From Update.Ph (Mar 19): Philippines gives US military access to air base facing West PH Sea
The United States and the Philippines agreed Friday on use by the US military of five locations in the Southeast Asian country, including an air base on an island facing the South China Sea where Manila is involved in territorial disputes with China.
“Both sides expressed their firm opposition to the ongoing militarization of outposts in the South China Sea,” the two countries said in a joint statement released after talks between senior government officials in Washington.
The statement did not name a specific country in the context of militarization but the meeting took place as the United States steps up its criticism of China for its buildup of military equipment such as missile launchers and radars in disputed areas in the sea.
Washington and Manila “discussed their common view that the installation of new military assets on the outposts escalates tensions.”
The US and Philippine governments will hold detailed discussions on the US military’s use of the five bases on upcoming occasions such as a planned visit by US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter to the Philippines next month.
Antonio Bautista Air Base on Palawan Island near the contested Spratly Islands is among the five locations mentioned in the statement.
Washington and Manila also agreed they will urge Beijing to follow the ruling of a UN arbitral tribunal in The Hague when it hands down a decision over the legality of China’s territorial claims in the sea, according to the statement.
http://www.update.ph/2016/03/philippines-gives-us-military-access-to-air-base-facing-west-ph-sea/3381
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Focus to be free from insurgency” – Gov. Matba
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 18): “Focus to be free from insurgency” – Gov. Matba
Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba stressed during the joint memorandum of agreement (MOA) Signing on March 14 declaring Butuan City and Agusan del Norte as Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development, that the government is doing its best to give the best service to the public.
"We are glad that we have reached several remote areas to provide our services and programs. The next step and goal that we must focus on is to be free from conflicts and insurgency. There is more to be done and we will continue to work together," she said.
Parties to the MOA signing held at the Provincial Training Center were Gov. Amante-Matba of the province of Agusan del Norte, Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., Col. Alexander L. Macario of the Philippine Army, PSSupt. Ronelo D. Jaurigue of the Philippine National Police-Agusan del Norte and PSSupt. Francisco D. Dungo, Jr. of the Philippine National Police-Butuan City. Witnesses included Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, Vice Mayor Angelo J. Calo, Eastern Mindanao Command commanding general LtGen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, 4th Infantry Division deputy commaning general BGen. Paul Atal, and PNP Caraga regional director PCSupt. Rolando B. Felix.
Right after the MOA signing, a wall of commitment unveiling and signing was then conducted by the parties to the MOA, witnesses, and stakeholders including the local government chief executives, national government agencies, non-government organizations, people's organizations, church, academe and business sectors.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan confirmed the Provincial Peace and Order Council’s (PPOC) declaration of the province as “Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development Province” based on the recommendation of the Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army in view of the existing manageable security situation and since it has met the conditions of such declaration, to wit:
1. Civilian authorities take responsibility on issues of peace, security and development;
2. Security condition is conducive for business and investment to flourish;
3. Effective control of armed violence;
4. PPOCS effectively working, functioning and operational;
5. LGUs and PNP effectively addressing the local criminality problem; and
6. Security situation paves way for the entry of investors and infrastructure development projects.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701458199176/-focus-to-be-free-from-insurgency-gov-matba
Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba stressed during the joint memorandum of agreement (MOA) Signing on March 14 declaring Butuan City and Agusan del Norte as Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development, that the government is doing its best to give the best service to the public.
"We are glad that we have reached several remote areas to provide our services and programs. The next step and goal that we must focus on is to be free from conflicts and insurgency. There is more to be done and we will continue to work together," she said.
Parties to the MOA signing held at the Provincial Training Center were Gov. Amante-Matba of the province of Agusan del Norte, Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., Col. Alexander L. Macario of the Philippine Army, PSSupt. Ronelo D. Jaurigue of the Philippine National Police-Agusan del Norte and PSSupt. Francisco D. Dungo, Jr. of the Philippine National Police-Butuan City. Witnesses included Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, Vice Mayor Angelo J. Calo, Eastern Mindanao Command commanding general LtGen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, 4th Infantry Division deputy commaning general BGen. Paul Atal, and PNP Caraga regional director PCSupt. Rolando B. Felix.
Right after the MOA signing, a wall of commitment unveiling and signing was then conducted by the parties to the MOA, witnesses, and stakeholders including the local government chief executives, national government agencies, non-government organizations, people's organizations, church, academe and business sectors.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan confirmed the Provincial Peace and Order Council’s (PPOC) declaration of the province as “Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development Province” based on the recommendation of the Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army in view of the existing manageable security situation and since it has met the conditions of such declaration, to wit:
1. Civilian authorities take responsibility on issues of peace, security and development;
2. Security condition is conducive for business and investment to flourish;
3. Effective control of armed violence;
4. PPOCS effectively working, functioning and operational;
5. LGUs and PNP effectively addressing the local criminality problem; and
6. Security situation paves way for the entry of investors and infrastructure development projects.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701458199176/-focus-to-be-free-from-insurgency-gov-matba
Japan pours in Php23 M for development projects in Maguindanao, other conflict-hit areas
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 18): Japan pours in Php23 M for development projects in Maguindanao, other conflict-hit areas
Five cooperatives in Mindanao are set to receive Php 23 million worth of grants from the Japanese government, according to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
In a press release sent to Philippine Information Agency 12, OPAPP reported that Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa signed grant contracts for development projects for development projects that will be implemented in conflict-affected areas.
These projects will be carried out through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security projects (GGP) under the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD) program.
Recipients include the following organizations: Lower Riverside Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lanao Intercultural Convergence for Development and Peace, Inc. (LICDPI), Al-Amanah Humanitarian and Development Services, Inc., Philam Foundation, Inc.; and Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc. (MCL).
The newly signed projects will be implemented in the municipalities of Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Lanao del Norte; Al Ashaire Academy in Cotabato City; Bayugan, Agusan del Sur and Kalbugan Elementary School in Pikit, North Cotabato.
The contract signing was held at the Al Nor Suites and was hosted by the OPAPP. It was witnessed by representatives of the United Nations Development Programme and United Nations High Commission on Refugees , officials of the City Government of Cotabato, civil society organizations, local media, students, and other members of the academe.
Government of the Philippines negotiating panel member and former Department of Agriculture secretary Senen Bacani said that “much is to be credited to the Government of Japan and its people" with regard the success of the Bangsamoro peace process.
He also highlighted that Japan had always been one of the strongest supporters of the peace process in the international stage since it started.
J-BIRD has been contributing to the development of conflict-affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM) since December 2006.
From FY 2006-2014, some 79 projects in the Philippines were funded under the GGP amounting to USD6,664,893.00 (Php315,282,763.37).
The projects include construction or rehabilitation of schools, training centers, water supply systems and health centers, and provisions for post-harvest facilities and equipment.
Japan is a member of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) and the International Contact Group (ICG) -- mechanisms that ensure the faithful adherence of both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to the signed documents.
Bacani described the grant contract signing as “invaluable to the Bangsamoro peace process.”
“Efforts such as this, both initiated by the Philippine government and in its local and international peace partners, are sources of light against the darkness of injustice and bigotry, of hope, that we can realize our dreams of a Filipino nation united and progressive,” said Bacani.
He also challenged the aid recipients to use the projects to their full potential.
“These grants come with responsibility – a responsibility not to Japan or the Philippine government but to your fellow Bangsamoro. Use these to improve your communities and to further strengthen the ties that bind you together,” Bacani reminded the beneficiary organizations.
“These projects, through your hands, must bear fruits, so that more will benefit from them. Peace and development can only be achieved if we work hand in hand and are looking toward the same direction,” he addws.
Ambassador Ishikawa, meanwhile, assured the Bangsamoro people that Japan would continue to work hand-in-hand with all the stakeholders to support the social and economic development in Mindanao through development assistance such as the J-BIRD project.
“I would like to close my remarks by wishing you lasting peace and prosperity in Mindanao. I hope the five (5) projects signed today will be steadily implemented and make substantial contribution to your goal,” the Japanese ambassador said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1611458265645/japan-pours-in-php23-m-for-development-projects-in-maguindanao-other-conflict-hit-areas
Five cooperatives in Mindanao are set to receive Php 23 million worth of grants from the Japanese government, according to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
In a press release sent to Philippine Information Agency 12, OPAPP reported that Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa signed grant contracts for development projects for development projects that will be implemented in conflict-affected areas.
These projects will be carried out through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security projects (GGP) under the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD) program.
Recipients include the following organizations: Lower Riverside Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lanao Intercultural Convergence for Development and Peace, Inc. (LICDPI), Al-Amanah Humanitarian and Development Services, Inc., Philam Foundation, Inc.; and Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc. (MCL).
The newly signed projects will be implemented in the municipalities of Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Lanao del Norte; Al Ashaire Academy in Cotabato City; Bayugan, Agusan del Sur and Kalbugan Elementary School in Pikit, North Cotabato.
The contract signing was held at the Al Nor Suites and was hosted by the OPAPP. It was witnessed by representatives of the United Nations Development Programme and United Nations High Commission on Refugees , officials of the City Government of Cotabato, civil society organizations, local media, students, and other members of the academe.
Government of the Philippines negotiating panel member and former Department of Agriculture secretary Senen Bacani said that “much is to be credited to the Government of Japan and its people" with regard the success of the Bangsamoro peace process.
He also highlighted that Japan had always been one of the strongest supporters of the peace process in the international stage since it started.
J-BIRD has been contributing to the development of conflict-affected areas in Mindanao (CAAM) since December 2006.
From FY 2006-2014, some 79 projects in the Philippines were funded under the GGP amounting to USD6,664,893.00 (Php315,282,763.37).
The projects include construction or rehabilitation of schools, training centers, water supply systems and health centers, and provisions for post-harvest facilities and equipment.
Japan is a member of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) and the International Contact Group (ICG) -- mechanisms that ensure the faithful adherence of both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to the signed documents.
Bacani described the grant contract signing as “invaluable to the Bangsamoro peace process.”
“Efforts such as this, both initiated by the Philippine government and in its local and international peace partners, are sources of light against the darkness of injustice and bigotry, of hope, that we can realize our dreams of a Filipino nation united and progressive,” said Bacani.
He also challenged the aid recipients to use the projects to their full potential.
“These grants come with responsibility – a responsibility not to Japan or the Philippine government but to your fellow Bangsamoro. Use these to improve your communities and to further strengthen the ties that bind you together,” Bacani reminded the beneficiary organizations.
“These projects, through your hands, must bear fruits, so that more will benefit from them. Peace and development can only be achieved if we work hand in hand and are looking toward the same direction,” he addws.
Ambassador Ishikawa, meanwhile, assured the Bangsamoro people that Japan would continue to work hand-in-hand with all the stakeholders to support the social and economic development in Mindanao through development assistance such as the J-BIRD project.
“I would like to close my remarks by wishing you lasting peace and prosperity in Mindanao. I hope the five (5) projects signed today will be steadily implemented and make substantial contribution to your goal,” the Japanese ambassador said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1611458265645/japan-pours-in-php23-m-for-development-projects-in-maguindanao-other-conflict-hit-areas
New patrol vehicles for Davao City police and security forces
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17): New patrol vehicles for Davao City police and security forces
Dabawenyos were able to see the brand-new fleet of patrol vehicles who joined the annual Parada Dabawenyo civic-military parade in the occasion of the Araw ng Dabaw celebrations yesterday (March 16).
Colonel Cristobal Zaragosa head of the Task Force Davao said the new vehicles will be of great help in their mobility.
Four brand new Isuzu pick-ups were given to the Army counter-terrorism unit tasked to secure the city. it now has about 20 vehicles.
Meanwhile the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has received 35 brand new Isuzu patrol pick ups to beef up their existing 56 patrol vehicles.
City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte graced the turn-over event of the new car, he thanked the DCPO, the Task Force and the 911 for their efforts in making Davao a safe and peaceful city.
Davao City's top cop Police Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao said the new vehicles will be distrubted to the different police stations across the city particularly in the business area covered by stations 1,2 and 3. He cited the need for more vehicles in the area as these are populated districts.
The local government of Davao City has been a regular provider of patrol vehicles and motorcycles to the city's police force.
Last year, DCPO got Indian-made Tata vehicles to be utilized for administrative purposes which allows the patrol cars to focus more on patrol duties. And in 2013 it received from the city government 22 Toyota Hi-Lux pickups.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541458187417/new-patrol-vehicles-for-davao-city-police-and-security-forces
Dabawenyos were able to see the brand-new fleet of patrol vehicles who joined the annual Parada Dabawenyo civic-military parade in the occasion of the Araw ng Dabaw celebrations yesterday (March 16).
Colonel Cristobal Zaragosa head of the Task Force Davao said the new vehicles will be of great help in their mobility.
Four brand new Isuzu pick-ups were given to the Army counter-terrorism unit tasked to secure the city. it now has about 20 vehicles.
Meanwhile the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has received 35 brand new Isuzu patrol pick ups to beef up their existing 56 patrol vehicles.
City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte graced the turn-over event of the new car, he thanked the DCPO, the Task Force and the 911 for their efforts in making Davao a safe and peaceful city.
Davao City's top cop Police Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao said the new vehicles will be distrubted to the different police stations across the city particularly in the business area covered by stations 1,2 and 3. He cited the need for more vehicles in the area as these are populated districts.
The local government of Davao City has been a regular provider of patrol vehicles and motorcycles to the city's police force.
Last year, DCPO got Indian-made Tata vehicles to be utilized for administrative purposes which allows the patrol cars to focus more on patrol duties. And in 2013 it received from the city government 22 Toyota Hi-Lux pickups.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541458187417/new-patrol-vehicles-for-davao-city-police-and-security-forces
WESCOM 40th Anniversary (Selected Photos)
From the 6th Civil Relations Group, Palawan Facebook page (Mar 19): WESCOM 40th Anniversary (Selected Photos)
The men and women of the most strategic Unified Command of the AFP celebrated its 40th birthday with simple, but memorable affair. With the theme, "WESCOM @ 40: Strengthening Unity and Partnerships in Securing a More Peaceful, Progressive and Stable Western Frontier". the commemoration was graced by the Chief of Staff AFP, General Hernando DCA Iriberri, as Guest of Honor. The distinct contributions of outstanding military personnel and civilian employees of this Command, and of bayanihan partners were also recognized. To all the awardees, congratulations and carry on!
https://www.facebook.com/6crgcrsafp/photos/pcb.564086260418790/564078997086183/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/6crgcrsafp
The men and women of the most strategic Unified Command of the AFP celebrated its 40th birthday with simple, but memorable affair. With the theme, "WESCOM @ 40: Strengthening Unity and Partnerships in Securing a More Peaceful, Progressive and Stable Western Frontier". the commemoration was graced by the Chief of Staff AFP, General Hernando DCA Iriberri, as Guest of Honor. The distinct contributions of outstanding military personnel and civilian employees of this Command, and of bayanihan partners were also recognized. To all the awardees, congratulations and carry on!
https://www.facebook.com/6crgcrsafp/photos/pcb.564086260418790/564078997086183/?type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/6crgcrsafp
U.S., Philippines announce five military bases for EDCA
From CNN Philippines (Mar 19): U.S., Philippines announce five military bases for EDCA
The United States and the Philippines announced on Friday (March 18) the five Philippine military bases that will be utilized by American troops under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The U.S. and the Philippines signed the EDCA in April 2014, as political tensions between the Philippines and China escalated due to disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
The EDCA grants the U.S. an increased military presence in the Philippines, through the rotation of troops and military assets for humanitarian and maritime security operations.
Also read: What you need to know about EDCA
"What it signals is our commitment to our alliance with the Philippines and only our alliance to the Philippines. That's what this is intended to signal, that that alliance is still strong and vibrant,”said John Kirby, U.S. State Department Spokesperson.
“We want to see it continue to be stronger and more vibrant in the future. No other nation in the region should take any other message away from this new agreement.”
The deal allows rotating U.S. military presence at the following sites:
Mutual decision
"It was a mutually agreed upon decision on the selection and identification of locations, hence we fully support and welcome this development which both sides have worked hard for,” said Peter Paul Galvez, Department of National Defense Spokesperson.
The government welcomes this development:
“The five agreed locations under EDCA implementation reaffirms the shared commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. to strengthening their alliance, in terms of ensuring both countries' mutual defense and security, as well as jointly contributing to regional peace, stability & economic prosperity,” said Asec. Charles Jose, Spokesperson of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Both countries have yet to announce when the selected sites will be utilized.
Also read: Philippines, United States ‘reinforce alliance’ through EDCA
Initially, Manila offered eight areas including the Naval Station Carlito Cunanan in Palawan, which faces the direction of the disputed Spratly Islands. As of writing, there is no word yet whether U.S. Forces will have access to more bases.
‘Agreement unnecessary’
Critics of the EDCA argue that the Philippines does not need this agreement to stand against China.
"EDCA will not modernize the AFP in the same way the old U.S. bases and the Visiting Forces Agreement did not modernize the AFP,” said Renato Reyes, Secretary General of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN).
“Standing up to China requires developing our domestic economy, industrializing our country, and developing our capacity for external defense."
BAYAN insists that allowing U.S. Forces to stay in Philippine military camps violates national sovereignty.
The group said they will ask the next administration to scrap the EDCA, since the Supreme Court has ruled it is just an executive agreement which the President may terminate.
Related: Supreme Court upholds constitutionality of EDCA
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/03/19/edca-bases-philippines-us.html
The United States and the Philippines announced on Friday (March 18) the five Philippine military bases that will be utilized by American troops under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The U.S. and the Philippines signed the EDCA in April 2014, as political tensions between the Philippines and China escalated due to disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
The EDCA grants the U.S. an increased military presence in the Philippines, through the rotation of troops and military assets for humanitarian and maritime security operations.
Also read: What you need to know about EDCA
"What it signals is our commitment to our alliance with the Philippines and only our alliance to the Philippines. That's what this is intended to signal, that that alliance is still strong and vibrant,”said John Kirby, U.S. State Department Spokesperson.
“We want to see it continue to be stronger and more vibrant in the future. No other nation in the region should take any other message away from this new agreement.”
The deal allows rotating U.S. military presence at the following sites:
- Antonio Bautista Air Base, close to the contested Spratly Islands in the South China Sea
- Basa Air Base in Pampanga
- Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija
- Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro
- Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.
Mutual decision
"It was a mutually agreed upon decision on the selection and identification of locations, hence we fully support and welcome this development which both sides have worked hard for,” said Peter Paul Galvez, Department of National Defense Spokesperson.
The government welcomes this development:
“The five agreed locations under EDCA implementation reaffirms the shared commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. to strengthening their alliance, in terms of ensuring both countries' mutual defense and security, as well as jointly contributing to regional peace, stability & economic prosperity,” said Asec. Charles Jose, Spokesperson of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Both countries have yet to announce when the selected sites will be utilized.
Also read: Philippines, United States ‘reinforce alliance’ through EDCA
Initially, Manila offered eight areas including the Naval Station Carlito Cunanan in Palawan, which faces the direction of the disputed Spratly Islands. As of writing, there is no word yet whether U.S. Forces will have access to more bases.
‘Agreement unnecessary’
Critics of the EDCA argue that the Philippines does not need this agreement to stand against China.
"EDCA will not modernize the AFP in the same way the old U.S. bases and the Visiting Forces Agreement did not modernize the AFP,” said Renato Reyes, Secretary General of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN).
“Standing up to China requires developing our domestic economy, industrializing our country, and developing our capacity for external defense."
BAYAN insists that allowing U.S. Forces to stay in Philippine military camps violates national sovereignty.
The group said they will ask the next administration to scrap the EDCA, since the Supreme Court has ruled it is just an executive agreement which the President may terminate.
Related: Supreme Court upholds constitutionality of EDCA
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/03/19/edca-bases-philippines-us.html
NPA Guerrilla yields in Cordillera
From the Manila Times (Mar 19): NPA Guerrilla yields in Cordillera
CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet: A member of the New Peoples Army (NPA) based in Ifugao province has reportedly returned to his family after almost three decades in the armed rebellion.
The rebel, whose name was withheld upon his request, gave up Thursday afternoon with the help of a villagemate in Lamut town.
Cordillera police spokesperson Supt. Cherry Fajardo said the surrenderee, who is in his 40’s, joined the NPA in 1987 and became a “foot soldier” with Squad Uno, Regional Youth Guerilla Command operating in Ifugao and nearby provinces.
Considered the longest serving communist guerrilla who surrendered in the Cordillera this year, the rebel will be assisted by the government through the social integration program to usher him back to mainstream society.
http://www.manilatimes.net/npa-guerrilla-yields-in-cordillera/251456/
CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet: A member of the New Peoples Army (NPA) based in Ifugao province has reportedly returned to his family after almost three decades in the armed rebellion.
The rebel, whose name was withheld upon his request, gave up Thursday afternoon with the help of a villagemate in Lamut town.
Cordillera police spokesperson Supt. Cherry Fajardo said the surrenderee, who is in his 40’s, joined the NPA in 1987 and became a “foot soldier” with Squad Uno, Regional Youth Guerilla Command operating in Ifugao and nearby provinces.
Considered the longest serving communist guerrilla who surrendered in the Cordillera this year, the rebel will be assisted by the government through the social integration program to usher him back to mainstream society.
http://www.manilatimes.net/npa-guerrilla-yields-in-cordillera/251456/
Balikatan Joint Exercise Returns to the Philippines
From the US Embassy Manila (Mar 18): Balikatan Joint Exercise Returns to the Philippines
Balikatan 2016 (BK 16) began Wednesday, when the AFP started preliminary work on five different school buildings and community medical engagements. In the coming weeks U.S. forces will join the AFP as they work shoulder-to-shoulder during these engagements and throughout the exercise.
Balikatan is an annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral training exercise that is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions to include humanitarian assistance, maritime law enforcement, and environmental protection. BK 16 will take place in the Philippines April 4 to 16. The opening ceremony for BK 16 is scheduled to take place April 4, followed by several training events throughout the 12-day exercise, and the closing ceremony is scheduled to be held April 15.
During BK 16, Philippine and U.S. service members will conduct humanitarian civil assistance projects throughout Panay and Palawan. Preliminary work on community infrastructure projects begins at the end of March. BK 16 will demonstrate cooperation and interoperability between the Philippines and the U.S., consistent with the Mutual Defense Treaty and Visiting Forces Agreement, as we continue our commitment to train, share information and provide support to each other through a range of military operations.
Throughout BK 16, AFP and U.S. forces will work together to enhance maritime law enforcement throughout the Philippines in order to meet annual training requirements, and enhance techniques, tactics, and procedures as a critical part of interoperability of our forces.
Military service members from both countries will also conduct combined simulation supported events and operational events in three main commands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Western Command, Northern Luzon Command, and Sothern Luzon Command), and other major Philippine military camps such as Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay, Clark Air Field, Subic Bay, Palawan and Panay to improve their ability to work together, partnering in capabilities and plan follow-on operations. One of the main operations for this year’s exercise will be the implementation of a joint rapid reaction force as part of the distributed operations in the vicinity of Panay, demonstrating the partnered capability in rapid response.
BK16 is the 32nd iteration of the annual exercise. A number of personnel from other regional partner nations will attend a portion of the exercise.
“Balikatan” in Filipino means "shoulder-to-shoulder" and characterizes the spirit of the exercise and the Philippines-U.S. alliance.
Media interested in covering this exercise should contact the Armed Forces of Philippines Public Affair Office at paoafp@gmail.com.
http://manila.usembassy.gov/press-photo-releases-2016/balikatan-joint-exercise-returns-philippines.html
Balikatan 2016 (BK 16) began Wednesday, when the AFP started preliminary work on five different school buildings and community medical engagements. In the coming weeks U.S. forces will join the AFP as they work shoulder-to-shoulder during these engagements and throughout the exercise.
Balikatan is an annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral training exercise that is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions to include humanitarian assistance, maritime law enforcement, and environmental protection. BK 16 will take place in the Philippines April 4 to 16. The opening ceremony for BK 16 is scheduled to take place April 4, followed by several training events throughout the 12-day exercise, and the closing ceremony is scheduled to be held April 15.
During BK 16, Philippine and U.S. service members will conduct humanitarian civil assistance projects throughout Panay and Palawan. Preliminary work on community infrastructure projects begins at the end of March. BK 16 will demonstrate cooperation and interoperability between the Philippines and the U.S., consistent with the Mutual Defense Treaty and Visiting Forces Agreement, as we continue our commitment to train, share information and provide support to each other through a range of military operations.
Throughout BK 16, AFP and U.S. forces will work together to enhance maritime law enforcement throughout the Philippines in order to meet annual training requirements, and enhance techniques, tactics, and procedures as a critical part of interoperability of our forces.
Military service members from both countries will also conduct combined simulation supported events and operational events in three main commands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Western Command, Northern Luzon Command, and Sothern Luzon Command), and other major Philippine military camps such as Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay, Clark Air Field, Subic Bay, Palawan and Panay to improve their ability to work together, partnering in capabilities and plan follow-on operations. One of the main operations for this year’s exercise will be the implementation of a joint rapid reaction force as part of the distributed operations in the vicinity of Panay, demonstrating the partnered capability in rapid response.
BK16 is the 32nd iteration of the annual exercise. A number of personnel from other regional partner nations will attend a portion of the exercise.
“Balikatan” in Filipino means "shoulder-to-shoulder" and characterizes the spirit of the exercise and the Philippines-U.S. alliance.
Media interested in covering this exercise should contact the Armed Forces of Philippines Public Affair Office at paoafp@gmail.com.
http://manila.usembassy.gov/press-photo-releases-2016/balikatan-joint-exercise-returns-philippines.html
A Big Deal? US, Philippines Agree First ‘Bases’ Under New Defense Pact
From The Diplomat (Mar 19): A Big Deal? US, Philippines Agree First ‘Bases’ Under New Defense Pact
A look at the significance of the initial locations agreed for EDCA’s implementation.
A look at the significance of the initial locations agreed for EDCA’s implementation.
Image Credit: Flickr/US Embassy Manila
The United States and the Philippines have finally agreed on the first locations where U.S. forces will have access under a new defense pact signed back almost two years ago, officials confirmed to reporters Friday after a bilateral strategic talks.
While Washington and Manila had inked the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) – a pact that would, among other things, give U.S. troops and equipment wide access to Philippine military bases on a rotational basis – back in April 2014, it had been languishing until the Philippine Supreme Court finally upheld its constitutionality in January this year (See: “Philippine Court Upholds New US Defense Pact”).
With the constitutionality question now behind them, the two sides announced on Friday at their sixth annual Bilateral Security Dialogue (BSD) that they had agreed on the first five locations to begin implementing EDCA. The locations are: Antonio Bautista Air Base; Basa Air Base, Fort Magsaysay; Lumbia Air Base; and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base.
“This is a really a pretty big deal,” U.S. ambassador to the Philippines Phillip Goldberg, who witnessed the signing of EDCA in 2014, told reporters at a roundtable at the State Department following the meeting.
Despite the implementation delay, Goldberg is right to highlight the significance of the agreement. First, at the strategic level, with the upholding of EDCA and its initial implementation, the U.S.-Philippine alliance – which had long been recognized as underperforming – has gotten another significant boost just before the end of the Aquino administration in June and the end of the Obama administration next January. With both administrations committing themselves over the past five years to reinvigorating the relationship to a level not seen since the removal of U.S. forces from Subic Bay and Clark Air Base more than two decades ago, seizing the moment to maximize cooperation now makes sense.
Second and more specific to the defense realm, moving forward with EDCA’s implementation will advance the security interests of both sides as well as enhance joint cooperation. For Washington, getting access to these facilities will allow it to station more troops, ships and planes more frequently as it continues its ‘rebalance’ to the Asia-Pacific. Though it is important to emphasize that the United States already does have significant access to Philippine facilities, EDCA’s implementation does afford Washington the opportunity to further enhance its rotational presence there and in the region more generally, which remains a significant concern for U.S. defense planners (See: “Interview: The Future of US Military Exercises in the Asia-Pacific”).
For the Philippines, its ally will be able to assist more in capacity-building for Manila’s military – which is still one of Asia’s weakest. This is critical for the Southeast Asian state to develop what defense planners call ‘minimum credible deterrence’ in the face of a variety of threats which include, but are not limited to, China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea (See: “The Truth About Philippine Military Modernization and the China Threat). In this vein, at a press briefing Friday morning at the strategic dialogue, Amy Searight, the deputy secretary of defense for South and Southeast Asia, announced to reporters that the Obama administration would be seeking Congressional authorization for $50 million for the Maritime Security Initiative, “the lion share” of which would go to the Philippines (See: “US Launches New Maritime Security Initiative at Shangri-La Dialogue 2015”).
For both Washington and Manila, EDCA’s implementation would also allow both sides to expand ongoing efforts in areas like training and interoperability. As Goldberg himself admitted, the closure of U.S. bases in Clark and Subic has limited what the United States and the Philippines can do together under their alliance. And while U.S. and Philippine officials never miss a chance to reiterate that EDCA is about U.S. access to Philippine facilities rather than U.S. bases per se – which the agreement itself also specifically mentions – enhanced access offers more opportunities to increase the tempo of defense collaboration. To cite just one example to illustrate this point, Fort Magsaysay, one of the five agreed first locations, has already been a key site for the annual U.S.-Philippine military exercise known as the Balikatan Exercises which begins next month (“US, Philippines to Hold Expanded War Games”).
Third and lastly, though the five specific initial co-locations have long been discussed and more are expected to be disclosed in the future, several of them are particularly strategic. For instance, Antonio Bautista Air Base is located on Palawan near the South China Sea which is at the center of a lingering dispute between six claimant states including the Philippines and China. The outcome of a case that Manila filed against Beijing is expected in the coming months (See: “Does the Philippines’ Case Against China Really Matter?”).
Another of the locations, Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base, is located on Mactan Island in Cebu, the center for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts following Typhoon Haiyan, the deadliest Philippine typhoon on record which killed over 6,000 people when it hit back in November 2013. Several countries including the United States had flown in relief supplies through military aircraft. Its inclusion attests to a point both U.S. and Philippine officials have emphasized: that EDCA is meant to address a wide range of threats beyond just China.
As is stipulated in EDCA, access to these five initial locations would enable the Washington and Manila to engage in a range of activities – from the construction of facilities to the prepositioning of defense equipment – that they have long been talking about. Asked when exactly this might occur following the recent agreement, Goldberg refused to specify a timeline but said “a movement of presupplies and of different personnel” could be expected “very soon.”
To be sure, work has just started on EDCA’s implementation and it is too early to judge how it will all turn out. For example, military construction projects will need to be approved by security boards of both sides as well as adequately funded before they can take off, which will take time. More generally, though none of the current presidential candidates likely to succeed Aquino are likely to renege on EDCA itself, there are lingering concerns that the pace of implementation may slow in the post-Aquino era. Perennial anxieties about the sustainability of the U.S. commitment to Southeast Asia after the Obama administration also remain, and Philippine officials did express those publicly at the dialogue.
Nonetheless, by getting the ball rolling on the implementation of EDCA, the United States and the Philippines are at least attempting to generate some momentum that subsequent administrations can hopefully build on. With U.S. defense secretary Ash Carter set to visit Manila in April, we could see yet more developments for U.S.-Philippine defense ties for the rest of 2016.
http://thediplomat.com/2016/03/a-big-deal-us-philippines-agree-first-bases-under-new-defense-pact/
While Washington and Manila had inked the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) – a pact that would, among other things, give U.S. troops and equipment wide access to Philippine military bases on a rotational basis – back in April 2014, it had been languishing until the Philippine Supreme Court finally upheld its constitutionality in January this year (See: “Philippine Court Upholds New US Defense Pact”).
With the constitutionality question now behind them, the two sides announced on Friday at their sixth annual Bilateral Security Dialogue (BSD) that they had agreed on the first five locations to begin implementing EDCA. The locations are: Antonio Bautista Air Base; Basa Air Base, Fort Magsaysay; Lumbia Air Base; and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base.
“This is a really a pretty big deal,” U.S. ambassador to the Philippines Phillip Goldberg, who witnessed the signing of EDCA in 2014, told reporters at a roundtable at the State Department following the meeting.
Despite the implementation delay, Goldberg is right to highlight the significance of the agreement. First, at the strategic level, with the upholding of EDCA and its initial implementation, the U.S.-Philippine alliance – which had long been recognized as underperforming – has gotten another significant boost just before the end of the Aquino administration in June and the end of the Obama administration next January. With both administrations committing themselves over the past five years to reinvigorating the relationship to a level not seen since the removal of U.S. forces from Subic Bay and Clark Air Base more than two decades ago, seizing the moment to maximize cooperation now makes sense.
Second and more specific to the defense realm, moving forward with EDCA’s implementation will advance the security interests of both sides as well as enhance joint cooperation. For Washington, getting access to these facilities will allow it to station more troops, ships and planes more frequently as it continues its ‘rebalance’ to the Asia-Pacific. Though it is important to emphasize that the United States already does have significant access to Philippine facilities, EDCA’s implementation does afford Washington the opportunity to further enhance its rotational presence there and in the region more generally, which remains a significant concern for U.S. defense planners (See: “Interview: The Future of US Military Exercises in the Asia-Pacific”).
For the Philippines, its ally will be able to assist more in capacity-building for Manila’s military – which is still one of Asia’s weakest. This is critical for the Southeast Asian state to develop what defense planners call ‘minimum credible deterrence’ in the face of a variety of threats which include, but are not limited to, China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea (See: “The Truth About Philippine Military Modernization and the China Threat). In this vein, at a press briefing Friday morning at the strategic dialogue, Amy Searight, the deputy secretary of defense for South and Southeast Asia, announced to reporters that the Obama administration would be seeking Congressional authorization for $50 million for the Maritime Security Initiative, “the lion share” of which would go to the Philippines (See: “US Launches New Maritime Security Initiative at Shangri-La Dialogue 2015”).
For both Washington and Manila, EDCA’s implementation would also allow both sides to expand ongoing efforts in areas like training and interoperability. As Goldberg himself admitted, the closure of U.S. bases in Clark and Subic has limited what the United States and the Philippines can do together under their alliance. And while U.S. and Philippine officials never miss a chance to reiterate that EDCA is about U.S. access to Philippine facilities rather than U.S. bases per se – which the agreement itself also specifically mentions – enhanced access offers more opportunities to increase the tempo of defense collaboration. To cite just one example to illustrate this point, Fort Magsaysay, one of the five agreed first locations, has already been a key site for the annual U.S.-Philippine military exercise known as the Balikatan Exercises which begins next month (“US, Philippines to Hold Expanded War Games”).
Third and lastly, though the five specific initial co-locations have long been discussed and more are expected to be disclosed in the future, several of them are particularly strategic. For instance, Antonio Bautista Air Base is located on Palawan near the South China Sea which is at the center of a lingering dispute between six claimant states including the Philippines and China. The outcome of a case that Manila filed against Beijing is expected in the coming months (See: “Does the Philippines’ Case Against China Really Matter?”).
Another of the locations, Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base, is located on Mactan Island in Cebu, the center for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts following Typhoon Haiyan, the deadliest Philippine typhoon on record which killed over 6,000 people when it hit back in November 2013. Several countries including the United States had flown in relief supplies through military aircraft. Its inclusion attests to a point both U.S. and Philippine officials have emphasized: that EDCA is meant to address a wide range of threats beyond just China.
As is stipulated in EDCA, access to these five initial locations would enable the Washington and Manila to engage in a range of activities – from the construction of facilities to the prepositioning of defense equipment – that they have long been talking about. Asked when exactly this might occur following the recent agreement, Goldberg refused to specify a timeline but said “a movement of presupplies and of different personnel” could be expected “very soon.”
To be sure, work has just started on EDCA’s implementation and it is too early to judge how it will all turn out. For example, military construction projects will need to be approved by security boards of both sides as well as adequately funded before they can take off, which will take time. More generally, though none of the current presidential candidates likely to succeed Aquino are likely to renege on EDCA itself, there are lingering concerns that the pace of implementation may slow in the post-Aquino era. Perennial anxieties about the sustainability of the U.S. commitment to Southeast Asia after the Obama administration also remain, and Philippine officials did express those publicly at the dialogue.
Nonetheless, by getting the ball rolling on the implementation of EDCA, the United States and the Philippines are at least attempting to generate some momentum that subsequent administrations can hopefully build on. With U.S. defense secretary Ash Carter set to visit Manila in April, we could see yet more developments for U.S.-Philippine defense ties for the rest of 2016.
http://thediplomat.com/2016/03/a-big-deal-us-philippines-agree-first-bases-under-new-defense-pact/
Naval base to rise in Batanes
From the Philippine Star (Mar 19): Naval base to rise in Batanes
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Batanes Rep. Henedina Abad led the groundbreaking ceremony for the P166.5-million project last Thursday
The Department of National Defense (DND) announced yesterday that a naval base is being built in Batanes.
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Batanes Rep. Henedina Abad led the groundbreaking ceremony for the P166.5-million project last Thursday.
“We envision a naval base that shall have accessible naval installations which could provide logistics, training and other support services in the conduct of prompt and sustained fleet and marine operation,” Gazmin said in his speech.
When completed, the naval base will include a logistics facility, wharf and beaching areas, small craft facility and communication and electronics facilities.
Aside from the Navy, the facility will also be used by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Department of Agriculture (DA).
With the base, the Navy aims to improve the existing capability and infrastructure of the current Mahatao boat shelter to be utilized for training exercises, combat and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.
“The place is chosen as the most strategic area based on historical facts during World War II. Its harbor spaces provide natural protection to our naval vessels, considering that the province of Batanes has been the frequent route of storms and typhoons, especially during rainy season,” Gazmin said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/19/1564425/naval-base-rise-batanes
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Batanes Rep. Henedina Abad led the groundbreaking ceremony for the P166.5-million project last Thursday
The Department of National Defense (DND) announced yesterday that a naval base is being built in Batanes.
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Batanes Rep. Henedina Abad led the groundbreaking ceremony for the P166.5-million project last Thursday.
“We envision a naval base that shall have accessible naval installations which could provide logistics, training and other support services in the conduct of prompt and sustained fleet and marine operation,” Gazmin said in his speech.
When completed, the naval base will include a logistics facility, wharf and beaching areas, small craft facility and communication and electronics facilities.
Aside from the Navy, the facility will also be used by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Department of Agriculture (DA).
With the base, the Navy aims to improve the existing capability and infrastructure of the current Mahatao boat shelter to be utilized for training exercises, combat and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.
“The place is chosen as the most strategic area based on historical facts during World War II. Its harbor spaces provide natural protection to our naval vessels, considering that the province of Batanes has been the frequent route of storms and typhoons, especially during rainy season,” Gazmin said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/19/1564425/naval-base-rise-batanes
Government troops searching for Sayyaf leader
From the Philippine Star (Mar 20): Government troops searching for Sayyaf leader
The fighting left seven militants killed and score others, including soldiers, wounded, said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu. Philstar.com/File
Government troops were combing yesterday the jungle of Patikul town, Sulu in search of the most senior Abu Sayyaf leader Radullan Sahiron who was wounded in Friday’s gun battle.
The fighting left seven militants killed and score others, including soldiers, wounded, said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu.
The number of the wounded from the government forces increased to 20 soldiers, it was reported yesterday.
One of those wounded were Lt. Col. Mario Jacinto, commander of the 10th Infantry Battalion (IB), the military said.
Jacinto led the offensive that also left two of Sahiron’s henchmen wounded.
Arrojado said troops were deployed to block the area where the Abu Sayyaf group fled with their wounded leader.
“All military units in nearby area have been directed to intensify pursuit operations,” Arrojado said.
Security forces were also alerted in downtown Jolo to prevent the militants from taking any medical practitioner to treat their wounded leader and companions in the jungle.
Maj. Felimon Tan Jr., spokesman of Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said 19 of the wounded soldiers were airlifted to this city for treatment.
At least 18 were confined at Camp Navarro General Hospital while one was taken to a private hospital.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/20/1564674/government-troops-searching-sayyaf-leader
The fighting left seven militants killed and score others, including soldiers, wounded, said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu. Philstar.com/File
Government troops were combing yesterday the jungle of Patikul town, Sulu in search of the most senior Abu Sayyaf leader Radullan Sahiron who was wounded in Friday’s gun battle.
The fighting left seven militants killed and score others, including soldiers, wounded, said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu.
The number of the wounded from the government forces increased to 20 soldiers, it was reported yesterday.
One of those wounded were Lt. Col. Mario Jacinto, commander of the 10th Infantry Battalion (IB), the military said.
Jacinto led the offensive that also left two of Sahiron’s henchmen wounded.
Arrojado said troops were deployed to block the area where the Abu Sayyaf group fled with their wounded leader.
“All military units in nearby area have been directed to intensify pursuit operations,” Arrojado said.
Security forces were also alerted in downtown Jolo to prevent the militants from taking any medical practitioner to treat their wounded leader and companions in the jungle.
Maj. Felimon Tan Jr., spokesman of Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said 19 of the wounded soldiers were airlifted to this city for treatment.
At least 18 were confined at Camp Navarro General Hospital while one was taken to a private hospital.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/20/1564674/government-troops-searching-sayyaf-leader
PH, US agree on EDCA implementation in Palawan, 4 other places
From Rappler (Mar 19): PH, US agree on EDCA implementation in Palawan, 4 other places
The Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan has been the site of maritime exercises with the militaries of the US, Japan, and Australia
PARTNERS. Military troops from the Philippines and US hold up their respective national flags during opening rites of the Philippines-US Balikatan Exercise in Quezon City on April 20, 2015. File photo by Ritchie Tongo/EPA
The Philippines and the United States have agreed on 5 local bases where US troops will be allowed to build facilities, a statement released by the Philippine embassy in the US said Saturday, March 19.
One of them is the Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, the closest to the disputed Kalayaan Group of Islands (Spratlys) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). It has served as the jump off point for maritime surveillance activities in the West Philippine Sea.
The other 4 locations are the following: Basa Air Base in Batangas, Fort Magsaysay in Tarlac, Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro, and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.
The Antonio Bautista Air Base has been the site of maritime exercises with the militaries of the US, Japan, and Australia.
Previously, the Philippines said it was set to offer the US military use of 8 bases, after the country's Supreme Court upheld a security agreement with Washington in January 2016.
The Philippines and the US agreed to cooperate on maritime security at a time when China is seen to be eyeing control of key international trade routes in the disputed waters.
Below is the joint statement of the 6th United States-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue held on March 17-18 in Washington DC.
Embassy of the Philippines, Washington DC
The Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan has been the site of maritime exercises with the militaries of the US, Japan, and Australia
PARTNERS. Military troops from the Philippines and US hold up their respective national flags during opening rites of the Philippines-US Balikatan Exercise in Quezon City on April 20, 2015. File photo by Ritchie Tongo/EPA
The Philippines and the United States have agreed on 5 local bases where US troops will be allowed to build facilities, a statement released by the Philippine embassy in the US said Saturday, March 19.
One of them is the Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, the closest to the disputed Kalayaan Group of Islands (Spratlys) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). It has served as the jump off point for maritime surveillance activities in the West Philippine Sea.
The other 4 locations are the following: Basa Air Base in Batangas, Fort Magsaysay in Tarlac, Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro, and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.
The Antonio Bautista Air Base has been the site of maritime exercises with the militaries of the US, Japan, and Australia.
Previously, the Philippines said it was set to offer the US military use of 8 bases, after the country's Supreme Court upheld a security agreement with Washington in January 2016.
The Philippines and the US agreed to cooperate on maritime security at a time when China is seen to be eyeing control of key international trade routes in the disputed waters.
Below is the joint statement of the 6th United States-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue held on March 17-18 in Washington DC.
Embassy of the Philippines, Washington DC
Sixth United States-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue Joint Statement:
The United States and the Republic of the Philippines held the sixth Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) on March 17-18, 2016, in Washington, D.C. The annual dialogue supported and reinforced the Alliance across a broad range of shared values, interests, and priorities. The Dialogue was co-chaired by Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel and Assistant Secretary of Defense David Shear for the U...nited States and Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Evan P. Garcia and Undersecretary of National Defense Pio Lorenzo F. Batino for the Republic of the Philippines. Discussions reaffirmed shared commitment to strengthening the Alliance, in terms of ensuring both countries’ mutual defense and security, as well as jointly contributing to regional peace, stability, and economic prosperity.
The United States and the Republic of the Philippines held the sixth Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) on March 17-18, 2016, in Washington, D.C. The annual dialogue supported and reinforced the Alliance across a broad range of shared values, interests, and priorities. The Dialogue was co-chaired by Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel and Assistant Secretary of Defense David Shear for the U...nited States and Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Evan P. Garcia and Undersecretary of National Defense Pio Lorenzo F. Batino for the Republic of the Philippines. Discussions reaffirmed shared commitment to strengthening the Alliance, in terms of ensuring both countries’ mutual defense and security, as well as jointly contributing to regional peace, stability, and economic prosperity.
On the occasion of the BSD, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, as articulated in the November 2011 Manila Declaration and more recently in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). They noted agreement on five EDCA Agreed Locations encompassing portions of the following facilities and areas: Antonio Bautista Air Base, Basa Air Base, Fort Magsaysay, Lumbia Air Base, and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base, and discussed next steps for implementation of the EDCA. The two sides discussed proposals to support the United States’ efforts to help modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, develop capacity and capability for maritime security and domain awareness, and provide rapid humanitarian assistance.
The Philippines welcomed the intent of the U.S. Department of Defense to propose to the U.S. Congress that a significant amount under the Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative be allocated in Fiscal Year 2016 to the Philippines for mutually-agreed projects that directly support the country’s maritime security priorities. They committed to continue developing, planning, and executing defense cooperation activities to reinforce their respective national defense capabilities and interoperability, in the areas of maritime security and domain awareness, enhanced joint activities, humanitarian and disaster response, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and information sharing. Along this line, they also provided strategic policy guidance to the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) to enhance cooperation in addressing traditional and non-traditional security challenges.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to peace, security, and stability in the region, unimpeded lawful commerce, and freedoms of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea as guaranteed under international law. Both sides expressed their firm opposition to the ongoing militarization of outposts in the South China Sea and discussed their common view that the installation of new military assets on the outposts escalates tensions. They discussed options to address further militarization and unilateral actions in the South China Sea. The delegations from the United States and the Philippines reaffirmed that countries should clarify maritime claims in the South China Sea in accordance with international law as reflected in the Law of the Sea Convention and peacefully resolve or manage disputes, including through the use of peaceful dispute settlement mechanisms, such as arbitration. Both sides restated their views that the ruling in the South China Sea case before the U.N. Law of the Sea Convention arbitral tribunal would be legally binding on both China and the Philippines. They reinforced the importance of close cooperation and consultation in international organizations and bodies that support a rules-based international order providing a framework for peaceful resolution of disputes.
The two sides decided to further deepen the already extensive U.S.-Philippine economic relationship based on a mutual commitment to free trade and economic opportunity. They welcomed the Trade & Investment Framework Agreement meeting on March 16 in Washington D.C., which advanced bilateral trade and investment issues between them and provided an opportunity to discuss the Philippines’ keen interest in the Trans-Pacific Partnership. They expressed their intention to renew the 2012 Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which will help to ensure continued close collaboration in science and technology, energy security, health, climate change, and other areas. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of cooperating on ambitious action to combat climate change and to implement the Paris Agreement on sustainable fisheries management; on combating wildlife trafficking; and on environmental law enforcement capacity building.
The delegations from the United States and the Philippines noted that the first Millennium Challenge Corporation compact is on track to be successfully completed in May 2016, and reviewed progress of second compact development, as well as ongoing programs under the U.S. Agency for International Development that are building the conditions for stronger, more resilient and inclusive economic growth.
During the Dialogue, the two sides also discussed cooperative activities to support the rule of law, including law enforcement-related capacity building to assist the Philippines’ efforts to curb corruption, money laundering, trafficking in persons, terrorism, environmental crime, and cybercrime as just a few examples of extensive ongoing law enforcement cooperation. The U.S. side welcomed Philippine Senate ratification of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction and Philippine progress toward accession to the Convention.
Finally, the delegations from the United States and the Philippines underscored the strong personal and societal bonds, including a commitment to shared values and norms, which form the core of the relationship, and reaffirmed their commitment to continue to support and deepen people-to-people ties and other exchanges that enrich both countries.
The Philippines welcomed the intent of the U.S. Department of Defense to propose to the U.S. Congress that a significant amount under the Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative be allocated in Fiscal Year 2016 to the Philippines for mutually-agreed projects that directly support the country’s maritime security priorities. They committed to continue developing, planning, and executing defense cooperation activities to reinforce their respective national defense capabilities and interoperability, in the areas of maritime security and domain awareness, enhanced joint activities, humanitarian and disaster response, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and information sharing. Along this line, they also provided strategic policy guidance to the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) to enhance cooperation in addressing traditional and non-traditional security challenges.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to peace, security, and stability in the region, unimpeded lawful commerce, and freedoms of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea as guaranteed under international law. Both sides expressed their firm opposition to the ongoing militarization of outposts in the South China Sea and discussed their common view that the installation of new military assets on the outposts escalates tensions. They discussed options to address further militarization and unilateral actions in the South China Sea. The delegations from the United States and the Philippines reaffirmed that countries should clarify maritime claims in the South China Sea in accordance with international law as reflected in the Law of the Sea Convention and peacefully resolve or manage disputes, including through the use of peaceful dispute settlement mechanisms, such as arbitration. Both sides restated their views that the ruling in the South China Sea case before the U.N. Law of the Sea Convention arbitral tribunal would be legally binding on both China and the Philippines. They reinforced the importance of close cooperation and consultation in international organizations and bodies that support a rules-based international order providing a framework for peaceful resolution of disputes.
The two sides decided to further deepen the already extensive U.S.-Philippine economic relationship based on a mutual commitment to free trade and economic opportunity. They welcomed the Trade & Investment Framework Agreement meeting on March 16 in Washington D.C., which advanced bilateral trade and investment issues between them and provided an opportunity to discuss the Philippines’ keen interest in the Trans-Pacific Partnership. They expressed their intention to renew the 2012 Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which will help to ensure continued close collaboration in science and technology, energy security, health, climate change, and other areas. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of cooperating on ambitious action to combat climate change and to implement the Paris Agreement on sustainable fisheries management; on combating wildlife trafficking; and on environmental law enforcement capacity building.
The delegations from the United States and the Philippines noted that the first Millennium Challenge Corporation compact is on track to be successfully completed in May 2016, and reviewed progress of second compact development, as well as ongoing programs under the U.S. Agency for International Development that are building the conditions for stronger, more resilient and inclusive economic growth.
During the Dialogue, the two sides also discussed cooperative activities to support the rule of law, including law enforcement-related capacity building to assist the Philippines’ efforts to curb corruption, money laundering, trafficking in persons, terrorism, environmental crime, and cybercrime as just a few examples of extensive ongoing law enforcement cooperation. The U.S. side welcomed Philippine Senate ratification of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction and Philippine progress toward accession to the Convention.
Finally, the delegations from the United States and the Philippines underscored the strong personal and societal bonds, including a commitment to shared values and norms, which form the core of the relationship, and reaffirmed their commitment to continue to support and deepen people-to-people ties and other exchanges that enrich both countries.
Like 4 Comment 2 The statement also said, "The two sides discussed proposals to support the United States’ efforts to help modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, develop capacity and capability for maritime security and domain awareness, and provide rapid humanitarian assistance." Both sides likewise expressed their "firm opposition to the ongoing militarization of outposts in the South China Sea and discussed their common view that the installation of new military assets on the outposts escalates tensions." They agreed that countries should clarify maritime claims in the South China Sea "in accordance with international law" and peacefully resolve or manage disputes through arbitration. It was an apparent reference to China which has insisted on bilateral talks with the Philippines to settle maritime disputes. The Philippines has brought its case for arbitration to United Nations-backed arbitral tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands. Both sides reiterated that the ruling in the South China Sea case before the UN Law of the Sea Convention arbitral tribunal "would be legally binding on both China and the Philippines." Likewise, the two sides mentioned the need for cooperative activities to "support the rule of law, including law enforcement-related capacity building to assist the Philippines’ efforts to curb corruption, money laundering, trafficking in persons, terrorism, environmental crime, and cybercrime." The US and the Philippines also "discussed next steps of implementation" of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) although details were not provided. The US defense department is likewise seeking congressional approval to allocate a "significant amount" to maritime security priorities in the Philippines. The Dialogue was co-chaired by Assistant State Secretary Daniel Russel and Assistant Defense Secretary David Shear for the US, and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Evan Garcia and Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino for the Philippines. http://www.rappler.com/nation/126438-ph-us-edca-palawan-security |
Over a dozen troops wounded in Sayyaf clash
From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 18): Over a dozen troops wounded in Sayyaf clash
More than a dozen soldiers were wounded in fierce clashes Friday with Abu Sayyaf rebels in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, military intelligence reports said.
It said the fighting erupted near the village of Danag in Patikul town after government troops raided an Abu Sayyaf hideout. It was not immediately known if there were enemies killed in the fighting, but sporadic clashes had been reported in several villages.
Among those wounded in the clashes have been identified as Lt. Col. Mario Jacinto, Sgts. Edgar Pahunang, Henry Paguyo, Abdurahman Ladjahasan, Randy Rivera, Jul Amin Baridgi, Rey Saluag, Baguio Balansi, Bernard Rey Tamparon, and Anthony Remotin.
And Cpls. Jerahkim Cuello and Juverey Guia, Pfcs. Gleen Richard Ponse, Jojo Anlas and Pvt. Isagani Moracilla – all from the 10th Infantry Battalion.
The Western Mindanao Command did not issue any statement about the fighting, which occurred just a day after security forces captured 3 Abu Sayyaf fighters – Jemar Asgari, 22; Alden Asmad, 29; and Dems Abtal, 29, – in the village of Lower Sinumaan in Talipao town and the trio was behind the spate of killings of soldiers and policemen in Jolo town.
Just last Tuesday, Abu Sayyaf rebels also killed 2 army intelligence soldiers – Corporals Lamustre and Apiado – in a broad daylight in the village of Igasan in Patikul town. Both soldiers were members of the 10th Infantry Battalion who were sent to the village of Taglibi to gather intelligence about the Abu Sayyaf and its hostages.
The Abu Sayyaf has threatened to kill their 2 Canadian hostages John Ridsdel, 68, and Robert Hall, 50; and a Norwegian man Kjartan Sekkingstad who were kidnapped along with a Filipina, Maritess Flor, in September last year on Samal island in Davao del Norte province.
The rebels demanded P21 million for each of the three hostages and said it would execute the hostages if ransoms are not paid until April 8. The captives have appealed – in a new video clip uploaded on Facebook – to their governments to save their lives.
Security officials have kept a tight lid on the progress of military operations against the Abu Sayyaf. The Western Mindanao Command under General Mayoralgo dela Cruz or his spokesmen also did not give any statement about the latest threat by the Abu Sayyaf to kill the hostages.
Ridsdel, a consultant for international miner TVI, has appealed to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Pierre James Trudeau to save him and the other hostages. Ridsdel and his companions were all shirtless and in handcuffs, and appeared frail and bearded in the video and guarded by masked gunmen – one them said they “will do something terrible against these captives.”
Hall and Sekkingstand, 56, also made a similar appeal and told their governments to get them all out fast. The woman did not speak
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/over-dozen-troops-wounded-in-sayyaf-clash/
More than a dozen soldiers were wounded in fierce clashes Friday with Abu Sayyaf rebels in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, military intelligence reports said.
It said the fighting erupted near the village of Danag in Patikul town after government troops raided an Abu Sayyaf hideout. It was not immediately known if there were enemies killed in the fighting, but sporadic clashes had been reported in several villages.
Among those wounded in the clashes have been identified as Lt. Col. Mario Jacinto, Sgts. Edgar Pahunang, Henry Paguyo, Abdurahman Ladjahasan, Randy Rivera, Jul Amin Baridgi, Rey Saluag, Baguio Balansi, Bernard Rey Tamparon, and Anthony Remotin.
And Cpls. Jerahkim Cuello and Juverey Guia, Pfcs. Gleen Richard Ponse, Jojo Anlas and Pvt. Isagani Moracilla – all from the 10th Infantry Battalion.
The Western Mindanao Command did not issue any statement about the fighting, which occurred just a day after security forces captured 3 Abu Sayyaf fighters – Jemar Asgari, 22; Alden Asmad, 29; and Dems Abtal, 29, – in the village of Lower Sinumaan in Talipao town and the trio was behind the spate of killings of soldiers and policemen in Jolo town.
Just last Tuesday, Abu Sayyaf rebels also killed 2 army intelligence soldiers – Corporals Lamustre and Apiado – in a broad daylight in the village of Igasan in Patikul town. Both soldiers were members of the 10th Infantry Battalion who were sent to the village of Taglibi to gather intelligence about the Abu Sayyaf and its hostages.
The Abu Sayyaf has threatened to kill their 2 Canadian hostages John Ridsdel, 68, and Robert Hall, 50; and a Norwegian man Kjartan Sekkingstad who were kidnapped along with a Filipina, Maritess Flor, in September last year on Samal island in Davao del Norte province.
The rebels demanded P21 million for each of the three hostages and said it would execute the hostages if ransoms are not paid until April 8. The captives have appealed – in a new video clip uploaded on Facebook – to their governments to save their lives.
Security officials have kept a tight lid on the progress of military operations against the Abu Sayyaf. The Western Mindanao Command under General Mayoralgo dela Cruz or his spokesmen also did not give any statement about the latest threat by the Abu Sayyaf to kill the hostages.
Ridsdel, a consultant for international miner TVI, has appealed to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Pierre James Trudeau to save him and the other hostages. Ridsdel and his companions were all shirtless and in handcuffs, and appeared frail and bearded in the video and guarded by masked gunmen – one them said they “will do something terrible against these captives.”
Hall and Sekkingstand, 56, also made a similar appeal and told their governments to get them all out fast. The woman did not speak
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/over-dozen-troops-wounded-in-sayyaf-clash/
3 CAR mayors affirm positive effects of community- driven dev’t. projects
From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 18): 3 CAR mayors affirm positive effects of community- driven dev’t. projects
In the closure program for Millennium Challenge Corporation funded KALAHI – CIDSS (Kapit – Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services), Mayor James Edduba of Pasil, Kalinga, highlighted that KALAHI – CIDSS is a good and the right program that encourages volunteerism and brings (positive) changes in the countryside.
Mayor Victorino Barona Jr of Bucay, Abra, in behalf of the people in the municipality, expressed gratitude for the program as the community development sub – projects implemented under the program have truly changed for the better the lives of the people.
Besao, Mountain Province Mayor Wellington also highlighted the progress brought by the around P70 million worth of KALAHI – CIDSS community development sub –projects in his town.
The towns of Pasil, Bucay and Besao, in the five year implementation of the MCC-funded program are four, three and six cycles’ beneficiary of KALAHI – CIDSS grants, respectively.
Aside from their respective LCEs, community volunteers from each town also shared their learning experiences and the benefits they have earned under the program.
DSWD Undersecretary Camilo Gudmalin, in his keynote message, said the KALAHI – CIDSS program was conceptualized then as a dream to increase LGUs’ and people’s participation in community development and poverty reduction projects. But the inspiring stories that were shared in the forum are indications that community empowerment is now a reality.
DSWD Regional Director Janet Armas, reported that under the KALAHI – CIDSS accomplishments in the Cordillera, 432 sub-projects involving basic access infrastructure, basic social services, community production, economic support and common service facilities, and environmental protection and conservation, were approved benefitting 67,792 households in 19 municipalities in five provinces in the region.
Through the program, Armas bared an increase in barangay assembly participation, mobilization and training of volunteers, labor generation, which are in line with the program’s goal to address poverty, increased community involvement and improvement of local governance.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/61458212427/3-car-mayors-affirm-positive-effects-of-community--driven-dev-t-projects
Local executives in three towns in the Cordillera affirmed
the positive effect of the community – driven development projects in their
respective localities.
In the closure program for Millennium Challenge Corporation funded KALAHI – CIDSS (Kapit – Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services), Mayor James Edduba of Pasil, Kalinga, highlighted that KALAHI – CIDSS is a good and the right program that encourages volunteerism and brings (positive) changes in the countryside.
Mayor Victorino Barona Jr of Bucay, Abra, in behalf of the people in the municipality, expressed gratitude for the program as the community development sub – projects implemented under the program have truly changed for the better the lives of the people.
Besao, Mountain Province Mayor Wellington also highlighted the progress brought by the around P70 million worth of KALAHI – CIDSS community development sub –projects in his town.
The towns of Pasil, Bucay and Besao, in the five year implementation of the MCC-funded program are four, three and six cycles’ beneficiary of KALAHI – CIDSS grants, respectively.
Aside from their respective LCEs, community volunteers from each town also shared their learning experiences and the benefits they have earned under the program.
DSWD Undersecretary Camilo Gudmalin, in his keynote message, said the KALAHI – CIDSS program was conceptualized then as a dream to increase LGUs’ and people’s participation in community development and poverty reduction projects. But the inspiring stories that were shared in the forum are indications that community empowerment is now a reality.
DSWD Regional Director Janet Armas, reported that under the KALAHI – CIDSS accomplishments in the Cordillera, 432 sub-projects involving basic access infrastructure, basic social services, community production, economic support and common service facilities, and environmental protection and conservation, were approved benefitting 67,792 households in 19 municipalities in five provinces in the region.
Through the program, Armas bared an increase in barangay assembly participation, mobilization and training of volunteers, labor generation, which are in line with the program’s goal to address poverty, increased community involvement and improvement of local governance.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/61458212427/3-car-mayors-affirm-positive-effects-of-community--driven-dev-t-projects
BIFF bandits attack N. Cotabato CAFGU detachment, shot Maguindanao dump truck
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 19): BIFF bandits attack N. Cotabato CAFGU detachment, shot Maguindanao dump truck
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=868254
Elements of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters
(BIFF) tried but failed to overrun a para-military detachment in a remote
village here, police on Saturday said.
Senior Inspector Junete Napat, Aleosan town police chief,
said about 50 suspected BIFF from Datu Salibo, Maguindanao harassed the
detachment of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) at about 8
p.m. by firing assault rifles and rifle grenades.
But the militiamen were prepared and engaged the attackers
in a gun battle that lasted for about two hours until the guerrillas retreated
back to Liguasan marshland.
The militia detachment was one of the many outposts
established by the military to prevent BIFF, now under attack by government
forces in Datu Salibo, from harassing civilian communities in North
Cotabato .
The Rio Grande de Mindnanao served as the borders of
Maguindanao and North Cotabato .
Napat said no casualty was reported on the side of the
militiamen. Paramilitary troopers could not say if the attackers suffered
casualties either.
The morning after, government forces recovered about 100
pieces of empty shells from M-16 Armalite rifle, Garand rifle, fragments of
rifle grenade and empty shells for cal. 50 Barret rifle in an area where the
BIFF positioned, about 100 meters away from the detachment.
Barret rifle is a signature firearm of the BIFF.
It was the second harassment against the Aleosan detachment
this year. Last February 18, BIFF also attacked the CAFGU base.
Capt. Joann Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson,
said the harassment on Aleosan detachment was part of the diversionary tactics
of the BIFF which suffered heavy losses during Army offensives in Maguindanao.
"This is part of the terrorists' tactics to ease the
offensives in Datu Salibo," Petinglay said. The military launched attacks
against the BIFF after the outlawed group harassed workers of a government
flood control project in Maguindanao.
Petinglay said the BIFF has resorted to harassment or hit
and run attacks, not only against the military, but other areas in Maguindanao
as well. Aside from Aleosan detachment, on Friday afternoon, BIFF also harassed
and fired at a dump truck owned by the Maguindanao provincial government in a
remote village in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
The dump truck was working on road project in Ampatuan.
Petinglay said military operations against the BIFF in
Maguindanao and nearby areas continue despite the observance of Holy Week.
"Our operations continue, we cannot just leave the area
because suspected IEDs still litter the communities earlier occupied by the
BIFF," she said.
She said soldiers can pause and pray even while they are in
the battle fields.
The armed conflict in Maguindanao started on February 5
after the BIFF prevented workers of a PHP58-million flood control project aimed
at saving villagers from floods every rainy season.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=868254
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