the 50th Infantry Battalion, on board military vehicles, were on their way to a store when they were ambushed by the rebels in Sitio Daing, Barangay Remedios at around 9 a.m.
Garcia said the soldiers were supposed to buy medicines and water for their May 6-7 medical mission in the villages of Alangtin and Tubtuba in Tubo, Abra.
One soldier was wounded in the attack, he said.
Meanwhile, one soldier was also killed in a firefight with members of the NPA in Maitum, Sarangani on Thursday morning, according to 10th Infantry Division spokesperson Capt. Ernest Carolina.
A clash with the rebel group in Barangay Fatima, Paquibato District, Davao also left four soldiers from the the 69th Infantry Battalion wounded.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/3-soldiers-killed-npa-ambush-ilocos-sur
Three soldiers were killed in an ambush by suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur on Thursday morning, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
Maj. Emmanuel Garcia, civil military operations officer of the AFP's Northern Luzon Command, said soldiers from the 50th Infantry Battalion, on board military vehicles, were on their way to a store when they were ambushed by the rebels in Sitio Daing, Barangay Remedios at around 9 a.m.
Garcia said the soldiers were supposed to buy medicines and water for their May 6-7 medical mission in the villages of Alangtin and Tubtuba in Tubo, Abra.
One soldier was wounded in the attack, he said.
Meanwhile, one soldier was also killed in a firefight with members of the NPA in Maitum, Sarangani on Thursday morning, according to 10th Infantry Division spokesperson Capt. Ernest Carolina.
A clash with the rebel group in Barangay Fatima, Paquibato District, Davao also left four soldiers from the the 69th Infantry Battalion wounded.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/3-soldiers-killed-npa-ambush-ilocos-sur
Wounded soldiers in Sulu receive medals
From ABS-CBN (May 1): Wounded soldiers in Sulu receive medals
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) awarded medals and gave financial assistance to 19 soldiers who were injured in an operation launched against members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sitio Kanjimao, Barangay Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu.
The new Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy, Rear Admiral Jesus C. Millan, and Commander of Western Mindanao Command Lt. Gen Rustico Guerrero officiated the distribution of medals to the wounded soldiers Thursday morning.
In an interview, Millan said he went to Zamboanga City to check on the condition of his men who were injured in the Patikul clash.
He said he is meeting with other Navy officers for an orientation on security operations relating to Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NAVFORWEM)'s area of responsibility.
Guerrero said at least 20 of 25 Abu Sayyaf casualties have been identified. One of the wounded is ASG sub-leader Yasser Igasan.
Guerrero said the recent capture of an ASG camp in in Sitio Kanjimao will affect the bandits' operations since the camp was used to train new recruits and convene members of the group.
He, however, admitted that they are still verifying the figures, all solely dependent on testimonies of villagers who saw the withdrawing members of the ASG after the operation.
On April 28, a Marine was killed while 19 soldiers were wounded during a three-hour gun fight with the Abu Sayyaf Group.
The military said there are still more than 14 kidnap victims being held in Sulu, including two European bird watchers who were abducted in 2012.
Guerrero said all the hostages are alive, according to an intelligence source.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/wounded-soldiers-sulu-receive-medals
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) awarded medals and gave financial assistance to 19 soldiers who were injured in an operation launched against members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sitio Kanjimao, Barangay Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu.
The new Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy, Rear Admiral Jesus C. Millan, and Commander of Western Mindanao Command Lt. Gen Rustico Guerrero officiated the distribution of medals to the wounded soldiers Thursday morning.
In an interview, Millan said he went to Zamboanga City to check on the condition of his men who were injured in the Patikul clash.
He said he is meeting with other Navy officers for an orientation on security operations relating to Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NAVFORWEM)'s area of responsibility.
Guerrero said at least 20 of 25 Abu Sayyaf casualties have been identified. One of the wounded is ASG sub-leader Yasser Igasan.
Guerrero said the recent capture of an ASG camp in in Sitio Kanjimao will affect the bandits' operations since the camp was used to train new recruits and convene members of the group.
He, however, admitted that they are still verifying the figures, all solely dependent on testimonies of villagers who saw the withdrawing members of the ASG after the operation.
On April 28, a Marine was killed while 19 soldiers were wounded during a three-hour gun fight with the Abu Sayyaf Group.
The military said there are still more than 14 kidnap victims being held in Sulu, including two European bird watchers who were abducted in 2012.
Guerrero said all the hostages are alive, according to an intelligence source.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/wounded-soldiers-sulu-receive-medals
Death toll in Abu clashes in Sulu rises to 26
From ABS-CBN (May 1): Death toll in Abu clashes in Sulu rises to 26
The death toll in the clashes between government soldiers and Abu Sayyaf bandits is now at 26, the military said.
Captain Ryan Lacuesta, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 2nd Marine Brigade, said 25 Abu Sayyaf bandits and one Marine soldier were killed in the heavy exchange of fire and grenade in Patikul, Sulu.
The clashes erupted on Tuesday, a day after the Marines seized an Abu Sayyaf stronghold.
Lacuesta said 20 of the slain Abu Sayyaf members have been identified.
The military said the gunfight erupted after the Abu Sayyaf bandits, led by Radulan Sahiron alias Commander Putol, attempted to regain control of the area which had served as a stronghold for the group.
Brig. Gen. Martin Pinto, commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade and Joint Task Force Sulu, said the seized camp was important to Abu Sayyaf because it was being used by the group as a detention area for its kidnap victims and training site for new recruits.
Lacuesta said the military will build its camp on the seized Abu Sayyaf haven, in an attempt to finally contain the group which is blamed for the series of attacks and kidnappings in the south.
The Abu Sayyaf, considered a terrorist group by the United States, was funded using seed money from Al-Qaeda in the 1990s.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/death-toll-abu-clashes-sulu-rises-25
The death toll in the clashes between government soldiers and Abu Sayyaf bandits is now at 26, the military said.
Captain Ryan Lacuesta, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 2nd Marine Brigade, said 25 Abu Sayyaf bandits and one Marine soldier were killed in the heavy exchange of fire and grenade in Patikul, Sulu.
The clashes erupted on Tuesday, a day after the Marines seized an Abu Sayyaf stronghold.
Lacuesta said 20 of the slain Abu Sayyaf members have been identified.
The military said the gunfight erupted after the Abu Sayyaf bandits, led by Radulan Sahiron alias Commander Putol, attempted to regain control of the area which had served as a stronghold for the group.
Brig. Gen. Martin Pinto, commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade and Joint Task Force Sulu, said the seized camp was important to Abu Sayyaf because it was being used by the group as a detention area for its kidnap victims and training site for new recruits.
Lacuesta said the military will build its camp on the seized Abu Sayyaf haven, in an attempt to finally contain the group which is blamed for the series of attacks and kidnappings in the south.
The Abu Sayyaf, considered a terrorist group by the United States, was funded using seed money from Al-Qaeda in the 1990s.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/01/14/death-toll-abu-clashes-sulu-rises-25
Roxas wants report on PMA-PNPA rivalry
From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (May 2): Roxas wants report on PMA-PNPA rivalry
The supposed rivalry between alumni of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) over assignment and promotion in the police organization remains unresolved.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II said he has yet to receive the report from PNP officials.
Roxas ordered the PNP leadership last month to submit to him the list of police officials, their respective positions and whether they are alumni of the PMA or PNPA.
“I haven’t seen any report,” he told The STAR. “But I know ginagawa nila (they’re preparing it). In fact, I met with some members of the alumni of the PNPA. We had some discussions on some data.”
President Aquino also ordered PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima to ensure a “more equitable and proportionate” appointment and promotion of graduates of the PNPA and the PMA.
The President earlier approved the promotion of 10 police officials, eight of them PMA graduates, one from the PNPA and a West Point Academy alumnus.
Roxas denounced the alleged “bata-bata” or patronage system in the PNP, saying there should be a “level playing field” in the promotion and assignment of officers in the police force.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/05/02/14/roxas-wants-report-pma-pnpa-rivalry
The supposed rivalry between alumni of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) over assignment and promotion in the police organization remains unresolved.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II said he has yet to receive the report from PNP officials.
Roxas ordered the PNP leadership last month to submit to him the list of police officials, their respective positions and whether they are alumni of the PMA or PNPA.
“I haven’t seen any report,” he told The STAR. “But I know ginagawa nila (they’re preparing it). In fact, I met with some members of the alumni of the PNPA. We had some discussions on some data.”
President Aquino also ordered PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima to ensure a “more equitable and proportionate” appointment and promotion of graduates of the PNPA and the PMA.
The President earlier approved the promotion of 10 police officials, eight of them PMA graduates, one from the PNPA and a West Point Academy alumnus.
Roxas denounced the alleged “bata-bata” or patronage system in the PNP, saying there should be a “level playing field” in the promotion and assignment of officers in the police force.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/05/02/14/roxas-wants-report-pma-pnpa-rivalry
US soldiers build bridges of friendship in Albay
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): US soldiers build bridges of friendship in Albay
Barely a week of working with villagers in remote communities in Albay, soldiers of the United States Armed Forces have already built bridges of friendship with cooperation of the locals here where they are undertaking a humanitarian mission.
US Army Staff Sgt. Adriane A. Hackleyson and two of his companions in the 84th Engineering Battalion, 643rd Company based in Hawaii, which is currently constructing a clinic in Barangay Malobago in this town, have developed friendship with children when they took time to read a book for them during their break time. Hackleyson and his colleagues -- US Marines SPC Ryan R. Marshell and LCPL Ezequiel E. Santelices of the MWSS 172 Combat Engineering based in Okinawa, Japan – took turns in reading a book for their new-found friends Angel O. Diaz, 11; Chattelyn Pearl Arevalo, 11; and Danna Joy Oliquindo, 11 – all incoming Grade 6 pupils in June at the Malobago Elementary School.
In return, the friendly children here also taught theUS
Army Captain Edward Ellingson, USAF Civil-Military Operations chief, said that in his 25 years in military service, this is his first time for him to engage in humanitarian service as a departure from the usual military work as his job is in air defense artillery, which, he said, means his task is to shoot down enemy aircraft.
“I’m so happy with this mission because we’re able to work with a community where our soldiers have fostered good relationship with the people in Albay and learned a lot from our Filipino counterpart. The building we erected might crumble in the future but the friendship and the memories we gained will be cherished forever,” Ellingson said.
“We’re working together today for a better tomorrow. From the ground, Filipino children are so friendly playing with our soldiers. I’ve been to 23 countries and this is my first time in thePhilippines
The month-long RP-US Balikatan 2014 humanitarian mission in Albay began on Tuesday but in less than a week of working in the remote communities of Guinobatan town andLegazpi City , the US
Col. Curtis Lee, the commander of the Joint Civil Military Operations Task Force and the Balikatan 2014 USAF, said they are working shoulder to shoulder with the Armed Forces of thePhilippines
“You will see our men from the USAF out there in your communities doing engineering projects and working with your medical community personnel, and we want to emphasize that we will be learning as much from you as you are from us. We are all here to share the best practices,” Lee said.
The Balikatan Exercise 2014 is a bilateral activity between the AFP and the USAF focusing on Humanitarian Civic Assistance Programs with two major categories; the Engineering Civic Assistance Program (ENCAP) and Cooperative Healthcare Engagement (CHE), which are aimed to benefit the communities of Legazpi and the town ofGuinobatan
The ENCAP includes construction of classrooms at theMalobago
Elementary School and the Doña Mercedes
Elementary School , construction of a
public comfort room at Barangay Pawa in Legazpi, repairs and improvements in
the Tamaoyan Elementary School
For the CHE program, there will be a health symposium with professional health workers from the Bicol Region, expert exchanges of ideas with barangay health workers, and healthcare engagements with people in Barangay Sinungtan and Barangay Doña Mercedes in Guinobatan, and Barangay Rawis in Legazpi.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=639620
Barely a week of working with villagers in remote communities in Albay, soldiers of the United States Armed Forces have already built bridges of friendship with cooperation of the locals here where they are undertaking a humanitarian mission.
US Army Staff Sgt. Adriane A. Hackleyson and two of his companions in the 84th Engineering Battalion, 643rd Company based in Hawaii, which is currently constructing a clinic in Barangay Malobago in this town, have developed friendship with children when they took time to read a book for them during their break time. Hackleyson and his colleagues -- US Marines SPC Ryan R. Marshell and LCPL Ezequiel E. Santelices of the MWSS 172 Combat Engineering based in Okinawa, Japan – took turns in reading a book for their new-found friends Angel O. Diaz, 11; Chattelyn Pearl Arevalo, 11; and Danna Joy Oliquindo, 11 – all incoming Grade 6 pupils in June at the Malobago Elementary School.
In return, the friendly children here also taught the
Army Captain Edward Ellingson, USAF Civil-Military Operations chief, said that in his 25 years in military service, this is his first time for him to engage in humanitarian service as a departure from the usual military work as his job is in air defense artillery, which, he said, means his task is to shoot down enemy aircraft.
“I’m so happy with this mission because we’re able to work with a community where our soldiers have fostered good relationship with the people in Albay and learned a lot from our Filipino counterpart. The building we erected might crumble in the future but the friendship and the memories we gained will be cherished forever,” Ellingson said.
“We’re working together today for a better tomorrow. From the ground, Filipino children are so friendly playing with our soldiers. I’ve been to 23 countries and this is my first time in the
The month-long RP-US Balikatan 2014 humanitarian mission in Albay began on Tuesday but in less than a week of working in the remote communities of Guinobatan town and
Col. Curtis Lee, the commander of the Joint Civil Military Operations Task Force and the Balikatan 2014 USAF, said they are working shoulder to shoulder with the Armed Forces of the
“You will see our men from the USAF out there in your communities doing engineering projects and working with your medical community personnel, and we want to emphasize that we will be learning as much from you as you are from us. We are all here to share the best practices,” Lee said.
The Balikatan Exercise 2014 is a bilateral activity between the AFP and the USAF focusing on Humanitarian Civic Assistance Programs with two major categories; the Engineering Civic Assistance Program (ENCAP) and Cooperative Healthcare Engagement (CHE), which are aimed to benefit the communities of Legazpi and the town of
The ENCAP includes construction of classrooms at the
For the CHE program, there will be a health symposium with professional health workers from the Bicol Region, expert exchanges of ideas with barangay health workers, and healthcare engagements with people in Barangay Sinungtan and Barangay Doña Mercedes in Guinobatan, and Barangay Rawis in Legazpi.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=639620
US Armed Forces lady officer returns to Legazpi City with more medical provisions for villagers
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): US Armed Forces lady officer returns to Legazpi City with more medical provisions for villagers
“I shall return.”
Thus promised Major Grace Janosek of the United States Armed Forces (USAF) last year to residents of Barangay Bigaa here, to bring more medical supplies and equipment.
USAF and Armed Forces of thePhilippines
Due to the huge number of patients who lined up for the mission, it ran out of medicines and supplies, prompting Major Janosek, Team Leader 3 of the Civil Affairs of the US Marine Corps, to vow to come back and bring more-than-sufficient medical provisions with her.
And she did a "MacArthur".
Janosek went to Barangay Bigaa on Wednesday afternoon and turned over to Barangay Captain (village chief) Bobby Arienda baby bassinets, medical examination table, medical file cabinet, table bedside cabinet, wheelchair, sharp container (50 pieces), bedside stand, arm splint (20 pieces), surgical sponge (250 pieces), surgical pack (50 pieces), bed sheet (200 pieces), bandage (500 pieces), health and comfort kit Type 1 (500 pieces), scale, thermometer (25 pieces), cuff blood-fluid warmer (25 pieces), stethoscope (25 pieces) and nebulizer (3 pieces) for the use of the village health unit.
The medical supplies and equipment were worth thousands of US dollars, Janosek said.
Arienda expressed his deep gratitude to Janosek and her companions, while the whole village burst into applause and cheers when they saw what the lady soldier brought as she promised last year.
During the PHIBLEX 14, Barangay Bigaa was among the villages benefited by activities undertaken by theUS
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=639631
“I shall return.”
Thus promised Major Grace Janosek of the United States Armed Forces (USAF) last year to residents of Barangay Bigaa here, to bring more medical supplies and equipment.
USAF and Armed Forces of the
Due to the huge number of patients who lined up for the mission, it ran out of medicines and supplies, prompting Major Janosek, Team Leader 3 of the Civil Affairs of the US Marine Corps, to vow to come back and bring more-than-sufficient medical provisions with her.
And she did a "MacArthur".
Janosek went to Barangay Bigaa on Wednesday afternoon and turned over to Barangay Captain (village chief) Bobby Arienda baby bassinets, medical examination table, medical file cabinet, table bedside cabinet, wheelchair, sharp container (50 pieces), bedside stand, arm splint (20 pieces), surgical sponge (250 pieces), surgical pack (50 pieces), bed sheet (200 pieces), bandage (500 pieces), health and comfort kit Type 1 (500 pieces), scale, thermometer (25 pieces), cuff blood-fluid warmer (25 pieces), stethoscope (25 pieces) and nebulizer (3 pieces) for the use of the village health unit.
The medical supplies and equipment were worth thousands of US dollars, Janosek said.
Arienda expressed his deep gratitude to Janosek and her companions, while the whole village burst into applause and cheers when they saw what the lady soldier brought as she promised last year.
During the PHIBLEX 14, Barangay Bigaa was among the villages benefited by activities undertaken by the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=639631
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