New images show Chinese airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef nearly finished

From InterAksyon (Jul 2): New images show Chinese airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef nearly finished



Chinese vessels around Fiery Cross Reef seen in a US Navy photograph taken from a P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft in May. (Reuters/US Navy/Handodut)

China has almost finished building a 3,000-meter long (10,000-foot) airstrip on one of the artificial islands it has created in the disputed Spratly archipelago of the South China Sea, new satellite photographs of the area show.

A US military commander had told Reuters in May that the airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef could be operational by yearend but the June 28 images suggest that could now be sooner.

The airstrip will be long enough to accommodate most Chinese military aircraft, security experts have said, giving Beijing greater reach into the heart of maritime Southeast Asia.

China said on Tuesday some of its land reclamation in the Spratlys, where it's building seven islands on top of coral reefs, had been completed, although it gave few details.

The latest photographs were taken by satellite imagery firm DigitalGlobe and published by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

AMTI said the airstrip was being paved and marked, while an apron and taxiway had been added adjacent to the runway.

Two helipads, up to 10 satellite communications antennas and one possible radar tower were visible on Fiery Cross Reef, it said. The images also showed a Chinese naval vessel moored in a port.

Recent images of Chinese-occupied South Johnson Reef also showed a large multi-level military facility in the center of the reef with two possible radar towers under construction, AMTI added. Two helipads and up to three satellite communications antennas were also visible, it said.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims.

China stepped up its creation of artificial islands last year, alarming several countries in Asia and drawing criticism from Washington. Beijing says the outposts will have undefined military purposes, as well as help with maritime search and rescue, disaster relief and navigation.

On Tuesday, the Foreign Ministry did not specify where land reclamation had been completed in the Spratlys. Recent images indicate there is still much reclamation continuing at Mischief Reef and Subi Reef.

The US State Department's number two diplomat last Friday compared China's behavior in pursuit of territory in the South China Sea to that of Russia in eastern Ukraine.

A day later, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said changing position on China's claims to the South China Sea would shame the country's ancestors, while not facing up to infringements of Chinese sovereignty there would shame its children.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/113459/new-images-show-chinese-airstrip-on-fiery-cross-reef-nearly-finished

‘Part of normalization’: Army brigade leaves Camp Abubakar

From MindaNews (Jul 1): ‘Part of normalization’: Army brigade leaves Camp Abubakar

An Army brigade has been pulled out of Camp Abubakar, a former major camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in this town, a move that military officials said was part of the normalization process.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the 603rd Infantry Brigade under Col. Ariel dela Vega, has transferred its camp to Barangay Pigcalagan, Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao, around 10 kilometers away from the MILF’s Camp Darapanan.

The 15,000-hectare Camp Abubakar fell into government hands following former President Estrada’s “all-out war” in 2000, a conflict that displaced over a million civilians in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato.

But Pangilinan clarified the Army was not abandoning the area but just realigning its troops.
“We are not returning the camp to the MILF.  In fact we applied for the declaration of the area as military reservation,” the Army official told reporters, adding the complex will be the storage site of decommissioned MILF firearms under the custody of the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) led by Turkey.

Pangilinan, assisted by Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), folded the 603rd Infantry Brigade banner and opened the flag of the 37th Infantry Battalion which replaced the brigade.

Hataman and Maguindanao Rep. Bai Sandra Sema recalled the hardships and loss of lives and properties of Moro residents during the war.

Brig. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. and Rashid Ladiasan, GPH and MILF ceasefire committee chairpersons, respectively, witnessed the pullout of the brigade.

Pangilinan said over 3,000 hectares will become the resettlement site of decommissioned MILF fighters and their families.

Last month, the MILF decommissioned 145 fighters and 75 high-powered and 20 crew-served weapons in the presence of President Aquino and the IDB.

The initial decommissioning took place amid uncertainties on the fate of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in Congress.

The BBL will replace the ARMM after its ratification through a plebiscite.

But some senators viewed the proposed measure as unconstitutional. Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said they would file substitute bills.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives adjourned their session last month without putting the BBL to a vote.

The MILF has declared it would not accept a BBL that is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2015/07/01/part-of-normalization-army-brigade-leaves-camp-abubakar/

Army, PNP hunt down ambushers of 2 cops in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): Army, PNP hunt down ambushers of 2 cops in Maguindanao

Joint police and military authorities have launched a manhunt against two suspected hitmen of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who ambushed two policemen in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao Tuesday.

Senior Inspector Solaiman Bakal, police chief of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, said police have the identities of the suspects but withheld them as pursuit operation was still on going.

Bakal said the suspects shot and killed Police Officer 1 Habib Nasifu and wounded PO1 Abdullah Asim, both belonging to the PNP Regional Public Safety Battalion based in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao.

Bakal said the two unarmed and in civilian clothes police officers were onboard a tricycle at 10 a.m. when two men riding tandem opened fire on them from behind in Sitio Manhole, Barangay Lower Salbo.

Responding policemen recovered empty shells of cal. 45 pistols at the crime scene.

Tuesday’s attack was one of the series of "hit and run" tactics by the BIFF whose strength had been reduced to less than 50 after the Army launched massive offensive against them in February.

Its spokesperson, Abu Misri Mama, quickly admitted his group was behind the attack.

Since January, at least 10 soldiers and policemen have been neutralized by BIFF hit men in Maguindanao.

Capt. Joan Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the BIFF could no longer launch major attacks against government forces and shifted to guerilla tactics, attacking soft targets like policemen and soldiers in civilian clothes conducting rehabilitation efforts in the province.

Before Tuesday's attack, the BIFF shot dead two young soldiers who were working as carpenters of Datu Unsay Elementary School.

The soldiers, both unarmed and in athletic uniforms, were on board motorbike from Shariff Aguak town carrying carpentry tools when ambushed by BIFF gunmen riding in a separate motorbike.

Following the rising cases of BIFF attacks, Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th ID chief, directed all military units in Maguindanao to refrain from using motorbike as mode of transportation along hot spot areas of the province.

Soldiers were directed to always move in tandem and armed using military vehicles to prevent sudden and unexpected attacks from BIFF lawless groups.

Despite the harassment against foot soldiers, Pangilinan said the Army will continue its peacekeeping mission in Maguindanao by helping civilians during calamities, rehabilitate damaged schools and infrastructures.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=778102

NPA rebels shot dead CAFGU member in Camarines Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): NPA rebels shot dead CAFGU member in Camarines Norte

New People's Army (NPA) rebels gunned down an active member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) who was watching a public dance at about 8 p.m. Tuesday at Barangay Magsaysay, Capalonga, Camarines Norte.

Dead on the spot was Malix Alvarez, 19, a student, who belonged to the Barangay Alayao Patrol Base of the Philippine Army and a resident of the Old Camp in Capalonga.

Alvarez had just came from a motorcycle shop with another CAFGU member to have his vehicle fixed.

They passed by a barangay feast day public dance when they came back and decided to watch the activity.

Two men, armed with .45-caliber pistol, approached him and fired at him, causing his instantaneous death.

The victim's companion ran towards their camp to get reinforcement but the rebels had already escaped.

Maj. Gen Yerson Depayso, commander of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, has ordered his men to be doubly alert as a result of the offensive stance of the rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=778152

President Aquino awards outstanding PAF personnel, units during its 68th founding anniversary rites at Clark

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): President Aquino awards outstanding PAF personnel, units during its 68th founding anniversary rites at Clark

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday cited the efforts of its personnel and units for the vital contribution to the success of their mission, vision and programs of the organization.

President Benigno Aquino III, together with PAF Chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado presented the awards to the deserving men and women of the Philippine Air Force in its 68th founding anniversary rites held at the Haribon Hangar here.

The Division of the Year award went to the 3rd Air Division, under the command of Major Gen. Emeraldo Magnaye, who is also the concurrent vice commander of PAF.

The Command of the Year award, on the other hand, was given to the Air Logistics Command under Major Gen. Isagani Silva. ‪

The Wing Support of the Year award was bestowed to the 420th Supply Wing s under the command of Brig. Gen. Rene Santos while the PAF Model Base award was presented to the 530th Air Base Wing under the command of Brig. Gen. Anselmo Doroteo Junsay III.

The Group Tactical of the Year award went to the Tactical Operations Group 10 which is under the command of Lt. Col. Leo Fontilla.

The Headquarters Service Support Group, which is under the command of Col. Abner Maranon, was recognized as the Support Group of the Year.

The 4th Air Force Wing Reserve, Air Force Reserve Command, Antonio Bautista Air Force, under the command of Col. Constancia De Guzman, named as the Ready Reserve Wing of the Year.

Meanwhile, Major Rhanjee Lao, the squadron commander of the 471st Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS), 220th Airlift Wing, was awarded as the PAF Officer of the Year.

TSgt. Eugenio Tuyay, who is the helicopter mechanic of the 452nd Field Maintenance Squadron, 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, was named as the PAF Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year.

The PAF Airman of the Year award, on the other hand, went to Sgt. Reynaldo Gomez, who is the aircraft maintenance mechanic of the 431st Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) Defense Wing, Basa Air Base. ‪

The PAF Model Employee of the Year award was bestowed on Roy Dave Magbanua, supply accountability officer for disposal of the 420th Supply Wing (SW). ‪

The PAF Model Supervisor of the Year award was given to Monina Jovenal, who is the chief civilian personnel, Management Branch, Headquarters Service Support Group (HSSG), HPAF, VAB.

The PAF chief, in his message, urged his colleagues to strive hard for the realization of the organization’s mission.

With this year’s theme "Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan," the event was highlighted with the display of PAF's air assets.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=778155

Top military official urges Filipinos to use social media to help claim West Philippine Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): Top military official urges Filipinos to use social media to help claim West Philippine Sea

Social media is a potent tool to bring awareness among Filipinos about the Philippines' rightful claim in the disputed West Philippine Sea, said a high military official here Tuesday.

"Social media has a lot of potential to bring awareness among our constituents," said Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez, commander of Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (WESCOM) during the Multi-Sectoral Forum on the West Philippine Sea Issue jointly organized in this city by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippines Information Agency (PIA).

With the dawn of digital age, Lopez urged netizens to share contents online, particularly on Facebook, about the territorial row that is now getting simmering with China's massive reclamation activities in the features the country own, as defined by the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

"By sharing it with your friends on Facebook, you're also making them known ano talagang meron dito sa (… what is really here in the) West Philippine Sea issue," Lopez said.

The commander, meanwhile, scored Filipino netizens, whom he said are doing nothing but rant online.

"Some of our constituents -- some of them are legislators and militant groups --- ngakngak lang nang ngakngak, wala naming solusyon na ibinibigay (they complain and complain, but are not offering any solution). They always complain," he said, adding that "if you have a solution, please come up [because] your government is listening."

In January 2013, the Philippine government lodged an arbitration case against China before the Netherlands-based UN Permanent Court of Arbitration.

After passing its 4,000-page memorial in 2014, the legal team headed by Solicitor General Florin Hilbay is set for oral arguments next week, from July 7 to 13 in The Hague.

China has since snubbed the arbitration case with its non-compliance of its counter-memorial due in December 2014.

China has continued its massive creeping reclamation activities that are reportedly nearing completion. United States said recently that China has built 2,000 acres (800 hectares) of artificial islands out of the then submerged islets.

What makes the Philippines infuriated even more is when China dredges up pulverized coral reefs as aggregates to the artificial islands, where facilities is being built that the latter says will be used for civilian and military purposes.

In spite of all, the Philippines has done no development activities that will change the status quo of the features it claim, pursuant to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the South China Sea, and also not to jeopardize the pending arbitration case.

The arbitration tribunal is expected to decide on the case with finality in the first quarter of 2016.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=778023

EMC disarms 56 IEDs in first six months of 2015

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): EMC disarms 56 IEDs in first six months of 2015

As a result of its intensified mine-clearing activities, the Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command has recovered and disarmed 56 New People's Army (NPA) improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for the first six months of 2015.

This was disclosed by EMC public affairs office Capt. Alberto Caber in a message to the PNA.

He added that most of these IEDs were recovered by government troopers along major road networks and population centers in their area-of-operations.

It can be recalled that on April 1, a civilian was killed while seven others were injured in an IED explosion along the road in Brgy. Mahayag, San Miguel, Surigao Del Sur.

Moreover, on April 20, two innocent civilians were wounded as a result of an IED explosion that was perpetrated by NPA bandits along the national highway in Sitio Bagong Silang, Brgy San Vicente, Makilala, North Cotabato.

Caber said the continuous manufacture and use of these IEDs are gross violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778033

Modernizing PCG is the only key to protect our territorial waters -- Madrona

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): Modernizing PCG is the only key to protect our territorial waters -- Madrona

Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona wants to strengthen the capabilities of our own Coast Guard to secure the country’s 36,000-kilometer coastline, as well as territorial waters.

This after China’s current aggressive activities in the West Philippine Sea who insists they own the disputed area despite evidences presented by the Philippine government which they did not recognized.

The senior House leader said modernizing the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) under his House Bill 5112, or “An Act modernizing the Philippine Coast Guard, Creating for the Purpose the Philippine Coast Guard Modernization Trust Fund and Appropriating Funds Therefor,” will solve the problem.

Under the measure, the modernization program components include organization development, professionalization of its human resources; doctrinal development, infrastructure development and equipment and facilities acquisition and modernization.

The veteran lawmaker said the proposed program shall be based on a ceiling of Php50 billion for the first five years, and thereafter, may be increased commensurate to the increase in the gross national product.

“The PCG Modernization Trust Fund to be administered by the transportation secretary shall be used exclusively for the PCG modernization program, excluding salaries and allowances,” the Romblon solon said in his bill.

 

“The funds to be appropriated by Congress shall be treated as a distinct and separate budget item from the regular appropriations for the PCG and shall be administered by the DOTC Secretary,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778158

President Aquino vows to double efforts to further modernize air force

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): President Aquino vows to double efforts to further modernize air force

With his administration already surpassing accomplishments of his three predecessors, President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday vowed to double the efforts of his government to modernize further the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

”It is clear: We have now a government which takes care of our soldiers who protect our people,” the President said in his speech during the 68th PAF Founding Anniversary in Clark Air Base, Pampanga.

”In the remaining months of my administration, rest assured that our support to you will not diminish. We will double our efforts to hasten further the molding of our air force that can be proud of by our bosses now and in the coming generations,” he added.

Attending the PAF anniversary for the last time as Commander-in-Chief, the President told the airmen that he would be leaving an Air Force that is equipped and modernized, having completed 55 projects in five years compared to the total of 45 done by his three predecessors.

”Sa mabuting pamamahala, pinaunlad natin ang kakayahan at kagamitan ng mga kawal ng bayan. Ang hangad natin: Bigyang-lakas kayo upang mas epektibo ninyong magampanan ang inyong mandato. Kaya nga po tuloy-tuloy ang pagsusulong natin ng modernisasyon sa AFP,” the President said.

Under his administration, the President said the PAF increased its C-130 from one to three while two more units will be arriving to strengthen its heavy-lift capability.

The PAF also received first of its three Casa C295 medium lift transports and two newly-acquired Bell 412.

”Nakatakda ding dumating ang dalawa pang units ng C-295, dalawang C-212 light lift transports, at anim pang Bell 412 combat utility helicopters,” the President said.

He said six close-air support aircrafts will also soon be delivered to reinforce the PAF’s operation capability.

President Aquino said the first two units of the FA-50 lead-in fighter trainer jets bought from South Korea will also be delivered in December.

”Malapit na nga pong mag-take-off sa sarili nating airbase ang fighter jets na ito, na inaasahang higit na maglilinang sa kakayahan nating pangalagaan ang ating teritoryo,” President Aquino said.

Aside from modernization of the PAF equipments, President Aquino said his government has also improved the lives of the soldiers through housing programs, increased subsistence allowance and necessary uniforms for the airmen.

”Mayroon din tayong isinusulong na PAF Flight Plan 2028, para gawing mas malawakan ang transpormasyon sa inyong organisasyon,” he said.

The President also thanked the airmen for performing their duties and responsibilities to protect the country not only from local and national threats but also during the emergencies and calamities particularly the Zamboanga siege and typhoon Yolanda.

”Tunay po: Hindi matatawaran ang tapang at dedikasyon ng ating Hukbong Himpapawid at ng ating buong unipormadong hanay. Gaano man kasalimuot ang sitwasyon, gaano man kadambuhala ang hamon sa inyong harapan, nakahanda kayong itaguyod ang interes at kaligtasan ng sambayanan,” President Aquino said.

”Hindi man araw-araw naibabalita ang inyong mahahalagang operasyon, hindi man laging naihahayag ang inyong kabayanihan, patuloy pa rin kayo sa pagpapakitang-gilas alang-alang sa inyong kapwa at bandila. Sa ngalan ng sambayanan, maraming-maraming-maraming salamat sa inyong serbisyo,” he added.

He also thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Department of National Defense (DND) leadership for helping him achieved the transformation being enjoyed now by the Filipino soldiers.

The President particularly mentioned AFP chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, PAF Commanding General Jeffrey Delgado, and Generals Ricardo David, Eduardo Oban Jr., Jessie Dellosa, Emmanuel Bautista, Oscar Rabena and Larry dela Cruz.

”Kasabay ng pagbati ko sa inyong ika-68 na anibersaryo, nais kong ipaabot sa inyo: Tunay na karangalan ko ang makapaglingkod bilang Pangulo at Commander-in-Chief ng isang Sandatahang Lakas na nagsisilbing ehemplo ng husay, disiplina, at propesyonalismo,” the President said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778148

PAF logs 28,179.6 flying hours during past year

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): PAF logs 28,179.6 flying hours during past year

As the Philippine Air Force (PAF) celebrated its 68th founding anniversary on Wednesday at the former Clark Air Force Base in Pampanga, Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado announced that the air service had logged 28,179.6 flying hours over the past year.

"Over the past anniversary year 2014-2015, the PAF was able to accomplish a total of 28,179.6 flying hours in 21,741 sorties," Delgado said.

During that time, the PAF chief said that their aircraft transported 83,809 passengers and 5,593,012 pounds of cargo to various destinations in the Philippines.

"A huge amount of these missions were conducted in support of territorial defense, security and stability, with the rest for humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and force level command and control. We ably supported military offensive against the BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters) and other lawless elements in Mindanao and in other parts of the country," he added.

Aside from this, Delgado said that the Air Force successfully deployed the PAF mobile disaster response units to Samar when typhoon "Ruby" struck the province in December 2014.

Besides fulfilling these missions, the PAF also saw the delivery of seven refurbished UH-1 helicopters, the first of three C-295 medium transport aircraft and the initial batch of Bell 412EP combat utility helicopters.

"These new aircraft and the others that will be arriving in the coming years will significantly improve the PAF's capabilities to accomplish its mandated versions," Delgado said.

The PAF chief also took time to thank President Benigno S. Aquino III, who was the guest of honor, for his efforts in modernizing the Air Force.

"Sir, thank you very much for your support to the PAF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines," he said.

With these positive developments, Delgado said the PAF remains more committed and dedicated in its duty to defend the nation's territory and people.

"Our sorties in the western borders help strengthen the arm of our diplomats by providing them with critical information. Communities can count on the Air Force being there whether the challenge comes from those who threaten the peace or those from the fury of nature," the PAF chief stressed.

Delgado also said that the PAF will work hand-in-hand with other stakeholders to provide a whole-nation approach in addressing national security concerns.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778126

Korean-donated LCU now at Cavite shipyard --PN

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): Korean-donated LCU now at Cavite shipyard --PN

The South Korean "Mulgae" landing craft unit (LCU), which was donated to the Philippine Navy (PN) last June 2014, is now undergoing machinery and equipment repairs at the Cavite Navy Yard.

"The LCU arrived last May 30. It was shipped here from South Korea. The ship is now undergoing some machinery and equipment repairs by our shipyard in Cavite," PN flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus Millan said in a message to the PNA on Wednesday.

Millan said the government shouldered the shipping cost of P16 million.

The South Korean government expressed its commitment to donate an LCU to the Philippines during Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin's visit in Seoul last year.

This is aside from the 16 rubber boats which are expected to beef up the Philippines' humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capability.

LCUs are used to ferry troops and other equipment to areas where larger ships, by course of their large draft, are unable to dock.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778117

USS Lassen drops anchor for Subic Bay port visit

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): USS Lassen drops anchor for Subic Bay port visit

The USS Lassen (DDG-82), another Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer of the US Navy, dropped anchor at Subic Bay, Zambales for a routine port visit Wednesday.

The American ship has a crew of 320 officers and enlisted personnel, including members of the "Warlords" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51.

She is commanded by Cmdr. Robert Francis.

Prior to arrival in Subic Bay, the USS Lassen conducted presence patrols in the South China Sea and in waters around the Philippine Islands.

"With all the natural beauty the Philippines has to offer, I am honored and excited to bring Lassen back to Subic Bay," Francis said.

"For many of our sailors, this is a real treat to be coming back to such a beautiful country. I could not ask for a more exciting and culture-rich port to visit," he added.

During the port visit, the American crew will have the opportunity to interact with local citizens, experience Philippine culture, give back to the local community through several community relation projects and enjoy the natural splendor of the surrounding land and seascapes, Lt. (JG) Lauren Chatmas, USS Lassen public affairs officer, said.

The United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) in May eased liberty restrictions on US troops in the Philippines. With the lifting of the liberty ban effective May 29, visiting US troops are once again allowed to go on pass or shore leave to briefly experience Filipino culture.

While on liberty, all US military personnel are required to observe the "buddy system," wherein one has to be accompanied by another service member, Department of Defense civilian contractor, spouse or adult family member when on liberty pass.

The USS Lassen, one of seven destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, is currently on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778200

Gov't peace panel keeps hopes high on Congress' okay of BBL

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): Gov't peace panel keeps hopes high on Congress' okay of BBL 
 

The government peace panel expressed optimism that the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will get the thumbs up of majority of members of the present Congress despite lingering questions of some legislators.

GPH peace panel member Senen Bacani said the government peace team is optimistic that the draft Bangsamoro law will pass the legislative hurdle, pointing out that the measure has the full support of President Benigno Aquino III and the leaderships of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Bacani said: “Hopefully with a fuller discussion of this law there will be a better understanding of what is in there for everybody. We’ve always said that we’re relying on the collective wisdom of the members of both houses [Senate and House of Representatives] to come up with a law that will basically satisfy the aspirations of the Bangsamoro and one that will be in accordance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).”

“We know that there is no such thing as an overnight process. What is important is the implementation of the law. And what is even more important is the spirit of the law. (And) how do you change the mindset of people? That cannot be done overnight. There has to be a new way of thinking,” he added.

While he conceded that prejudices and biases brought by past and current social and cultural inequities add to the challenges confronting the BBL, Bacani said these should not be stumbling blocks in the approval of the proposed bill.

He pointed out anew that the full implementation of the decommissioning process is concurrent to the enactment of the draft BBL into law.

“As previously agreed in the Annex on Normalization, the phase two of the decommissioning process, (which is the completion of) validation of MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) forces and weapons up to the ratification of the BBL, it naturally follows that the 30 percent decommissioning will also happen in phase two,” Bacani said.

He likewise stressed that the MILF has proven that it can partner with the government in providing security and in the implementation of the law, particularly in areas in Mindanao with presence of armed groups.

“(This measure) will be the first step towards a road to a just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro and in Mindanao,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778185

President Aquino leads Air Force's 68th anniversary celebration in Pampanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Ju1 1): President Aquino leads Air Force's 68th anniversary celebration in Pampanga

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the celebration of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) 68th founding anniversary here on Wednesday, urging its leadership to continue adhering to the righteous path so that reforms in the organization could be sustained in the long term.

During the event, held in Clark Air Base, the President highlighted the successes of his administration in pushing for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the past five years.

He noted that aside from the acquisition of modern airplanes and weaponry, and the training of Air Force personnel, the PAF has a long-term plan that must be continued even after he steps down from office next year.

"Mayroon din tayong isinusulong na PAF Flight Plan 2028, para gawing mas malawakan ang transpormasyon sa inyong organisasyon," President Aquino said in his speech.

He said that the plan for the Air Force’s modernization will span three administrations.

"Ibig sabihin, kung gusto nating makitang magtagumpay ang planong ito, kailangang tuloy-tuloy ang pagpanig natin sa Daang Matuwid; oras nga po na lumihis tayo mula rito, pihadong mauudlot ang pagsagad ninyo sa positibong pagbabagong ating nasimulan," he said.

The AFP's modernization is continuing, he said, adding that in the past five years, the government has been able to complete 55 projects under the present modernization program, surpassing the 45 projects completed by the three previous administrations.

Reforms in government and prudent spending have resulted in major upgrades for the Air Force's assets, he said.

These upgrades include the purchase of two C-130 cargo planes, in addition to the three C-130s the PAF has at present, the President said.

An additional two units of the C-295 will arrive soon as well as two units of C-212 light lift transport planes. Six units of Bell 412 combat utility helicopters will also be delivered to the Air Force.

Also in the pipeline are six close-air support aircraft that will give the PAF enhanced capabilities to patrol the country's air space.

This December, the President said, the PAF will receive the first two brand new FA-50 lead-in fighter trainer jets acquired by the Philippines from South Korea.

The Philippine government is also acquiring 12 units of FA-50s from South Korea in a contract worth Php18.9 billion.

In June, the first FA-50 to be delivered to the Philippines, manufactured by the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), made its maiden flight.

"Malapit na nga pong mag-take-off sa sarili nating airbase ang fighter jets na ito, na inaasahang higit na maglilinang sa kakayahan nating pangalagaan ang ating teritoryo," the President said.

Aside from giving the PAF and its personnel new equipment, weapons and training, the government is also providing them their basic needs, he said.

Under Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the government’s housing program for military personnel, 52,641 houses have been built, he said, noting that 6,400 of these are intended for PAF personnel.

The government also raised the Subsistence Allowance for members of the AFP and is also providing them funds for appropriate uniforms, the President added.

Joining President Aquino during the event were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Catapang, Jr., and Air Force Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado.

The PAF's 68th founding anniversary carried the theme "Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan".

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778277

PN personnel for Aussie-donated ships now in Australia

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): PN personnel for Aussie-donated ships now in Australia

Ten Philippine Navy (PN) personnel have already flown to Australia to pick up the two LCHs (landing craft heavy) earlier donated to the country by the Australian government last January.

This was disclosed by PN public affairs office chief Cmdr. Lued Lincuna in a message to the PNA Thursday.

"Ten personnel departed for Cairns, Australia last June 29. They will compose the initial sailing crew for training and logistic support (of the two LCHs)," he added.

Lincuna said the ships are expected to arrive before the end of July or first week of August at the latest.

These LCHs are named the HMAS Tarakan and HMAS Brunei in the Royal Australian Navy service.

The two LCHs were decommissioned from Australian service at a ceremony in Cairns last Nov. 19, 2014.

LCHs are an extremely versatile vessel, capable of moving large amounts of cargo, personnel and equipment from larger ships to shore.

A very shallow draft (two meters) allows these ships to deliver personnel and equipment to areas otherwise unreachable especially during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations (HADR).

It is an all-welded twin-screw vessel, able to trans-ship cargo and supplies from ships lying offshore to water terminals or across the beach.

Maximum cargo load is governed by the load-fuel balance and varies between 140 and 180 tons.

A typical load of 175 ton gives the LCHs a range of 1,300 nautical miles, increasing to 2,280 nautical miles for a load of 150 tons.

Up to five shipping containers with HADR supplies and equipment can also be embarked.

LCHs have a draft of two meters, length of 44.5 meters, beam of 10.1 meters and displacement of 364 tons.

It has a speed to 10 to 13 knots and a range of 3,000 nautical miles and a crew of 15.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=778375