From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 23): Singapore deports Indonesians en route to Syria—police
Singapore has deported four Indonesian men thought to be followers of a leading Islamic extremist as they allegedly tried to travel to Syria, police said Tuesday.
The four, who included a 15-year-old boy, were arrested Sunday in the city-state when immigration officials became suspicious after checking their documents, and finding one of them had previously spent time in Syria.
Authorities deported them to Batam, an Indonesian island not far from Singapore, the same day, and they have since been sent on to Jakarta.
After questioning the men, Indonesian officials “suspected that these four Indonesians were heading to Syria,” police spokesman Agus Rianto told AFP.
“We are now investigating the case to find out more.”
National police chief Badrodin Haiti said the group were thought to be followers of radical preacher Aman Abdurrahman, who is in jail for his role in forming a militant training camp, and has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) group.
There have been suspicions Abdurrahman may have helped plan last month’s gun and suicide attacks in Jakarta that left four attackers and four civilians dead.
They were claimed by IS and were the first major attack in Indonesia for seven years.
Police refused to be drawn on whether the detained men, all from the main island of Java, had been trying to join IS, which controls vast swathes of territory in Syria and Iraq.
They originally entered Singapore from Batam but left for Malaysia, where they stayed only several hours, said local police chief Helmy Santika.
They were detained as they came back into Singapore, where they planned to catch flights, he added, without giving further details.
Singaporean authorities did not immediately comment.
Indonesian police have launched a nationwide crackdown since the Jakarta attacks, rounding up dozens of alleged Islamic extremists.
Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, suffered several major bomb attacks by Islamic radicals between 2000 and 2009, but a subsequent crackdown weakened the most dangerous networks.
However, IS has provided a potent new rallying cry for Indonesian extremists, with hundreds believed to have headed to fight in the Middle East with the jihadists.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/136906/singapore-deports-indonesians-en-route-to-syria-police
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Top diplomats meet at fraught time between US, China
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 23): Top diplomats meet at fraught time between US, China
In this Feb. 12, 2016, file photo, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, right, shakes hands with China’s Froreign, Minister Wang Yi, during a meeting in Munich, Germany, before the Munich Security Conference. The top diplomats of the U.S. and China meet Feb. 23, in Washington at a fraught time in relations between the two world powers. AP
The top diplomats of the U.S. and China meet Tuesday in Washington at a fraught time in relations between the two world powers.
It’s been seven weeks since North Korea conducted a nuclear test and they still haven’t agreed on how to censure Pyongyang. Also, tensions are rising in the South China Sea after Beijing deployed anti-aircraft missiles on a disputed island.
Secretary of State John Kerry and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi sparred over much of the same territory a month ago in Beijing. But as they sit down for more talks at the State Department, both situations have only grown more serious.
North Korea followed up its Jan. 6 underground nuclear explosion with a Feb. 7 rocket launch that was condemned by the U.N. Security Council because such rockets use technology that could be applied to ballistic missiles.
While China has joined in the international criticism, it has balked at imposing the kind of tough economic sanctions that the U.S. wants, fearing it could threaten the stability of North Korea, a neighbor and traditional ally of Beijing.
In the meantime, the U.S. has taken tougher steps of its own.
Congress passed the most stringent U.S. sanctions yet that aim to restrict North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s access to hard currency. The restrictions could hit Chinese banks and companies that do business connected to the North’s nuclear and missile programs and its human rights abuses.
President Barack Obama signed the bill into law last week.
And on the security front, the U.S. and close ally South Korea have begun talks on deploying a missile defense system that China fears could be used against it as well North Korea.
The U.S. and China are expected, eventually, to fashion a compromise over a U.N. resolution, as both sides oppose North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and the missiles to deliver them. But they appear leagues apart on the South China Sea.
Washington and Beijing have been trading accusations of “militarizing” those waters, an important thoroughfare for world trade where six Asian governments have competing territorial claims.
The accusations intensified last week following reports that China had deployed anti-aircraft missiles on Woody Island in the Paracel chain, which is occupied by China but also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.
The U.S. and its Asian allies are watching now whether China puts military assets on artificial islands it has built in the Spratly island chain, further south.
The Obama administration is under congressional pressure to step up the U.S. response. Lawmakers are expected to raise their concerns at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing Tuesday with the commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific.
State Department spokesman Mark Toner said Monday that the U.S. would continue to press China to stop its militarization in the South China China. He called for a diplomatic process to settle territorial claims peacefully.
A couple of U.S. Navy operations close to disputed land since October have already riled Beijing.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Monday that “reconnaissance” by U.S. ships and planes, not China’s actions, were responsible for stoking tensions in a region where the U.S. is not a claimant.
“The deployment of defense facilities on China’s own territory is no different from what U.S. does in Hawaii,” she said. http://globalnation.inquirer.net/136923/top-diplomats-meet-at-fraught-time-between-us-china
In this Feb. 12, 2016, file photo, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, right, shakes hands with China’s Froreign, Minister Wang Yi, during a meeting in Munich, Germany, before the Munich Security Conference. The top diplomats of the U.S. and China meet Feb. 23, in Washington at a fraught time in relations between the two world powers. AP
The top diplomats of the U.S. and China meet Tuesday in Washington at a fraught time in relations between the two world powers.
It’s been seven weeks since North Korea conducted a nuclear test and they still haven’t agreed on how to censure Pyongyang. Also, tensions are rising in the South China Sea after Beijing deployed anti-aircraft missiles on a disputed island.
Secretary of State John Kerry and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi sparred over much of the same territory a month ago in Beijing. But as they sit down for more talks at the State Department, both situations have only grown more serious.
North Korea followed up its Jan. 6 underground nuclear explosion with a Feb. 7 rocket launch that was condemned by the U.N. Security Council because such rockets use technology that could be applied to ballistic missiles.
While China has joined in the international criticism, it has balked at imposing the kind of tough economic sanctions that the U.S. wants, fearing it could threaten the stability of North Korea, a neighbor and traditional ally of Beijing.
In the meantime, the U.S. has taken tougher steps of its own.
Congress passed the most stringent U.S. sanctions yet that aim to restrict North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s access to hard currency. The restrictions could hit Chinese banks and companies that do business connected to the North’s nuclear and missile programs and its human rights abuses.
President Barack Obama signed the bill into law last week.
And on the security front, the U.S. and close ally South Korea have begun talks on deploying a missile defense system that China fears could be used against it as well North Korea.
The U.S. and China are expected, eventually, to fashion a compromise over a U.N. resolution, as both sides oppose North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and the missiles to deliver them. But they appear leagues apart on the South China Sea.
Washington and Beijing have been trading accusations of “militarizing” those waters, an important thoroughfare for world trade where six Asian governments have competing territorial claims.
The accusations intensified last week following reports that China had deployed anti-aircraft missiles on Woody Island in the Paracel chain, which is occupied by China but also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.
The U.S. and its Asian allies are watching now whether China puts military assets on artificial islands it has built in the Spratly island chain, further south.
The Obama administration is under congressional pressure to step up the U.S. response. Lawmakers are expected to raise their concerns at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing Tuesday with the commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific.
State Department spokesman Mark Toner said Monday that the U.S. would continue to press China to stop its militarization in the South China China. He called for a diplomatic process to settle territorial claims peacefully.
A couple of U.S. Navy operations close to disputed land since October have already riled Beijing.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Monday that “reconnaissance” by U.S. ships and planes, not China’s actions, were responsible for stoking tensions in a region where the U.S. is not a claimant.
“The deployment of defense facilities on China’s own territory is no different from what U.S. does in Hawaii,” she said. http://globalnation.inquirer.net/136923/top-diplomats-meet-at-fraught-time-between-us-china
‘NPA hit squad leader’ shot dead by soldiers in Davao del Norte
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 23): ‘NPA hit squad leader’ shot dead by soldiers in Davao del Norte
TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte – The military said it killed an alleged leader of a communist hit squad blamed for the murder of government troops and civilians, during a brief clash in San Fernando, Bukidnon, on Tuesday.
Capt. Bob Tamula, spokesperson for the Philippine Army’s 68th Infantry Battalion based in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, said a rebel, identified as Bugsong, was shot dead by soldiers as he attempted to assassinate one of the troops in Purok (Community) 9, Kalagangan village around 10:30 a.m.
A peace and development team from 68th IB’s Bravo Company was in the area when two motorcycles with four people onboard passed by, and one of those onboard fired at the soldiers using a handgun, prompting them to retaliate, said Tamula.
“One of the suspects identified later as alias Bugsong was hit and he fell to the ground while his companions fled,” the Army official told Philippine Daily Inquirer by mobile phone.
Tamula said Bugsong was the leader of Special Partisan Unit (SPARU), a hit squad of Guerrilla Front 55 of the New People’s Army Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), which operated in the hinterlands of Bukidnon and Davao del Norte provinces.
No one from the government side was hurt, the Army official said. He said the group has been tagged as behind the killing of a number of soldiers, militiamen and even civilians in San Fernando and Talaingod areas.
Tamula said the body of the slain rebel was handed over to the local government of San Fernando for burial. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/767826/npa-hit-squad-leader-shot-dead-by-soldiers-in-davao-del-norte
TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte – The military said it killed an alleged leader of a communist hit squad blamed for the murder of government troops and civilians, during a brief clash in San Fernando, Bukidnon, on Tuesday.
Capt. Bob Tamula, spokesperson for the Philippine Army’s 68th Infantry Battalion based in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, said a rebel, identified as Bugsong, was shot dead by soldiers as he attempted to assassinate one of the troops in Purok (Community) 9, Kalagangan village around 10:30 a.m.
A peace and development team from 68th IB’s Bravo Company was in the area when two motorcycles with four people onboard passed by, and one of those onboard fired at the soldiers using a handgun, prompting them to retaliate, said Tamula.
“One of the suspects identified later as alias Bugsong was hit and he fell to the ground while his companions fled,” the Army official told Philippine Daily Inquirer by mobile phone.
Tamula said Bugsong was the leader of Special Partisan Unit (SPARU), a hit squad of Guerrilla Front 55 of the New People’s Army Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), which operated in the hinterlands of Bukidnon and Davao del Norte provinces.
No one from the government side was hurt, the Army official said. He said the group has been tagged as behind the killing of a number of soldiers, militiamen and even civilians in San Fernando and Talaingod areas.
Tamula said the body of the slain rebel was handed over to the local government of San Fernando for burial. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/767826/npa-hit-squad-leader-shot-dead-by-soldiers-in-davao-del-norte
Alleged MILF fighter, wife fall at checkpoint over drugs
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 23): Alleged MILF fighter, wife fall at checkpoint over drugs
AN ALLEGED member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and his pregnant wife were arrested after shabu was allegedly found in their possession during a checkpoint in Barangay Sirawan, Toril at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.
The checkpoint was conducted by personnel of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Toril police and soldiers under the Task Force Davao.
Meanwhile, their three children ages 14 ,9 and 5 were turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development while waiting for their relatives to pick them up.
Arrested were identified as Esmael Macasa, 40, and Asnihaya Macasa, 37, both residents of Balabagan in Lanao del Sur.
According to the report, they were flagged down at the checkpoint and police found 50 grams of shabu worth P450,000 hidden inside Asnihaya’s medicine box.
In an interview, Adzhar Albani, director of PDEA-XI, said the suspects were about to drop illegal drugs from Cotabato City and into Davao City.
“We have long considered him as a big time drug dealer,” he said, adding that he uses the same modus of using high-end vehicles to try to intimidate authorities.
The couple is now detained at Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office detention facility as they await the appropriate charge in violation of Sec. 5 and Sec. 11 of RA 9165 or the “Comprehensive Dangerous drugs Act of 2002.”
GPH-MILF ceasefire mechanisms to ensure Cotabato road project completion
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23): GPH-MILF ceasefire mechanisms to ensure Cotabato road project completion
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=859852
Despite security threats, the construction of a
farm-to-market road that will connect barangays from the towns of Aleosan and
Pikit in Cotabato province will push through, thanks to the firm commitment of
the joint ceasefire mechanisms of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and
the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to ensure security towards project
completion.
In November 2015, Phase 1 of the concreting of the
5-kilometer Pagangan-Tubak, Aleosan-New Valencia-Bualon-Pamalian, Pikit Road
The said project is undertaken through the Department of
Agriculture's PAMANA FY 2015 fund and implemented by the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH).
The road is expected to benefit more than 300 households
when completed. Most people in the barangays where the road will be built are
Bangsamoro and civilian members of both the MILF and the Moro National
Liberation Front (MNLF).
However, on Jan. 15, work on the project was suspended due
to extortion and security threats received by the local government of Barangay
Pagangan from Sheik Muhidin Amimbang, chief of staff of brigands Bangsamoro
Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). Amimbang sent a letter demanding for a certain
percentage of the project cost which amounted to more than half-a-million pesos
(PHP500,000.00).
When the barangay officials did not respond to the threat,
the BIFF burned a closed van owned by the DPWH-project contractor Sunstone
Construction and strafed the house of Barangay Pagangan Chairman Gregorio
Guanzon.
"We will not let any lawless group sabotage a project
for the people. The ceasefire mechanisms of the government and the MILF will
work with our security mechanisms to help ensure the security and welfare of
the workers and construction facilities in the area," said GPH
Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) Secretariat
Director Carlos Sol, Jr. during a coordination meeting hosted by the Municipal
Peace and Order Council of Aleosan earlier this month.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the ceasefire
mechanisms of the parties which include the GPH-MILF CCCH; Team Site 1 of the
International Monitoring Team - M10; Local Monitoring Team of Cotabato
province; Provincial Local Government of Cotabato Province; Municipal Local Government
of Aleosan; Barangay LGU of Pagangan, Aleosan; Representatives of the DPWH
Cotabato Province; the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); and the
Philippine National Police (PNP).
“We should be supportive [of] the development projects [by]
the Government in Mindanao ,” Sol added. Butch Malang
AFP LTC Romeo Bautista (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the
45th Infantry Battalion, 6ID, PA meanwhile, has committed military personnel to
secure the project facility and set up a temporary patrol base.
The PNP is already conducting its investigation into the
extortion issue as well as the acts of violence committed as it prepares to
file a case against the BIFF.
Participants to the meeting agreed that the security
cooperation between the GPH and MILF shall be established before the start of
the project in order to secure the equipment, personnel and others involved in
the road project implementation.
In the past, the combined efforts of the ceasefire
mechanisms under the Bangsamoro peace process have likewise been instrumental
in securing other project facilities against the threats of armed elements and
in keeping the peace on the ground.
Testament to this is the decision of the GPH and MILF
negotiating panels to renew the mandates of the International Monitoring Team
(IMT) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) in their recent meeting in Malaysia
Aside from monitoring the implementation of the cessation of
hostilities between the GPH and the MILF, the IMT also monitors the
humanitarian, rehabilitation, development and socio-economic assistance aspects
of the signed agreements, the observance of international humanitarian laws and
respect for human rights, and the verification and reporting on basic
undertaking of the Parties to protect civilians and civilian communities.
The AHJAG, on the other hand, is responsible for
coordinating, monitoring and disseminating information between the GPH and the
MILF in order to isolate and interdict all criminal
syndicates/kidnap-for-ransom groups and other criminal groups operating in
Bangsamoro communities and nearby areas.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=859852
Town official killed in Zambo Sibugay ambush
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23): Town official killed in Zambo Sibugay ambush
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=859995
The Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO) has
been ordered to conduct thorough probe over the killing of a town official in
that province.
Chief Supt. Miguel Antonio, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9)
director, issued the order to Senior Supt. Romulo Cleve Taboso, ZSPPO director,
after he received the report on the gun slay of a municipal social welfare and
development officer (SWDO).
Reynante Sardan, 46, the SWDO chief of Tungawan town, was
killed around 8:15 a.m. Monday.
Sardan was driving his motorcycle on the way to report for
work when unidentified gunmen ambushed him along the provincial road in Sitio
Beverly, Barangay Timbabawan, Tungawan town.
The Scene of Crime Operatives (SOCO) has recovered 16 empty
shells of caliber 5.56 millimeter fired from an M-16 Armalite rifle.
Antonio has ordered Taboso to look into all possible motives
and to determine whether Monday’s incident was related to previous incident of
killings in the town of Tungawan
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=859995
US-funded Kalahi-CIDSS empowers 1,232 poor communities in Eastern Visayas
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23): US-funded Kalahi-CIDSS empowers 1,232 poor communities in Eastern Visayas
United States
government-backed Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive Integrated
Delivery of Social Service (Kalahi-CIDSS) has already benefiting 215,117 poor
families in Eastern Visayas , three months
before the expiration of the project grant, designed to curb poverty.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=860039
The US
During the learning forum Monday night, DSWD Secretary
Corazon Soliman lauded villagers for their effort to complete subprojects
despite logistical hurdles and poor accessibility from trading centers.
“I was touched by stories of people that they don’t just
benefit from tangible projects, but they were also empowered through their
involvement in planning, decision-making and implementation,” Soliman said.
The DSWD reported that among the completed projects are
72.24-kilometer farm-to-market roads, 95.57-kilometer pathwalks, 169
classrooms, 3,052-meter seawall, 71 day care centers, 51 village health
centers, among others.
The project has mobilized 82,790 community volunteers with
women comprising 62 percent of the total number of participants.
Narra Jean Pacomo, resident of Poblacion 1, San
Sebastian , Samar , one of the
Kalahi-CIDDS recipient communitiy, shared that despite his physical deformity,
she was asked to take part in the construction of drainage canal and breakwater
project.
“The structure helped us feel safer during rainy days and
rough seas, but more important, our involvement to carry out these projects
empowered us,” Pacomo shared.
Marivic Añonuevo, managing director and chief executive
officer Millennium Challenge Account–Philippines (MCA-P), the MCC’s central
point of contact for compact implementation, lauded local government units and
community volunteers for the successful implementation of 1,160 subprojects in
the region.
“The past five years proved to be a fulfilling journey for
us in the MCA-P. We are proud to be part of community-driven development. Over
the past five years, the implementation was achieved not without any
challenges, notably by super typhoon Yolanda and typhoon Ruby.”
“We have proved, however, that no typhoon can shake the
strong partnership that we have established as we’re able to rehabilitate or
replace damaged projects quickly,” she added.
Kalahi-CIDSS is a community-driven development project
implemented by the DSWD. Under the project, communities and their local
government units are trained to choose, design and implement sub-projects that
address their most pressing need.
The project has total budget of PHP6.34 billion with bulk of
the funding requirement is a grant from the US
The USD120-million grant from the US
Other components are the Secondary National Road Development
Project and the Revenue Administration Reform Project. The compact project will
expire on May 2016.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=860039
PHL to raise South China Sea issues in ASEAN meet in Laos
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23): PHL to raise South China Sea issues in ASEAN meet in Laos
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=860123
The territorial disputes in the strategic South China Sea
would likely steal the spotlight in this week’s Association of South East Asian
Nations (ASEAN) ministerial meeting that would be attended by the regional
bloc’s 10 foreign ministers amid reports of China ’s
installation of anti-aircraft missiles on the disputed Woody Island
Manila, at odds with China over disputed territories in the
resource-rich South China Sea, or West Philippine Sea to the Philippines, plans
to tackle the issue at the ASEAN ministerial retreat -- an informal and casual
type of meeting where countries can speak on various issues of regional concern
-- to be held on Feb. 25 to 27 at the Laos capital of Vientiane.
The Philippine delegation led by Foreign Undersecretary
Laura del Rosario is expected to raise maritime security, including Chinese
missiles on Woody Islands , which is also jointly disputed by Vietnam and Taiwan
and located in a part of the South China Sea ,
called the Paracels.
Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, who is stepping down
as DFA Chief on March 7 due to health concerns, has appointed Laura del Rosario
to represent him in the meeting. Both officials are not related.
China, which claims the sea nearly in its entirety including
areas that overlap with Philippine territories, has objected to efforts to
bring the sea disputes to any international arena, including in ASEAN.
Although the Philippines has no claim over Woody Island, it
has maintained the position that all claimants to the resource-rich waters
should adhere to the rule of law, specifically the United Nations Convention on
the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), must not use force or intimidation and adhere to
the principles of a non-binding and non-aggression pact on the South China Sea
that was signed in 2002 by China and Southeast Asian states.
“In this meeting, we will continue to express our concern
with the developments in the South China Sea ,”
said Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose in a press briefing on Monday.
Of the 10 ASEAN members, four have rival claims with China and Taiwan
to the waters -- Philippines ,
Vietnam , Malaysia and Brunei Thailand , Singapore ,
Indonesia , Cambodia , Laos
and Myanmar
“We are expressing concern over these developments,
including the reported missile on Woody
Islands
Philippine officials will push for its maritime security
advocacy by calling for the full and effective implementation of the
Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and the early
conclusion of a legally-binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea between China
The long-simmering territorial rifts have alarmed the rival
countries as well as other Asian and western nations which fear the conflicts
could turn nasty and restrict free access to the vital waters, also coveted for
their potential oil and gas deposits and abundant fish stocks.
“It is also our priority to urge the international community
to respect the rule of law by abiding by the decision of the arbitral tribunal
at The Hague once it is released,” Jose said,
referring to Manila ’s case questioning the legality
of China
A final decision, Philippine diplomats said, is expected on
or before May.
The Philippines ,
Jose said, will also reiterate the commitments made at the ASEAN-US summit that
was hosted by US President Barack Obama in Sunnylands ,
California last week, where the leaders
expressed commitment to rules-based resolution to the South
China Sea dispute and for the full respect for legal and
diplomatic processes for the peaceful resolution of the maritime row.
The ASEAN agenda in Vientiane ,
Jose said, would also include discussions on how to effectively implement the
ASEAN community vision 2025 and the three blueprints adopted by the leaders at
the 27th ASEAN summit held in Nov. 2015 in Malaysia
In addition, the meeting will discuss “external relations
and its centrality in the evolving regional architecture, as well as exchange
views in regional and international issues of common interest and concerns,” he
added.
Another priority for Manila
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=860123
DFA explains gov't position over West Philippine Sea territoirial dispute
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 19): DFA explains gov't position over West Philippine Sea territoirial dispute
“What is ours is ours”. This is the stand of President Benigno Aquino III on theWest Philippine Sea
territorial dispute as reiterated by Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant
Secretary Charles Jose.
Jose was in Baguio City and Benguet on Feb. 17 to 18 for the Baguio leg of the nationwide advocacy campaign on the West Philippine Sea issue that includes a multi-sect oral forum at the University of the Cordilleras and two campus tours - one also in UC and one at the Benguet State University.
The advocacy campaign aims to increase public awareness and understanding on the issue.
Jose shared that one of the core issues that needs immediate resolution is China’s claim of so called “indisputable sovereignty” over nearly the entire South China Sea as represented in its nine-dash line which he pointed out is not supported by any international law.
Another issue is China’s assertive and sometimes aggressive behavior in the West Philippines Sea on its aim to claim that part of water, which has also other claimants like Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.
Explaining why the Philippines must continue to fight for our maritime rights over the West Philippine Sea, Jose that if we give up we will loss around 80 percent of our Exclusive Economic Zone which aside from a major livelihood source of many Filipinos especially the fishermen, has also mineral resources that could be vital for economic growth and improvement of the life of Filipinos.
Jose stressed that the country is pushing for peaceful settlement and the primacy of the rule of law - using diplomatic and legal way on the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.
Diplomatic means through the call for support of UN member countries and legally through a case filed at the Arbitrary Tribunal of the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas or UNCLOS, which resolution is expected to come out this April or May.
“Our story here is we have legitimate rights in the South China Sea or West Philippine as enshrined in international law but China is claiming what is ours, so we should also defend what is rightfully ours”, Jose stressed. (CCD with Liana Torres/PIA - SLU intern)
“We are here relative to our nationwide advocacy campaign that aims to increase awareness and understanding of every Filipino on the issue and we also hope that when you go home or go out of this forum, you will help us spread the word or the information about West Philippine Sea, to your family, friends and neighbors”, he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/61455871809/dfa-explains-gov-t-position-over-west-philippine-sea-territoirial-dispute-
“What is ours is ours”. This is the stand of President Benigno Aquino III on the
Jose was in Baguio City and Benguet on Feb. 17 to 18 for the Baguio leg of the nationwide advocacy campaign on the West Philippine Sea issue that includes a multi-sect oral forum at the University of the Cordilleras and two campus tours - one also in UC and one at the Benguet State University.
The advocacy campaign aims to increase public awareness and understanding on the issue.
Jose shared that one of the core issues that needs immediate resolution is China’s claim of so called “indisputable sovereignty” over nearly the entire South China Sea as represented in its nine-dash line which he pointed out is not supported by any international law.
Another issue is China’s assertive and sometimes aggressive behavior in the West Philippines Sea on its aim to claim that part of water, which has also other claimants like Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.
Explaining why the Philippines must continue to fight for our maritime rights over the West Philippine Sea, Jose that if we give up we will loss around 80 percent of our Exclusive Economic Zone which aside from a major livelihood source of many Filipinos especially the fishermen, has also mineral resources that could be vital for economic growth and improvement of the life of Filipinos.
Jose stressed that the country is pushing for peaceful settlement and the primacy of the rule of law - using diplomatic and legal way on the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.
Diplomatic means through the call for support of UN member countries and legally through a case filed at the Arbitrary Tribunal of the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas or UNCLOS, which resolution is expected to come out this April or May.
“Our story here is we have legitimate rights in the South China Sea or West Philippine as enshrined in international law but China is claiming what is ours, so we should also defend what is rightfully ours”, Jose stressed. (CCD with Liana Torres/PIA - SLU intern)
“We are here relative to our nationwide advocacy campaign that aims to increase awareness and understanding of every Filipino on the issue and we also hope that when you go home or go out of this forum, you will help us spread the word or the information about West Philippine Sea, to your family, friends and neighbors”, he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/61455871809/dfa-explains-gov-t-position-over-west-philippine-sea-territoirial-dispute-
MGen Donato is new PMA supt
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 19): MGen Donato is new PMA supt
Major General Donato B. San Juan II officially took over as the Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) last February 13, Saturday, after the testimonial parade and review for his immediate predecessor, Lt. Gen. Oscar P. Lopez, AFP, at Fort General Gregorio Del Pilar,Baguio
City
Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen. Hernando Iriberri, AFP, presided over the events which also marked Lt. Gen. Lopez's retirement from service after 38 years in the AFP.
The Cadet Corps of the Armed Forces of the Philippines gave the arrival honors to their highest officials and held a testimonial parade where they passed in review in front of the new Superintendent and his guests.
Donato, a member of the Maharlika Class of 1984, has served as Chief of the Army's Special Operations Command in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija before being appointed to his new position.
In his speech as the new PMA Superintendent, Donato said his new appointment has brought him "full circle" in his military career.
In his retirement speech, Lopez recalls the first time he had set foot in PMA and how he is grateful to have served his Alma Mater from his cadet years up to his retirement day. Moreover, he is happy and confident to leave the Academy in the capable hands of Donato. He said he is looking forward to being a full-time husband to his wife, Cecilia, and father to his two sons, Nathaniel and Rafael.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/91455785036/mgen-donato-is-new-pma-supt
Major General Donato B. San Juan II officially took over as the Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) last February 13, Saturday, after the testimonial parade and review for his immediate predecessor, Lt. Gen. Oscar P. Lopez, AFP, at Fort General Gregorio Del Pilar,
Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen. Hernando Iriberri, AFP, presided over the events which also marked Lt. Gen. Lopez's retirement from service after 38 years in the AFP.
The Cadet Corps of the Armed Forces of the Philippines gave the arrival honors to their highest officials and held a testimonial parade where they passed in review in front of the new Superintendent and his guests.
Donato, a member of the Maharlika Class of 1984, has served as Chief of the Army's Special Operations Command in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija before being appointed to his new position.
In his speech as the new PMA Superintendent, Donato said his new appointment has brought him "full circle" in his military career.
In his retirement speech, Lopez recalls the first time he had set foot in PMA and how he is grateful to have served his Alma Mater from his cadet years up to his retirement day. Moreover, he is happy and confident to leave the Academy in the capable hands of Donato. He said he is looking forward to being a full-time husband to his wife, Cecilia, and father to his two sons, Nathaniel and Rafael.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/91455785036/mgen-donato-is-new-pma-supt
Top army honcho lauds Stormtroopers for gains
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 18): Top army honcho lauds Stormtroopers for gains
The Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt General Eduardo Ano inspired army elements at the 8th Infantry Division, Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City.
The army official proudly bared that the army is gaining headway with its Bayanihan Internal Peace and Security Program (IPSP) with a number of municipalities and provinces in Eastern Visayas being declared as Insurgency-Free.
“The number of our peace and development partners keep on increasing and enemy firepower have been reduced significantly,” said Ano. As to the modernization program, he said that they have acquired Airtronic RPG-7s from the US to replace the M16s and M67 recoilless rifles.
In addition, they already have M113A2 armored personnel cariers (APCs) with modern fire control and thermal imaging equipment for greater mobility and firefighting capabilities.
Close to 60 thousand new R4 carbines have also been added to their firepower and some tactical radios, field ambulances, light utility vehicles and engineering equipment.
Ano also met with the press where he answered questions on insurgency and even peace issues in Mindanao. He also met with the ordinary soldiers to determine the issues confronting those on the ground. The general also awarded some ‘heroes’ who have bravely risked their lives to pursue the insurgents.
The top army brass highlighted the increase in salaries of the soldiers and additional benefits that give them inspiration to be more passionate in their jobs.
He also commended the Stormtroopers led by Major General Jet Velarmino for their passion in serving the people with the highest standard of honor, dedication to duty and professionalism to contain insurgents while extending humanitarian assistance during disaster and calamities. “Our people expect no less of all of us, and I know that you will further consecrate yourselves in defending democracy, and you will fight to preserve our gains,” the general concluded his message.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1221455757790/top-army-honcho-lauds-stormtroopers-for-gains
The Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt General Eduardo Ano inspired army elements at the 8th Infantry Division, Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City.
The army official proudly bared that the army is gaining headway with its Bayanihan Internal Peace and Security Program (IPSP) with a number of municipalities and provinces in Eastern Visayas being declared as Insurgency-Free.
“The number of our peace and development partners keep on increasing and enemy firepower have been reduced significantly,” said Ano. As to the modernization program, he said that they have acquired Airtronic RPG-7s from the US to replace the M16s and M67 recoilless rifles.
In addition, they already have M113A2 armored personnel cariers (APCs) with modern fire control and thermal imaging equipment for greater mobility and firefighting capabilities.
Close to 60 thousand new R4 carbines have also been added to their firepower and some tactical radios, field ambulances, light utility vehicles and engineering equipment.
Ano also met with the press where he answered questions on insurgency and even peace issues in Mindanao. He also met with the ordinary soldiers to determine the issues confronting those on the ground. The general also awarded some ‘heroes’ who have bravely risked their lives to pursue the insurgents.
The top army brass highlighted the increase in salaries of the soldiers and additional benefits that give them inspiration to be more passionate in their jobs.
He also commended the Stormtroopers led by Major General Jet Velarmino for their passion in serving the people with the highest standard of honor, dedication to duty and professionalism to contain insurgents while extending humanitarian assistance during disaster and calamities. “Our people expect no less of all of us, and I know that you will further consecrate yourselves in defending democracy, and you will fight to preserve our gains,” the general concluded his message.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1221455757790/top-army-honcho-lauds-stormtroopers-for-gains
Tabak commander dares new 53rd IB chief to do his utmost best
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 22): Tabak commander dares new 53rd IB chief to do his utmost best
The commander of the 1st Infantry ”Tabak” Division challenged the newly-assumed commander of the 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) battalion to do his utmost best in leading the unit.
MGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos, Jr. in his message during the change of command ceremony held recently at Camp Major Cesar Sabido in Guipos town challenged Lt. Col. Virgilio Hamos, Jr., to perform better. His predecessor, Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon has accomplished outstanding achievements when he led the unit from February 12, 2014 to February 12, 2016.
During the ceremony, Luzon received numerous accolades from provincial and municipal officials, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in recognition for his outstanding contribution making Zamboanga del Sur “peaceful and ready for development” province.
Having known Hamos as a good performer when he was assigned at the 4th Infantry Division, Cagayan de Oro City, as they worked together in the intelligence community, Barrientos is confident that he can carry out his duties and responsibilities as the new commander.
Meanwhile, Barrientos encouraged Hamos to have a clear vision and execute goals effectively, create a positive direction on what he wants to achieve, make things happen, and make a difference.
“I challenge you to make the 53rd IB a more improved battalion and ensure that we will be able to achieve a more secure society,” Barrientos urged.
“As you assume command of this unit, you have to maintain good rapport with the local chief executives,” Barrientos declared adding that stakeholders’ engagement contribute to the attainment of the objectives of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or Bayanihan which was fully implemented by his predecessor.
Hamos was proud that he was given the opportunity by the Tabak commander to lead an organization previously under the sterling leadership of Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon who has accomplished much during his 2 year stint in the unit.
“As your new commander, I vow to continue the vision and programs that my predecessor has started with much dedication,” Hamos assured.
“I will build upon your accomplishments. I will do what an officer must do, that is, to accomplish the mission. To the men and women of the 53rd IB, I offer you my full commitment to serve. I will work with you, struggle with you, and fight with you,” Hamos concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371456146963/tabak-commander-dares-new-53rd-ib-chief-to-do-his-utmost-best-
The commander of the 1st Infantry ”Tabak” Division challenged the newly-assumed commander of the 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) battalion to do his utmost best in leading the unit.
MGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos, Jr. in his message during the change of command ceremony held recently at Camp Major Cesar Sabido in Guipos town challenged Lt. Col. Virgilio Hamos, Jr., to perform better. His predecessor, Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon has accomplished outstanding achievements when he led the unit from February 12, 2014 to February 12, 2016.
During the ceremony, Luzon received numerous accolades from provincial and municipal officials, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in recognition for his outstanding contribution making Zamboanga del Sur “peaceful and ready for development” province.
Having known Hamos as a good performer when he was assigned at the 4th Infantry Division, Cagayan de Oro City, as they worked together in the intelligence community, Barrientos is confident that he can carry out his duties and responsibilities as the new commander.
Meanwhile, Barrientos encouraged Hamos to have a clear vision and execute goals effectively, create a positive direction on what he wants to achieve, make things happen, and make a difference.
“I challenge you to make the 53rd IB a more improved battalion and ensure that we will be able to achieve a more secure society,” Barrientos urged.
“As you assume command of this unit, you have to maintain good rapport with the local chief executives,” Barrientos declared adding that stakeholders’ engagement contribute to the attainment of the objectives of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or Bayanihan which was fully implemented by his predecessor.
Hamos was proud that he was given the opportunity by the Tabak commander to lead an organization previously under the sterling leadership of Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon who has accomplished much during his 2 year stint in the unit.
“As your new commander, I vow to continue the vision and programs that my predecessor has started with much dedication,” Hamos assured.
“I will build upon your accomplishments. I will do what an officer must do, that is, to accomplish the mission. To the men and women of the 53rd IB, I offer you my full commitment to serve. I will work with you, struggle with you, and fight with you,” Hamos concluded.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371456146963/tabak-commander-dares-new-53rd-ib-chief-to-do-his-utmost-best-
Feature: Army’s ‘Peacebook’ Mission—sowing seeds of peace, caring communities
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 22): Feature: Army’s ‘Peacebook’ Mission—sowing seeds of peace, caring communities
In the past, fine soldiery means firing the guns of war, making body counts of enemies who fell in combat, and recovering enemies’ firearms but today, the peacebuilding and peacekeeping works done on the ground is a ‘plus’ measure of a soldier’s success.
Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, Commanding Officer of the army’s 8th Infantry Battalion said this peacebuilding is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan.
In Impasugong town in Bukidnon, the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) recently launched its “Peacebook Project” and delivered heaps of books for Ulayanon Elementary School in Barangay Kalabugao and Bulonay Elementary School in Barangay Bulonay through Mayor Anthony A. Uy and Schools District Supervisor of Impasugong Dr. Ramilito P. Paloma during the Municipal Peace and Order Council meeting.
“The project aims to promote good moral values and cast the idea of violence in the minds of young generations especially in identified conflict-affected areas because these children’s books portray many of life’s lessons on the value of love and peace,” Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
This is amidst the recent issues appearing limelight of traditional and social media on the alleged communist-run schools in the different hinterlands in Mindanao, which “radicalize” the minds of children and inculcate violence and armed revolution as a way towards achieving peace.
He said, the books, donated by Asia Foundation will be the tipping point for promoting a culture of reading amongst the schoolchildren of Kalabugao and Bulonay villages.
Building peace
The 8th Infantry Battalion continuously invested in its efforts on ‘Bayanihan Team Activities’, which is centered at peace building and conflict mitigation in communities that are most affected by insurgency.
The year 2015 has been significantly a peaceful year in Impasugong town, which can be attributed to the deployment of battalion’s Bayanihan Teams back in 2014 that helped facilitate the delivery of basic services to communities and opened up developmental projects such as road concreting project of Damay-Kalabugao road, and the 30-km road concreting project implemented through the PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) program.
As part of its post ‘Bayanihan Team Activities’, the “Peacebook Project” exemplify the battalion’s commitment to free the community, especially the children and the minors, from exploitations of leftist groups and the New Peoples Army that only promote violence as a means of solving local issues.
Caring communities
The army’s 8th IB has increased cooperation since it acknowledged the contribution of each civil society organization, government agency—and even opens up space for the involvement of the community.
“We consider our schools as the second home for our children and therefore, these institutions are sacred. And being so, we must protect and preserve its sanctity by investing in our future and focusing our efforts in bringing goodwill to schools. We can promote peace through various activities, instead of radicalizing the minds of our schoolchildren. We must teach our children the values and very foundation of caring for one another, respecting others' rights, and embracing harmony towards creating a culture of peace in the community. Through these books, we hope to bring forth the importance of education as a long term ticket to a peaceful and better life. This project is another convergence program, which signifies our strength in unity. This is what our AFP’s campaign plan is all about; this is what IPSP Bayanihan is all about,” Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501456109503/feature-army-s-peacebook-mission-sowing-seeds-of-peace-caring-communities
In the past, fine soldiery means firing the guns of war, making body counts of enemies who fell in combat, and recovering enemies’ firearms but today, the peacebuilding and peacekeeping works done on the ground is a ‘plus’ measure of a soldier’s success.
Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, Commanding Officer of the army’s 8th Infantry Battalion said this peacebuilding is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan.
In Impasugong town in Bukidnon, the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) recently launched its “Peacebook Project” and delivered heaps of books for Ulayanon Elementary School in Barangay Kalabugao and Bulonay Elementary School in Barangay Bulonay through Mayor Anthony A. Uy and Schools District Supervisor of Impasugong Dr. Ramilito P. Paloma during the Municipal Peace and Order Council meeting.
“The project aims to promote good moral values and cast the idea of violence in the minds of young generations especially in identified conflict-affected areas because these children’s books portray many of life’s lessons on the value of love and peace,” Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
This is amidst the recent issues appearing limelight of traditional and social media on the alleged communist-run schools in the different hinterlands in Mindanao, which “radicalize” the minds of children and inculcate violence and armed revolution as a way towards achieving peace.
He said, the books, donated by Asia Foundation will be the tipping point for promoting a culture of reading amongst the schoolchildren of Kalabugao and Bulonay villages.
Building peace
The 8th Infantry Battalion continuously invested in its efforts on ‘Bayanihan Team Activities’, which is centered at peace building and conflict mitigation in communities that are most affected by insurgency.
The year 2015 has been significantly a peaceful year in Impasugong town, which can be attributed to the deployment of battalion’s Bayanihan Teams back in 2014 that helped facilitate the delivery of basic services to communities and opened up developmental projects such as road concreting project of Damay-Kalabugao road, and the 30-km road concreting project implemented through the PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) program.
As part of its post ‘Bayanihan Team Activities’, the “Peacebook Project” exemplify the battalion’s commitment to free the community, especially the children and the minors, from exploitations of leftist groups and the New Peoples Army that only promote violence as a means of solving local issues.
Caring communities
The army’s 8th IB has increased cooperation since it acknowledged the contribution of each civil society organization, government agency—and even opens up space for the involvement of the community.
“We consider our schools as the second home for our children and therefore, these institutions are sacred. And being so, we must protect and preserve its sanctity by investing in our future and focusing our efforts in bringing goodwill to schools. We can promote peace through various activities, instead of radicalizing the minds of our schoolchildren. We must teach our children the values and very foundation of caring for one another, respecting others' rights, and embracing harmony towards creating a culture of peace in the community. Through these books, we hope to bring forth the importance of education as a long term ticket to a peaceful and better life. This project is another convergence program, which signifies our strength in unity. This is what our AFP’s campaign plan is all about; this is what IPSP Bayanihan is all about,” Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501456109503/feature-army-s-peacebook-mission-sowing-seeds-of-peace-caring-communities
Joint Army-PNP forces thwart terror attacks, wound NPA rebels in Bukidnon clash
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 22): Joint Army-PNP forces thwart terror attacks, wound NPA rebels in Bukidnon clash
The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8thIB) on Friday thwarted the New Peoples Army’s (NPA) bombing attempt at the roadside where workers are toiling for the government’s road-concreting project at Brgy. Iba, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
In a spot report, at around 1:30 p.m, February 19, the government troops encountered eight armed men believed to be NPA bandits coming from SDG Dario of Section Committee 89 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee under Noel Gabute alias CESAR.
The fire fight lasted for about an hour until the communist rebels fled and scampered to different directions bringing along with them their wounded comrades showing globs of blood splotched along their escape routes.
Casualties on the rebels’ side are still being determined while government troops stayed unharmed during the clash.
Recovered from the scene were more than 100 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 300 meters detonating wire, one handheld radio, four backpacks and several subversive documents.
Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, 8thIB Commanding Officer, said this happened after the soldiers responded to residents’ reports on the presence of unidentified armed men who were seen laying an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the road where a government road-concreting project is located.
Meanwhile, troops from the Philippine National Police’s Public Safety Company of Bukidnon who are supporting the operations of the 8th Infantry Battalion also clashed with the retreating NPA rebels around 2:00 pm of that same day in KM 25 area, Brgy. Iba, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
No casualties were reported on the government side while casualties are undetermined on the rebels' side.
In his message, Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, Commanding Officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, thanked and commended the brave local residents who reported the presence of the rebels in the area.
He said the incident portrayed the value of cooperation and collaboration of the security forces and the peace-loving people of Bukidnon in an effort to thwart and preempt terroristic plans of various armed groups who resorted to banditry such as the NPA.
"We have received reports that NPA bandits will continue to resort to bombings and burning of properties in order to fuel their extortion activities. There is an on going road-concreting project of the government and we believe that these rebels were out to burn heavy equipment in the construction site. Thanks to the vigilance and to the prompt reporting of the local residents in the area, who are now aware of the ill motives of the NPA rebels, that we were given the chance to perform our job of preempting violent NPA plans such as this one,” he said.
The Philippine Army also lauded the PNP counterparts for the support in the successful operation and for always seeing to it that working together hand in hand to ensure security for communities is the best way to defeat any enemy.
“Truly, it is in the spirit of Bayanihan that we can achieve great tasks. We should always shun violence to solve our country's problems. We should collaborate with one another to address the root causes of conflict to achieve just and lasting peace," Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501456109272/joint-army-pnp-forces-thwart-terror-attacks-wound-npa-rebels-in-bukidnon-clash
The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8thIB) on Friday thwarted the New Peoples Army’s (NPA) bombing attempt at the roadside where workers are toiling for the government’s road-concreting project at Brgy. Iba, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
In a spot report, at around 1:30 p.m, February 19, the government troops encountered eight armed men believed to be NPA bandits coming from SDG Dario of Section Committee 89 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee under Noel Gabute alias CESAR.
The fire fight lasted for about an hour until the communist rebels fled and scampered to different directions bringing along with them their wounded comrades showing globs of blood splotched along their escape routes.
Casualties on the rebels’ side are still being determined while government troops stayed unharmed during the clash.
Recovered from the scene were more than 100 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 300 meters detonating wire, one handheld radio, four backpacks and several subversive documents.
Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, 8thIB Commanding Officer, said this happened after the soldiers responded to residents’ reports on the presence of unidentified armed men who were seen laying an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the road where a government road-concreting project is located.
Meanwhile, troops from the Philippine National Police’s Public Safety Company of Bukidnon who are supporting the operations of the 8th Infantry Battalion also clashed with the retreating NPA rebels around 2:00 pm of that same day in KM 25 area, Brgy. Iba, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.
No casualties were reported on the government side while casualties are undetermined on the rebels' side.
In his message, Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, Commanding Officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, thanked and commended the brave local residents who reported the presence of the rebels in the area.
He said the incident portrayed the value of cooperation and collaboration of the security forces and the peace-loving people of Bukidnon in an effort to thwart and preempt terroristic plans of various armed groups who resorted to banditry such as the NPA.
"We have received reports that NPA bandits will continue to resort to bombings and burning of properties in order to fuel their extortion activities. There is an on going road-concreting project of the government and we believe that these rebels were out to burn heavy equipment in the construction site. Thanks to the vigilance and to the prompt reporting of the local residents in the area, who are now aware of the ill motives of the NPA rebels, that we were given the chance to perform our job of preempting violent NPA plans such as this one,” he said.
The Philippine Army also lauded the PNP counterparts for the support in the successful operation and for always seeing to it that working together hand in hand to ensure security for communities is the best way to defeat any enemy.
“Truly, it is in the spirit of Bayanihan that we can achieve great tasks. We should always shun violence to solve our country's problems. We should collaborate with one another to address the root causes of conflict to achieve just and lasting peace," Lt. Col. Babilonia said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501456109272/joint-army-pnp-forces-thwart-terror-attacks-wound-npa-rebels-in-bukidnon-clash
Tagalog News: Mahigit 100 decommissioned combatants ng MILF sasailalim sa skills training program ng TESDA-ARMM
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 22): Tagalog News: Mahigit 100 decommissioned combatants ng MILF sasailalim sa skills training program ng TESDA-ARMM (Over 100 decommissioned combatants MILF undergo skills training program of TESDA-ARMM)
Sa kabila ng di-pagpasa ng panukalang Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), hinikayat ng Director for Socio-Economic ng Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) na si Hadzer Birowa ang mga kasapi ng Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) na huwag mawalan ng pag-asa na makakamit ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao.
Isa si Birowa sa mga naging panauhin sa isinagawang socio-economic launching program ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (TESDA-ARMM) para sa mga decommissioned combatants ng BIAF-MILF noong ika-18 ng Pebrero taong 2016.
“Hindi lamang tayo ang nadismaya sa di-pagsasabatas ng BBL kundi maging ang iba na nagbigay ng kanilang tiwala at suporta sa isinulong ng MILF at gobyerno,” ani Birowa.
Aniya, ang hindi pagpasa ng BBL ay hindi katapusan ng usaping pangkapayapaan.
“Kahit na di-naipasa ang BBL, magpapatuloy ang socio-economic program base sa mandato ng Annex on Normalization ng CAB,” sambit ng opisyal.
Dagdag pa niya, ayaw ng ibang ahensiya ng gobyerno tulad ng TESDA at ng pamunuan ng MILF na bigyan kayo ng tulong na hindi niyo gusto o kaya’y bigyan kayo ng skills training na hindi angkop sa inyong kagustuhan.
Ang 133 na magsasanay ay kabilang sa 145 decommissioned combatants ng MILF na taus-pusong ibinaba ang kani-kanilang armas noong Hunyo 16, 2015 sa ginawang “Ceremonial Turnover of Weapons and Decommissioning of the MILF Combatants” na ginanap sa Old Capitol, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao na pinangunahan ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III.
Ang nasabing bilang lamang ang kumuha ng libreng kurso at pagsasanay na inihahandog ng TESDA-ARMM.
Apatnapu’t-isa sa kanila ang kumuha ng driving, carpentry (25), motorcycle/small engine mechanic (23), bread and pastry production (13), dressmaking/tailoring (9), cookery/food processing (4), tig dalawa (2) naman para sa kursong automotive servicing at entrepreneurship training, at tig pito (7) sa kursong welding at electrical installation and maintenance.
Tatanggap ng P206.00 na halaga kada araw ang mga magsasanay kasama na rito ang kanilang pagkain.
Isasagawa ang mga pagsasanay sa Regional Manpower Development Center (RMDC) ng TESDA-ARMM sa Barangay Rebuken, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1661455864730/tagalog-news-mahigit-100-decommissioned-combatants-ng-milf-sasailalim-sa-skills-training-program-ng-tesda-armm
Sa kabila ng di-pagpasa ng panukalang Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), hinikayat ng Director for Socio-Economic ng Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) na si Hadzer Birowa ang mga kasapi ng Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) na huwag mawalan ng pag-asa na makakamit ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao.
Isa si Birowa sa mga naging panauhin sa isinagawang socio-economic launching program ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (TESDA-ARMM) para sa mga decommissioned combatants ng BIAF-MILF noong ika-18 ng Pebrero taong 2016.
“Hindi lamang tayo ang nadismaya sa di-pagsasabatas ng BBL kundi maging ang iba na nagbigay ng kanilang tiwala at suporta sa isinulong ng MILF at gobyerno,” ani Birowa.
Aniya, ang hindi pagpasa ng BBL ay hindi katapusan ng usaping pangkapayapaan.
“Kahit na di-naipasa ang BBL, magpapatuloy ang socio-economic program base sa mandato ng Annex on Normalization ng CAB,” sambit ng opisyal.
Dagdag pa niya, ayaw ng ibang ahensiya ng gobyerno tulad ng TESDA at ng pamunuan ng MILF na bigyan kayo ng tulong na hindi niyo gusto o kaya’y bigyan kayo ng skills training na hindi angkop sa inyong kagustuhan.
Ang 133 na magsasanay ay kabilang sa 145 decommissioned combatants ng MILF na taus-pusong ibinaba ang kani-kanilang armas noong Hunyo 16, 2015 sa ginawang “Ceremonial Turnover of Weapons and Decommissioning of the MILF Combatants” na ginanap sa Old Capitol, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao na pinangunahan ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III.
Ang nasabing bilang lamang ang kumuha ng libreng kurso at pagsasanay na inihahandog ng TESDA-ARMM.
Apatnapu’t-isa sa kanila ang kumuha ng driving, carpentry (25), motorcycle/small engine mechanic (23), bread and pastry production (13), dressmaking/tailoring (9), cookery/food processing (4), tig dalawa (2) naman para sa kursong automotive servicing at entrepreneurship training, at tig pito (7) sa kursong welding at electrical installation and maintenance.
Tatanggap ng P206.00 na halaga kada araw ang mga magsasanay kasama na rito ang kanilang pagkain.
Isasagawa ang mga pagsasanay sa Regional Manpower Development Center (RMDC) ng TESDA-ARMM sa Barangay Rebuken, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1661455864730/tagalog-news-mahigit-100-decommissioned-combatants-ng-milf-sasailalim-sa-skills-training-program-ng-tesda-armm
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