Military: “High-probability” body in Sulu belongs to Canadian Robert Hall

From CNN Philippines (Jul 2): Military: “High-probability” body in Sulu belongs to Canadian Robert Hall



(File photo) The missing body was found almost three weeks after Canadian Robert Hall was beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf group. The PNP earlier said it can still determine the body’s identity.

A headless body dug up in Sulu Saturday morning, is believed to be that of Robert Hall, the Canadian hostage slain by the Abu Sayyaf.

“Masasabi natin na malaki ang probability… and it resembles Hall (There’s a high probability that it is Hall’s),” Maj. Filemon Tan, spokesman for the military’s Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) told CNN Philippines.

Tan said the decaying, Caucasian-looking body was recovered by the Joint Task Force Sulu in Talipao town at around 11: 35 a.m, following information provided by the locals.

Related: Military: ASG may be hiding beheaded hostage’s body

He however explained that the body has to undergo DNA testing for it to be declared Hall’s. It will be turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO).

Through a DNA test, the PNP crime laboratory earlier confirmed that the head found in Jolo, Sulu on June 13 was Hall’s. The head was found in front of a church--hours after the Abu Sayyaf beheaded Hall.

The militants were asking for P300 million pesos in ransom for Hall’s release but both the Philippine and Canadian governments rejected the demand.

Also read: Trudeau: Canada will not give in to 'fear-mongering tactics'

Related: PH gov't condemns ‘brutal and senseless’ murder of ASG hostage

Chief Supt. Emmanuel Aranas, director of the PNP crime laboratory, earlier said they have the technology and capability to determine the body’s identity even if it is already decaying.

In its official statement, the military decried Hall’s beheading as a “barbaric act,” and once again vowed to put an end to the Abu Sayyaf.

“Focused military operations in the area are being undertaken to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf members and possibly rescue the remaining kidnap victim,” Tan said.

Hall was abducted from a resort on Samal Island in September 2015, along with fellow Canadian John Ridsdel, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad and Filipina Tess Flor.

Ridsdel was beheaded last April 25, Flor was released June 24, while Sekkingstad remains in the hands of the ASG. President Rodrigo Duterte said negotiations are underway for Sekkingstad’s release.

He also said there will soon be a "day of reckoning" with the Abu Sayyaf and promised to dismantle the group.

Read: Who are the Abu Sayyaf?

http://cnnphilippines.com/regional/2016/07/02/beheaded-Abu-Sayayf-hostage-Robert-Hall.html

New DND chief worked hard to ensure proper benefits for Filipino WW II veterans -- PVAO

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 3): New DND chief worked hard to ensure proper benefits for Filipino WW II veterans -- PVAO

Newly-appointed Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has worked hard to ensure that Filipino World War II veterans, who served in the US Army, get their much needed benefits.

“Coordinating closely with the RP-based Filipino veterans, Sec. Lorenzana worked for the unification of Filipino-American efforts in support of World War II Filipino Veteran Equity lobby in the US, which was greatly instrumental in the passage of the two Filipino veteran equity bills in both houses of the US Congress and the eventual passage of the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund," Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) administrator Ernesto G. Carolina said.

Lorenzana, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1973 and a retired major general, served as Special Representative and Head of the Office of Veterans Affairs in Washington D.C.

Carolina added that many of the modern facilities enjoyed by veterans at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) came from the annual US Veterans Affairs (USVA) grant-in-aid, which the new DND chief was instrumental in obtaining.

Also, another development where Lorenzana has positively contributed is the approval of the US Immigration Parole System for Filipino World War II veterans, which would allow Filipino veterans who became US citizens to bring their family members to the US.

Due to Lorenzana’s efforts, PVAO succeeded in bringing home from the US National Archives of History the digitized copies of very valuable World War II records.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900828

AFP to help law enforcement agencies in war vs crime, illegal drugs

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 3):  AFP to help law enforcement agencies in war vs crime, illegal drugs

Aside from focusing military pressure on terrorist groups known to be operating in the country, newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya vowed to intensify their support to law enforcement agencies in a bid to eliminate crime.

He made this statement during his assumption speech at the GHQ Grandstand, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon last July 1.

"Over and above our role to run after the terrorists, we will also intensify our support to law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in their mission to eliminate widespread criminality and the wanton destruction of lives brought about by the spread and use of illegal drugs," he added.

Visaya earlier vowed to launch a "24/7 fight" against the Abu Sayyaf bandits and its allied terrorist groups in a bid to totally neutralize these lawless elements.

"We will start the same advocacy with our ranks by continuously weeding out those scalawags who use drugs, who have links with illegal groups and activities. Then we will proceed to build alliances with our counterparts to bring down syndicates and other organized crime groups," he added.

Regarding matters of territorial defense, Visaya said the AFP will abide by the political, legal and democratic processes to settle the issue and support national policy to strengthen our position in the regional and global area.

"The AFP will rationalize our relationship with our allies in order to strengthen our military ties with them while at the same time prioritize the interest of our force and our nation," he stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900831

Challenge accepted: New PSG Commander assumes post

From CNN Philippines (Jul 2):Challenge accepted: New PSG Commander assumes post

 

(File photo) Presidential Security Group (PSG) Commander Col. Rolando Bautista says he's ready to "rise up to the challenge" of securing the safety of President Rodrigo Duterte.

New Presidential Security Group (PSG) Commander Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista formally assumed his post Saturday with a pledge to protect the two highest officials of the country.

Personally handpicked by President Rodrigo Duterte, Bautista is aware of the big task ahead of him. But he said he is up to the challenge.

“The PSG collectively, under my leadership, shall rise up to the challenge of securing the President according to established and tested security protocols,” Bautista said during the PSG change of command ceremony.

Bautista earlier said the PSG "will have to adjust" to meet Duterte's requests. Back in the campaign trail, Duterte said he does not want a lot of PSG members tailing him, and that the PSG does not have to keep an eye on him when he's in his bailiwick, Davao City.

Bautista asked for the PSG's “whole-hearted cooperation” in securing the safety of Duterte, Vice President Leni Robredo, and their families. 

 “Fellow officers and men of PSG, I enlist your whole-hearted cooperation and support in working towards the attainment of a harmonious interpersonal relationship,” Bautista said.

He urged the men and women of PSG to join him in transforming it "into a cohesive, socially relevant and incorruptible unit."

Bautista said they should follow the fitting example set by the President – from his simple inauguration and genuine humility. He also thanked Duterte for his trust and confidence in allowing him to lead the PSG.

Bautista took over the post previously headed by Rear Admiral Raul Ubando, his mistah in the Philippine Military Academy Sandiwa Class of 1985.

For his part, Ubando thanked former President Benigno Aquino III and the rest of the Aquino family for the opportunity to serve them.

“To the past President Benigno Aquino III and his family, please accept my sincere gratitude for the trust and confidence that you have given me,” Ubando said.

He also cited his achievements during his term including the successful visit of Pope Francis, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit; and the visits of heads of states including U.S. President Barack Obama, and Japanese Emperor Akihito.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya was present in the event and said he's confident Bautista will do his job well after being handpicked by the President himself.

Duterte, who is back in Davao City, was not present in the turnover ceremony, but his executive secretary, Salvador Medialdea attended on his behalf.

http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/07/02/New-PSG-Commander-Rolando-Bautista-assumes-post.html

DFA chief: Phl committed to implementing EDCA

From the Philippine Star (Jul 2): DFA chief: Phl committed to implementing EDCA



The Duterte administration is committed to the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States and is not planning to have it reviewed, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said yesterday. Perfecto Yasay/Facebook

The Duterte administration is committed to the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States and is not planning to have it reviewed, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said yesterday.

“I don’t believe that there is any move for us to review EDCA,” Yasay said in his first press conference.

In Washington, the State Department said the US is looking forward to working with Duterte.

Leaders of militant groups met with President Duterte on Thursday at Malacañang after his inauguration and called for a review of the EDCA, the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and the 1950s-era US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.

Yasay explained a review of any provisions of EDCA should be in accordance with a process mutually agreed upon by parties, noting that the Supreme Court upheld the legality of the defense arrangement last January.

“There has been no request from any of the parties to EDCA to review the same document,” Yasay said. “So on that basis I will categorically say to you that EDCA stands firm and the Supreme Court upheld its constitutionality.”
 
In his inaugural speech, Duterte vowed to respect international treaties and obligations entered into by the Philippines.

Yasay said he does not know of anyone in the Cabinet who does not fully subscribe to the President’s declaration that “we are firm in our commitments with respect to our international agreements and treaty obligations.”

“I know everyone in the Cabinet strongly supports the President on this matter,” he pointed out.

Yasay stressed that while the President is the architect of foreign policy, he is obliged by the Constitution to uphold and protect foreign relations for the sake of national interest, sovereignty and right to self-determination.

“So in that regard, the matter of making sure that our relationship with everybody is also maintained,” he said.

He maintained that while the Philippines has a special relationship with the US, it also has special ties to preserve and enhance with China despite the latter’s claiming waters within Philippine jurisdiction.

“It is our objective to make sure that everybody, as mandated by the Constitution, adheres to the principles of international law and the rule of law. We will pursue resolution of conflicts with them within the context allowed by our Constitution,” Yasay said.

“So I don’t see any relationship or any conflict with what President Duterte said that we’d like to be friends with China. It doesn’t mean we’ll be the enemy of the US. We’ll be friends of both China, the US, Japan and any other country that would like to be friends with us,” he said.

He gave assurance the country’s relationship with the US would continue to flourish and Manila would always be willing to accept assistance from its superpower ally, just as it would from China.

But the Philippines, he said, would not take any offer that is inconsistent with the country’s interest.

“So we’ll be looking in a very objective manner in our desire to carry on an independent, balanced and pragmatic foreign policy.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said EDCA has very clear benefits for the Philippines. In addition to strengthening the Philippines’ defense capabilities, it also allows for enhanced inter operability with the defense systems of security partners.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/07/02/1598755/dfa-chief-phl-committed-implementing-edca

Abu Sayyaf wants to talk to Duterte admin for negotiation

From the Philippine Star (Jul 2): Abu Sayyaf wants to talk to Duterte admin for negotiation



An earlier file image posted on Site Intel Group’s Twitter account shows Abu Sayyaf members with the Samal Island hostages

The Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf group holding hostage foreign nationals expressed desire to talk to the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, according to its spokesman.
But the Abu Sayyaf warned of executing the last Samal captive Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad should the government refused.

Muammar Askali alias Abu Rami, spokesman of the Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf group, said over a local radio DXRZ on Friday that they have opened the line for the government to have a dialogue with them.  
Askali said they particularly want Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza to negotiate with them and relay their grievances to Duterte.

The spokesman declined to divulge their “concessions” from the government except to Dureza whom they want to initiate the talks.

Askali said they would be forced to execute Sekkingstad if they do not hear from the government starting Friday until Saturday next week.
“If they will just disregard us, as soon as possible, we will no longer issue any ultimatum we will execute him (Sekkingstad),” Askali said.
Askali didn’t mention anything about their new seven Indonesian captives.

The Abu Sayyaf group earlier demanded P300 million ransom in exchange for the release of Sekkingstad.

The group beheaded Sekkingstad’s fellow captives, Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, but released Filipina Marites Flor last week following alleged payment of huge ransom.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/07/02/1598812/abu-sayyaf-wants-talk-duterte-admin-negotiation

MILF: Duterte’s federalism may not solve Bangsamoro problem

From GMA News (Jul 2): MILF: Duterte’s federalism may not solve Bangsamoro problem

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has pitched anew for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in Congress despite President Rodrigo Duterte's pronouncement that only federalism can bring peace to Mindanao.

"We say that federalization per se may solve the general problem of the country but we feel that it may or may not solve the specific problem in the Bangsamoro homeland," MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim told reporters following the signing of a Joint Communique for Peace with the Moro National Liberation Front at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on June 29.

"We will still push for the continuity of peace process and then the implementation (of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro), because we said practically the negotiation has already ended. It's a matter of implementation of the agreement (through BBL)," Murad said.

The BBL seeks the creation of a new autonomous region that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the entity created after the government reached a peace deal with Misuari's MNLF.

The BBL, however, failed to take off in the 16th Congress amid suspicion that MILF members were involved in the botched Mamasapano anti-terror operation in January 2015, which resulted in the death of 67 people, including 44 Special Action Force troopers.

Offering federalism as an alternative, Duterte, then a presidential candidate, repeatedly said his proposal will address injustices such as unequal distribution of wealth in Mindanao by allowing regions to keep most of their income, which could be used to develop poor areas.

Duterte believes that Moro rebels may like the idea of federalism as long as key aspects of the BBL are present.

The MILF and the MNLF had said they support the President's campaign for a shift to federalism.

Also, in their joint communique, the MILF and the MNLF promised "to work at common goals and objectives to engage" with the Duterte administration.

“As they join together, they declared a cohesive stand on their efforts to regain their lost freedom and self-determination so that they will enjoy the blessings of peace, justice and development," they said.

Duterte's allies, led by incoming House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, have already filed resolutions to jumpstart the debate on establishing a federal system of government.

The President, meanwhile, will meet with MILF leaders next week to follow through on the peace negotiations with the rebel group.

He also plans to visit MNLF founder Nur Misuari, who is said to be hiding in Sulu to escape prosecution for the bloody Zamboanga siege in September 2013.

Duterte previously met with MILF and MNLF leaders in Davao City weeks before he assumed the presidency on June 30. 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/572145/news/nation/milf-duterte-s-federalism-may-not-solve-bangsamoro-problem

Sulu rep. succumbs to liver cancer

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 1): Sulu rep. succumbs to liver cancer

The people of Sulu yesterday mourned the death of First District Rep. Habib Tupay Loong, who died of liver cancer in Manila at dawn yesterday. He was 69.

Rep. Habib Tupay Loong

Loong who was re-elected to his post in the May 9 polls, died at about 12:30 a.m. yesterday after being confined for more than a month at St. Lukes Hospital in Quezon City.

Loong was one of the founders of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and held a rank of commander before he quit in 1974.

His remains arrived in Zamboanga City shortly before 1 p.m. yesterday on a commercial flight from Manila.

Mourners trooped to the local airport here to meet his remains, which were brought to the family residence in Tumaga here.

After an hour, he was brought to Jolo, Sulu onboard a military fast craft for Muslim rites and interment.

http://www.mb.com.ph/sulu-rep-succumbs-to-liver-cancer/

Army presses offensive against NPAs in North Cotabato following clash that kills 2 rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): Army presses offensive against NPAs in North Cotabato following clash that kills 2 rebels

The military here has intensified its pursuit operations against a band of communist guerillas who have been harassing farmers in a remote village in North Cotabato.

Government forces belonging to 39th Infantry Battalion and New Peoples Army (NPA) clashed Friday dawn in Barangay Balite, Magpet, North Cotabato that left two rebels killed, according to Capt. Danny Boy Catapang.

Catapang, speaking for the 39th IB, said two high powered firearms were also seized during the 5 a.m. clash in Sitio Lukuakon, Balite and in nearby Sitio Boay-Boay, Barangay Basak, also in Magpet, one of the towns in North Cotabato infiltrated by communist rebels.

Tapang said residents of two sub-villages tipped off the military about the presence of heavily armed NPAs asking food supplies from farmers at gun point.

As the military was responding, they were fired upon by about 40 NPAs, triggering a brief fire fight.

Another fire fight erupted in nearby village when retreating guerillas clashed with another group of soldiers.

Government forces recovered one high powered firearms and improvised bomb making materials from slain rebels who remained unidentified.

No casualty was reported on government side, Catapang said.

Clearing operations are still on going after reports that NPAs from nearby villages in the borders of North Cotabato and Davao City have been massing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=900649

Soldier dies, 3 others injured in ambush; pursuit operations launched

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): Soldier dies, 3 others injured in ambush; pursuit operations launched
 

Troops were deployed to pursue a group of gunmen behind the ambush early Saturday that resulted in the death of a soldier and injured three others in Marawi City.

Maj. Filemon Tan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesman, disclosed the ambush took place around 3:30 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Buadi Sacayo, Marawi City.

Tan said the soldiers of the Bravo Company and Scout Platoon of the Army’s 65th Infantry Battalion and 51st Mechanized Company were traveling to the headquarters of the 103rd Infantry Brigade when ambushed by at least 10 gunmen.

Tan said the gunmen set off an improvised bomb and open fire while the soldiers, who were aboard a truck and armored personnel carriers, were passing the place.

He said the troops returned fire that triggered a 20-minute firefight after which the ambushers fled to different directions.

Tan did not release the identities of both the slain and wounded soldiers.

He said troops were tracking down the ambushers as of press time.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=900801

2 rebels killed in Cotabato clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): 2 rebels killed in Cotabato clash

Two New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed during a series of encounters in Magpet town, Cotabato Friday morning.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division spokeserson, said the first clash took place 4:40 a.m. at Sitio So Boay-boay, Barangay Basak and the second at 7:00 a.m. at Sitio Lucuakon, Barangay Balite.

He added that troops from the 39th Infantry Battalion were responding to rebel extortion activity reports in the above-mentioned areas when the clash took place.

In the ensuing firefight, two NPA members were killed with no losses to the government side.

Also recovered were one high-powered firearm, 19 improvised explosive devices, documents with high intelligence value, backpacks, personal belongings and the slain rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900713

Body of beheaded Canadian found in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): Body of beheaded Canadian found in Sulu

The body of Robert Hall, the Canadian national beheaded by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits last June 13, has been dug-up and recovered in Sulu Saturday morning.

Major Filemon Tan, Western Mindanao Command spokesperson, said Hall's decaying remains were recovered by troops of Joint Task Group (JTG) Sulu around 11:35 a.m. in Upper Kamuntayan, Talipao.

"The body is currently being brought by the troops to JTG Sulu Headquarters at Barangay Busbus, Jolo , Sulu for documentation before turn over to the PNP SOCO (scene-of-the-crime operatives)," he added.

Hall was beheaded by the ASG last June 13. His head was later recovered by civilians in front of the gate of the Jolo Cathedral.

Hall, together with John Ridsdel, Kjartan Sikkengstad and Marites Flor, was abducted last Sept. 21 at the Ocean View Resort in Barangay Camudmud, Samal City, Davao Del Norte.

Sikkengstad is the only remaining kidnap victim with the ASG as Flor was freed by her kidnappers last week.

The Western Mindanao Command decries the barbaric act of the ASG in beheading its captives which can be described as contrary to the Islamic teachings.

Focused military operations in the area are being undertaken to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf members and possibly rescue the remaining kidnap victim.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900750

Duterte reiterates desire to end war with rebel groups

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): Duterte reiterates desire to end war with rebel groups

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led on Friday the change of command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo where he reiterated his desire to end the atrocities with the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People Army (CPP-NPA), Moro International Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

President Duterte, in his speech during the AFP change of command, reiterated that his primary duty for the country as the president is not to go to war but to bring peace to the land. “It is not a war to be fought forever. We cannot fight forever. We might have the weapons, the armaments, and the bullets, mortars…… My job is to bring peace but hand in hand I must also bring order in my country.”

He mentioned that even before he was proclaimed president, he was already busy going around Mindanao talking to people, encouraging them to help bring peace in the country.

The President mentioned Jose Maria Sison, whom he wants to talk to, to bring about an inclusive government.

“It behooves upon me and I think to really look for the answer and I can hack it, and if can talk to Maria Sison and bring about — not a coalition government — an inclusive government.”

Adding that he plans to talk to the MILF and the MNLF to discuss about peace.

“Next week, we are to talk and eventually I think I’ll have to travel to Jolo to talk to Nur [Misuari]. I’m willing to give them safe conduct passes, only the leaders. At baka matsambahan ko na magkaroon tayo ng mapayapa (I might be lucky to achieve the peace). And if that happens really, I can retire happy and I can look back and say that I did my duty in nation building.”

Aside from this, the President wants to suppress and eliminate the proliferation of illegal drugs in the society.

He warned drug lords and criminals to stop their thing, for he will be harsh to them.

President Duterte then promised to eliminate the drug lords and put to stop what is happening inside the national penitentiary (bilibid).

He recalled of the promise he made during his final rally in Luneta where he said “I will put at stake my honor, my life and the presidency,” in fulfilling his campaign promise to stop criminality and atrocities in the country.

President Duterte led the turn-over of command from acting Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Glorioso Miranda to Lt. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya, who assumed the leadership yesterday.

Visaya believes that by stroke of faith, the six-month duration under the new administration will lay down the bedrock of foundation for security and defense as he promised to embark on a people-centered approach as they involve even in various rebel factions towards nation building.

Aside from that, Visaya said that the AFP will also intensify its support to law enforcement agencies and will build alliances with its counterparts to bring down syndicates and other organized crime groups.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900775

Pres. Duterte supports Gen. Dela Rosa, warns police vs. illegal activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): Pres. Duterte supports Gen. Dela Rosa, warns police vs. illegal activities

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte reiterated his confidence in Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa as the new leader of the country’s police force. During the change of command at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, the President expressed his support for Dela Rosa, who carries a track record of excellence.

“In selecting the PNP Director General and these sensitive positions that have something to do with the enforcement of laws and the punitive actions that are available in that office, most of those I have appointed were former police directors of the City of Davao,” Duterte said.

He added “these are the guys who went through their careers passing by Davao, and these are the only guys that I knew and I have worked closely and had the time to observe their character and integrity.”

Speaking before the members of the diplomatic corps, other police officers, and their family members, Duterte said he told Dela Rosa “huwag tayong mapahiya sa Pilipino” (let’s not disappoint the Filipinos). He likewise assured the PNP chief that “I will protect you in all of your undertakings and adventures. As a law enforcement guy, I will be there to protect you. I will provide you the funds.

I will provide the weapons needed to fight criminality, particularly drugs.”

A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, Dela Rosa is the first member of the class to get the four-star rank, the most number of stars in the organization. He and the President go back a long way and have similar advocacy, working hand in hand in making Davao City peaceful.

As the nation’s top cop, Dela Rosa will be the law enforcement component of Duterte’s war on criminality, drugs and corruption. Like a father ordering his son to do good, the President performed gestures such as dusting Dela Rosa’s Pershing cap and uniform while whispering words that made the PNP chief chuckle.

In his acceptance speech, Dela Rosa introduced his family and made special mention of his mother, who could hardly put him through school. He said, “Nay, hindi mo ako mapag-aral noon kasi walang pambaon pero 4-star general na ako ngayon!” (Mom, you could not put me through school because I had no “baon” but now, I’m a 4-star general)

The PNP chief added,” If Mayor Duterte’s presidency is destiny, then my becoming the Chief PNP is also destiny which only God can make possible. So I think this as a God-given mission–to become President Duterte’s right hand man in his fight against drugs, criminality, and corruption in order to provide each and every Filipino a safe, secure, and comfortable life.”

General Dela Rosa said, “to our beloved President, words are not enough to express my gratitude for your unwavering trust and confidence in me. I pledge to you our endless and unquestionable loyalty. Being the Chief PNP comes only once so I better give it my all and give it my best shot. I will not fail you! Itotodo ko na ito (I’ll do my very best) and I swear I will not fail you, Mr. President.”

Dela Rosa considers himself a father who rules by way of reward and punishment. “It is either you are with me or you are not with me. If you are with me then, let’s do it but if you are not with me, then you are finished!”

Known for his staunch anti-crime stance, he warned criminals in jest, “I will change your birthday to November 2! Bilang na ang araw ninyo! (Your days are numbered).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900774

AFP Chief presides PSG turnover of command; rallies protection of Pres., VP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 2): AFP Chief presides PSG turnover of command; rallies protection of Pres., VP

Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Ricardo R. Visaya on Saturday called on the Presidential Security Group (PSG) to remain steadfast on their sworn duties to secure and protect President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the First Family and Vice President Leni Robredo and her Family.

Visaya presided over the Changing of Guards of the PSG from Rear Admiral Raul Ubando to Colonel Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, both members of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Sandiwa Class ’85.

“I urge all of you to support your new Commander. Extend your cooperation and exhibit your best performances you are known for. Ensure the safety of our key policymakers and decision makers,” Visaya said.

He added “they toil so much to arrive at crucial decisions to steer our country forward and build the nation. They as much deserve to be protected and secured to freely do their respective jobs. We owe it to them and to the people to guarantee their security and protection from threat and harm.”

Visaya said that with the brand of service the new PSG Commander is known for, he is confident that Bautista will be able to deliver his mandate.

As the new AFP chief of staff congratulated Ubando, who will assume a new post as Inspector General of the Philippine Navy and boost Colonel Bautista, he said “the Philippines had the privilege to accommodate many important events in the course of the past two years. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation 2015, for instance, was a shining moment for the PSG.”

“The defense unit endured and won against threats to the safety of 20 high-level foreign leaders and around 10,000 other members of the delegation. From their cordial welcome to their safe send-off, we credit the success of the two-day international conference to the competence, commitment and professionalism exhibited by every member of the PSG.”

“We trust Colonel Bautista to ably do the share as he will lead this PSG, not only in thwarting all categories of threats, but equally so by continuing the legacy of protecting key figures that our people trust to lead this country and bring this nation to live in an atmosphere of peace, stability and development,” Visaya said.

The turnover ceremonies was held at the Command’s Headquarters in Malacanang Park was also witnessed by Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea , representatives from the major service commands of the AFP, immediate family of PMA Class ’85.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=900809