From AngMalaya (Jul 26): New AFP Chief says country needs EDCA implementation urgently
“If [Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement] is delayed, we might not be able to respond immediately if there are strong typhoons. We want to pre-position HADR [humanitarian assistance and disaster response] equipment, airplanes and boats. There will be a big effect if we do not [implement it],” said Armed Forces Chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang defending EDCA.
The military chief emphasized that the country needs it as soon sa possible. “It’s really urgent. It is really urgent. And it should be implemented as soon as possible.”
Catapang also said the Supreme Court, who recently declared DAP as unconstitutional, has the final say on EDCA’s constitutionality.
“This is a free country. You can talk. You can file cases and hopefully it will be decided upon by the Supreme Court. We’ll just await the Supreme Court decision.”
Before the week ends, another impeachment complaint was filed by militant groups against Aquino, this time, using EDCA. According to them EDCA violated the constitution and Aquino commits betrayal of public trust.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/07/26/2579-new-afp-chief-says-country-needs-edca-implementation-urgently
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Gunmen abduct businessman's 9-year-old daughter
From the Philippine Star (Jul 26): Gunmen abduct businessman's 9-year-old daughter
Five unidentified gunmen abducted a businessman's 9-year old daughter late Friday in the island town of Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Police identified the victim as Princess Jewel Mariel Nique, a grade 3 pupil and daughter of a general merchandise operator who runs a snackhouse in Barangay Solar.
Two of the suspects pretended as customers before two other men came in with their M16 rifles concealed in a sack. They forcibly took the young victim about 6 p.m. before the presence of her horrified parents identified as Emban and Aming Nique.
The suspects dragged the victim toward another companion waiting on a speedboat, which then sped to the direction of Basilan.
Prior to the escape of the suspects, witnesses heard gun fire that was traced later as alarm shots fired by the victim's family.
Capt. Franco Suelto, spokesman of army's 1st Division, said troops have been alerted to the possible presence of the suspects for the rescue of the young victim.
Police said the kidnappers have not established contact to the victim’s family.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/07/26/1350620/gunmen-abduct-businessmans-9-year-old-daughter
Five unidentified gunmen abducted a businessman's 9-year old daughter late Friday in the island town of Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Police identified the victim as Princess Jewel Mariel Nique, a grade 3 pupil and daughter of a general merchandise operator who runs a snackhouse in Barangay Solar.
Two of the suspects pretended as customers before two other men came in with their M16 rifles concealed in a sack. They forcibly took the young victim about 6 p.m. before the presence of her horrified parents identified as Emban and Aming Nique.
The suspects dragged the victim toward another companion waiting on a speedboat, which then sped to the direction of Basilan.
Prior to the escape of the suspects, witnesses heard gun fire that was traced later as alarm shots fired by the victim's family.
Capt. Franco Suelto, spokesman of army's 1st Division, said troops have been alerted to the possible presence of the suspects for the rescue of the young victim.
Police said the kidnappers have not established contact to the victim’s family.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/07/26/1350620/gunmen-abduct-businessmans-9-year-old-daughter
Sulu donates speed boat to PH Marines
From the Manila Standard Today (Jul 25): Sulu donates speed boat to PH Marines
JOLO, Sulu—Governor Abdusakur Tan Jr. donated recently to the Second Marine Brigade a 600-horse power Malaysian-made speed boat to boost the partnership between the local government and the armed forces.
Brig. Gen. Martin Pinto, brigade commanding general, received the 32-foot watercraft joined by Brig Gen. Orlando de Leon, deputy chief of the Zamboanga City-based Western Mindanao Command and other local executives.
Pinto also thanked Tan’s father, Vice Gov. Abdusakur Tan Sr., for helping strengthen “maritime law enforcement operations (in) the Tausug-populated province and its various island municipalities”.
Along with De Leon, chief of Joint Task Force BASULTA (Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi), Pinto welcomed the donation in view of rampant illegal activities such as kidnapping, piracy and smuggling.
Local police and the marines are conducting operations amid renewed activities of the Abu Sayyaf Group.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/07/25/sulu-donates-speed-boat-to-ph-marines/
JOLO, Sulu—Governor Abdusakur Tan Jr. donated recently to the Second Marine Brigade a 600-horse power Malaysian-made speed boat to boost the partnership between the local government and the armed forces.
Brig. Gen. Martin Pinto, brigade commanding general, received the 32-foot watercraft joined by Brig Gen. Orlando de Leon, deputy chief of the Zamboanga City-based Western Mindanao Command and other local executives.
Pinto also thanked Tan’s father, Vice Gov. Abdusakur Tan Sr., for helping strengthen “maritime law enforcement operations (in) the Tausug-populated province and its various island municipalities”.
Along with De Leon, chief of Joint Task Force BASULTA (Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi), Pinto welcomed the donation in view of rampant illegal activities such as kidnapping, piracy and smuggling.
Local police and the marines are conducting operations amid renewed activities of the Abu Sayyaf Group.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/07/25/sulu-donates-speed-boat-to-ph-marines/
Ex-NPAs back Aquino vs impeachment
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 25): Ex-NPAs back Aquino vs impeachment
Partylist group declares House Visayan bloc support for Palace, DAP
A legislator representing a partylist group, composed mostly of former communist rebels, declared the support of the so-called Visayan bloc in the House
of Representatives to President Aquino and against a move to impeach him.
Rep. Stephen Paduano, who used the alias Carapali Lualhati as a national commander for the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB), said 34 congressmen from the Visayas would not support the impeachment complaints filed against Mr. Aquino for violating the Constitution through the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).
RPA-ABB members joined politics when it formed the Abang Lingkod party-list group, which Paduano now represents in the House.
Deals
The group had entered into a peace deal with the government under former President Joseph Estrada, a pardoned plunder convict, and finalized the deal under the Aquino administration. The deal gave the group funding for projects.
“With only more than one year left for Aquino in office, his impeachment would not benefit the Filipino people,” said Paduano.
He said while the Supreme Court ruled several acts committed through DAP as unconstitutional, it acknowledged that there was good faith in the constitutional violations.
“The money did not go to the pockets of Aquino,” said Paduano. “It (DAP) was not abused,” he said.
Bacolod Rep. Evelio Leonardia, another Aquino supporter who belongs to the Visayan bloc, said the impeachment complaint would not go far because most congressmen believe in the honesty, integrity and competence of the President.
Premature
He said it is also premature to talk about impeachment when the high court has yet to rule on Malacañang’s motion for reconsideration.
On Monday, antipork groups filed an impeachment complaint against Mr. Aquino, seeking his removal from office for culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust through DAP.
Two priests in Bacolod City expressed support for the impeachment complaint.
Msgr. Victorino Rivas, rector of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Shrine in Bacolod City, said he supports the impeachment proceeding if only to determine who is right or wrong.
“The impeachment should not really be to harass the President but to establish the truth about DAP, and so good faith in its implementation can be scrutinized,” Rivas said.
Respect for law
Fr. Felix Pasquin, rector of San Sebastian Cathedral, said he personally favors the move to impeach the President because the Constitution was violated.
The President is supposed to defend the Constitution, he said.
“The reproductive health controversy between the Church and the President is still fresh on our minds. If the President could not respect God’s law on the sacredness of life, can we expect him to respect the integrity of the separation of powers in a democratic government?” he said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623144/ex-npas-back-aquino-vs-impeachment
Partylist group declares House Visayan bloc support for Palace, DAP
A legislator representing a partylist group, composed mostly of former communist rebels, declared the support of the so-called Visayan bloc in the House
of Representatives to President Aquino and against a move to impeach him. Rep. Stephen Paduano, who used the alias Carapali Lualhati as a national commander for the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB), said 34 congressmen from the Visayas would not support the impeachment complaints filed against Mr. Aquino for violating the Constitution through the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).
RPA-ABB members joined politics when it formed the Abang Lingkod party-list group, which Paduano now represents in the House.
Deals
The group had entered into a peace deal
with the government under former President Joseph Estrada, a pardoned plunder convict, and finalized the deal under the Aquino administration. The deal gave the group funding for projects. “With only more than one year left for Aquino in office, his impeachment would not benefit the Filipino people,” said Paduano.
He said while the Supreme Court ruled several acts committed through DAP as unconstitutional, it acknowledged that there was good faith in the constitutional violations.
“The money
did not go to the pockets of Aquino,” said Paduano. “It (DAP) was not abused,” he said. 
of the President.Premature
He said it is also premature to talk about impeachment when the high court has yet to rule on Malacañang’s motion for reconsideration.
On Monday, antipork groups filed an impeachment complaint against Mr. Aquino, seeking his removal from office for culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust through DAP.
Two priests in Bacolod City expressed support for the impeachment complaint.
Msgr. Victorino Rivas, rector of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Shrine in Bacolod City, said he supports the impeachment proceeding if only to determine who is right or wrong.
“The impeachment should not really be to harass the President but to establish the truth about DAP, and so good faith in its implementation can be scrutinized,” Rivas said.
Respect for law
Fr. Felix Pasquin, rector of San Sebastian Cathedral, said he personally favors the move to impeach the President because the Constitution was violated.
The President is supposed to defend the Constitution, he said.
“The reproductive health controversy between the Church and the President is still fresh on our minds. If the President could not respect God’s law on the sacredness of life, can we expect him to respect the integrity of the separation of powers in a democratic government
?” he said.http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623144/ex-npas-back-aquino-vs-impeachment
Palace defends Edca amid new impeachment case
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 24): Palace defends Edca amid new impeachment case
US and Philippine marines storm the beach to simulate a raid during the joint U.S.-Philippines military exercise dubbed Balikatan 2014 Friday, May 9, 2014 at the Naval Training Exercise Command, a former US naval base, and facing the South China Sea at San Antonio township, Zambales province northwest of Manila, Philippines. AP FILE PHOTO
Amid refusing to discuss the latest impeachment complaint filed against President Benigno Aquino III, Malacañang on Thursday insisted that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) would help the country address new security threats in the region.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement that while they are aware that the third complaint questioned the constitutionality of the Edca, they will “leave it to Congress, as an independent and co-equal branch of government, to assess and decide on its merits.”
“We maintain that the Edca is a response to the evolving security challenges in the Asia-Pacific Region on account of disputes among countries with maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
Coloma reiterated that the Edca is based on the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) “which for more than 60 years, has served as the main platform for the strategic defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States.”
The Executive has in the past claimed that the Edca did not require Senate ratification because it merely builds on the MDT.
However, the latest impeachment complaint endorsed by Gabriela Representative Emmi De Jesus alleged that the Edca is “another violation of the Constitution” and a betrayal of public trust.
The complaint, signed by 20 individuals led by Makabayan Coalition President Satur Ocampo, said the Edca violated the Constitutional prohibition on foreign military bases.
“The Edca is essentially a basing agreement. No amount of euphemism by President Aquino, his representatives and other officials will cure the constitutional violation caused by this agreement,” the prefatory statement said.
It said the agreement undermines Philippine sovereignty.
Other signatories of the complaint were:
1. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Chairperson Maria Carolina P. Araullo
2. Atty. Evalyn G. Ursua
3. Samahan ng mga Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon (SELDA) Chairperson Amaryllis Hilao Enriquez
4. Teodoro A. Casiño
5. GABRIELA Vice-Chairperson Gertrudes R. Libang
6. Center for Women’s Resources (CWR) Executive Director Mary Joan Gua
7. Salinlahi Alliance for Children’s Concerns Secretary General Kharlo Felipe C. Manano
8. Prof. Phoebe Zoe Maria U.Sanchez
9. Lila Pilipina Lola’s Center, Inc.President/Executive Director Rechilda A. Extremadura
10. Lila Pilipina Co-President Virginia V. Villarama
11. Lila Pilipina Vice-President Narcisa A. Adriatico
12. Lila Pilipina Treasurer Felicidad B. De Los Reyes
13. Lila Pilipina Auditor Estelita B. Dy
14. Luningning V. Lituañas of Lila Pilipina
15. BAYAN– Central Luzon (BAYAN-CL) Chairperson Roman L. Polintan; Suara Bangsamoro President Amirah Ali Lidasan
16. Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment Convenor Clemente Guevarra Bautista, Jr
17. Karapatan Alliance for the Advancement of People’s Rights Secretary-General Cristina Palabay
18. PISTON President George F. San Mateo
19. Alliance of Health Workers (AHW)President Jossel I. Ebesate
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623093/palace-defends-edca-amid-new-impeachment-case
US and Philippine marines storm the beach to simulate a raid during the joint U.S.-Philippines military exercise dubbed Balikatan 2014 Friday, May 9, 2014 at the Naval Training Exercise Command, a former US naval base, and facing the South China Sea at San Antonio township, Zambales province northwest of Manila, Philippines. AP FILE PHOTO
Amid refusing to discuss the latest impeachment complaint filed against President Benigno Aquino III, Malacañang on Thursday insisted that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) would help the country address new security threats
in the region. Communications
Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement that while they are aware that the third complaint questioned the constitutionality of the Edca, they will “leave it to Congress, as an independent and co-equal branch of government, to assess and decide on its merits.” “We maintain that the Edca is a response to the evolving security
challenges in the Asia-Pacific Region on account of disputes among countries with maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea,” he added. Coloma reiterated that the Edca is based on the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) “which for more than 60 years, has served as the main platform for the strategic defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States.”
The Executive
has in the past claimed that the Edca did not require Senate ratification because it merely builds on the MDT. However, the latest impeachment complaint endorsed by Gabriela Representative Emmi De Jesus alleged that the Edca is “another violation of the Constitution” and a betrayal of public trust.
The complaint, signed by 20 individuals led by Makabayan Coalition President Satur Ocampo, said the Edca violated the Constitutional prohibition on foreign military bases.
“The Edca is essentially a basing agreement. No amount of euphemism by President Aquino, his representatives and other officials will cure the constitutional violation caused by this agreement,” the prefatory statement said.
It said the agreement undermines Philippine sovereignty.
Other signatories of the complaint were:
1. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Chairperson Maria Carolina P. Araullo
2. Atty. Evalyn G. Ursua
3. Samahan ng mga Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon (SELDA) Chairperson Amaryllis Hilao Enriquez
4. Teodoro A. Casiño
5. GABRIELA Vice-Chairperson Gertrudes R. Libang
6. Center for Women’s Resources
(CWR) Executive Director Mary Joan Gua 7. Salinlahi Alliance for Children’s Concerns Secretary General Kharlo Felipe C. Manano
8. Prof. Phoebe Zoe Maria U.Sanchez
9. Lila Pilipina Lola’s Center, Inc.President/Executive Director Rechilda A. Extremadura
10. Lila Pilipina Co-President Virginia V. Villarama
11. Lila Pilipina Vice-President Narcisa A. Adriatico
12. Lila Pilipina Treasurer Felicidad B. De Los Reyes
13. Lila Pilipina Auditor Estelita B. Dy
14. Luningning V. Lituañas of Lila Pilipina
15. BAYAN– Central Luzon (BAYAN-CL) Chairperson Roman L. Polintan; Suara Bangsamoro President Amirah Ali Lidasan
16. Kalikasan People’s Network
for the Environment Convenor Clemente Guevarra Bautista, Jr 17. Karapatan Alliance for the Advancement of People’s Rights Secretary-General Cristina Palabay
18. PISTON President George F. San Mateo
19. Alliance of Health Workers (AHW)President Jossel I. Ebesate
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623093/palace-defends-edca-amid-new-impeachment-case
AFP chief Catapang tells of cheating death on ‘flying coffin’
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 25): AFP chief Catapang tells of cheating death on ‘flying coffin’
New Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.: Life-and-death tale. FILE PHOTO
On a tour of the various commands, new Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. showed his lighter side when he regaled members of the military branch, known for being “all air and no force” and for its “flying coffins,” with his own life-and-death tale.
Addressing about 950 enlisted and civilian employees of the Philippine Air Force at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Catapang first told them how proud he was of them.
He then told them about the time he was an officer in the 5th Infantry Division of the Northern Luzon Command when he hopped on a military helicopter to get to his base in Nueva Vizcaya.
“It happened on Dec. 6, 2005. I will never forget it. I even offer a Mass every Dec. 6,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
They were up in the air when they were “overwhelmed by the clouds and the rotor went ‘pak.’ It sounded like the engine had just stopped,” he said.
Heavy mist and clouds surrounded them. “Parang nasa langit na kami (It was like being in heaven),” he said.
He said he got scared thinking their helicopter might collide with another chopper.
“Yung sa amin luma na, pagtinignan mo kita na ang bituka (Our chopper was old, its innards were showing),” he said, meaning its exposed tangled wiring.
He said the pilots suddenly flew the chopper on its side, forcing all the passengers to face upward.
“I told them let’s offer a minute of prayer,” he said.
The chopper then plummeted.
Catapang said it was able to land but not after emitting black smoke that scared all the people on board.
“And guess where we landed? At the Bagabag airport. The name of the airport so aptly described what we experienced,” he said.
He said the funny thing was, he later learned that one of the female pilots was named “Captain Mabalo,” which sounded like the word for “widow.”
Catapang said improvements at the PAF were underway. “We can’t defend the people and protect the state by just using our hands. We have new wars to face and there are global challenges,” he said.
In an interview, PAF Commanding General Jeffrey Delgado said new equipment were expected to come in next year.
He said that in January, the PAF could expect two of the eight new helicopters it had acquired from Italian firm AgustaWestland. The eight AW109 power attack helicopters cost P3.4 billion.
Early this year, the Department of National Defense signed P23.7 billion worth of contracts to acquire 12 FA-50 lead-in fighter jets from South Korea and eight Bell 412 helicopters from Canada.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623238/afp-chief-catapang-tells-of-cheating-death-on-flying-coffin
New Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.: Life-and-death tale. FILE PHOTO
On a tour of the various commands, new Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. showed his lighter side when he regaled members of the military branch, known for being “all air and no force” and for its “flying coffins,” with his own life-and-death tale.
Addressing about 950 enlisted and civilian employees of the Philippine Air Force at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Catapang first told them how proud he was of them.
He then told them about the time he was an officer in the 5th Infantry Division of the Northern Luzon Command when he hopped on a military helicopter to get to his base in Nueva Vizcaya.
“It happened on Dec. 6, 2005. I will never forget it. I even offer a Mass every Dec. 6,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
They were up in the air when they were “overwhelmed by the clouds and the rotor went ‘pak.’ It sounded like the engine had just stopped,” he said.
Heavy mist and clouds surrounded them. “Parang nasa langit na kami (It was like being in heaven),” he said.
He said he got scared thinking their helicopter might collide with another chopper.
“Yung sa amin luma na, pagtinignan mo kita na ang bituka (Our chopper was old, its innards were showing),” he said, meaning its exposed tangled wiring.
He said the pilots suddenly flew the chopper on its side, forcing all the passengers to face upward.
“I told them let’s offer a minute of prayer,” he said.
The chopper then plummeted.
Catapang said it was able to land but not after emitting black smoke that scared all the people on board.
“And guess where we landed? At the Bagabag airport. The name of the airport so aptly described what we experienced,” he said.
He said the funny thing was, he later learned that one of the female pilots was named “Captain Mabalo,” which sounded like the word for “widow.”
Catapang said improvements at the PAF were underway. “We can’t defend the people and protect the state by just using our hands. We have new wars to face and there are global challenges,” he said.
In an interview, PAF Commanding General Jeffrey Delgado said new equipment were expected to come in next year.
He said that in January, the PAF could expect two of the eight new helicopters it had acquired from Italian firm AgustaWestland. The eight AW109 power attack helicopters cost P3.4 billion.
Early this year, the Department of National Defense signed P23.7 billion worth of contracts to acquire 12 FA-50 lead-in fighter jets from South Korea and eight Bell 412 helicopters from Canada.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/623238/afp-chief-catapang-tells-of-cheating-death-on-flying-coffin
PAMANA-ARMM MNLF beneficiaries participate in project planning
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 25): PAMANA-ARMM MNLF beneficiaries participate in project planning
Around 21 members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) from seven barangays in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur participated in the formulation of management plans for the implementation of livelihood programs under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program.
The participants also identified and listed down their counterpart activities as preparation for the delivery of their approved project items.
The two-day Orientation-Workshop on the Implementation of PAMANA- ARMM Livelihood Programs for the MNLF Communities held July 15 to 16, 2014 in Cotabato City was facilitated by the Office of the ARMM Regional Governor through the PAMANA Management Office (PMO).
The activity, conducted through a participatory process, was aimed at coming up with a project operation and management plan for each target MNLF community.
MNLF Commander Abukhair A. Amirol, one of the MNLF senior leaders, expressed his satisfaction on the activity. “The orientation-workshop is more than 100 percent successful because we became more aware on the program as we, the beneficiaries, are the one planning for the sustainability of our livelihood project,” he said.
Another objective of the activity was for the beneficiaries to acquire practical understanding on the different production technologies.
Hence, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries-(DAF) in the region, the MNLF members learned the practical technologies on corn production, upland and lowland rice production, vegetables, perennial crops, and livestock.
Hadja Jalica D. Mangacop, High- Valued Crop Development (HVCD) Program Coordinator of DAF-ARMM thanked the PMO for involving them in the activity.
“I am very grateful to Engr. Dong K. Anayatin who personally visited my office and asked for resource persons. I am glad that we are involved here because we want to make this project more sustainable,” she said.
The HVCD Program Coordinator also congratulated the PMO staff for the efficiency in conducting the workshop. “This is my first time to see young individuals in ARMM facilitating workshop like this. We need this kind of people”, she added.
DAF- ARMM PAMANA Focal Person Engr. Guiomla Satol also challenged the MNLF Beneficiaries. He emphasized that the entrepreneurial and management skills are essential flavours of successful and farm sustainable farming activity. “Farming is a business, which means it should be continuously cycling to provide income and employment, thus economic development of the community”, he explained.
Meanwhile, Engr. Dong K. Anayatin, Program Manager of the PAMANA Management Office who is also the Assistant Regional Secretary on Special Concerns, expressed his warm appreciations to the MNLF members for coming up with such great workshop outputs.
“I am amazed with what I have witnessed. You have done a very good output which is very essential for the development of your respective livelihood projects,” he said.
He further underscored that the success and failure of the projects are in the participants’ hands.
PAMANA in the ARMM is concentrated on providing development interventions and socio-economic packages to conflict-affected areas in the region. One of its components is PAMANA for MNLF Communities in support to the implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the MNLF ensuring security of the communities.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1521406252415
Around 21 members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) from seven barangays in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur participated in the formulation of management plans for the implementation of livelihood programs under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program.
The participants also identified and listed down their counterpart activities as preparation for the delivery of their approved project items.
The two-day Orientation-Workshop on the Implementation of PAMANA- ARMM Livelihood Programs for the MNLF Communities held July 15 to 16, 2014 in Cotabato City was facilitated by the Office of the ARMM Regional Governor through the PAMANA Management Office (PMO).
The activity, conducted through a participatory process, was aimed at coming up with a project operation and management plan for each target MNLF community.
MNLF Commander Abukhair A. Amirol, one of the MNLF senior leaders, expressed his satisfaction on the activity. “The orientation-workshop is more than 100 percent successful because we became more aware on the program as we, the beneficiaries, are the one planning for the sustainability of our livelihood project,” he said.
Another objective of the activity was for the beneficiaries to acquire practical understanding on the different production technologies.
Hence, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries-(DAF) in the region, the MNLF members learned the practical technologies on corn production, upland and lowland rice production, vegetables, perennial crops, and livestock.
Hadja Jalica D. Mangacop, High- Valued Crop Development (HVCD) Program Coordinator of DAF-ARMM thanked the PMO for involving them in the activity.
“I am very grateful to Engr. Dong K. Anayatin who personally visited my office and asked for resource persons. I am glad that we are involved here because we want to make this project more sustainable,” she said.
The HVCD Program Coordinator also congratulated the PMO staff for the efficiency in conducting the workshop. “This is my first time to see young individuals in ARMM facilitating workshop like this. We need this kind of people”, she added.
DAF- ARMM PAMANA Focal Person Engr. Guiomla Satol also challenged the MNLF Beneficiaries. He emphasized that the entrepreneurial and management skills are essential flavours of successful and farm sustainable farming activity. “Farming is a business, which means it should be continuously cycling to provide income and employment, thus economic development of the community”, he explained.
Meanwhile, Engr. Dong K. Anayatin, Program Manager of the PAMANA Management Office who is also the Assistant Regional Secretary on Special Concerns, expressed his warm appreciations to the MNLF members for coming up with such great workshop outputs.
“I am amazed with what I have witnessed. You have done a very good output which is very essential for the development of your respective livelihood projects,” he said.
He further underscored that the success and failure of the projects are in the participants’ hands.
PAMANA in the ARMM is concentrated on providing development interventions and socio-economic packages to conflict-affected areas in the region. One of its components is PAMANA for MNLF Communities in support to the implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the MNLF ensuring security of the communities.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1521406252415
CPLA head seeks Aquino help
From the Sun Star-Baguio (Jul 25): CPLA head seeks Aquino help
CORDILLERA Peoples Liberation Army chairman Arsenio Humiding is asking President Benigno Aquino III to intervene in the issues surrounding the organization and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
Humiding said the letter to the President was sent March 22 and was transmitted to the Palace after.
The chairman said the move is a last resort of sorts, with frustration on the implementation of the signed agreement for the transformation of the CPLA from an armed group to an economic force three years ago.
Humiding also asked for a dialog with the OPAPP to clear issues on the implantation of the agreement, which is moving slower than expected.
There are four components of the agreement between government and the CPLA: CPLA integration to the Armed Forces of the Philippines; community development projects, livelihood and “legacy documentation”.
All of which have been moving in a snail pace, as alleged by Humiding, brining unrest and confusion to the group.
Aquino signed with the CPLA an agreement for peace and issued Executive Order 49, enjoining government agencies to ensure the smooth implementation of the closure agreement between the CPLA and the Philippine government.
Humiding said the aim of the agreement was to transform the CPLA but with the component of the agreement far from being completed the organization is left with no closure.
"Papaano natin masasabing nag transform kung wala pang closure," he questioned.
Humiding said the letter to the President relayed the dismay with OPAPP and his hope that the agreement will still have meaning and true transformation.
The CPLA chair said he hopes to dialog with the President and the OPAPP to look at the status of the agreement and backtrack to original plans and see the present status today.
"We want an assessment and review of the Memorandum of Agreement," Humiding explained.
This he said will enable the group to move on.
The CPLA is awaiting response from the Palace and said in the meantime they are doing a private assessment and review to be conducted by the MOA signatories.
The results to which are yet to be disclosed as the process is ongoing.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2014/07/25/cpla-head-seeks-aquino-help-356054
CORDILLERA Peoples Liberation Army chairman Arsenio Humiding is asking President Benigno Aquino III to intervene in the issues surrounding the organization and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
Humiding said the letter to the President was sent March 22 and was transmitted to the Palace after.
The chairman said the move is a last resort of sorts, with frustration on the implementation of the signed agreement for the transformation of the CPLA from an armed group to an economic force three years ago.
Humiding also asked for a dialog with the OPAPP to clear issues on the implantation of the agreement, which is moving slower than expected.
There are four components of the agreement between government and the CPLA: CPLA integration to the Armed Forces of the Philippines; community development projects, livelihood and “legacy documentation”.
All of which have been moving in a snail pace, as alleged by Humiding, brining unrest and confusion to the group.
Aquino signed with the CPLA an agreement for peace and issued Executive Order 49, enjoining government agencies to ensure the smooth implementation of the closure agreement between the CPLA and the Philippine government.
Humiding said the aim of the agreement was to transform the CPLA but with the component of the agreement far from being completed the organization is left with no closure.
"Papaano natin masasabing nag transform kung wala pang closure," he questioned.
Humiding said the letter to the President relayed the dismay with OPAPP and his hope that the agreement will still have meaning and true transformation.
The CPLA chair said he hopes to dialog with the President and the OPAPP to look at the status of the agreement and backtrack to original plans and see the present status today.
"We want an assessment and review of the Memorandum of Agreement," Humiding explained.
This he said will enable the group to move on.
The CPLA is awaiting response from the Palace and said in the meantime they are doing a private assessment and review to be conducted by the MOA signatories.
The results to which are yet to be disclosed as the process is ongoing.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2014/07/25/cpla-head-seeks-aquino-help-356054
Political prisoners mount anti-SONA fast
From InterAksyon (Jul 25): Political prisoners mount anti-SONA fast
Activists stage a protest in front of Camp Crame to demand the release of political prisoners (photo from Karapatan)
Political prisoners began a fast Friday that will last until Monday, when President Benigno Aquino III delivers his fifth State of the Nation Address, the human rights organization Karapatan said.
Joining the fast are detainees in Camp Crame, who include Benito Tiamzon, alleged chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines, his wife Wilma Austria, and National Democratic Front consultants Eduardo Serrano and Renante Gamara; the National Bilibid Prison; and the Taguig City jail’s female dormitory at Camp Bagong Diwa, where Andrea Rosasl, daughter of the late rebel spokesman Gregorio “Ka Roger” Rosal, is incarcerated.
Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay said the fast was meant to underscore the political prisoners’ “disgust” with the Aquino administration.
The Taguig detainees are also expected to stage a march inside the jail compound to protest “Aquino's misuse of public funds through the creation of DAP (Disbursement Acceleration Program),” key provisions of which the Supreme Court has declared unconstitutional.
“Ang patuloy na pagdepensa at pagtatanggol ng papet na rehimeng US-Aquino sa kasuklam-suklam na paglustay ng salapi mula sa kabang yaman ng bansa, dapat itong panagutin sa pamamagitan ng pagsasampa ng kasong kriminal, pagpapatalsik sa pwesto at paglalagay sa loob ng piitan," (The continued defense of the US-Aquino regime of the disgusting plunder of public coffers should be held to account through criminal prosecution, ouster and jail),” a statement from the Taguig detainees said.
Also on Friday, Karapatan and the Samahan ng Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto staged protest actions at Camp Crame and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process to demand the release of political prisoners and the punishment of plunderers.
“The detention of activists and those perceived as ‘enemies of the state’ and their condition inside jails poses a stark contrast with how the BS Aquino treats the plunderers, especially the beneficiaries (and) defenders of the presidential pork. It is Aquino’s way of asserting his ‘ignorance’ in the said crime,” Palabay said in a statement.
At the OPAPP protest, Karapatan questioned the DAP funds given to the agency, P1.819 billion in 2011 and P248 million the next year, aside from its regular budget.
“Is the OPAPP deliberately evading public scrutiny by not including their proposed projects for proper allocation in the GAA? Did they find DAP as a way to evade scrutiny for the large amount of money that goes to OPAPP?” Palabay said.
She cited OPAPP’s acknowledgment that the 2012 funds were not included in the list of DAP-funded projects released by Malacanang.
At the same time, she said the huge outlay to the OPAPP, “supposedly spent for the peace initiatives of the government did not translate in concrete gains for the people. At best, only allies of the administration benefited from the DAP funds.”
Human rights activists stage a protest at the OPAPP (photo by Karapatan)
Palabay derided the government’s peace initiatives as “a business venture rather than a sincere effort to go into the root causes of the armed conflict and solve poverty, landlessness and joblessness.”
She also blasted the P264 million given to the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army and the P31 million to the Revolutionary Proletarian Army, former rebel groups that signed peace pacts with government but which the Karapatan official said had transformed into “paramilitary groups” accused of human rights abuses.
“The peace process should serve the interests of the majority of our people and just a few groups that sow terror,” she said. “Through DAP the money stolen from the people are used against them. With OPAPP, it becomes worse as paying lip service to the peace process only denies the people of a venue where their basic social and economic problems can be discussed and solved.”
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/91928/political-prisoners-mount-anti-sona-fast
Activists stage a protest in front of Camp Crame to demand the release of political prisoners (photo from Karapatan)
Political prisoners began a fast Friday that will last until Monday, when President Benigno Aquino III delivers his fifth State of the Nation Address, the human rights organization Karapatan said.
Joining the fast are detainees in Camp Crame, who include Benito Tiamzon, alleged chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines, his wife Wilma Austria, and National Democratic Front consultants Eduardo Serrano and Renante Gamara; the National Bilibid Prison; and the Taguig City jail’s female dormitory at Camp Bagong Diwa, where Andrea Rosasl, daughter of the late rebel spokesman Gregorio “Ka Roger” Rosal, is incarcerated.
Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay said the fast was meant to underscore the political prisoners’ “disgust” with the Aquino administration.
The Taguig detainees are also expected to stage a march inside the jail compound to protest “Aquino's misuse of public funds through the creation of DAP (Disbursement Acceleration Program),” key provisions of which the Supreme Court has declared unconstitutional.
“Ang patuloy na pagdepensa at pagtatanggol ng papet na rehimeng US-Aquino sa kasuklam-suklam na paglustay ng salapi mula sa kabang yaman ng bansa, dapat itong panagutin sa pamamagitan ng pagsasampa ng kasong kriminal, pagpapatalsik sa pwesto at paglalagay sa loob ng piitan," (The continued defense of the US-Aquino regime of the disgusting plunder of public coffers should be held to account through criminal prosecution, ouster and jail),” a statement from the Taguig detainees said.
Also on Friday, Karapatan and the Samahan ng Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto staged protest actions at Camp Crame and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process to demand the release of political prisoners and the punishment of plunderers.
“The detention of activists and those perceived as ‘enemies of the state’ and their condition inside jails poses a stark contrast with how the BS Aquino treats the plunderers, especially the beneficiaries (and) defenders of the presidential pork. It is Aquino’s way of asserting his ‘ignorance’ in the said crime,” Palabay said in a statement.
At the OPAPP protest, Karapatan questioned the DAP funds given to the agency, P1.819 billion in 2011 and P248 million the next year, aside from its regular budget.
“Is the OPAPP deliberately evading public scrutiny by not including their proposed projects for proper allocation in the GAA? Did they find DAP as a way to evade scrutiny for the large amount of money that goes to OPAPP?” Palabay said.
She cited OPAPP’s acknowledgment that the 2012 funds were not included in the list of DAP-funded projects released by Malacanang.
At the same time, she said the huge outlay to the OPAPP, “supposedly spent for the peace initiatives of the government did not translate in concrete gains for the people. At best, only allies of the administration benefited from the DAP funds.”
Human rights activists stage a protest at the OPAPP (photo by Karapatan)
Palabay derided the government’s peace initiatives as “a business venture rather than a sincere effort to go into the root causes of the armed conflict and solve poverty, landlessness and joblessness.”
She also blasted the P264 million given to the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army and the P31 million to the Revolutionary Proletarian Army, former rebel groups that signed peace pacts with government but which the Karapatan official said had transformed into “paramilitary groups” accused of human rights abuses.
“The peace process should serve the interests of the majority of our people and just a few groups that sow terror,” she said. “Through DAP the money stolen from the people are used against them. With OPAPP, it becomes worse as paying lip service to the peace process only denies the people of a venue where their basic social and economic problems can be discussed and solved.”
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/91928/political-prisoners-mount-anti-sona-fast
DESPITE CLASH: Army to continue ‘Bayanihan’ drive
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 25): DESPITE CLASH: Army to continue ‘Bayanihan’ drive
The military is returning to areas in the hinterlands of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, they had left 20 years ago, when they were believed to have been converted into a production base of the New People’s Army.
Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that denying this area from the NPA will have an impact on the logistical requirements of the “bandit group”.
Two members of the Army’s Bayanihan Team were killed recently in an encounter with about 30 NPA rebels in Sitio Madaha, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, that is among the venues of the “Marching for Peace, Serving the Countryside” activity of the Provincial Peace Integration and Development Unit in the fifth district of Negros Occidental.
Aying said the two Bayanihan Team members had been dispatched to the barangay for community development activities. Instead, they were killed, he added.
Its shows that they are anti-people and anti-development, he also said, apparently referring to the NPA.
Despite the killing of the two Army soldiers and the injuries to another, Lt. Col. Ariel Reyes, 47th Infantry Battalion commander, said they will continue their community development activities in the insurgency-affected barangays ofHimamaylan
City
“This will not prevent or deter us from helping local government units and agencies in the delivery of basic services to the people, especially those in the hinterlands who need help most,” Reyes said.
He added that the Bayanihan Teams of the 47IB will remain in the area, not only to protect the people from lawless elements, but primarily to help them uplift their lives, in tandem with the provincial government of Negros Occidental.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/July/25/topstory10.htm
The military is returning to areas in the hinterlands of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, they had left 20 years ago, when they were believed to have been converted into a production base of the New People’s Army.
Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that denying this area from the NPA will have an impact on the logistical requirements of the “bandit group”.
Two members of the Army’s Bayanihan Team were killed recently in an encounter with about 30 NPA rebels in Sitio Madaha, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, that is among the venues of the “Marching for Peace, Serving the Countryside” activity of the Provincial Peace Integration and Development Unit in the fifth district of Negros Occidental.
Aying said the two Bayanihan Team members had been dispatched to the barangay for community development activities. Instead, they were killed, he added.
Its shows that they are anti-people and anti-development, he also said, apparently referring to the NPA.
Despite the killing of the two Army soldiers and the injuries to another, Lt. Col. Ariel Reyes, 47th Infantry Battalion commander, said they will continue their community development activities in the insurgency-affected barangays of
“This will not prevent or deter us from helping local government units and agencies in the delivery of basic services to the people, especially those in the hinterlands who need help most,” Reyes said.
He added that the Bayanihan Teams of the 47IB will remain in the area, not only to protect the people from lawless elements, but primarily to help them uplift their lives, in tandem with the provincial government of Negros Occidental.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/July/25/topstory10.htm
Army seizes bombs in fresh clash with NPA
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jul 25): Army seizes bombs in fresh clash with NPA
TROOPS belonging to the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division recovered several improvised explosive devices and detonating materials after an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) members Wednesday in a hinterland in Barangay Mandug in Davao City’s Buhangin District.
Captain Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) public information officer, said the soldiers under the command of the 72nd Infantry Battalion recovered improvised explosive devices (IED), blasting caps, detonating wires, and assorted ammunition for M60 machinegun at Sitio Fatima in Mandug.
The troops also recovered a flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and NPA, 15 backpacks, rain coat, combat boots, civilian shoes, gas stove, assorted medicines, subversive documents, and a sack of rice during their clearing operation in the area.
Caber said the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) under the 69th Infantry Battalion encountered at least 20 rebels while they were conducting security operations in Mandug. The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes, he added.
“According to the civilians, there were wounded rebels brought by their companions during their escape towards a hinterland in Bunawan District of Davao City. As to the government troops, no casualty on our side were reported,” Caber said.
Major General Ariel Bernardo, outgoing commander of the 10th Infantry Division, in a forum at Waterfront Insular Hotel on Wednesday, said residents have nothing to worry since the clash took place close to 10 kilometers away from suburban in Mandug.
“In fact, kaunti na nga lang yan sila (NPA rebels) dito. Nagkataon lang na nagkasalubong sila -– hindi talaga maiwasan na magkaroon ng engkwentro. Ang importante ay walang napahamak na sibilyan, at ang ating peace efforts sa area of responsibility namin ay tuloy-tuloy,” Bernardo said.
Eastmincom commander Lieutenant General Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III, on the other hand, lauded the civilians in the area for their cooperation and coordination to the military about the NPA rebels who always extort goods or money from them.
“The CPP/NPA is continuously violating the human rights and the rule of law. If they’re really sincere about peace, why they continue manufacturing IEDs? Our security forces would not stop its operations against threat to peace and security such as these NPA bandits,” Cruz said.
Davao Police Regional Office (PRO) Chief Superintendent Wendy Garcia Rosario also said their unit will continue its efforts in addressing all forms of lawlessness in the region. He added that the police authorities here will always be on alert as several violent incidents have occurred lately in close proximity to urban areas.
“Part of the security measures implemented by the authorities here is to intensify monitoring on lawless armed group movement, to ensure a peaceful and secured city,” Rosario said, adding that the policemen and the military have already launched a pursuit operation against the rebels.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2014/07/25/army-seizes-bombs-fresh-clash-npa-355970
TROOPS belonging to the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division recovered several improvised explosive devices and detonating materials after an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) members Wednesday in a hinterland in Barangay Mandug in Davao City’s Buhangin District.
Captain Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) public information officer, said the soldiers under the command of the 72nd Infantry Battalion recovered improvised explosive devices (IED), blasting caps, detonating wires, and assorted ammunition for M60 machinegun at Sitio Fatima in Mandug.
The troops also recovered a flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and NPA, 15 backpacks, rain coat, combat boots, civilian shoes, gas stove, assorted medicines, subversive documents, and a sack of rice during their clearing operation in the area.
Caber said the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) under the 69th Infantry Battalion encountered at least 20 rebels while they were conducting security operations in Mandug. The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes, he added.
“According to the civilians, there were wounded rebels brought by their companions during their escape towards a hinterland in Bunawan District of Davao City. As to the government troops, no casualty on our side were reported,” Caber said.
Major General Ariel Bernardo, outgoing commander of the 10th Infantry Division, in a forum at Waterfront Insular Hotel on Wednesday, said residents have nothing to worry since the clash took place close to 10 kilometers away from suburban in Mandug.
“In fact, kaunti na nga lang yan sila (NPA rebels) dito. Nagkataon lang na nagkasalubong sila -– hindi talaga maiwasan na magkaroon ng engkwentro. Ang importante ay walang napahamak na sibilyan, at ang ating peace efforts sa area of responsibility namin ay tuloy-tuloy,” Bernardo said.
Eastmincom commander Lieutenant General Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III, on the other hand, lauded the civilians in the area for their cooperation and coordination to the military about the NPA rebels who always extort goods or money from them.
“The CPP/NPA is continuously violating the human rights and the rule of law. If they’re really sincere about peace, why they continue manufacturing IEDs? Our security forces would not stop its operations against threat to peace and security such as these NPA bandits,” Cruz said.
Davao Police Regional Office (PRO) Chief Superintendent Wendy Garcia Rosario also said their unit will continue its efforts in addressing all forms of lawlessness in the region. He added that the police authorities here will always be on alert as several violent incidents have occurred lately in close proximity to urban areas.
“Part of the security measures implemented by the authorities here is to intensify monitoring on lawless armed group movement, to ensure a peaceful and secured city,” Rosario said, adding that the policemen and the military have already launched a pursuit operation against the rebels.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2014/07/25/army-seizes-bombs-fresh-clash-npa-355970
MILF scores alleged govt ceasefire violations
From GMA News (Jul 26): MILF scores alleged govt ceasefire violations
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Saturday accused the government of violating a ceasefire in parts of Mindanao by making "uncoordinated movements" in two towns in Maguindanao.
In a post on its website Luwaran.com, the MILF accused the Army of making movements early morning in areas near MILF forces in Datu Unsay and Datu Saudi towns.
“This nature of uncoordinated movement can trigger untoward incident, and worst, fierce encounter between the government and MILF forces,” said Rasid Ladiasan, head of the MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) Secretariat.
“Clearly any movement which are not normal administrative functions like the case that transpired early morning today in that areas constitute ceasefire violations when the CCCHs were not coordinated. The government forces know this very well but unfortunately they acted in contravention,” he added.
He said the MILF CCCH plans to "file a strong protest on this incident as the proper way to address this situation.”
But in a text message to GMA News Online, Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesman for the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division, expressed doubts over Ladiasan's statement.
"I hope the statement of Mr. Ladiasan is sanctioned by the MILF CCCH. [Otherwise], it constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement if aired in public. [He is just] the head of the MILF CCCH Secretariat and not the chairman of the committee."
Also, he said that "any unilateral statement from either the Government of the Philippines or MILF, which is not sanctioned by their respective committee, is deemed violative of the provisions of the 1997 General Agreement on the Cessation of Hositilities, specifically on the Prohibited Provocative Act clause."
The MILF's accusation came two days before President Benigno Aquino III is to deliver his State of the Nation Address in Quezon City on July 28.
Citing reports from MILF commanders, Luwaran said "hundreds" of Philippine Army troops in full battle gear and backed with several tanks moved into Barangays Kitango, Tatapan, Kitapok, Maitem, and Pagatin.
It added the government and MILF CCCHs and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) were not aware of the "provocative uncoordinated" massive deployment and movement.
“We do not want any tension or confrontational situation to grip in between MILF and government forces otherwise we are being remiss with our responsibility,” Ladiasan said.
He appealed to the government to enhance coordination especially at this time, when the government and MILF are confronting major challenges on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
'Forced acceptance'
Earlier, the MILF claimed the government is forcing it to accept a BBL with "limitations" so it will comply with the 1987 Constitution.
It said the submission of the proposed BBL to Congress is "slowed down by many intervening obstructions," with the review by the Office of the President taking 61 days.
"Obviously, the government peace panel line is to let the MILF accept a version of the BBL that may be constitutional but will not solve the Bangsamoro Question. On the other hand, the MILF overall objective is 'to end tyranny, restore dignity and secure a bright and prosperous future for all in the Bangsamoro Homeland. The current government proposals will not restore dignity to a people who suffered tyranny and will not secure a peaceful and prosperous future,'” it said.
But in Malacañang, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government has to make sure any law is constitutional.
"Sayang naman kung ma-challenge ito sa Supreme Court at sabihing unconstitutional dahil hindi natin na execute ang due diligence," she said on government-run dzRB radio.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/372080/news/nation/milf-scores-alleged-govt-ceasefire-violations
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Saturday accused the government of violating a ceasefire in parts of Mindanao by making "uncoordinated movements" in two towns in Maguindanao.
In a post on its website Luwaran.com, the MILF accused the Army of making movements early morning in areas near MILF forces in Datu Unsay and Datu Saudi towns.
“This nature of uncoordinated movement can trigger untoward incident, and worst, fierce encounter between the government and MILF forces,” said Rasid Ladiasan, head of the MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) Secretariat.
“Clearly any movement which are not normal administrative functions like the case that transpired early morning today in that areas constitute ceasefire violations when the CCCHs were not coordinated. The government forces know this very well but unfortunately they acted in contravention,” he added.
He said the MILF CCCH plans to "file a strong protest on this incident as the proper way to address this situation.”
But in a text message to GMA News Online, Col. Dickson Hermoso, spokesman for the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division, expressed doubts over Ladiasan's statement.
"I hope the statement of Mr. Ladiasan is sanctioned by the MILF CCCH. [Otherwise], it constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement if aired in public. [He is just] the head of the MILF CCCH Secretariat and not the chairman of the committee."
Also, he said that "any unilateral statement from either the Government of the Philippines or MILF, which is not sanctioned by their respective committee, is deemed violative of the provisions of the 1997 General Agreement on the Cessation of Hositilities, specifically on the Prohibited Provocative Act clause."
The MILF's accusation came two days before President Benigno Aquino III is to deliver his State of the Nation Address in Quezon City on July 28.
Citing reports from MILF commanders, Luwaran said "hundreds" of Philippine Army troops in full battle gear and backed with several tanks moved into Barangays Kitango, Tatapan, Kitapok, Maitem, and Pagatin.
It added the government and MILF CCCHs and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) were not aware of the "provocative uncoordinated" massive deployment and movement.
“We do not want any tension or confrontational situation to grip in between MILF and government forces otherwise we are being remiss with our responsibility,” Ladiasan said.
He appealed to the government to enhance coordination especially at this time, when the government and MILF are confronting major challenges on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
'Forced acceptance'
Earlier, the MILF claimed the government is forcing it to accept a BBL with "limitations" so it will comply with the 1987 Constitution.
It said the submission of the proposed BBL to Congress is "slowed down by many intervening obstructions," with the review by the Office of the President taking 61 days.
"Obviously, the government peace panel line is to let the MILF accept a version of the BBL that may be constitutional but will not solve the Bangsamoro Question. On the other hand, the MILF overall objective is 'to end tyranny, restore dignity and secure a bright and prosperous future for all in the Bangsamoro Homeland. The current government proposals will not restore dignity to a people who suffered tyranny and will not secure a peaceful and prosperous future,'” it said.
But in Malacañang, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government has to make sure any law is constitutional.
"Sayang naman kung ma-challenge ito sa Supreme Court at sabihing unconstitutional dahil hindi natin na execute ang due diligence," she said on government-run dzRB radio.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/372080/news/nation/milf-scores-alleged-govt-ceasefire-violations
No US troops in PH as SC reviews defense pact
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 25): No US troops in PH as SC reviews defense pact
Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia. INQUIRER.net/Matikas Santos
No troops from the United States will be coming to the Philippines yet as the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) is being questioned before the Supreme Court.
“Until we put it into force then we can not really see any [troop] movement. The lawyers will have to look at what can be done in the meantime,” Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia said in an interview with reporters Friday.
“We cannot proceed with the implementation of the agreement because it is being questioned and we don’t want to give the impression that we are not respecting the fact that there is a case filed. We’d like to be able to build up our military capacity and minimum credible defense posture as early as possible right? For our own self defense interests,” he said.
The EDCA was signed by the Philippines and US last April ahead of US President Barack Obama’s two-day visit in Manila. The agreement seeks to increase the amount of US troops that can come into the country on a rotational basis.
There have been at least three petitions asking the high tribunal to declare the EDCA as unconstitutional for violating the Philippine constitution’s provisions on national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
When asked whether the Supreme Court petitions will slow down the implementation of the EDCA, Cuisia said: “It has some impact but hopefully for not too long.”
“We hope to benefit from this agreement particularly the modernization of the AFP. We asked the US to help us but they can not move much until we resolve those issues. We hope that it will not take too long,” he said. http://globalnation.inquirer.net/108442/no-us-troops-in-ph-as-sc-reviews-defense-pact
Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia. INQUIRER.net/Matikas Santos
No troops from the United States will be coming to the Philippines yet as the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) is being questioned before the Supreme Court.
“Until we put it into force then we can not really see any [troop] movement. The lawyers will have to look at what can be done in the meantime,” Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia said in an interview with reporters Friday.
“We cannot proceed with the implementation of the agreement because it is being questioned and we don’t want to give the impression that we are not respecting the fact that there is a case filed. We’d like to be able to build up our military capacity and minimum credible defense posture as early as possible right? For our own self defense interests,” he said.
The EDCA was signed by the Philippines and US last April ahead of US President Barack Obama’s two-day visit in Manila. The agreement seeks to increase the amount of US troops that can come into the country on a rotational basis.
There have been at least three petitions asking the high tribunal to declare the EDCA as unconstitutional for violating the Philippine constitution’s provisions on national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
When asked whether the Supreme Court petitions will slow down the implementation of the EDCA, Cuisia said: “It has some impact but hopefully for not too long.”
“We hope to benefit from this agreement particularly the modernization of the AFP. We asked the US to help us but they can not move much until we resolve those issues. We hope that it will not take too long,” he said. http://globalnation.inquirer.net/108442/no-us-troops-in-ph-as-sc-reviews-defense-pact
Rules-based approach to sea row
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 26): Rules-based approach to sea row
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) secretary Albert del Rosario AP FILE PHOTO
Amid the worsening row in the South China Sea, the Philippines has called on the European Union and members of the Association of South East Asian Nation (Asean) to support its efforts to promote a rules-based approach in the settlement of maritime disputes in the region.
In a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Secretary Albert Del Rosario spoke before foreign ministers at the 20th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting in Brussels and said the submission by the Philippines of its claim to arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) is a manifestation of its commitment toward peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.
“Lady Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, echoed Secretary Del Rosario’s call and affirmed EU’s support for the right of claimants to seek resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including through legal dispute settlement mechanisms,” the DFA said.
No unilateral action
The DFA said Ashton had urged against unilateral attempts by any party to assert its claims through the use of intimidation, coercion or force.
The foreign ministers present at the meeting endorsed the call of Ashton and enjoined parties to seriously implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
China and the Philippines are caught in a territorial dispute over areas in the South China Sea which the former claims in its entirety including portions of the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Tensions have escalated in the region after a standoff in April 2012 between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the Scarborough Shoal.
New tensions
In January, new tensions arose after China’s Hainan province began implementing a new fisheries regulation banning foreign ships from conducting fishing or survey activities in South China Sea without permission from Chinese regional authorities.
To settle the dispute, the Philippines filed a case before the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration against China and was supposed to submit its written arguments last March. But China refused to participate in the arbitration proceedings.
The 20th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting last week drew the participation of foreign ministers from 10 Asean and 28 EU member states.
Meanwhile, the European Union has announced that Ashton would be in a Manila for a two-day visit next week to boost trade relations between the country and the 28 EU member states and discuss the escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
Ashton will be in town from July 28 to 29, EU ambassador to the Philippines Guy Ledoux said during his recent visit to the Inquirer.
He said this would the first time a top EU official will visit the country as the strong politico-economic union in Europe begins to take a keen interest in investing more in the country.
Here for Sona
The arrival of Ashton, also the vice president of the European Commission, will coincide with President Aquino’s scheduled fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona).
On July 29, Ashton will make a courtesy call on President Aquino and meet Foreign Secretary Del Rosario for an exchange of views on EU-Philippines relations.
“She intends to complete her visit to each country in the Asean,” Ledoux said in a recent meeting with Inquirer publisher Raul Pangalangan and chair Marixi R. Prieto.
Ashton earlier visited Thailand and Burma (Myanmar).
“The economy is booming here. We are very interested in the exports of the Philippines to Europe which last year rose by 20 percent,” Ledoux said.
One of the things she plans to discuss with Philippine officials is the new preferential trading scheme which would allow exports of the Philippines to Europe to have a lesser tariff.
European position
Ledoux said the scheme, which might take effect soon once approved by the European parliament, would benefit sectors exporting textiles and fish products like tuna.
The role and position of the European Union in the settlement of the disputes in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) will likewise be discussed in the meeting with Del Rosario.
While the European Union has never taken sides in the arbitration case filed by the Philippines against China’s sweeping territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, it expressed willingness to help in the settlement of the maritime dispute.
“But we are open to share our European experience on maritime issues,” he said, citing the example of the delineation of the Scotland and Norway’s maritime borders.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/108453/rules-based-approach-to-sea-row
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) secretary Albert del Rosario AP FILE PHOTO
Amid the worsening row in the South China Sea, the Philippines has called on the European Union and members of the Association of South East Asian Nation (Asean) to support its efforts to promote a rules-based approach in the settlement of maritime disputes in the region.
In a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Secretary Albert Del Rosario spoke before foreign ministers at the 20th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting in Brussels and said the submission by the Philippines of its claim to arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) is a manifestation of its commitment toward peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.
“Lady Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, echoed Secretary Del Rosario’s call and affirmed EU’s support for the right of claimants to seek resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including through legal dispute settlement mechanisms,” the DFA said.
No unilateral action
The DFA said Ashton had urged against unilateral attempts by any party to assert its claims through the use of intimidation, coercion or force.
The foreign ministers present at the meeting endorsed the call of Ashton and enjoined parties to seriously implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
China and the Philippines are caught in a territorial dispute over areas in the South China Sea which the former claims in its entirety including portions of the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Tensions have escalated in the region after a standoff in April 2012 between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the Scarborough Shoal.
New tensions
In January, new tensions arose after China’s Hainan province began implementing a new fisheries regulation banning foreign ships from conducting fishing or survey activities in South China Sea without permission from Chinese regional authorities.
To settle the dispute, the Philippines filed a case before the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration against China and was supposed to submit its written arguments last March. But China refused to participate in the arbitration proceedings.
The 20th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting last week drew the participation of foreign ministers from 10 Asean and 28 EU member states.
Meanwhile, the European Union has announced that Ashton would be in a Manila for a two-day visit next week to boost trade relations between the country and the 28 EU member states and discuss the escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
Ashton will be in town from July 28 to 29, EU ambassador to the Philippines Guy Ledoux said during his recent visit to the Inquirer.
He said this would the first time a top EU official will visit the country as the strong politico-economic union in Europe begins to take a keen interest in investing more in the country.
Here for Sona
The arrival of Ashton, also the vice president of the European Commission, will coincide with President Aquino’s scheduled fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona).
On July 29, Ashton will make a courtesy call on President Aquino and meet Foreign Secretary Del Rosario for an exchange of views on EU-Philippines relations.
“She intends to complete her visit to each country in the Asean,” Ledoux said in a recent meeting with Inquirer publisher Raul Pangalangan and chair Marixi R. Prieto.
Ashton earlier visited Thailand and Burma (Myanmar).
“The economy is booming here. We are very interested in the exports of the Philippines to Europe which last year rose by 20 percent,” Ledoux said.
One of the things she plans to discuss with Philippine officials is the new preferential trading scheme which would allow exports of the Philippines to Europe to have a lesser tariff.
European position
Ledoux said the scheme, which might take effect soon once approved by the European parliament, would benefit sectors exporting textiles and fish products like tuna.
The role and position of the European Union in the settlement of the disputes in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) will likewise be discussed in the meeting with Del Rosario.
While the European Union has never taken sides in the arbitration case filed by the Philippines against China’s sweeping territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, it expressed willingness to help in the settlement of the maritime dispute.
“But we are open to share our European experience on maritime issues,” he said, citing the example of the delineation of the Scotland and Norway’s maritime borders.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/108453/rules-based-approach-to-sea-row
MILF still unhappy with status of draft law
From Rappler (Jul 26): MILF still unhappy with status of draft law
The government and MILF panels are set to meet again before Monday, the President's scheduled State of the Nation Address, to iron out differences
What's the status of the draft law creating a new political entity inMindanao ?
BEYOND USE. The decommissioning of MILF firearms and troops depend on the completion of corresponding political commitments. File photo by Rappler
Substantial issues
REMEMBERING PEACE. Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman; Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak; Philippine president Benigno Aquino III and Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process hold the documents following the signing of a final peace agreement between the Philippine government and the muslim rebel group inside the Malacanang presidential palace in Manila, the Philippines, March 27, 2014. Dennis Sabangan/ EPA
Limit potential challenges
http://www.rappler.com/nation/64359-milf-bangsamoro-basic-law
The government and MILF panels are set to meet again before Monday, the President's scheduled State of the Nation Address, to iron out differences
What's the status of the draft law creating a new political entity in
On Thursday, July
24, President Benigno Aquino III met with members of the Bangsamoro Transition
Commission (BTC) in a bid to bridge the gap between Malacañang's proposed revisions
and the original version of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which the
commission drafted.
In the meeting,
Aquino called on members of the BTC to approach the drafting of the proposed
law "with an open mind," urging both sides to put themselves "in
each other's shoes," a media release from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP)
said.
"I want to
be able to push this (Bangsamoro Basic Law) with conviction," Aquino said.
The Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF) has earlier accused Malacañang of diluting the draft
that the BTC submitted for the President's review.
The drafting of
the law is the second phase of the historic peace agreement signed
4 months ago by the Philippine government and the MILF, aimed at ending more
than 4 decades of conflict in Muslim provinces in Mindanao .
At stake is the future of a region torn by conflict but with so much potential
for economic growth.
The heart of the
agreement is the creation of an autonomous region – but this hinges on a law
that Congress will pass and the results of a plebiscite that will come after.
In his 2013 State
of the Nation Address (SONA) last year, President Aquino expressed the hope that
the new law would be passed by the end of 2014.
But current
problems in the process have made this timetable appear difficult to achieve.
Iqbal
absent
In the Thursday
meeting were Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita
Deles, the government peace panel led by chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer
and select cabinet members.
A total of 12 out
of the 14 current members of the BTC attended the meeting. One of the
commissioners, Johaira Wahab, has already resigned from the post to assume her
position in the Department of Foreign Affairs.
However, the
commission's chairperson Mohagher Iqbal, who also serves as the chief
negotiator of the MILF, was not present at the meeting with Aquino.
Iqbal told
Rappler he had to attend an "important meeting" with the MILF central
committee at Camp Darapanan regarding crucial decision points that had to be
addressed regarding ongoing discussions on the BBL.
"It's not my
choice but it was coincidental that the MILF also has a meeting. It was
coincidental, a confluence of two situations. The consultation with the MILF
leadership was very important, so, I was there," Iqbal said.
While both sides
admit the chances are slim that a "mutually acceptable" draft law can
be submitted to Congress right after Aquino's 2014 SONA on Monday, July 28 –
the target deadline – neither side is turning away from the process.
The panels are
set to meet again before the SONA to try to arrive at a compromise, OPAPP said.
Diluted
draft?
The 15-member
BTC, created through Executive Order 120, was tasked to create the initial draft
of the proposed law that will serve as the basis for the Bangsamoro political
entity replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The MILF
nominated 8 of the BTC members, including the chairperson, while the government
nominated the rest.
After the
commission submitted its draft to the President, Iqbal accused Malacañang of
"heavily" diluting it and in the process producing a proposed law
that he said was worse than the law governing the ARMM.
Under the final
peace agreement, both sides agreed to submit the BTC draft of the BBL to
Malacañang for review before it is submitted to Congress and certified as
urgent by the President.
The difficulties
at the present stage of the process could be traced to an issue that has long
hounded both sides.
Since it started
negotiating for a political settlement with the government, the MILF has long
believed that the Constitution needs to be amended to ensure genuine autonomy
in Mindanao . The Aquino administration,
meanwhile, believes the final peace agreement can be implemented within the
"flexibilities" of the Constitution.
Flexibility
and the Constitution
In an interview
with Rappler on Friday, July 25, Iqbal said the government is too conservative
in interpreting the Philippine Constitution in relation to the draft law. This,
he said, was a departure from the statements made by the government panel
throughout the negotiations that the signed agreements can be implemented
within the "flexibilities" of the Constitution.
"I don't
know what's on their mind but we did not see the flexibility promised to
us," Iqbal said without elaborating.
The envisioned
Bangsamoro political entity is designed to have greater political powers and
wider fiscal autonomy than the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
It will have a
parliamentary form of government with at least 50 members elected by the
people. The elected members, will, in turn, elect a chief minister among
themselves. The exact composition of the form of government is expected to be
defined in the BBL.
The draft
Bangsamoro law will also detail how the block grants for the Bangsamoro will be
computed. This is a mechanism that would enable the proposed government to get
automatic appropriations without having the need to get the approval of
Congress every year – a potentially contentious provision since the Constitution
states that the power of the purse is exclusive to Congress.
Also potentially
contentious is the issue on the legal definition of the term Bangsamoro, which,
in the signed agreements, refers to both the place or territory, as well as the
identity of the people.
It also remains
to be seen how the BBL would detail the composition of the police force for the
Bangsamoro, as well as its relationship with the national police force.
Iqbal refrained
from qualifying the current state of negotiations as a deadlock. He said the
process is just "on hold."
"It's still
moving forward. It's just a simple halt in the journey," Iqbal said.
After the Kuala Lumpur "workshop" on July 7 to July 11 and
the Manila meeting from July 18 to July 21, Iqbal said they
managed to finish 30% of the issues but substantial issues still remained
unresolved.
"But I can't
estimate if this will not change because I observed that everything seems to be
very tentative. We already finished the issues but then it can still be
changed," Iqbal said. "But so far, out of our meetings from Kuala Lumpur to Manila
BEYOND USE. The decommissioning of MILF firearms and troops depend on the completion of corresponding political commitments. File photo by Rappler
Substantial issues
In a statement published on Luwaran, MILF's official website, on
Friday, the MILF made clear its position on the issue:
The
MILF said: "All
those issues that are settled in the FAB [Framework Agreement on the
Bangsamoro] and its Annexes will not be subject for renegotiation" and
"settled language in the FAB and its Annexes will not be subject for
renegotiation."
It added: "In
view of the wide disparity between the two positions of the two parties,
finding an agreed version takes some time," the MILF said.
Iqbal said the
BTC draft was "faithful to the letter and spirit" of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed in
October 2012 and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed in March
2014.
Before the FAB
was signed, one of the last items that the panel had to resolve was on the
matter of the police force. The MILF wanted a unique police force system in the
Bangsamoro but the Constitution states that there should only be one police
body.
In the last few
hours of crucial talks over the deal on how revenues will be shared between the
Bangsamoro government and the national government, the panels were still
negotiating how the Bangsamoro could get a greater share in resources in
relation to the regalian doctrine in the Constitution, which states that all
public lands and natural resources belong to the State.
Asked
whether there might have been different interpretations of the content of the
final peace agreement, Iqbal said: "The devil is in the details. But I don't think the
interpretations are divergent. I can not imagine that but it appears that this
is what's happening."
"'Yung
kalabaw hindi naman manganganak ng kabayo yan e, di ba?" Iqbal said.
(A cow will not give birth to a horse, right?)
Iqbal maintains
that the BTC version of the BBL can be implemented within the flexibilities of
the Constitution.
"We (the
BTC) assured ourselves that there is nothing unconstitutional there. Otherwise,
we would have stricken it out. That's our view, that's our belief. That's why
when we finished it, we signed it. We believe there is nothing unconstitutional
there. It's just a matter of how do you flex, how do you stretch the
Constitution. The BTC is officially saying there is nothing unconstitutional
there.
4 layers
of engagement
During the
review, Iqbal said Malacañang was remiss in engaging the transition commission
in the process.
There was
supposed to have been 4 layers of engagement between the BTC and Malacañang,
according to Iqbal.
The first layer
would be through BTC committee chairs, the next one through other members, then
lawyers and special personalities, and finally, the highest would be between
the two principals - Aquino and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim.
Iqbal said only
the coordination between the principals happened. On June 24, Aquino sought a short meeting with Murad in Japan. At that
time, a well-placed source said Aquino had yet to read the contents of the
Basic Law.
When Iqbal
received a copy of the Malacañang revisions of the draft basic law on June 23
in Japan
One month before
the Malacañang revisions was finally turned over, Iqbal said Executive
Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr assured him that only 40% of the draft had been
touched and none of those covered substantial parts.
"So, I said,
if these are just peripheral issues, it would be easy. It turned out, the
substantial parts were also touched," Iqbal said.
The situation
could have been different had Malacañang engaged BTC sooner, according to Iqbal.
"Had the
engagement with the BTC occurred while they were trying to make the review, at
least lots of issues could have been resolved. But that did not happen,"
Iqbal said.
Iqbal refused to
comment on what role OPAPP and the government peace panel played in the review
process.
When Iqbal
returned to the Philippines Kuala Lumpur
In the
resolution, the BTC said:
"The BTC
strongly agrees to elevate the matter or process to the panels for
clarification, discussion and resolution of issues that may have been affected
by the revisions in the proposed BBL in the higher intterest of finding a
lasting peaceful solution to the conflict in Mindanao ."
"The BTC
stands firm in its position that the proposed BBL must be consistent with the
letter and spirit of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro."
Congress
For the
government, it is more ideal to resolve possible unconstitutional provisions at
this stage of the process before the proposed law is submitted to Congress.
After all,
Congress would be free to introduce further changes in the measure.
Asked for his
reaction, Iqbal said he would rather focus on the immediate challenge ahead.
"I do not
want to comment on the actions of Congress. That's another matter. What I'm
interested for is really the current engagement with the Office of the
President and with the government peace panel," Iqbal said.
He added: Kapag
tumatakbo ka at may hurdles, ang iniisip mo malagpasan yung unang hurdle.
'Yun ang focus, ang magtagumpay sa unang hurdle.
(If you are running
and there are hurdles, you are focused on surpassing the first hurdle. That's
your focus, to prevail on the first hurdle.)
REMEMBERING PEACE. Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman; Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak; Philippine president Benigno Aquino III and Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process hold the documents following the signing of a final peace agreement between the Philippine government and the muslim rebel group inside the Malacanang presidential palace in Manila, the Philippines, March 27, 2014. Dennis Sabangan/ EPA
Limit potential challenges
Aquino
told the BTC during their Thursday meeting: “Let’s approach this [drafting of the proposed
BBL] with an open mind, see if everything is consistent with the CAB
[Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro], and limit the potential
challenges.”
Iqbal said the
challenge to be open applies both ways.
"More on the
government because they are the ones who really diluted the BBL crafted by the
Bangsamoro Transition Commission. We are really practicing due dilligence.
That's why even during fasting time, we met the government side in Kuala Lumpur and in Manila
In terms of the
timeline, Iqbal said the MILF still hopes to install the Bangsamoro political
entity by 2016 before Aquino steps down from office.
"Kailangang
matapos (It has to be finished). There is no second option. Gagawin
natin lahat ng pwedeng magawa (We will do what needs to be done). We want
this process to be successful," Iqbal said.
Under the final
peace agreement signed after close to two decades of negotiations, the MILF
agreed to decommission their troops and firearms in specific timeframes in
parallel with the completion of corresponding political commitments, including
the passage of the BBL, the creation of a transitional body, and finally, the
creation of the Bangsamoro government.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/64359-milf-bangsamoro-basic-law
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