MILF: GPH-MILF JPST members culminate 10-Day Training

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 7): GPH-MILF JPST members culminate 10-Day Training



The One Hundred Fifty (150) members of the 1st Batch- GPH-MILF Joint Peace and security Team (JPST). At the podium is Mohammad Nasif, Co-Chair, JNC-MILF (Luwaran photo)

About One Hundred Fifty (150) members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF), Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that comprised the 1st Batch of Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) culminated their joint training in a simple  ceremony on December 6, 2015 at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol at Simuay, Sultan Kudadart, Maguindanao.

Prominent personalities and representatives from the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)-Joint Normalization Committee, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and PNP, the International Monitoring Team (IMT), the United Nations Development Fund (UNDP), United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Swiss Foundation for Mine Action, the International Decommissioning Body (IDB), the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines, and Maguindanao province attended the ceremony.

It can be recalled that on November 24, Seventy five (75) members of the MILF-BIAF that comprised the 1st Batch of the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) from the Moro front received briefing in preparation for their training held at the BIAF General Headquarters in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. 

No less than MILF Peace Panel chair and also chair of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Mohagher Iqbal, headed the briefing, joined by Chief of Staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) Sammy Al Mansor, Joint Normalization Committee Head for MILF Mohammad Nasif, Toks Ebrahim, OIC Co-Chair of JPST-MILF and Butch Malang, OIC-Chair of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) of the MILF.

JPST is one of the Transitional Components of Normalization identified as operating units composed of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the MILF’s BIAF. As one of the mechanisms, stated in the Annex on Normalization, JPST shall work for the maintenance of peace and order and the stability of the areas mutually identified by the GPH and the MILF.

In his opening remarks, Toks Ebrahim said, “You now have the reason to be happy because you were able to reap the fruits of your sacrifice. This kind of training is a great achievement and that, this achievement shall serve as a special tool and weapon in working for peace”.

“By this time, I am sure, we have shared ideas, knowledge and concepts that are important guide in the promotion of peace and development in Mindanao or Bangsamoro Homeland”, Ebrahim also said.

Ustadz Norul-am Abdullah, Chair of Committee on Da’wah and Masajid Affairs, who gave ‘Words of Wisdom’ said “Be cautious, never go along with deceivers or those who are on the wrong path that spreads the wrong concept on the value of peace. This is a historical event where we adhere to the peace process. You graduates serve as role models for the youth and the next generation. We must promote peace”.

Uz. Abdullah also mentioned the true meaning of Islam. He said that Islam is derived from the word ‘salaam’, which means “Peace”. As-Salaam, he said, is one of the attributes of Allah Subhanaahu Wataala.

P/ Senior Superintendent Greg Soliba, GPH-JPST Training Director and Oshama in Ali, MILF- Training Director, presented their respective graduates. They were confirmed by Major General Leo Cresente Ferrer for the GPH, and Mohammad Nasif, Co-Chair, JNC-MILF.  

USec. Zenonida F. Brosas, Co-Chair of JNC-GHP was supposedly to confirm the graduates for the GPH but was not able to do so due to conflict of schedule. 

Nasif, in his message said, “Let us look at the effects of the peace process. In our visits to various AFP and PNP outposts and checkpoints, we passed by peaceful communities. They have positive perceptions of the peace process. We went to Lanao, going around Mindanao to explain the advantage of the peace process. We, therefore ask all parties, the AFP, PNP and the BIAF to help each other so that we can achieve and live in peace”. He then congratulated the two training directors for the job well done.

Major General Ferrer congratulated the graduates for completing their 10-day training as members of the Joint Peace and Security Team. He urged them “to continue learning, and never stop from here, instead you must move forward in accordance with the peace process”.  

BrigGen. Glen Macasero, GPH-JPST member and Chair of the GPH-CCCH told the graduates in his message to be thankful and proud that they were chosen. He asked them to internalize their task and to be aware of the situation in the area, the stakeholders, whom and what problem to be addressed of, if possible. He also urged them to know the culture in the area, to establish network, coordinate, and to communicate.

He quoted Filipino Hero, Antonio Luna who said in his bio-epic film starred by John Arcilla, “It’s not a joke neither easy to unite a divided people”.

He reminded the JPST graduates on why and how they can perform their job.

Those who graced the program were Director Carlos T. Sol, Member of JPSC-GPH and Head of the combined Secretariat, Jun Mantawil of the MILF Peace Panel General Secretariat, Tony Fish of Swiss Foundation for Mine Action, Fred Lubang of Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines, Titon Mitra of UNDP, Rebecca Pankhurst of UNICEF, PSupt. Jaime Mojica, OIC Regional Operations and Plans Division as representative of PChief Supt. Ronald R. Estilles of PRO ARMM, and Col. Ralph Raul Sespene, Asst. Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operation, OG7, who represented MGen. Edmundo R. Pangilinan, Division Commander of the 6th Infantry Division. 

Others who attended the ceremony were 1st Admiral Dato Khairudin Mohammad Arif and Mr. Martogi Harahap (Media Officer for Indonesia), who represented MGen. Dato Sheik Mokhsin Bin Sheik Hasan of the International Monitoring Team (IMT), Ms. Inger Grete Staalesen, representative of William J. Hovland of the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), Engr. Abdulwahab Tunga, Prov’l. Administrative Officer and Abdulracman Asim, Prov’l Engineer, as representatives of  Maguindanao Prov’l. Governor Esmael Mangudadatu, and representatives from the Department of Health Sitti Hairan Pagayao, Shareen Acmad, Mirkhan Bakil and Alladin Dayaan.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/719-gph-milf-jpst-members-culminate-10-day-training

MILF: “We oppose BL-BAR, pass the original BBL”: Moro youth to lawmakers

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 7): “We oppose BL-BAR, pass the original BBL”: Moro youth to lawmakers 



Around 300 Moro students and youth leaders from Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato appealed to the members of House of Representatives and Senate to pass the original version of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and expressed their strong opposition to the Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BL BAR).

The young Moro leaders gathered in Bangsamoro Youth Peace Forum with the theme: Unity and Solidarity towards Peace, Justice and Development on November 28, 2015 at Datu Ibrahim Paglas Memorial College, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao.

“BL BAR massacres our hope and future life because it denies our democratic rights to live well. It is not the answer to what we are hoping for,” said the youth leaders asserting that the basic law for the Bangsamoro must be “compliant” with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB),  the peace truce signed by the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

BL BAR is the diluted version of the BBL being proposed as an alternate to draft law.

“Due to decades of war in Mindanao, we became the victims of endless hostilities. We have been chaotic, hopeless, emotionally and psychologically comatose,” they said.

The youth leaders related that the conflict in Mindanao has taken the lives of their fellow youth and “some had even lost their parents.”

“Eternal armed conflict affects our education and future career in which our great contribution in building better nation hampers.”

The Moro youth leaders said they have seen the light of hope when the CAB was signed and the BBL was drafted.

They ended their appeal stating, “We want peace! We want better life! Pass the BBL now!”

BBL is a legal measure that should be passed by Congress to pave way for the establishment of autonomous political entity called Bangsamoro.

The peace forum was organized by Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute Inc.(KPI) in partnership with Muslim Youth Brotherhood (MYB) – Maguindanao Provincial Chapter with active participation of Datu Ibrahim Paglas Memorial College.

1.Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute Inc.;

2.Muslim Youth Brotherhood of Maguindanao,  Provincial Chapter;

3.Datu Ibrahim Paglas Memorial College Faculty and Students ;

4.North Cotabato Development Services Association;

5.Muslim Student Organization;

6.Action Youth Advocate Group;

7.Maguindanao Youth Network;

8.Datu Paglas Youth Religious Sector; 

9.Ikhwanusssalam of Rema Academy 

10.Students of Datu Ibrahim Paglas Memorial College;

11.Students of Regional Madrasah Graduate Academy;

12.Students of Eastern Kutawato Islamic Institute Inc.;

13.Students of Eastern Kutawato College Inc.;

14.Students of  Datu Paglas National High School;

15.Students of Campo National High School;

16.Students of Bai Tembabay National High School;

17.Students of Pandag National High School;

18.Students of Manindolo National High School;

19.Students of Buluan National High School;

20.Students of Nahda Central Academy;

21.Students of Cotabato City State Polytechnic Colleges(CCSPC) , Cotabato City;

22.Students of University of Southern Mindanao (USM), Kabacan, North Cotabato;

23.Arabic Students of Mahad Datu Paglas, Maguindanao

24.Arabic Students of Mahad Sarque, Al Islamie, Buluan, Maguindanao:

25.Arabic Students of Madrasat Natutungan Al-Arabi Al Islamie, Natutungan Matalam;

26.Arabic Studensts of Mahad Kabacan Al Arabie Al Islamie, North Cot.;

27.Arabic Students of Mahad Hidaya Al-Arabie Al-Islamie, Central Malamote, Matalam;

28.Arabic Students of Mahad Darol WekhdaAl-Arabie Al Islamie Pedtad Kabacan, North Cot;

29.Arabic Students of Mahad Patadon Al-Arabie Al-Islamie, North Cotabato;

30.Arabic Students of Mahad Mamalangkap Al-Arabie Al-IslamieDunguan Mlang, North Cot;

31.Arabic Students of Mahad Pananggulon Gaunan Mlang, North Cotabato;

32.Arabic Student of Mahad Mindanao Al Arbie Alslamie, Pikit, N. Cotabato.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/718-we-oppose-bl-bar-pass-the-original-bbl-moro-youth-to-lawmakers

MILF infighting displaces families in Maguindanao coastal villages

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8): MILF infighting displaces families in Maguindanao coastal villages

At least 90 Moro families have been displaced by an ongoing armed conflict involving members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the coastal villages of Datu Blah Sinsuat town in Maguindanao, the town mayor said.

Datu Blah Mayor Marshal Sinsuat said involved in the fighting were leaders and members of two base commands of the MILF in the villages of Meti and Sinapak, both coastal barangays.

“Our municipal social welfare workers are now attending to the needs of the displaced families,” Sinsuat said, adding that affected residents are temporarily housed in the barangay hall of two affected villages.

He said the warring members of the MILF are disputing territorial issues in the two villages.

Without naming the leaders of two warring MILF factions, Sinsuat said both sides have agreed to a peaceful settlement of misunderstanding and ensure the safety of civilians.

“We already settled this problem in a peaceful dialogue last November, but sadly they are at it again,” Sinsuat said.

“It was a long standing ‘rido’ (family feud) involving leaders of two warring MILF groups,” he added.

“Our town DSWD office workers are now attending to the needs of affected families,” the mayor said.

He said his office has sought the intervention of the government and MILF ceasefire panels “so the civilians can return to their respective communities.”

He also appealed to warring MILF leaders, who happened to be related by blood, to disengage and allow peaceful solution of their misunderstanding.

“We asked both of you to disengage and settle your differences diplomatically,” Sinsuat told warring MILF fighters through Radio Station DXMS-AM.

“Have pity on the civilians who have been evicted from their communities where their livelihood is located,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=835474

ARMM distributes PHP11.3-M educational, livelihood aid to students, coops

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8): ARMM distributes PHP11.3-M educational, livelihood aid to students, (MNLF) coops

To improve educational system and empower students, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has distributed PHP11.3 million worth of educational and livelihood assistance to students and cooperatives in the region, officials on Tuesday said.

The aid extended is under the government’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program of the region.

Dong Anayatin, PAMANA-ARMM program manager, said about 759 students received educational assistance amounting to PHP10,000 each for college students and PHP5,000 each for high school students. The beneficiaries are children, or immediate relatives, of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members in Maguindanao and Sulu.

According to Anayatin, the educational assistance was from the region's 2014 budget. He said it was a one-time grant and the beneficiaries were extensively chosen and recommendations of MNLF cooperative chairpersons were considered.

Under the program, Anayatin said ARMM is aiming to help 3,200 college students and 2,073 high school students across the region. Other beneficiaries will get their educational assistance before the year ens.

One of the beneficiary, Najma Dimaporo, 17, a resident of Matanog, Maguindanao, said that she will use the educational assistance she received for her school fees.

"I will use the assistance for my enrollment. Because of this, we can save money and I can help my family,” she told reporters.

"I hope the ARMM government continue this initiative to help more people,” said Dimaporo who is a first year student of the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College taking Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English.

Anayatin said the livelihood assistance was composed of 11 units of six-wheeler hauler trucks. These were given to three cooperatives in Maguindanao and eight cooperatives in Sulu.

Anayatin identified the cooperative-beneficiaries as MNLF Agribusiness Cooperative, Ganasi Kandalamdinga Marketing Cooperative, and Malangit MNLF Farmers Marketing Cooperative in Maguindanao; and Buhanginan Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative, Sahabat Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative, Kausawan Agricultural Producers Cooperative, Shareif Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative, Buansa Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative, Suba-Suba Producers Cooperative, Bandang Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative, and Darayan Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative in Sulu.

Datu Halun Amilussin, 64, representative of Buansa Agri-Marine Producers Cooperative in Indanan, Sulu, said the hauler-truck his group received will help uplift the lives of the people in his barangay.

"We will use the truck to help small businesses in our barangay. Most of us are jobless and this will help not only our cooperative but also our barangay,” said Datu Halun.

Datu Halun is a father of eight and has been an MNLF member for decades. He thanked ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman for this initiative. "We would like to thank Governor Hataman for this project. We have waited long and this is the first time that we receive such project since the creation of our cooperative in 2011,” he said.

The livelihood assistance was implemented by the region’s Agriculture and Fisheries Department (DAF-ARMM). He said that it is a continuing activity of partner agencies in the region.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman with Anayatin, and Atty. Laisa Alamia, ARMM executive secretary and concurrent officer-in-charge of DAF-ARMM, led the distribution of educational and livelihood assistance on December 3 at this city’s ARMM compound.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=835480

NPAs kill 2 vendors, 2 farmers suspected of being military assets in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8): NPAs kill 2 vendors, 2 farmers suspected of being military assets in Masbate

Villagers found the lifeless bodies of two doormat vendors peppered with bullets on Monday morning at Sitio Tulay, Barangay Calumpang, Placer, Masbate, a police report said.

Police said New People's Army rebels gunned down the two victims, identified as Tito Laurio and Rizaldy Espares, both doormat vendors and residents of Kinamaligan, Masbate City.

The report said Laurio and Espares' lifeless bodies were found at about 8 a.m. full of gunshot wounds and sprawled on the ground, with their hands tied.

It said the rebels had suspected the two doormat vendors as military and police assets in the guise of selling their products.

Police recovered the motorcycle being used by the two victims but owned by Vilma Absalom of Barangay Nursery, Masbate City and a sister-in-law of the victim.

Another police report said another group of NPA rebels shot dead two farmers subsequently in an interval of 10 minutes on Sunday morning at Sitio Potyong, Barangay Maglambong, Monreal, Masbate.

The report identified the first victim as Felipe Flores, who was shot on his head and body. Flores was busy tending to his carabao at about 11:10 a.m. when five armed men arrived and shot him.

After the shooting Flores, the dissidents went to a house, about 300 meters from Flores' residence, where the remains of dead person lay in estate, and found their second victim, Alberto Rosas, who was in the wake.

Then the rebels gunned down Rosas after about 10 minutes.

They even told the villagers that the two were suspected military and police assets in their village.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=835343

Nuclear terrorism a real threat, says IAEA Chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): Nuclear terrorism a real threat, says IAEA Chief

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Yukiya Amano on Monday warned of the serious threats of nuclear terrorism and urged all nations, including the Philippines, to prepare for any eventuality.

“Nuclear terrorism is a real threat and we need to get prepared and protect ourselves,” said Amano, who is currently in Manila for the 3rd Philippine Nuclear Congress.

Amano feared that the proliferation of nuclear materials may easily be accessed by terrorist groups.

“Nuclear materials exist everywhere in the world and if nuclear materials fall into the hands of terrorist, that can be used for dirty bombs. Dirty bombs means nuclear material and explosive and they can detonate it,” he told journalists at a press conference at the Department of Foreign Affairs.

“And if that happens in a big city that can cause panic,” he added.

While the IAEA is ready to assist the Philippines in combating the threat, Amano said it is the responsibility of each State to ensure the protection of its people against the global scourge.

The IAEA, for example, can establish guidance on how to address this issue by conducting training of experts, the use of equipment, and handling of materials.

“We need to analyze and understand the threat and establish a response,” he said.

The IAEA through the years has been assisting countries, especially on occasions when they have to host major international gatherings or summits, such as the Olympics, or even in the recently concluded Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Manila last November.

“The IAEA is functioning as a global platform to strengthen nuclear security and we assist the countries,” Amano said, but “the final responsibility is on each state.”

Dr. Alumanda Dela Rosa, Director of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, said the PNRI, along with the military and police, underwent training by the IAEA and the US Department of Energy on the use of modern equipment to detect nuclear and radiological materials for the APEC summit.

During the APEC week from November 13 to 19, Philippine authorities did rigorous screening of hotels, the venues of the meeting and routes used by delegations and attending leaders, which included US President Barack Obama.

“We are happy to report that no radioactive materials were detected in all those places so we are very pleased with the result,” Dela Rosa said.

The Philippine government, Philippine Ambassador to Vienna Zeneida Angara Collinson said, where the IAEA is headquartered, is also taking measures on the matter of nuclear security.

Part of this commitment is President Benigno S. Aquino III’s signing in June of a crucial amendment to a 2005 United Nations Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials.

“We understand that is now in the Senate for concurrence and that will be the last step,” Collinson said.

The IAEA will need 11 more countries to ratify the accord should the Philippines fully accedes to the UN treaty, she said.

“Hopefully by next year this important amendment will come to force,” Collinson said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=835364

Soldier hurt, five NPA rebels arrested in separate incidents

From the Mindanao Times (Dec 7): Soldier hurt, five NPA rebels arrested in separate incidents

A SOLDIER was wounded following the clash between government troops and the NPAs at New Cebu, Barangay Magcagong, Maragusan, Compostela Valley at 12 noon on Saturday.

Capt .Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division spokesperon, said soldiers from Bravo Company of  28IB were checking reports about the communist rebels laying landmines at Magcagong before they were attacked.

That  triggered a 20-minute firefight.  The NPAs then scampered to different directions.

Left behind by the rebels were the improvised explosive device, a 30-meter wire and several spent shells of high powered firearms.

Maj. Gen Rafael Valencia, 10th ID commander, commended the soldiers for foiling the NPA’s plan.

“Our campaign against the NPA rebels who kept on amassing money and terrorizing the people of Maragusan will be relentless,” said Valencia.

Meanwhile, five NPA members were arrested while they were laying improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at Sitio Maganting, Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Compostela Valley last Friday  afternoon.

Soldiers of Bravo Company under the 46th Infantry Battalion chanced upon the five suspects identified  as Glen Cañete, Jutam Calig-unan, Arnel Angkeles, Jonel Calig-unan and Eric Beloy  as they were about to plant the explosives.

Later, they were turned over to the Pantukan Police Station for investigation and filing of appropriate charges. Taken from their possessions were five landmines.

“These NPAs terrorizing the people should be dealt with in accordance with the rule of law. Let the court of law decide their fate,” Valencia said.

http://mindanaotimes.net/soldier-hurt-five-npa-rebelsarrested-in-separate-incidents/

Rebels get brazen

From the Mindanao Times (Dec 7): Rebels get brazen

Another barangay captain attacked by NPA: army

THE BARANGAY captain of Daliaon Plantation in Toril is now in stable condition after he and his companion were  ambushed by the New People’s Army in Purok 5, Barangay Alambre at 1:10 p.m. last Saturday.

The attack came just a couple of days after Antonio R. Albaran, the village head of Barangay Lamanan, Calinan District, was gunned down believed to be by communist rebels in Sitio Quibaton, Barangay Dominga.

Generoso Bacalso was driving his Honda XRM motorcycle,  with village councilor Docris Daug as the backrider, towards Toril proper.

When they reached the area, five armed men, believed to be members of Guerilla Front 54, peppered them with bullets. They jumped off from the motorcycle but Bacalso was hit on his left palm.

Luckily, members of the Bravo Company of the 84th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Rowell Dairocas, were just a few meters away and immediately responded to the scene upon hearing the gunbursts.

The soldiers fired upon the rebels resulting to a brief clash lasting about 10 minutes that reportedly killed one rebel. They also recovered one Baby Armalite, two magazines and 33 bullets from a caliber .40 rifle.

Datu Docris escaped unscathed while Bacalso was brought to Davao Doctors Hospital.

In an interview yesterday, Col. Louie Villanueva, commander of 84th Infantry Battalion ,said that both Bacalso and Daug were the targets since they have always been pro-military.

“Even before, the barangay captain already received death threats,” he said. “This is the retaliation of the rebels because of the successive military offensives.”

Villanueva further said the incident is still related to the abduction of 11 workers of water pump system of Congressman Isidro Ungab last month. According to him, the NPAs were asking the workers about the whereabouts of Datu Docris Daug.

“There are so many sightings of the NPAs so we need to field patrols,” he said. “They NPA won’t ever leave Toril because they can easily extort money from businesses there.”

The slain Albaran was a retired colonel from the Eastern Mindanao Command.

According to the report, the victim was abducted by alleged two members of the New People’s Army identified as alias Benjack and alias Jinggoy from his house using a red motorcycle.

A military intelligence officer told TIMES that the killing was still part of the NPA’s retaliation after the death of Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago of the Pulang Bagani Command 1.

Troops of 84th Infantry Battalion, along with the Calinan Police Precinct, are now conducting an investigation into the incident.

Albaran’s body was brought to St. Peter Funeral Parlor in Calinan.

But One of the five rebels was killed as Troops were able to fire them.

http://mindanaotimes.net/rebels-get-brazen/

Armed Forces to hold first climate change summit

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 5): Armed Forces to hold first climate change summit

The first Armed Forces of the Philippines Climate Change Summit will be conducted at the AFP Theatre and Museum in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City on December 7, 2015.

The summit, themed “Strengthening the Ecosystem of Solutions on Climate Change Action,” aims to discuss the possible solutions in addressing climate change. It will be spearheaded by the Civil Relations Service (CRS) of the AFP.

Major General Joselito E. Kakilala, Civil Relations Service (CRS) Commander said: “The Philippines is considered as one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. With impacts ranging from extreme weather events and periodic inundation to droughts and food scarcity, climate change has been a constant reality. While Filipinos have yet to face impending consequences of this issue, which has emerged as a new threat that the Armed Forces of the Philippines has to deal with, Climate Change should be tackled seriously in order to prepare the organization.”

Around 1,300 participants coming from the different sectors of the society such as the government agencies, civil society organizations, and private institutions are expected to take part in the said event.

Major Michael T. Aquino, Media and Civil Affairs Group Commander CRS AFP said, “If there is one vital issue that Filipinos should tackle, it is climate change.  It is already here and we should be addressing it now for our future generations,”

In line with this, the organizers not only aspire to promote awareness and establish possible solutions, but also intend to institutionalize the roles of these sectors in addressing climate change.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines believes that a strategic, multi-stakeholder approach is the best framework to ensure that the summit achieves its goals, thus, the main aim of the event is for every Filipino citizen to be one with nature.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3001449224527/armed-forces-to-hold-first-climate-change-summit-

Military will continue upholding human rights even under new administration, says official

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 6): Military will continue upholding human rights even under new administration, says official

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue its human rights advocacy and monitoring functions even after a new president is elected in 2016, according to the head of the military’s Human Rights Office (HRO).

“Magbago man ang administrasyon, ang inyong AFP HRO ay nandito pa rin,” Jose Antonio Carlos Motril, Chief of the AFP-HRO said. “Siguradong ang AFP ay nariyan, tutuparin ang mandate niya na pangalagaan at respituhin ang karapatang-pantao.”

(AFP HRO will stay even under a new administration…Rest assured that we are here to comply with our mandate: that is, to protect and respect human rights.)

The AFP HRO was established in December 2010—or on the sixth month of President Aquino’s term—to serve as the main platform in addressing all human rights and international humanitarian law (HR/IHL) issues involving the AFP.

Earlier, in August 2010, AFP launched its HR/IHL Handbook which serves as a soldiers’ guide during the conduct of operations.

Motril also said that the military will continue to implement its internal peace and security plan dubbed “Bayanihan.”

“Isa sa mga functions ng AFP HRO ay mag monitor ng reported incidents ng human rights violations  whether ito ay na-perpetrate ng state agents–AFP, Philippine National Police (PNP), Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit, o mga non-state agents, mga armed groups na rebels,” Motril said.

(One of the functions of AFP HRO is to monitor reported incidents of human rights violations, whether these are perpetrated by state agents – AFP, PNP, CAFGU – or non-state agents, or armed rebel groups.)

He said the military keeps track of all “incidents that come our way.” These include newspapers, social media, report by victims themselves or by civil society organizations.

During last Friday’s Kapihan sa Media ng Bayan  commemorating the annual International Human Rights Day on December 10 , Motril said, “Mandato namin na pangalagaan, respetuhin, at protektahan ang karapatang-pantao ng sambayanan.”

(It is the mandate of AFP to safeguard, to respect, and to protect the rights of the citizens).

The functions of AFP HRO are the following: (1) manage programs to implement HR/IHL instruments; (2) advocacy, education, and training; (3) policy formulation and integration; (4) monitoring, causing investigation of violations; and (5) liaise with stakeholders for promotion of HR/IHL.

Kapihan sa Media ng Bayan airs live every Friday over Radyo ng Bayan DZRB 738 AM, from 10am to 11am, telecast over PTV4 from 7 pm to 8pm, and IBC 13 from 10.30 to 11.30 pm, in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency and Philippines News Agency.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3001449312657/military-will-continue-upholding-human-rights-even-under-new-administration-says-official

Shift in mindset on respect for human rights key to AFP reforms under PNoy administration

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 6): Shift in mindset on respect for human rights key to AFP reforms under PNoy administration

It was during the term of President S. Benigno Aquino III that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) took concrete steps to institutionalize respect for human rights in the military establishment, given the administration's direction of pursuing security, peace and justice under the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016.

In December 2010, the AFP established a Human Rights Office  which serves as the main platform for addressing all human rights and international humanitarian law issues involving the Armed Forces.

AFP-HRO Chief Col. Jose Antonio Carlos B. Motril said the role of the military in society is greatly influenced by policies of the national government.

“Una sa lahat, dapat maintindihan natin na ang military is an instrument of national policy. So the AFP is what we make of it,” Motril said during the Kapihan sa Media ng Bayan yesterday . “Kung ano yung AFP, binuo rin siya ng society...So yung tao, influenced din siya ng environment niya.”

(“First of all, we should understand that the military is an instrument of national policy. So the AFP is what we make of it. It is also shaped by society, and the people in the military are influenced in turn by his or her environment.)

In August 2010, the AFP launched its Human Rights/International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Handbook to serve as a soldiers’ guide in the conduct of operations. This project is one of the government’s effort to institutionalize human rights concepts as part of its overall security operations.

These measures gave a boost to implementation of existing Philippine laws safeguarding human rights such as Republic Act 9745 of the Anti-Torture Act of 2009 that act penalizes torture and other inhuman and degrading treament or punishment.

The President took his oath of office in July 2010. His father, former senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. suffered human rights abuses along with thousands of activists who opposed the military-backed martial rule of former president Ferdinand Marcos from 1972-1986.

Motril said reforms in the military, especially the soldiers’ regard for human rights, should begin with changing “how the AFP thinks and how they behave.” Thus, respect for human rights and the rule of llaw are integrated in education and training of elements of the AFP, and in the rules of engagement, and policies.

He added that this include the military’s observance of the provisions of the RA 7438 which protects the rights of a person arrested, detained or under custodial investigation.

Motril’s comments were in response to questions on the reforms the AFP had undertaken the Martial Law period in the Philippines (1972-1986), and if torture remains a tool in so-called tactical interrogation.

Kapihan sa Media ng Bayan airs live every Friday over Radyo ng Bayan DZRB 738 AM, from 10am to 11am, telecast over PTV4 from 7 pm to 8pm, and IBC 13 from 10.30 to 11.30 pm, in cooperation with the Philippine Broadcasting Service, People's Television, Philippine Information Agency and Philippines News Agency

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3001449312537/shift-in-mindset-on-respect-for-human-rights-key-to-afp-reforms-under-pnoy-administration

Tagalog news: Kapayapaan sa San Jose, isinulong sa Peace Rally

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 2): Tagalog news: Kapayapaan sa San Jose, isinulong sa Peace Rally

JOSE, Occidental Mindoro -- Idinaos kahapon sa Pilot Elementary School, bayan ng San Jose, ang isang peace rally na may temang 'Nagkakaisang Mamamayan para sa Kapayapaan'.

Ayon kay LTC Rodolfo Gesim, Commander 4IB ng Philippine Army, ang naturang aktibidad ay naglalayong buksan ang kamalayan ng mga mamamayan hinggil sa tunay na kalagayang pangkapayapaan at insurgency situation ng lalawigan. "Ang usaping pangkapayapaan ay hindi lamang trabaho ng AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) o PNP (Philippine National Police), ito po ay trabaho nating lahat. Dapat tayong magtulungan upang buwagin ang CPP- NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines - National Democratic Front)", paliwanag ni Gesim.

Naging laman ng pananalita ni Gesim ang ilang pananakot ng grupong New People's Army (NPA) gaya ng panununog ng mga construction at agriculture equipment.

Kamakailan lamang, pagpaslang si Lt. Mike Nollora, Charlie company Commandeer ng 4IB.   Si Nollora at ang kanyang mga kasamahan ay nagsasagawa ng Bayanihan o ang pagdadala ng ilang programa ng pamahalaan sa Barangay Batasan, San Jose ng sila ay tambangan ng mga NPA.  

Inilahad ni Governor Gene Mendiola na ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ay patuloy na isinusulong ang kapayapaan at kaayusan. Naniniwala ang punong lalawigan  na mahalaga ang dalawang sangkap upang magkaroon ng tuloy-tuloy na kaunlaran sa Kanlurang Mindoro.

Binigyang diin naman ni Congressman Josephine Sato na matagal ng katuwang ng AFP ang mga mamamayan ng lalawigan laban sa insurgency. Dagdag pa ng kongresista na upang magkaroon ng tunay na kapayapaan dapat magsimula ito sa bawat mamamayan.

"For peace to be truly felt by the people, it should start in our hearts and our soul (upang ang kapayapaan ay maramdaman ng mga mamamayan, dapat itong magumpisa sa puso at kaluluwa)", paliwanag ni Sato.

Naging bahagi din ng peace rally ang pagkondena sa mga problemang nakakaapekto sa kapayapaan ng bayan ng San Jose, gaya ng illegal drugs at ang iba't ibang uri ng krimen.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2351448866163/tagalog-news-kapayapaan-sa-san-jose-isinulong-sa-peace-rally

PNP, AFP to hold Human Rights Consciousness Week celebration, 67th Universal Declaration of Human Rights Anniversary in SurSur

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 4): PNP, AFP to hold Human Rights Consciousness Week celebration, 67th Universal Declaration of Human Rights Anniversary in SurSur

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) here is all geared up for the 2015 Human Rights Consciousness Week (HRCW) celebration on December 4-10 and the 67th Declaration of Human Rights Anniversary on December 10 as well.

P/SSupt. Romaldo Bayting, provincial PNP chief, confirmed receiving a memorandum from Regional Human Rights Affairs Office of the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) in Caraga.

With the respective themes “Karapatang Pantao:  Igalang, Ipagtanggol, at Isakatuparan” for the HRCW and “Our Rights, Our Freedoms, Always” for the International Human Rights Day, the provincial police chief assured that activities cited in the memo would be duly carried out.

Among the main activities indicated in the memo include the “conduct of simultaneous reading of ‘Panata sa Karapatang Pantao’ to be led by the Police Human Rights Office-designate on December 7 Monday Flag Raising Ceremony; Mass sponsorship; Lecture on Republic Act (RA) 7438 also known as Rights of Persons Under Custodial Investigation and RA 9745 or Anti-Torture Act of 2009; Distribution of Human Rights IEC materials; Media guesting and the like.

However, the memo has likewise run the instruction of putting up “display of tarpaulin at the gates/in front of respective offices/station before December 1, 2015.”

Meanwhile, Capt. Regie Go, civil military operations (CMO) officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA) whose headquarters is co-located with the Police Provincial Office (PPO), said an order to observe both events had been already issued to all units province-wide.

Besides, it was stressed that the plan was to hold the activity jointly with the PNP during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony on December 7.

Go assured to make public other activities upon finalization of all details in this regard.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741449377399/pnp-afp-to-hold-human-rights-consciousness-week-celebration-67th-universal-declaration-of-human-rights-anniversary-in-sursur

41D AFP remains steadfast to mission, bares 2015 accomplishments

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 4): 41D AFP remains steadfast to mission, bares 2015 accomplishments

To show that that they remain steadfast and committed in their mission of establishing resilient security and investment conditions,  attainment of lasting peace and stability, social progress and economic development in Caraga and Northern Mindanao, the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (4ID, AFP) bared their accomplishments for the year 2015.

4ID commander MGen. Oscar Lactao said during a press conference held in the city that the AFP together with other government agencies are continually undertaking better ways and means to accomplish their mission and that they are bringing the government closer to the people and converging everyone through the whole-of-nation approach.

The said approach coves five governance aspects which is collaborative work for local and national government agencies: (1) Security (AFP, PNP) which aims to provide services that impact on physical security/safety; (2) Governance (LGUs, DILG, NCIP) which promotes good governance in local areas; (3)  Legal (DOJ, NCIP) which aims to deliver justice to constituents; (4) Development (DPWH, DAR, DOE, TESDA, DENR, DA, DOST, DAR) which promotes and improves socio-economic standing of the communities; (5) Social Protection (DepEd, PhilHealth, DSWD, DOH) which aims to provide immediate support in health, education and social welfare.

“All of these efforts are proofs that the government is doing its share in providing development and social protection to the people especially to isolated areas,” Lactao said.

 He also bared that one of their undertakings was that out of eight provinces in their area of responsibility, four of those were already declared conflict manageable areas and ready for further developments.

“Camiguin, Dinagat Islands, Misamis Oriental and Suigao del Norte are conflict manageable areas while only four remaining provinces are undergoing normalization process,” Lactao added.

Furthermore, for the whole year, the AFP had a total record of 126 NPA captured, died during combat operation and surrendered. While 269 assorted firearms were recovered.

“We need to collectively address the culture of violence and the senseless armed struggle. For those still bearing arms, we enjoin you to come down and rejoin the mainstream of our society. And we call on all stakeholders to solve this problem and work hand in hand the Bayanihan way,” Lactao said.

Quoting the AFP IPSP “Bayanihan,” Lactao added that “Peace and security can be fully achieved through the concerted and united efforts of all stakeholders.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3021449195083/41d-afp-remains-steadfast-to-mission-bares-2015-accomplishments

200 Caraga bikers join 1st 'Bike for Health'

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 7): 200 Caraga bikers join 1st 'Bike for Health'

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Dec. 7 (PIA) -- Almost 200 bikers from different walks of life in Caraga Region participated in the 1st Fun Ride 2015 dubbed as “Bike for Health” launched by the 401st Unity Brigade, Philippine Army in cooperation with Caraga Ham Volunteers Amateur Inc (CHAMVA, INC) in Butuan City on December 5.

The activity started at dawn in which the bikers were challenged with an estimated route distance of 60 kms from Butuan City to the town of Carmen, Agusan del Norte and back.

Aside from biking, the army offered an open house to all the participants displaying its crew-served weapons, essential equipment, Simba armored personnel carrier followed by the Static Display and Demonstration of the Special Forces Team and culminated with the army’s traditional boodle fight.

“To all the participants, I am grateful to everyone for joining this event, this will be a good start of a lasting partnership in our quest for genuine peace in Caraga Region,” said 401st commander Col. Alexander Macario.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701449453145/200-caraga-bikers-join-1st-bike-for-health-