From the Manila Standard Today (Oct 14): Release of soldiers from NPA pressed
Church leaders in Northern Mindanao are pressing for the release of two soldiers captured by the New People’s Army last August in Bukidnon.
Iglesia Filipina Indepiendente Bishop Felixberto Calang over the weekend said an interfaith dialogue is seeking the release of Private First Class Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong after negotiations failed in September.
On record, they belong to the Community Organizing for Peace and Development of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion were captured by the NPA on August 22, 2014 in Barangay Buntongon in Impasug-ong.
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma expressed optimism over the religious sector’s moral support to get the soldiers back to their families soon.
Earlier, the NPA offered a 10-day truce and asked for a Suspension of Military Operation (SOMO), Suspension of Police Operation (SOPO) as conditions to set the troppers free.
Calang and Ledesma have sought the assistance of Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, who attended the launching of the Ugnayan ng Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS).
Last October 11, he signed an agreement supporting UBAS along with lawyer Edmund Abesamis, president of Liga ng mga Barangay and City Mayor Oscar Moreno.
Calang said the safe conduct pass for the soldiers must be worked out by the government panel and the captors.
Before the failed release in September, the NPA cited a directive from the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), waiving investigation and trial of the captives.
“As a gesture of goodwill and sincerity from the revolutionary movement in its hope for the resumption of peace talks between NDFP and the government of the Philippines (GPH), and due to humanitarian considerations for the POWs and their families,” Alan Juanito, spokesman of the NPA-North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
Even as the interfaith dialogue urged the rebels to patient over their demand for a truce, Major Christian Uy, 4th ID spokesman, said top military leaders had the final say.
“What the NPA did is kidnapping military personnel which is illegal and we have to uphold the law,” he said.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/10/14/release-of-soldiers-from-npa-pressed/
Monday, October 13, 2014
Transgender woman slay: ‘US Marines presented in police line-up’
From GMA News (Oct 13): Transgender woman slay: ‘US Marines presented in police line-up’
A lineup of suspects—all of them US Marines—have been presented for witnesses to identify the person who could be responsible for the killing of a transgender woman in Olongapo City on Saturday, the Philippine National Police in Central Luzon said on Monday.
Transgender woman Jeffrey Laude was found dead in an Olongapo City inn over the weekend. She was reported to have been seen with a foreigner before her death.
A lineup of suspects—all of them US Marines—have been presented for witnesses to identify the person who could be responsible for the killing of a transgender woman in Olongapo City on Saturday, the Philippine National Police in Central Luzon said on Monday.
Transgender woman Jeffrey Laude was found dead in an Olongapo City inn over the weekend. She was reported to have been seen with a foreigner before her death.
Chief Superintendent Raul Petrasanta, the police regional director in Central Luzon, said local police and the US Naval Criminal Investigative Service conducted a briefing "to give the identity of the suspect."
"Kasalukuyan pa lang briefing with NCIS [representatives] to give the identity of the suspect. We will release it as soon as possible," Petrasanta said.
"Police lineup pa lang pina-identify sa witness and all of them belong to the US Marines," he said.
"Police lineup pa lang pina-identify sa witness and all of them belong to the US Marines," he said.
A witness said Jeffrey was last seen with an American, who didn't give his name but who said he came from the "Peleliu ship," a report on GMA News' "24 Oras" said.
One of the US Navy ships that figured in a recent joint military exercise in the country is the USS Peleliu.
One of the US Navy ships that figured in a recent joint military exercise in the country is the USS Peleliu.
The Olongapo Police said it would request for the custody of the suspect once he was identified.
A source, however, said that the issue of custody may only be brought up if the case would be brought before the courts.
A source, however, said that the issue of custody may only be brought up if the case would be brought before the courts.
Earlier on Monday, the US Embassy in Manila disclosed that the "possible suspect" in the killing may have been a US Marine.
A report on "24 Oras" showed that the 26-year-old victim, who also used the the name "Jennifer Ganda," was found dead inside the toilet of a room at the Celfone Lodge in Olongapo City on Saturday night.
The victim was found slumped on the floor while her face was in the toilet bowl. A room attendant saw her lifeless about an hour after her companion left the lodge. The suspect left the door unlocked.
"Meron kaming na-notice na mga injuries especially doon sa mukha niya, sa part ng leeg niya, at sa dibdib kaya possible na inano siya sa toilet bowl, nilunod siya roon," Chief Inspector Gil Domingo of the Olongapo City Police Station 3 said in a report aired at GMA's "24 Oras."
A photo grab from a CCTV footage showed the victim with a foreign companion exiting a bar called Ambyanz Night Life.
The two walked across the street and checked in at the lodge around 10:55 pm, the television report said.
After an hour, Jennifer's body was found by the room attendant who was supposed to clean the room.
Police investigators said two used condoms were found in the bathroom.
"Maaring na-find out ng suspek na 'yung nakuha niyang partner is transgender. Maaring ito ang kanilang pinag-awayan o ito na 'yung ikina-pikon kaya nagawa niya itong krimen na ito," Domingo said.
Govt won’t assert jurisdiction over US soldier in transgender killing yet – Palace exec
From GMA News (Oct 13): Govt won’t assert jurisdiction over US soldier in transgender killing yet – Palace exec
Malacañang will wait for police investigators to ascertain the alleged involvement of a US serviceman in the killing of a transgender woman in Olongapo City before deciding whether the government will assert jurisdiction over the American soldier.
"It’s unconfirmed so we will let the ... authorities first determine what happened in that incident," presidential spokesman Secretary Edwin Lacierda said at a press briefing on Monday.
Malacañang will wait for police investigators to ascertain the alleged involvement of a US serviceman in the killing of a transgender woman in Olongapo City before deciding whether the government will assert jurisdiction over the American soldier.
"It’s unconfirmed so we will let the ... authorities first determine what happened in that incident," presidential spokesman Secretary Edwin Lacierda said at a press briefing on Monday.
"Until such time we would not like to make any comment or speculate as to the next steps taken," he added.
Earlier in the day, the US Embassy in Manila said a US Marine had been identified "as a possible suspect" in the killing of Jeffrey Laude, who also used the name Jennifer.
American military vessels have already been barred from leaving the Philippines until the probe on Laude's killing is concluded.
Also on Monday, UP professor Roland Simbulan called on the Philippine government to exert all efforts to ensure that the American soldier would not be able to leave the country.
Also on Monday, UP professor Roland Simbulan called on the Philippine government to exert all efforts to ensure that the American soldier would not be able to leave the country.
Under the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and the US, "Philippine authorities shall have jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses committed within the Philippines and punishable under the law of the Philippines."
The agreement, ratified by the Philippine Senate in 1999, gives US authorities exclusive jurisdiction over American personnel "with respect to offenses relating to the security of the United States" such as treason, sabotage and espionage."
Unsigned letter prompts AFP to probe purchases of hospital
From the Business World (Oct 13): Unsigned letter prompts AFP to probe purchases of hospital
THE PHILIPPINES’ armed forces is conducting a probe on allegations medicines and supplies bought by its hospital were either overpriced or undelivered.
The entire Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (AFPMC) is currently under investigation after an unsigned and undated letter was sent to the offices of the AFP Chief-of-Staff and the Ombudsman, a military spokesperson said in a press conference.
“The commander of the AFPMC is now being investigated with the whole members of the medical center by the OESPA (Office of the Ethical Standard and Public Accountability) as far as this allegation is concerned. The Chief-of-Staff wants to have a factual assessment of this to determine if there are indeed anomalies as stated,” AFP spokesperson Maj. Gen. Domingo M. Tutaan said in a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday.
Mr. Tutaan was unable to indicate if anomalies from the P80-million transaction involved overpricing, ghost purchases, or a rigged bidding, saying that the letter was “generally stated.” The anomalous purchase took place just this year, under the term of the present AFPMC commander, Brig. Gen. Normando T. Sta. Ana, Jr.
AFP Chief-of-Staff Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. has already ordered the OESPA of the military to handle the investigation as early as last month, Sept. 5, Mr. Tutaan said.
He also added that they have not yet received any orders from the Office of the Ombudsman compelling them to answer the accusation.
Mr. Tutaan also clarified that Mr. Sta. Ana, as well as any other AFPMC personnel are not yet relieved, saying that the AFP is still waiting for the initial report and findings of the investigation conducted by the OESPA.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=unsigned-letter-prompts-afp-to-probe-purchases-of-hospital&id=96011
THE PHILIPPINES’ armed forces is conducting a probe on allegations medicines and supplies bought by its hospital were either overpriced or undelivered.
The entire Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (AFPMC) is currently under investigation after an unsigned and undated letter was sent to the offices of the AFP Chief-of-Staff and the Ombudsman, a military spokesperson said in a press conference.
“The commander of the AFPMC is now being investigated with the whole members of the medical center by the OESPA (Office of the Ethical Standard and Public Accountability) as far as this allegation is concerned. The Chief-of-Staff wants to have a factual assessment of this to determine if there are indeed anomalies as stated,” AFP spokesperson Maj. Gen. Domingo M. Tutaan said in a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday.
Mr. Tutaan was unable to indicate if anomalies from the P80-million transaction involved overpricing, ghost purchases, or a rigged bidding, saying that the letter was “generally stated.” The anomalous purchase took place just this year, under the term of the present AFPMC commander, Brig. Gen. Normando T. Sta. Ana, Jr.
AFP Chief-of-Staff Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. has already ordered the OESPA of the military to handle the investigation as early as last month, Sept. 5, Mr. Tutaan said.
He also added that they have not yet received any orders from the Office of the Ombudsman compelling them to answer the accusation.
Mr. Tutaan also clarified that Mr. Sta. Ana, as well as any other AFPMC personnel are not yet relieved, saying that the AFP is still waiting for the initial report and findings of the investigation conducted by the OESPA.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=unsigned-letter-prompts-afp-to-probe-purchases-of-hospital&id=96011
Public hearings set for Bangsamoro
From the Business Mirror (Oct 13): Public hearings set for Bangsamoro
THE Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC), a body created by the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to recommend measures to correct historical injustices and address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, is set to conduct public consultations from now until June next year to come up with their report.
The commission will approach its work by considering the culture of the people, multiple narratives of history and ensuring inclusivity among the different stakeholders, TJRC Chairman Mo Bleeker said during the commission’s Manila launch last Saturday at the Shangri-La Hotel.
On October 4 the TJRC was officially introduced to the public in Cotabato City. Joining Bleeker in the TJRC are its members, Cecilia Jimenez (as government representative) and Ishak Mastura (as MILF representative), as well as Jonathan Sison who serves as senior adviser. The commission’s work is part of the normalization process specified in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
Government panel Chairman Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said that TJRC’s greatest contribution could be in pointing out how the country can effectively have sustainable justice and reconciliation in healing the internal conflict in the south.
“The work of the TJRC and its outcome must set off a process that does not control, formalize, bureaucratize nor narrow down the avenues, but rather generates, in addition to the state’s, people-driven initiatives to do transitional justice and reconciliation,” she explained.
Saying that “justice is political and it is also personal,” Coronel-Ferrer underscored that, “Our efforts must produce the needed state policies and institutions that would be responsive. It must make us more human, with faith and trust in the humanity that is in each one of us, knowing that this is what will unite us whoever we are, whatever identity we self-ascribe to or are other-ascribed. It must produce a norm-change, change the hate to love, convert the distrust to trust, ensconce the sense of personal and collective accountability and strengthen the desire to build peace.”
MILF peace panel Chairman and Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, in his message during the launch of TJRC, said that, “Achieving accountability [of human-rights violators], achieving justice and restoration [after conflict] is a tedious process for all.”
However, he said other paradigms have to be examined, beyond judicial approach or courts, to realize the goal of healing wounds of conflict toward reconciliation, to not repeat the state-sponsored human-rights violations in the past, and lead to the “eventual vanishing of discrimination.”
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles, also present at the TJRC launch, said that as a people, “we sometimes have a tendency to say ‘Huwag nang ungkatin pa and natapos na’ [Don’t try to dig up the past]. That’s why we tend to repeat historical injustices and tragedies. I am so glad that we are deliberately doing this now to ensure that the wrongdoings in the past…will not be repeated.”
Deles underscored that while rights of victims are important, it is also crucial to provide space for the right to forgive and right to embrace one’s enemy.
Also present at the TJRC Manila launch were members of the diplomatic community, including Swiss deputy chief of mission Raoul Imbach (who represented Swiss Ambassador Ivo Sieber), UK Ambassador Asif Ahmed, Brunei Ambassador Malai Halimah Yussof; GPH panel members Senen Bacani and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos chair Yasmin Busran-Lao; BTC Commissioners; Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Regional Human Rights Commission head Algamar Latiph; international non-governmental organizations, Mindanao historian Prof. Rudy Rodil, among others.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/public-hearings-set-for-bangsamoro/
THE Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC), a body created by the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to recommend measures to correct historical injustices and address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, is set to conduct public consultations from now until June next year to come up with their report.
The commission will approach its work by considering the culture of the people, multiple narratives of history and ensuring inclusivity among the different stakeholders, TJRC Chairman Mo Bleeker said during the commission’s Manila launch last Saturday at the Shangri-La Hotel.
On October 4 the TJRC was officially introduced to the public in Cotabato City. Joining Bleeker in the TJRC are its members, Cecilia Jimenez (as government representative) and Ishak Mastura (as MILF representative), as well as Jonathan Sison who serves as senior adviser. The commission’s work is part of the normalization process specified in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
Government panel Chairman Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said that TJRC’s greatest contribution could be in pointing out how the country can effectively have sustainable justice and reconciliation in healing the internal conflict in the south.
“The work of the TJRC and its outcome must set off a process that does not control, formalize, bureaucratize nor narrow down the avenues, but rather generates, in addition to the state’s, people-driven initiatives to do transitional justice and reconciliation,” she explained.
Saying that “justice is political and it is also personal,” Coronel-Ferrer underscored that, “Our efforts must produce the needed state policies and institutions that would be responsive. It must make us more human, with faith and trust in the humanity that is in each one of us, knowing that this is what will unite us whoever we are, whatever identity we self-ascribe to or are other-ascribed. It must produce a norm-change, change the hate to love, convert the distrust to trust, ensconce the sense of personal and collective accountability and strengthen the desire to build peace.”
MILF peace panel Chairman and Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chairman Mohagher Iqbal, in his message during the launch of TJRC, said that, “Achieving accountability [of human-rights violators], achieving justice and restoration [after conflict] is a tedious process for all.”
However, he said other paradigms have to be examined, beyond judicial approach or courts, to realize the goal of healing wounds of conflict toward reconciliation, to not repeat the state-sponsored human-rights violations in the past, and lead to the “eventual vanishing of discrimination.”
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles, also present at the TJRC launch, said that as a people, “we sometimes have a tendency to say ‘Huwag nang ungkatin pa and natapos na’ [Don’t try to dig up the past]. That’s why we tend to repeat historical injustices and tragedies. I am so glad that we are deliberately doing this now to ensure that the wrongdoings in the past…will not be repeated.”
Deles underscored that while rights of victims are important, it is also crucial to provide space for the right to forgive and right to embrace one’s enemy.
Also present at the TJRC Manila launch were members of the diplomatic community, including Swiss deputy chief of mission Raoul Imbach (who represented Swiss Ambassador Ivo Sieber), UK Ambassador Asif Ahmed, Brunei Ambassador Malai Halimah Yussof; GPH panel members Senen Bacani and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos chair Yasmin Busran-Lao; BTC Commissioners; Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Regional Human Rights Commission head Algamar Latiph; international non-governmental organizations, Mindanao historian Prof. Rudy Rodil, among others.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/public-hearings-set-for-bangsamoro/
Used condoms found near murdered transgender
From ABS-CBN (Oct 13): Used condoms found near murdered transgender
A US Marine is suspected of killing a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City.
The body of the victim, Jeffrey Laude alias "Jennifer," was found naked and lifeless inside a motel bathroom, with only a blanket covering her.
Based on the initial investigation of the Olongapo police, Laude's neck was pressed down on the toilet seat, while her head was being shoved into the toilet bowl.
Two used condoms were also found in the garbage can inside the hotel room.
CCTV footage taken at a bar in Olongapo City shows four male foreigners with Laude.
Laude's friend said the foreigners approached them inside the bar on the evening of October 11.
A few minutes later, Laude and one of the foreigners checked in at Celzone Lodge.
The foreigner was spotted leaving the room at 11:45 p.m.
Motel staff who entered the room to clean it found the victim's body.
There were no signs of a struggle in the bedroom and Laude's belongings were complete.
Police are now looking at two motives behind the killing.
One -- The foreigner could have found out that Laude was a transgender.
However, authorities doubt this theory because of the used condoms discovered in the room.
Another theory of investigators is Laude could have tried to steal from the foreigner.
The US embassy in Manila has said that a US Marine is the possible suspect.
BREADWINNER
For Laude's family, the brutal killing of their breadwinner is unbearable.
Laude was paying for the education of youngest sibling Rex, and also provided for their family's other needs.
Laude's sister Michelle last saw her alive at the bar that fateful Saturday night.
Michelle said Laude had a German fiance and she only dreamed of giving her family a better life.
The Laude family hopes they will not have to wait long for justice to be served.
JUSTICE
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario vows justice for Laude.
Del Rosario said he has met with US embassy officials and they will coordinate closely regarding the case.
In a statement, the US embassy expressed its deepest condolences to Laude's family and vowed to cooperate in the investigation.
American troops are currently in the country as part of a joint training exercise.
The drills are over, but no American ship will leave the Philippines, just yet.
Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered the USS Peleliu and another warship to stay in the former U.S. base of Subic Bay until after the murder investigation is over, executive director of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission, Eduardo Oban, said.
So far, there are few details about the case. But according to the Marine Corps Times and Navy Times, a US Marine and three others are already detained at the USS Peleliu.
Some Filipino lawmakers said the US Marine should be immediately placed under Philippine custody.
Under the Visiting Forces Agreement, the Philippines will have jurisdiction on criminal cases involving American servicemen, but the suspects will remain under US custody.
Women's group Gabriela now fears a repeat of the Subic rape case involving Lance Corporal Daniel Smith.
Smith was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2006. But three years later, the alleged victim Suzette Nicolas recanted and Smith was released.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/13/14/used-condoms-found-near-murdered-transgender
A US Marine is suspected of killing a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City.
The body of the victim, Jeffrey Laude alias "Jennifer," was found naked and lifeless inside a motel bathroom, with only a blanket covering her.
Based on the initial investigation of the Olongapo police, Laude's neck was pressed down on the toilet seat, while her head was being shoved into the toilet bowl.
Two used condoms were also found in the garbage can inside the hotel room.
CCTV footage taken at a bar in Olongapo City shows four male foreigners with Laude.
Laude's friend said the foreigners approached them inside the bar on the evening of October 11.
A few minutes later, Laude and one of the foreigners checked in at Celzone Lodge.
The foreigner was spotted leaving the room at 11:45 p.m.
Motel staff who entered the room to clean it found the victim's body.
There were no signs of a struggle in the bedroom and Laude's belongings were complete.
Police are now looking at two motives behind the killing.
One -- The foreigner could have found out that Laude was a transgender.
However, authorities doubt this theory because of the used condoms discovered in the room.
Another theory of investigators is Laude could have tried to steal from the foreigner.
The US embassy in Manila has said that a US Marine is the possible suspect.
BREADWINNER
For Laude's family, the brutal killing of their breadwinner is unbearable.
Laude was paying for the education of youngest sibling Rex, and also provided for their family's other needs.
Laude's sister Michelle last saw her alive at the bar that fateful Saturday night.
Michelle said Laude had a German fiance and she only dreamed of giving her family a better life.
The Laude family hopes they will not have to wait long for justice to be served.
JUSTICE
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario vows justice for Laude.
Del Rosario said he has met with US embassy officials and they will coordinate closely regarding the case.
In a statement, the US embassy expressed its deepest condolences to Laude's family and vowed to cooperate in the investigation.
American troops are currently in the country as part of a joint training exercise.
The drills are over, but no American ship will leave the Philippines, just yet.
Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered the USS Peleliu and another warship to stay in the former U.S. base of Subic Bay until after the murder investigation is over, executive director of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission, Eduardo Oban, said.
So far, there are few details about the case. But according to the Marine Corps Times and Navy Times, a US Marine and three others are already detained at the USS Peleliu.
Some Filipino lawmakers said the US Marine should be immediately placed under Philippine custody.
Under the Visiting Forces Agreement, the Philippines will have jurisdiction on criminal cases involving American servicemen, but the suspects will remain under US custody.
Women's group Gabriela now fears a repeat of the Subic rape case involving Lance Corporal Daniel Smith.
Smith was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2006. But three years later, the alleged victim Suzette Nicolas recanted and Smith was released.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/10/13/14/used-condoms-found-near-murdered-transgender
MILF seeks Pope Francis’ endorsement of Mindanao peace pact
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 12): MILF seeks Pope Francis’ endorsement of Mindanao peace pact
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has said it plans to write a letter to Pope Francis asking him to say something in support of the peace process in Mindanao in the course of his visit to the country on Jan. 17, 2015.
“We are thinking about writing the Pope to ask him to say something about the need for peace,” said Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILF peace panel that signed a comprehensive peace deal with the Philippine government on March 27, 2014.
Iqbal said a statement of support for the peace agreement signed between the Philippine government and the MILF would be a morale booster for efforts to hopefully end over four decades of Moro conflict in Mindanao.
“I think that the letter will be addressed and will be delivered very soon to the Pope,” Iqbal said in an interview with reporters over the weekend.
Civil society groups and international donor agencies have greeted the signing of the peace agreement with great enthusiasm, as it could end the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced communities in Central Mindanao.
After the signing of the comprehensive peace agreement, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, composed of the MILF and government representatives, came up with the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law, or the law that governs how the Bangsamoro political entity should be run, which has already been submitted to Congress for deliberation. Once Congress ratifies the document, the BBL will be submitted to a plebiscite to allow the people to decide whether to accept the proposed law or not.
Pope Francis will be in Leyte on Jan. 17, 2014, to visit survivors of the Super Typhoon “Yolanda,” a natural calamity, which ravaged huge parts of Central Visayas and claimed over 6,000 lives in November 2013.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/112378/milf-seeks-pope-francis-endorsement-of-mindanao-peace-pact
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has said it plans to write a letter to Pope Francis asking him to say something in support of the peace process in Mindanao in the course of his visit to the country on Jan. 17, 2015.
“We are thinking about writing the Pope to ask him to say something about the need for peace,” said Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILF peace panel that signed a comprehensive peace deal with the Philippine government on March 27, 2014.
Iqbal said a statement of support for the peace agreement signed between the Philippine government and the MILF would be a morale booster for efforts to hopefully end over four decades of Moro conflict in Mindanao.
“I think that the letter will be addressed and will be delivered very soon to the Pope,” Iqbal said in an interview with reporters over the weekend.
Civil society groups and international donor agencies have greeted the signing of the peace agreement with great enthusiasm, as it could end the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced communities in Central Mindanao.
After the signing of the comprehensive peace agreement, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, composed of the MILF and government representatives, came up with the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law, or the law that governs how the Bangsamoro political entity should be run, which has already been submitted to Congress for deliberation. Once Congress ratifies the document, the BBL will be submitted to a plebiscite to allow the people to decide whether to accept the proposed law or not.
Pope Francis will be in Leyte on Jan. 17, 2014, to visit survivors of the Super Typhoon “Yolanda,” a natural calamity, which ravaged huge parts of Central Visayas and claimed over 6,000 lives in November 2013.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/112378/milf-seeks-pope-francis-endorsement-of-mindanao-peace-pact
AFP chief: We have capable helicopters arriving
From Ang Malaya (Oct 13): AFP chief: We have capable helicopters arriving
“We have capable helicopters arriving for the PAF,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang said while doing rounds in Sulu. He noted that these helicopters will be capable of operating in the dark.
AgustaWestland is set to deliver AW-109 helicopters until July of 2015. “We are expecting delivery of eight AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopters starting January to July 2015,” Philippine Air Force said previously. While the Philippine Navy sees December 2014 for delivery.
Both Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force are waiting for armed variant of AW-109 choppers. AgustaWestland will be delivering two units for Navy and eight units for Philippine Air Force. The procurement is under AFP Modernization.
Philippine Navy is already operating three unarmed variant of AW-109.
Last July, eight pilots and twenty-two maintenance personnel for the said attack helicopters have trained in Italy.
“The Philippine Air Force’s AW109 Power configuration will feature a dedicated mission package and equipment including a combination of weapon systems,” says AgustaWestland. “These aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support.”
“We are committed to deliver the improved mission capabilities and high quality services the customer (AFP) deserves,” said Daniele Romiti, AgustaWestland Chief Executive Officer.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/13/4921-afp-chief-we-have-capable-helicopters-arriving
“We have capable helicopters arriving for the PAF,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang said while doing rounds in Sulu. He noted that these helicopters will be capable of operating in the dark.
AgustaWestland is set to deliver AW-109 helicopters until July of 2015. “We are expecting delivery of eight AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopters starting January to July 2015,” Philippine Air Force said previously. While the Philippine Navy sees December 2014 for delivery.
Both Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force are waiting for armed variant of AW-109 choppers. AgustaWestland will be delivering two units for Navy and eight units for Philippine Air Force. The procurement is under AFP Modernization.
Philippine Navy is already operating three unarmed variant of AW-109.
Last July, eight pilots and twenty-two maintenance personnel for the said attack helicopters have trained in Italy.
“The Philippine Air Force’s AW109 Power configuration will feature a dedicated mission package and equipment including a combination of weapon systems,” says AgustaWestland. “These aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support.”
“We are committed to deliver the improved mission capabilities and high quality services the customer (AFP) deserves,” said Daniele Romiti, AgustaWestland Chief Executive Officer.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/13/4921-afp-chief-we-have-capable-helicopters-arriving
PHIBLEX 15 concludes, US warships can’t leave PHL
From Ang Malaya (Oct 13): PHIBLEX 15 concludes, US warships can’t leave PHL
“The exercise was an overwhelming success because we were able to train and integrate with our Philippine partners,” said Col. Romin Dasmalchi, commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit of US Navy. This year’s edition of Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 15 concluded Friday, October 10.
“This was another great opportunity for our amphibious forces in 7th Fleet to train side-by-side with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) to better understand our capability to rapidly respond to any potential crisis in the region”, said Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, Commander of Expeditionary Strike Group.
However, two US Navy warships won’t be able to leave Philippine territories due to an incident linking a US Marine in the killing of a Filipino transgender last Saturday, October 11. The unnamed marine including three other US troops are currently detained in USS Peleliu (LHA-5) a Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship. The three were detained as possible witnesses.
According to report, Commander of the US Pacific Command Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered USS Peleliu and USS Germantown not to leave Philippine waters indefinitely.
US Embassy in Manila is now coordinating with Philippine National Police to help identify suspect.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/13/4937-phiblex-15-concludes-us-warships-cant-leave-phl
“The exercise was an overwhelming success because we were able to train and integrate with our Philippine partners,” said Col. Romin Dasmalchi, commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit of US Navy. This year’s edition of Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 15 concluded Friday, October 10.
“This was another great opportunity for our amphibious forces in 7th Fleet to train side-by-side with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) to better understand our capability to rapidly respond to any potential crisis in the region”, said Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, Commander of Expeditionary Strike Group.
However, two US Navy warships won’t be able to leave Philippine territories due to an incident linking a US Marine in the killing of a Filipino transgender last Saturday, October 11. The unnamed marine including three other US troops are currently detained in USS Peleliu (LHA-5) a Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship. The three were detained as possible witnesses.
According to report, Commander of the US Pacific Command Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered USS Peleliu and USS Germantown not to leave Philippine waters indefinitely.
US Embassy in Manila is now coordinating with Philippine National Police to help identify suspect.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/13/4937-phiblex-15-concludes-us-warships-cant-leave-phl
EDCA, Olongapo murder, and the old case of Daniel Smith
From Rappler (Oct 13): EDCA, Olongapo murder, and the old case of Daniel Smith
Jeffrey Laude's murder happened in the same city that the US reportedly wants covered by the new military deal, stoking fears of another battle over custody of a US serviceman who breaks PH law
The murder of Jeffrey Laude in Olongapo City allegedly by an American soldier happened on the weekend before a scheduled meeting that would discuss the expanded agreement to allow United States military presence in the Philippines.
There can't be a worse timing, officers interviewed by Rappler conceded.
US Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Locklear III met with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr on Monday, October 13, for an informal meeting that precedes discussions on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) set for Tuesday.
Catapang and Locklear are co-chairmen of the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB), the body tasked to decide the details of the new military-to-military agreement. It allows Americans two new activities: to build military facilities and to preposition defense assets in “agreed locations” that have yet to be determined by the two countries.
Laude's murder happened in Olongapo, the city where the former US Naval Station was located. It is the same naval station that the US military reportedly wants to be included in the "agreed locations" for EDCA.
One of the weakest militaries in Asia, the Philippines is resorting to EDCA as part of its strategy in securing the West Philippines Sea (South China Sea), where tension ocassionally erupts between claimant countries.
The new deal, however, is being contested in the Supreme Court for supposed unconstitutionality. Critics also protest that the deal is lopsided in favor of the Americans. (READ: Solgen to SC: EDCA needed to defend West PH Sea)
10 years ago, another US serviceman
The murder also recalls a decade-old case that split public opinion toward Americans in the Philippines. In December 2005, charges were filed against US serviceman Lance Corporal Daniel Smith for allegedly raping "Nicole," a Filipina, inside a moving van while other soldiers were supposedly cheering him on.
A Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll recorded one of the lowest net trust in the US among Filipinos during this period. A December 2005 poll showed a 35% net trust in the US. The Philippine ally currently enjoys a net trust of 76%, based on a March 2014 survey.
Screenshot of SWS survey
Smith and Nicole met in a bar also at the former Subic Bay Naval Station. The US soldier maintained that the sexual act was consensual, but "Nicole" was left lying on the side of the road.
It was the first case to be tried under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), a treaty ratified by the Philippine Senate and which allowed the return of the American troops to the Philippines after they were evicted in 1992.
But the bigger issue for women's and rights groups was the custody of Smith and the power of the Philippine laws over erring US servicemen. The Philippine government turned over custody of Smith to the US Embassy, where he remained while the rape case was pending before the Makati City regional trial court and even after the same court convicted him.
'The custody of any United States personnel over whom the Philippines is to exercise jurisdiction shall immediately reside with the United States military authorities, if they so request.' - Article V, Paragraph 6 of the Visitinf Forces Agreement
While the rape case was pending in the Makati court, the custody battle was in another battleground, the Supreme Court.
In December 2006, The Makati court would sentence Smith to life imprisonment, saying the victim was “severely intoxicated that night and was deprived of reason to consent to sex and incapable of sensing or fighting off danger.”
But appeals were filed and it reached the Court of Appeals (CA).
In February 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that the VFA has different provisions for US soldiers under trial and US soldiers who are already convicted by Philippine courts. The High Court said Smith should be detained in a Philippine facility after his conviction by the Makati court.
Smith, however, was not transferred to a Philippine prison. Two months later, in April 2006, the appeals court acquitted Smith, saying that what happened between the serviceman and the woman was "spontaneous, unplanned romantic episode." The ruling was released after "Nicole" submitted a letter recanting her allegations.
US vows cooperation
The same issue hangs as another US servicemen is tagged in the murder in Olongapo City. Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes Jr cautioned against the repeat of the battle over custody of erring US servicemen.
"The Philippine government must assert national sovereignty and jurisdiction over the American soldier. He must not be allowed to leave the country and should be immediately turned over to Philippine authorities for proper investigation and detention," Reyes said.
"Never again to the same circumstances that marred the Subic rape case. A Filipino was killed. This requires the assertion of our laws. Our government should ensure that justice would be served. Aquino should not junk national interest just because he's eager to implement the EDCA," Reyes added.
Later in the afternoon, Locklear also ordered to put on hold the departure of USS Peleliu and USS Germantown, the two ships that carried about 3,000 US sailors and marines for the annual Amphibious Landing Exercise.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/71871-edca-olongapo-daniel-smith
Jeffrey Laude's murder happened in the same city that the US reportedly wants covered by the new military deal, stoking fears of another battle over custody of a US serviceman who breaks PH law
The murder of Jeffrey Laude in Olongapo City allegedly by an American soldier happened on the weekend before a scheduled meeting that would discuss the expanded agreement to allow United States military presence in the Philippines.
There can't be a worse timing, officers interviewed by Rappler conceded.
US Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Locklear III met with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr on Monday, October 13, for an informal meeting that precedes discussions on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) set for Tuesday.
Catapang and Locklear are co-chairmen of the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB), the body tasked to decide the details of the new military-to-military agreement. It allows Americans two new activities: to build military facilities and to preposition defense assets in “agreed locations” that have yet to be determined by the two countries.
Laude's murder happened in Olongapo, the city where the former US Naval Station was located. It is the same naval station that the US military reportedly wants to be included in the "agreed locations" for EDCA.
One of the weakest militaries in Asia, the Philippines is resorting to EDCA as part of its strategy in securing the West Philippines Sea (South China Sea), where tension ocassionally erupts between claimant countries.
The new deal, however, is being contested in the Supreme Court for supposed unconstitutionality. Critics also protest that the deal is lopsided in favor of the Americans. (READ: Solgen to SC: EDCA needed to defend West PH Sea)
10 years ago, another US serviceman
The murder also recalls a decade-old case that split public opinion toward Americans in the Philippines. In December 2005, charges were filed against US serviceman Lance Corporal Daniel Smith for allegedly raping "Nicole," a Filipina, inside a moving van while other soldiers were supposedly cheering him on.
A Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll recorded one of the lowest net trust in the US among Filipinos during this period. A December 2005 poll showed a 35% net trust in the US. The Philippine ally currently enjoys a net trust of 76%, based on a March 2014 survey.
Screenshot of SWS survey Smith and Nicole met in a bar also at the former Subic Bay Naval Station. The US soldier maintained that the sexual act was consensual, but "Nicole" was left lying on the side of the road.
It was the first case to be tried under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), a treaty ratified by the Philippine Senate and which allowed the return of the American troops to the Philippines after they were evicted in 1992.
But the bigger issue for women's and rights groups was the custody of Smith and the power of the Philippine laws over erring US servicemen. The Philippine government turned over custody of Smith to the US Embassy, where he remained while the rape case was pending before the Makati City regional trial court and even after the same court convicted him.
'The custody of any United States personnel over whom the Philippines is to exercise jurisdiction shall immediately reside with the United States military authorities, if they so request.' - Article V, Paragraph 6 of the Visitinf Forces Agreement
While the rape case was pending in the Makati court, the custody battle was in another battleground, the Supreme Court.
In December 2006, The Makati court would sentence Smith to life imprisonment, saying the victim was “severely intoxicated that night and was deprived of reason to consent to sex and incapable of sensing or fighting off danger.”
But appeals were filed and it reached the Court of Appeals (CA).
In February 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that the VFA has different provisions for US soldiers under trial and US soldiers who are already convicted by Philippine courts. The High Court said Smith should be detained in a Philippine facility after his conviction by the Makati court.
Smith, however, was not transferred to a Philippine prison. Two months later, in April 2006, the appeals court acquitted Smith, saying that what happened between the serviceman and the woman was "spontaneous, unplanned romantic episode." The ruling was released after "Nicole" submitted a letter recanting her allegations.
US vows cooperation
The same issue hangs as another US servicemen is tagged in the murder in Olongapo City. Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes Jr cautioned against the repeat of the battle over custody of erring US servicemen.
"The Philippine government must assert national sovereignty and jurisdiction over the American soldier. He must not be allowed to leave the country and should be immediately turned over to Philippine authorities for proper investigation and detention," Reyes said.
"Never again to the same circumstances that marred the Subic rape case. A Filipino was killed. This requires the assertion of our laws. Our government should ensure that justice would be served. Aquino should not junk national interest just because he's eager to implement the EDCA," Reyes added.
The US promised to be cooperative in the investigation. As the story broke Monday morning, the US Embassy immediately issued a statement. "The United States Embassy in Manila expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jeffrey Laude, who was found dead in Olongapo City on October 11. A US Marine has been identified as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation. The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/71871-edca-olongapo-daniel-smith
US probes American tagged in Filipino's death
From Rappler (Oct 13): US probes American tagged in Filipino's death
The US Embassy says it is 'working closely' with the Philippine National Police to identify the suspects in the murder of Jeffrey Laude in Olongapo City
“We are aware of the situation and express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. We are also aware that there are allegations that a foreigner, including possibly a US national, was involved in the incident,” the US Embassy said in a statement aired by GMA News on Monday, October 13.
“We are currently looking into these allegations and working closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to take all necessary steps to help identify the suspects,” the embassy added. On Monday afternoon, the US Pacific Command ordered to put on hold the departure of US ships from Subic Bay. (READ: US stops departure of ships after transgender murder)
A police report on Sunday, October 12, identified the victim as Jeffrey Laude, also known as “Jennifer.”
Laude, 26, was found dead on the floor of a comfort room in Celzone Lodge, Olongapo City, according to the report signed by Police Chief Inspector Gil Arizo Domingo.
Laude's head “was leaning” on a toilet bowl, while “his lower body was partially covered with a color cream blanket” as the victim was naked.
Police saw injuries on Laude's neck.
Witness Elias Gallamos said Laude entered Celzone Lodge with an “unidentified male white foreigner” at around 10:55 pm on Saturday, Ocober 11. Gallamos said the foreigner sports a marine “style of hair cut,” and is between 25 and 30 years old.
The PNP said it is working to arrest the suspect.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/71859-us-embassy-transgender-murder-olongapo
The US Embassy says it is 'working closely' with the Philippine National Police to identify the suspects in the murder of Jeffrey Laude in Olongapo City
OLONGAPO MURDER. CCTV footage shows the victim, Jeffrey Laude, and the suspect in a hotel before the crime allegedly happened in Celzone Lodge, Olongapo City.
The United States Embassy in the Philippines has vowed to investigate the possible involvement of an American in the murder of a transgender Filipino in Olongapo City.
“We are currently looking into these allegations and working closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to take all necessary steps to help identify the suspects,” the embassy added. On Monday afternoon, the US Pacific Command ordered to put on hold the departure of US ships from Subic Bay. (READ: US stops departure of ships after transgender murder)
A police report on Sunday, October 12, identified the victim as Jeffrey Laude, also known as “Jennifer.”
Laude, 26, was found dead on the floor of a comfort room in Celzone Lodge, Olongapo City, according to the report signed by Police Chief Inspector Gil Arizo Domingo.
Laude's head “was leaning” on a toilet bowl, while “his lower body was partially covered with a color cream blanket” as the victim was naked.
Police saw injuries on Laude's neck.
Witness Elias Gallamos said Laude entered Celzone Lodge with an “unidentified male white foreigner” at around 10:55 pm on Saturday, Ocober 11. Gallamos said the foreigner sports a marine “style of hair cut,” and is between 25 and 30 years old.
The PNP said it is working to arrest the suspect.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/71859-us-embassy-transgender-murder-olongapo
PH, US Mutual Defense Board meets Tuesday as militants renew call vs informal basing
From InterAksyon (Oct 13): PH, US Mutual Defense Board meets Tuesday as militants renew call vs informal basing
Members of the militant group BAYAN picket the US Embassy in Manila in this June 12, 2014 file photo. BAYAN and several nationalist groups are raising a howl over the death of a Filipino, possibly at the hands of a US soldier whose ship is on port call at Subic.
High-ranking US and Philippine military officials will meet Tuesday on bilateral defense issues, in the shadow of a case that has given nationalist groups cause to revive calls to disallow American troops from the country: the death of a transgender, in a suspected homicide involving a US soldier.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines' public affairs chief, Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, said the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) meeting will focus on mutual security concerns to demonstrate increased bilateral commitment to the 63-year-old Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States, signed in 1951.
Among the key issues to be discussed are Mutual Defense, Maritime Security, Combating Terrorism, Philippine Defense Reform (PDR), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HA/DR), Civil-military Operations (CMO), Peacekeeping (PKO), Transnational Crimes, and Cyber Security.
AFP Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. chairs the Philippine delegation. His counterpart and co-chairman is Admiral Samuel Locklear III, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM).
Also attending are the AFP Major Services Commanders; the Chief, Philippine National Police; the Commandant, Philippine Coast Guard; the Executive Director of the Presidential Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFACOM).
The VFA and the recently forged Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) had been the beef of nationalist groups, who said these two accords circumvent the people's will as manifested in the historic Senate vote of 1991 that ended the RP-US Bases Treaty.
On Monday, the groups revived their calls to scuttle EDCA, which they have questioned before the Supreme Court, after receiving news that police were investigating the death of 26-year-old Filipino transvestite "Jeffrey/Jenny" Laude, in a lodge in Olongapo City.
Initial investigation said Laude was last seen with a Caucasian man, and US authorities acknowledged on Monday that one US soldier assigned to a visiting US vessel was being detained on-ship in connection with Laude's death.
MDB meeting
Meanwhile, AFP's Cabunoc said other participants in Tuesday's MDB meeting include representatives from the Department of National Defense and Department of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Commandant of the Philippine Marines and the Commander of the Special Operations Command, Philippine Army.
Both the Philippine and US delegation will seek to map out the direction of a bilateral defense partnership to sustain the dynamism and growth of the PH-US alliance and develop ways to ensure the continuing stability of the long-standing PH-U.S. strategic alliance, which has grown stronger through the years of steadfast cooperation in a rapidly changing global environment, said an AFP briefer.
Some of the expected major outputs of this year’s meeting will be the strategic direction for the bilateral engagement, the bilateral activities for year 2015, the five-year work plan in support of the PH-US Balikatan activities, revised Terms of Reference for the Standing Committees and its sub-committees to include changes in the memberships.
The Board Meeting, which implements the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States, is an affirmation of the long-standing defense cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Military.
According to the AFP, the MDB-SEB meeting "signifies that the partnership between the US and the Republic of the Philippines remains robust, dynamic, and beneficial to both parties, and underscores the unrelenting commitment of both countries towards a more secure Asia-Pacific region."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97195/ph-us-mutual-defense-board-meets-tuesday-as-militants-renew-call-vs-informal-basing
Members of the militant group BAYAN picket the US Embassy in Manila in this June 12, 2014 file photo. BAYAN and several nationalist groups are raising a howl over the death of a Filipino, possibly at the hands of a US soldier whose ship is on port call at Subic.
High-ranking US and Philippine military officials will meet Tuesday on bilateral defense issues, in the shadow of a case that has given nationalist groups cause to revive calls to disallow American troops from the country: the death of a transgender, in a suspected homicide involving a US soldier.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines' public affairs chief, Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, said the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) meeting will focus on mutual security concerns to demonstrate increased bilateral commitment to the 63-year-old Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States, signed in 1951.
Among the key issues to be discussed are Mutual Defense, Maritime Security, Combating Terrorism, Philippine Defense Reform (PDR), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HA/DR), Civil-military Operations (CMO), Peacekeeping (PKO), Transnational Crimes, and Cyber Security.
AFP Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. chairs the Philippine delegation. His counterpart and co-chairman is Admiral Samuel Locklear III, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM).
Also attending are the AFP Major Services Commanders; the Chief, Philippine National Police; the Commandant, Philippine Coast Guard; the Executive Director of the Presidential Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFACOM).
The VFA and the recently forged Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) had been the beef of nationalist groups, who said these two accords circumvent the people's will as manifested in the historic Senate vote of 1991 that ended the RP-US Bases Treaty.
On Monday, the groups revived their calls to scuttle EDCA, which they have questioned before the Supreme Court, after receiving news that police were investigating the death of 26-year-old Filipino transvestite "Jeffrey/Jenny" Laude, in a lodge in Olongapo City.
Initial investigation said Laude was last seen with a Caucasian man, and US authorities acknowledged on Monday that one US soldier assigned to a visiting US vessel was being detained on-ship in connection with Laude's death.
MDB meeting
Meanwhile, AFP's Cabunoc said other participants in Tuesday's MDB meeting include representatives from the Department of National Defense and Department of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Commandant of the Philippine Marines and the Commander of the Special Operations Command, Philippine Army.
Both the Philippine and US delegation will seek to map out the direction of a bilateral defense partnership to sustain the dynamism and growth of the PH-US alliance and develop ways to ensure the continuing stability of the long-standing PH-U.S. strategic alliance, which has grown stronger through the years of steadfast cooperation in a rapidly changing global environment, said an AFP briefer.
Some of the expected major outputs of this year’s meeting will be the strategic direction for the bilateral engagement, the bilateral activities for year 2015, the five-year work plan in support of the PH-US Balikatan activities, revised Terms of Reference for the Standing Committees and its sub-committees to include changes in the memberships.
The Board Meeting, which implements the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States, is an affirmation of the long-standing defense cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Military.
According to the AFP, the MDB-SEB meeting "signifies that the partnership between the US and the Republic of the Philippines remains robust, dynamic, and beneficial to both parties, and underscores the unrelenting commitment of both countries towards a more secure Asia-Pacific region."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97195/ph-us-mutual-defense-board-meets-tuesday-as-militants-renew-call-vs-informal-basing
Head of AFP Medical Center, 3 others probed for alleged P80-M procurement irregularity
From InterAksyon (Oct 13): Head of AFP Medical Center, 3 others probed for alleged P80-M procurement irregularity
AFP Medical Center (image from www.afpmedicalcenter.com)
The head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center and three other officials are being investigated over the allegedly irregular procurement of P80 million worth of medical supplies.
The purchase allegedly did not undergo the required public bidding.
AFP chief of staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. reportedly ordered the investigation of AFPMC commander Brigadier General Normando T. Sta. Ana Jr., special disbursing officer Lieutenant Colonel Florencio Ritchie I. Capulong, Management and Fiscal Office chief Major Neil D. Bugarin, and acting ACS for Logistics Colonel Rogelio S. Del Rio based on a complaint submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman by a certain Renato Villafuerte.
A copy of the complaint was obtained by Interaksyon.com.
AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. has yet to respond to questions sent to his mobile phone on the reported "parallel probe" ordered by Catapang.
In the complaint, Villafuerta asked Morales to investigate Sta. Ana and the other repsondents for alleged malversation of funds in violation of Republic Act 9184, or the Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003.
InterAksyon.com sent repeated requests to the AFPMC Public Affairs Office for the side of Sta. Ana and the other respondents but has received no reply so far.
In his complaint, Villafuerte said the respondents allegedly circumvented Rule XVI of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 9184, Section 48.2, which requires public bidding as a mode of procurement including "highly exceptional cases."
He said the respondents may also have violated Rule II, Sec. 7.1, which requires that "procurement should be within the appproved budget of he procuring entity."
He alleged that Capulong, with the approval of Sta. Ana, purchased the medicines and medical supplies from "favored suppliers" without bidding.
Aside from this, they also allegedly “requested realignment of funds amounting to (P)40 million to support the cash advance of Ltc Florencio Capulong," Villafuerte said.
"They also procure(d) medicines even without funds and procured on account. Millions na po ang utang nila kaya pagdating ng pondo ay halos ipangbayad na lang (Their debt runs to millions so when funds come these are almost all paid) through Cash Advance of Ltc Florencio Capulong," he added.
Villafuerte said the officers “have committed grave abuse of authority prejudicial to the interest of the government and also failed to adhere on the principle of transparency."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97178/head-of-afp-medical-center-3-others-probed-for-alleged-p80-m-procurement-irregularity
AFP Medical Center (image from www.afpmedicalcenter.com)
The head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center and three other officials are being investigated over the allegedly irregular procurement of P80 million worth of medical supplies.
The purchase allegedly did not undergo the required public bidding.
AFP chief of staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. reportedly ordered the investigation of AFPMC commander Brigadier General Normando T. Sta. Ana Jr., special disbursing officer Lieutenant Colonel Florencio Ritchie I. Capulong, Management and Fiscal Office chief Major Neil D. Bugarin, and acting ACS for Logistics Colonel Rogelio S. Del Rio based on a complaint submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman by a certain Renato Villafuerte.
A copy of the complaint was obtained by Interaksyon.com.
AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. has yet to respond to questions sent to his mobile phone on the reported "parallel probe" ordered by Catapang.
In the complaint, Villafuerta asked Morales to investigate Sta. Ana and the other repsondents for alleged malversation of funds in violation of Republic Act 9184, or the Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003.
InterAksyon.com sent repeated requests to the AFPMC Public Affairs Office for the side of Sta. Ana and the other respondents but has received no reply so far.
In his complaint, Villafuerte said the respondents allegedly circumvented Rule XVI of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 9184, Section 48.2, which requires public bidding as a mode of procurement including "highly exceptional cases."
He said the respondents may also have violated Rule II, Sec. 7.1, which requires that "procurement should be within the appproved budget of he procuring entity."
He alleged that Capulong, with the approval of Sta. Ana, purchased the medicines and medical supplies from "favored suppliers" without bidding.
Aside from this, they also allegedly “requested realignment of funds amounting to (P)40 million to support the cash advance of Ltc Florencio Capulong," Villafuerte said.
"They also procure(d) medicines even without funds and procured on account. Millions na po ang utang nila kaya pagdating ng pondo ay halos ipangbayad na lang (Their debt runs to millions so when funds come these are almost all paid) through Cash Advance of Ltc Florencio Capulong," he added.
Villafuerte said the officers “have committed grave abuse of authority prejudicial to the interest of the government and also failed to adhere on the principle of transparency."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97178/head-of-afp-medical-center-3-others-probed-for-alleged-p80-m-procurement-irregularity
U.S. warships stay in Philippines amid transgender murder probe
From InterAksyon (Oct 13): U.S. warships stay in Philippines amid transgender murder probe
The commander of U.S. Pacific Command has stopped two of its warships from leaving the Philippines after a U.S. Marine was named as a suspect in the murder of a transgender Filipino he met in a bar, a Philippine official said on Monday.
Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered the USS Peleliu and another warship to stay in the former U.S. base of Subic Bay until after the murder investigation is over, executive director of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission, Eduardo Oban, said.
U.S. troops have been taking part in a 10-day military exercise with the Philippines.
A U.S. Marine was in the custody of American military officials aboard USS Peleliu in connection with the case, the U.S. Navy Times said.
A police report said the 26-year-old victim was found strangled on Saturday in the toilet of a hotel room in Olongapo City, the town outside Subic famous for its sleazy bars.
"A U.S. Marine has been identified as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation," the U.S. Embassy said in a statement. "The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation."
Oban said Locklear was in Manila for an annual security meeting. His order to stop the warships was relayed to Filipino officials by a military advisory group.
The United States and the Philippines in April signed a new 10-year security pact that allows for a larger U.S. military presence in the country as it struggles to raise its defense capabilities amid territorial disputes with China.
"We are committed to do our part to ensure that justice is served," Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said after being informed about the crime.
In 2005, a U.S. Marine was accused of raping a Filipino woman in Subic Bay. He was convicted by a lower court but an appeals court reversed the ruling after the woman recanted her statement.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97215/u-s--warships-stay-in-philippines-amid-transgender-murder-probe
The commander of U.S. Pacific Command has stopped two of its warships from leaving the Philippines after a U.S. Marine was named as a suspect in the murder of a transgender Filipino he met in a bar, a Philippine official said on Monday.
Admiral Samuel Locklear ordered the USS Peleliu and another warship to stay in the former U.S. base of Subic Bay until after the murder investigation is over, executive director of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission, Eduardo Oban, said.
U.S. troops have been taking part in a 10-day military exercise with the Philippines.
A U.S. Marine was in the custody of American military officials aboard USS Peleliu in connection with the case, the U.S. Navy Times said.
A police report said the 26-year-old victim was found strangled on Saturday in the toilet of a hotel room in Olongapo City, the town outside Subic famous for its sleazy bars.
"A U.S. Marine has been identified as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation," the U.S. Embassy said in a statement. "The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation."
Oban said Locklear was in Manila for an annual security meeting. His order to stop the warships was relayed to Filipino officials by a military advisory group.
The United States and the Philippines in April signed a new 10-year security pact that allows for a larger U.S. military presence in the country as it struggles to raise its defense capabilities amid territorial disputes with China.
"We are committed to do our part to ensure that justice is served," Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said after being informed about the crime.
In 2005, a U.S. Marine was accused of raping a Filipino woman in Subic Bay. He was convicted by a lower court but an appeals court reversed the ruling after the woman recanted her statement.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97215/u-s--warships-stay-in-philippines-amid-transgender-murder-probe
US soldier detained over death of Pinoy transgender - Marine Corps Times
From InterAksyon (Oct 13): US soldier detained over death of Pinoy transgender - Marine Corps Times
A US Marine participating in a joint training exercise with the Philippine military has been detained onboard an American ship following the killing of a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City over the weekend, a report in the Marine Corps Times said.
The report said the unnamed Marine, from 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, “is being held on board the amphibious assault ship Peleliu while agents with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service piece together what happened Saturday night at the Celzone Lodge in Olongapo City.”
The report cited an internal Navy memo on the matter.
It added that, “three other Marines from the same unit, described as potential witnesses, also have been detained aboard the ship, according to the memo, which was distributed to dozens of senior Navy officials, as well as NCIS and State Department personnel.”
The Marines’ unit is participating in the PHIBLEX 15 exercises.
The Peleliu, on the other hand, is on a port call at Subic Bay until Tuesday, according to the Marine Corps Times.
Embassy confirms US soldier probed
In a statement later on Monday, the US embassy in Manila confirmed that the US soldier "has been identified as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation" as it offered "its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jeffrey Laude."
"The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation," the embassy statement said.
Reacting to the news, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan immediately demanded that the Marine immediately be handed over to local authorities, who are also investigating the death of Jeffrey Laude, 26, and that the Philippine government “must assert national sovereignty and jurisdiction over the American soldier.”
“A Filipino was killed. This merits the assertion of our laws, in the interest of justice,” Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr. said, adding that President Benigno Aquino III"should not junk national interest and justice just because he's eager to implement" the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US, which allows increased American military presence in the country.
Gabriela party-list Representative Emmi de Jesus said in a statement that Philippine law should prevail in the investigation of the US serviceman and challenged President Benigno Aquino III to “insist that the suspect face a Philippine court and not allow the VFA to trample on our sovereignty.”
Vencer Crisostomo demanded that the government stop the Peleliu from leaving and arrest the US serviceman.
Reports from the Olongapo-based organization Pagkakaisa ng Kababaihan (KAISA KA), said Laude, who used the name “Jennifer Laude,” had been picked up from the Ambyanz Disco Bar Saturday night and taken to the local lodge where he was found dead around 1 a.m. Sunday.
Both Reyes and De Jesus said the government should not allow the case of Laude to become a repeat of that of “Nicole,” the Filipina who accused US servicemen of raping her, also in Subic. Although one of them, Daniel Smith, was convicted and ordered detained at the Makati City jail by a court, he was spirited out of jail by Philippine authorities and handed over to the US embassy.
Smith was eventually acquitted by the Court of Appeals when Nicole eventually filed a statement saying she was too drunk to recall if she had, indeed, been raped, which was widely reported as a retraction.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97190/us-soldier-detained-over-death-of-pinoy-transgender---marine-corps-times
A US Marine participating in a joint training exercise with the Philippine military has been detained onboard an American ship following the killing of a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City over the weekend, a report in the Marine Corps Times said.
The report said the unnamed Marine, from 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, “is being held on board the amphibious assault ship Peleliu while agents with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service piece together what happened Saturday night at the Celzone Lodge in Olongapo City.”
The report cited an internal Navy memo on the matter.
It added that, “three other Marines from the same unit, described as potential witnesses, also have been detained aboard the ship, according to the memo, which was distributed to dozens of senior Navy officials, as well as NCIS and State Department personnel.”
The Marines’ unit is participating in the PHIBLEX 15 exercises.
The Peleliu, on the other hand, is on a port call at Subic Bay until Tuesday, according to the Marine Corps Times.
Embassy confirms US soldier probed
In a statement later on Monday, the US embassy in Manila confirmed that the US soldier "has been identified as a possible suspect in the ongoing investigation" as it offered "its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jeffrey Laude."
"The United States will continue to fully cooperate with Philippine law enforcement authorities in every aspect of the investigation," the embassy statement said.
Reacting to the news, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan immediately demanded that the Marine immediately be handed over to local authorities, who are also investigating the death of Jeffrey Laude, 26, and that the Philippine government “must assert national sovereignty and jurisdiction over the American soldier.”
“A Filipino was killed. This merits the assertion of our laws, in the interest of justice,” Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr. said, adding that President Benigno Aquino III"should not junk national interest and justice just because he's eager to implement" the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US, which allows increased American military presence in the country.
Gabriela party-list Representative Emmi de Jesus said in a statement that Philippine law should prevail in the investigation of the US serviceman and challenged President Benigno Aquino III to “insist that the suspect face a Philippine court and not allow the VFA to trample on our sovereignty.”
Vencer Crisostomo demanded that the government stop the Peleliu from leaving and arrest the US serviceman.
Reports from the Olongapo-based organization Pagkakaisa ng Kababaihan (KAISA KA), said Laude, who used the name “Jennifer Laude,” had been picked up from the Ambyanz Disco Bar Saturday night and taken to the local lodge where he was found dead around 1 a.m. Sunday.
Both Reyes and De Jesus said the government should not allow the case of Laude to become a repeat of that of “Nicole,” the Filipina who accused US servicemen of raping her, also in Subic. Although one of them, Daniel Smith, was convicted and ordered detained at the Makati City jail by a court, he was spirited out of jail by Philippine authorities and handed over to the US embassy.
Smith was eventually acquitted by the Court of Appeals when Nicole eventually filed a statement saying she was too drunk to recall if she had, indeed, been raped, which was widely reported as a retraction.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/97190/us-soldier-detained-over-death-of-pinoy-transgender---marine-corps-times
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