"Study the terrorist" Pres. Duterte tells military

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): "Study the terrorist" Pres. Duterte tells military

COMPOSTELA VALLEY - President Rodrigo Dutertetold officials and elements of the Philippine Army to closely study the profile of a terrorist as he geared them to  prepare for possible terror offensives.

He told them not to ask at what instance a terrorist will come but he said “It will come”.

“Start to profile a bomber or a terrorist. Naka “cap”; naka “shades”. Pag-aralan, lalo na ang mata. Malikot ang matang terorista,” he said during his visit at the headquarters of the 10th Inf Division of the Philippine Army at Camp General Manuel Yan Sr in Barangay Tuburan, Municipality of Mawab, Compostela Valley.

He also told them to study crime and detection and “how to deal with them”, referring to the terrorists.

Along with the task to gear up against terrorism, President Duterte reassured them that those in the military will “get everything that you need”.

The President was applauded by the troops present during his visit when he said that they will be provided with Glock 30, a type of .45 caliber sidearm.

The President wanted to strengthen the military alongside with the  police in his campaign against illegal drugs and terrorism.

“Sabi ko nga (As I have said) I  cannot run a country with a weak armed forces,” he said. 

After his 45-minute speech at , President Duterte joined the troops in a series  of photo-sessions before leaving for the next engagement  with local government officials in an event dubbed as “SulongPilipinas Local Government Dialogue” held at SMX Convention Center in Davao City.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591474436166/-study-the-terrorist-pres-duterte-tells-military-

Celebrating years of service in touching lives, defending peace

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): Celebrating years of service in touching lives, defending peace

The men and women of the 701st Brigade of the Philippine Army have celebrated their years of rendering genuine service in touching the lives of people and defending the peace and freedom of the country.

During the Brigade’s eight-year reactivation anniversary on September 16, the 701st Brigade received applause from top officials of thePhilippine Army and various sectorsfor playing a huge part in the preservation and sustaining of peace in Davao Oriental.

Guest-of-Honor and Speaker Major General Angelito M. De Leon, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, lauded the leadership of the 701st Brigade, under Col. Bienvenido R. Datuin, Jr. who successfully led his troops to become“instruments in the many campaigns of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in winning over the threats and obstacles to the development of the country”.

“Napakapalad ninyo at kayo ay nagkaroon ng isang aktibong masigasig na commander na buong tapang hinaharap ang mga bagay para sa inyong kapakanan,” he told the men and women of the 701st Brigade.He lauded Datuin’s leadership for successfully continuing the programs of his predecessors which paved the way for the strengthening of peace here in the province.

“Binabati ko si Col. Datuin sapagkat binuksan niya ang pintuan tungo sa mabuting pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga mamamayan ng kanyang nasasakupan,” he said, citing the brigade’s partnership with the different sectors leading to a lot of groundwork that has reached the people in the communities.

He also listed several accomplishments and milestones the brigade has gained over the recent years. Among these was the prestigious Gawad sa Kaunlaran Award for its successful implementation of the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) which relentlessly pursues socio-economic development and other non-violent means in winning against insurgencies.

This was conferred by no less than the commander-in-chief of the military, President Rodrigo R. Duterteduring the anniversary of the Eastern Mindanao Command.Just recently, the brigade also received a Command Plaque from the Army Reservist Command for efficiently tapping reservists in the activities of the military which has been boosting themilitary’s gains in preserving peace.

“You were recognized because of your valuable performance in taking the non-traditional military road to gain support from stakeholders in its exchange. This brigade has gained the accomplishments and progress in terms of civil military operations that significantly made impact in peace and development in this part of the country,” said De Leon.

“The 701st brigade has undoubtedly succeeded in touching and defending lives. Your courage is worthy without any reservations. You have served the people well with sincerity and gave them the freedom to perform their functions free from being cursed and intimidated.”

“Alam kong hindi madali ang inyong tungkuling itaguyod ang kapayapaan, ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng balakid kayo ay naging matagumpay sa pagpoprotekta sa mga naninirahan dito,” he said, noting the brigade’s efforts in implementing programs that uplifted the lives of the people. “The 7th Infantry Kaugnay Division is proud and honor all of you,” he said.

Working directly on the ground, the military knows first-hand the plight of the people, particularly those in the hinterlands. Working closely with the people led to the entry and efficient delivery of government development programs and services.

The military does a lot more than just preserving the peace. The extent of how strong and formidable the collaboration and partnership between the military and the Provincial Government that was forged was tested when Super Typhoon Pablo struck the province of Davao Oriental. The quick response and hard work that the military extended at the height of the disaster had saved the lives of many typhoon victims.

Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang praised the 701st brigade’s partnership with the Provincial Government in the implementation of the Bayanihan Program PDOP, which he says, has been changing the face of governance that was able to regain for the government the trust and confidence of communities.

“Working with scarce resources but driven by a sense of purpose, the people behind the Bayanihan program in the province have definitely redefined local governance and development that dramatically changed the lives of people,” he said.

For his part, Brigade Commander Col. Datuin thanked the military’s partners from the Local Government Units and various sectors ‘for believing and collaborating for the army’s covenant of peace and development’. “You are our strength and allies in accomplishing our vision and very core of existence.

“There were challenges, constraints and obstacles but we were able to do the job guided by our mantra of“building character, enhancing competence and strengthening convergence.

”We were focused, determined and motivated to deliver our core purpose of serving the people, securing Davao Oriental and parts of Compostela Valley Province.

Throughout its illustrious history, 701st Infantry Brigade has been a bastion and standard of excellence in both operational and administrative fields of performance. It has strived to contribute in 10th Infantry Division’s mission accomplishment and succeeded in modestly contributing in all lines of effort,” said Datuin.

Welcoming another page in the history of the brigade, the 701st Brigade Anniversary ended in a high note, ready to face another challenges to pursue the goals and vision of the Philippine Army in protecting and serving the people.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591474435219/celebrating-years-of-service-in-touching-lives-defending-peace

1CAV, PIA-9 recognized during 10th Mechanized Infantry Division anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): 1CAV, PIA-9 recognized during 10th Mechanized Infantry Division anniversary  

CAPAS, TARLAC – The 1st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Squadron was awarded this year as the “Best Cavalry Squadron” by the  Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army during the division’s 10th Activation Anniversary on Tuesday at Camp O’Donnel here.

Secretary Delfin Lorenzana of the Department of National Defense (DND), the event’s guest of honor and speaker presented the 1st Cavalry Squadron Streamer to Lt. Col. Charlemagne F. Batayola Jr., the commanding officer of 1CAV for its significant contributions to internal peace and security in Zamboanga Peninsula.

The 1CAV garnered the highest point in the field of personnel, intelligence, combat operations, logistics, civil military operations, and the judicious use of its resources from among the 12 units of the mechanized infantry division.

In receiving the award Batayola said: “I am overwhelmed to receive the ‘ extremely historic award’. I have been greatly overwhelmed by the support of the officers and men of the unit and most especially to our stakeholders.”

He attributed the unit’s success to the efforts of the officers and men who performed well in their duties and responsibilities.

Batayola said he did not expect that the unit would receive the award for it had received already the same award in the past two years.

With this award, Batayola said, it encouraged us to be more effective and efficient in reaching the unit’s mission- to protect and defend our nation.

“While the recognition is truly great, we won’t rest on our laurels. Going forward, we pledge to work even harder to continue bringing peace and stability that our people expect from us,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-IX, received the “Best Civilian Stakeholder” award for supporting the government’s peace initiatives.

The PIA has been an active partner of the unit in promoting peace in the region for a couple of years now.

Director General Harold Clavite personally received the plaque with PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga.

Clavite said he was extremely honored and appreciative for receiving the significant award. “We were humbled by a great compliment from our partner in peace and development especially the Mechanized Infantry Division,” Clavite concluded.

The 10th anniversary of the Mechanized Division has for its theme, “Celebrating a decade of relevance and sustaining the momentum towards a more, capable, reliable and modern mechanized force.”

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371474428715/1cav-pia-9-recognized-during-10th-mechanized-infantry-division-anniversary-

MNLF helped in release of 6 kidnap victims, successful operations vs Abus – military official

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): MNLF helped in release of 6 kidnap victims, successful operations vs Abus – military official

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) has been of help in the recent successful intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu and Basilan which resulted to the release of 6 kidnap victims – a Norwegian, 3 Indonesians and 2 Filipinos over the weekend, a military official here said.

Major Filemon Tan, spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the MNLF’s cooperation in the focused military operations has been instrumental in the release of the ASG kidnap victims Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, Indonesian fishermen Lorence Koten, Teo Doros Kofong and Emmanuel Arakian.

On Sunday (September 18), kidnapped Filipino telephone company contractors Daniela Taruc and Levy Gonzales were also freed.

“We coordinate with the MNLF, we inform them of our operations, and they would cooperate by leaving the areas so that there will be no misencounter,” Maj. Tan explained, “which has been very helpful in our focused military operations.”

He said that the military has already been expecting the recent release of the kidnap victims because “the ASG is already being pressured too much” due to the continuous “land, air, naval and police operations.”

“Takbo ng takbo na sila, we expected this,” he said. (They are on the run.)

According to Maj. Tan, the MNLF has been known to be helpful to the military. “They have been engaged in encounters with the ASG, even resulting to the death of one ASG commander.”     
                                                                      
The ASG still has 16 remaining hostages, according to Maj. Tan.  

Meanwhile, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar clarified earlier that the government maintains the no ransom policy, and that they are not aware if an alleged Php100-million ransom for Sekkingstad’s liberty was paid by the family.

It can be recalled that Sekkingstad’s companions, Robert Hall and John Ridsel were beheaded in April and June by the ASG. They were kidnapped by the terror group in Samal Island together with Filipina Marites Flor last year.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2651474359429/mnlf-helped-in-release-of-6-kidnap-victims-successful-operations-vs-abus-military-official

Ceasefire holding on, GRP gearing for next round of peace talks

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 22): Ceasefire holding on, GRP gearing for next round of peace talks

Close to a month after the Philippine government and the communist rebels reopened peace negotiations, the unilateral ceasefires declared by both parties appear to be holding on with no reports of major clashes and incidents.

Government (GRP) chief negotiator and Labor Secretary Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello III said he is optimistic a bilateral agreement will be reached and put in place when the second round of peace negotiations is resumed on October 4-10, also in Oslo, Norway.

“It is indicative of the sincerity of both parties in the (peace) process which augurs well for peace,” Bello said of the lull in the fighting.

It can be recalled that President Rodrigo Duterte restored a unilateral and indefinite ceasefire on the eve of the formal resumption of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF) on August 21 to create a favorable condition for the negotiations.

The NDF in return extended its 7-day goodwill ceasefire (August 21-27) to also declare its own unilateral and indefinite ceasefire when the first round of talks in Oslo ended on August 26.

This indefinite unilateral ceasefire from the NPA is considered “historic and unprecedented.” The NPA said it is inspired by the release of the 22 detained NDF consultants, the most number of prisoners released by the government to date.

In the 30-year history of government peace negotiations with the CPP/NPA/NDF, the talks have been disrupted for at least 15 times. The breakdown in the talks was mainly due to two issues: the release of detained NDF consultants and declaration of ceasefire. With both issues addressed, the formal resumption of peace talks on August 22-28 in Oslo was made possible.

Ceasefire was one of agenda items taken up by both panels during the Oslo talks.

Both parties agreed to submit drafts for the formal bilateral ceasefire agreement when the negotiations resume in the first week of October.

“Hopefully, this will ripen to a bilateral and permanent ceasefire and finally the end of hostilities,” Bello said.

In close to 50 years of guerrilla war launched by the NDF, through its armed wing the New People’s Army (NPA), more than 150,000 people have been killed in armed clashes and violent incidents.

The Philippine military said the NPA has been reduced to less than 4,000 armed regulars scattered all over the Philippine archipelago.

But in Oslo, NDF panel chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni claimed they have 10,000 armed regulars operating in more than 120 guerrilla fronts that cover more than 72 provinces.

The GRP-NDF formal talks are entering the more substantive phase of the peace negotiations with both parties submitting outlines and drafts on social and economic reforms and political and constitutional reforms in the next round.

Both parties will also take up a proposed amnesty proclamation for all listed detained NDF members.

The cessation of hostilities and disposition of forces will also be tackled simultaneously during the talks.

The parties earlier agreed to accelerate the peace process with the government peace panel expressing confidence that a final peace agreement will be signed within a year.

The GRP and NDF panels agreed to move the Oslo second round of talks earlier from the original date of October 8-12 to October 6-10. (OPAPP)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141474447018/ceasefire-holding-on-grp-gearing-for-next-round-of-peace-talks

US Navy warship fires NATO missile in Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Sep 21): US Navy warship fires NATO missile in Philippine Sea



United States Navy Wasp-class Amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) successfully engaged a target drone with a NATO Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile during a fleet firing exercise in Philippine Sea off the coast of the United States territory of Guam as part of the exercise, Valiant Shield 2016 (VS16), September 18.

The Philippine Sea is a marginal sea east and northeast of the Philippines occupying an estimated surface area of 5 million km² of the western part of the North Pacific Ocean.  

 

It is bordered by the Philippine archipelago (Luzon, Catanduanes, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao) on the southwest; Halmahera, Morotai, Palau, Yap, and Ulithi (of the Carolines) on the southeast; the Marianas, including Guam, Saipan, and Tinian, on the east; the Bonin and Iwo Jima on the northeast; the Japanese islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyūshū on the north; the Ryukyu Islands on the northwest; and Taiwan in the west.

 

“It’s been five years since the last time we fired our NATO system and it operated perfectly,” said Bonhomme Richard’s combat systems maintenance manager Senior Chief Fire Controlman Joshua Patat. “I’ve seen four NATO launches in my career, and I have to say this was the best and smoothest one I’ve ever seen. The drone ran its course as we planned, the system tracked it the whole way, and NATO killed it just as the system was designed to do.”

US Navy gathered its forces from the Pacific Command (USPACOM) to participate in exercise VS16 from September 12 to 23 on Guam and around the Marianas Island Range Complex.

According to USPACOM, Valiant Shield is a biennial field training exercise (FTX) with a focus on integration of joint training in a blue-water environment exclusively for US force.

“This training enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land, and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas,” USPACOM said. “The range of capabilities include maritime security operations, anti-submarine and air defense exercises, amphibious operations, and other elements of complex warfighting.”

http://www.update.ph/2016/09/us-navy-warship-fire-nato-missile-in-philippine-sea/9587

Duterte to give pistols to all 120,000 PH soldiers

From Rappler (Sep 21): Duterte to give pistols to all 120,000 PH soldiers

Over 120,000 new pistols will be purchased from Israel, says the President

 

PROMISES TO MILITARY. President Duterte visits the 10th Infantry Division in Mawab, Compostela Valley on September 20, 2016. Photo by Karl Normal Alonzo/PPD

President Rodrigo Duterte is giving additional guns to all 120,000 soldiers in the Philippine military.

“I have decided to arm you all, all enlisted men and women, side arms. It’s the Glock caliber .45, Glock 30,” Duterte said on Tuesday, September 20, during a visit to a military camp in Mawab, Compostela Valley.

 

His announcement was greeted with applause from his audience of soldiers.

 

The Glock 30 .45 caliber pistols will be purchased from Israel, said Duterte. He did not explain where the funds for this will come from.

 

“You should get it as fast as Israel can produce it. I am buying so ilan kayo? Almost 130…120,000 plus. So that’s 120,000. Bibilin ko ‘yan para sa inyo,” he said. (I am buying so how many are you? Almost 130…120,000 plus. So that’s 120,0000. I’ll buy them for you.)

 

Duterte previously said he had instructed Department of National Defense officials to go to China and Russia to buy military equipment. This time, he added India and Israel as possible sources of defense assets.

 

“Ngayon, lahat ng anti-terrorism equipment, marami na ang nagpunta: China, India, Israel. Sabi ko there will be only at least one or two source sa ating intelligence equipment,” he said. (Now, all our anti-terrorism equipment, many have gone to China, India, Israel. I said there will be only at least one or two sources of our intelligence equipment.)

 

Duterte has been visiting military camps all over the country since his 3rd week in power. During these visits, he speaks to soldiers assuring them of his loyalty, explaining the need for the government to talk to communist and Moro rebels, and making promises to take care of the military.

 

The President has promised to raise their salaries and add 20,000 more soldiers to the armed forces, to buy state-of-the-art military equipment, to improve military health facilities, and to protect soldiers from jail time should cases be filed against them for their actions while “performing their duty.”

 

He has also visited military hospitals, giving cash assistance and medals to soldiers wounded in action.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/146878-duterte-glock-30-pistols-soldiers

Duterte to troops: Massacre criminals, I’ll promote you

From Rappler (Sep 21): Duterte to troops: Massacre criminals, I’ll promote you

In the same speech, Duterte tells soldiers he will never order them to do anything illegal



TALK TO TROOPS. President Duterte speaks to troops of the 10th Infantry Division in Mawab, Compostela Valley. Photo by Karl Norman Alonzo/PPD

President Rodrigo Duterte reminded Philippine soldiers that no matter how many criminals they kill in the line of duty, he will pardon them and even give them a promotion.

“For as long as there is the power to pardon sa Constitution, ‘yan ang weapon ko (that’s my weapon) against crime. Mag-massacre kayo ng isang daan, isang daan din kayo, eh di pardon lahat kayo (Massacre 100 people, I’ll pardon all of you) – restore to full political and civil rights plus a promotion to boot,” said Duterte on Tuesday, September 20.

 

He was speaking to soldiers of the 10th Infantry Division in a military camp in Mawab, Compostela Valley. (READ: Why has Duterte visited 14 military camps in less than a month?)

 

“Itaga ninyo ito sa puso ninyo (Carve this into your hearts): For as long as I am the president, nobody but nobody – no military man or policeman will go to prison because they performed their duties,” he emphasized.

 

Duterte instructed soldiers to kill criminals whether or not they pull out a gun. Previously, he had said to shoot criminals only if they violently resist arrest.

 

“Pagka bumunot, patayin mo. Pag hindi bumunot, patayin mo rin putang ina para matapos na. Eh kaysa mawala pa ‘yung baril. Ako na ang bahala sa inyo,” he said.

(If they pull out a gun, kill them. If they don’t, kill them, son of a whore so it’s over, lest you lose the gun. I’ll take care of you.)

 

No 'illegal' orders

 

But Duterte later on said he would never order the military to do something illegal.

 

“Hindi ako mag-order ng illegal. ‘Wag kayong maniwala diyan. (I won’t order anything illegal. Don’t believe that.) I did not order you and the police to perform punitive police action. I have declared war against the drug syndicates in this country. You know what is war. War is war,” said the President.

 

Duterte’s colorful threats against criminals have led critics, including international bodies like the United Nations and the European Parliament, to raise concern over what the Philippine government's policy is when it comes to extrajudicial killings.

 

 

THEIR COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. Soldiers listen to President Duterte deliver his speech on September 20, 2016. Photo by Karl Norman Alonzo/PPD

As early as the 2016 campaign season, Duterte had already said he would pardon military and police officers if they are charged for deaths that occur as they perform their duty.

 

Asked to comment on Duterte’s conflicting messages to soldiers and police, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said on September 15 that Duterte’s messages are “layered.”

 

He also said that despite Duterte’s verbal threats, “There is no written order that states that. What is stated is that they can shoot in order to protect themselves.”

 

The Palace has clarified that extrajudicial killings are not sanctioned by the Duterte administration. 

 

Duterte’s war on drugs has killed at least 3,295 people since July 1, a day after he took office. Of this number, 1,167 have been killed in legitimate police operations as of September 20.

 

Meanwhile, 2,128 have been slain in extrajudicial or vigilante-style killings as of September 18.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/146890-duterte-troops-massacre-promotion

AFP chief vows to 'decimate' Abu Sayyaf in 3 months

From Rappler (Sep 21): AFP chief vows to 'decimate' Abu Sayyaf in 3 months

AFP chief General Ricardo Visaya says he intends to meet his target before he retires in December



DECIMATE. AFP chief General Ricardo Visaya vows to 'decimate, neutralize' the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf before he retires on December 8, 2016. Photo by Camille Elemia/Rappler

Armed Forces chief General Ricardo Visaya vowed to “neutralize” and “decimate” the Abu Sayyaf group before he retires on December 8.

Visaya, who was the Army battalion commander during the 2004 bloody clashes with Hacienda Luisita workers, was appointed on July 1, 2016. He is set to retire on December 8, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 for the military.

Despite the short stint, Visaya is confident he can neutralize the terrorist group based in Mindanao which has been mostly involved in kidnap-for-ransom activities. He said he would channel all his energy in his last 3 months as AFP chief to fight them.

“Not really drive away (Abu Sayyaf) but neutralize them. That’s why...most of our resources are dedicated to them,” Visaya said after his confirmation hearing before the Commission on Appointments on Wednesday, September 21.

“Ang goal namin diyan (Our goal there is) no more hostages; Abu Sayyaf will be decimated,” he said, saying that is the "tall order of the President."

At present, Visaya said the terrorist group still has 16 hostages under its custody – 6 Indonesians, 5 Malaysians, 4 Filipinos, and one Dutch.

Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad was released on September 16, a year he and 3 others were abducted in Samal Island in Davao del Norte in September 2015.

Chief Peace Adviser Jesus Deruza said Moro National Liberation Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari and former Sulu governor Sakur Tan, "and other volunteers" helped facilitate Sekkingstad's release. There are unconfirmed reports that ransom was paid.
Visaya said a third of the Philippine Army has beend eployed to Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, and Jolo to eliminate the terrorist group.

"With the rate we are going ano na eh, nagiging we are towards that end eh. Kasi biruin mo, starting last August we have neutralized 57 (With the rate we are going, it's like we are towards the end. Just imagine, starting last August, we have neutralized 57)," he said.

The Abu Sayyaf, he said, has about 400 forces on the ground.

Short stint enough?

Visaya is staying as chief-of-staff for only 5 months, amid the government’s intensified fight against illegal drugs and terrorism.

Asked if his short stint would jeopardize this, Visaya acknowledged the need to extend the term of office of AFP chiefs.

“Kaya after this, inaano ko rin naman 'yan na it should be longer 'yung term ng chief of staff. Although the law says you can continue not beyond 3 years that’s the prerogative of the President,” Visaya said. (That's why after this, I am pushing that the term of the chief of staff should be longer. Although the law says you can continue not beyond 3 years, that's the prerogative of the president.)

He, however, pointed out the President has the discretion to extend his appointment not more than 3 years past retirement age.

He noted that out of 47 chiefs-of-staff of the AFP, there were “about 10” generals whose terms were extended by the sitting president.

Is he expecting to be extended by President Duterte? “No naman… kasi (Not really because) that is always prerogative of the President," he said.

Beyond Hacienda Luisita, Visaya is said to be an effective counter-insurgency commander. He was closely associated with his superior at the time, the now detained Major General Jovito Palparan, who was 7th Infantry Division chief in charge of Army units in Central Luzon. Palparan faces various charges of human rights violations allegedly committed under the Arroyo government.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/146896-afp-ricardo-visaya-decimate-abu-sayyaf-3-months

CA confirms AFP chief Visaya, 24 others despite SALN 'issues'

From Rappler (Sep 21): CA confirms AFP chief Visaya, 24 others despite SALN 'issues'

San Juan Representative Ronaldo Zamora says, 'Even if there is no opposition to your appointment, there are some issues being raised about your nominations'



CONFIRMED. The Commission on Appointments confirms the appointment of AFP Chief of Staff General Ricardo Visaya and 24 other military officials. Photo by Camille Elemia/Rappler

The Commission on Appointments confirmed the appointment of Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Ricardo Visaya and 24 other military officials on Wednesday, September 21.

Visaya, who will serve as AFP chief until December 8 only, was confirmed without any opposition from the body.

While this is the case, San Juan Representative Ronaldo Zamora, however, raised some issues involving the military’s Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth (SALN).

“Some of you have made mistakes. Some of you did not file correct SALNs. Some of you did not include transactions that should be included. All of these are in a report, which I will send to each one of you,” Zamora said during the hearing of the CA panel on national defense.

These, however, are mere “issues” and not "formal" dissent.

“Even if there is no opposition to your appointment, there are some issues being raised about your nominations. (These are) not formal oppositions, these are issues,” he added.

Visaya, for his part, said they would “rectify” the errors.

“Kumpleto naman ‘yan kaya lang minsan yung pagkafill-up, nagkaproblema,” he told reporters after the hearing. (That's complete but sometimes we have problems with how they were filled out.)

Visaya, who was the Army battalion commander during the 2004 bloody clashes with Hacienda Luisita workers, was appointed on July 1, 2016. He is set to retire on December 8, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 for the military.

Despite the short stint, Visaya is confident he can neutralize the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf based in Mindanao, which has been involved mostly in kidnap-for-ransom activities. He said he would channel all his energy in his last 3 months as AFP chief to fight them. (READ: AFP chief vows to 'decimate' Abu Sayyaf in 3 months)

Beyond Hacienda Luisita, Visaya is said to be an effective counter-insurgency commander. He was closely associated with his superior at the time, the now detained Major General Jovito Palparan, who was 7th Infantry Division chief in charge of Army units in Central Luzon.

Palparan faces various charges of human rights violations allegedly committed under the Arroyo administration.

Other confirmed military officers

The CA also confirmed the following officers:
 
1. Alexander Macario – to the grade of Brigadier General
2. Jonathan Manuel – to the grade of Colonel, Medical Corps
3. Dante Hidalgo – to the grade of Brigadier General
4. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr – to the grade of Lieutenant General
5. Ramon Ochoco – to the grade of Commodore
6. Virme Torralba – to the grade of Rear Admiral
7. Raul Del Rosario – to the grade of Lieutenant General
8. Ernesto Enriquez – to the grade of Rear Admiral
9. Leandro Loyao III – to the grade of Brigadier General
10. Antonio Ramon Lim – to the grade of Brigadier General
11. Rommel Jude Ong – to the grade of Commodore
12. Allan Ferdinand Cusi – to the grade of Commodore
13. Arnel Duco – to the grade of Brigadier General
14. Felimon Santos Jr – to the grade of Brigadier General
15. Jose Ariel Niembra – to the grade of Colonel, Philippine Army
16. Narciso Vingson Jr – to the grade of Rear Admiral
17. Rozzano Briguez – to the grade of Major General
18. Jose Mirandilla Jr – to the grade of Major General
19. Rolando Acop – to the grade of Brigadier General
20. Cesar Idio – to the grade of Brigadier General
21. Allen Paredes – to the grade of Brigadier General
22. Harold Cabreros – to the grade of Major General
23. Ronald Villanueva – to the grade of Brigadier General
24. Arthur Blanca – to the grade of Brigadier General

http://www.rappler.com/nation/146911-commission-on-appointments-ricardo-visaya-afp

Millions of dollars paid to free Indonesian hostages

From Rappler (Sep 21): Millions of dollars paid to free Indonesian hostages

EXCLUSIVE: Despite the denial of the Philippine and Indonesian governments that ransom was paid, millions of dollars were given to the Abu Sayyaf Group for the release of Indonesian hostages over the past few months   

At early dawn on Sunday, September 18, 3 Indonesian sailors were escorted to the shoreline of the southern Philippine province of Sulu and were released by Muslim rebels after over two months in captivity.

Their release came just two days after Norwegian hostage, Kjartan Sekkingstad, was freed. Sekkingstad was also held by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu for a year, after being kidnapped in a Samal resort off Davao City in September 2015.

 

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte credited the safe release of Sekkingstad and the Indonesian hostages to the efforts of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari who facilitated their release, Chief Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza, and former Sulu governor Sakur Tan.

 

No ransom payment was mentioned.

 

A week before he took his oath as president on June 30, 2016, Duterte met with the Norwegian ambassador to Manila and vowed to help in negotiations for the release of Sekkingstad.

 

On August 25, Duterte said P50 million or $1 million (Rp 13 billion) had been paid for the Norwegian's release. This was confirmed to Rappler by a Philippine intelligence official after Sekkingstad’s release, who said P20 million or $418,143 (Rp 5.4 billion) was given to the MNLF, and P30 million or $627,215 (Rp 8.2 billion) to the ASG.

The same source said P20 million was paid for the release of the 3 Indonesians, “but the official line or scenario is that the rescue was made by the MNLF.”

 

2016 income: $7.4M

 

Despite repeated denials by the Philippine and Indonesian governments that any ransom was paid for the release of the Indonesians, classified Philippine intelligence documents obtained by Rappler show that a total of P120 million or $2.5 million (Rp 32.9 billion) has been paid to the Abu Sayyaf Group for the release of 17 Indonesian hostages since May.

 

But what's more shocking is the total earnings from ransom payments of the ASG in 2016 alone.

 

Calculations made by Rappler, based on the documents and the most recent ransom amount paid for the release of the Norwegian and the 3 Indonesians, show that the Abu Sayyaf earned a whopping P354.1 million or $7.4 million (Rp 97.5 billion) minimum just this year.

 

Of that amount, at least P324.1 million or $6.7 million (Rp 89.1 billion) was earned from ransom payments for Southeast Asian seafarers.

 

 

FREE. Lieutenant General Mayoralgo dela Cruz, Westmincom chief (2nd from right); with the freed Indonesian hostages (in blue) and Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu in Zamboanga City on September 18, 2016. Rappler sourced photo

 

Lucrative business

 

The Abu Sayyaf is a loose network of bandits and militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network.

 

It is based in remote Muslim populated southern islands of the mainly Catholic Philippines such as Sulu and Basilan, and has earned millions of dollars from kidnap-for-ransom activities, often targeting foreigners.

 

While its leaders have in recent years pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) group, analysts say the group is mainly focused on a lucrative kidnapping business rather than religious ideology.

 

The group, which is blamed for the worst terror attacks in Philippine history and listed by the United States as a terrorist organization, has been the target of a military operation since August.

 

In the last few months, the ASG has been responsible for a spate of kidnappings in the Sulu Sea – including that of at least 24 Indonesians.

 

Since then, 17 Indonesians have been released – including the 3 freed last week – 2 others escaped, while 5, who were kidnapped in June, remain in captivity. (The Philippine government has been quoted as saying 6 more are in captivity although it is unclear where the extra headcount is from.)

 

Documents show that all 17 who were released were freed only after paying ransom.

According to an intelligence report which narrated the abduction of the 10 Indonesian sailors in Tawi-Tawi from Brahma 12 Tugboat in March, Joel Mirasol, Operations Manager of the World Mariner Philippines, received a call from the ship owner of Brahma 12 tugboat and was told that the vessel was attacked by armed men who took 10 Indonesians.

 

 

 

SAFELY HOME. 10 Indonesian hostages are safely returned after ransom was paid. Photo by Santi Dewi/Rappler

During the conversation, the kidnappers demanded P50 million from the owner as ransom.

 

Another classified document chronicled the April abduction of 4 other Indonesian sailors, from Tugboat Henry, wherein it said kidnappings would not cease due to the huge ransom payments received by the Abu Sayyaf.

 

The 10 crewmen of Brahma 12 were eventually released on May 1 this year, while the 4 from tugboat Henry were freed on May 11.

 

Ransom paid

 

A subsequent document, which chronicled paid ransoms to the ASG from 2015 to the first quarter of 2016, said the Indonesians were released after hefty payments.

 

The report said P50 million or $1 million (Rp 13 billion) was paid for the release of the 10 crewmen of Brahma 12, while another P50 million was paid to free the 4 from tugboat Henry.

 

But it was a later intelligence document that highlighted the lucrativeness of the ASG's kidnap-for-ransom business.

 

By mid-2016, the report said a total of P304,151,071.79 ($6.4 million or Rp 83.5 billion) worth of estimated ransom payments had been received by the Abu Sayyaf from kidnapping Southeast Asians at sea.

Of that amount, P100 million or $2 million (Rp 27.5 billion) came from the ransom paid to release 14 Indonesians in May, while a huge P204,151,071.79 or $4.3 million (Rp 56 billion) was paid to release 4 Malaysian crewmen kidnapped from Tugboat Massive 6. They were released on June 8.

That amount, however, has yet to include the recent P30 million paid to the ASG for the Norwegian, and the P20 million for the 3 Indonesians.

Added together, the ransom amount so far paid to the Abu Sayyaf in 2016 alone totals at least P354.1 million or $7.4 million (Rp 97.5 billion).

 

‘No ransom policy’

 

The intelligence documents did not say who exactly paid the ransom for Indonesians, although reports point to the companies which employed the sailors, while other documents show the company owners or families are the first ones called by the kidnappers when asking for ransom.

 

While the governments have insisted no ransom was involved, some officials have started to admit that ransom could have been paid by other parties.

 

On Monday, September 19, Minister Ryacudu denied the Indonesian government paid ransom for the 3 hostages, but said he did not know if their families or employers did.

A similar sentiment was echoed by Philippines Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who said, "I would like to reiterate that the government maintains the no-ransom policy. Now, if a third party or the family gives ransom, we do not know."

 

MNLF got ransom too

 

Meanwhile, both the Philippine and Indonesian governments have publicly praised the MNLF for their assistance – but documents show the MNLF also received ransom payment.

 

 

FREED HOSTAGE. President Rodrigo Duterte thanks the MNLF for the release of Kjartan Sekkingstad (seated, 2nd from left) and the 3 Indonesians. Photo by Manman Dejeto/Rappler

  

Aside from the intelligence source who said the MNLF received P20 million for assisting with the Norwegian's release, another confidential report stated that the MNLF was sharing finances with the ASG, which helped fund its weapons and ammunitions.

 

It also warned of another possible "large scale attack" like the 2013 Zamboanga siege from the MNLF.

The MNLF also helped broker the release of the 14 Indonesians in May.

The involvement of the MNLF comes as Duterte seeks to revive peace talks with the group. Duterte had earlier said that he was planning to talk to Misuari as part of efforts to forge peace among warring groups in the country, but clarified last week that he would wait until 2017 since Misuari does not appear ready to negotiate at the moment.

Misuari, the 77-year-old MNLF leader, has a standing warrant of arrest for rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law in relation to the 2013 Zamboanga City siege which killed over 200 people and displaced thousands of others, many of whom still live in evacuation centers in the city.

 

Duterte has given Misuari assurances he would not be arrested or detained.

 

Misuari plotted the Zamboanga attack to protest the Aquino administration's talks with the MNLF's breakaway group, the bigger Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). (READ: Gov't, MILF sign historic peace plan)

 

Misuari and the MNLF had already signed a peace agreement with the Ramos government; he was elected governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as a result. The MNLF was also provided government posts and millions in livelihood projects under that deal.

 

Rogue MNLF members, however, have been involved in kidnapping in the past several years, sometimes jointly with the ASG.

 

Continued kidnappings

 

Duterte has sworn to eliminate the Abu Sayyaf, ordering the military to "destroy" the group in August after it beheaded a second Canadian hostage. The military has deployed more than 8,000 troops to Sulu, losing 15 of its men in a single battle last August.

 

An intelligence document, which assessed the Abu Sayyaf situation a few months ago, rings true.

 

The document said that ransom payment heightened the kidnapping for ransom of the Abu Sayyaf group.

 

It noted that the group’s strategy has changed, evolving from abduction across Zamboanga to piracy and kidnapping at sea of boats in international waters, and warned that the kidnappings would not stop, seeing that there was great dependence on ransom payments.

 

The report added that publicized beheadings appeared to be successful in convincing parties to pay ransom.

 

http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/indonesia/bahasa/englishedition/146840-abu-sayyaf-ransom-indonesian-hostages

Kidnappers slip past 10,000 troops

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 22): Kidnappers slip past 10,000 troops

BUSINESSWOMAN Martina Yee is examined at a military hospital in the Western Mindanao Command. JULIE S. ALIPALA/INQUIRER MINDANAO

 

Kidnappers were able to slip past at least 16 battalions of soldiers now posted in the province of Sulu where their latest victim, a businesswoman, had been brought and later freed in what the military said was a well-coordinated rescue effort.

Gunmen who took Martina Yee, a businesswoman from the town of Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte province, made it past more than 10,000 soldiers to take their captive to Sulu.

Yee was rescued in the town of Indanan, Sulu province, yesterday, two days after she was taken captive on Monday.

On Sunday, hours before the kidnapping of Yee, Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, chief of the military’s Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom), said at least 16 battalions of soldiers, “with different specializations,” are now posted in Sulu province to take part in the all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf, a terror and crime group behind a spate of kidnappings and terror attacks in parts of Mindanao.

“We have there Scout Rangers, the infantry battalions, special forces, to include our Air Force and naval assets,” Dela Cruz said.

MNLF support

“And we also know we have support from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF),” he  added.

Despite the heavy presence of soldiers, kidnappers were still able to bring their 60-year-old victim, Yee, to Sulu province.

Yee’s captivity was brief, however, compared with that of other victims.

MNLF forces noticed a small speedboat with engines bigger than what it needed, an unusual thing, docked at a small wharf in the village of Tanjung in Indanan around 4 a.m. on Wednesday, according to Samsula Adju, speaking for MNLF in Sulu province.

Adju said a group of MNLF members, led by Abraham Joel, went to check the boat and found Yee.

Adju said Joel quickly coordinated with the 35th Infantry Battalion and handed over Yee.
“MNLF men missed the Abu Sayyaf,” Adju said.

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., spokesperson of the Wesmincom, said Yee’s rescue is the result of massive intelligence work.

Tan said soldiers had been posted in “possible landing sites” of the kidnappers and their victim.

“True enough, we monitored them,” Tan said. Soldiers from the 35th Infantry Battalion, he said, “conducted strike operations.”

“The bandits were scared away and abandoned their captive,” he said.

Yee owns several hardware and grocery stores, and a gasoline station in Sirawai.

Coordination

Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said soldiers from the 35th Infantry Battalion picked up Yee at a pier in Indanan.

Yee was kidnapped by at least six men around 3 p.m. on Monday.

Yee went through medical checkup at Camp Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu province, and given food as she had not eaten since Monday.

Padilla said the successful rescue of Yee is the result of coordination between the military and police, and cooperation from residents who served as eyes and ears of authorities.
 
Template

At least 16 Filipino and foreign hostages are still being kept captive by the Abu Sayyaf.

Brig. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, joint task force Sulu commander, said the rescue of Yee is “a template of enhanced collaboration of all government agencies concerned.”

“We hope to see more collaborations from different stakeholders in the coming days to destroy the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) and rescue the remaining hostages,” Dela Vega said.

Col. Jose Faustino, commander of the Army’s 501st Brigade, said the military

offensives against the Abu Sayyaf would continue until Sulu province is free from terrorists.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/817778/kidnappers-slip-past-10000-troops

Right connections key to Sekkingstad’s release – Dureza

From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 22): Right connections key to Sekkingstad’s release – Dureza

Getting the right connections was key to the release last Friday of Abu Sayyaf Group’s (ASG) Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad, according to Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus “Jess” Dureza.

 

“When I went to Oslo in the first meeting (peace talks) there (last August), the foreign minister arranged for me to meet the [Kjartan’s] brother, Odd Sekkingstad. The brother said he did not have money and they are a poor family in Norway. After meeting with the hostage’s family there, I said personally, I need to do everything,” Dureza said, as he shared his inside story with the Manila Bulletin yesterday at the MB integrated newsroom in Intramuros, Manila.

 

“So, I tapped again the people who had been sidelined,” Dureza went on, referring to his contacts in negotiations for the release of three others who, along with Sekkingstad, were abducted in a resort on Samal Island in Davao del Norte exactly a year ago today, on September 21, 2015. “One of these contacts of mine is connected to Nur Misuari.”

 

 

 

ROUNDTABLE GUEST — Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza dons a Manila Bulletin jacket after being interviewed by the paper’s senior editors during a roundtable talk on Wednesday. With Dureza are Manila Bulletin Executive Vice President Herminio Coloma Jr. (left) and Editor in Chief Jun Icban. (Albert Garcia/Manila Bulletin)

 

Dureza communicated with Misuari via phone, as the latter has a standing arrest warrant for the Zamboanga siege that happened in September, 2013.

 

“So, Nur operated, and then, when I went there, I was told that they were ‘almost there’ (release of Sekkingstad), the hostage is ready to be delivered. But I wanted to make sure that what they would deliver to Nur is really Kjartan, but there was no way to find out.”

 

CRUCIAL QUESTIONS, ANSWERS

 

“When I went to talk to the brother (Odd), I asked for some information only Kjartan knows,” Dureza said. “So, when they said, ‘He [Sekkingstad] is here,’ I asked Nur if I could talk to Kjartan just to make sure it was Kjartan because I never really knew him.”

 

Dureza first asked Kjartan for the name of his brother. “‘Brother in Norway? Odd!’ he answered,” Dureza said.

 

Then, he asked for the name of the boat Sekkingstad was building in Davao. According to Dureza, Sekkingstad was actually building a yacht at the time of his abduction. The Norwegian belonged to a family that owns a resort in Samal Island.

 

“I was told that he planned to name it ‘Wilkun.’ So, I sent the question to the handler first. I said, ‘Can you ask this question to that person to determine if he’s really Kjartan? What is the name of the boat that he’s building?’ The answer to me was ‘larang-larang,’ ‘Larang-larang?’ Oh, it might not be him! Only for me to be told that ‘larang-larang’ is the Tausug for a vessel. So it coincided that what [Kjartan] was referring to the name Wilkun was larang-larang. And so I said, bingo! So we proceeded to get him.”

 

 The night before Sekkingstad’s release, Misuari would not allow Kjartan to go down from their turf because it was already late at night and it was raining. The following morning, Misuari himself wanted to take Kjartan to Dureza who was in Jolo, Sulu.

 

 “But he was with the rest of his troops who were all armed. It should not be that way, as the military would react. Another thing was that if he would go to see me and he has a warrant, I am duty-bound to say ‘I am taking you in custody already because I’m already a public official.’ So, I told him it would not work.”

 

Finally, Dureza decided to tell Misuari to just stay put and the former would claim Sekkingstad.

 

“So, I had to go up the mountain and fetch Kjartan myself,”Dureza said. “And he was finally turned over.”

 

Dureza admitted that he was not really able to follow through the case of Sekkingstad because he had “almost surrendered” already, having failed to help John Ridsdel, Sekkingstad’s fellow hostage.

 

Ridsdel, who, Dureza said, was close to his family, was beheaded by the terror group on April 25, 2016.

 

“Our success there was really because we got the right connections,”Dureza said, “and Nur seemed like he really wanted to impress President Duterte, in all honesty.”

 

http://www.mb.com.ph/right-connections-key-to-sekkingstads-release-dureza/

PIA-9 bags Best Civilian Stakeholder Award of Army Mechanized Infantry Division

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): PIA-9 bags Best Civilian Stakeholder Award of Army Mechanized Infantry Division

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 9 was adjudged as the Best Civilian Stakeholder for Calendar Year 2016 of the Army Mechanized Infantry Division.

PIA Director General Harold Clavite and PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi Edaga received the Plaque of Appreciation during the 10th Activation Anniversary at Camp O’Donnell.

PIA-9 was awarded for its invaluable support and significant contributions to the accomplishment of the Philippine Army’s mission.

Edaga said PIA-9 will exert more effort and will continue to support the Philippine Army in their activities and programs.

“We want to inform the public that our soldiers also want to help and build communities,” Edaga cited.

For his part, Clavite said PIA wants to continue its good relationship with the Philippine Army by providing support to all their communication needs.

“As far as PIA is concern, we continue our commitment to support the Philippine Army in all efforts that they do in communications and at the same time promoting all of their programs and activities all over the country,” Clavite noted.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3341474398141/pia-9-bags-best-civilian-stakeholder-award-of-army-mechanized-infantry-division

Mechanized Infantry Division showcases new armored tanks

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 21): Mechanized Infantry Division showcases new armored tanks

Army Mechanized Infantry Division showcased Tuesday its four new armored tanks.

“The M113A2 Armored Personnel Carrier mounted with 25MM Unmanned Turret System was acquired by the Philippine Army as part of the Armor Acquisition Project under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Capability Upgrade Program,” Division Commander Major General Edgar Gonzales said.

The main armament is 25 MM MK 242 Bushmaster gun while the secondary weapon is a 7.62 MM coaxial machine gun.

“In addition, the gunner’s observation system is composed of a day CCD camera, thermal imager, and a laser range finder,” Gonzales added.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3341474398232/mechanized-infantry-division-showcases-new-armored-tanks