From the Philippine Star (Jun 1): Noy stops Libingan eviction
No less than President Aquino ordered the Philippine Army to stop its scheduled demolition of houses located at a reserved area of the Libingan ng Mga Bayani in Taguig City.
Mayor Lani Cayetano said yesterday the President personally informed her and her husband, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, on Friday night that the demolition scheduled tomorrow by the Philippine Army Task Group Bantay (PATGB) will no longer push through.
Cayetano earlier warned the Army against going through with its scheduled demolition of houses of around 2,000 families in Katipunan Village on the grounds that it would violate the Urban Development and Housing Act as well as the Constitution.
According to the community leaders, the affected residents – mostly retired soldiers and their families – were granted permission by the Army to erect houses in the 1990s.
“In behalf of the 2,000 families living at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, I thank the President for his quick response. We are lucky because the President listens to reason. Because of the President’s quick response, I hope that the tension in the area will ease and the residents’ lives will return to normal,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, Army spokesman Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato said Army officials are “consulting our legal advisers” and will not yet issue an official position on the matter.
In a notice of eviction dated May 22, signed by Capt. Edgar Torre, the PATGB informed the residents that they are illegally occupying Katipunan Village, which is composed of Sitio Masagana, Sitio Masigasig, Sitio Maliwanag and Sitio Matatag in Barangay Western Bicutan.
In its notice of eviction, the PATGB also said that the eviction and demolition set for tomorrow will be done in coordination with the local government.
Cayetano, however, said the PATGB neither coordinated nor consulted with the city government on the demolition.
“The meeting you called on May 21 can hardly qualify as coordination. During that meeting, you merely announced that the demolition will push through. The local agencies registered their strong objections and reminded PATGB the Urban Development and Housing Act and its implementing rules and regulations,” Cayetano said in her urgent letter to Col. Ramon Estella, PATGB commanding officer.
Cayetano’s letter was personally delivered by Taguig City officials and leaders of the affected community to the headquarters of the PATGB Friday afternoon.
http://www.philstar.com/metro/2014/06/01/1329600/noy-stops-libingan-eviction
Saturday, May 31, 2014
China suggests US fabricated evidence for cyberattacks
Posted to InterAksyon (May 29): China suggests US fabricated evidence for cyberattacks
China suggested on Thursday that the United States had fabricated evidence to underpin accusations of cyber attacks and had incited China's neighbors to "stir up trouble" in disputed waters.
The strongly-worded comments by the defense ministry come as relations between the world's two largest economies are increasingly strained by a row over cyberespionage.
The United States last week accused five Chinese military officers of hacking into U.S. companies to steal trade secrets.
Asked about proof behind the U.S. allegations, ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng said it would be easy for the United States to fabricate evidence.
"In the field of Internet technology and infrastructure, the U.S. is blessed with an advantage, so fabricating some so-called 'evidence' is certainly no hardship," spokesman Geng Yansheng told a briefing, according to a statement on the ministry's website.
Geng compared U.S. evidence for Chinese cyberspying to allegations produced by Washington in 2003, that Baghdad held weapons of mass destruction, to justify the invasion of Iraq. Those allegations proved to be unfounded.
"The international community has not seen the U.S.'s so-called proof, they've only seen the massive conflict and hardship endured by the people of Iraq," he said.
Geng also said President Barack Obama's "pivot" of military assets to Asia was to blame for "stirring up new troubles" in the South China and East China seas.
"After the U.S. took up the Asia rebalancing strategy, some countries took advantage of its power to behave recklessly, continuously stirring up new troubles in territorial disputes," he said.
Territorial rows have strained several of China's key diplomatic relationships, including those with Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan.
Japan said this week that Chinese aircraft had come within a few dozen meters of its warplanes in the East China Sea where both countries claim a string of uninhabited islands administered by Tokyo. Each side accused the other of dangerous behavior.
Geng said Japanese aircraft had followed Chinese air force patrols at a close distance for long periods of time on several occasions since Beijing put in place an air defense zone last year that includes the disputed islands.
Ties with Vietnam frayed this month over an oil rig China deployed to disputed waters in the South China Sea. That sparked anti-Chinese rioting in Vietnam and confrontations between vessels from the two countries.
"Where this issue is concerned, there is absolutely no room for bargaining and no allowance for provocative behavior," Geng said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/87918/china-suggests-us-fabricated-evidence-for-cyberattacks
China suggested on Thursday that the United States had fabricated evidence to underpin accusations of cyber attacks and had incited China's neighbors to "stir up trouble" in disputed waters.
The strongly-worded comments by the defense ministry come as relations between the world's two largest economies are increasingly strained by a row over cyberespionage.
The United States last week accused five Chinese military officers of hacking into U.S. companies to steal trade secrets.
Asked about proof behind the U.S. allegations, ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng said it would be easy for the United States to fabricate evidence.
"In the field of Internet technology and infrastructure, the U.S. is blessed with an advantage, so fabricating some so-called 'evidence' is certainly no hardship," spokesman Geng Yansheng told a briefing, according to a statement on the ministry's website.
Geng compared U.S. evidence for Chinese cyberspying to allegations produced by Washington in 2003, that Baghdad held weapons of mass destruction, to justify the invasion of Iraq. Those allegations proved to be unfounded.
"The international community has not seen the U.S.'s so-called proof, they've only seen the massive conflict and hardship endured by the people of Iraq," he said.
Geng also said President Barack Obama's "pivot" of military assets to Asia was to blame for "stirring up new troubles" in the South China and East China seas.
"After the U.S. took up the Asia rebalancing strategy, some countries took advantage of its power to behave recklessly, continuously stirring up new troubles in territorial disputes," he said.
Territorial rows have strained several of China's key diplomatic relationships, including those with Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan.
Japan said this week that Chinese aircraft had come within a few dozen meters of its warplanes in the East China Sea where both countries claim a string of uninhabited islands administered by Tokyo. Each side accused the other of dangerous behavior.
Geng said Japanese aircraft had followed Chinese air force patrols at a close distance for long periods of time on several occasions since Beijing put in place an air defense zone last year that includes the disputed islands.
Ties with Vietnam frayed this month over an oil rig China deployed to disputed waters in the South China Sea. That sparked anti-Chinese rioting in Vietnam and confrontations between vessels from the two countries.
"Where this issue is concerned, there is absolutely no room for bargaining and no allowance for provocative behavior," Geng said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/87918/china-suggests-us-fabricated-evidence-for-cyberattacks
Kidnappers demand P1M for Lanao village chief, says military
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 31): Kidnappers demand P1M for Lanao village chief, says military
KOLAMBUGAN, Lanao del Norte – The kidnappers of the head of a village here are demanding payment of P1 million for his release, a military official said Saturday.
Col. Demmy Tejares , commander of the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, told the Inquirer by phone that the authorities had already identified the group that snatched Rogelio Narciso, 61, on Wednesday.
He said the group was led by Wali Pelaez, a Maranaw, who has been accused of such other crimes as robbery and cattle rustling in the province.
Narciso was abducted in the village of Palao, which he heads, by at least 10 armed men identified as members of the notorious Tundra group. He was on his way home when he was abducted.
“The armed group brought Narciso to the hinterlands of Munai, also in Lanao del Norte, and have allegedly demanded P1 million,” Tejares said, without specifying who provided him the information.
Mayor Lorenzo Manegos of Kolambugan said there were people trying to obtain Narciso’s release and they included a prominent member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
But Manegos said nobody had told him about the ransom demand.
“I haven’t received any information on that matter but I can confirm that there are efforts now to secure the victim from his kidnappers,” Manegos said.
While negotiations were being held for Narciso’s freedom, the military said it was conducting operations aimed at pressuring the kidnappers into releasing the victim.
Tejares said the military was coordinating with the MILF’s ceasefire group in Lanao del Norte – headed by Abas Salung – for the operation, which involved the police and other Army units.
He said the military could not just deploy troops into Munai, where the victim was thought to have been taken, because the area was considered part of MILF territory.
Meanwhile, Manegos said he was worried about the health of Narciso and has sent him medicines through the vice mayor of Munai town.
“The old man is hypertensive,” he said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/607094/kidnappers-demand-p1m-for-lanao-village-chief-says-military
KOLAMBUGAN, Lanao del Norte – The kidnappers of the head of a village here are demanding payment of P1 million for his release, a military official said Saturday.
Col. Demmy Tejares , commander of the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, told the Inquirer by phone that the authorities had already identified the group that snatched Rogelio Narciso, 61, on Wednesday.
He said the group was led by Wali Pelaez, a Maranaw, who has been accused of such other crimes as robbery and cattle rustling in the province.
Narciso was abducted in the village of Palao, which he heads, by at least 10 armed men identified as members of the notorious Tundra group. He was on his way home when he was abducted.
“The armed group brought Narciso to the hinterlands of Munai, also in Lanao del Norte, and have allegedly demanded P1 million,” Tejares said, without specifying who provided him the information.
Mayor Lorenzo Manegos of Kolambugan said there were people trying to obtain Narciso’s release and they included a prominent member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
But Manegos said nobody had told him about the ransom demand.
“I haven’t received any information on that matter but I can confirm that there are efforts now to secure the victim from his kidnappers,” Manegos said.
While negotiations were being held for Narciso’s freedom, the military said it was conducting operations aimed at pressuring the kidnappers into releasing the victim.
Tejares said the military was coordinating with the MILF’s ceasefire group in Lanao del Norte – headed by Abas Salung – for the operation, which involved the police and other Army units.
He said the military could not just deploy troops into Munai, where the victim was thought to have been taken, because the area was considered part of MILF territory.
Meanwhile, Manegos said he was worried about the health of Narciso and has sent him medicines through the vice mayor of Munai town.
“The old man is hypertensive,” he said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/607094/kidnappers-demand-p1m-for-lanao-village-chief-says-military
Japan says Chinese ships sail through disputed waters
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 31): Japan says Chinese ships sail through disputed waters
Two Chinese coast guard ships sailed through disputed waters off Japan-administered islands in the East China Sea Saturday, officials said, as the United States warned Beijing over increasing territorial assertiveness.
The Japanese coast guard said the vessels entered the 12-nautical-mile band of territorial waters around one of the Senkaku islands, which China also claims and calls the Diaoyus, around 10 a.m. (0100 GMT).
The two ships moved out of the zone about three hours later, it added.
Chinese vessels and aircraft have regularly approached the East China Sea archipelago — thought to harbor natural resources — since Tokyo nationalized some of the islands in September 2012, setting off the latest spate of incidents in a long-running territorial dispute.
Saturday’s incursion was the first of official Chinese vessels into the disputed waters since May 2 and the 12th this year.
China is also locked in territorial disputes, in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost entirely.
There have been incidences of Vietnam and China ramming each other’s vessels recently while in 2012 the Philippines lost control of rich fishing grounds after a tense standoff with China.
Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam — claim parts of the sea, with Manila and Hanoi being the most vocal in opposing China’s claims. Taiwan is also a claimant.
At the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore Saturday, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel accused China of “destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea.
He also warned that Washington would not “look the other way” if international order is threatened.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/105464/japan-says-chinese-ships-sail-through-disputed-waters
Two Chinese coast guard ships sailed through disputed waters off Japan-administered islands in the East China Sea Saturday, officials said, as the United States warned Beijing over increasing territorial assertiveness.
The Japanese coast guard said the vessels entered the 12-nautical-mile band of territorial waters around one of the Senkaku islands, which China also claims and calls the Diaoyus, around 10 a.m. (0100 GMT).
The two ships moved out of the zone about three hours later, it added.
Chinese vessels and aircraft have regularly approached the East China Sea archipelago — thought to harbor natural resources — since Tokyo nationalized some of the islands in September 2012, setting off the latest spate of incidents in a long-running territorial dispute.
Saturday’s incursion was the first of official Chinese vessels into the disputed waters since May 2 and the 12th this year.
China is also locked in territorial disputes, in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost entirely.
There have been incidences of Vietnam and China ramming each other’s vessels recently while in 2012 the Philippines lost control of rich fishing grounds after a tense standoff with China.
Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam — claim parts of the sea, with Manila and Hanoi being the most vocal in opposing China’s claims. Taiwan is also a claimant.
At the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore Saturday, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel accused China of “destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea.
He also warned that Washington would not “look the other way” if international order is threatened.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/105464/japan-says-chinese-ships-sail-through-disputed-waters
Report: Pinay abducted in Sabah threatened with beheading
From GMA News (Jun 1): Report: Pinay abducted in Sabah threatened with beheading
Marcelita Dayawan, the Filipina resort worker abducted from a floating resort in Sabah April 2, was threatened with beheading if ransom was not paid for a Chinese tourist kidnapped along with her, a Malaysian news site reported Sunday.
A report on Malaysia's The Star Online said Dayawan, 40 was "constantly threatened" if the family of Chinese tourist Gao Huayun did not pay ransom for both of them "within 20 days."
However, the two women were not harmed and had daily meals of rice and fish. They were served vegetables once.
"Both the women, who often cried during captivity, had never thought they would be released one day and were thankful for their freedom," the report said.
Dayawan and Gao spent 58 days in captivity in Jolo where they were guarded by at least 40 gunmen, the report indicated.
"The heavily armed Abu Sayyaf men, ranging from teenagers to men in their 40s, kept a close watch on the hostages in the forested area within a village in Jolo," the report said.
The report also said the two were abducted by a kidnap-for-ransom group based in Tawi-Tawi. The group then turned them over to a group with ties to the Abu Sayyaf.
Both women regained their freedom Friday and were brought to Sabah, though authorities are still checking Dayawan's travel documents.
'Negotiations'
The report said mediators secured the release of the two after "weeks" of negotiations.
They were then brought from Jolo to Sandakan and then to Kota Kinabalu where they were debriefed. Both left for Kuala Lumpur Saturday.
But while Gao flew back to Shanghai, police checked Dayawan's travel documentation before sending her back to the Philippines.
Third woman?
The Star Online report also said there was a third woman with the two captives, but authorities are not sure if she was a hostage or part of the group.
Meanwhile, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib said police had released Dayawan's family members after questioning.
But he said they were still checking if Dayawan was linked to the kidnapping.
Another captive
Sabah authorities are working for the release of another Chinese, Yong Zai Lin, 34, who armed men abducted from the Wonder Terrace Fish Farm in Lahad Datu on May 9.
The Star Online report quoted sources as saying "another" Abu Sayyaf group is holding Yong.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363629/news/regions/report-pinay-abducted-in-sabah-threatened-with-beheading
Marcelita Dayawan, the Filipina resort worker abducted from a floating resort in Sabah April 2, was threatened with beheading if ransom was not paid for a Chinese tourist kidnapped along with her, a Malaysian news site reported Sunday.
A report on Malaysia's The Star Online said Dayawan, 40 was "constantly threatened" if the family of Chinese tourist Gao Huayun did not pay ransom for both of them "within 20 days."
However, the two women were not harmed and had daily meals of rice and fish. They were served vegetables once.
"Both the women, who often cried during captivity, had never thought they would be released one day and were thankful for their freedom," the report said.
Dayawan and Gao spent 58 days in captivity in Jolo where they were guarded by at least 40 gunmen, the report indicated.
"The heavily armed Abu Sayyaf men, ranging from teenagers to men in their 40s, kept a close watch on the hostages in the forested area within a village in Jolo," the report said.
The report also said the two were abducted by a kidnap-for-ransom group based in Tawi-Tawi. The group then turned them over to a group with ties to the Abu Sayyaf.
Both women regained their freedom Friday and were brought to Sabah, though authorities are still checking Dayawan's travel documents.
'Negotiations'
The report said mediators secured the release of the two after "weeks" of negotiations.
They were then brought from Jolo to Sandakan and then to Kota Kinabalu where they were debriefed. Both left for Kuala Lumpur Saturday.
But while Gao flew back to Shanghai, police checked Dayawan's travel documentation before sending her back to the Philippines.
Third woman?
The Star Online report also said there was a third woman with the two captives, but authorities are not sure if she was a hostage or part of the group.
Meanwhile, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib said police had released Dayawan's family members after questioning.
But he said they were still checking if Dayawan was linked to the kidnapping.
Another captive
Sabah authorities are working for the release of another Chinese, Yong Zai Lin, 34, who armed men abducted from the Wonder Terrace Fish Farm in Lahad Datu on May 9.
The Star Online report quoted sources as saying "another" Abu Sayyaf group is holding Yong.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363629/news/regions/report-pinay-abducted-in-sabah-threatened-with-beheading
AFP eyes letting US troops use Ulugan, Oyster Bays under EDCA
From GMA News (May 31): AFP eyes letting US troops use Ulugan, Oyster Bays under EDCA
Pristine Ulugan and Oyster Bays in Palawan province do not only have great value not only as a haven for nature lovers, but great strategic potential for the military.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is considering allowing the United States military to use the venues for training, under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
"(K)asi nakita natin ang potential niya at kailangan magkaroon ng paraan para ito ma-develop into a naval facility," AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in an interview with GMA News' "Saksi."
EDCA, signed earlier this year by the Philippines and the US, expands cooperation between the two countries and allows the US military to build military facilities in "agreed locations."
It is seen to help the Philippines deter incursions by countries like China to disputed parts of the South China Sea, which the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea
GMA News' Ian Cruz noted Ulugan Bay is a harbor for sea vessels especially in bad weather.
[Video News Report]
The military's Naval Forces West had moved its headquarters there while the Navy has a detachment in the area, he added.
On the other hand, Oyster Bay is a potentially strategic area considered for US troops' use, as one can get to the West Philippine Sea from there via Ulugan Bay.
Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez noted such a potential setup could be a deterrent to outsiders.
"Aba e presence lang nila rito, marami nang matatakot di papasok. Tama na yan, that alone is a deterrent by itself," he said.
As for concerns that the development could disrupt the natural beauty there, Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo Bayron said there should be a balance between development and nature.
"(P)wede naman magkaroon ng balanse," he said.
For their part, local fishermen said any development of the area should not affect their livelihood.
"Okay lang naman yan 'di makasagabal sa hanapbuhay ng mga mangingisda sa malapit," said one.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363538/news/nation/afp-eyes-letting-us-troops-use-ulugan-oyster-bays-under-edca
Pristine Ulugan and Oyster Bays in Palawan province do not only have great value not only as a haven for nature lovers, but great strategic potential for the military.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is considering allowing the United States military to use the venues for training, under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
"(K)asi nakita natin ang potential niya at kailangan magkaroon ng paraan para ito ma-develop into a naval facility," AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in an interview with GMA News' "Saksi."
EDCA, signed earlier this year by the Philippines and the US, expands cooperation between the two countries and allows the US military to build military facilities in "agreed locations."
It is seen to help the Philippines deter incursions by countries like China to disputed parts of the South China Sea, which the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea
GMA News' Ian Cruz noted Ulugan Bay is a harbor for sea vessels especially in bad weather.
[Video News Report]
The military's Naval Forces West had moved its headquarters there while the Navy has a detachment in the area, he added.
On the other hand, Oyster Bay is a potentially strategic area considered for US troops' use, as one can get to the West Philippine Sea from there via Ulugan Bay.
Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez noted such a potential setup could be a deterrent to outsiders.
"Aba e presence lang nila rito, marami nang matatakot di papasok. Tama na yan, that alone is a deterrent by itself," he said.
As for concerns that the development could disrupt the natural beauty there, Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo Bayron said there should be a balance between development and nature.
"(P)wede naman magkaroon ng balanse," he said.
For their part, local fishermen said any development of the area should not affect their livelihood.
"Okay lang naman yan 'di makasagabal sa hanapbuhay ng mga mangingisda sa malapit," said one.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/363538/news/nation/afp-eyes-letting-us-troops-use-ulugan-oyster-bays-under-edca
US, China trade barbs over maritime friction
From the Daily Tribune (Jun 1): US, China trade barbs over maritime friction
American and Chinese officials traded heated words yesterday over the South China Sea friction as US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel denounced China’s “destabilizing, unilateral actions asserting its claims in the South China Sea” while Chinese army’s deputy chief of staff Wang Guanzhong blasted the United States for making “threats” at a security forum in Singapore which both officials attended.
Wang described Hagel’s comments at the Shangri-La Dialogue as baseless. “Secretary Hagel’s speech is full of threats and intimidating language.
Secretary Hagel’s speech is full of encouragement, incitement for the Asia region’s instability giving rise to a disturbance,” state broadcaster China Central Television quoted Wang as telling reporters.
“Secretary Hagel, in this kind of public space with many people, openly criticized China without reason. This accusation is completely without basis,” Wang said.
Tensions recently flared in the South China Sea, claimed almost entirely by China, which has lately taken bold steps to enforce what it says are its historical rights.
Wang added the value of the Shangri-La Dialogue was to encourage exchanges, sometimes blunt, between governments and think-tanks but China should not be accused without basis, CCTV said.
China’s official Xinhua news agency on Saturday accused the United States of raising tensions in Asia, following Hagel’s speech.
“The United States has been trying to practise its approach of ensuring the safety of its allies by maintaining its military dominance,” it said.
“It even adopted the strategy of stoking fires to do this with the influence felt and visibly seen behind the tensions on the South China Sea.”
China has sought to counter Washington’s foreign policy “pivot” to Asia, but it has also angered Vietnam, Japan and the Philippines, the latter two US allies, with what those countries say are aggressive moves in separate maritime rows.
Relations between China and Vietnam have worsened after Beijing sent a deep-water oil drilling rig into contested waters in the South China Sea. The Philippines accused China of reclaiming land on a disputed reef within its exclusive economic zone under a United Nations convention, while Beijing and Tokyo have a long-running feud over disputed islands in the East China Sea.
Last Friday, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, also speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, vowed that his country would play a larger role in promoting peace in Asia and called for the rule of law to be upheld in the region.
Another commentary published by Xinhua on yesterday dismissed the speech as seeking to mask Japan’s military ambitions.
“Such rhetoric is fundamentally flawed when it came from the nationalist leader who has been trying to conjure up the militarist past of Japan in a drive to re-arm his country,” it said.
Stressing US commitments to allies and friends in Asia, Hagel called for a peaceful resolution of maritime disputes and issued a blunt message to China, which was represented by a high-level military delegation.
Hagel accused China of restricting the Philippines’ access to Scarborough Shoal, putting pressure on Manila’s long-standing presence in Second Thomas Shoal, beginning land reclamation at various locations and moving an oil rig into disputed waters with Vietnam.
Hagel said that while the United States does not take sides on rival claims, “we firmly oppose any nation’s use of intimidation, coercion, or the threat of force to assert these claims”.
“The United States will not look the other way when fundamental principles of the international order are being challenged,” he said.
Veteran diplomat Fu Ying, head of the foreign affairs committee in China’s rubber-stamp parliament, did not refer to Hagel by name but said countries should “not keep resorting to the 20th century mentality which is about war and conflict.”
She added that “in the 21st century, we don’t have a world state and no country can claim that they own the law, they own the management of the sea. “All countries have to work together based on mutual respect,” she said.
Four Southeast Asian states — Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam — claim parts of the South China Sea, which China claims in nearly its entirety, citing what it calls historic rights. Taiwan is the sixth claimant.
In the latest outbreak of tensions, Vietnam accused Chinese warships Thursday of pointing weapons at their vessels during an escalating standoff near an oil rig in contested waters. There have also been ramming incidents involving boats from both sides.
The South China Sea straddles vital shipping lanes, and some of the disputed islets and shoals are believed to sit atop vast energy deposits.
China is also in dispute with Japan over islands in the East Sea, which Tokyo calls Senkaku and Beijing refers to as Diaoyu.
Last year, China declared an air defence identification zone in the East Sea, including over the outcrops, which are under Japan’s administration.
In his speech, Hagel reiterated that the United States opposes “any effort by any nation to restrict overflight or freedom of navigation, whether from military or civilian vessels, from countries big or small”.
Restating a US declaration, he said “the Senkaku Islands fall under our mutual defence treaty with Japan” and backed Tokyo’s plans to play a greater role in maintaining security in Asia.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe opened the Singapore forum Friday by saying his country would play a more “proactive” role in Asian security, including providing coast guard vessels to the Philippines and potentially Vietnam.
Hagel also pledged support to countries that are moving towards democracy, notably Myanmar.
He urged the Thai military junta that took power in a coup on May 22 to release people they have detained, end restrictions on freedom of expression, and “move immediately” to hold elections.
Hagel said that until that happens, the Pentagon will continue to suspend and reconsider US military assistance and engagements with Thailand.
Despite tough words for China’s behaviour in disputed Asian waters, Hagel also cited efforts to forge a “new model of relations” between Beijing and Washington, including military cooperation and multinational exercises.
“The United States is reaching out to China — because we seek to expand prosperity and security for all nations of the region,” he said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/us-china-trade-barbs-over-maritime-friction
American and Chinese officials traded heated words yesterday over the South China Sea friction as US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel denounced China’s “destabilizing, unilateral actions asserting its claims in the South China Sea” while Chinese army’s deputy chief of staff Wang Guanzhong blasted the United States for making “threats” at a security forum in Singapore which both officials attended.
Wang described Hagel’s comments at the Shangri-La Dialogue as baseless. “Secretary Hagel’s speech is full of threats and intimidating language.
Secretary Hagel’s speech is full of encouragement, incitement for the Asia region’s instability giving rise to a disturbance,” state broadcaster China Central Television quoted Wang as telling reporters.
“Secretary Hagel, in this kind of public space with many people, openly criticized China without reason. This accusation is completely without basis,” Wang said.
Tensions recently flared in the South China Sea, claimed almost entirely by China, which has lately taken bold steps to enforce what it says are its historical rights.
Wang added the value of the Shangri-La Dialogue was to encourage exchanges, sometimes blunt, between governments and think-tanks but China should not be accused without basis, CCTV said.
China’s official Xinhua news agency on Saturday accused the United States of raising tensions in Asia, following Hagel’s speech.
“The United States has been trying to practise its approach of ensuring the safety of its allies by maintaining its military dominance,” it said.
“It even adopted the strategy of stoking fires to do this with the influence felt and visibly seen behind the tensions on the South China Sea.”
China has sought to counter Washington’s foreign policy “pivot” to Asia, but it has also angered Vietnam, Japan and the Philippines, the latter two US allies, with what those countries say are aggressive moves in separate maritime rows.
Relations between China and Vietnam have worsened after Beijing sent a deep-water oil drilling rig into contested waters in the South China Sea. The Philippines accused China of reclaiming land on a disputed reef within its exclusive economic zone under a United Nations convention, while Beijing and Tokyo have a long-running feud over disputed islands in the East China Sea.
Last Friday, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, also speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, vowed that his country would play a larger role in promoting peace in Asia and called for the rule of law to be upheld in the region.
Another commentary published by Xinhua on yesterday dismissed the speech as seeking to mask Japan’s military ambitions.
“Such rhetoric is fundamentally flawed when it came from the nationalist leader who has been trying to conjure up the militarist past of Japan in a drive to re-arm his country,” it said.
Stressing US commitments to allies and friends in Asia, Hagel called for a peaceful resolution of maritime disputes and issued a blunt message to China, which was represented by a high-level military delegation.
Hagel accused China of restricting the Philippines’ access to Scarborough Shoal, putting pressure on Manila’s long-standing presence in Second Thomas Shoal, beginning land reclamation at various locations and moving an oil rig into disputed waters with Vietnam.
Hagel said that while the United States does not take sides on rival claims, “we firmly oppose any nation’s use of intimidation, coercion, or the threat of force to assert these claims”.
“The United States will not look the other way when fundamental principles of the international order are being challenged,” he said.
Veteran diplomat Fu Ying, head of the foreign affairs committee in China’s rubber-stamp parliament, did not refer to Hagel by name but said countries should “not keep resorting to the 20th century mentality which is about war and conflict.”
She added that “in the 21st century, we don’t have a world state and no country can claim that they own the law, they own the management of the sea. “All countries have to work together based on mutual respect,” she said.
Four Southeast Asian states — Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam — claim parts of the South China Sea, which China claims in nearly its entirety, citing what it calls historic rights. Taiwan is the sixth claimant.
In the latest outbreak of tensions, Vietnam accused Chinese warships Thursday of pointing weapons at their vessels during an escalating standoff near an oil rig in contested waters. There have also been ramming incidents involving boats from both sides.
The South China Sea straddles vital shipping lanes, and some of the disputed islets and shoals are believed to sit atop vast energy deposits.
China is also in dispute with Japan over islands in the East Sea, which Tokyo calls Senkaku and Beijing refers to as Diaoyu.
Last year, China declared an air defence identification zone in the East Sea, including over the outcrops, which are under Japan’s administration.
In his speech, Hagel reiterated that the United States opposes “any effort by any nation to restrict overflight or freedom of navigation, whether from military or civilian vessels, from countries big or small”.
Restating a US declaration, he said “the Senkaku Islands fall under our mutual defence treaty with Japan” and backed Tokyo’s plans to play a greater role in maintaining security in Asia.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe opened the Singapore forum Friday by saying his country would play a more “proactive” role in Asian security, including providing coast guard vessels to the Philippines and potentially Vietnam.
Hagel also pledged support to countries that are moving towards democracy, notably Myanmar.
He urged the Thai military junta that took power in a coup on May 22 to release people they have detained, end restrictions on freedom of expression, and “move immediately” to hold elections.
Hagel said that until that happens, the Pentagon will continue to suspend and reconsider US military assistance and engagements with Thailand.
Despite tough words for China’s behaviour in disputed Asian waters, Hagel also cited efforts to forge a “new model of relations” between Beijing and Washington, including military cooperation and multinational exercises.
“The United States is reaching out to China — because we seek to expand prosperity and security for all nations of the region,” he said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/us-china-trade-barbs-over-maritime-friction
Four foreign firms eye P5.9-billion DND patrol aircraft project
From the Business World (May 30): Four foreign firms eye P5.9-billion DND patrol aircraft project
At least four firms have expressed interest in joining the auction for the Department of National Defense’s (DND) P5.9-billion acquisition of two long-range patrol aircraft.
DND Public Affairs Service Chief Arsenio R. Andolong told BusinessWorld via telephone that, as of Friday -- the day of the project’s pre-bid conference -- four foreign companies have already bought bid documents, signifying their interest.
These included Canadian firm Field Aviation Ltd. and Israeli defense contractors Elbit Systems Ltd. and Elta Systems Ltd.
European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company -- Construcciones Aeronautics SA (EADS-CASA) Airbus, which earlier expressed interest in bidding for the DND’s P4.9-billion close air support aircraft acquisition project, also bought bid documents for the patrol aircraft project.
The project also entails supplying aircraft sensors and their integration with the DND’s systems.
The first stage of bidding is still scheduled for June 13 at the DND Bids and Awards Committee Conference room, DND building, Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
However, DND Public Affairs Service Chief Arsenio R. Andolong said that the agency might extend the bid deadline as requested by some bidders who were having trouble registering with the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS).
“We received requests to extend because may kaunting problems sa PhilGEPS... Mainly sa pagregister online (We received requests to extend because of a few problems with PhilGEPS... Mainly in registering online),” Mr Andolong said.
PhilGEPS is the online portal of the government that contains information on all its procurement processes and the awarding of contracts.
Under Republic Act 9184, otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors are required to register with PhilGEPS before they participate in bidding activities under the Philippine government.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Four-foreign-firms-eye-P5.9-billion-DND-patrol-aircraft-project&id=88317
At least four firms have expressed interest in joining the auction for the Department of National Defense’s (DND) P5.9-billion acquisition of two long-range patrol aircraft.
DND Public Affairs Service Chief Arsenio R. Andolong told BusinessWorld via telephone that, as of Friday -- the day of the project’s pre-bid conference -- four foreign companies have already bought bid documents, signifying their interest.
These included Canadian firm Field Aviation Ltd. and Israeli defense contractors Elbit Systems Ltd. and Elta Systems Ltd.
European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company -- Construcciones Aeronautics SA (EADS-CASA) Airbus, which earlier expressed interest in bidding for the DND’s P4.9-billion close air support aircraft acquisition project, also bought bid documents for the patrol aircraft project.
The project also entails supplying aircraft sensors and their integration with the DND’s systems.
The first stage of bidding is still scheduled for June 13 at the DND Bids and Awards Committee Conference room, DND building, Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
However, DND Public Affairs Service Chief Arsenio R. Andolong said that the agency might extend the bid deadline as requested by some bidders who were having trouble registering with the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS).
“We received requests to extend because may kaunting problems sa PhilGEPS... Mainly sa pagregister online (We received requests to extend because of a few problems with PhilGEPS... Mainly in registering online),” Mr Andolong said.
PhilGEPS is the online portal of the government that contains information on all its procurement processes and the awarding of contracts.
Under Republic Act 9184, otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors are required to register with PhilGEPS before they participate in bidding activities under the Philippine government.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Four-foreign-firms-eye-P5.9-billion-DND-patrol-aircraft-project&id=88317
Robbery, intimidation raps filed vs alleged Reds in Nasugbu
From ABS-CBN (May 31): Robbery, intimidation raps filed vs alleged Reds in Nasugbu
BATANGAS - Police have formally filed cases of robbery and intimidation against three suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) and 12 others in connection with the burning of construction equipment in Nasugbu town last May 3.
Senior Superintendent Omega Jireh Fidel, Batangas police director and head of Special Investigation Task Group (SITG)-Toreja identified the suspects as Leslie Cresino alias Dasia/Jesie/Olay, Remoso Franco and Michael Cabrera.
Fidel said the three were members of the Komite Probinsya ng Batangas or KOMPROB-Batangas of the NPA operating in the province.
According to the complaint sheet, the three rebels, including their 12 other comrades, were allegedly responsible in the burning of construction equipment owned by Dionisio Toreja of the Toreja Construction Company.
Police said the three rebels were positively identified by the workers from the rouges gallery.
At around 9 p.m., the rebels allegedly stormed the construction site of Toreja in Sitio Buntog, Barangay Bulihan in Nasugbu and simultaneously burned two bulldozers, three backhoes, a grader, a road roller, a pay loader and a water tanker truck with an estimated cost of P25 million.
No one was reported hurt in the incident when the rebels herded all the workers in one location and confiscated all their cellphones.
Police and members of the 730th Combat Group of the Philippine Air Force responded to the incident, but the rebels were able to escape towards Magallanes town in Cavite.
Fidel said they will file cases of arson against the suspects after other evidences have been completed.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/31/14/robbery-intimidation-raps-filed-vs-alleged-reds-nasugbu
BATANGAS - Police have formally filed cases of robbery and intimidation against three suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) and 12 others in connection with the burning of construction equipment in Nasugbu town last May 3.
Senior Superintendent Omega Jireh Fidel, Batangas police director and head of Special Investigation Task Group (SITG)-Toreja identified the suspects as Leslie Cresino alias Dasia/Jesie/Olay, Remoso Franco and Michael Cabrera.
Fidel said the three were members of the Komite Probinsya ng Batangas or KOMPROB-Batangas of the NPA operating in the province.
According to the complaint sheet, the three rebels, including their 12 other comrades, were allegedly responsible in the burning of construction equipment owned by Dionisio Toreja of the Toreja Construction Company.
Police said the three rebels were positively identified by the workers from the rouges gallery.
At around 9 p.m., the rebels allegedly stormed the construction site of Toreja in Sitio Buntog, Barangay Bulihan in Nasugbu and simultaneously burned two bulldozers, three backhoes, a grader, a road roller, a pay loader and a water tanker truck with an estimated cost of P25 million.
No one was reported hurt in the incident when the rebels herded all the workers in one location and confiscated all their cellphones.
Police and members of the 730th Combat Group of the Philippine Air Force responded to the incident, but the rebels were able to escape towards Magallanes town in Cavite.
Fidel said they will file cases of arson against the suspects after other evidences have been completed.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/05/31/14/robbery-intimidation-raps-filed-vs-alleged-reds-nasugbu
3 MNLF communities in North Cotabato reap ‘fruits of peace’
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (May 31): 3 MNLF communities in North Cotabato reap ‘fruits of peace’
Surrounded by wide swathes of cornfields, three interior villages in Midsayap town here are gearing for brighter economic prospects as the dividends of peace reached them through the government’s PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or Peaceful and Resilient Communities) program.
“Alagaan po natin ang mga proyektong ito na tanda sa patuloy na pagrespeto ng gobyerno sa 1996 Final Peace Agreement (Let us take care of these projects, which are proofs that the government continues to respect the 1996 Final Peace Agreement),” Ustadz Dadting Eman said.
Eman, chairman of the North East Kutawato State Revolutionary Committee of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), portrayed the picture of a “fulfilled” leader as he inspects the agriculture-related projects in the area under PAMANA, which were turned over last year.
“These projects are my legacy to you,” said Eman, a known follower of MNLF founding chair Nur Misuari.
Eman noted that thousands of community members from the three barangays will benefit from the PAMANA projects.
These projects were implemented in areas with the presence of the MNLF, which signed a final peace deal with the government on September 2, 1996, but they will also benefit members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) living harmoniously alongside the former.
The projects include a solar drier in Barangay Olandang; four corn shellers, four hand tractors with trailers, a solar drier and a building with a mini-corn mill equipment in Barangay Nabalawag; and a warehouse, a solar drier, one hand tractor with trailer and a building with a mini-corn mill equipment in Barangay Kadingilan.
The projects were implemented by the provincial government of North Cotabato, headed by Gov. Emmylou Mendoza.
Mendoza's deputy governor for Muslim affairs, Edris Gandalibo, said the government is trying its best to address the needs of conflict-affected areas by providing projects that would foster peace and development.
"Without peace, it would be hard for development projects to come in, so let us continue to nurture the peace in our communities," Gandalibo said.
Peng Lakiman, Barangay Kadingilan chairperson, echoed the sentiments of Gandalibo, saying that development projects failed to reach them before because of the armed conflict that was brought not only by the Moro rebellion against the government but also by rido (clan war).
“But because there is better peace now, development projects are coming in to our area,” said Lakiman, a former commander of the MILF’s 16th Brigade under the 105th Base Command.
Lakiman thanked the provincial government and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) for the projects in his village, which is about nine kilometers from the town proper.
“Our farmers here will no longer go to the town proper to have their corn milled. It’s a big factor in reducing the transportation cost that would translate to savings, hence bigger income to them,” Lakiman said.
A two-term village chairman, he vowed to lead the way in taking good care of the projects that were turned over to them for their sustainability.
Lakiman, who went back to the folds of the law in 2009 for the sake of his family, also expressed support to the peace process of the GPH and the MILF, which is now nearing completion.
“The problem in Mindanao will not be solved by the barrel of guns but only through sincere dialogue,” said Lakiman, known back then as “Kumander Samurai.”
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/3-mnlf-communities-in-north-cotabato.html
Surrounded by wide swathes of cornfields, three interior villages in Midsayap town here are gearing for brighter economic prospects as the dividends of peace reached them through the government’s PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or Peaceful and Resilient Communities) program.
“Alagaan po natin ang mga proyektong ito na tanda sa patuloy na pagrespeto ng gobyerno sa 1996 Final Peace Agreement (Let us take care of these projects, which are proofs that the government continues to respect the 1996 Final Peace Agreement),” Ustadz Dadting Eman said.
Eman, chairman of the North East Kutawato State Revolutionary Committee of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), portrayed the picture of a “fulfilled” leader as he inspects the agriculture-related projects in the area under PAMANA, which were turned over last year.
“These projects are my legacy to you,” said Eman, a known follower of MNLF founding chair Nur Misuari.
Eman noted that thousands of community members from the three barangays will benefit from the PAMANA projects.
These projects were implemented in areas with the presence of the MNLF, which signed a final peace deal with the government on September 2, 1996, but they will also benefit members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) living harmoniously alongside the former.
The projects include a solar drier in Barangay Olandang; four corn shellers, four hand tractors with trailers, a solar drier and a building with a mini-corn mill equipment in Barangay Nabalawag; and a warehouse, a solar drier, one hand tractor with trailer and a building with a mini-corn mill equipment in Barangay Kadingilan.
The projects were implemented by the provincial government of North Cotabato, headed by Gov. Emmylou Mendoza.
Mendoza's deputy governor for Muslim affairs, Edris Gandalibo, said the government is trying its best to address the needs of conflict-affected areas by providing projects that would foster peace and development.
"Without peace, it would be hard for development projects to come in, so let us continue to nurture the peace in our communities," Gandalibo said.
Peng Lakiman, Barangay Kadingilan chairperson, echoed the sentiments of Gandalibo, saying that development projects failed to reach them before because of the armed conflict that was brought not only by the Moro rebellion against the government but also by rido (clan war).
“But because there is better peace now, development projects are coming in to our area,” said Lakiman, a former commander of the MILF’s 16th Brigade under the 105th Base Command.
Lakiman thanked the provincial government and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) for the projects in his village, which is about nine kilometers from the town proper.
“Our farmers here will no longer go to the town proper to have their corn milled. It’s a big factor in reducing the transportation cost that would translate to savings, hence bigger income to them,” Lakiman said.
A two-term village chairman, he vowed to lead the way in taking good care of the projects that were turned over to them for their sustainability.
Lakiman, who went back to the folds of the law in 2009 for the sake of his family, also expressed support to the peace process of the GPH and the MILF, which is now nearing completion.
“The problem in Mindanao will not be solved by the barrel of guns but only through sincere dialogue,” said Lakiman, known back then as “Kumander Samurai.”
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/3-mnlf-communities-in-north-cotabato.html
Blast hits Philippine town
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (May 31): Blast hits Philippine town
A powerful improvised explosive went off Saturday outside the house of a village chieftain in Lambayong town in Sultan Kudarat province in southern Philippines, police said.
Police said blast damaged a truck parked outside the house of Ferdinand Agduma, but no one was killed or injured in the noontime attack. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing and police launched an investigation into the blast.
Agduma is the son of the current town mayor, Florante Agduma, and police are investigating whether the bombing was connected to politics or not, or if the official was the target of the attack.
Police said the bomb used in the attack was assembled from a 60mm mortar.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/blast-hits-philippine-town.html
A powerful improvised explosive went off Saturday outside the house of a village chieftain in Lambayong town in Sultan Kudarat province in southern Philippines, police said.
Police said blast damaged a truck parked outside the house of Ferdinand Agduma, but no one was killed or injured in the noontime attack. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing and police launched an investigation into the blast.
Agduma is the son of the current town mayor, Florante Agduma, and police are investigating whether the bombing was connected to politics or not, or if the official was the target of the attack.
Police said the bomb used in the attack was assembled from a 60mm mortar.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/05/blast-hits-philippine-town.html
Eastern Mindanao Command to focus on safe release of abducted DENR inspectors in Compostela Valley
From the Philippine News Agency (May 31): Eastern Mindanao Command to focus on safe release of abducted DENR inspectors in Compostela Valley
The Eastern Mindanao Command on Saturday announced that it will focus all its efforts to ensure the safe release of the six Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) inspectors who were abducted by still unidentified armed men in Barangay New Leyte, Maco town,Compostela Valley
“Our primary concern is for the safe release of the civilians," Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III said.
Six DENR survey inspectors were abducted by still unidentified armed men in the above-mentioned area 2 p.m. Friday.
The victims were on their way to undertake validation and survey on the National Greening Program of the government in the area when snatched by the suspects.
The survey inspectors were identified as Kendrik Wong; Nico Lasaca; Chris Favila, Matthew Cua, Jonas Loredo and Tim Sabina.
Soldiers from the 1001st Infantry Brigade have joined the Philippine National Police in the pursuit operations.
While the local government unit of Maco has already directed the local officials of New Leyte to investigate the incident since there was no group that claimed responsibility in the abduction.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=649019
The Eastern Mindanao Command on Saturday announced that it will focus all its efforts to ensure the safe release of the six Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) inspectors who were abducted by still unidentified armed men in Barangay New Leyte, Maco town,
“Our primary concern is for the safe release of the civilians," Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III said.
Six DENR survey inspectors were abducted by still unidentified armed men in the above-mentioned area 2 p.m. Friday.
The victims were on their way to undertake validation and survey on the National Greening Program of the government in the area when snatched by the suspects.
The survey inspectors were identified as Kendrik Wong; Nico Lasaca; Chris Favila, Matthew Cua, Jonas Loredo and Tim Sabina.
Soldiers from the 1001st Infantry Brigade have joined the Philippine National Police in the pursuit operations.
While the local government unit of Maco has already directed the local officials of New Leyte to investigate the incident since there was no group that claimed responsibility in the abduction.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=649019
Malacanang welcomes release of two Abu Sayyaf hostages
From the Philippine News Agency (May 31): Malacanang welcomes release of two Abu Sayyaf hostages
The Palace welcomed the released of a Filipino resort worker and a Chinese tourist abducted by the Abu Sayyaf Group inSabah , Malaysia
Filipino resort worker Marcelita Dayawan and Gao Hua Yuan, a Chinese national, were kidnapped inSabah last April.
"Mainam na balita ‘yan at subject nga ito for verification, ikinalulugod po natin ang balitang tulad niyan sapagkat hindi po tayo tumitigil sa paglaban sa mga aksyon na ganyan na kriminalidad at nakakaapekto sa imahe ng ating bansa," President Communications Operations Office secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said in an interview Saturday.
The Palace official told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan about the importance of cooperation among neighboring countries such asMalaysia ,
Indonesia and the Philippines
Malaysia
"Ganoon nga ang ating saloobin tungkol diyan at maaari din sigurong matukoy dito ‘yung mainam na pakikipag-ugnayan ng ating bansa sa ating mga kapit-bansa tulad ngMalaysia
These neighboring countries share coast border issues such as crimes being committed in a particular location and criminals relocating to other nations, he said, noting the necessity of close cooperation among these countries.
The two women were snatched from Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort in the town ofSemporna in Sabah
on April 2.
The victims were first brought by their captors to Tawi-Tawi before they escaped by boat to Sulu and reportedly handed the hostages to another Abu Sayyaf group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=649015
The Palace welcomed the released of a Filipino resort worker and a Chinese tourist abducted by the Abu Sayyaf Group in
Filipino resort worker Marcelita Dayawan and Gao Hua Yuan, a Chinese national, were kidnapped in
"Mainam na balita ‘yan at subject nga ito for verification, ikinalulugod po natin ang balitang tulad niyan sapagkat hindi po tayo tumitigil sa paglaban sa mga aksyon na ganyan na kriminalidad at nakakaapekto sa imahe ng ating bansa," President Communications Operations Office secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said in an interview Saturday.
The Palace official told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan about the importance of cooperation among neighboring countries such as
"Ganoon nga ang ating saloobin tungkol diyan at maaari din sigurong matukoy dito ‘yung mainam na pakikipag-ugnayan ng ating bansa sa ating mga kapit-bansa tulad ng
These neighboring countries share coast border issues such as crimes being committed in a particular location and criminals relocating to other nations, he said, noting the necessity of close cooperation among these countries.
The two women were snatched from Singamata Adventures and Reef Resort in the town of
The victims were first brought by their captors to Tawi-Tawi before they escaped by boat to Sulu and reportedly handed the hostages to another Abu Sayyaf group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=649015
Close formation flying also done to deceive enemy radars-- PAF
From the Philippine News Agency (May 31): Close formation flying also done to deceive enemy radars-- PAF
Although its purpose is to ensure mutual support among friendly aircraft, close formation flying is also done to deceive enemy radars, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said.
"Close formation is used to deceive (enemy) radars (friendly planes will fly so close to appear as) one big aircraft if detected," he added.
By this method, two to six planes can appear as one aircraft in enemy radar scopes, thus deceiving the latter about the exact size of the formation.
Canaya earlier said that upon arrival of the 12 South Korean F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft, whose contract was signed last March 28, the aircraft will be deployed in pairs while on operational missions.
"We always fly in formation during operational missions. This is ensure mutual protection. Single aircraft (are) allowed (to fly) during training and administration flights where (no) threat is expected," he stressed.
Canaya was referring to the formation where the first aircraft is designated the "lead" and the second one as the "wingman".
Under this setup, the "wingman" is responsible for protecting his leader's tail (six o'clock position in fighter parlance) against possible threats, giving the lead plane a chance to conduct its own attack.
Canaya also said that the F/A-50 will be used for air defense missions.
"It will be used for air defense, a vital component of territorial defense which is a constitutional mandate of the AFP (Armed Forces of thePhilippines
Air defense refers to the capability to detect and protect a country's airspace against aerial intruders.
Canaya said that this is possible as the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) made jet plane has basic fighter capabilities.
"The F/A-50 (can train) fighter pilots and has basic capabilities jet fighter capabilities," he added.
ThePhilippines and South Korea
It is worth P18. 9 billion.
Canaya said the South Korean jet aircraft can be used to redevelop the supersonic capabilities of the PAF whose last supersonic planes, the Northrop F-5 "Tiger", was retired last 2005.
The F/A-50, as per technical specifications obtained from the Department of National Defense, can carry a total of 10,500lbs of weapons including an internal 20mm internal automatic cannon, two short-ranged air-to-air AIM-9 "Sidewinder" missiles and air-to-surface AGM-65 missiles for close-air support.
A guidance kit called the JDAM (joint direct attack munition) is also installed into the F/A-50, allowing it to convert unguided or "dumb bombs" into all-weather smart munitions.
These bombs are outfitted with an inertial guidance system that is tied to a global positioning system receiver to guide the deployed munition intended to precisely hit a specific target, and to minimize collateral damage.
This is the ever PAF aircraft to employ such weapons as the Northrop F-5 "Tiger" and Vought F-8 "Crusader" which are the country's first and class supersonic fighters do not have the above-mentioned capabilities.
Both planes are only armed with 20mm cannons, air-to-air missiles and unguided bombs and rockets.
ThePhilippines
KAI's F/A-50 has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and half times the speed of sound.
The F/A-50 will act as the country's interim fighter until thePhilippines
The F/A-50 design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.
KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the F/A-50.
The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.
The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.
There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701US
An additional 1,710 liters (452US
Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.
The F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.
The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.
The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.4-1.5.
Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=649025
Although its purpose is to ensure mutual support among friendly aircraft, close formation flying is also done to deceive enemy radars, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said.
"Close formation is used to deceive (enemy) radars (friendly planes will fly so close to appear as) one big aircraft if detected," he added.
By this method, two to six planes can appear as one aircraft in enemy radar scopes, thus deceiving the latter about the exact size of the formation.
Canaya earlier said that upon arrival of the 12 South Korean F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft, whose contract was signed last March 28, the aircraft will be deployed in pairs while on operational missions.
"We always fly in formation during operational missions. This is ensure mutual protection. Single aircraft (are) allowed (to fly) during training and administration flights where (no) threat is expected," he stressed.
Canaya was referring to the formation where the first aircraft is designated the "lead" and the second one as the "wingman".
Under this setup, the "wingman" is responsible for protecting his leader's tail (six o'clock position in fighter parlance) against possible threats, giving the lead plane a chance to conduct its own attack.
Canaya also said that the F/A-50 will be used for air defense missions.
"It will be used for air defense, a vital component of territorial defense which is a constitutional mandate of the AFP (Armed Forces of the
Air defense refers to the capability to detect and protect a country's airspace against aerial intruders.
Canaya said that this is possible as the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) made jet plane has basic fighter capabilities.
"The F/A-50 (can train) fighter pilots and has basic capabilities jet fighter capabilities," he added.
The
It is worth P18. 9 billion.
Canaya said the South Korean jet aircraft can be used to redevelop the supersonic capabilities of the PAF whose last supersonic planes, the Northrop F-5 "Tiger", was retired last 2005.
The F/A-50, as per technical specifications obtained from the Department of National Defense, can carry a total of 10,500lbs of weapons including an internal 20mm internal automatic cannon, two short-ranged air-to-air AIM-9 "Sidewinder" missiles and air-to-surface AGM-65 missiles for close-air support.
A guidance kit called the JDAM (joint direct attack munition) is also installed into the F/A-50, allowing it to convert unguided or "dumb bombs" into all-weather smart munitions.
These bombs are outfitted with an inertial guidance system that is tied to a global positioning system receiver to guide the deployed munition intended to precisely hit a specific target, and to minimize collateral damage.
This is the ever PAF aircraft to employ such weapons as the Northrop F-5 "Tiger" and Vought F-8 "Crusader" which are the country's first and class supersonic fighters do not have the above-mentioned capabilities.
Both planes are only armed with 20mm cannons, air-to-air missiles and unguided bombs and rockets.
The
KAI's F/A-50 has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and half times the speed of sound.
The F/A-50 will act as the country's interim fighter until the
The F/A-50 design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.
KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the F/A-50.
The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.
The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.
There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701
An additional 1,710 liters (452
Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.
The F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.
The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.
The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.4-1.5.
Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=649025
US eyes use of Navy base in Cagayan
From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (May 31): US eyes use of Navy base in Cagayan
STA. ANA, Cagayan, Philippines--The United States may station troops at the Philippine Navy base here under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
Local officials disclosed that a team of US servicemen, accompanied by US embassy staff, inspected the Camilo Osias Naval Base facility in Barangay San Vicente here recently.
Located on the northern tip of Cagayan, Camilo Osias base has maritime and territorial jurisdiction over the country’s northern frontier – a portion of the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
A local official who saw the five US visitors said they were “introducing themselves as tourists... and proceeded to inspect the naval base.”
The local official asked not to be named, saying he is not authorized to speak on issues of national concern.
The base has a port and an airfield that can accommodate C-130 cargo planes, one of the requirements being considered by the US military leadership on the planned increased deployment of forces in the country.
An international airport, currently under construction, is now 80 percent complete in nearby Lal-lo town. The airport is being built to further bolster tourism in the northern end of Cagayan province. It can accommodate huge military cargo planes and fighter jets when it becomes operational.
Naval officials and personnel based here, however, declined to comment on the issue of the planned US troop deployment.
Defense Secretary Voltaire, for his part, Gazmin said this has yet to be agreed upon by the Philippines and the US governments.
Under EDCA, the US government, in line with its military pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, is allowed to increase the deployment of troops as well as its air and naval assets on rotation basis on the condition that they are barred from establishing their own bases, which should be co-located inside Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) military facilities.
While the legality of the newly signed agreement is being questioned by several groups, the national government is upbeat that the increased presence of US troops in the country’s western and northern frontiers will be a big boost to the country’s territorial and external defense while the military is rebuilding its own capability.
With its limited capability, the Philippine military is faced with a major challenge in dealing with increased intrusions of foreign military aircraft and ships and fishing vessels inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone, not only in the West Philippine Sea, but also in territorial waters of Batanes and at Bingham Rise in the Pacific Ocean.
At present a lone Philippine Coast Guard vessel and a small Navy patrol ship are alternately patrolling the waters of Batanes and Bingham Rise.
The areas are being developed as an alternate fishing ground for displaced Filipino fishermen from Zambales after they were no longer allowed to fish in their traditional fishing spots at Panatag Shoal by its Chinese occupants.
The planned deployment of US troops will be a first, unlike those at Subic, Zambales; Clark Air Field in Pampanga and Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/31/14/us-eyes-use-navy-base-cagayan
STA. ANA, Cagayan, Philippines--The United States may station troops at the Philippine Navy base here under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
Local officials disclosed that a team of US servicemen, accompanied by US embassy staff, inspected the Camilo Osias Naval Base facility in Barangay San Vicente here recently.
Located on the northern tip of Cagayan, Camilo Osias base has maritime and territorial jurisdiction over the country’s northern frontier – a portion of the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
A local official who saw the five US visitors said they were “introducing themselves as tourists... and proceeded to inspect the naval base.”
The local official asked not to be named, saying he is not authorized to speak on issues of national concern.
The base has a port and an airfield that can accommodate C-130 cargo planes, one of the requirements being considered by the US military leadership on the planned increased deployment of forces in the country.
An international airport, currently under construction, is now 80 percent complete in nearby Lal-lo town. The airport is being built to further bolster tourism in the northern end of Cagayan province. It can accommodate huge military cargo planes and fighter jets when it becomes operational.
Naval officials and personnel based here, however, declined to comment on the issue of the planned US troop deployment.
Defense Secretary Voltaire, for his part, Gazmin said this has yet to be agreed upon by the Philippines and the US governments.
Under EDCA, the US government, in line with its military pivot to the Asia-Pacific region, is allowed to increase the deployment of troops as well as its air and naval assets on rotation basis on the condition that they are barred from establishing their own bases, which should be co-located inside Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) military facilities.
While the legality of the newly signed agreement is being questioned by several groups, the national government is upbeat that the increased presence of US troops in the country’s western and northern frontiers will be a big boost to the country’s territorial and external defense while the military is rebuilding its own capability.
With its limited capability, the Philippine military is faced with a major challenge in dealing with increased intrusions of foreign military aircraft and ships and fishing vessels inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone, not only in the West Philippine Sea, but also in territorial waters of Batanes and at Bingham Rise in the Pacific Ocean.
At present a lone Philippine Coast Guard vessel and a small Navy patrol ship are alternately patrolling the waters of Batanes and Bingham Rise.
The areas are being developed as an alternate fishing ground for displaced Filipino fishermen from Zambales after they were no longer allowed to fish in their traditional fishing spots at Panatag Shoal by its Chinese occupants.
The planned deployment of US troops will be a first, unlike those at Subic, Zambales; Clark Air Field in Pampanga and Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/31/14/us-eyes-use-navy-base-cagayan
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