From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 2): CLEARED | Insurgency-Free Pangasinan underway
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD) – Officers of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army and the provincial government officials of Pangasinan convened at the Provincial Capitol in Lingayen today, for the evaluation of the province as “insurgency-free.”
Last June 13, 2018, a Joint Recommendation between the 702nd Infantry Brigade, 7ID, PA and the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office was signed, endorsing Pangasinan to be declared as “Insurgency Free”.
A requirement prior to the declaration of Pangasinan as “insurgency free” is a pronouncement of the Area Clearing Evaluation Board (ACEB) that the province is “cleared” of local terrorist groups (LTGs) and the Communist NPA terrorists (CNTs).
Main agenda of the ACEB meeting today is to evaluate the area clearing conducted by the Area Clearing Evaluation Team (ACET) based on given parameters that qualifies an area to be “insurgency free”.
Leading the 7ID group during the meeting is Brigadier General Lenard T. Agustin, while representing the province of Pangasinan is the ACEB Chair and Pangasinan Governor Amado I. Espino III.
It is hoped that before the year ends, Pangasinan will finally be declared as “Insurgency Free.” NOLCOM PIO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/cleared-insurgency-free-pangasinan-underway/
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
DWDD: CAPABLE AND READY | 1st IB wins 2ID Squad Challenge ’18 (VIDEO)
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 2): CAPABLE AND READY | 1st IB wins 2ID Squad Challenge ’18 (VIDEO)
CAMP MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal (DWDD) – The 1st Infantry “Always First” Battalion emerged as over-all Champion to the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division five (5) days 12th Rifle and Disaster Response Operation (DRO) Squad Challenge 2018 here at Camp Capinpin, Brgy Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal on September 24-28, 2018.
Colonel Marceliano V Teofilo PA, Chief of Staff, 2ID and the keynote speaker led the culmination activity.
The squad challenge is in line with the Commanding General, Philippine Army’s thrust in strengthening squad’s combat capabilities and readiness, as well as in disaster rescue and relief operations.
The squads showed their competing skills in water search and rescue, high angle rescue, military stakes, physical fitness test, land navigation, first aid, immediate action drill and endurance firing.
Meanwhile, the Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBN) won 2nd place while the 59th Infantry (CAFGU) Battalion (59IB) got the 3rd place.
This year’s event was participated by nine (9) squads from post units and subordinate battalions of 2ID. 1DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/capable-and-ready-1st-ib-wins-2id-squad-challenge-18-video/
CAMP MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal (DWDD) – The 1st Infantry “Always First” Battalion emerged as over-all Champion to the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division five (5) days 12th Rifle and Disaster Response Operation (DRO) Squad Challenge 2018 here at Camp Capinpin, Brgy Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal on September 24-28, 2018.
Colonel Marceliano V Teofilo PA, Chief of Staff, 2ID and the keynote speaker led the culmination activity.
The squad challenge is in line with the Commanding General, Philippine Army’s thrust in strengthening squad’s combat capabilities and readiness, as well as in disaster rescue and relief operations.
The squads showed their competing skills in water search and rescue, high angle rescue, military stakes, physical fitness test, land navigation, first aid, immediate action drill and endurance firing.
Meanwhile, the Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBN) won 2nd place while the 59th Infantry (CAFGU) Battalion (59IB) got the 3rd place.
This year’s event was participated by nine (9) squads from post units and subordinate battalions of 2ID. 1DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/capable-and-ready-1st-ib-wins-2id-squad-challenge-18-video/
DWDD: PN-RUSSIA VISIT | PN engages Russian Navy in Friendly matches
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 2): PN-RUSSIA VISIT | PN engages Russian Navy in Friendly matches
VLADIVOSTOK, Russia (DWDD) – The crew of BRP Tarlac (LD-601) engaged Russian Navy personnel in various Friendly matches on the second day of the Naval Task Force 87 five (5) day visit to Russia.
[Videos]
AES / LMC / Photo-Video Ssg Sablon PAF
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/pn-russia-visit-pn-engages-russian-navy-in-friendly-matches/
VLADIVOSTOK, Russia (DWDD) – The crew of BRP Tarlac (LD-601) engaged Russian Navy personnel in various Friendly matches on the second day of the Naval Task Force 87 five (5) day visit to Russia.
[Videos]
AES / LMC / Photo-Video Ssg Sablon PAF
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/pn-russia-visit-pn-engages-russian-navy-in-friendly-matches/
DWDD: QUALITY SERVICE | AGP Conferral at 7ID
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Oct 2): QUALITY SERVICE | AGP Conferral at 7ID
CAMP SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD – 14 Units of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division was conferred the Army Governance Pathway (AGP) today during the Division’s Flag Raising Ceremony on October 01, 2018.
The 7ID AGP is an adoption of the Army Governance Pathway from the Performance Governance System (PGS) Pathway of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA).
The AGP is a process that consists of four stages: Initiated, Compliant, Proficient, and Institutionalized. Related sets of requirements and eligibilities should be accomplished to serve as the basis for the conferral of status per stage.
This morning, the following 7ID units and offices were conferred the following AGP statuses:
For the Initiated Status
Gender and Development Office
For the Compliant Status
Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics (OG4)
Office of the Division Judge Advocate (ODJA)
Office of the Division Adjutant (ODA)
Office of the Division Provost Marshal (ODPM)
Office of the Ethical Standard and Public Accountability (OESPA)
Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO)
Division Real Estate Office (DREO)
Gender and Development Office (GADO)
Fort Magsaysay Army Station Hospital (FMASH)
Real Estate Preservation and Economic Welfare Center (REPEWC)
71st Division Reconnaissance Company (71DRC)
72nd Division Reconnaissance Company (72DRC)
73rd Division Reconnaissance Company (73DRC)
Major General Felimon T. Santos, Jr., Commander of 7ID, assisted by Colonel Dennis R. Pacis, the Chief of the Governance and Strategy Management Office (GSMO), awarded the AGP Plaque for the Initiated status and the AGP Medallion for the compliant status to the 7ID units and offices.
The 7ID has already reached the Institutionalized stage in the AGP; however, the post and line units, and offices of 7ID have yet to reach the highest level. To this end, all units and offices of the Command are exerting all efforts in hope that by next, there will be 7ID units and offices qualified to vie for the Proficient status and then finally work for the Institutionalized stage.
After the AGP conferral, a Donning of Ranks was also conducted for the 7ID officers who were promoted to the next higher rank. Eight officers were promoted to the rank of Major, while one officer was promoted to the rank of Captain.
MGen. Santos, Jr., congratulated the newly promoted officers and encouraged them to raise their level of service as honorable officers. He likewise encouraged all other units and offices of 7ID to never stop aiming for the Institutionalized status as it will not only bring honor to the Command but will also ensure that best practices become the “norm” within the Division.
The 7ID Officers who received the AGP Conferral Status for their Units/Offices with MGen. Felimon T. Santos, Jr., Commander, 7ID, PA.
The 7ID Officers who were promoted to the next higher rank.
7DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/quality-service-agp-conferral-at-7id/
CAMP SERVILLANO AQUINO, Tarlac City (DWDD – 14 Units of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division was conferred the Army Governance Pathway (AGP) today during the Division’s Flag Raising Ceremony on October 01, 2018.
The 7ID AGP is an adoption of the Army Governance Pathway from the Performance Governance System (PGS) Pathway of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA).
The AGP is a process that consists of four stages: Initiated, Compliant, Proficient, and Institutionalized. Related sets of requirements and eligibilities should be accomplished to serve as the basis for the conferral of status per stage.
This morning, the following 7ID units and offices were conferred the following AGP statuses:
For the Initiated Status
Gender and Development Office
For the Compliant Status
Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics (OG4)
Office of the Division Judge Advocate (ODJA)
Office of the Division Adjutant (ODA)
Office of the Division Provost Marshal (ODPM)
Office of the Ethical Standard and Public Accountability (OESPA)
Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO)
Division Real Estate Office (DREO)
Gender and Development Office (GADO)
Fort Magsaysay Army Station Hospital (FMASH)
Real Estate Preservation and Economic Welfare Center (REPEWC)
71st Division Reconnaissance Company (71DRC)
72nd Division Reconnaissance Company (72DRC)
73rd Division Reconnaissance Company (73DRC)
Major General Felimon T. Santos, Jr., Commander of 7ID, assisted by Colonel Dennis R. Pacis, the Chief of the Governance and Strategy Management Office (GSMO), awarded the AGP Plaque for the Initiated status and the AGP Medallion for the compliant status to the 7ID units and offices.
The 7ID has already reached the Institutionalized stage in the AGP; however, the post and line units, and offices of 7ID have yet to reach the highest level. To this end, all units and offices of the Command are exerting all efforts in hope that by next, there will be 7ID units and offices qualified to vie for the Proficient status and then finally work for the Institutionalized stage.
After the AGP conferral, a Donning of Ranks was also conducted for the 7ID officers who were promoted to the next higher rank. Eight officers were promoted to the rank of Major, while one officer was promoted to the rank of Captain.
MGen. Santos, Jr., congratulated the newly promoted officers and encouraged them to raise their level of service as honorable officers. He likewise encouraged all other units and offices of 7ID to never stop aiming for the Institutionalized status as it will not only bring honor to the Command but will also ensure that best practices become the “norm” within the Division.
The 7ID Officers who received the AGP Conferral Status for their Units/Offices with MGen. Felimon T. Santos, Jr., Commander, 7ID, PA.
The 7ID Officers who were promoted to the next higher rank.
7DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/10/02/quality-service-agp-conferral-at-7id/
Shia group joins efforts to ‘lick’ extremism, terrorism
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): Shia group joins efforts to ‘lick’ extremism, terrorism
Philippine Ahlul Bayt Islamic Assembly, Inc. office in Zamboanga
Shortly before the start of the Marawi siege last year, at least six of their Islamic Shia sect’s members were documented to have been killed by the ISIS terrorists, a Muslim faith leader has said.
Philippine Ahlul Bayt Islamic Assembly, Inc. vice-president Hadji Salman Galang said more killings may have taken place during the siege, which may not have been documented.
In an interview on Sept. 28, Ahlul Bayt Assembly president Sheikh Denil Anawari said ISIS killed their brothers because Shia espouses a moderate form of Islam.
This, he said, is in sharp contrast to the extremist ideology of ISIS, which has its roots to an ancient fundamentalist hardcore sect of Islam.
Ahlul Bayt Assembly president Sheikh Denil Anawari
Along with the Christian population in Mindanao, the Shiites in the Philippines also feel threatened by this form of violent extremism, which he said remains quite potent even after the ISIS’ defeat in Marawi.
His brothers have been bullied on social media, and their children have been harassed even here in Zamboanga.
This is the reason, he said, why his organization has been actively involved in the ongoing grassroots campaign against violent extremism and terrorism or VET in Zamboanga, waged jointly by government and security agencies and the civil society.
He has been tapped, he said, to regularly give lectures to students and police personnel about extremist ideology as compared to moderate Islamic teachings.
The latest took place in a symposium last week sponsored by the city directorate of the Philippine National Police in Zamboanga for its personnel.
“Shia teaches obedience to the laws of the community and society,” UstadzAnawari said. “Islam has nothing to do with violent extremism. Our religion teaches love and compassion for all peoples. This is our guiding principle”.
Galang said fundamentalist ideology was introduced in Mindanao in the 1980s when ulamas who trained in certain Middle East countries came home to spread radicalism.
By early 1990s, he said the Abu Sayyaf was formed and more sectarian jihadist groups followed suit.
Nowadays, Galang said, even more radical ulamas trained in Africa are introducing more insidious teachings, wherein they even clash ideologically with other extremist groups in Mindanao.
Ustadz Anawari said both the Koran and Prophet Mohammad teach respect for people professing other faiths and to refrain from assailing them for as long as they do not cause injury to Muslims.
In Shia, he said, only the supreme religious leader and no one else beneath him may declare jihad (holy war) against perceived enemies.
True Islam, according to him, also promotes continuous religious education for Muslims for them to correct their values and actions.
Shia ulamas regularly gather their communities to educate them about Islamic teachings.
There are a number of Shia communities, many of them comparatively small, located throughout Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu Archipelago and a few more in other parts of Mindanao.
Security, academic and non-government organizations in Zamboanga have been conducting symposia in selected local schools since last month to discuss VET issues with high school students.
The program was initiated by the United Nations in 2016, and the Philippine government has adopted the multi-pronged approach to study the roots of terrorism and to implement projects to stem the threat.
Mindanao has recently been rocked by bombings, with the explosion in Lamitan, Basilan last July among the deadliest. The ISIS claimed credit for that attack.
A published news report last year quoted Alih Aiyub, secretary-general of the Ulama Council of the Philippines, as saying that “they (ulamas) will use ‘multi-disciplinary approaches’ in countering violent extremism.”
Aiyub added, "(t)he ulama will handle the spiritual aspect to combat terrorism and win the hearts and minds of those radicalized through sermons in mosques.”
The program, he said, will also include working with educational institutions “to provide a primer, or module, as reference material and train teachers for effective prevention of violent extremism among students”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049728
Philippine Ahlul Bayt Islamic Assembly, Inc. office in Zamboanga
Shortly before the start of the Marawi siege last year, at least six of their Islamic Shia sect’s members were documented to have been killed by the ISIS terrorists, a Muslim faith leader has said.
Philippine Ahlul Bayt Islamic Assembly, Inc. vice-president Hadji Salman Galang said more killings may have taken place during the siege, which may not have been documented.
In an interview on Sept. 28, Ahlul Bayt Assembly president Sheikh Denil Anawari said ISIS killed their brothers because Shia espouses a moderate form of Islam.
This, he said, is in sharp contrast to the extremist ideology of ISIS, which has its roots to an ancient fundamentalist hardcore sect of Islam.
Ahlul Bayt Assembly president Sheikh Denil Anawari
Along with the Christian population in Mindanao, the Shiites in the Philippines also feel threatened by this form of violent extremism, which he said remains quite potent even after the ISIS’ defeat in Marawi.
His brothers have been bullied on social media, and their children have been harassed even here in Zamboanga.
This is the reason, he said, why his organization has been actively involved in the ongoing grassroots campaign against violent extremism and terrorism or VET in Zamboanga, waged jointly by government and security agencies and the civil society.
He has been tapped, he said, to regularly give lectures to students and police personnel about extremist ideology as compared to moderate Islamic teachings.
The latest took place in a symposium last week sponsored by the city directorate of the Philippine National Police in Zamboanga for its personnel.
“Shia teaches obedience to the laws of the community and society,” UstadzAnawari said. “Islam has nothing to do with violent extremism. Our religion teaches love and compassion for all peoples. This is our guiding principle”.
Galang said fundamentalist ideology was introduced in Mindanao in the 1980s when ulamas who trained in certain Middle East countries came home to spread radicalism.
By early 1990s, he said the Abu Sayyaf was formed and more sectarian jihadist groups followed suit.
Nowadays, Galang said, even more radical ulamas trained in Africa are introducing more insidious teachings, wherein they even clash ideologically with other extremist groups in Mindanao.
Ustadz Anawari said both the Koran and Prophet Mohammad teach respect for people professing other faiths and to refrain from assailing them for as long as they do not cause injury to Muslims.
In Shia, he said, only the supreme religious leader and no one else beneath him may declare jihad (holy war) against perceived enemies.
True Islam, according to him, also promotes continuous religious education for Muslims for them to correct their values and actions.
Shia ulamas regularly gather their communities to educate them about Islamic teachings.
There are a number of Shia communities, many of them comparatively small, located throughout Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu Archipelago and a few more in other parts of Mindanao.
Security, academic and non-government organizations in Zamboanga have been conducting symposia in selected local schools since last month to discuss VET issues with high school students.
The program was initiated by the United Nations in 2016, and the Philippine government has adopted the multi-pronged approach to study the roots of terrorism and to implement projects to stem the threat.
Mindanao has recently been rocked by bombings, with the explosion in Lamitan, Basilan last July among the deadliest. The ISIS claimed credit for that attack.
A published news report last year quoted Alih Aiyub, secretary-general of the Ulama Council of the Philippines, as saying that “they (ulamas) will use ‘multi-disciplinary approaches’ in countering violent extremism.”
Aiyub added, "(t)he ulama will handle the spiritual aspect to combat terrorism and win the hearts and minds of those radicalized through sermons in mosques.”
The program, he said, will also include working with educational institutions “to provide a primer, or module, as reference material and train teachers for effective prevention of violent extremism among students”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049728
2 Maguindanao towns surrender loose firearms to Army
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): 2 Maguindanao towns surrender loose firearms to Army
FIREARMS SURRENDER. The 11 firearms surrendered by civilians in the towns of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Sultan sa Barongis as facilitated by their respective local officials on Monday (Oct. 1, 2018) at the headquarters of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. (Photo courtesy of 6th ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Officials from the towns of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Sultan sa Barongis in this province on Monday turned over to authorities 11 loose firearms from residents in their respective areas.
Handed over during a simple ceremony held at the headquarters of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao were four M79 grenade launchers, an Ultimax light machine gun, two Barrett sniper rifles, a Carbine rifle, a KG9 machine pistol, and two .38 caliber pistols.
“This endeavor forms part of the Army’s 601st Brigade efforts to recover loose firearms in the area,” said Major Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) spokesperson.
Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander and concurrent head of Joint Task Force Central, said efforts are sustained to work hand-in-hand in cooperation with other stakeholders in order to achieved peace and development in the area.
“I would like to express my utmost appreciation to the officials of the two towns who facilitated the handing over of the firearms and who have shown undying support for all our undertakings,” Sobejana said in a statement.
Since January this year, a total of 1,146 loose firearms were handed over to the 6th ID command.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049703
FIREARMS SURRENDER. The 11 firearms surrendered by civilians in the towns of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Sultan sa Barongis as facilitated by their respective local officials on Monday (Oct. 1, 2018) at the headquarters of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. (Photo courtesy of 6th ID)
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Officials from the towns of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Sultan sa Barongis in this province on Monday turned over to authorities 11 loose firearms from residents in their respective areas.
Handed over during a simple ceremony held at the headquarters of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao were four M79 grenade launchers, an Ultimax light machine gun, two Barrett sniper rifles, a Carbine rifle, a KG9 machine pistol, and two .38 caliber pistols.
“This endeavor forms part of the Army’s 601st Brigade efforts to recover loose firearms in the area,” said Major Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) spokesperson.
Major Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander and concurrent head of Joint Task Force Central, said efforts are sustained to work hand-in-hand in cooperation with other stakeholders in order to achieved peace and development in the area.
“I would like to express my utmost appreciation to the officials of the two towns who facilitated the handing over of the firearms and who have shown undying support for all our undertakings,” Sobejana said in a statement.
Since January this year, a total of 1,146 loose firearms were handed over to the 6th ID command.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049703
SAP Go lauds peace, dev’t efforts in Bicol
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): SAP Go lauds peace, dev’t efforts in Bicol
Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go expressed his gratitude to the Army’s 9th Infantry Spear Division (9ID) for its invaluable efforts in supporting peace and development in the Bicol region.
Go, who was guest-of-honor during the celebration of the 14th Founding Anniversary of 9ID at Camp Elias Angeles here Monday afternoon, said the strong cooperation and collaboration among the Army, local political leaders, law enforcers, private sector partners, and other stakeholders, is the formula to achieve peace and development.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to improve the transport of goods and services in Camarines Sur and the rest of the region through the administration’s "Build, Build, Build" Program.
“In August 2018, the Department of Finance included in its shortlist the proposed Camarines Sur-Catanduanes Friendship Road as one of its 12 big projects, which will be funded by the Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank (AIIB),” he said.
“The Department of Public Works and Highways is now conducting its studies on the PHP2.25-billion Camarines Sur Expressway project,” he added.
Also among the government’s projects is the PHP300-billion PNR South Long Haul Project that would shorten the travel time from Manila to Sorsogon and vice versa, Go said.
He added that the PHP4.74-billion Pasacao-Balatan Coastal Tourism Highway in Camarines Sur, which will be funded by the AIIB, is in the pipeline.
“The transportation projects will surely encourage tourists to visit the watersports park here in Pili and other local attractions throughout the province,” he said.
Meanwhile, for Albay, “the Department of Budget and Management has approved the construction of waterworks systems and the upgrading of existing water system facilities in several towns to provide adequate and safe water supply in the entire province,” Go said.
He also emphasized the three-point campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte against drugs, corruption, and criminality, for which he sought the continued support of Bicolanos.
Apart from the members of the 9ID, in attendance during the event were Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 9ID Assistant Division Commander Brig. Gen. Arnulfo C. Matanguihan, 9ID Commander Major Gen. Jesus A. Manangquil Jr., leaders of local government units across the region, representatives of Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol), and several local entrepreneurs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049737
Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go expressed his gratitude to the Army’s 9th Infantry Spear Division (9ID) for its invaluable efforts in supporting peace and development in the Bicol region.
Go, who was guest-of-honor during the celebration of the 14th Founding Anniversary of 9ID at Camp Elias Angeles here Monday afternoon, said the strong cooperation and collaboration among the Army, local political leaders, law enforcers, private sector partners, and other stakeholders, is the formula to achieve peace and development.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to improve the transport of goods and services in Camarines Sur and the rest of the region through the administration’s "Build, Build, Build" Program.
“In August 2018, the Department of Finance included in its shortlist the proposed Camarines Sur-Catanduanes Friendship Road as one of its 12 big projects, which will be funded by the Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank (AIIB),” he said.
“The Department of Public Works and Highways is now conducting its studies on the PHP2.25-billion Camarines Sur Expressway project,” he added.
Also among the government’s projects is the PHP300-billion PNR South Long Haul Project that would shorten the travel time from Manila to Sorsogon and vice versa, Go said.
He added that the PHP4.74-billion Pasacao-Balatan Coastal Tourism Highway in Camarines Sur, which will be funded by the AIIB, is in the pipeline.
“The transportation projects will surely encourage tourists to visit the watersports park here in Pili and other local attractions throughout the province,” he said.
Meanwhile, for Albay, “the Department of Budget and Management has approved the construction of waterworks systems and the upgrading of existing water system facilities in several towns to provide adequate and safe water supply in the entire province,” Go said.
He also emphasized the three-point campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte against drugs, corruption, and criminality, for which he sought the continued support of Bicolanos.
Apart from the members of the 9ID, in attendance during the event were Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 9ID Assistant Division Commander Brig. Gen. Arnulfo C. Matanguihan, 9ID Commander Major Gen. Jesus A. Manangquil Jr., leaders of local government units across the region, representatives of Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol), and several local entrepreneurs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049737
PH Navy thanks Russian warm welcome in historic visit
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): PH Navy thanks Russian warm welcome in historic visit
The head of Naval Task Force (NTF) 87 expressed his utmost gratitude to the Russian government for the warm welcome accorded to the officers and enlisted personnel aboard strategic sealift vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601), which is now on its historic first-ever Russian port call at Vladivostok.
Russian ladies gave flowers and bread with salt to NTF head Capt. Florante Gagua as part of their tradition in welcoming guests.
Also present were Russian Navy officers who warmly welcomed members of the NTF-87 who arrived in Vladivostok Monday afternoon.
He also thanked Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert A. Empedrad, for trusting him to lead the Navy contingent in this historic engagement in Russia.
"This and similar activities are great platforms for the Philippine Navy to work closer together with other countries’ navy to address common maritime security concerns, as well as avenues to learn from and enhance relations with navies such as the Russian Navy. The PN endeavors to further enhance and sustain the promotion of peace, stability, and maritime cooperation through navy-to-navy engagements," Gagua said in a statement.
Also present to welcome the visting Navy contingent were Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta and Defense Armed Forces Attache Col. Dennis Francis V. Pastor.
BRP Tarlac's arrival in Vladivostok marks the first time a PN commissioned vessel to visit Russia.
"This is made possible through the Commander-in-Chief's efforts to modernizing your navy as well as the support from all stakeholders in seeing a stronger and more credible maritime organization," he added.
BRP Tarlac's first ever port visit to Russia will be conducted from Oct 1 to 6. She left Manila South Harbor last Sept. 21.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049714
The head of Naval Task Force (NTF) 87 expressed his utmost gratitude to the Russian government for the warm welcome accorded to the officers and enlisted personnel aboard strategic sealift vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601), which is now on its historic first-ever Russian port call at Vladivostok.
Russian ladies gave flowers and bread with salt to NTF head Capt. Florante Gagua as part of their tradition in welcoming guests.
Also present were Russian Navy officers who warmly welcomed members of the NTF-87 who arrived in Vladivostok Monday afternoon.
He also thanked Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert A. Empedrad, for trusting him to lead the Navy contingent in this historic engagement in Russia.
"This and similar activities are great platforms for the Philippine Navy to work closer together with other countries’ navy to address common maritime security concerns, as well as avenues to learn from and enhance relations with navies such as the Russian Navy. The PN endeavors to further enhance and sustain the promotion of peace, stability, and maritime cooperation through navy-to-navy engagements," Gagua said in a statement.
Also present to welcome the visting Navy contingent were Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta and Defense Armed Forces Attache Col. Dennis Francis V. Pastor.
BRP Tarlac's arrival in Vladivostok marks the first time a PN commissioned vessel to visit Russia.
"This is made possible through the Commander-in-Chief's efforts to modernizing your navy as well as the support from all stakeholders in seeing a stronger and more credible maritime organization," he added.
BRP Tarlac's first ever port visit to Russia will be conducted from Oct 1 to 6. She left Manila South Harbor last Sept. 21.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049714
NPAs, terror groups dwindling due to intensified AFP ops
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): NPAs, terror groups dwindling due to intensified AFP ops
Due to intensified security operations nationwide, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it is continuously gaining grounds against the New People's Army (NPA) and other terrorist groups.
This, according to AFP public affairs office chie,f Col. Noel Detoyato, in a statement Tuesday.
He said ongoing military operations against these threat groups led to the massive surrender of NPA regular members and their supporters.
"Just last week, September 26, 2018, 16 communist terrorists from the NPA, including four women and two child warriors surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion in Poblacion, Zamboanga Del Sur. Last Sunday, September 30, three members of Southern Mindanao Regional Command of the NPA voluntarily surrendered to the local chief executives of Barangay Lumiad, and Barangay Magsaysay, Carmen, Davao Del Norte," he said.
Detoyato said a certain alias Ramo, vice commander of the Pulang Bagani Command 1, SRC5, SMRC; an alias Marvin/Isak, team leader of Andoy Primera of the same group; and an alias Joa, medic of the same group, surrendered to the government troops.
"Upon their debriefing, they gave information that led to the recovery of a CAP2 landmine, a caliber .38 revolver, and 400 rounds of ammunition," he added.
Meanwhile, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr., said these surrenders highlights the lack of public support to the NPA.
“Ang mga sumurender ay matataas ang katungkulan sa kanilang organisasyon, sila na din ang nagsabi na hirap na sila at wala nang nakikitang rason upang lumaban pa sa ating pamahalaan (Those who have surrendered are high ranking officials in their organizations. They admitted that they are now having a hard time and they do not see any reason to fight against the government," he said.
As of Sept. 25, a total of 9,606 NPAs and their supporters, including 900 regular and 921 underground mass organization members, have voluntarily surrendered to the government.
Also, 64 former NPA rebels were welcomed back to the mainstream society by Task Force Balik Loob in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley last Sept. 27 and were provided with Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits.
Other former rebels in Southern Mindanao were also provided with livelihood and cash benefits in a program held in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley last Sept. 29.
“It is not too late for you (NPAs) to surrender and leave your current miseries from fighting a useless cause," Galvez said.
Meanwhile, troops of Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion on Oct. 1 foiled a bombing plot of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), after receiving a report from a concerned civilian that terrorists were planning to transport an improvised explosive device (IED).
The IED was found inside a passenger jeepney during checkpoint operation in Barangay Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. The suspected bombers were identified as Kamsali Taguitikan and Rasol, under Karialan faction of the BIFF.
The tipster claimed that the two are planning to transport the IED from the marshy area of Barangay Palongoguen in Midsayap, North Cotabato to conduct terror attack in Cotabato City.
Elements of 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal team of the Army immediately arrived in the area and safely defused the IED.
Recovered from the scene were a 81mm and an 60mm mortar shell, two batteries (dry cell), one roll electrical tape, and wires.
“I commend all the troops who successfully foiled another terror attack that might have killed innocent civilians. I remind every unit and every soldier, airman, sailor, and marine not to let our guards down against terrorists," Galvez said.
“We will continue to intensify our checkpoints and our operations against all these groups that pose a threat to our communities. I call on every individual to be vigilant and actively involved in reporting any suspicious person or activity in their localities. Only with that degree of vigilance of our people, combined with the unceasing efforts of government security forces can we as a nation stop these terrorists," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049711
Due to intensified security operations nationwide, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it is continuously gaining grounds against the New People's Army (NPA) and other terrorist groups.
This, according to AFP public affairs office chie,f Col. Noel Detoyato, in a statement Tuesday.
He said ongoing military operations against these threat groups led to the massive surrender of NPA regular members and their supporters.
"Just last week, September 26, 2018, 16 communist terrorists from the NPA, including four women and two child warriors surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion in Poblacion, Zamboanga Del Sur. Last Sunday, September 30, three members of Southern Mindanao Regional Command of the NPA voluntarily surrendered to the local chief executives of Barangay Lumiad, and Barangay Magsaysay, Carmen, Davao Del Norte," he said.
Detoyato said a certain alias Ramo, vice commander of the Pulang Bagani Command 1, SRC5, SMRC; an alias Marvin/Isak, team leader of Andoy Primera of the same group; and an alias Joa, medic of the same group, surrendered to the government troops.
"Upon their debriefing, they gave information that led to the recovery of a CAP2 landmine, a caliber .38 revolver, and 400 rounds of ammunition," he added.
Meanwhile, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr., said these surrenders highlights the lack of public support to the NPA.
“Ang mga sumurender ay matataas ang katungkulan sa kanilang organisasyon, sila na din ang nagsabi na hirap na sila at wala nang nakikitang rason upang lumaban pa sa ating pamahalaan (Those who have surrendered are high ranking officials in their organizations. They admitted that they are now having a hard time and they do not see any reason to fight against the government," he said.
As of Sept. 25, a total of 9,606 NPAs and their supporters, including 900 regular and 921 underground mass organization members, have voluntarily surrendered to the government.
Also, 64 former NPA rebels were welcomed back to the mainstream society by Task Force Balik Loob in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley last Sept. 27 and were provided with Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits.
Other former rebels in Southern Mindanao were also provided with livelihood and cash benefits in a program held in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley last Sept. 29.
“It is not too late for you (NPAs) to surrender and leave your current miseries from fighting a useless cause," Galvez said.
Meanwhile, troops of Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion on Oct. 1 foiled a bombing plot of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), after receiving a report from a concerned civilian that terrorists were planning to transport an improvised explosive device (IED).
The IED was found inside a passenger jeepney during checkpoint operation in Barangay Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. The suspected bombers were identified as Kamsali Taguitikan and Rasol, under Karialan faction of the BIFF.
The tipster claimed that the two are planning to transport the IED from the marshy area of Barangay Palongoguen in Midsayap, North Cotabato to conduct terror attack in Cotabato City.
Elements of 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal team of the Army immediately arrived in the area and safely defused the IED.
Recovered from the scene were a 81mm and an 60mm mortar shell, two batteries (dry cell), one roll electrical tape, and wires.
“I commend all the troops who successfully foiled another terror attack that might have killed innocent civilians. I remind every unit and every soldier, airman, sailor, and marine not to let our guards down against terrorists," Galvez said.
“We will continue to intensify our checkpoints and our operations against all these groups that pose a threat to our communities. I call on every individual to be vigilant and actively involved in reporting any suspicious person or activity in their localities. Only with that degree of vigilance of our people, combined with the unceasing efforts of government security forces can we as a nation stop these terrorists," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049711
No Palace intervention in military procurement
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): No Palace intervention in military procurement
The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday categorically denied allegations that Malacañang is meddling in the procurement of military equipment.
The allegations were raised by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV during the Senate hearing of the proposed 2019 budget of the DND and its attached agencies.
Trillanes said there are concerns that some military procurements were against the wishes of the major military services.
“Bypassed yung kanilang (of their) wish list or shopping list. There is a wish list pero iba ang binibili (but bought a different equipment), and these equipment are coming directly from Malacañang and you are being bypassed. Kaya nabibili ito (That's why they were bought) against you wishes,” the opposition senator said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana categorically belied the allegation, stressing that President Rodrigo Duterte has always urged them to buy what they needed.
“That (meddling) did not happen during my time. The Palace never dictated on us. In fact, the President has always reminded us to buy what the user wants. Laging sinasabi sa atin yan (We are always reminded of that), so that’s what we are doing,” he told the Subcommittee “E” of the Senate Finance Committee, chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson.
Trillanes said he received reports that there are equipment in the pipeline that two major services have not requested.
However, the heads of the three major military services – Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine Navy (PN) – said the procurement process within the military establishment precludes any intervention from higher authority.
“For the Airforce, we have no known projects that has been imposed upon us. It is always the product of a process through our senior leadership. So we are getting what we need and what we want,”PAF commanding general Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr. said.
Meanwhile, Major Gen. Robert Arevalo, the vice commander of the Philippine Army, said a stringent process is being followed within Army headquarters.
“Once it goes up to the DND, there is also a procedure and apparently the proceedings are very transparent. Whatever our request or wish, it is decided upon by the august body within the senior leaders’ roundtable discussion,” Arevalo said.
For the Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the requirements of the service is decided by a technical working group created by the Navy itself.
“This is submitted to the senior leaders of the AFP as well as the senior leaders of the DND. So there are no influence coming from the higher ups,” Empedrad said.
Lorenzana said he has received such information on the supposed procurement of equipment not on the “wish list” of the major services.
However, the defense secretary pointed to Trillanes as the source of the information.
“We’ve heard that information but I think it also came from you, that there was one guy who is cornering or directing the procurement of certain items,” he told Trillanes.
“I asked around and it’s not true. Nobody is manipulating the procurement at the DND because the procurement there is a collegial decision by me and the service commanders and the senior leaders,” Lorenzana said.
He added that they have what they call as the “senior leaders’ defense position system” that meets twice a month to decide what will be procured.
It is during these meetings that all the products being considered are presented, after which the collegial body will decide what to buy.
“It is not dictated by anybody,” Lorenzana said.
Trillanes maintained that his information came from supposed active officers and there were allegations that an Undersecretary from the DND is involved.
Lorenzana again debunked the claims, saying the minutes of the twice a month senior leaders’ meeting to decide the modernization procurement will prove that this could not have happened.
“We can show you the minutes -- how it is done, we discuss, very passionate discussions sometimes to buy something, and we come to a decision,” he said.
“Nobody comes and goes to the services to force the procurement of certain items that they do not want. That did not happen senator,” Lorenzana said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049766
The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday categorically denied allegations that Malacañang is meddling in the procurement of military equipment.
The allegations were raised by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV during the Senate hearing of the proposed 2019 budget of the DND and its attached agencies.
Trillanes said there are concerns that some military procurements were against the wishes of the major military services.
“Bypassed yung kanilang (of their) wish list or shopping list. There is a wish list pero iba ang binibili (but bought a different equipment), and these equipment are coming directly from Malacañang and you are being bypassed. Kaya nabibili ito (That's why they were bought) against you wishes,” the opposition senator said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana categorically belied the allegation, stressing that President Rodrigo Duterte has always urged them to buy what they needed.
“That (meddling) did not happen during my time. The Palace never dictated on us. In fact, the President has always reminded us to buy what the user wants. Laging sinasabi sa atin yan (We are always reminded of that), so that’s what we are doing,” he told the Subcommittee “E” of the Senate Finance Committee, chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson.
Trillanes said he received reports that there are equipment in the pipeline that two major services have not requested.
However, the heads of the three major military services – Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine Navy (PN) – said the procurement process within the military establishment precludes any intervention from higher authority.
“For the Airforce, we have no known projects that has been imposed upon us. It is always the product of a process through our senior leadership. So we are getting what we need and what we want,”PAF commanding general Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr. said.
Meanwhile, Major Gen. Robert Arevalo, the vice commander of the Philippine Army, said a stringent process is being followed within Army headquarters.
“Once it goes up to the DND, there is also a procedure and apparently the proceedings are very transparent. Whatever our request or wish, it is decided upon by the august body within the senior leaders’ roundtable discussion,” Arevalo said.
For the Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the requirements of the service is decided by a technical working group created by the Navy itself.
“This is submitted to the senior leaders of the AFP as well as the senior leaders of the DND. So there are no influence coming from the higher ups,” Empedrad said.
Lorenzana said he has received such information on the supposed procurement of equipment not on the “wish list” of the major services.
However, the defense secretary pointed to Trillanes as the source of the information.
“We’ve heard that information but I think it also came from you, that there was one guy who is cornering or directing the procurement of certain items,” he told Trillanes.
“I asked around and it’s not true. Nobody is manipulating the procurement at the DND because the procurement there is a collegial decision by me and the service commanders and the senior leaders,” Lorenzana said.
He added that they have what they call as the “senior leaders’ defense position system” that meets twice a month to decide what will be procured.
It is during these meetings that all the products being considered are presented, after which the collegial body will decide what to buy.
“It is not dictated by anybody,” Lorenzana said.
Trillanes maintained that his information came from supposed active officers and there were allegations that an Undersecretary from the DND is involved.
Lorenzana again debunked the claims, saying the minutes of the twice a month senior leaders’ meeting to decide the modernization procurement will prove that this could not have happened.
“We can show you the minutes -- how it is done, we discuss, very passionate discussions sometimes to buy something, and we come to a decision,” he said.
“Nobody comes and goes to the services to force the procurement of certain items that they do not want. That did not happen senator,” Lorenzana said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049766
No inconsistency in PRRD’s, AFP’s remarks on ouster plot
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): No inconsistency in PRRD’s, AFP’s remarks on ouster plot
There is “no inconsistency” in the statements made by President Rodrigo R. Duterte and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Carlito Galvez Jr. concerning the alleged "Red October" plot to unseat the Chief Executive, Malacañang said on Tuesday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after Galvez, in a Senate hearing, denied that Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and other members of the Magdalo Group and the Liberal Party may be in collusion with communist rebels to oust the President.
Roque said while the Liberal Party, as a whole, might not have any formal agreements with communist rebels, individual members might still be in collusion with them.
“No inconsistency. I’m sure individual members of the Liberal Party, as the President said, may be in collusion with the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army),” Roque said in a Palace briefing.
“It could be true that there is no formal Memorandum of Agreement between the party itself and the CPP-NPA; it does not prevent leading personalities with the Liberal Party from having such collusion,” he added.
Roque said Trillanes himself has repeatedly called for the ouster of the President.
“We are convinced that some members of the LP party, Liberal Party are in collusion with the CPP-NPA. Now, Trillanes has made no secret that he wants to oust President Duterte and I think his language speaks for itself,” Roque said.
Roque also reiterated that ouster plots will fail since the President remains supported by both the military and Filipinos.
“The President remains supported by the people – 8 out of 10 po ang suporta sa (support the) war on drugs. We don’t recognize any viable threat against the administration dahil solid nga po ang suporta ng taumbayan kay Presidente (because people have solid support for the President),” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049784
There is “no inconsistency” in the statements made by President Rodrigo R. Duterte and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Carlito Galvez Jr. concerning the alleged "Red October" plot to unseat the Chief Executive, Malacañang said on Tuesday.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after Galvez, in a Senate hearing, denied that Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and other members of the Magdalo Group and the Liberal Party may be in collusion with communist rebels to oust the President.
Roque said while the Liberal Party, as a whole, might not have any formal agreements with communist rebels, individual members might still be in collusion with them.
“No inconsistency. I’m sure individual members of the Liberal Party, as the President said, may be in collusion with the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army),” Roque said in a Palace briefing.
“It could be true that there is no formal Memorandum of Agreement between the party itself and the CPP-NPA; it does not prevent leading personalities with the Liberal Party from having such collusion,” he added.
Roque said Trillanes himself has repeatedly called for the ouster of the President.
“We are convinced that some members of the LP party, Liberal Party are in collusion with the CPP-NPA. Now, Trillanes has made no secret that he wants to oust President Duterte and I think his language speaks for itself,” Roque said.
Roque also reiterated that ouster plots will fail since the President remains supported by both the military and Filipinos.
“The President remains supported by the people – 8 out of 10 po ang suporta sa (support the) war on drugs. We don’t recognize any viable threat against the administration dahil solid nga po ang suporta ng taumbayan kay Presidente (because people have solid support for the President),” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049784
Palace sees WPS joint exploration as 'answer' to soaring oil prices
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): Palace sees WPS joint exploration as 'answer' to soaring oil prices
As the world crude prices hit above USD80 per barrel, Malacañang on Tuesday expressed hope that the joint exploration deal for oil and gas reserves in the disputed West Philippine Sea will be finally signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit in Manila next month.
“We’re doing all we can to make sure that when President Xi comes here, we can sign the joint exploration na magsimula na tayo na maghanap ng natural gas at langis at sa ganun po magkaroon na tayo ng energy security (that we should start searching for natural gas and oil so that we can have energy security),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace press briefing.
Last August, the Department of Budget and Management announced that Xi is set to visit the Philippines in November as a follow-up to the high-level economic meetings conducted by the two countries’ economic and infrastructure managers in Beijing.
Roque described the joint exploration as the most important agreement that the Philippines and China are hoping to achieve during Xi’s visit, to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel products.
“Of course, (ito) ang pinakaimportanteng agreement dahil nga sa pagtaas ng preso ng langis na nagdadahilan sa pagtaas ng lahat (Of course, it’s the most important agreement because of the high prices of oil which triggered the increase of prices of everything),” Roque said.
“Alam naman po (natin na) lahat tayo naaapektuhan dyan pero hanggang makakuha po tayo ng langis ay talagang wala tayo magawa dahil iniaangkat natin ang langis (You know all of us are affected but unless we get oil, we can really do nothing because we import oil),” he added.
Roque said initial research and studies show that oil and gas reserves can be found in the disputed WPS particularly in the so-called Service Contract 72 (Recto Bank).
“So ito po ang naging malinaw: kinakailangan na po nating isulong ang joint exploration. Isantabi natin ang hidwaan dahil according to the preliminary studies, meron pong laman ang SC 72 (So it becomes clear, we need to push the joint exploration, set aside conflict because according to the preliminary studies, the SC 72 has oil and gas reserves),” he said.
Roque said an executive agreement for joint exploration in the WPS is crucial since the supply of Malampaya deepwater gas-to-power project is projected to last only until 2029.
“So we’re hoping that by 2027, production there at SC 72 will already start,” he said.
China has reportedly expressed willingness to enter into a 60-40 joint exploration deal in favor of the Philippines.
Aside from Recto Bank, Service Contract 57 or Calamian is also being considered as areas of possible joint exploration.
Meanwhile, Roque assured that the government has been doing its best to bring down the prices of basic commodities.
“So ang assurance natin, pagdating at least sa pagkain, eh sinisiguro natin na lahat ay ginagawa para mapababa dahil wala talaga tayong solusyon sa pagtaas ng presyo po ng krudo at gasolina sa pandaigdigang merkado (Our assurance is we’re doing everything to bring down prices, at least of food, because we have no really solution to the high prices of crude and gasoline in the world market),” he said.
He said the government has implemented several measures including importation of more rice as well as chicken and pork to bring down the prices of food.
Roque said if the crude prices in the world market will stay above USD80 per barrel for three months in a row, the excise taxes on fuel might be suspended under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049801
As the world crude prices hit above USD80 per barrel, Malacañang on Tuesday expressed hope that the joint exploration deal for oil and gas reserves in the disputed West Philippine Sea will be finally signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit in Manila next month.
“We’re doing all we can to make sure that when President Xi comes here, we can sign the joint exploration na magsimula na tayo na maghanap ng natural gas at langis at sa ganun po magkaroon na tayo ng energy security (that we should start searching for natural gas and oil so that we can have energy security),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace press briefing.
Last August, the Department of Budget and Management announced that Xi is set to visit the Philippines in November as a follow-up to the high-level economic meetings conducted by the two countries’ economic and infrastructure managers in Beijing.
Roque described the joint exploration as the most important agreement that the Philippines and China are hoping to achieve during Xi’s visit, to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel products.
“Of course, (ito) ang pinakaimportanteng agreement dahil nga sa pagtaas ng preso ng langis na nagdadahilan sa pagtaas ng lahat (Of course, it’s the most important agreement because of the high prices of oil which triggered the increase of prices of everything),” Roque said.
“Alam naman po (natin na) lahat tayo naaapektuhan dyan pero hanggang makakuha po tayo ng langis ay talagang wala tayo magawa dahil iniaangkat natin ang langis (You know all of us are affected but unless we get oil, we can really do nothing because we import oil),” he added.
Roque said initial research and studies show that oil and gas reserves can be found in the disputed WPS particularly in the so-called Service Contract 72 (Recto Bank).
“So ito po ang naging malinaw: kinakailangan na po nating isulong ang joint exploration. Isantabi natin ang hidwaan dahil according to the preliminary studies, meron pong laman ang SC 72 (So it becomes clear, we need to push the joint exploration, set aside conflict because according to the preliminary studies, the SC 72 has oil and gas reserves),” he said.
Roque said an executive agreement for joint exploration in the WPS is crucial since the supply of Malampaya deepwater gas-to-power project is projected to last only until 2029.
“So we’re hoping that by 2027, production there at SC 72 will already start,” he said.
China has reportedly expressed willingness to enter into a 60-40 joint exploration deal in favor of the Philippines.
Aside from Recto Bank, Service Contract 57 or Calamian is also being considered as areas of possible joint exploration.
Meanwhile, Roque assured that the government has been doing its best to bring down the prices of basic commodities.
“So ang assurance natin, pagdating at least sa pagkain, eh sinisiguro natin na lahat ay ginagawa para mapababa dahil wala talaga tayong solusyon sa pagtaas ng presyo po ng krudo at gasolina sa pandaigdigang merkado (Our assurance is we’re doing everything to bring down prices, at least of food, because we have no really solution to the high prices of crude and gasoline in the world market),” he said.
He said the government has implemented several measures including importation of more rice as well as chicken and pork to bring down the prices of food.
Roque said if the crude prices in the world market will stay above USD80 per barrel for three months in a row, the excise taxes on fuel might be suspended under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049801
DND, AFP can't find Trillanes’ amnesty application
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): DND, AFP can't find Trillanes’ amnesty application
The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday revealed that their respective internal investigation on the supposedly missing amnesty application of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has turned up nothing.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana bared the results of the DND inquiry after Trillanes prodded him during a Senate hearing over his missing amnesty application.
“Gusto ko lang sir malaman, kasi alam nyo na naman sir ‘yung totoo e. Nag apply ba ako sir ng (I just want to know, because you know the truth. Did I apply for) amnesty as far as your investigation is concerned sir?” Trillanes asked.
Lorenzana first clarified that he was not knowledgeable about the senator’s application as it happened before his time.
He added that last August 16, he received a call from Solicitor General Jose Calida asking him if they could help produce the amnesty records.
“He was not asking for your amnesty application, simply the amnesty records of Trillanes et al,” Lorenzana said.
He said he referred Calida’s staff to his staff and their initial foray turned up nothing.
“But when they dug up the records at DND, they were able to produce Proclamation No. 75 issued by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III, as well as the amnesty document that was signed by then-Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin,” Lorenzana said.
The Defense chief said those were the only documents given by the DND to Calida.
“Later on, he wrote General Headquarters (GHQ) to ask for some other records like your amnesty application, which one staff of J1 (personnel directorate) certified that your amnesty application could not be found or ‘non-existent’ at the GHQ,” Lorenzana told Trillanes.
“Those are the three documents that SolGen Calida got from DND and GHQ,” he added.
When Trillanes asked if the DND has conducted its own internal investigation to ascertain if he really applied for amnesty, Lorenzana answered in the positive.
“We did, we did senator. And in fact, we dug up, wala namang makita (we couldn’t find any),” he said.
“So we reached out to the members of the ad hoc committee on amnesty, and wala pa silang sagot eh (they have yet to reply). They are not forthcoming sa mga sagot nila (in their answers). Anyway, we have invited them also at the DND HQ to shed light on this missing document,” Lorenzana said.
It was at this point that Senator Panfilo Lacson briefly reminded Trillanes that they may be veering away from the budget deliberation, which is the purpose of the hearing.
Lacson chairs Subcimittee "E" of the Senate Finance Committee hearing the DND budget deliberations.
He allowed Trillanes to continue but only for brief time.
Upon resumption, AFP Chief of Staff, Carlito Galvez Jr., told Trillanes that the general headquarters could not find any records of Trillanes’ amnesty application.
The AFP chief surmised that there could be some lapses committed in the handling of documents.
“Si Col. Josefa Berbigal is the one who administered your oath. Apparently, there are some lapses, na lahat ng (that all of the) documents hindi naibaba sa (not forwarded to) J1, which is basically the repository of all documents,” Galvez said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049800
The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday revealed that their respective internal investigation on the supposedly missing amnesty application of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has turned up nothing.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana bared the results of the DND inquiry after Trillanes prodded him during a Senate hearing over his missing amnesty application.
“Gusto ko lang sir malaman, kasi alam nyo na naman sir ‘yung totoo e. Nag apply ba ako sir ng (I just want to know, because you know the truth. Did I apply for) amnesty as far as your investigation is concerned sir?” Trillanes asked.
Lorenzana first clarified that he was not knowledgeable about the senator’s application as it happened before his time.
He added that last August 16, he received a call from Solicitor General Jose Calida asking him if they could help produce the amnesty records.
“He was not asking for your amnesty application, simply the amnesty records of Trillanes et al,” Lorenzana said.
He said he referred Calida’s staff to his staff and their initial foray turned up nothing.
“But when they dug up the records at DND, they were able to produce Proclamation No. 75 issued by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III, as well as the amnesty document that was signed by then-Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin,” Lorenzana said.
The Defense chief said those were the only documents given by the DND to Calida.
“Later on, he wrote General Headquarters (GHQ) to ask for some other records like your amnesty application, which one staff of J1 (personnel directorate) certified that your amnesty application could not be found or ‘non-existent’ at the GHQ,” Lorenzana told Trillanes.
“Those are the three documents that SolGen Calida got from DND and GHQ,” he added.
When Trillanes asked if the DND has conducted its own internal investigation to ascertain if he really applied for amnesty, Lorenzana answered in the positive.
“We did, we did senator. And in fact, we dug up, wala namang makita (we couldn’t find any),” he said.
“So we reached out to the members of the ad hoc committee on amnesty, and wala pa silang sagot eh (they have yet to reply). They are not forthcoming sa mga sagot nila (in their answers). Anyway, we have invited them also at the DND HQ to shed light on this missing document,” Lorenzana said.
It was at this point that Senator Panfilo Lacson briefly reminded Trillanes that they may be veering away from the budget deliberation, which is the purpose of the hearing.
Lacson chairs Subcimittee "E" of the Senate Finance Committee hearing the DND budget deliberations.
He allowed Trillanes to continue but only for brief time.
Upon resumption, AFP Chief of Staff, Carlito Galvez Jr., told Trillanes that the general headquarters could not find any records of Trillanes’ amnesty application.
The AFP chief surmised that there could be some lapses committed in the handling of documents.
“Si Col. Josefa Berbigal is the one who administered your oath. Apparently, there are some lapses, na lahat ng (that all of the) documents hindi naibaba sa (not forwarded to) J1, which is basically the repository of all documents,” Galvez said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049800
'I have your backs,' Duterte tells soldiers, cops
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): 'I have your backs,' Duterte tells soldiers, cops
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday reiterated his promise to take care of his soldiers and policemen as he commended them for their efforts in protecting the Filipino people.
“As I have promised before to all our soldiers and policemen who risk their lives for our country and democracy: I have your backs,” Duterte said in his speech during visit to the 803rd Infantry Brigade of Philippine Army at Camp Juan Sumuroy, Catarman, Northern Samar.
Duterte assured that he will not abandon the families of the soldiers who lost their lives while serving the country.
“Just work well. Be cunning. Be smart. And do not be afraid of problems. Ako ang bahala hanggang ako pa ang nakaupo dito sa --- diyan sa Pasig --- hindi ko kayo pababayaan (I will take care of you while I’m your President. I will not abandon you) You will never have any worry at all. Inyo trabaho lang (You just do your job),” he said.
“This administration will take care of you and your families by providing you with the necessary social and financial assistance,” he added.
Duterte said his administration is working to strengthen the defense capabilities of the military and police.
“For your brigade, we have provided additional transport vehicles and extended fund support for the enhancement of the roads in the camp, the administration building, and the 8th ID Liaison Office building,” he said.
He also promised that all of the soldiers will have a sidearm "in due time”.
“Now the reason why I decided to give each and everyone of you. costing billions, is because you go out of your house or your camp almost naked,” Duterte said.
He also commended the Army’s 803rd Brigade for maintaining law and order and protecting the people against enemies of the State particularly from communist rebels.
“Today we recognize the brigade’s accomplishments against the communist terrorists and their contributions in the campaign against illegal drugs. You have indeed served the country well with your recent achievements. Saludo ako sa inyo (I salute to you),” he added.
Duterte said he is elated by the apprehension and surrender of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from January to September this year.
“I am pleased to know that you have neutralized and apprehended numerous enemies of the state,” Duterte said.
He also reiterated his administration’s call for the communist terrorists to abandon their extremist activities and return to the fold of the law.
“In fact, today, some of them will receive financial assistance under our Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program. This is just one of the several programs to help them on their re-integration into our communities,” Duterte said.
The President said his war against drugs and terrorism will continue despite criticisms from the opposition and other rights groups.
“Terrorism and illegal drug trade continue to threaten the peace and stability of our nation, thereby affecting our economy and even the moral fiber of our society,” he said.
“This administration and the entire Filipino nation rely on the heroic dedication of our soldiers and policemen to ensure that the nation and its interests are secured. Together, let us work hard in ensuring that our people will have the peaceful and prosperous future they richly deserve,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049811
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday reiterated his promise to take care of his soldiers and policemen as he commended them for their efforts in protecting the Filipino people.
“As I have promised before to all our soldiers and policemen who risk their lives for our country and democracy: I have your backs,” Duterte said in his speech during visit to the 803rd Infantry Brigade of Philippine Army at Camp Juan Sumuroy, Catarman, Northern Samar.
Duterte assured that he will not abandon the families of the soldiers who lost their lives while serving the country.
“Just work well. Be cunning. Be smart. And do not be afraid of problems. Ako ang bahala hanggang ako pa ang nakaupo dito sa --- diyan sa Pasig --- hindi ko kayo pababayaan (I will take care of you while I’m your President. I will not abandon you) You will never have any worry at all. Inyo trabaho lang (You just do your job),” he said.
“This administration will take care of you and your families by providing you with the necessary social and financial assistance,” he added.
Duterte said his administration is working to strengthen the defense capabilities of the military and police.
“For your brigade, we have provided additional transport vehicles and extended fund support for the enhancement of the roads in the camp, the administration building, and the 8th ID Liaison Office building,” he said.
He also promised that all of the soldiers will have a sidearm "in due time”.
“Now the reason why I decided to give each and everyone of you. costing billions, is because you go out of your house or your camp almost naked,” Duterte said.
He also commended the Army’s 803rd Brigade for maintaining law and order and protecting the people against enemies of the State particularly from communist rebels.
“Today we recognize the brigade’s accomplishments against the communist terrorists and their contributions in the campaign against illegal drugs. You have indeed served the country well with your recent achievements. Saludo ako sa inyo (I salute to you),” he added.
Duterte said he is elated by the apprehension and surrender of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from January to September this year.
“I am pleased to know that you have neutralized and apprehended numerous enemies of the state,” Duterte said.
He also reiterated his administration’s call for the communist terrorists to abandon their extremist activities and return to the fold of the law.
“In fact, today, some of them will receive financial assistance under our Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program. This is just one of the several programs to help them on their re-integration into our communities,” Duterte said.
The President said his war against drugs and terrorism will continue despite criticisms from the opposition and other rights groups.
“Terrorism and illegal drug trade continue to threaten the peace and stability of our nation, thereby affecting our economy and even the moral fiber of our society,” he said.
“This administration and the entire Filipino nation rely on the heroic dedication of our soldiers and policemen to ensure that the nation and its interests are secured. Together, let us work hard in ensuring that our people will have the peaceful and prosperous future they richly deserve,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049811
'Red October' aims to push PRRD to declare nationwide martial law
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 2): 'Red October' aims to push PRRD to declare nationwide martial law
The “Red October” plot is meant to force President Rodrigo Duterte to declare a nationwide martial law, signing his own political death warrant, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Tuesday.
“The way we see it, the President is being dragged to declare a nationwide martial law, and also most probably a revolutionary government. That is the plan of the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army), to lead the president to a political death trap,” said AFP Chief of Staff, General Carlito Galvez Jr., during the Senate hearing on the proposed 2019 budget of the Department of National Defense and its attached agencies.
Galvez said part of the communist plot to oust Duterte is to undertake a series of mobilization to heighten up agitation in the student and labor sectors including the indigenous people.
He said the plan is to have successive mass mobilizations starting on September 21 up to December when the CPP-NPA celebrates its 50th anniversary.
“It is a broad coalition plot wherein they will use existing issues like inflation and prices, and also depicting a government that will resort to dictatorship and tyranny,” he said.
“In fact, they have already organized 10 of the universities in Manila and right now they are making a lot of information drive wherein they will show to all the high school and college students the atrocities committed during the Marcos regime and equate that to the present administration,” the AFP chief told the Subcommittee “E” of the Senate Finance Committee.
The sub-panel is chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson.
Galvez said the CPP-NPA has already hatched “Operation Talsik” and “Operation Aklasan”, wherein they will simultaneously conduct labor protests as well as tactical offensives in the countryside.
He said “Oplan Aklasan” was unearthed by the AFP with the publication of the constitution of the CCP-NPA in 2016.
“It is a very elaborate plan wherein they stated the heightening of the education sector using the First Quarter Storm model,” he said.
“Actually, Joma Sison has conducted a lot of conferences with UP. We have documents, and we are ready to reveal them in executive session so that we can see the vast efforts of the CPP-NPA in order to oust Duterte,” Galvez said.
Meanwhile, he added that the AFP publicized the said plot to preempt the mass recruitment, especially the youth, and the economic sabotage that will be undertaken under “Oplan Aklasan”.
“They planned extensively on this and they will do their best to really oust the President. If we take this lightly, we might be like Marawi,” Galvez said.
Trillanes, Pangilinan cleared from 'Red October’
Galvez cleared opposition Senators Antonio Trillanes and Francis Pangilinan from the ouster plot.
During the hearing, Trillanes categorically asked the AFP chief if he and Pangilinan were involved in "Red October".
“Basically this is a sinister plot of the CCP-NPA. Kung makikita po natin talaga (If we can examine this), they would like to have a coalition with the opposition. That’s why our intention is really to protect yung ating (our) legitimate opposition,” Galvez said.
“But based, Sir, on intel report Sir, while the CPP would like to forge a coalition, naki-pag coalition po ba kami sir? (did we forge a coalition sir?),” Trillanes said.
“No sir,” Galvez answered.
Trillanes added that his group, Magdalo, would not forge a coalition with the communists.
Trillanes said they were trying to exert their influence within the legitimate opposition to “steer clear of these communists.”
“For as long as they (CPP) are killing our soldiers, talagang magiging tubig at langis ito (it will really turn into water and oil). Hindi talagang pwedeng paghaluin ito (It's really not meant to be mixed together),” Trillanes said.
On the other hand, Pangilinan said while the communists desire to forge a coalition with the opposition, the Liberal Party (LP) has no desire to oust Duterte.
“I will categorically state that there is no desire on the part of the Liberal Party to oust President Duterte. We will not support any unconstitutional move or approach. In fact, if you have any information on any member of the party involved, just tell us and we will expel this member because it is in violation of our Constitution,” he said.
“We swore an oath to uphold and defend this Constitution, and any unconstitutional act, we will not be party to, and we will oppose,” Pangilinan added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049750
The “Red October” plot is meant to force President Rodrigo Duterte to declare a nationwide martial law, signing his own political death warrant, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Tuesday.
“The way we see it, the President is being dragged to declare a nationwide martial law, and also most probably a revolutionary government. That is the plan of the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army), to lead the president to a political death trap,” said AFP Chief of Staff, General Carlito Galvez Jr., during the Senate hearing on the proposed 2019 budget of the Department of National Defense and its attached agencies.
Galvez said part of the communist plot to oust Duterte is to undertake a series of mobilization to heighten up agitation in the student and labor sectors including the indigenous people.
He said the plan is to have successive mass mobilizations starting on September 21 up to December when the CPP-NPA celebrates its 50th anniversary.
“It is a broad coalition plot wherein they will use existing issues like inflation and prices, and also depicting a government that will resort to dictatorship and tyranny,” he said.
“In fact, they have already organized 10 of the universities in Manila and right now they are making a lot of information drive wherein they will show to all the high school and college students the atrocities committed during the Marcos regime and equate that to the present administration,” the AFP chief told the Subcommittee “E” of the Senate Finance Committee.
The sub-panel is chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson.
Galvez said the CPP-NPA has already hatched “Operation Talsik” and “Operation Aklasan”, wherein they will simultaneously conduct labor protests as well as tactical offensives in the countryside.
He said “Oplan Aklasan” was unearthed by the AFP with the publication of the constitution of the CCP-NPA in 2016.
“It is a very elaborate plan wherein they stated the heightening of the education sector using the First Quarter Storm model,” he said.
“Actually, Joma Sison has conducted a lot of conferences with UP. We have documents, and we are ready to reveal them in executive session so that we can see the vast efforts of the CPP-NPA in order to oust Duterte,” Galvez said.
Meanwhile, he added that the AFP publicized the said plot to preempt the mass recruitment, especially the youth, and the economic sabotage that will be undertaken under “Oplan Aklasan”.
“They planned extensively on this and they will do their best to really oust the President. If we take this lightly, we might be like Marawi,” Galvez said.
Trillanes, Pangilinan cleared from 'Red October’
Galvez cleared opposition Senators Antonio Trillanes and Francis Pangilinan from the ouster plot.
During the hearing, Trillanes categorically asked the AFP chief if he and Pangilinan were involved in "Red October".
“Basically this is a sinister plot of the CCP-NPA. Kung makikita po natin talaga (If we can examine this), they would like to have a coalition with the opposition. That’s why our intention is really to protect yung ating (our) legitimate opposition,” Galvez said.
“But based, Sir, on intel report Sir, while the CPP would like to forge a coalition, naki-pag coalition po ba kami sir? (did we forge a coalition sir?),” Trillanes said.
“No sir,” Galvez answered.
Trillanes added that his group, Magdalo, would not forge a coalition with the communists.
Trillanes said they were trying to exert their influence within the legitimate opposition to “steer clear of these communists.”
“For as long as they (CPP) are killing our soldiers, talagang magiging tubig at langis ito (it will really turn into water and oil). Hindi talagang pwedeng paghaluin ito (It's really not meant to be mixed together),” Trillanes said.
On the other hand, Pangilinan said while the communists desire to forge a coalition with the opposition, the Liberal Party (LP) has no desire to oust Duterte.
“I will categorically state that there is no desire on the part of the Liberal Party to oust President Duterte. We will not support any unconstitutional move or approach. In fact, if you have any information on any member of the party involved, just tell us and we will expel this member because it is in violation of our Constitution,” he said.
“We swore an oath to uphold and defend this Constitution, and any unconstitutional act, we will not be party to, and we will oppose,” Pangilinan added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1049750
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