From the Philippine Information Agency (May 6): 8th ID Chief commends South Korean military contingents for their accomplishments in Leyte
The AFP Commander of the 8th Infantry Division , Philippine Army based in Camp Lukban, Brgy. Maulong Catbalogan City has expressed thanks to the ROK Military contingents for helping the Philippine government in the recovery efforts in many areas in the region.
In his recent visit at the base camp of Republic of Korea Armed Forces Joint Support Group Philippines located at Brgy. Candahug, Palo Leyte, Major General Jet B. Velarmino commended the South Korean Military Contingents for their accomplishments since they arrived in Leyte last December 28, 2013.
“I would like to express gratitude in behalf of the people in Eastern Visayas for the repairs, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts that greatly uplifted the well-being of the communities affected by the super typhoon”, Velarmino said.
In a press release sent to PIA by Captain Amado Gutierrez, OIC, DPAO, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, it was learned that some accomplishments of the Korean soldiers in partnership with the Philippine Army Engineers Construction Units were presented during the official’s visit at the base camp.
This includes the repairs and rehabilitation of 17 elementary schools, 2 hospitals, 9 other government facilities like police stations, fire stations, courthouses and ABC Halls; fumigation of 235 barangays and treatment of 11, 168 medical and 1, 686 dental patients at the towns of Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa and Dulag in the Province of Leyte.
In addition, the South Korean soldiers were the ones responsible for the removal of 16, 600 tons of debris from the thoroughfares of the municipalities of Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa and Dulag, all are in Leyte.
Prior to this, about 9, 310, 000 liters of potable water were delivered by the Korean soldiers to helpless residents in various communities in said towns.
Furthermore, the ROK has also initiated a vocational training seminar for heavy equipment operation and Korean language classes for civilians and military personnel. The first batch of training will finish on May 9, 2014 and the second batch will start on May 12, this year.
The most heart-warming act of the Korean soldiers is their efforts in helping rebuild or repair the homes of 9 Filipino war veterans whose houses were destroyed during Yolanda’s fury.
Said Filipino war veterans have been known to have fought during the Korean War from June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953.
In same occasion, General Velarmino had also a chance to express his condolences to the people of South Korea who were saddened when a ship carrying koreans sank last April 16, this year.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2681399368479
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
TF Davao receives new patrol boat from Aboitiz Power
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 6): TF Davao receives new patrol boat from Aboitiz Power
DAVAO CITY- Task Force Davao was the recipient of a rubberized inflatable patrol boat from Aboitiz Power and Aboitiz Foundation during turnover ceremonies held yesterday (May 5) at the Aboitiz coal-fired plant in Binugao Toril this City.
“This will enhance our shore patrol capability “ says Col. Librado Quilla, deputy commander of Task Force Davao.
Quilla said the new asset will add to TF Davao’s fleet of three patrol boats.
The P600,000 brand-new boat is a Hammerhead 3.6 rubberized inflatable craft equipped with a 25 horse-power Yamaha outboard engine, the Subic-made boat can seat a maximum of six soldiers and can navigate through tight wateways such as rivers, it can also be used as a search and rescue craft during disasters.
According to Aboitiz Power First Vice-President for Mindanao Affairs Bobby Orig, the donation is a manifestation of the company’s appreciation to Mayor Duterte and to the men and women of Task Force Davao for making Davao City safe.
Previous negotiations with former Task Force Davao commander Col. Norman Flores highlighted the need for a patrol boat thus the donation.
TF Davao is an army anti-terrorist unit tasked to secure Davao City from possible terrorist attacks and other security threats, while Aboitiz Power through its subsidiaries engages in power generation , distrubtion and retail operation. Under the company is Therma South Inc. which is building a 300 megawatt coal-fired plant in the city.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1541399360756
DAVAO CITY- Task Force Davao was the recipient of a rubberized inflatable patrol boat from Aboitiz Power and Aboitiz Foundation during turnover ceremonies held yesterday (May 5) at the Aboitiz coal-fired plant in Binugao Toril this City.
“This will enhance our shore patrol capability “ says Col. Librado Quilla, deputy commander of Task Force Davao.
Quilla said the new asset will add to TF Davao’s fleet of three patrol boats.
The P600,000 brand-new boat is a Hammerhead 3.6 rubberized inflatable craft equipped with a 25 horse-power Yamaha outboard engine, the Subic-made boat can seat a maximum of six soldiers and can navigate through tight wateways such as rivers, it can also be used as a search and rescue craft during disasters.
According to Aboitiz Power First Vice-President for Mindanao Affairs Bobby Orig, the donation is a manifestation of the company’s appreciation to Mayor Duterte and to the men and women of Task Force Davao for making Davao City safe.
Previous negotiations with former Task Force Davao commander Col. Norman Flores highlighted the need for a patrol boat thus the donation.
TF Davao is an army anti-terrorist unit tasked to secure Davao City from possible terrorist attacks and other security threats, while Aboitiz Power through its subsidiaries engages in power generation , distrubtion and retail operation. Under the company is Therma South Inc. which is building a 300 megawatt coal-fired plant in the city.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1541399360756
AFP vice chief of staff to keynote Tabak’s 78th founding anniversary
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 6): AFP vice chief of staff to keynote Tabak’s 78th founding anniversary
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Norte - All is ready for the 78th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army’s (PA) 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division tomorrow with Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Alan Rio Luga, vice chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as guest of honor and speaker.
LTGEN Luga will talk on the theme, “Kahusayan sa Tungkulin at Disiplina Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran” (Excellence in Performance toward Peace and Progress).
A son of a military man, Luga graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in 1981. His father Gen. Emilio S. Luga Jr. was a former commanding officer of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division.
Tabak commanding officer Major General (MGEN) Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad Jr. disclosed that the anniversary program will start at exactly 9:30 a.m. at Kuta Major Cesar L. Sang-an, Upper Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
Pinning of medals to deserving soldiers, presentation of plaques of appreciation, distribution of Tabak Venture Educational Certificates and oath-taking of the members of the Multi-stakeholders Advisory Board (MSAB) are among the major activities during the program.
It could be recalled that the Tabak became the first regular division under the Philippine Commonwealth Army on May 5, 1936 stationed at Camp Murphy (now Camp Aguinaldo) in Quezon City. It transferred to its present location at Camp Major Cesar L. Sang-an in Barangay Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Dec. 4, 1989.
Under this division are four infantry brigades namely, the 101st (Three Red Arrows) based in Del Pilar, Pi?an, Zamboanga del Norted, Brigade, 102nd (Igsoon) Brigade in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay , 103rd (Haribon) Brigade in Basilan and 104th (Sultan) Brigade in Sulu.
Its area of jurisdiction straddles the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental including the cities of Isabela and Lamitan in Basilan Province, Zamboanga, Pagadian of Zamboanga del Sur, Dipolog and Dapitan of Zamboanga del Norte, and Ozamis, Oroquieta and Tangub of Misamis Occidental.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1431399347142
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Norte - All is ready for the 78th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army’s (PA) 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division tomorrow with Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Alan Rio Luga, vice chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as guest of honor and speaker.
LTGEN Luga will talk on the theme, “Kahusayan sa Tungkulin at Disiplina Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran” (Excellence in Performance toward Peace and Progress).
A son of a military man, Luga graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in 1981. His father Gen. Emilio S. Luga Jr. was a former commanding officer of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division.
Tabak commanding officer Major General (MGEN) Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad Jr. disclosed that the anniversary program will start at exactly 9:30 a.m. at Kuta Major Cesar L. Sang-an, Upper Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
Pinning of medals to deserving soldiers, presentation of plaques of appreciation, distribution of Tabak Venture Educational Certificates and oath-taking of the members of the Multi-stakeholders Advisory Board (MSAB) are among the major activities during the program.
It could be recalled that the Tabak became the first regular division under the Philippine Commonwealth Army on May 5, 1936 stationed at Camp Murphy (now Camp Aguinaldo) in Quezon City. It transferred to its present location at Camp Major Cesar L. Sang-an in Barangay Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on Dec. 4, 1989.
Under this division are four infantry brigades namely, the 101st (Three Red Arrows) based in Del Pilar, Pi?an, Zamboanga del Norted, Brigade, 102nd (Igsoon) Brigade in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay , 103rd (Haribon) Brigade in Basilan and 104th (Sultan) Brigade in Sulu.
Its area of jurisdiction straddles the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental including the cities of Isabela and Lamitan in Basilan Province, Zamboanga, Pagadian of Zamboanga del Sur, Dipolog and Dapitan of Zamboanga del Norte, and Ozamis, Oroquieta and Tangub of Misamis Occidental.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1431399347142
DFA ready to defend EDCA upon SC order
From the Philippine News Agency (May 3): DFA ready to defend EDCA upon SC order
The Department of Foreign Affairs(DFA) on Tuesday said it is ready to defend the new military pact with theUnited
States
But to the DFA, the pact, known as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA is an “executive agreement,” which does not require legislative ratification, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said.
“If there is an order from the Supreme Court to submit the agreement to the Senate then the DFA is prepared to explain and defend it,” Jose said as some groups prepare to question the pact's legality before the High Court.
Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV has filed a resolution that seeks to clarify the content and coverage of the agreement, which allows an increased rotational presence of US troops to the country and grants them access to the country’s military installations, but under the supervision of the Armed Forces of thePhilippines
It also allows theUS
Moreover, EDCA would enable thePhilippines
Designed to enhance the Philippine military’s capability and strengthen the country’s maritime defense, the DFA explained that the EDCA is merely an extension of the Philippines-US 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the 1999 Visiting Forces Agreement between the two allies.
Manila and Washington
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=640961
The Department of Foreign Affairs(DFA) on Tuesday said it is ready to defend the new military pact with the
But to the DFA, the pact, known as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA is an “executive agreement,” which does not require legislative ratification, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said.
“If there is an order from the Supreme Court to submit the agreement to the Senate then the DFA is prepared to explain and defend it,” Jose said as some groups prepare to question the pact's legality before the High Court.
Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV has filed a resolution that seeks to clarify the content and coverage of the agreement, which allows an increased rotational presence of US troops to the country and grants them access to the country’s military installations, but under the supervision of the Armed Forces of the
It also allows the
Moreover, EDCA would enable the
Designed to enhance the Philippine military’s capability and strengthen the country’s maritime defense, the DFA explained that the EDCA is merely an extension of the Philippines-US 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the 1999 Visiting Forces Agreement between the two allies.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=640961
Soldiers in illegal drugs
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Soldiers in illegal drugs
A non-commissioned officer and three enlisted men belonging to the 82nd Batallion of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army based in Tapaz, Capiz have been placed on probation for suspicions that they are engaging in substance abuse.
In all likelihood said Maj. Ray Tiongson, 3ID spokesman, the soldiers may face dismissal proceedings if found guilty of dabbling in illegal drugs, but gave no namesexplaining that he has yet to receive a complete report on it from higher ups.
Misfits have no place in any branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), he said.
For his part, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 director Paul Ledesma said the AFP has its own Department of Health-accredited medical facility capable of holding drug tests, but should the 3ID decide to send over the specimens to his office for confirmatory test, he would welcome it anytime.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640836
A non-commissioned officer and three enlisted men belonging to the 82nd Batallion of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army based in Tapaz, Capiz have been placed on probation for suspicions that they are engaging in substance abuse.
In all likelihood said Maj. Ray Tiongson, 3ID spokesman, the soldiers may face dismissal proceedings if found guilty of dabbling in illegal drugs, but gave no namesexplaining that he has yet to receive a complete report on it from higher ups.
Misfits have no place in any branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), he said.
For his part, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 director Paul Ledesma said the AFP has its own Department of Health-accredited medical facility capable of holding drug tests, but should the 3ID decide to send over the specimens to his office for confirmatory test, he would welcome it anytime.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640836
Police widen probe on bomb attack at Sultan Kudarat town hall
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Police widen probe on bomb attack at Sultan Kudarat town hall
Police authorities in Sultan Kudarat province have widened its investigation into the bomb explosion beside the municipal hall of Lebak town on Monday that seriously wounded its mayor and his security escort.
Senior Supt. Rex delaRosa , Sultan Kudarat
police director, said Tuesday he has assigned a team of investigators to look
deeper into the incident and determine its possible motive as well as the
identity of the suspects.
He said they are currently investigating a number of angles, including local politics and terrorism, as possibly behind the attack that appeared to have targeted Lebak Mayor Dionisio Besana.
“We’re focused right now on the possible threats on the mayor’s life,” the official said in a radio interview.
Besana was about to leave the municipal hall of Lebak at around 11:05 a.m. on Monday when an improvised bomb exploded at a nearby parking area.
Police said the cellphone-triggered explosive was planted underneath a motorcycle that was parked beside the mayor’s pickup service vehicle.
Investigators said employees of the Lebak municipal government unit saw a man wearing black trousers and a dark colored shirt drove the bomb-laden motorcycle to the area prior to the explosion.
Mayor Besana and his security detail identified as Police Officer (PO) 2 Van Anthony Vecilles sustained various shrapnel wounds and were immediately rushed to the Cotabato Regional Medical Center (CRMC) inCotabato City
As of Tuesday morning, delaRosa said the
mayor, who underwent an operation on Monday night, is already in stable
condition but remained at the intensive care unit of the CRMC.
He said PO2 Vecilles, who only sustained minor injuries, is also confined at the same hospital.
Dela Rosa said they are still determining whether the mayor had received threats on his life prior to the attack on Monday.
He said the Lebak municipal police station had not received any previous report from Besana’s camp related to the matter.
As to the terrorism angle, the police official said they could not discount such possibility but noted that it has to be substantiated first by statements from witnesses and proper evidences.
Dela Rosa added that their office and other local law enforcement agencies had not monitored any credible threat from terror groups in the past months that specifically targeted themunicipality
of Lebak
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640899
Police authorities in Sultan Kudarat province have widened its investigation into the bomb explosion beside the municipal hall of Lebak town on Monday that seriously wounded its mayor and his security escort.
Senior Supt. Rex dela
He said they are currently investigating a number of angles, including local politics and terrorism, as possibly behind the attack that appeared to have targeted Lebak Mayor Dionisio Besana.
“We’re focused right now on the possible threats on the mayor’s life,” the official said in a radio interview.
Besana was about to leave the municipal hall of Lebak at around 11:05 a.m. on Monday when an improvised bomb exploded at a nearby parking area.
Police said the cellphone-triggered explosive was planted underneath a motorcycle that was parked beside the mayor’s pickup service vehicle.
Investigators said employees of the Lebak municipal government unit saw a man wearing black trousers and a dark colored shirt drove the bomb-laden motorcycle to the area prior to the explosion.
Mayor Besana and his security detail identified as Police Officer (PO) 2 Van Anthony Vecilles sustained various shrapnel wounds and were immediately rushed to the Cotabato Regional Medical Center (CRMC) in
As of Tuesday morning, dela
He said PO2 Vecilles, who only sustained minor injuries, is also confined at the same hospital.
Dela Rosa said they are still determining whether the mayor had received threats on his life prior to the attack on Monday.
He said the Lebak municipal police station had not received any previous report from Besana’s camp related to the matter.
As to the terrorism angle, the police official said they could not discount such possibility but noted that it has to be substantiated first by statements from witnesses and proper evidences.
Dela Rosa added that their office and other local law enforcement agencies had not monitored any credible threat from terror groups in the past months that specifically targeted the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640899
MILF forces to remain despite passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law -- senior MILF official
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): MILF forces to remain despite passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law -- senior MILF official
The Bangsamoro Armed Forces, the military arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), will continue to exist even if Congress passes the Bangsamoro Basic Law, a senior MILF official said.
Second Vice Chairman Ustadz Ali ‘Solaiman, of the MILF Central Committee, said that once Congress passes the BBL, the MILF armed component and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will adopt a “status of mutual respect.”
Under the status of mutual respect, the MILF will join forces with the AFP in running after criminals within the confined Bansamoro territory.
Solaiman said that the AFP and the MILF will, at all times, coordinate with each other in the execution of military operations within the Bangsamoro homeland.
At the moment, the MILF armed forces are on standby after the government negotiating panel and the MILF signed the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (BFA) in October last year.
He said that the signing of the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law on April 20, 2014 signaled the start of the transition period as embodied in the annexes of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement.
The predominantly Moslem community inMindanao
is pushing for Congress to pass the BBL to pave the way for the implementation
of the BFA annexes that focus on transition government, wealth sharing, and
security issues, Solaiman said.
The elusive Solaiman, who spoke only in native Maranao dialect throughout the interview, holds office inCamp Bushra , the second largest MILF camp based in Lanao Del
Sur. province of Maguindanao
Dr. Bashary Latiph, a medical practitioner and leader of the Ranaw Confederation for Peace, acted as interpreter throughout the interview.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640966
The Bangsamoro Armed Forces, the military arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), will continue to exist even if Congress passes the Bangsamoro Basic Law, a senior MILF official said.
Second Vice Chairman Ustadz Ali ‘Solaiman, of the MILF Central Committee, said that once Congress passes the BBL, the MILF armed component and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will adopt a “status of mutual respect.”
Under the status of mutual respect, the MILF will join forces with the AFP in running after criminals within the confined Bansamoro territory.
Solaiman said that the AFP and the MILF will, at all times, coordinate with each other in the execution of military operations within the Bangsamoro homeland.
At the moment, the MILF armed forces are on standby after the government negotiating panel and the MILF signed the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (BFA) in October last year.
He said that the signing of the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law on April 20, 2014 signaled the start of the transition period as embodied in the annexes of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement.
The predominantly Moslem community in
The elusive Solaiman, who spoke only in native Maranao dialect throughout the interview, holds office in
Dr. Bashary Latiph, a medical practitioner and leader of the Ranaw Confederation for Peace, acted as interpreter throughout the interview.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640966
EDCA to enhance Philippine military capability, says PMA official
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): EDCA to enhance Philippine military capability, says PMA official
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) welcomes the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the United States of America (USA) and thePhilippines
In an interview today, May 6, PMA Public Information Office Chief Maj. Lynnete Agnes Flores said the role of the academy is to equip the cadets with the skills and knowledge required in the performance of their duties as military officers and future leaders of the nation.
Flores stressed the PMA graduates or
military officers will have enhancement of their skills and capabilities as
well as strengthen military knowledge and management on external and
territorial dispute through the agreement.
Prior to the arrival of US President Barrack Obama, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Ambassador Philip Goldberg signed the agreement that allows a biggerUS
The newly signed EDCA between theUS
and the Philippines
The 10-year deal is only a framework agreement and the details on the duration and number ofUS
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640987
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) welcomes the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the United States of America (USA) and the
In an interview today, May 6, PMA Public Information Office Chief Maj. Lynnete Agnes Flores said the role of the academy is to equip the cadets with the skills and knowledge required in the performance of their duties as military officers and future leaders of the nation.
Prior to the arrival of US President Barrack Obama, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Ambassador Philip Goldberg signed the agreement that allows a bigger
The newly signed EDCA between the
The 10-year deal is only a framework agreement and the details on the duration and number of
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=640987
Examinations for prospective officers, enlisted officers open in Eastern Visayas
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Examinations for prospective officers, enlisted officers open in Eastern Visayas
The Army Recruitment Office Visayas, which is based inCamp
LapuLapu , Cebu
City , will conduct a series of
Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery (PAATB) and other pre-entry examinations
for Officer Candidate Course (OCC), Officer Preparatory Course (OPC), and
Candidate Soldier Course to all hopeful aspirants from Eastern
Visayas .
Examinations will be facilitated by the Army Recruitment Office personnel from May 16 to 22.
Exam dates and venues are as indicated: May 16 at Headquarters 803rd Brigade, Camp Sumoroy, Catarman, Northern Samar; May 18 at Headquarters 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Camp Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar; May 20 at Headquarters 8th Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG), Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM), Camp Downes,Ormoc City, Leyte and; May 22 at Leyte Colleges, Tacloban City, Leyte.
The applicants will undergo pre-screening prior to the examinations and must meet the following requirements and standards to be qualified.
Applicants for the Officer Candidate Course (OCC) must be a graduate of any baccalaureate degree and must be 21-24 years old at the start of the training.
Alternatively, applicants of the Officers' Preparatory Course (OPC) must also be a degree holder, not more than 31 years old on the date of call to active duty (CAD) and have been commissioned as 2nd lieutenant in the Reserve Force.
Enlisted personnel who wish to rise from their ranks must be 21-29 years of age to qualify for OCC.
While those who aspire to qualify for the OPC must not be more than 31 years old.
Moreover, applicants on both courses must also be a baccalaureate degree holder and have completed at least one term or three years continuous active military service.
For the Candidate Soldier Course (CSC), candidates must be 18-26 years old, must not be 27 years old at the convening date and preferably finished 72 units in college. Applicants with special skills are highly favoured.
Additional qualifications in all courses are as follows: Filipino citizen (natural born), at least 5 feet in height for both male and female, physically and mentally fit, no pending case in any court.
Must be single or never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child, except for enlisted personnel who wish to join the OPC.
Examinees must bring the following requirements during the examination: Valid Identification Card, NSO Birth Certificate, College Diploma/Transcript of Records (Original), Pencil #2, and a long Folder.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640781
The Army Recruitment Office Visayas, which is based in
Examinations will be facilitated by the Army Recruitment Office personnel from May 16 to 22.
Exam dates and venues are as indicated: May 16 at Headquarters 803rd Brigade, Camp Sumoroy, Catarman, Northern Samar; May 18 at Headquarters 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Camp Vicente Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar; May 20 at Headquarters 8th Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG), Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM), Camp Downes,Ormoc City, Leyte and; May 22 at Leyte Colleges, Tacloban City, Leyte.
The applicants will undergo pre-screening prior to the examinations and must meet the following requirements and standards to be qualified.
Applicants for the Officer Candidate Course (OCC) must be a graduate of any baccalaureate degree and must be 21-24 years old at the start of the training.
Alternatively, applicants of the Officers' Preparatory Course (OPC) must also be a degree holder, not more than 31 years old on the date of call to active duty (CAD) and have been commissioned as 2nd lieutenant in the Reserve Force.
Enlisted personnel who wish to rise from their ranks must be 21-29 years of age to qualify for OCC.
While those who aspire to qualify for the OPC must not be more than 31 years old.
Moreover, applicants on both courses must also be a baccalaureate degree holder and have completed at least one term or three years continuous active military service.
For the Candidate Soldier Course (CSC), candidates must be 18-26 years old, must not be 27 years old at the convening date and preferably finished 72 units in college. Applicants with special skills are highly favoured.
Additional qualifications in all courses are as follows: Filipino citizen (natural born), at least 5 feet in height for both male and female, physically and mentally fit, no pending case in any court.
Must be single or never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child, except for enlisted personnel who wish to join the OPC.
Examinees must bring the following requirements during the examination: Valid Identification Card, NSO Birth Certificate, College Diploma/Transcript of Records (Original), Pencil #2, and a long Folder.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640781
Western Command to confirm reports on missing German couple
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Western Command to confirm reports on missing German couple
The Puerto Princesa-based Western Command on Tuesday announced that it is still verifying reports of the German couple who went missing off waters near the Palawan andSabah boundary.
Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda, Western Command commander, identified the missing Germans as Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71 and Herike Diesen.
He added that the two were aboard a yacht on island hopping, when they went missing sometimes in April 25.
Deveraturda said that they are looking into reports that still unidentified elements abducted the two while on the high seas.
The Western Command chief stated that the Philippine Coast Guard is also conducting its own search for the two.
"We are still searching and confirming this report (abduction) but for the meantime, we still consider them missing."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640923
The Puerto Princesa-based Western Command on Tuesday announced that it is still verifying reports of the German couple who went missing off waters near the Palawan and
Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda, Western Command commander, identified the missing Germans as Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71 and Herike Diesen.
He added that the two were aboard a yacht on island hopping, when they went missing sometimes in April 25.
Deveraturda said that they are looking into reports that still unidentified elements abducted the two while on the high seas.
The Western Command chief stated that the Philippine Coast Guard is also conducting its own search for the two.
"We are still searching and confirming this report (abduction) but for the meantime, we still consider them missing."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640923
Several field exercises among highlights of 'Balikatan 2014'
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Several field exercises among highlights of 'Balikatan 2014'
Several field exercises, designed to increase the interoperability of both Filipino and American forces, are among the highlights of the schedule for this year's "Balikatan" military exercises.
Lt. (SG) Annaleah Cazcarro, Combined Joint Information Bureau co-director, said these include:
* Maritime Surveillance Systems Demonstration at the Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales.
* Demonstration on Air Movement, Live Fire, Counter Improvised Explosives Devices and Mass Casualty Response atFort Magsaysay
* Combined Cooperative Healthcare Engagement in Tacloban,Leyte .
* Showcase of Philippine Air Force andU.S.
* Urban Search and Rescue field training exercises at Camp Lapu-Lapu,Cebu City
And lastly, a Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise will be held atCrow Valley
Range
All of these activities are expected to take place within the May 5 to 16 duration of "Balikatan 2014."
Meanwhile, Filipino andU.S.
forces began conducting community infrastructure projects in Legazpi City
Cazcarro said this is part of the maneuvers' Humanitarian Civic Assistance that will focus on revitalizing the interoperability of thePhilippines and U.S.
These will materialize through the Engineering Civic-Action Programs, Cooperative Health Engagements, Symposiums, and Community Relation activities.
Exercise "Balikatan" is an annual bilateral combined exercise initiated by the governments of the Republic of thePhilippines
and the United States
It is structured to further develop the Armed Forces of thePhilippines Philippines and the U.S.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640840
Several field exercises, designed to increase the interoperability of both Filipino and American forces, are among the highlights of the schedule for this year's "Balikatan" military exercises.
Lt. (SG) Annaleah Cazcarro, Combined Joint Information Bureau co-director, said these include:
* Maritime Surveillance Systems Demonstration at the Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales.
* Demonstration on Air Movement, Live Fire, Counter Improvised Explosives Devices and Mass Casualty Response at
* Combined Cooperative Healthcare Engagement in Tacloban,
* Showcase of Philippine Air Force and
* Urban Search and Rescue field training exercises at Camp Lapu-Lapu,
And lastly, a Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise will be held at
All of these activities are expected to take place within the May 5 to 16 duration of "Balikatan 2014."
Meanwhile, Filipino and
Cazcarro said this is part of the maneuvers' Humanitarian Civic Assistance that will focus on revitalizing the interoperability of the
These will materialize through the Engineering Civic-Action Programs, Cooperative Health Engagements, Symposiums, and Community Relation activities.
Exercise "Balikatan" is an annual bilateral combined exercise initiated by the governments of the Republic of the
It is structured to further develop the Armed Forces of the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640840
Two-fold advantage awaits AFP on EDCA, says Magdalo rep
From the Philippine News Agency (May 6): Two-fold advantage awaits AFP on EDCA, says Magdalo rep
A former soldier turned politician on Tuesday said that the country gains two-fold advantage after representatives of the government of thePhilippines and the United States
Magdalo Rep. Ashley Acedillo said that aside from training exposure for the Armed Forces of thePhilippines ,
they will have a chance to test the authenticity of the US
“Despite the low level of modernization ng ating military ay hindi naman po tayo napag-iiwanan in terms of exposure. That will give us an idea where we should be headed in terms of modernizing our military. Second naman, yun pong increase ng military troops inside our camps and bases will require permanent structures,” Acedillo told reporters during the weekly forum, Ugnayan sa Batasan.
He said the structures will be left behind so this will redound to the benefit of our military especially the camps and bases where these permanent structures will be set up by theUS
On the presumption that EDCA violates the Constitution because of the possibility that the US forces might bring in military hardware with nuclear, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said that he strongly believed that EDCA will not be declared unconstitutional because the agreement is very clear that they will abide by what the Philippine law says, including the Constitution.
“The preamble which is in the agreement says recognizing theUnited States
He emphasized that a premature allegation that US troops might attempt to sneak weapons with nuclear is something that is neither here nor there which cannot be a basis for going to the court and saying "they might bring it here."
“Any other constitutional provision aside from the nuclear provisions of Article II declaration of principles. So that is what we are saying, marami kasi ang nagsasalita "unconstitutional iyan," the veteran solon insists.
Another issue raised by some people against the agreement is that it needs to get the nod of the Senate because it is not a plain agreement but a treaty.
“The constitution says a treaty should be approved by a 3/4 votes of the Senate. They see it as a treaty. We see it as an agreement and this is precisely according to the agreement itself, this will enhance the implementation, as mentioned by Cong. Acedillo, that it is part of the Mutual Defense Treaty, the Visiting Forces Agreement and the logistical agreement that we have. So, ano iyon, so there is really no basis, I could not see any basis as a lawyer, as a former dean of the college of law, I could not envision now, when they say they are going to court and question this. Now, if there are actual violations then probably that is the time, if there will be a violation of the constitution by implementing this, then that is the time,” Rodriguez pointed out.
Acedillo who admitted that he was able to secure a copy of the agreement cited Article 4 Section 6 which says preposition materials shall not include nuclear weapons.
“So very clear po yan doon so not only do they recognize our laws, our Constitution and our laws prohibit nuclear weapons it is also expressly stated in the agreement that they will not be bringing in nuclear weapons into our camps and bases which will be hosting US military troops,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640917
A former soldier turned politician on Tuesday said that the country gains two-fold advantage after representatives of the government of the
Magdalo Rep. Ashley Acedillo said that aside from training exposure for the Armed Forces of the
“Despite the low level of modernization ng ating military ay hindi naman po tayo napag-iiwanan in terms of exposure. That will give us an idea where we should be headed in terms of modernizing our military. Second naman, yun pong increase ng military troops inside our camps and bases will require permanent structures,” Acedillo told reporters during the weekly forum, Ugnayan sa Batasan.
He said the structures will be left behind so this will redound to the benefit of our military especially the camps and bases where these permanent structures will be set up by the
On the presumption that EDCA violates the Constitution because of the possibility that the US forces might bring in military hardware with nuclear, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said that he strongly believed that EDCA will not be declared unconstitutional because the agreement is very clear that they will abide by what the Philippine law says, including the Constitution.
“The preamble which is in the agreement says recognizing the
He emphasized that a premature allegation that US troops might attempt to sneak weapons with nuclear is something that is neither here nor there which cannot be a basis for going to the court and saying "they might bring it here."
“Any other constitutional provision aside from the nuclear provisions of Article II declaration of principles. So that is what we are saying, marami kasi ang nagsasalita "unconstitutional iyan," the veteran solon insists.
Another issue raised by some people against the agreement is that it needs to get the nod of the Senate because it is not a plain agreement but a treaty.
“The constitution says a treaty should be approved by a 3/4 votes of the Senate. They see it as a treaty. We see it as an agreement and this is precisely according to the agreement itself, this will enhance the implementation, as mentioned by Cong. Acedillo, that it is part of the Mutual Defense Treaty, the Visiting Forces Agreement and the logistical agreement that we have. So, ano iyon, so there is really no basis, I could not see any basis as a lawyer, as a former dean of the college of law, I could not envision now, when they say they are going to court and question this. Now, if there are actual violations then probably that is the time, if there will be a violation of the constitution by implementing this, then that is the time,” Rodriguez pointed out.
Acedillo who admitted that he was able to secure a copy of the agreement cited Article 4 Section 6 which says preposition materials shall not include nuclear weapons.
“So very clear po yan doon so not only do they recognize our laws, our Constitution and our laws prohibit nuclear weapons it is also expressly stated in the agreement that they will not be bringing in nuclear weapons into our camps and bases which will be hosting US military troops,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=640917
Philippines, MILF create normalization bodies
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (May 6): Philippines, MILF create normalization bodies
The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels returned from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia recently following a discussion on the composition of the different bodies that will oversee and implement the normalization process.
Among these is the International Decommissioning Body (IDB) that will take the lead in the gradual process of decommissioning of MILF forces and weapons.
The creation of the IDB can be found specifically on the Annex on Normalization, one of the key documents of the CAB. The IDB shall be composed of three foreign experts including the chairperson, and four local experts jointly nominated by the Parties. The Parties shall also invite three states to provide the foreign experts.
“The IDB would be the one to supervise, oversee, and basically implement the decommissioning process,” said Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chief negotiator for the GPH. “The procedure is for [the MILF] to submit a list of weapons and combatants, an inventory. After which, the IDB will verify the list and work towards the programming of the decommissioning schedule as agreed upon in the Annex on Normalization.”
The annex, signed in Kuala Lumpur on January 25, states that “normalization aims to ensure human security in the Bangsamoro. It helps build a society that is committed to basic human rights where individuals are free of violence or crime and where long-held traditions and values continue to be honored.”
“We really have to put up the body as soon as possible so that the job of verification of the inventory that would be submitted by the MILF will begin. And everything proceeds from there. Until we are able to verify the number of weapons, the kinds of weapons and also the combatants—who are they, where are they located?—we can’t actually begin, for example, the socio-economic programs that we’ll be providing for the communities of these combatants.”
There will be no wholesale integration of the forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front into the Armed Forces of the Philippines nor the Philippine National Police (PNP) similar to the integration of the Moro National Liberation Front undertaken during the Ramos administration, said Coronel-Ferrer. However, interested and qualified former combatants are welcome to join anytime, she said.
“We have a provision for the setting up of the police force for the Bangsamoro, which will still be part of the PNP, and it will be significantly provided with resources to guarantee its professionalism and capability to take charge of peace and order concerns,” Coronel-Ferrer added.
According to the Annex on Normalization, the decommissioning of MILF forces shall be parallel and commensurate to the implementation of all the agreements of the Parties. The MILF shall undertake a gradual program for decommissioning of its forces so that they are put beyond use. The decommissioning process includes activities aimed at achieving a smooth transition for the members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the MILF to productive civilian life.
Also discussed in the meeting was the formation of the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) and the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC). The JNC is mandated to coordinate all components of the normalization process. It will be co-chaired by National Security Council Undersecretary Zenonida Brosas on behalf of the government, and by Mohamed Nasif on the side of the MILF.
The government and MILF panels agreed to invite the government of Switzerland to provide an expert who would chair the TJRC. The TJRC is tasked to study and recommend to the Parties the appropriate mechanisms to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, correct historical injustices, and address human rights violations through land dispossession, towards healing and reconciliation.
In addition, the panels identified their respective representatives in the Joint Peace and Security Committee that will coordinate the joint teams that will be posted to assist in maintaining peace and order in conflict affected areas, and the study group that would propose the terms and criteria for the amnesty and pardon of MILF members in conflict with the law. Both panels also named the people who will work for the transformation of six previously acknowledged MILF camps in Lanao and Maguindanao into productive communities. The amnesty and transformation of the camps are the two confidence-building measures defined in the Annex on Normalization.
The Terms of References of the IDB, JNC, and TJRC were signed by the GPH and MILF peace panels on March 22, 2014, days before the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
Finally, the two panels agreed to cooperate in the current review process of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law that was submitted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission to the Office of the President on April 22. The review process is being led by the Office of the Executive Secretary and Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel. President Aquino will certify to Congress the draft law as urgent after the review process is completed.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/philippines-milf-create-normalization.html
The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels returned from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia recently following a discussion on the composition of the different bodies that will oversee and implement the normalization process.
Among these is the International Decommissioning Body (IDB) that will take the lead in the gradual process of decommissioning of MILF forces and weapons.
The creation of the IDB can be found specifically on the Annex on Normalization, one of the key documents of the CAB. The IDB shall be composed of three foreign experts including the chairperson, and four local experts jointly nominated by the Parties. The Parties shall also invite three states to provide the foreign experts.
“The IDB would be the one to supervise, oversee, and basically implement the decommissioning process,” said Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chief negotiator for the GPH. “The procedure is for [the MILF] to submit a list of weapons and combatants, an inventory. After which, the IDB will verify the list and work towards the programming of the decommissioning schedule as agreed upon in the Annex on Normalization.”
The annex, signed in Kuala Lumpur on January 25, states that “normalization aims to ensure human security in the Bangsamoro. It helps build a society that is committed to basic human rights where individuals are free of violence or crime and where long-held traditions and values continue to be honored.”
“We really have to put up the body as soon as possible so that the job of verification of the inventory that would be submitted by the MILF will begin. And everything proceeds from there. Until we are able to verify the number of weapons, the kinds of weapons and also the combatants—who are they, where are they located?—we can’t actually begin, for example, the socio-economic programs that we’ll be providing for the communities of these combatants.”
There will be no wholesale integration of the forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front into the Armed Forces of the Philippines nor the Philippine National Police (PNP) similar to the integration of the Moro National Liberation Front undertaken during the Ramos administration, said Coronel-Ferrer. However, interested and qualified former combatants are welcome to join anytime, she said.
“We have a provision for the setting up of the police force for the Bangsamoro, which will still be part of the PNP, and it will be significantly provided with resources to guarantee its professionalism and capability to take charge of peace and order concerns,” Coronel-Ferrer added.
According to the Annex on Normalization, the decommissioning of MILF forces shall be parallel and commensurate to the implementation of all the agreements of the Parties. The MILF shall undertake a gradual program for decommissioning of its forces so that they are put beyond use. The decommissioning process includes activities aimed at achieving a smooth transition for the members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the MILF to productive civilian life.
Also discussed in the meeting was the formation of the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) and the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC). The JNC is mandated to coordinate all components of the normalization process. It will be co-chaired by National Security Council Undersecretary Zenonida Brosas on behalf of the government, and by Mohamed Nasif on the side of the MILF.
The government and MILF panels agreed to invite the government of Switzerland to provide an expert who would chair the TJRC. The TJRC is tasked to study and recommend to the Parties the appropriate mechanisms to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, correct historical injustices, and address human rights violations through land dispossession, towards healing and reconciliation.
In addition, the panels identified their respective representatives in the Joint Peace and Security Committee that will coordinate the joint teams that will be posted to assist in maintaining peace and order in conflict affected areas, and the study group that would propose the terms and criteria for the amnesty and pardon of MILF members in conflict with the law. Both panels also named the people who will work for the transformation of six previously acknowledged MILF camps in Lanao and Maguindanao into productive communities. The amnesty and transformation of the camps are the two confidence-building measures defined in the Annex on Normalization.
The Terms of References of the IDB, JNC, and TJRC were signed by the GPH and MILF peace panels on March 22, 2014, days before the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
Finally, the two panels agreed to cooperate in the current review process of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law that was submitted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission to the Office of the President on April 22. The review process is being led by the Office of the Executive Secretary and Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel. President Aquino will certify to Congress the draft law as urgent after the review process is completed.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/philippines-milf-create-normalization.html
Philippine rebels ambush soldiers
From the Manila Examiner BlogSpot site (May 6): Philippine rebels ambush soldiers
Communist insurgents ambushed a military truck and wounded one soldier in the southern Philippine province of Zamboanga Sibugay, police said on Tuesday.
Police said truck, driven by Private First Class Roberto Dua, was travelling in the town of Kabasalan on their way to the military base when some 15 New People’s Army rebels ambushed the soldiers near the village of Palinta. It said Staff Sergeant Rodel Roda, a member of the 44th Infantry Battalion, sustained two gunshot wounds in the left leg.
The attack sparked a firefight between troops and rebels.
Police said about 100 bullet casings fired from an Ak-47 and M16 automatic rifles were recovered from the area after the clashes, including an improvised explosive left behind by the NPA, which is fighting for a separate communist state in the country.
There was no immediate statement from the military about the ambush.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/philippine-rebels-ambush-soldiers.html
Communist insurgents ambushed a military truck and wounded one soldier in the southern Philippine province of Zamboanga Sibugay, police said on Tuesday.
Police said truck, driven by Private First Class Roberto Dua, was travelling in the town of Kabasalan on their way to the military base when some 15 New People’s Army rebels ambushed the soldiers near the village of Palinta. It said Staff Sergeant Rodel Roda, a member of the 44th Infantry Battalion, sustained two gunshot wounds in the left leg.
The attack sparked a firefight between troops and rebels.
Police said about 100 bullet casings fired from an Ak-47 and M16 automatic rifles were recovered from the area after the clashes, including an improvised explosive left behind by the NPA, which is fighting for a separate communist state in the country.
There was no immediate statement from the military about the ambush.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/philippine-rebels-ambush-soldiers.html
Gunmen snatch Chinese manager from Sabah fish farm; flee into Southern Philippines
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (May 6): Gunmen snatch Chinese manager from Sabah fish farm; flee into Southern Philippines
Malaysian authorities said gunmen snatched early Tuesday a Chinese fish farm manager in Lahad Datu town in Sabah and clashed briefly with pursuing patrol before disappearing into the southern Philippines.
The abduction came at a time Filipino authorities were also searching for two German yachters who disappeared at sea off Palawan province. Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71, and his companion, Herike Diesen, 55, have been reported missing after fishermen spotted their empty yacht.
Malaysia’s The Star Online also reported the incident and said at least 5 armed men on a speedboat intruded into the Wonderful Terrace and seized the 34-year Yang Zai Lin after he came out to check the commotion at the farm.
The report said the gunmen, clad in military uniform, first held the farm’s security guard and then captured Yang when he came out. The assailants then sped off leaving the guard behind. It was not immediately known whether the gunmen are members of the Abu Sayyaf group or local gang members and Filipino criminals based in Sabah, but with links to the dreaded militant group.
Reports said Yang is a native of Guangzhou, but the Chinese Consulate in Kuching in Malaysia claimed Yang is from Guizhou province in southwest China. The latest abduction has forced Sabah authorities to declare curfew and travel restrictions in several areas there.
It was unknown how the gunmen managed to sneak into Lahad Datu undetected despite a previous raid by Abu Sayyaf militants in Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort in the town of Semporna also in Sabah on April 2.
The raiders kidnapped a 29-year old Chinese holidaymaker Gao Huayun and Filipina resort worker Marcy Dayawan, who are now being held captive by the Abu Sayyaf under Alhabsi Misaya in Mount Taran in Sulu province in southern Philippines. The kidnappers were demanding RM36.4 million in ransom for the release of the Shanghai woman.
Philippine authorities said the German adventurers were heading to Sabah after from a holiday in Palawan when they disappeared on April 25. There were reports that they had been taken captive by the Abu Sayyaf, however no Philippine officials would confirm this.
The disappearance of the Germans coincided with reports by Malaysian authorities that it had foiled a new attempt by kidnappers from the southern Philippines to intrude into Sabah.
Eastern Sabah Security Command Director-General Datuk Mohammad Mentek said the presence of security personnel prevented the intrusion, but it was unclear if the Abu Sayyaf was involved in the latest attempt to cross into the border.
The Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that the tight security in Sabah prevented the entry of lawless elements through Semporna. Malaysia also sent security officials to Sulu to work closely with the authorities over there for the safe release of the two Singamata hostages.
The Abu Sayyaf was largely blamed for the daring raid on the posh Pulau Sipadan resort in 2000 where they kidnapped 21 people and ransomed them off to Malaysia and Libya for at least $25 million.
In November last year, the Abu Sayyaf kidnapped a Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei, 58, after killing her husband Hsu Li Min, 57, in a daring cross-border raid in Sabah’s Pom Pom Island. The woman was eventually released a month later near the village of Liban in Talipao town in Sulu after paying ransom.
The Abu Sayyaf has resorted to ransom kidnappings to raise money for the purchase weapons and fund terror attacks in the Philippines.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/gunmen-snatch-chinese-manager-from.html
Malaysian authorities said gunmen snatched early Tuesday a Chinese fish farm manager in Lahad Datu town in Sabah and clashed briefly with pursuing patrol before disappearing into the southern Philippines.
The abduction came at a time Filipino authorities were also searching for two German yachters who disappeared at sea off Palawan province. Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71, and his companion, Herike Diesen, 55, have been reported missing after fishermen spotted their empty yacht.
Malaysia’s The Star Online also reported the incident and said at least 5 armed men on a speedboat intruded into the Wonderful Terrace and seized the 34-year Yang Zai Lin after he came out to check the commotion at the farm.
The report said the gunmen, clad in military uniform, first held the farm’s security guard and then captured Yang when he came out. The assailants then sped off leaving the guard behind. It was not immediately known whether the gunmen are members of the Abu Sayyaf group or local gang members and Filipino criminals based in Sabah, but with links to the dreaded militant group.
Reports said Yang is a native of Guangzhou, but the Chinese Consulate in Kuching in Malaysia claimed Yang is from Guizhou province in southwest China. The latest abduction has forced Sabah authorities to declare curfew and travel restrictions in several areas there.
It was unknown how the gunmen managed to sneak into Lahad Datu undetected despite a previous raid by Abu Sayyaf militants in Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort in the town of Semporna also in Sabah on April 2.
The raiders kidnapped a 29-year old Chinese holidaymaker Gao Huayun and Filipina resort worker Marcy Dayawan, who are now being held captive by the Abu Sayyaf under Alhabsi Misaya in Mount Taran in Sulu province in southern Philippines. The kidnappers were demanding RM36.4 million in ransom for the release of the Shanghai woman.
Philippine authorities said the German adventurers were heading to Sabah after from a holiday in Palawan when they disappeared on April 25. There were reports that they had been taken captive by the Abu Sayyaf, however no Philippine officials would confirm this.
The disappearance of the Germans coincided with reports by Malaysian authorities that it had foiled a new attempt by kidnappers from the southern Philippines to intrude into Sabah.
Eastern Sabah Security Command Director-General Datuk Mohammad Mentek said the presence of security personnel prevented the intrusion, but it was unclear if the Abu Sayyaf was involved in the latest attempt to cross into the border.
The Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that the tight security in Sabah prevented the entry of lawless elements through Semporna. Malaysia also sent security officials to Sulu to work closely with the authorities over there for the safe release of the two Singamata hostages.
The Abu Sayyaf was largely blamed for the daring raid on the posh Pulau Sipadan resort in 2000 where they kidnapped 21 people and ransomed them off to Malaysia and Libya for at least $25 million.
In November last year, the Abu Sayyaf kidnapped a Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei, 58, after killing her husband Hsu Li Min, 57, in a daring cross-border raid in Sabah’s Pom Pom Island. The woman was eventually released a month later near the village of Liban in Talipao town in Sulu after paying ransom.
The Abu Sayyaf has resorted to ransom kidnappings to raise money for the purchase weapons and fund terror attacks in the Philippines.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/gunmen-snatch-chinese-manager-from.html
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