From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Army tags SoCot board member, mayor as NPA supporters
An Army official has tagged a provincial board member and a municipal mayor in South Cotabato as alleged supporters of the communist-led New People’s Army (NPA).
Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commanding officer of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion, said Thursday the two local officials had reportedly provided logistical and material support to rebel units in the area.
He declined to name the concerned officials but said their supposed involvement in NPA activities were confirmed by former rebels who recently surrendered to their unit.
Cabunoc claimed the board member assisted the protest actions led by militant groups in March and April 2016 in the cities of Kidapawan and Koronadal.
Two farmers were killed while more than a dozen others were wounded as police operatives tried to disperse protesters who were barricading a portion of the Davao-Cotabato highway in Kidapawan City.
Authorities claimed the protesters then included members of the NPA as well as their sympathizers.
“He provided the vehicles that were used by the protesters and the group of lawyers that later assisted them,” he said in an interview over radio station dxKR in Koronadal City.
Cabunoc said the mayor, as claimed by the returnees, provided rice assistance to rebel units based in the boundaries of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces.
The rice supplies were supposedly received by an NPA unit based in the upper portion of Bai Saripinang, Bagumbayan town in Sultan Kudarat, he said.
But he said they were still conducting validations as to whether the concerned mayor was aware of the move.
“It’s also possible that he could have been misled and was made to believe that the rice assistance was intended for his constituents,” he said.
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avence-Fuentes admitted that she was aware of such report but said she would leave it to military authorities to take proper action.
She urged Cabunoc and the other military officials to file appropriate charges against the concerned local officials if they have enough evidences against them.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022038
Thursday, January 18, 2018
NPA returnees receive livelihood assistance in Aurora
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): NPA returnees receive livelihood assistance in Aurora
The local government of Aurora, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and in partnership with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), has granted financial assistance to six former New People's Army (NPA) rebels in this province.
Lt. Col. Edwin M. Paredes, battalion commander of the 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion, Philippine Army, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview earlier this week that the financial assistance amounting to PHP65,000 for each of the former rebels was provided under the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
Under the CLIP, rebels who surrender receive PHP50,000 for livelihood assistance and PHP15,000 for immediate financial assistance.
The CLIP beneficiaries were Marites Esteban Ilaguno, alias Ka Jenjen/Nimfa/John Well/Lea, political guide and regular member of Kilusang Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre (SM) of NPA; Joseph Ilaguno, alias Ka Erwin/Moymoy, squad leader Tersera KLG; Ardie Catipon, alias Soter, vice commanding officer of Larangang Guerilla sa Patag (LGP); Jose Gallegos, alias Ka Jeff of Sangay ng Partido sa Platun (SPP) Central Aurora; Edgar Baldonade, alias Ka Adim, vice commanding officer and Carl Rissa Baldonade, alias ka Kim, political guide SPP central Aurora.
Paredes said these former NPA rebels decided to go down and surrender because they wanted to live peacefully and to avail of the government’s livelihood, peace and development program.
“The CLIP program started in 2011 benefitting former rebels on social welfare, livelihood, health which also aims to facilitate the mainstreaming of former NPA rebels as productive citizens in their communities,” he said.
Based on joint circular issued by the DILG and Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), qualified beneficiaries of CLIP are those regular members of NPA who surfaced 2011 onwards and have expressed the desire to abandon armed violence and become productive members of the society including their partners/spouses (whether legitimate or illegitimate), parents or siblings, if applicable.
Also qualified are those who did not receive full assistance under the Social Integration Program based on OPAPP's special list of former rebels that surfaced in 2007 to 2009.
Paredes also vowed to assist the former rebels to live normal lives.
Meanwhile, Governor Gerardo Noveras is very grateful that the rebels finally returned to the mainstream of the society and is hoping they will become productive partners of the government in establishing peace and order in the community.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022034
The local government of Aurora, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and in partnership with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), has granted financial assistance to six former New People's Army (NPA) rebels in this province.
Lt. Col. Edwin M. Paredes, battalion commander of the 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion, Philippine Army, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview earlier this week that the financial assistance amounting to PHP65,000 for each of the former rebels was provided under the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).
Under the CLIP, rebels who surrender receive PHP50,000 for livelihood assistance and PHP15,000 for immediate financial assistance.
The CLIP beneficiaries were Marites Esteban Ilaguno, alias Ka Jenjen/Nimfa/John Well/Lea, political guide and regular member of Kilusang Larangang Guerilla (KLG) Sierra Madre (SM) of NPA; Joseph Ilaguno, alias Ka Erwin/Moymoy, squad leader Tersera KLG; Ardie Catipon, alias Soter, vice commanding officer of Larangang Guerilla sa Patag (LGP); Jose Gallegos, alias Ka Jeff of Sangay ng Partido sa Platun (SPP) Central Aurora; Edgar Baldonade, alias Ka Adim, vice commanding officer and Carl Rissa Baldonade, alias ka Kim, political guide SPP central Aurora.
Paredes said these former NPA rebels decided to go down and surrender because they wanted to live peacefully and to avail of the government’s livelihood, peace and development program.
“The CLIP program started in 2011 benefitting former rebels on social welfare, livelihood, health which also aims to facilitate the mainstreaming of former NPA rebels as productive citizens in their communities,” he said.
Based on joint circular issued by the DILG and Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), qualified beneficiaries of CLIP are those regular members of NPA who surfaced 2011 onwards and have expressed the desire to abandon armed violence and become productive members of the society including their partners/spouses (whether legitimate or illegitimate), parents or siblings, if applicable.
Also qualified are those who did not receive full assistance under the Social Integration Program based on OPAPP's special list of former rebels that surfaced in 2007 to 2009.
Paredes also vowed to assist the former rebels to live normal lives.
Meanwhile, Governor Gerardo Noveras is very grateful that the rebels finally returned to the mainstream of the society and is hoping they will become productive partners of the government in establishing peace and order in the community.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022034
Westmincom neutralizes 352 Abu Sayyaf bandits
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Westmincom neutralizes 352 Abu Sayyaf bandits
The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced they have achieved substantial accomplishment in its fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in 2017.
Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, Westmincom information officer, made this announcement Thursday during the command’s first press conference for the year, saying 352 ASG members were neutralized from January 1 to December 31, 2017.
Of the total, 128 Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while 80 were apprehended, and 144 surrendered in the Western Mindanao area.
Petinglay said most of those who surrendered numbering to 70 were from Basilan, 53 from Sulu, and 21 in Tawi-Tawi.
The troops also recovered and seized 223 firearms in 2017 from the Abu Sayyaf bandits.
“Substantial results were achieved through the intensified conduct of combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations launched by the Joint Task Forces within their respective joint area of operations,” she said.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Westmincom chief, said the Joint Task Forces Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi would sustain the conduct of focused military operations to defeat the ASG and other threat groups in their area of operations.
The other threat groups within the area of responsibility of Westmincom included the New People’s Army in Zamboanga Peninsula and Central Mindanao as well as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) also in Central Mindanao aside from the ASG.
Two members of the ASG were neutralized since January 1 until Thursday this year in Western Mindanao area.
One of the two surrendered to the Joint Task Force Basilan while the other was apprehended in Zamboanga City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022048
The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced they have achieved substantial accomplishment in its fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in 2017.
Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, Westmincom information officer, made this announcement Thursday during the command’s first press conference for the year, saying 352 ASG members were neutralized from January 1 to December 31, 2017.
Of the total, 128 Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while 80 were apprehended, and 144 surrendered in the Western Mindanao area.
Petinglay said most of those who surrendered numbering to 70 were from Basilan, 53 from Sulu, and 21 in Tawi-Tawi.
The troops also recovered and seized 223 firearms in 2017 from the Abu Sayyaf bandits.
“Substantial results were achieved through the intensified conduct of combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations launched by the Joint Task Forces within their respective joint area of operations,” she said.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Westmincom chief, said the Joint Task Forces Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi would sustain the conduct of focused military operations to defeat the ASG and other threat groups in their area of operations.
The other threat groups within the area of responsibility of Westmincom included the New People’s Army in Zamboanga Peninsula and Central Mindanao as well as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) also in Central Mindanao aside from the ASG.
Two members of the ASG were neutralized since January 1 until Thursday this year in Western Mindanao area.
One of the two surrendered to the Joint Task Force Basilan while the other was apprehended in Zamboanga City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022048
Ex-Navy chief: 'No hard feelings over relief from post'
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Ex-Navy chief: 'No hard feelings over relief from post'
Despite his unceremonious relief as Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command last month, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado stressed he has no bitterness towards Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
"You know I'm a military officer, I obey orders, I know the Secretary of National Defense, he has some justification for doing it, so I respect it (his decision)," he added in an interview Wednesday.
The former PN chief added that he understands such decision as he has done it many times during his time as a leader of various naval units.
Lorenzana relieved Mercado from his post as PN chief last Dec. 18, citing loss of trust and confidence on the integrity and leadership of the naval officer.
This stemmed from the alleged fixation of the former on one company to supply the combat management system of the Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP), a contract won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.
At the moment, Mercado is now assigned to the Office of the-Chief-of-Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines on Special Duties.
Earlier, the ex-Navy chief cleared Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher "Bong" Go of alleged intervention on the PHP18-billion FAP.
"This morning (Wednesday) my attention was caught by the reports when I saw a piece of paper, a post it, with my name on it, about an instruction given to me by the Secretary of National Defense about the frigate, and apparently because of that there were insinuations about Secretary Bong Go, and you know I just like to come out because, on my side when I was FOIC, he never once, with so many times, we were together in many foreign navy ships, and there was never an instance, not once that he even asked me about the frigate, never, and kaya when I'm hearing the news, well on my side only, he never intervened, much more talk to me about these things," he added.
And when asked on whether Lorenzana told or ordered him to do something about the FAP, upon the alleged orders of the SAP, Mercado answered:
"Let me rephrase. Secretary Bong Go never directly mentioned to me anything about the frigate or indirectly from another person, I never heard any other person mention the name of Secreaty Bong Go in relation to the frigates, walang ganun."
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program as it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats. It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022018
Despite his unceremonious relief as Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command last month, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado stressed he has no bitterness towards Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
"You know I'm a military officer, I obey orders, I know the Secretary of National Defense, he has some justification for doing it, so I respect it (his decision)," he added in an interview Wednesday.
The former PN chief added that he understands such decision as he has done it many times during his time as a leader of various naval units.
Lorenzana relieved Mercado from his post as PN chief last Dec. 18, citing loss of trust and confidence on the integrity and leadership of the naval officer.
This stemmed from the alleged fixation of the former on one company to supply the combat management system of the Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP), a contract won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.
At the moment, Mercado is now assigned to the Office of the-Chief-of-Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines on Special Duties.
Earlier, the ex-Navy chief cleared Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher "Bong" Go of alleged intervention on the PHP18-billion FAP.
"This morning (Wednesday) my attention was caught by the reports when I saw a piece of paper, a post it, with my name on it, about an instruction given to me by the Secretary of National Defense about the frigate, and apparently because of that there were insinuations about Secretary Bong Go, and you know I just like to come out because, on my side when I was FOIC, he never once, with so many times, we were together in many foreign navy ships, and there was never an instance, not once that he even asked me about the frigate, never, and kaya when I'm hearing the news, well on my side only, he never intervened, much more talk to me about these things," he added.
And when asked on whether Lorenzana told or ordered him to do something about the FAP, upon the alleged orders of the SAP, Mercado answered:
"Let me rephrase. Secretary Bong Go never directly mentioned to me anything about the frigate or indirectly from another person, I never heard any other person mention the name of Secreaty Bong Go in relation to the frigates, walang ganun."
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program as it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats. It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022018
Japan seeks deeper ties with PH
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Japan seeks deeper ties with PH
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has emphasized his continuing respect and support to President Rodrigo Duterte and to the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership, particularly in the field of security and infrastructure development.
Abe conveyed his message to the Filipino leader through his Special Advisor for Foreign Affairs Katsuyuki Kawai who paid a courtesy call on President Duterte at the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday that Kawai stressed the importance placed by Tokyo on expanding and deepening further its relations with Manila.
Roque said Kawai also conveyed support to ongoing programs of the Duterte administration particularly the counter terrorism, Build Build Build program and Marawi rebuilding.
“He stressed further the value of strategic partnership of Japan and the Philippines and in pursuing shared goals for the region,” Roque said.
In response, Roque said President Duterte had reaffirmed the need to further deepen and expand the Philippines-Japan cooperation on fields of mutual importance.
Roque said Duterte emphasized the significance of working together with Japan to advance security and development in the region.
Duterte also thanked Japan for its support for the security and development agenda of the Philippine government.
In October last year, Duterte visited Japan where he met Abe and Japanese Emperor Akihito.
Duterte described his Japan trip as “most productive and engaging” where he discussed with the Japanese leader concrete ways that would further intensify bilateral relations between Philippines and Japan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022070
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has emphasized his continuing respect and support to President Rodrigo Duterte and to the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership, particularly in the field of security and infrastructure development.
Abe conveyed his message to the Filipino leader through his Special Advisor for Foreign Affairs Katsuyuki Kawai who paid a courtesy call on President Duterte at the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday that Kawai stressed the importance placed by Tokyo on expanding and deepening further its relations with Manila.
Roque said Kawai also conveyed support to ongoing programs of the Duterte administration particularly the counter terrorism, Build Build Build program and Marawi rebuilding.
“He stressed further the value of strategic partnership of Japan and the Philippines and in pursuing shared goals for the region,” Roque said.
In response, Roque said President Duterte had reaffirmed the need to further deepen and expand the Philippines-Japan cooperation on fields of mutual importance.
Roque said Duterte emphasized the significance of working together with Japan to advance security and development in the region.
Duterte also thanked Japan for its support for the security and development agenda of the Philippine government.
In October last year, Duterte visited Japan where he met Abe and Japanese Emperor Akihito.
Duterte described his Japan trip as “most productive and engaging” where he discussed with the Japanese leader concrete ways that would further intensify bilateral relations between Philippines and Japan.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022070
PNP reshuffles officials
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): PNP reshuffles officials
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reshuffled its ranking officials, its spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos announced Thursday.
The reshuffle aims to fill vacant slots caused by the retirement of PNP officials, a Radyo Pilipinas report said.
Among the officials given new assignments was Director Noli Talino, who was transferred from his present position as head of the Directorate for Human Resource and Doctrine Development (DHRDD) to the Special Action Force (SAF). Talino will be replaced by Director Cedrick Train, head of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Western Mindanao (DIPO-WM).
Train in turn will be succeeded by Director Noel Constantino of the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR).
Appointed to head the DPCR was Director Eduardo Serapio Mayote Garado, former chief of DIPO-Southern Luzon, who will be replaced by Director Benjamin Lusad, formerly of the SAF.
Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Sarona of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Cordillera was transferred to the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) as replacement for Director Augusto Marquez who retired early this week. Chief Supt. Edward Carranza of the Health Service was appointed to head PRO-Cordillera.
Meanwhile, Chief Supt. Emmanuel Luis Licup, head of the Directorate for Operations (DO), was transferred to PRO-MIMAROPA, while Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor, formerly of PRO-MIMAROPA, was designated as DO head.
Chief Supt. Robert Quenery was transferred to PRO-2 from his former position at PRO-7, while Chief Supt. Timoteo Pacleb from PRO-10 was appointed to command PRO-2, with Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino being relieved from PRO-7 and transferred to PRO-10.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022057
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reshuffled its ranking officials, its spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos announced Thursday.
The reshuffle aims to fill vacant slots caused by the retirement of PNP officials, a Radyo Pilipinas report said.
Among the officials given new assignments was Director Noli Talino, who was transferred from his present position as head of the Directorate for Human Resource and Doctrine Development (DHRDD) to the Special Action Force (SAF). Talino will be replaced by Director Cedrick Train, head of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Western Mindanao (DIPO-WM).
Train in turn will be succeeded by Director Noel Constantino of the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR).
Appointed to head the DPCR was Director Eduardo Serapio Mayote Garado, former chief of DIPO-Southern Luzon, who will be replaced by Director Benjamin Lusad, formerly of the SAF.
Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Sarona of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Cordillera was transferred to the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) as replacement for Director Augusto Marquez who retired early this week. Chief Supt. Edward Carranza of the Health Service was appointed to head PRO-Cordillera.
Meanwhile, Chief Supt. Emmanuel Luis Licup, head of the Directorate for Operations (DO), was transferred to PRO-MIMAROPA, while Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor, formerly of PRO-MIMAROPA, was designated as DO head.
Chief Supt. Robert Quenery was transferred to PRO-2 from his former position at PRO-7, while Chief Supt. Timoteo Pacleb from PRO-10 was appointed to command PRO-2, with Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino being relieved from PRO-7 and transferred to PRO-10.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022057
Duterte appoints Empedrad as Navy chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Duterte appoints Empedrad as Navy chief
President Rodrigo Duterte has formally appointed Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad as flag officer in command (FOIC) of the Philippine Navy, replacing Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado who was relieved from the post last December.
Empedrad, who served as acting Navy chief since Mercado's relief last December 19, has been recommended to the post by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces of the Philippines (SFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
The President approved Empedrad's appointment on Tuesday.
Earlier, Lorenzana said he relieved Mercado due to "loss of confidence in his integrity and leadership" and the latter’s questionable intention over the former FOIC’s “fixation with a specific company for the combat management system (CMS) for the acquisition of frigates."
At that time, Empedrad was the Frigate Project Technical Working Group chairman.
Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go was also dragged in the controversy surrounding the CMS, accused of allegedly intervening in the multi-billion Navy project.
Go categorically denied the allegations, while both Lorenzana and Mercado cleared him of the accusations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022109
President Rodrigo Duterte has formally appointed Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad as flag officer in command (FOIC) of the Philippine Navy, replacing Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado who was relieved from the post last December.
Empedrad, who served as acting Navy chief since Mercado's relief last December 19, has been recommended to the post by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces of the Philippines (SFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
The President approved Empedrad's appointment on Tuesday.
Earlier, Lorenzana said he relieved Mercado due to "loss of confidence in his integrity and leadership" and the latter’s questionable intention over the former FOIC’s “fixation with a specific company for the combat management system (CMS) for the acquisition of frigates."
At that time, Empedrad was the Frigate Project Technical Working Group chairman.
Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go was also dragged in the controversy surrounding the CMS, accused of allegedly intervening in the multi-billion Navy project.
Go categorically denied the allegations, while both Lorenzana and Mercado cleared him of the accusations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022109
Duterte warns of war in Mindanao if BBL will not be passed
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18): Duterte warns of war in Mindanao if BBL will not be passed
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday warned that war would happen in Mindanao if Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will not be passed.
“Kung walang mangyayari nito sa BBL ngayon (If nothing will happen to BBL now) or we change the Constitution or do not change the Constitution at all, there will be war in Mindanao. I can assure you, mamili kayo (you have to choose),” President said in his speech during the launching of the Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank) at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.
“Hindi ko na ma-control ‘yan (I can no longer control that) and at this time, I said, it would be a double whammy because my enemy would be their friends, and who got - what would that be? It’s the ISIS,” he added.
President Duterte said it was about time to correct the “historical injustice” committed against the Moro people.
“Ang gusto ng Moro (what the Moro want), a sort of a severe form of decentralization,” Duterte said.
He said the decentralization was proposed to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari during the time of former President Corazon ‘Cory’ Aquino.
“Hindi akin ‘yan (it did not come from me), those were promises made to the Moro all these years. Ako lang kasi, nakikita ko, (for me, what I can see) with the rise of ISIS, it becomes doubly troubling for us now,” the President said.
The proposed BBL is now being tackled in Congress with the House of Representatives assuring it will be passed by March this year.
In the Senate, the subcommittee on BBL chairman Juan Miguel Zubiri said his panel would hold separate hearings beginning next week in Cotabato and Marawi City on the proposed Bangsamoro bill.
Meanwhile, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has confirmed that Duterte has told Zubiri that the President would certify BBL as urgent.
“It is certified urgent,” Roque said in a text message to the Palace reporters.
Roque has said in previous media interview that President Duterte prefers to see BBL enacted first before Congress will take on another proposal to amend the Constitution.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022142
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday warned that war would happen in Mindanao if Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will not be passed.
“Kung walang mangyayari nito sa BBL ngayon (If nothing will happen to BBL now) or we change the Constitution or do not change the Constitution at all, there will be war in Mindanao. I can assure you, mamili kayo (you have to choose),” President said in his speech during the launching of the Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank) at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.
“Hindi ko na ma-control ‘yan (I can no longer control that) and at this time, I said, it would be a double whammy because my enemy would be their friends, and who got - what would that be? It’s the ISIS,” he added.
President Duterte said it was about time to correct the “historical injustice” committed against the Moro people.
“Ang gusto ng Moro (what the Moro want), a sort of a severe form of decentralization,” Duterte said.
He said the decentralization was proposed to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari during the time of former President Corazon ‘Cory’ Aquino.
“Hindi akin ‘yan (it did not come from me), those were promises made to the Moro all these years. Ako lang kasi, nakikita ko, (for me, what I can see) with the rise of ISIS, it becomes doubly troubling for us now,” the President said.
The proposed BBL is now being tackled in Congress with the House of Representatives assuring it will be passed by March this year.
In the Senate, the subcommittee on BBL chairman Juan Miguel Zubiri said his panel would hold separate hearings beginning next week in Cotabato and Marawi City on the proposed Bangsamoro bill.
Meanwhile, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has confirmed that Duterte has told Zubiri that the President would certify BBL as urgent.
“It is certified urgent,” Roque said in a text message to the Palace reporters.
Roque has said in previous media interview that President Duterte prefers to see BBL enacted first before Congress will take on another proposal to amend the Constitution.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1022142
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Police arrest Abu Sayyaf member in Zamboanga (Photo)
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): Police arrest Abu Sayyaf member in Zamboanga
Police arrested an alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member charged for eight counts of kidnapping at the historical Plaza Pershing in this city, an official said Wednesday.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, identified the arrested suspect as Puyat Saiyadi, 45, who carries the aliases of Abubakar Diniri, Isikandar Saiyadi and Puyat Talib Saiyadi, of the island town of Patah, Sulu.
Beltran said Saiyadi was arrested by plainclothesmen and warrant servers of the Police Station 4 around 10 a.m. Wednesday at Plaza Pershing along I. Magno Street, downtown this city.
Beltran said Saiyadi had a standing warrant of arrest for eight counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention issued by the court in Basilan with no recommended bail.
He said the arrested suspect was involved in the June 11, 2001 kidnapping of workers at the Golden Harvest Plantation in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan province.
The ASG is responsible for terror attacks in the country, and has carried out bombings, kidnappings, extortion, and assassination.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021931
Police arrested an alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member charged for eight counts of kidnapping at the historical Plaza Pershing in this city, an official said Wednesday.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, identified the arrested suspect as Puyat Saiyadi, 45, who carries the aliases of Abubakar Diniri, Isikandar Saiyadi and Puyat Talib Saiyadi, of the island town of Patah, Sulu.
Beltran said Saiyadi was arrested by plainclothesmen and warrant servers of the Police Station 4 around 10 a.m. Wednesday at Plaza Pershing along I. Magno Street, downtown this city.
Beltran said Saiyadi had a standing warrant of arrest for eight counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention issued by the court in Basilan with no recommended bail.
He said the arrested suspect was involved in the June 11, 2001 kidnapping of workers at the Golden Harvest Plantation in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan province.
The ASG is responsible for terror attacks in the country, and has carried out bombings, kidnappings, extortion, and assassination.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021931
E. Visayas Army honors wounded soldier
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): E. Visayas Army honors wounded soldier
The Philippine Army on Wednesday honored a soldier wounded in a recent gun battle with communist rebels in Northern Samar.
Commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Raul Farnacio, pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal on Cpl. Artemio Bendo Jr. at the Camp Lukban Station Hospital. Bendo and other soldiers of the 43rd Infantry Battalion were in Sumoroy village in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar on Jan. 14 for a humanitarian mission when they encountered a group of rebels.
“This award is a manifestation of the degree of sacrifice that a soldier has to pay in order for our fellow Filipinos to continue to live in peace. It is just fitting to commend personnel, such as Corporal Bendo, who risked his life in helping and protecting the less fortunate in the far-flung areas,” Farnacio said in a statement sent to media on Wednesday.
This is the second clash between soldiers and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) since the end of the holiday truce on January 2.
The first encounter was on Jan. 3 when two rebels were killed in upland Hilapnitan village in Baybay City.
“The successful encounters of our government troops are the result of our effort to defeat the communist terrorists in support of President Duterte’s campaign against rebels who continue to extort money from communities and private businesses and employ atrocities against civilians,” Farnacio added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021969
The Philippine Army on Wednesday honored a soldier wounded in a recent gun battle with communist rebels in Northern Samar.
Commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Raul Farnacio, pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal on Cpl. Artemio Bendo Jr. at the Camp Lukban Station Hospital. Bendo and other soldiers of the 43rd Infantry Battalion were in Sumoroy village in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar on Jan. 14 for a humanitarian mission when they encountered a group of rebels.
“This award is a manifestation of the degree of sacrifice that a soldier has to pay in order for our fellow Filipinos to continue to live in peace. It is just fitting to commend personnel, such as Corporal Bendo, who risked his life in helping and protecting the less fortunate in the far-flung areas,” Farnacio said in a statement sent to media on Wednesday.
This is the second clash between soldiers and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) since the end of the holiday truce on January 2.
The first encounter was on Jan. 3 when two rebels were killed in upland Hilapnitan village in Baybay City.
“The successful encounters of our government troops are the result of our effort to defeat the communist terrorists in support of President Duterte’s campaign against rebels who continue to extort money from communities and private businesses and employ atrocities against civilians,” Farnacio added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021969
BBL to be passed before Senate adjourns in March: Zubiri
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): BBL to be passed before Senate adjourns in March: Zubiri
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday said he expects the Senate to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) before it adjourns session in March.
Zubiri, chair of the Senate subcommittee on the BBL, made this statement after he filed a new measure on the creation of a BBL version which is approved by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC).
“Today, (Tuesday) I withdrew my original bill which is not the BTC version and filed today, Senate Bill No. 1646, a BTC-approved version so that they would come and wholeheartedly participate in the deliberations,” Zubiri told reporters in an interview.
“We’d like to assure the President (Rodrigo Duterte) and the Filipino people that we are prioritizing the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he added. “Hopefully, this will set the tone for long and lasting peace in Mindanao.”
Zubiri said his committee will resume hearings on the BBL on January 23 (Tuesday). The first hearing on the BBL was held last December 20 while the Senate was already on Christmas break.
Succeeding hearings will be held in all parts of the Philippines including Cotabato City, Marawi City, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BaSulTa)
If hearing schedules go as planned, Zubiri said, then the committee report on the BBL will be ready by third week of February.
“I’d like to finish the discussions on second and third reading by second week of March -- before the break. My time line is we’re having hearings next week, we’re having out of town hearings that weekend, we have a break one week then on February 8 to 11 we’ll be back in the BaSulTa and come back to Manila,” Zubiri said.
“We’ll have the committee report ready by third week of February, right after Valentines. After which, I will bring the committee report to plenary and have at least three weeks to pass the measure,” he added.
To date, Zubiri said only two or three of his colleagues in the Senate are hesitant about their support for his measure.
“There’s only a few, maybe two or three that are a bit hesitant but the majority are fully supportive of the BBL,” Zubiri said refusing to name the senators -- both from majority and minority -- who were hesitant.
Zubiri, however, eventually named Senator Antonio Trillanes IV as the senator who questioned the possibility of the new Bangsamoro purchasing firearms and military equipment.
He assured him though that he could insert into the law that the new Bangsamoro entity cannot use their money to purchase weapons.
“Under the new BTC-version, their police will still be under the Philippine National Police and their armed forces will still be under the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Zubiri said.
Zubiri said some senators still had the “old version” of the BBL in mind which had a lot of unconstitutional provisions.
He clarified that Trillanes did not “oppose” his measure but merely raised concerns.
He believes he could convince majority of his colleagues to support his measure.
The senator also said that he has also asked President Duterte to certify the BBL proposal as urgent.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021804
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday said he expects the Senate to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) before it adjourns session in March.
Zubiri, chair of the Senate subcommittee on the BBL, made this statement after he filed a new measure on the creation of a BBL version which is approved by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC).
“Today, (Tuesday) I withdrew my original bill which is not the BTC version and filed today, Senate Bill No. 1646, a BTC-approved version so that they would come and wholeheartedly participate in the deliberations,” Zubiri told reporters in an interview.
“We’d like to assure the President (Rodrigo Duterte) and the Filipino people that we are prioritizing the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he added. “Hopefully, this will set the tone for long and lasting peace in Mindanao.”
Zubiri said his committee will resume hearings on the BBL on January 23 (Tuesday). The first hearing on the BBL was held last December 20 while the Senate was already on Christmas break.
Succeeding hearings will be held in all parts of the Philippines including Cotabato City, Marawi City, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BaSulTa)
If hearing schedules go as planned, Zubiri said, then the committee report on the BBL will be ready by third week of February.
“I’d like to finish the discussions on second and third reading by second week of March -- before the break. My time line is we’re having hearings next week, we’re having out of town hearings that weekend, we have a break one week then on February 8 to 11 we’ll be back in the BaSulTa and come back to Manila,” Zubiri said.
“We’ll have the committee report ready by third week of February, right after Valentines. After which, I will bring the committee report to plenary and have at least three weeks to pass the measure,” he added.
To date, Zubiri said only two or three of his colleagues in the Senate are hesitant about their support for his measure.
“There’s only a few, maybe two or three that are a bit hesitant but the majority are fully supportive of the BBL,” Zubiri said refusing to name the senators -- both from majority and minority -- who were hesitant.
Zubiri, however, eventually named Senator Antonio Trillanes IV as the senator who questioned the possibility of the new Bangsamoro purchasing firearms and military equipment.
He assured him though that he could insert into the law that the new Bangsamoro entity cannot use their money to purchase weapons.
“Under the new BTC-version, their police will still be under the Philippine National Police and their armed forces will still be under the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Zubiri said.
Zubiri said some senators still had the “old version” of the BBL in mind which had a lot of unconstitutional provisions.
He clarified that Trillanes did not “oppose” his measure but merely raised concerns.
He believes he could convince majority of his colleagues to support his measure.
The senator also said that he has also asked President Duterte to certify the BBL proposal as urgent.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021804
SOLCOM disaster response units alerted for Mayon unrest
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): SOLCOM disaster response units alerted for Mayon unrest
The Lucena-based Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) placed all its disaster response units (DRUs) on alert following the series of phreatic explosions and lava flow coming from the Mayon Volcano early this week.
This was disclosed by SOLCOM spokesperson Col. Teody T. Toribio said in a statement forwarded to reporters.
"Disaster response personnel and mobility assets of 9th Infantry Division, Tactical Operations Group 5 and Naval Forces, Southern Luzon are all prepositioned in Camp Simeon Ola, Legazpi City for the continuous deployment for pre-emptive evacuation of residents residing in the 6-8 kilometer Permanent Danger Zone," he added.
Toribio also said the designated operations and civil-military operations officers of the 901st Infantry Brigade under the Task Force Sagip were constantly coordinating with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) for updates and response operations.
“While we maintain a close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense 5, (OCD 5) some of our disaster response teams are already in the area assisting the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Albay in the evacuation of residents in the remote affected barangays of Guinobatan and Camalig towns,” SOLCOM commander Lt. Gen. Danilo G. Pamonag said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021874
The Lucena-based Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) placed all its disaster response units (DRUs) on alert following the series of phreatic explosions and lava flow coming from the Mayon Volcano early this week.
This was disclosed by SOLCOM spokesperson Col. Teody T. Toribio said in a statement forwarded to reporters.
"Disaster response personnel and mobility assets of 9th Infantry Division, Tactical Operations Group 5 and Naval Forces, Southern Luzon are all prepositioned in Camp Simeon Ola, Legazpi City for the continuous deployment for pre-emptive evacuation of residents residing in the 6-8 kilometer Permanent Danger Zone," he added.
Toribio also said the designated operations and civil-military operations officers of the 901st Infantry Brigade under the Task Force Sagip were constantly coordinating with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) for updates and response operations.
“While we maintain a close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense 5, (OCD 5) some of our disaster response teams are already in the area assisting the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Albay in the evacuation of residents in the remote affected barangays of Guinobatan and Camalig towns,” SOLCOM commander Lt. Gen. Danilo G. Pamonag said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021874
Design review of 2 frigates to undergo technical inspection: DND
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): Design review of 2 frigates to undergo technical inspection: DND
The so-called "Critical Design Review" (CDR) of the two frigates, on order from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries, has been completed and will now be undergoing examination by the Philippine Navy's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) this week.
This was disclosed by Defense public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in an interview Monday.
"The CDR has been completed and by this week, it will be undergoing inspection by the Navy's TIAC," he added.
Andolong said it was the Navy and Hyundai who created the CDR.
Once approved, the CDR will serve as the "Bible" of the shipbuilder in constructing the ship and putting the systems desired by the customer or end-user.
The two frigates, along with their weapon systems and munition, have a contract of PHP18 billion.
Once delivered and commissioned in 2020, the frigates will be the first Filipino warships capable of neutralizing surface, subsurface and air threats with missile and other modern armaments.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021900
The so-called "Critical Design Review" (CDR) of the two frigates, on order from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries, has been completed and will now be undergoing examination by the Philippine Navy's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) this week.
This was disclosed by Defense public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in an interview Monday.
"The CDR has been completed and by this week, it will be undergoing inspection by the Navy's TIAC," he added.
Andolong said it was the Navy and Hyundai who created the CDR.
Once approved, the CDR will serve as the "Bible" of the shipbuilder in constructing the ship and putting the systems desired by the customer or end-user.
The two frigates, along with their weapon systems and munition, have a contract of PHP18 billion.
Once delivered and commissioned in 2020, the frigates will be the first Filipino warships capable of neutralizing surface, subsurface and air threats with missile and other modern armaments.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021900
Bong Go didn’t interfere in frigate project: DND sec
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): Bong Go didn’t interfere in frigate project: DND sec
Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go did not, in any way, interfere with the Philippine Navy's (PN) PHP18-billion Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP), Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Wednesday.
“The President (Rodrigo Duterte) has already addressed the issue of the alleged “intervention” of SAP Bong Go and the SND (Secretary of National Defense) is confirming that no intervention or interference by Sec. Bong Go happened.,” Lorenzana said in a statement.
“The document that the SND alluded to have been given to him by Sec. Bong Go, was handed to him at the Palace so he assumed that it came from Sec. Bong Go. The document originated from Hanwha, one of the CMS proponents for the Frigate project,” he added.
The defense chief also noted that he forwarded the document to the flag officer in command (FOIC) for clarification, who in turn gave it to PN chief, Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad.
Empedrad was the chief of the Frigate Project Management Team at the time.
“Admiral Empedrad wrote a reply to the document stating the preferred CMS of the Phil Navy. There was no hint or guidance from the Palace or from Sec Bong Go to influence the conduct or direction of the project. There is a contract for the Frigate which was crafted mainly with the help of the Phil Navy, it will be implemented strictly as it is,” Lorenzana added.
Existing FAP contract
DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, meanwhile, echoed Lorenzana’s remarks, noting that there was neither a hint nor guidance from the Palace or from Go to influence the implementation of the project.
"There is a contract for the FAP which was crafted mainly by the Philippine Navy and it will be implemented strictly to the letter," Andolong said.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program at it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
As this developed, Andolong said there is no good reason to cancel the FAP despite suggestions coming from some members of Congress.
Earlier, Magdalo partylist Rep. Gary Alejano claimed that the FAP project is bombarded with anomalies and that its design was altered from the original.
This includes the alleged preference for the Hanwha CMS, the lawmaker said.
"There is a proper process prescribed in RA 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act) concerning the termination of a procurement project and there are specific conditions that must be present in order to invoke it, none of which are existing at the moment in this project," Andolong added.
The DND spokesperson added that the anomalies claimed by Alejano are mere allegations and innuendos which hardly constitute grounds for termination of the project.
Unfairly dragged
Go, for his part, said his name was unfairly dragged in this issue.
"I am not privy to the frigate transaction of the DND. I have never seen the controversial document (white paper) that is alleged to have come from me, much less, handed the same to SND Lorenzana. In fact, I will resign if it can be proven that I intervened,” Go said in a statement.
“It should be emphasized that the Frigate project was already a done deal in 2016 during the time of former President (Benigno) Aquino," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021936
Special Assistant to the President Christopher "Bong" Go did not, in any way, interfere with the Philippine Navy's (PN) PHP18-billion Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP), Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Wednesday.
“The President (Rodrigo Duterte) has already addressed the issue of the alleged “intervention” of SAP Bong Go and the SND (Secretary of National Defense) is confirming that no intervention or interference by Sec. Bong Go happened.,” Lorenzana said in a statement.
“The document that the SND alluded to have been given to him by Sec. Bong Go, was handed to him at the Palace so he assumed that it came from Sec. Bong Go. The document originated from Hanwha, one of the CMS proponents for the Frigate project,” he added.
The defense chief also noted that he forwarded the document to the flag officer in command (FOIC) for clarification, who in turn gave it to PN chief, Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad.
Empedrad was the chief of the Frigate Project Management Team at the time.
“Admiral Empedrad wrote a reply to the document stating the preferred CMS of the Phil Navy. There was no hint or guidance from the Palace or from Sec Bong Go to influence the conduct or direction of the project. There is a contract for the Frigate which was crafted mainly with the help of the Phil Navy, it will be implemented strictly as it is,” Lorenzana added.
Existing FAP contract
DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, meanwhile, echoed Lorenzana’s remarks, noting that there was neither a hint nor guidance from the Palace or from Go to influence the implementation of the project.
"There is a contract for the FAP which was crafted mainly by the Philippine Navy and it will be implemented strictly to the letter," Andolong said.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program at it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
As this developed, Andolong said there is no good reason to cancel the FAP despite suggestions coming from some members of Congress.
Earlier, Magdalo partylist Rep. Gary Alejano claimed that the FAP project is bombarded with anomalies and that its design was altered from the original.
This includes the alleged preference for the Hanwha CMS, the lawmaker said.
"There is a proper process prescribed in RA 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act) concerning the termination of a procurement project and there are specific conditions that must be present in order to invoke it, none of which are existing at the moment in this project," Andolong added.
The DND spokesperson added that the anomalies claimed by Alejano are mere allegations and innuendos which hardly constitute grounds for termination of the project.
Unfairly dragged
Go, for his part, said his name was unfairly dragged in this issue.
"I am not privy to the frigate transaction of the DND. I have never seen the controversial document (white paper) that is alleged to have come from me, much less, handed the same to SND Lorenzana. In fact, I will resign if it can be proven that I intervened,” Go said in a statement.
“It should be emphasized that the Frigate project was already a done deal in 2016 during the time of former President (Benigno) Aquino," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021936
Ex-Navy chief: Bong Go no hand in FAP
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 17): Ex-Navy chief: Bong Go no hand in FAP
Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher ‘Bong’ Go never asked anything about the Philippine Navy's PHP18-billion Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP).
This, according to former Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Ronaldo Joseph Mercado, in an interview Wednesday.
"This morning, my attention was caught by the reports when I saw a piece of paper, a ‘post it’, with my name on it, about an instruction given to me by the Secretary of National Defense about the Frigate, and apparently because of that there were insinuations about Secretary Bong Go, and you know I just like to come out because, on my side when I was FOIC (flag officer in command), he never once, with so many times, we were together in many foreign navy ships, and there was never an instance, not once that he even asked me about the frigate, never, and kaya when I'm hearing the news, well on my side only, he never intervened much more talk to me about these things," he said.
It can be recalled that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana relieved Mercado from his post last Dec. 18, 2017, citing loss of trust and confidence on the integrity and leadership of the naval officer.
This stemmed from the alleged fixation of the former on one company to supply the combat management system (CMS) of the country's Frigate project, a contract won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.
"Let me rephrase Secretary Bong Go never directly mentioned to me anything about the Frigate or indirectly from another person, I never heard any other person mention the name of Secretary Bong Go in relation to the frigates, walang ganun." Mercado said when asked on whether Lorenzana told or ordered him to do something about the FAP, upon the alleged orders of the SAP.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program at it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021945
Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher ‘Bong’ Go never asked anything about the Philippine Navy's PHP18-billion Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP).
This, according to former Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Ronaldo Joseph Mercado, in an interview Wednesday.
"This morning, my attention was caught by the reports when I saw a piece of paper, a ‘post it’, with my name on it, about an instruction given to me by the Secretary of National Defense about the Frigate, and apparently because of that there were insinuations about Secretary Bong Go, and you know I just like to come out because, on my side when I was FOIC (flag officer in command), he never once, with so many times, we were together in many foreign navy ships, and there was never an instance, not once that he even asked me about the frigate, never, and kaya when I'm hearing the news, well on my side only, he never intervened much more talk to me about these things," he said.
It can be recalled that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana relieved Mercado from his post last Dec. 18, 2017, citing loss of trust and confidence on the integrity and leadership of the naval officer.
This stemmed from the alleged fixation of the former on one company to supply the combat management system (CMS) of the country's Frigate project, a contract won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.
"Let me rephrase Secretary Bong Go never directly mentioned to me anything about the Frigate or indirectly from another person, I never heard any other person mention the name of Secretary Bong Go in relation to the frigates, walang ganun." Mercado said when asked on whether Lorenzana told or ordered him to do something about the FAP, upon the alleged orders of the SAP.
The FAP is one of the key pieces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program at it seeks to provide the country with the capability to deal with air, surface and sub-surface threats.
It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable of defeating such threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021945
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