From Rappler (Aug 7): There will be a valor awardee from Marawi – Duterte
President Duterte promises to give the awardee one of his most special guns – a model used by the US Marines – that may be used even under water
Talk about the rare and most sought-after Medal for Valor, the highest combat honor in the military, has begun as the government makes pronouncements that the Marawi crisis is nearing its end.
President Rodrigo Duterte during his visit to the battle area last week said he is sure at least one soldier fighting the local terror groups there will receive the valor award. There could be more.
Duterte promised to give the awardee one of the most special guns in his own collection – a model used by the United States Marines – that may be used even under water.
"Kung sino 'yung valor-valor diyan – sigurado mayroon talaga 'yan," Duterte said in a speech before the troops in Marawi on Friday, August 4. (It's for the valor awardee – I'm sure there will be one from here.)
"Sigurado 'yan may mga valor dito. I'll give one [of my guns]. Kung marami kayo, bunot-bunot na lang," he added. (There will be a valor awardee from here for sure. I'll give one [of my guns]. If there will be more than one, you'll have to draw lots.)
The Medal for Valor is given to the soldier who shows exceptional act of courage. (READ: The legend of the soldier who said: 'Fire on my location')
It was last given in 2013, posthumously, to a soldier who fought the followers of Moro National Liberation Front founder Nur Misuari during the 2013 Zamboanga Siege.
Private First Class Ian Pacquit was given the award for putting himself in the line of fire to save his team in Zamboanga. He was 21. (READ: Soldier killed in Zambo given highest military honor)
The vetting process for possible valor awardees among the Marawi soldiers has not started.
"The vetting will be done after the fighting is over," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told Rappler in a text message.
Duterte also promised the awardees a trip to Hong Kong with their partners or – it's not clear if he was joking – a celebrity of their choice. The generals laughed along with the President.
In 2016, Duterte increased the monthly gratuity of Medal for Valor awardees from P25,000 to P75,000.
Lorenzana said the President also wants to give a special rifle for the sniper who killed the most number of terrorists in Marawi.
"The President was gifted a barret sniper, which he wants to present to the AFP sniper who had the most kill in the Marawi conflict after the fighting is over," Lorenzana told Rappler in a text message.
The fighting that erupted on May 23 is now on its 3rd month. A total of 122 soldiers, 523 terrorists, and 45 civilians have been recorded killed.
The fighting also displaced nearly 400,000 residents of Marawi City and nearby towns.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/177895-valor-award-marawi-soldier
Monday, August 7, 2017
Duterte, Tillerson to discuss Balangiga bells, Marawi crisis
From Rappler (Aug 7): Duterte, Tillerson to discuss Balangiga bells, Marawi crisis
Malacañang also says the Philippine President is willing to discuss human rights concerns with the US Secretary of State
President Rodrigo Duterte and United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson are likely to discuss the Balangiga bells, the Marawi crisis, and other security issues during their meeting on Monday, August 7.
"We expect the President to discuss with Secretary Tillerson a wide range of relevant issues, including the security situation in Marawi, the global threat of terrorism, increasing Philippines-US economic and people-to-people engagement, Balangiga bells, among others," said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
He was holding a press conference on Monday, a few hours before the Tillerson courtesy call in Malacañang at 4 pm.
Tillerson will be the highest-ranking official of the Trump administration to meet with Duterte so far.
Duterte asked the US to return the historic Balangiga bells during his second State of the Nation Address last July 24. The bells were taken by US soldiers in 1901 as spoils of war following the Balangiga Massacre.
The US soldiers took the church bells after killing Samar residents, including children, in retaliation for deaths of American soldiers at the hands of locals.
The US embassy has said it will work with the Philippine government in finding a "solution" to the issue.
Abella said Duterte will be willing to discuss another thorny topic during his meeting with Tillerson: human rights.
"We also welcome the opportunity to address concerns such as human rights, if and when raised," said the President's spokesman.
Duterte has bristled at criticism from the United States, led by former president Barack Obama, about human rights violations being perpetrated supposedly in the name of his government's drug war.
Last July 20, American congressmen held a hearing about the alleged abuses in Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs.
But US President Donald Trump has chosen to take a different tone, even supposedly commending Duterte for the drug war in a phone conversation.
Marawi crisis
Security issues, especially the crisis in Marawi City and the threat of terrorism in general, will likely be discussed by Duterte and Tillerson.
The US continues to extend assistance to the Philippine military in its fight against terrorists in Marawi City.
Aside from providing "technical assistance," the US gave two surveillance planes to the Philippine Air Force to be used in different parts of the country, including Marawi City.
The US has also expressed concern for North Korea's nuclear tests, with Trump even asking Duterte in a phone conversation to ask China to intervene.
North Korea's two successful launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles has sparked global alarm and was among the key topics during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila.
Aside from Tillerson, Duterte is also expected to meet with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop on Monday.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/177938-duterte-tillerson-meeting-balangiga-bells-marawi-crisis
Malacañang also says the Philippine President is willing to discuss human rights concerns with the US Secretary of State
MEETING IN MALACAÑANG. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will meet with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on August 7, 2017 in Manila. File photo by Toru Hanai/AFP
President Rodrigo Duterte and United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson are likely to discuss the Balangiga bells, the Marawi crisis, and other security issues during their meeting on Monday, August 7.
"We expect the President to discuss with Secretary Tillerson a wide range of relevant issues, including the security situation in Marawi, the global threat of terrorism, increasing Philippines-US economic and people-to-people engagement, Balangiga bells, among others," said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
He was holding a press conference on Monday, a few hours before the Tillerson courtesy call in Malacañang at 4 pm.
Tillerson will be the highest-ranking official of the Trump administration to meet with Duterte so far.
Duterte asked the US to return the historic Balangiga bells during his second State of the Nation Address last July 24. The bells were taken by US soldiers in 1901 as spoils of war following the Balangiga Massacre.
The US soldiers took the church bells after killing Samar residents, including children, in retaliation for deaths of American soldiers at the hands of locals.
The US embassy has said it will work with the Philippine government in finding a "solution" to the issue.
Abella said Duterte will be willing to discuss another thorny topic during his meeting with Tillerson: human rights.
"We also welcome the opportunity to address concerns such as human rights, if and when raised," said the President's spokesman.
Duterte has bristled at criticism from the United States, led by former president Barack Obama, about human rights violations being perpetrated supposedly in the name of his government's drug war.
Last July 20, American congressmen held a hearing about the alleged abuses in Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs.
But US President Donald Trump has chosen to take a different tone, even supposedly commending Duterte for the drug war in a phone conversation.
Marawi crisis
Security issues, especially the crisis in Marawi City and the threat of terrorism in general, will likely be discussed by Duterte and Tillerson.
The US continues to extend assistance to the Philippine military in its fight against terrorists in Marawi City.
Aside from providing "technical assistance," the US gave two surveillance planes to the Philippine Air Force to be used in different parts of the country, including Marawi City.
The US has also expressed concern for North Korea's nuclear tests, with Trump even asking Duterte in a phone conversation to ask China to intervene.
North Korea's two successful launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles has sparked global alarm and was among the key topics during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila.
Aside from Tillerson, Duterte is also expected to meet with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop on Monday.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/177938-duterte-tillerson-meeting-balangiga-bells-marawi-crisis
AFP chief orders units: Go after all NPA rebels
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 7): AFP chief orders units: Go after all NPA rebels
THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ordered all military units to ratchet up pressure against the New People’s Army following the all-out war directive by President Rodrigo Duterte.
In an interview with the press in Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters on Saturday during the presentation of firearms recovered during a series of clashes, AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año said they will intensify the offensives against the communist rebels.
At the same time, the AFP chief called on the rebels to leave the armed group and lay down their arms.
“There are so many programs awaiting for you,” he said. “Forget the armed resistance because there’s nowhere for you to end up there except only death.”
Año all brigade and battalion commanders are expected to give regular updates on the situation on the ground, as well as their performance.
He also commended the accomplishments of the military brigades and battalions under Eastern Mindanao Command, headed by Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, 10th Infantry Division under Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, and 4th Infantry Division under Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal for several successful operations against the NPA.
In an interview with the press in Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters on Saturday during the presentation of firearms recovered during a series of clashes, AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año said they will intensify the offensives against the communist rebels.
At the same time, the AFP chief called on the rebels to leave the armed group and lay down their arms.
“There are so many programs awaiting for you,” he said. “Forget the armed resistance because there’s nowhere for you to end up there except only death.”
Año all brigade and battalion commanders are expected to give regular updates on the situation on the ground, as well as their performance.
He also commended the accomplishments of the military brigades and battalions under Eastern Mindanao Command, headed by Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, 10th Infantry Division under Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, and 4th Infantry Division under Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal for several successful operations against the NPA.
“You (Soldiers) had my back,” Año said. “I commended our soldiers in the 25th IB, 39th IB, 73rd company and Special Forces following the series of encounters against the rebels,”he added.
The Duterte administration has ordered back its peace negotiators, headed by Sec. Jesus Dureza, from talking with the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front following several attacks on government forces.
The President has insisted that the communist rebels reciprocate the government’s gesture of goodwill after declaring unilateral ceasefire. But the Jose Maria Sison, founder of the CPP, said that guns won’t be silenced without first addressing the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER).
“The people demand that CASER be a step ahead of the joint ceasefire agreement, unless these agreements can be signed at the same time by the panels and then by the principals,” Sison said in a statement. The signing of the CASER by both panels will pave the way for “genuine land reform, lay the foundation of national industrialization, ensure the protection of the environment and wise utilization of natural resources, uphold the people’s rights, improve the wage and living conditions, expand the social services and develop international economic relations within the contect of an independent foreign policy.”
However, President Duterte has cooled down with continuing the peace talks and also stepped up on his verbal attacks against Sison. In late July, however, he reached out to the rebels by promising jobs for them when they lay down their arms. He said they can either be integrated into the military, or undergo free skills training and when they graduate, a job will be waiting for them.
Another clash
Meanwhile, another firefight sparked between troops of 67th Infantry Battalion and NPA in Sitio Bactinan, Barangay Old Macopa, Manay Davao Oriental on Saturday around 8:30 a.m.
The President has insisted that the communist rebels reciprocate the government’s gesture of goodwill after declaring unilateral ceasefire. But the Jose Maria Sison, founder of the CPP, said that guns won’t be silenced without first addressing the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (CASER).
“The people demand that CASER be a step ahead of the joint ceasefire agreement, unless these agreements can be signed at the same time by the panels and then by the principals,” Sison said in a statement. The signing of the CASER by both panels will pave the way for “genuine land reform, lay the foundation of national industrialization, ensure the protection of the environment and wise utilization of natural resources, uphold the people’s rights, improve the wage and living conditions, expand the social services and develop international economic relations within the contect of an independent foreign policy.”
However, President Duterte has cooled down with continuing the peace talks and also stepped up on his verbal attacks against Sison. In late July, however, he reached out to the rebels by promising jobs for them when they lay down their arms. He said they can either be integrated into the military, or undergo free skills training and when they graduate, a job will be waiting for them.
Another clash
Meanwhile, another firefight sparked between troops of 67th Infantry Battalion and NPA in Sitio Bactinan, Barangay Old Macopa, Manay Davao Oriental on Saturday around 8:30 a.m.
Capt. Ronnel Legarde, the civil- military operations (CMO) officer of 67th IB, told TIMES that their troops encountered about 40 communist rebels in the said place. The firefight lasted for about an hour before the rebels withdrew toward an unknown direction.
There was no reported wounded soldiers during the gunfight.
Legarde said the soldiers just responded to the report from the civilian regarding the presence of rebels in the community.
There was no reported wounded soldiers during the gunfight.
Legarde said the soldiers just responded to the report from the civilian regarding the presence of rebels in the community.
AFP: Marawi war drags on due to human shields
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 7): AFP: Marawi war drags on due to human shields
MORE THAN 300 civilians are still being used as human shields, which is why the military couldn’t bomb the terrorists’ lairs in Marawi City.
However, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Eduardo Año is hoping that fighting, which so far have already claimed more than 500 lives, won’t drag on until the end of the extension of the Martial Law in Mindanao on Dec. 31 this year.
“We are doing our best, it’s almost finished,” chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) told the press during an interview at Camp Panacan station hospital, adding that they are doing their best to limit casualties from the government side. “The lives of our soldiers are important.”
Malacanang and the military have pushed back their deadlines in ending the crisis in Marawi. They also admitted that they underestimated the enemy, from the initial 50 terrorists reported it has now ballooned to over 500.
However, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Eduardo Año is hoping that fighting, which so far have already claimed more than 500 lives, won’t drag on until the end of the extension of the Martial Law in Mindanao on Dec. 31 this year.
“We are doing our best, it’s almost finished,” chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) told the press during an interview at Camp Panacan station hospital, adding that they are doing their best to limit casualties from the government side. “The lives of our soldiers are important.”
Malacanang and the military have pushed back their deadlines in ending the crisis in Marawi. They also admitted that they underestimated the enemy, from the initial 50 terrorists reported it has now ballooned to over 500.
But President Duterte said that he’s not about to compromise civilian lives and that’s the reason why he couldn’t give the order to flatten Marawi, which he said would have crushed the rebellion overnight.
“I told them ‘do not attack.’ What’s important is we do not want to kill people,” he told reporters last month. “If we have to wait there for one year, let us wait for one year.”
The AFP chief describes Marawi now as having intermittent fighting but the battles have become more intense.
“The only ones left in the area are the core group of Isnilon Hapilon and Maute but … there’s still more than 300 hostages being used as human shields,” he added.
President Duterte and Año visited the troops in the frontline around 4:30 p.m. last Friday. “The presence of the President in the area is already a big thing to them,” he said.
“I told them ‘do not attack.’ What’s important is we do not want to kill people,” he told reporters last month. “If we have to wait there for one year, let us wait for one year.”
The AFP chief describes Marawi now as having intermittent fighting but the battles have become more intense.
“The only ones left in the area are the core group of Isnilon Hapilon and Maute but … there’s still more than 300 hostages being used as human shields,” he added.
President Duterte and Año visited the troops in the frontline around 4:30 p.m. last Friday. “The presence of the President in the area is already a big thing to them,” he said.
Cops fighting alongside ISIS in Marawi City?
From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 6): Cops fighting alongside ISIS in Marawi City?
Police were investigating whether some of its personnel had joined the local ISIS group fighting security in Marawi City in southern Philippines, officials said Sunday.
Officials said one policemen, who was reported missing, allegedly is fighting troops alongside the militants who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. Another policeman is believed to have defected to the militant group.
Soldiers have recovered a police identification card on a mosque previously held by the ISIS fighters in the besieged city. Other reports said as many as 60 policemen assigned in Marawi and Lanao del Sur province went missing since ISIS fighters occupied the city on May 23.
It was unknown whether the policemen had been taken prisoners or forced to join ISIS to escape execution. The militants are still holding at least 200 hostages, including a Catholic priest and church workers.
The military insisted that over 500 militants had been killed in the fighting, but officials provided little or no evidence of the claims. However, the military confirmed that more than 100 soldiers had perished from the violence that also wounded over 1,000 soldiers. The fighting displaced tens of thousands of people in Marawi, the capital of Lanao del Sur that belongs to the Muslim autonomous region.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/cops-fighting-alongside-isis-in-marawi-city/
Police were investigating whether some of its personnel had joined the local ISIS group fighting security in Marawi City in southern Philippines, officials said Sunday.
Officials said one policemen, who was reported missing, allegedly is fighting troops alongside the militants who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. Another policeman is believed to have defected to the militant group.
Soldiers have recovered a police identification card on a mosque previously held by the ISIS fighters in the besieged city. Other reports said as many as 60 policemen assigned in Marawi and Lanao del Sur province went missing since ISIS fighters occupied the city on May 23.
It was unknown whether the policemen had been taken prisoners or forced to join ISIS to escape execution. The militants are still holding at least 200 hostages, including a Catholic priest and church workers.
The military insisted that over 500 militants had been killed in the fighting, but officials provided little or no evidence of the claims. However, the military confirmed that more than 100 soldiers had perished from the violence that also wounded over 1,000 soldiers. The fighting displaced tens of thousands of people in Marawi, the capital of Lanao del Sur that belongs to the Muslim autonomous region.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/cops-fighting-alongside-isis-in-marawi-city/
Stray bomb hits town outside besieged city where ISIS fighting rages on
From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 7): Stray bomb hits town outside besieged city where ISIS fighting rages on
A bomb believed fired by the military had exploded Sunday on a town outside the besieged city of Marawi in southern Philippines.
There was no report of civilian casualties or damage to structures in Marantao town, but the explosion sent chilling fears to civilians that a bomb had strayed from its target – ISIS fighters in Marawi – just 11 miles away. The military said it will investigate the report.
Dozens of soldiers were killed and injured in two separate bombing sorties of military planes in the past that targeted ISIS militants in Marawi. Militants occupied the city on May 23 and fighting is still raging on. Continued aerial bombings by military aircrafts and ground artillery fire have flattened many buildings despite massive calls from civilians to stop the air strikes.
More than 200,000 people were displaced by the fighting, but other reports said it could reach over 300,000.
The military said it killed more than 500 militants, but this claim cannot be independently confirmed, although it said that over 100 soldiers had died and some 1,000 more were injured in fierce clashes.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/stray-bomb-hit-town-outside-besieged-city-where-isis-fighting-rages-on/
A bomb believed fired by the military had exploded Sunday on a town outside the besieged city of Marawi in southern Philippines.
There was no report of civilian casualties or damage to structures in Marantao town, but the explosion sent chilling fears to civilians that a bomb had strayed from its target – ISIS fighters in Marawi – just 11 miles away. The military said it will investigate the report.
Dozens of soldiers were killed and injured in two separate bombing sorties of military planes in the past that targeted ISIS militants in Marawi. Militants occupied the city on May 23 and fighting is still raging on. Continued aerial bombings by military aircrafts and ground artillery fire have flattened many buildings despite massive calls from civilians to stop the air strikes.
More than 200,000 people were displaced by the fighting, but other reports said it could reach over 300,000.
The military said it killed more than 500 militants, but this claim cannot be independently confirmed, although it said that over 100 soldiers had died and some 1,000 more were injured in fierce clashes.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/stray-bomb-hit-town-outside-besieged-city-where-isis-fighting-rages-on/
22 former rebels hired as forest guards in Kalinga
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7): 22 former rebels hired as forest guards in Kalinga
Twenty-two former rebels are set to join the “Bantay Gubat” brigade this month to help in the protection and conservation of forests in the province.
Veronica Banglot, Supervising Ecosystem Management Specialist of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, said the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has furnished their office of the new list of hired forest protectors.
“This will be of great help in protecting and preserving the remaining forest cover of the province particularly to augment the only one forest ranger and two volunteers assigned to watch the Balbalasang Eco Park,” she said. Their contract is good for five months and renewable, she added.
One hundred forty eight former rebels were also hired January of this year under PAMANA program for former conflict areas.
Meanwhile, Banglot informed they are also assisting these former rebels undergo training for livelihood. Recently, 13 finished training on bamboo craft in Abra. She said they will assist them organize themselves, propose livelihood projects for government assistance and refer them to agencies like Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment and Dept. of Science and Technology so that the spirit of the closure order of the Sipat between the government and the former Cordillera People’s Liberation Army be realized through economic interventions.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/171502076053/-22-former-rebels-hired-as-forest-guards-in-kalinga
Twenty-two former rebels are set to join the “Bantay Gubat” brigade this month to help in the protection and conservation of forests in the province.
Veronica Banglot, Supervising Ecosystem Management Specialist of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, said the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has furnished their office of the new list of hired forest protectors.
“This will be of great help in protecting and preserving the remaining forest cover of the province particularly to augment the only one forest ranger and two volunteers assigned to watch the Balbalasang Eco Park,” she said. Their contract is good for five months and renewable, she added.
One hundred forty eight former rebels were also hired January of this year under PAMANA program for former conflict areas.
Meanwhile, Banglot informed they are also assisting these former rebels undergo training for livelihood. Recently, 13 finished training on bamboo craft in Abra. She said they will assist them organize themselves, propose livelihood projects for government assistance and refer them to agencies like Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment and Dept. of Science and Technology so that the spirit of the closure order of the Sipat between the government and the former Cordillera People’s Liberation Army be realized through economic interventions.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/171502076053/-22-former-rebels-hired-as-forest-guards-in-kalinga
AFP receives postcards from Pinoys in Russia
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7): AFP receives postcards from Pinoys in Russia
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently received postcards from Filipinos based in Russia for soldiers who are now deployed in Marawi City.
Philippine Army’s Commanding General, General Glorioso Miranda received from Ambassador Carlos D. Sorreta postcards collected by the Embassy.
The postcards were the Embassy’s contribution to the Department of Foreign Affairs’ wide effort to garner support from overseas Filipinos to boost the morale of the Armed Forces. The Embassy set up a collection counter titled “Postcards from Russia with Love” where many Filipinos filled out cards. Others had their own cards sent in.
“The response from the community was very positive and reflected the overwhelming support for our soldiers’ fight against violent extremism and terror,” Ambassador Sorreta said. “It is a simple yet sincere show of support that, hopefully, will go a long way in motivating our men,” he added.
Meanwhile, General Miranda thanked our kababayans in Russia.
“I am pleasantly surprised and touched by this gesture from our Kababayans in Russia. Please be assured that our men in Marawi are fighting hard and I thank you all on their behalf,” said General Miranda.
The delegates from the AFP also met with officials and discussed the continuing enhancement and expansion of cooperation between the Philippine and Russian defense and security agencies.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241502075683/afp-receives-postcards-from-pinoys-in-russia-
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently received postcards from Filipinos based in Russia for soldiers who are now deployed in Marawi City.
Philippine Army’s Commanding General, General Glorioso Miranda received from Ambassador Carlos D. Sorreta postcards collected by the Embassy.
The postcards were the Embassy’s contribution to the Department of Foreign Affairs’ wide effort to garner support from overseas Filipinos to boost the morale of the Armed Forces. The Embassy set up a collection counter titled “Postcards from Russia with Love” where many Filipinos filled out cards. Others had their own cards sent in.
“The response from the community was very positive and reflected the overwhelming support for our soldiers’ fight against violent extremism and terror,” Ambassador Sorreta said. “It is a simple yet sincere show of support that, hopefully, will go a long way in motivating our men,” he added.
Meanwhile, General Miranda thanked our kababayans in Russia.
“I am pleasantly surprised and touched by this gesture from our Kababayans in Russia. Please be assured that our men in Marawi are fighting hard and I thank you all on their behalf,” said General Miranda.
The delegates from the AFP also met with officials and discussed the continuing enhancement and expansion of cooperation between the Philippine and Russian defense and security agencies.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241502075683/afp-receives-postcards-from-pinoys-in-russia-
Pioneer champions on women, peace and security launched
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7): Pioneer champions on women, peace and security launched
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) spearheaded the training of trainers that will implement the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAPWPS) 2017-2022 held on 31 July-03 August 2017 in Tagaytay City.
The third-generation NAPWPS framework is envisioned as the state’s cornerstone in promoting women’s rights, needs and roles in peacebuilding, peacekeeping, and peace negotiations. The recently held strategic planning and workshop had produced 64 capacity builders stemmed from various government agencies.
Moreover, its first batch of trainers were tapped as the official representatives of the NAPWPS steering committee and technical working group in cascading the policies and guidelines of the program from national government agencies down to local government units.
“We trust that with the organization of the WPS Speaker’s Bureau, coordination between and among agencies is strengthened especially on matters of women empowerment and protection,” expressed OPAPP Undersecretary Diosita Andot.
The new framework had integrated the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), CEDAW General Recommendation 30, and 2015 Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325, which further highlighted the participation and leadership of women in the peace process as well as its strengthened mechanisms in protecting women during and after conflict.
“’Pag alam mo na ‘yong lens ng Gender and Development espousing with Women, Peace and Security, mas culturally sensitive ka na at the same time, magzu-zoom in ka na ang babae, mas high-risk talaga in times of conflict,” shared Norilyn Quesada-Rivera of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regarding her insights from the four-day workshop.
Among the agencies that comprised NAPWPS’ trainers are OPAPP, DSWD, Philippine Commission on Women, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Interior Local Government, Department of Defense, Department of Justice, National Commission on Indigenous People, and National Commission for Muslim Filipinos. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3441502082447/pioneer-champions-on-women-peace-and-security-launched
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) spearheaded the training of trainers that will implement the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAPWPS) 2017-2022 held on 31 July-03 August 2017 in Tagaytay City.
The third-generation NAPWPS framework is envisioned as the state’s cornerstone in promoting women’s rights, needs and roles in peacebuilding, peacekeeping, and peace negotiations. The recently held strategic planning and workshop had produced 64 capacity builders stemmed from various government agencies.
Moreover, its first batch of trainers were tapped as the official representatives of the NAPWPS steering committee and technical working group in cascading the policies and guidelines of the program from national government agencies down to local government units.
“We trust that with the organization of the WPS Speaker’s Bureau, coordination between and among agencies is strengthened especially on matters of women empowerment and protection,” expressed OPAPP Undersecretary Diosita Andot.
The new framework had integrated the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), CEDAW General Recommendation 30, and 2015 Global Study on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325, which further highlighted the participation and leadership of women in the peace process as well as its strengthened mechanisms in protecting women during and after conflict.
“’Pag alam mo na ‘yong lens ng Gender and Development espousing with Women, Peace and Security, mas culturally sensitive ka na at the same time, magzu-zoom in ka na ang babae, mas high-risk talaga in times of conflict,” shared Norilyn Quesada-Rivera of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regarding her insights from the four-day workshop.
Among the agencies that comprised NAPWPS’ trainers are OPAPP, DSWD, Philippine Commission on Women, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Interior Local Government, Department of Defense, Department of Justice, National Commission on Indigenous People, and National Commission for Muslim Filipinos. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3441502082447/pioneer-champions-on-women-peace-and-security-launched
US and Filipino divers practice diving and salvage techniques
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 7): US and Filipino divers practice diving and salvage techniques
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Group (PCGSOG) and the United States Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One (MDSU-1) participated in a combined information exchange and diving survey on the sunken vessel MV Captain Ufuk in Manila Bay’s South Harbor.
This exchange focused on ship salvage techniques, diving operations, side scan sonar, remotely-operated vehicle operations, damage control, de-watering, as well as cutting and welding. Additionally, PCGSOG personnel toured the USNS Salvor, the Safeguard-class salvage ship from which the U.S. Navy divers and salvage personnel operate during this exchange.
The MV Captain Ufuk sunk roughly a year ago, and poses a hazard to navigation in Manila Bay. As well as enhancing the skill set of PCGSOG personnel, this exchange will also provide vital information to plan for refloating and relocating the MV Captain Ufuk at a later date.
The Commander of PCGSOG, Cdr. Edgardo Hernando met with the MSDU-1 dive teams as well as engineering and salvage representatives from U.S. Combined Task Force 73, who will be joining in a long-term engagement plan to facilitate combined operations in the future to refloat and salvage the vessel. (US Embassy)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131501934890/us-and-filipino-divers-practice-diving-and-salvage-techniques-
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Group (PCGSOG) and the United States Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One (MDSU-1) participated in a combined information exchange and diving survey on the sunken vessel MV Captain Ufuk in Manila Bay’s South Harbor.
This exchange focused on ship salvage techniques, diving operations, side scan sonar, remotely-operated vehicle operations, damage control, de-watering, as well as cutting and welding. Additionally, PCGSOG personnel toured the USNS Salvor, the Safeguard-class salvage ship from which the U.S. Navy divers and salvage personnel operate during this exchange.
The MV Captain Ufuk sunk roughly a year ago, and poses a hazard to navigation in Manila Bay. As well as enhancing the skill set of PCGSOG personnel, this exchange will also provide vital information to plan for refloating and relocating the MV Captain Ufuk at a later date.
The Commander of PCGSOG, Cdr. Edgardo Hernando met with the MSDU-1 dive teams as well as engineering and salvage representatives from U.S. Combined Task Force 73, who will be joining in a long-term engagement plan to facilitate combined operations in the future to refloat and salvage the vessel. (US Embassy)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131501934890/us-and-filipino-divers-practice-diving-and-salvage-techniques-
Pangasinan board seeks info on 'real' peace and order situation
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7): Pangasinan board seeks info on 'real' peace and order situation
Worried about possible incursion of rebels in eastern Pangasinan, the provincial board is set to invite police and military officials in their next regular session on August14 to shed light the extent of insurgency in the province.
This was sought by Sixth District Board Member Noel Bince following a clash between the PNP and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in the outskirts of San Nicolas town where one member of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 1 (RPSB1) was killed and another was wounded.
Bince said that incident worried many residents of eastern Pangasinan with the spread of "fake news" in social media that the town mayor of San Quintin was abducted and pupils of one elementary school in Natividad town were held hostage although these were just falsities.
Invited by the board during its question hour at the start of its reguloar session are Senior Supt. Ronald Oliver Lee, the commanding officer of RPSB1, the chief of police of San Nicolas town as well as the commanding officer of the Philippine Army stationed near San Nicolas town.
Bince said the provincial board is still in the dark as to what happened when members of RPSB1 on patrol clashed with NPA rebels whose reports of earlier sightings in San Nicolas were belied by the police,
He said they want to find out the real score about the insurgency problem in Pangasinan, that is why they are inviting the police and military authorities who know the situation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005133
Worried about possible incursion of rebels in eastern Pangasinan, the provincial board is set to invite police and military officials in their next regular session on August14 to shed light the extent of insurgency in the province.
This was sought by Sixth District Board Member Noel Bince following a clash between the PNP and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in the outskirts of San Nicolas town where one member of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 1 (RPSB1) was killed and another was wounded.
Bince said that incident worried many residents of eastern Pangasinan with the spread of "fake news" in social media that the town mayor of San Quintin was abducted and pupils of one elementary school in Natividad town were held hostage although these were just falsities.
Invited by the board during its question hour at the start of its reguloar session are Senior Supt. Ronald Oliver Lee, the commanding officer of RPSB1, the chief of police of San Nicolas town as well as the commanding officer of the Philippine Army stationed near San Nicolas town.
Bince said the provincial board is still in the dark as to what happened when members of RPSB1 on patrol clashed with NPA rebels whose reports of earlier sightings in San Nicolas were belied by the police,
He said they want to find out the real score about the insurgency problem in Pangasinan, that is why they are inviting the police and military authorities who know the situation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005133
ASEAN calls for non-militarization, self-restraint in South China Sea activities
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): ASEAN calls for non-militarization, self-restraint in South China Sea activities
The foreign ministers of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have called for non-militarization and self-restraint in the conduct of land reclamations and activities in the disputed South China Sea/West Philippine Sea, as they opt of having a “sea of peace, stability and prosperity.”
In a joint communiqué of the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting issued on Sunday, they urged claimants and all other states to avoid actions, including those mentioned in the declaration on the conduct (DOC) of parties, that could further complicate the situation and escalate tensions in the area.
They noted the concerns expressed by some Ministers on the land reclamations and activities in the area, which have “eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region.”
ASEAN foreign ministers stressed the importance of the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety.
The DOC of Parties, which was signed by ASEAN member states and China in 2002, was a measure to settle disputes and prevent tensions in the South China Sea.
They were encouraged by the conclusion and adoption of the framework of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, which will “facilitate the work for the conclusion of an effective COC on a mutually-agreed timeline.”
“In view of this positive momentum, we reaffirmed our readiness to begin the substantive negotiation on the COC and tasked our Senior Officials to start the negotiation on the COC with China,” the ASEAN joint communique said.
The foreign ministers also underscored the need for claimants to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Pursuant to the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety, and pending the early adoption of an effective COC, we stressed the importance of undertaking confidence building and preventive measures to enhance, among others, trust and confidence amongst parties,” they added.
Countries that have made competing claims over parts or all of the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea were the Philippines, China, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005014
The foreign ministers of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have called for non-militarization and self-restraint in the conduct of land reclamations and activities in the disputed South China Sea/West Philippine Sea, as they opt of having a “sea of peace, stability and prosperity.”
In a joint communiqué of the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting issued on Sunday, they urged claimants and all other states to avoid actions, including those mentioned in the declaration on the conduct (DOC) of parties, that could further complicate the situation and escalate tensions in the area.
They noted the concerns expressed by some Ministers on the land reclamations and activities in the area, which have “eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region.”
ASEAN foreign ministers stressed the importance of the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety.
The DOC of Parties, which was signed by ASEAN member states and China in 2002, was a measure to settle disputes and prevent tensions in the South China Sea.
They were encouraged by the conclusion and adoption of the framework of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, which will “facilitate the work for the conclusion of an effective COC on a mutually-agreed timeline.”
“In view of this positive momentum, we reaffirmed our readiness to begin the substantive negotiation on the COC and tasked our Senior Officials to start the negotiation on the COC with China,” the ASEAN joint communique said.
The foreign ministers also underscored the need for claimants to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Pursuant to the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety, and pending the early adoption of an effective COC, we stressed the importance of undertaking confidence building and preventive measures to enhance, among others, trust and confidence amongst parties,” they added.
Countries that have made competing claims over parts or all of the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea were the Philippines, China, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005014
P14-B fund eyed for new soldiers, cops, firefighters, jail guards
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7): P14-B fund eyed for new soldiers, cops, firefighters, jail guards
At least PHP14 billion has been allocated in the proposed PHP3.767-trillion national budget for 2018 to fund the hiring of additional soldiers, policemen, firefighters and jail guards as requested by President Rodrigo Duterte, a House leader said on Monday.
In a statement, House appropriations committee chair and Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles further noted that the PHP14-billion allocation will also finance uniforms, firearms, rifles, ammunition, gears, training and other expenses needed for the new recruits.
“It is safe to say that out of the computed requirement, PHP14 billion is already specifically provided in the proposed 2018 budget," Nograles said, noting that the fund is distributed among the various uniformed services.
If approved without any amendment, Nograles said that this would allow the Philippine National Police (PNP) to hire 10,000 additional policemen, 2,000 additional personnel for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and 1,000 jail guards for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
"For salaries alone, the total basic pay for the creation of 10,000 police officer PO1 positions will entail around PHP1.78 billion. The creation of 20,000 soldiers may cost a total basic pay amounting to around PHP3.56 billion," Nograles said.
"As to the additional soldiers, we already created in 2017 for the Philippine Army 8,892 positions, which we are currently filling up," he added.
The Davao City lawmaker said the hiring of new uniformed personnel is necessary with the existing security challenges amid threats of terrorism and other forms of lawlessness.
“The Marawi crisis, the ongoing war against drugs and other forms of criminality that threaten the peace and security of the people are compelling reasons for us to prioritize the augmentation of our military and law enforcement personnel and the modernization of their weapons and equipment," he said.
Nograles assured that his panel will support the creation of new positions for uniformed personnel.
The proposed budget for next year is 12.4 percent higher than the PHP3.35 trillion budget for 2017 and represents 21.6 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).
The education sector will get the biggest chunk of the budget with a funding of PHP691.1 billion broken down as follows: Department of Education (DepED), PHP613.1 billion; Commission on Higher Education (CHED), PHP13.5 billion; and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), PHP64.6 billion.
The other agencies with the highest budgetary allocations are: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH),PHP643.3 billion; Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), PHP172.3 billion; Department of Health (DOH), PHP164.3 billion; Department of National Defense (DND), PHP145 billion; Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), PHP138 billion; Department of Transportation (DOTr), PHP73.8 billion; Department of Agriculture (DA), PHP54.2 billion; Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), PHP33.5 billion; and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), PHP27.9 billion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005050
At least PHP14 billion has been allocated in the proposed PHP3.767-trillion national budget for 2018 to fund the hiring of additional soldiers, policemen, firefighters and jail guards as requested by President Rodrigo Duterte, a House leader said on Monday.
In a statement, House appropriations committee chair and Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles further noted that the PHP14-billion allocation will also finance uniforms, firearms, rifles, ammunition, gears, training and other expenses needed for the new recruits.
“It is safe to say that out of the computed requirement, PHP14 billion is already specifically provided in the proposed 2018 budget," Nograles said, noting that the fund is distributed among the various uniformed services.
If approved without any amendment, Nograles said that this would allow the Philippine National Police (PNP) to hire 10,000 additional policemen, 2,000 additional personnel for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and 1,000 jail guards for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
"For salaries alone, the total basic pay for the creation of 10,000 police officer PO1 positions will entail around PHP1.78 billion. The creation of 20,000 soldiers may cost a total basic pay amounting to around PHP3.56 billion," Nograles said.
"As to the additional soldiers, we already created in 2017 for the Philippine Army 8,892 positions, which we are currently filling up," he added.
The Davao City lawmaker said the hiring of new uniformed personnel is necessary with the existing security challenges amid threats of terrorism and other forms of lawlessness.
“The Marawi crisis, the ongoing war against drugs and other forms of criminality that threaten the peace and security of the people are compelling reasons for us to prioritize the augmentation of our military and law enforcement personnel and the modernization of their weapons and equipment," he said.
Nograles assured that his panel will support the creation of new positions for uniformed personnel.
The proposed budget for next year is 12.4 percent higher than the PHP3.35 trillion budget for 2017 and represents 21.6 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).
The education sector will get the biggest chunk of the budget with a funding of PHP691.1 billion broken down as follows: Department of Education (DepED), PHP613.1 billion; Commission on Higher Education (CHED), PHP13.5 billion; and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), PHP64.6 billion.
The other agencies with the highest budgetary allocations are: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH),PHP643.3 billion; Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), PHP172.3 billion; Department of Health (DOH), PHP164.3 billion; Department of National Defense (DND), PHP145 billion; Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), PHP138 billion; Department of Transportation (DOTr), PHP73.8 billion; Department of Agriculture (DA), PHP54.2 billion; Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), PHP33.5 billion; and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), PHP27.9 billion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005050
Ex-cop allegedly in Maute ranks, AWOL since 2014
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7): Ex-cop allegedly in Maute ranks, AWOL since 2014
The still unnamed police officer from Rizal, who allegedly joined the ranks of Maute Group remnants now being neutralized in Marawi City by government forces, has been AWOL (absent without leave) from the PNP since 2014 and already dropped from the rolls.
This was clarified by PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa in a press briefing Monday in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
The ex-cop's identity is still being verified after government forces recovered an ID card in one of the Maute Group strongholds earlier in the fighting.
"We would like to make that clear, Number 1, he is no longer a policeman. (As early as) 2014, he went AWOL and his name was dropped from the rolls, and we have no idea on his whereabouts. (And regarding the recovered ID card), it could have been given or taken by someone else. At any rate, our investigation is still ongoing to validate this," Dela Rosa said in Filipino.
He added that the PNP cannot ascertain on whether the former police officer is indeed in Marawi City fighting for the Maute Group terrorists unless the latter is captured or killed in the battlefield.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005060
The still unnamed police officer from Rizal, who allegedly joined the ranks of Maute Group remnants now being neutralized in Marawi City by government forces, has been AWOL (absent without leave) from the PNP since 2014 and already dropped from the rolls.
This was clarified by PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa in a press briefing Monday in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
The ex-cop's identity is still being verified after government forces recovered an ID card in one of the Maute Group strongholds earlier in the fighting.
"We would like to make that clear, Number 1, he is no longer a policeman. (As early as) 2014, he went AWOL and his name was dropped from the rolls, and we have no idea on his whereabouts. (And regarding the recovered ID card), it could have been given or taken by someone else. At any rate, our investigation is still ongoing to validate this," Dela Rosa said in Filipino.
He added that the PNP cannot ascertain on whether the former police officer is indeed in Marawi City fighting for the Maute Group terrorists unless the latter is captured or killed in the battlefield.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005060
AFP chief cancels deployment of more troops in Marawi City
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7): AFP chief cancels deployment of more troops in Marawi City
As clearing operations in war-torn Marawi City are set to wind down soon, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has suspended the deployment of another battalion as reinforcement to units still engaged in fighting Maute Group terrorists.
For reasons of operational security, AFP public information office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo declined to say where the battalion is based, but added the officers and enlisted personnel of the unit were "disappointed" with AFP chief-of-staff Eduardo Año's decision to cancel deployment of more troops.
"The Chief-of-Staff desisted on bringing this Army battalion due to the (recent positive developments) ongoing there," Arevalo said.
A battalion's strength is estimated to be around 300 to 500 officers and enlisted personnel.
Arevalo said the battalion's deployment was finalized some two weeks ago and that officers and personnel have packed their equipment, waiting for orders to go Marawi City, only to be informed that Año had cancelled the order as there are sufficient troops in the area.
Earlier, ranking military and defense officials said the remaining Maute Group fighters, estimated at around 40 to 60, are now pocketed in two barangays measuring less than a square kilometers.
Clearing operations is slowed down by the Maute Group's penchance of using improvised explosive devices, snipers and booby traps.
As of 7 p.m. of Aug. 6, the number of Maute Group terrorists killed has reached the 528 mark while number of government troops slain in the ongoing operations is now at 122 along with 45 civilians executed. Recovered firearms are placed at 603 and rescued civilians at 1,728.
Fighting in Marawi City started on May 23 when government troops botched an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005093
As clearing operations in war-torn Marawi City are set to wind down soon, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has suspended the deployment of another battalion as reinforcement to units still engaged in fighting Maute Group terrorists.
For reasons of operational security, AFP public information office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo declined to say where the battalion is based, but added the officers and enlisted personnel of the unit were "disappointed" with AFP chief-of-staff Eduardo Año's decision to cancel deployment of more troops.
"The Chief-of-Staff desisted on bringing this Army battalion due to the (recent positive developments) ongoing there," Arevalo said.
A battalion's strength is estimated to be around 300 to 500 officers and enlisted personnel.
Arevalo said the battalion's deployment was finalized some two weeks ago and that officers and personnel have packed their equipment, waiting for orders to go Marawi City, only to be informed that Año had cancelled the order as there are sufficient troops in the area.
Earlier, ranking military and defense officials said the remaining Maute Group fighters, estimated at around 40 to 60, are now pocketed in two barangays measuring less than a square kilometers.
Clearing operations is slowed down by the Maute Group's penchance of using improvised explosive devices, snipers and booby traps.
As of 7 p.m. of Aug. 6, the number of Maute Group terrorists killed has reached the 528 mark while number of government troops slain in the ongoing operations is now at 122 along with 45 civilians executed. Recovered firearms are placed at 603 and rescued civilians at 1,728.
Fighting in Marawi City started on May 23 when government troops botched an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005093
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