From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): 8 Sayyaf bandits yield amid military offensives in Sulu
Eight Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits have surrendered to military authorities over the weekend as tactical offensives continue against the group in the province of Sulu, military officials said.
Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said one of the eight surrendered around 2 p.m. Saturday to the Army’s 1101st Infantry Brigade.
Pabayo said the ASG surrenderer, Misal Abdulwahid, 33, turned over an M-16 Armalite rifle to Col. Antonio Nafarete, 1101st Infantry Brigade commander.
Abdulwahid is a follower of ASG sub-leader Idang Susukan, the Army official said.
The seven other ASG members who surrendered on Sunday, also to Nafarete, were identified as Araham Abdul, Delson Abdul, Jenyor Daihan Madjid, Wilson Tatting Asid, Jasim Uppih Umair, Nurhajir Amirol Patta, and Adsjar Hassan Sabdani.
Pabayo said the seven surrenderers were former followers of ASG sub-leaders Alhabsy Misaya, Sibih Pisih, and Apoh Mike. They turned over five Garand rifles, one M-16 Armalite rifle, and a .45-caliber pistol.
Pabayo said the surrender came amid operations being conducted by troops to pursue the ASG in Sulu.
The ASG surrenderers were brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Hospital in Barangay Bus-bus, Jolo, for medical checkup. They will undergo a custodial debriefing to be facilitated by the Joint Task Force Sulu, military officials said.
Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command chief, vowed that the troops will continue their offensives against Abu Sayyaf bandits, aimed at neutralizing the terrorist group and rescuing the remaining captives.
The ASG bandits are still holding captives close to 10 people, including foreigners.
“With our sustained offensives, we anticipate that more Abu Sayyaf bandits will heed the clamor for them to give up, rebuild their hopes, and work for peace with every Suluanons,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066166
Monday, April 1, 2019
Village exec survives ambush in North Cotabato
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Village exec survives ambush in North Cotabato
Police have launched a manhunt against two men onboard a motorbike who ambushed and wounded a village official from Cotabato City on Saturday evening in Makilala, North Cotabato.
“Investigators from the Makilala and Cotabato City police offices are closely coordinating to unmask the gunmen who tried to kill a village chair of Cotabato City at about 6 p.m. Saturday,” Col. Maximo Layugan, North Cotabato provincial police director, told reporters here Monday.
Layugan identified the target of the attack as Datu Bimbo Ayunan, chief of Barangay Mother Kalanganan in Cotabato City.
The 37-year-old village official was driving his Ford pick-up vehicle with his wife heading to Davao City when unidentified gunmen aboard a motorbike opened fire.
Ayunan sustained a gunshot wound on his stomach and is now recuperating in a hospital, police said. His wife escaped unharmed.
Police recovered empty shells for .45-caliber pistol from the site of the ambush.
Layugan said the motive for the ambush remains unknown as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066135
Police have launched a manhunt against two men onboard a motorbike who ambushed and wounded a village official from Cotabato City on Saturday evening in Makilala, North Cotabato.
“Investigators from the Makilala and Cotabato City police offices are closely coordinating to unmask the gunmen who tried to kill a village chair of Cotabato City at about 6 p.m. Saturday,” Col. Maximo Layugan, North Cotabato provincial police director, told reporters here Monday.
Layugan identified the target of the attack as Datu Bimbo Ayunan, chief of Barangay Mother Kalanganan in Cotabato City.
The 37-year-old village official was driving his Ford pick-up vehicle with his wife heading to Davao City when unidentified gunmen aboard a motorbike opened fire.
Ayunan sustained a gunshot wound on his stomach and is now recuperating in a hospital, police said. His wife escaped unharmed.
Police recovered empty shells for .45-caliber pistol from the site of the ambush.
Layugan said the motive for the ambush remains unknown as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066135
27 NPAs, supporters yield with 13 firearms in Sagay City
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): 27 NPAs, supporters yield with 13 firearms in Sagay City
SURRENDERED FIREARMS. Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan (right), commanding officer of the Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB), receives the firearms surrendered by former Yunit Militia members in a ceremony held at their headquarters in Sagay City on Sunday (March 31, 2019). The Yunit Militia is the local armed component of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army. (Photo courtesy of 79IB, Philippine Army)
A total of 27 insurgents and supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) from Barangay Paitan in Escalante City, Negros Occidental surrendered to the military and police authorities on Sunday.
The group that included 17 members of Yunit Militia and 10 rebel sympathizers, yielded 13 firearms in a ceremony held at the headquarters of the 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) in Barangay Bato, Sagay City.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, commanding officer of the 79IB, said the surrender was a result of localized peace talks initiated by government forces in insurgency-affected areas of northern Negros.
“The most significant of the Yunit Militia's turnout is the role of barangay officials who influenced them to be on the government side and urged them to surrender. We will continue to implement peace talks and negotiations together with the local officials as a way to address the insurgency problem,” Logan added.
The 27 surrenderers turned over their firearms to the officials of the Army’s 79IB and the Philippine National Police’s 6th Special Action Battalion (SAB)-Special Action Force (SAF) and 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company (NOCPMFC).
The weapons included a KG 9 automatic pistol with 12 pieces of ammunition, a .22-caliber magnum revolver, eight .38-caliber revolvers with 12 live bullets, and three .357-caliber revolvers.
According to the military, the Yunit Militia is the local armed component of the CPP-NPA and its political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF), utilized as immediate reinforcement in conducting tactical offensives. Equipped with low-powered firearms, its members are also tasked to monitor the movements and activities of the government forces.
During the ceremony, the former rebels pledged loyalty to the government through an oath of allegiance before Provincial Director Carmelo Orbista of the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Negros Occidental.
Officers of their newly-organized association, Masaligan Farmers Association sa Barangay Paitan, were sworn in by village chief Richardy Pios.
Lt. Col. Mario Baquiran, commander of 1st NOCPMFC, told the former rebels and supporters that the government forces appreciate their surrender and cooperation.
“Your realization of just being used and fooled by the communist organizers and recruiters and your decision to be on the side of the government is the key to achieve lasting peace and development,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Elena Serenias conducted a profiling of the surrenderers before they could avail of benefits from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
A total of 27 insurgents and supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) from Barangay Paitan in Escalante City, Negros Occidental surrendered to the military and police authorities on Sunday.
The group that included 17 members of Yunit Militia and 10 rebel sympathizers, yielded 13 firearms in a ceremony held at the headquarters of the 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) in Barangay Bato, Sagay City.
Lt. Col. Emelito Thaddeus Logan, commanding officer of the 79IB, said the surrender was a result of localized peace talks initiated by government forces in insurgency-affected areas of northern Negros.
“The most significant of the Yunit Militia's turnout is the role of barangay officials who influenced them to be on the government side and urged them to surrender. We will continue to implement peace talks and negotiations together with the local officials as a way to address the insurgency problem,” Logan added.
The 27 surrenderers turned over their firearms to the officials of the Army’s 79IB and the Philippine National Police’s 6th Special Action Battalion (SAB)-Special Action Force (SAF) and 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company (NOCPMFC).
The weapons included a KG 9 automatic pistol with 12 pieces of ammunition, a .22-caliber magnum revolver, eight .38-caliber revolvers with 12 live bullets, and three .357-caliber revolvers.
According to the military, the Yunit Militia is the local armed component of the CPP-NPA and its political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF), utilized as immediate reinforcement in conducting tactical offensives. Equipped with low-powered firearms, its members are also tasked to monitor the movements and activities of the government forces.
During the ceremony, the former rebels pledged loyalty to the government through an oath of allegiance before Provincial Director Carmelo Orbista of the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Negros Occidental.
Officers of their newly-organized association, Masaligan Farmers Association sa Barangay Paitan, were sworn in by village chief Richardy Pios.
Lt. Col. Mario Baquiran, commander of 1st NOCPMFC, told the former rebels and supporters that the government forces appreciate their surrender and cooperation.
“Your realization of just being used and fooled by the communist organizers and recruiters and your decision to be on the side of the government is the key to achieve lasting peace and development,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Elena Serenias conducted a profiling of the surrenderers before they could avail of benefits from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Veterans 'living proof’ of patriotism
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Veterans 'living proof’ of patriotism
PNA photo by Connie Calipay
Major Gen. Fernando Trinidad, commanding officer of the Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID) in Bicol, urged the people here on Monday to always remember war veterans for their bravery and patriotism that motivated them to fight and liberate the Philippines from the hands of foreign invaders.
The region's highest Army officer gave the message during the commemoration of the 74th anniversary of the historic Albay Gulf Landing led by City Mayor Noel Rosal.
On the shore of Barangay Rawis in this city, Filipino-American forces engaged Japanese soldiers in a fierce gun battle and hand combat on April 1, 1945, defeating the enemies in the process.
"This activity is a tribute most especially for the heroism of our fellow Filipino soldiers and also our ally -- the US forces who offered the ultimate sacrifices for the freedom that we enjoy today. To our veterans, you are a living testament of courage, patriotism and selflessness. You symbolize hope to all of us and make us believe that as Filipinos, we can rise up to be the best when the moment requires us to do so," Trinidad said.
The 9ID commander also said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stands firm to its core purpose "which is serving the people and securing the land".
"With this, we will continue to fight and defend our country to preserve the freedom," he said.
Trinidad also appealed to the city government of Legazpi to continue supporting the troops in the continuous battle against lawless elements.
"The 9ID will serve and protect the Bicolanos by providing different programs which are responsive to the needs of our people," he said.
Trinidad said: "We become stronger when we are united. Let us seek peace and make it endure for the benefit of all."
Major Gen. Fernando Trinidad, commanding officer of the Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID) in Bicol, urged the people here on Monday to always remember war veterans for their bravery and patriotism that motivated them to fight and liberate the Philippines from the hands of foreign invaders.
The region's highest Army officer gave the message during the commemoration of the 74th anniversary of the historic Albay Gulf Landing led by City Mayor Noel Rosal.
On the shore of Barangay Rawis in this city, Filipino-American forces engaged Japanese soldiers in a fierce gun battle and hand combat on April 1, 1945, defeating the enemies in the process.
"This activity is a tribute most especially for the heroism of our fellow Filipino soldiers and also our ally -- the US forces who offered the ultimate sacrifices for the freedom that we enjoy today. To our veterans, you are a living testament of courage, patriotism and selflessness. You symbolize hope to all of us and make us believe that as Filipinos, we can rise up to be the best when the moment requires us to do so," Trinidad said.
The 9ID commander also said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stands firm to its core purpose "which is serving the people and securing the land".
"With this, we will continue to fight and defend our country to preserve the freedom," he said.
Trinidad also appealed to the city government of Legazpi to continue supporting the troops in the continuous battle against lawless elements.
"The 9ID will serve and protect the Bicolanos by providing different programs which are responsive to the needs of our people," he said.
Trinidad said: "We become stronger when we are united. Let us seek peace and make it endure for the benefit of all."
W. Visayas poll bets urged to report threats from NPA
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): W. Visayas poll bets urged to report threats from NPA
The Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 (Western Visayas) has urged political candidates in the May 13 elections to report any threats coming from the New People’s Army (NPA).
This, after Sanggunian Bayan Member Jolomar Hilario of Barangay Inolingan, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, was killed inside his home by persons who identified themselves as members of the rebel group.
A police report said that 50 armed NPAs on board a truck went to the victim’s residence while he was sleeping early Sunday morning.
Some of the rebels entered the house and peppered Hilario with bullets. He was brought to the Enrico Roa Elumba Clinic but was declared dead on arrival due to multiple gunshot wounds.
In a press conference on Monday, Brig. Gen. John Bulalacao, PRO-6 regional director, said they learned after the incident that the victim received threats from the rebels weeks prior to the attack.
“We had not received information about this (rebel threats to Hilario). The security personnel could have immediately reacted,” Bulalacao said.
“I am suggesting to them (poll bets) that in case they receive information or they receive threats from NPA, please bring the information to us immediately so that we can take immediate action,” he said.
He said there were some politicians and businessmen from Panay and Negros islands who reported threats made by the NPA and requested for police security.
Meanwhile, the PRO-6 will form a task group to fast-track the investigation in the killing of Hilario.
“Maybe, the NPA holds grudges against Hilario, or maybe, there are NPA-supported candidates that Hilario will vie against in the election,” Bulalacao said, adding that the PRO-6 hoped the crime would not fall as an election-related incident.
Hilario was an incumbent councilor of Moises Padilla town and seeking his reelection under the slate of Mayor Magdaleno Peña.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066190
This, after Sanggunian Bayan Member Jolomar Hilario of Barangay Inolingan, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, was killed inside his home by persons who identified themselves as members of the rebel group.
A police report said that 50 armed NPAs on board a truck went to the victim’s residence while he was sleeping early Sunday morning.
Some of the rebels entered the house and peppered Hilario with bullets. He was brought to the Enrico Roa Elumba Clinic but was declared dead on arrival due to multiple gunshot wounds.
In a press conference on Monday, Brig. Gen. John Bulalacao, PRO-6 regional director, said they learned after the incident that the victim received threats from the rebels weeks prior to the attack.
“We had not received information about this (rebel threats to Hilario). The security personnel could have immediately reacted,” Bulalacao said.
“I am suggesting to them (poll bets) that in case they receive information or they receive threats from NPA, please bring the information to us immediately so that we can take immediate action,” he said.
He said there were some politicians and businessmen from Panay and Negros islands who reported threats made by the NPA and requested for police security.
Meanwhile, the PRO-6 will form a task group to fast-track the investigation in the killing of Hilario.
“Maybe, the NPA holds grudges against Hilario, or maybe, there are NPA-supported candidates that Hilario will vie against in the election,” Bulalacao said, adding that the PRO-6 hoped the crime would not fall as an election-related incident.
Hilario was an incumbent councilor of Moises Padilla town and seeking his reelection under the slate of Mayor Magdaleno Peña.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066190
Pag-asa Island sightings don't equate to 600 Chinese vessels
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Pag-asa Island sightings don't equate to 600 Chinese vessels
Sightings do not automatically mean that there really 600 plus Chinese ships, of various sizes and types, off Pag-asa Island in any given time, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said Monday.
"I just talked with the WESCOM (Western Command) commander (Vice Admiral Rene Medina). 'Yung report na binanggit, nasa mgaaround 600 plus yun yung sinasabi na (The report said there are around 600 plus vessels) for the (first three months of 2019) year. But pag binilang mo yung, lahat na yun sa sightings, 'yung involved na mga vessels (if you count all of that sightings and the involved vessels), it's below that kasi yung sinabing sightings (the sightings that were mentioned), these are the same vessels that are sighted, siguro mga(maybe) around 200 plus, yung (the) 600 is sightings but 'yung involved na mga (the involved) vessels (are) basically the same vessels na paulit-ulit na sila yung nakikita (they are just the ones seen repetitively)," he added.
WESCOM is based in Puerto Princesa, Palawan and is responsible for securing the province and its vast maritime domains, including the Kalayaan Island Group.
Also, Madrigal said military patrols are regularly carried out together with the Philippine Coast Guard.
When asked if whether the AFP is recommending the filing of a protest on the matter, the AFP chief said that is the duty of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea.
"Ito'y tinitingnan naman natin yung (We are looking at it), we have coordination with (the) committee (National Task Force) 'yung West Philippine Sea committee na tumitingin naman dun (the one that oversees that)," he added.
Meanwhile, the Department of National Defense (DND) said it is continuously monitoring the presence of Chinese vessels and their activities off the waters of Pag-asa Island.
"The Department of National Defense, meanwhile, has been communicating reports of the above (matter) to the Department of Foreign Affairs for appropriate action. Just as the Philippines honors our international obligations and protocols, we also expect other countries and their vessels to do the same especially when sailing and fishing in international waters. This is necessary in order to avoid any misunderstanding and to reduce tensions between countries in the region," the DND said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the agency encouraged Filipino fishermen to continue their fishing activities in the country's waters and Exclusive Economic Zone.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066163
Sightings do not automatically mean that there really 600 plus Chinese ships, of various sizes and types, off Pag-asa Island in any given time, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said Monday.
"I just talked with the WESCOM (Western Command) commander (Vice Admiral Rene Medina). 'Yung report na binanggit, nasa mgaaround 600 plus yun yung sinasabi na (The report said there are around 600 plus vessels) for the (first three months of 2019) year. But pag binilang mo yung, lahat na yun sa sightings, 'yung involved na mga vessels (if you count all of that sightings and the involved vessels), it's below that kasi yung sinabing sightings (the sightings that were mentioned), these are the same vessels that are sighted, siguro mga(maybe) around 200 plus, yung (the) 600 is sightings but 'yung involved na mga (the involved) vessels (are) basically the same vessels na paulit-ulit na sila yung nakikita (they are just the ones seen repetitively)," he added.
WESCOM is based in Puerto Princesa, Palawan and is responsible for securing the province and its vast maritime domains, including the Kalayaan Island Group.
Also, Madrigal said military patrols are regularly carried out together with the Philippine Coast Guard.
When asked if whether the AFP is recommending the filing of a protest on the matter, the AFP chief said that is the duty of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea.
"Ito'y tinitingnan naman natin yung (We are looking at it), we have coordination with (the) committee (National Task Force) 'yung West Philippine Sea committee na tumitingin naman dun (the one that oversees that)," he added.
Meanwhile, the Department of National Defense (DND) said it is continuously monitoring the presence of Chinese vessels and their activities off the waters of Pag-asa Island.
"The Department of National Defense, meanwhile, has been communicating reports of the above (matter) to the Department of Foreign Affairs for appropriate action. Just as the Philippines honors our international obligations and protocols, we also expect other countries and their vessels to do the same especially when sailing and fishing in international waters. This is necessary in order to avoid any misunderstanding and to reduce tensions between countries in the region," the DND said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the agency encouraged Filipino fishermen to continue their fishing activities in the country's waters and Exclusive Economic Zone.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066163
Panelo to ask China envoy to clarify vessels near Pag-asa Island
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Panelo to ask China envoy to clarify vessels near Pag-asa Island
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Monday said he will ask Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua to clarify reports on the presence of Chinese vessels near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea since January this year.
Panelo confirmed that he will be meeting Zhao in a courtesy call in Malacañan Palace at 2:30 p.m. on Monday to find out whether there was truth to reports that the vessels were “circling” Pag-asa Island.
“I will ask the Ambassador if that’s true. If it’s true, ‘what are they doing there?’” Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
“I will ask him first why -- first, if they acknowledge such fact as determined by us; number two, ask him why they’re doing it, and number three, we will politely ask them not to do what they’re doing,” he added.
Panelo raised the possibility that the vessels present there may not be within the knowledge of the Chinese government.
Diplomatic protest
Panelo also bared that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has filed a diplomatic protest against China over vessels deployed near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea.
“I understand we have already issued a diplomatic protest per the Western Command. The DFA has already made a diplomatic protest over it -- that incident on the so-called vessels being stationed there,” Panelo said.
“The mere fact that they’re there and just staying there for a week, bakit? Anong ginagawa niyo doon (Why? What are you doing there)?” he added.
Panelo said anything that concerns the security of the Philippines “will always be a concern”.
‘Exaggerated’
Panelo said that a text message from Vice Admiral Rene Medina of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Command tagged an ABS-CBN news report which claimed that vessels were circling the island as “exaggerated”.
“The word ‘circling’ used by the reporter in the news article was never spoken by LTC (Elpidio) Factor in his briefing," Panelo said in reading Medina’s message, which was forwarded to him by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
“They’re just stationary there. Wala namang ginagawa, naka standby lang doon (They’re not doing anything, they’re just on standby). They’re there but they’re not circling,” Panelo said.
The Spokesperson also rejected the same report which claimed the presence of 617 vessels in Pag-asa Island noting a clarification from the WesCom that there were only 275 vessels there.
“Ang (The) total 275 hindi (not) 617,” Panelo said.
Meanwhile, Panelo said he will also ask the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to explain an advisory warning fishermen to avoid the Panatag Shoal “for the meantime” amid reports that they were experiencing harassment.
“First, if it’s true that there has been a diplomatic protest per the Western Command’s information then we have already done our part. Let’s see how they will respond to the diplomatic protest,” Panelo said.
“If it endangers their safety, then we should tell them not to in the meanwhile,” he added.
In a chance interview before his meeting with Panelo, Zhao vowed to cooperate with the Philippine government to verify the Chinese vessels in Pag-as island.
“Well, so far that I know there are fishermen from both sides, but whether the number is 600, whether they are surrounding the islands, that you have people there, it is really up to further investigation and verification,” Zhao said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066165
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Monday said he will ask Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua to clarify reports on the presence of Chinese vessels near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea since January this year.
Panelo confirmed that he will be meeting Zhao in a courtesy call in Malacañan Palace at 2:30 p.m. on Monday to find out whether there was truth to reports that the vessels were “circling” Pag-asa Island.
“I will ask the Ambassador if that’s true. If it’s true, ‘what are they doing there?’” Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
“I will ask him first why -- first, if they acknowledge such fact as determined by us; number two, ask him why they’re doing it, and number three, we will politely ask them not to do what they’re doing,” he added.
Panelo raised the possibility that the vessels present there may not be within the knowledge of the Chinese government.
Diplomatic protest
Panelo also bared that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has filed a diplomatic protest against China over vessels deployed near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea.
“I understand we have already issued a diplomatic protest per the Western Command. The DFA has already made a diplomatic protest over it -- that incident on the so-called vessels being stationed there,” Panelo said.
“The mere fact that they’re there and just staying there for a week, bakit? Anong ginagawa niyo doon (Why? What are you doing there)?” he added.
Panelo said anything that concerns the security of the Philippines “will always be a concern”.
‘Exaggerated’
Panelo said that a text message from Vice Admiral Rene Medina of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Command tagged an ABS-CBN news report which claimed that vessels were circling the island as “exaggerated”.
“The word ‘circling’ used by the reporter in the news article was never spoken by LTC (Elpidio) Factor in his briefing," Panelo said in reading Medina’s message, which was forwarded to him by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
“They’re just stationary there. Wala namang ginagawa, naka standby lang doon (They’re not doing anything, they’re just on standby). They’re there but they’re not circling,” Panelo said.
The Spokesperson also rejected the same report which claimed the presence of 617 vessels in Pag-asa Island noting a clarification from the WesCom that there were only 275 vessels there.
“Ang (The) total 275 hindi (not) 617,” Panelo said.
Meanwhile, Panelo said he will also ask the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to explain an advisory warning fishermen to avoid the Panatag Shoal “for the meantime” amid reports that they were experiencing harassment.
“First, if it’s true that there has been a diplomatic protest per the Western Command’s information then we have already done our part. Let’s see how they will respond to the diplomatic protest,” Panelo said.
“If it endangers their safety, then we should tell them not to in the meanwhile,” he added.
In a chance interview before his meeting with Panelo, Zhao vowed to cooperate with the Philippine government to verify the Chinese vessels in Pag-as island.
“Well, so far that I know there are fishermen from both sides, but whether the number is 600, whether they are surrounding the islands, that you have people there, it is really up to further investigation and verification,” Zhao said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066165
18 N. Samar cops awarded for defending post vs. NPA attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): 18 N. Samar cops awarded for defending post vs. NPA attack
Photo courtesy: PNP Public Information Office
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Oscar Albayalde on Monday commended the 18 police officers of the Victoria Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Northern Samar who repulsed the attack of 50 communist rebels last week.
“I conferred today (Monday) the prestigious award of Medalya ng Kadakilaan (PNP Heroism Medal) to 18 members of the Victoria, Municipal Police Station of Northern Samar led by Police Lt. Eladio G. Alo in recognition of their individual acts of courage and heroism against an overly superior number of enemy thus living up to the undying battle cry of the police service: ‘Always outnumbered, but never outfought’,” Albayalde told reporters in a press briefing on Monday.
Awarded with Medalya ng Kadakilaan along with Alo are Chief Master Sergeants Aimee Lutze Cadiente and Marlon Ordonia; Senior Master Sgt. Arturo Gordo Jr.; Master Sgt. Arnold Cabacang; Staff Sergeants Ramil Ramosa, Raul Francisco Jr., and Brande Esquilon; Corporals Bryan Ed Penaflor, Jaykarl Laurio, Eddie Edwin Diaz, Tracy Silagan, and Jake Salesa; and Patrolmen Ronnel Goco, Marlon Estopagian, Errol Montopar, Geral Casyao, and Jhonar Cris Bernadas.
Aside from the Medalya ng Kadakilaan, Gordo and Cabacang will also receive Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting.
Albayalde said they will also get a promotion based on the deliberation and recommendation from the regional headquarters.
Aside from Northern Samar policemen, Albayalde also posthumously honored Patrolman Wilfredo Padawil of the 1502nd Maneuver Company of the 15th Regional Mobile Force Battalion of Cordillera who was killed in an encounter with communist rebels in Bauko, Mountain Province last March 29.
Meanwhile, the clash also left Cpl. Eirphil Lapniten wounded.
Initial investigation disclosed that elements of the 1502nd Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force-15 were conducting patrol operations in Sitio Malabagan in Barangay Bangnen around 9:30 a.m. when they chanced upon the heavily-armed rebels.
The operation was part of the PNP's initiatives to seek an end to the decades-long fight of the national government against the NPA.
"There is no let-up in our offensive because President (Rodrigo) Duterte gave a directive for us to, once and for all, end the country's problem on insurgency," Albayalde said.
"By the time he steps down from office, he wants insurgency totally eradicated. That's what we're working on now," he added.
Albayalde expressed condolences to the family of Padawil, who was hit in the right portion of his neck. The bullet exited his left hip, suggesting that the enemies were on a higher ground.
“The whole PNP forwards their condolences and we know that this police officer is a hero. He sacrificed his life for the freedom and for the people,” Albayalde said, who is set to visit Padawil’s family in Sagada, Mountain Province.
Albayalde went to the Benguet General Hospital to visit Lapniten last Saturday.
Lapniten received the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting from Albayalde.
Both families of Padawil and Lapniten are expected to receive financial assistance from the Office of the Chief PNP.
Albayalde said all due benefits for a cop who was killed (KIA) and wounded in action (WIA) will be given to the respective families of the two cops.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066168
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Oscar Albayalde on Monday commended the 18 police officers of the Victoria Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Northern Samar who repulsed the attack of 50 communist rebels last week.
“I conferred today (Monday) the prestigious award of Medalya ng Kadakilaan (PNP Heroism Medal) to 18 members of the Victoria, Municipal Police Station of Northern Samar led by Police Lt. Eladio G. Alo in recognition of their individual acts of courage and heroism against an overly superior number of enemy thus living up to the undying battle cry of the police service: ‘Always outnumbered, but never outfought’,” Albayalde told reporters in a press briefing on Monday.
Awarded with Medalya ng Kadakilaan along with Alo are Chief Master Sergeants Aimee Lutze Cadiente and Marlon Ordonia; Senior Master Sgt. Arturo Gordo Jr.; Master Sgt. Arnold Cabacang; Staff Sergeants Ramil Ramosa, Raul Francisco Jr., and Brande Esquilon; Corporals Bryan Ed Penaflor, Jaykarl Laurio, Eddie Edwin Diaz, Tracy Silagan, and Jake Salesa; and Patrolmen Ronnel Goco, Marlon Estopagian, Errol Montopar, Geral Casyao, and Jhonar Cris Bernadas.
Aside from the Medalya ng Kadakilaan, Gordo and Cabacang will also receive Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting.
Albayalde said they will also get a promotion based on the deliberation and recommendation from the regional headquarters.
Aside from Northern Samar policemen, Albayalde also posthumously honored Patrolman Wilfredo Padawil of the 1502nd Maneuver Company of the 15th Regional Mobile Force Battalion of Cordillera who was killed in an encounter with communist rebels in Bauko, Mountain Province last March 29.
Meanwhile, the clash also left Cpl. Eirphil Lapniten wounded.
Initial investigation disclosed that elements of the 1502nd Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force-15 were conducting patrol operations in Sitio Malabagan in Barangay Bangnen around 9:30 a.m. when they chanced upon the heavily-armed rebels.
The operation was part of the PNP's initiatives to seek an end to the decades-long fight of the national government against the NPA.
"There is no let-up in our offensive because President (Rodrigo) Duterte gave a directive for us to, once and for all, end the country's problem on insurgency," Albayalde said.
"By the time he steps down from office, he wants insurgency totally eradicated. That's what we're working on now," he added.
Albayalde expressed condolences to the family of Padawil, who was hit in the right portion of his neck. The bullet exited his left hip, suggesting that the enemies were on a higher ground.
“The whole PNP forwards their condolences and we know that this police officer is a hero. He sacrificed his life for the freedom and for the people,” Albayalde said, who is set to visit Padawil’s family in Sagada, Mountain Province.
Albayalde went to the Benguet General Hospital to visit Lapniten last Saturday.
Lapniten received the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting from Albayalde.
Both families of Padawil and Lapniten are expected to receive financial assistance from the Office of the Chief PNP.
Albayalde said all due benefits for a cop who was killed (KIA) and wounded in action (WIA) will be given to the respective families of the two cops.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066168
PNP to parents: Be wary of Reds' recruitment in schools
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): PNP to parents: Be wary of Reds' recruitment in schools
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday urged parents to monitor the activities of their children, especially those which are not sanctioned or approved by their respective schools.
PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde made the reminder as communist rebels use extra-curricular activities to recruit members among unsuspecting students.
"As we usher the summer season with the culmination of the previous school year, I am taking the urgency of raising awareness among parents and school administrators to be mindful of students' extra-curricular activities that are not sanctioned or approved by school authorities such as off-campus social immersion programs, teach-ins, symposia, social field work and community organization in areas of operation of armed units of the local communist movement,” Albayalde told reporters during the press conference after the Monday’s flag ceremony.
He said some members of militant youth and student organizations are also known to participate in indoctrination and “social immersion” courses in clandestine training camps during school break, without their parents knowing about it.
The country's top cop said there had been persistent reports of sighting and even active participation of some university students in some insurgent activities, including armed encounters with government security forces.
Albayalde cited the recent arrest of Aljon Tamuyang Cardenas, 18, a student of University of Eastern Philippines in Calbayog City who was among 50 communist terrorists who attacked the Victoria Municipal Police Station in Northern Samar last March 28, 2019.
The attack was allegedly conducted to drumbeat the 50th founding anniversary of the New People's Army (NPA).
Albayalde said Cardenas was not the only student captured while participating in the activities of the communist groups.
"Cardenas is not the first, and hopefully he would be the last student to fall for the grand communist deception who allowed himself to be used as cannon fodder in this 50-year protracted war of the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA that is going nowhere," Albayalde said.
Albayalde stressed the PNP recognizes academic freedom to promote critical thinking but the moment the militant students take up arms to topple the government, they become enemies of the state and subject to appropriate law enforcement response.
"God forbid but we do not want these unwary students to be along the line of fire when our maneuver forces launch a summer offensive in the CPP-NPA heartland in the coming weeks," he added.
Albayalde earlier said there is nothing wrong with student activism but it must not reach the point of taking up arms against the government.
Despite the PNP's hardline stance against the communist terrorists, Albayalde said the PNP continues to extend the government's grand gesture of peace and reconciliation through peace negotiations with local units of the communist movement under a National Peace Framework pursuant to Executive Order 70.
In a related development, Albayalde also welcomed the 47 members of the communist movement from Laguna, Rizal and Quezon who formally surrendered to the Philippine Army and the PNP-Calabarzon over the weekend.
The former rebels also yielded an arsenal of explosives and 25 high-powered firearms.
Earlier this month, 29 NPA members in Negros Occidental and Iloilo also surrendered to authorities.
“These rebel surrenderers are now free to rebuild their lives and enjoy peace and prosperity with their families and take the opportunity to avail of the government's amnesty program and livelihood assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Albayalde said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.
He said the program features the establishment of halfway houses/receiving facilities where the former rebels are to be welcomed and housed for security measures during the facilitation of their surrender.
E-CLIP was established through the Administrative Order 10 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on April 3, 2018.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066149
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday urged parents to monitor the activities of their children, especially those which are not sanctioned or approved by their respective schools.
PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde made the reminder as communist rebels use extra-curricular activities to recruit members among unsuspecting students.
"As we usher the summer season with the culmination of the previous school year, I am taking the urgency of raising awareness among parents and school administrators to be mindful of students' extra-curricular activities that are not sanctioned or approved by school authorities such as off-campus social immersion programs, teach-ins, symposia, social field work and community organization in areas of operation of armed units of the local communist movement,” Albayalde told reporters during the press conference after the Monday’s flag ceremony.
He said some members of militant youth and student organizations are also known to participate in indoctrination and “social immersion” courses in clandestine training camps during school break, without their parents knowing about it.
The country's top cop said there had been persistent reports of sighting and even active participation of some university students in some insurgent activities, including armed encounters with government security forces.
Albayalde cited the recent arrest of Aljon Tamuyang Cardenas, 18, a student of University of Eastern Philippines in Calbayog City who was among 50 communist terrorists who attacked the Victoria Municipal Police Station in Northern Samar last March 28, 2019.
The attack was allegedly conducted to drumbeat the 50th founding anniversary of the New People's Army (NPA).
Albayalde said Cardenas was not the only student captured while participating in the activities of the communist groups.
"Cardenas is not the first, and hopefully he would be the last student to fall for the grand communist deception who allowed himself to be used as cannon fodder in this 50-year protracted war of the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA that is going nowhere," Albayalde said.
Albayalde stressed the PNP recognizes academic freedom to promote critical thinking but the moment the militant students take up arms to topple the government, they become enemies of the state and subject to appropriate law enforcement response.
"God forbid but we do not want these unwary students to be along the line of fire when our maneuver forces launch a summer offensive in the CPP-NPA heartland in the coming weeks," he added.
Albayalde earlier said there is nothing wrong with student activism but it must not reach the point of taking up arms against the government.
Despite the PNP's hardline stance against the communist terrorists, Albayalde said the PNP continues to extend the government's grand gesture of peace and reconciliation through peace negotiations with local units of the communist movement under a National Peace Framework pursuant to Executive Order 70.
In a related development, Albayalde also welcomed the 47 members of the communist movement from Laguna, Rizal and Quezon who formally surrendered to the Philippine Army and the PNP-Calabarzon over the weekend.
The former rebels also yielded an arsenal of explosives and 25 high-powered firearms.
Earlier this month, 29 NPA members in Negros Occidental and Iloilo also surrendered to authorities.
“These rebel surrenderers are now free to rebuild their lives and enjoy peace and prosperity with their families and take the opportunity to avail of the government's amnesty program and livelihood assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Albayalde said.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.
He said the program features the establishment of halfway houses/receiving facilities where the former rebels are to be welcomed and housed for security measures during the facilitation of their surrender.
E-CLIP was established through the Administrative Order 10 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on April 3, 2018.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066149
Reds' organizations disguising as relief groups: Parlade
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Reds' organizations disguising as relief groups: Parlade
To gather funds to be used in their efforts to bring down the government, some front groups of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) are masquerading as relief organizations.
This was bared by Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, in a message to the Philippine News Agency Monday.
He cited as example "Panday Bolig" as part of groups allied with the communist movement, which used such tactics during the aftermath of typhoons "Yolanda" and "Pablo".
"These front organizations appeal to the kind-hearted especially in Canada and US, Europe, Australia etc., but only a portion are spent for the actual rehabilitation. According to revelations of former rebels and organizers, a good 60 percent of the solicited funds go to the CPP. Only 40 percent are spent for (rehabilitation), if at all. Reports from California Filipino Communities last November 2018 said that their donations went unaccounted during the onslaught of 'Yolanda' for instance," Parlade added.
"In the Visayas, they use CERNET (Community Empowerment Resource Network) as the CPP clearing house of all these fake advocacies. We saw this pattern earlier in the past but it’s only now that we had solid evidence after the series of engagements we had with EU and some European governments. In the days to come we will expose the other 'miracles' the CPP have been doing. This is just the tip of the iceberg," the military official said.
With these developments, Parlade said these front groups are in panic mode, prompting them to highlight and even distort issues like "massacre" in the case of the legitimate police operations in Negros Oriental, killing of IPs (indigenous peoples) by CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) even if CAFGUs (are) not involved, and hype those killed in the drug war for two reasons.
He said these reasons include the establishment of a "consistent pattern of gross, flagrant, or mass violations of HR" so CPP founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison can invoke Article 8, Paragraph 2 of UN General Assembly Resolution 47/133 and non-refoulement (he can't be extradited if there is still danger of state persecution because of these "alleged" conditions in Philippines) and to justify foreign funding and support for Human Rights Watch, fact-finding missions etc.
"The SOS (Save Our Schools), Bakwit, EJK, bombing threat to Salugpungan, killing of lawyers, all based on fabricated reports and lies, are all designed to keep money from EU (European Union) coming. We will continue to expose their deception strategy with the truth we are equipped with now. Are we not wondering none of them is taking the challenge?" the military official added.
Parlade said these funds from NGOs are what they use in recovering lost ground, even without their armed groups.
"These funds were used to organize their mass base, with livelihood projects that promote the CPP and highlight the neglect of government, rather partner with government to develop the countryside," he added.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066191
To gather funds to be used in their efforts to bring down the government, some front groups of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) are masquerading as relief organizations.
This was bared by Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief-of-staff for civil-military operations, in a message to the Philippine News Agency Monday.
He cited as example "Panday Bolig" as part of groups allied with the communist movement, which used such tactics during the aftermath of typhoons "Yolanda" and "Pablo".
"These front organizations appeal to the kind-hearted especially in Canada and US, Europe, Australia etc., but only a portion are spent for the actual rehabilitation. According to revelations of former rebels and organizers, a good 60 percent of the solicited funds go to the CPP. Only 40 percent are spent for (rehabilitation), if at all. Reports from California Filipino Communities last November 2018 said that their donations went unaccounted during the onslaught of 'Yolanda' for instance," Parlade added.
"In the Visayas, they use CERNET (Community Empowerment Resource Network) as the CPP clearing house of all these fake advocacies. We saw this pattern earlier in the past but it’s only now that we had solid evidence after the series of engagements we had with EU and some European governments. In the days to come we will expose the other 'miracles' the CPP have been doing. This is just the tip of the iceberg," the military official said.
With these developments, Parlade said these front groups are in panic mode, prompting them to highlight and even distort issues like "massacre" in the case of the legitimate police operations in Negros Oriental, killing of IPs (indigenous peoples) by CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) even if CAFGUs (are) not involved, and hype those killed in the drug war for two reasons.
He said these reasons include the establishment of a "consistent pattern of gross, flagrant, or mass violations of HR" so CPP founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison can invoke Article 8, Paragraph 2 of UN General Assembly Resolution 47/133 and non-refoulement (he can't be extradited if there is still danger of state persecution because of these "alleged" conditions in Philippines) and to justify foreign funding and support for Human Rights Watch, fact-finding missions etc.
"The SOS (Save Our Schools), Bakwit, EJK, bombing threat to Salugpungan, killing of lawyers, all based on fabricated reports and lies, are all designed to keep money from EU (European Union) coming. We will continue to expose their deception strategy with the truth we are equipped with now. Are we not wondering none of them is taking the challenge?" the military official added.
Parlade said these funds from NGOs are what they use in recovering lost ground, even without their armed groups.
"These funds were used to organize their mass base, with livelihood projects that promote the CPP and highlight the neglect of government, rather partner with government to develop the countryside," he added.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066191
Palace defends Capuyan appointment to anti-insurgency office
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1, 2019): Palace defends Capuyan appointment to anti-insurgency office
Malacañang on Monday defended the appointment of retired colonel Allen Capuyan as Executive Director of the National Secretariat of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said it is the call of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to appoint whoever he felt would best lead the anti-insurgency office.
“Since the President has appointed him to that post, then the President, I’m sure, knows what he’s doing,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
“Maybe he doesn’t believe in the corruption charges. As I said, that is the call of the President,” he added.
Capuyan's appointment was met with criticism since he was earlier linked to the smuggling of PHP6.4 billion worth of shabu from China in 2017.
He was also reported to be the person behind the “Hello, Garci” wiretapping scandal under the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Capuyan's appointment paper was signed on March 25 but a copy of which was released to media on March 30.
Prior to being appointed as anti-insurgency office head, he was also the President's adviser for indigenous people's concerns and official of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA).
In December 2018, Duterte created a national task force to “end” local communist armed conflict and adopt a national peace framework that will contain policies addressing the root causes of insurgencies.
Under Executive Order 70, signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea by authority of the President, the task force is mandated to formulate a National Peace Framework which shall include, among others, a mechanism for local peace engagements or negotiations and interventions within six months.
The framework should be anchored on a “whole-of-nation approach” which prioritizes the delivery of basic services and social development packages by the government, facilitates societal inclusivity, and ensures active participation of all sectors of the society in the pursuit of the country's peace agenda.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066224
Malacañang on Monday defended the appointment of retired colonel Allen Capuyan as Executive Director of the National Secretariat of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said it is the call of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to appoint whoever he felt would best lead the anti-insurgency office.
“Since the President has appointed him to that post, then the President, I’m sure, knows what he’s doing,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
“Maybe he doesn’t believe in the corruption charges. As I said, that is the call of the President,” he added.
Capuyan's appointment was met with criticism since he was earlier linked to the smuggling of PHP6.4 billion worth of shabu from China in 2017.
He was also reported to be the person behind the “Hello, Garci” wiretapping scandal under the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Capuyan's appointment paper was signed on March 25 but a copy of which was released to media on March 30.
Prior to being appointed as anti-insurgency office head, he was also the President's adviser for indigenous people's concerns and official of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA).
In December 2018, Duterte created a national task force to “end” local communist armed conflict and adopt a national peace framework that will contain policies addressing the root causes of insurgencies.
Under Executive Order 70, signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea by authority of the President, the task force is mandated to formulate a National Peace Framework which shall include, among others, a mechanism for local peace engagements or negotiations and interventions within six months.
The framework should be anchored on a “whole-of-nation approach” which prioritizes the delivery of basic services and social development packages by the government, facilitates societal inclusivity, and ensures active participation of all sectors of the society in the pursuit of the country's peace agenda.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066224
Balikatan vs China? Drills not aimed at any country, says U.S.
From Rappler (Apr 1, 2019): Balikatan vs China? Drills not aimed at any country, says U.S.
Balikatan Exercise Director Chris McPhillips says the purpose of the exercises is to develop cooperation among Filipino, American, and Australian soldiers
FOR THE SOLDIERS. United States Brigadier General Chris McPhillips speaks to reporters at Philippine military headquarters Camp Aguinaldo. Photo by Rambo Talabong/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – After US Secretary of
State Mike Pompeo gave
an assurance that his country would defend the Philippines in case of any armed
attack in the South China Sea, will the joint exercises of the two countries be
modified just in case?
Rambo Talabong @rambotalabong
No, according to United States Balikatan
Exercise Director Brigadier General Chris McPhillips.
"While each year we change Balikatan a little bit, like
the general said, to introduce new capabilities and training, Balikatan is not
aimed at any other nation in the region," McPhillips said in the joint
exercises' opening press conference on Monday, April 1, after being asked
whether the exercises have been modified given Pompeo's recent statement.
The 35th Balikatan
exercises of the Philippine and US militaries opened on Monday,
with renewed promises for cooperation amid increasing tensions in the region.
The Balikatan includes live-fire drills and
amphibious landing exercises in Tarlac and Zambales provinces in the Philippines ' Luzon
island region.
HAPPENING NOW: Balikatan 2019 opening press briefing led by PH Exercise Director LtGen Gilbert Gapay and US Exercise Director BGen Chris McPhillips. @rapplerdotcom
The increasingly complex security scenarios have led Philippine Defense
Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to call for the review of the longtime allies' 68-year-old
Mutual Defense Treaty, which for him remains "vague."
On March 1, the Philippines
got verbal clarification on the agreement from Pompeo, who said that "any
armed attack on any Philippine forces, aircraft, or public vessels in the South China Sea will trigger mutual defense
obligations."This has not been translated to the joint
exercises, McPhillips said, because the purpose of the exercises is not to
battle any country, but to develop cooperation among Filipino, American, and
Australian soldiers.The 2019 Balikatan is one of the biggest in
recent years, with 4,000 Filipino, 3,500 American, and 50 Australian soldiers
banding together until April 12, when the exercises conclude.Philippine Balikatan Exercise Director
Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay added
that Balikatan training scenarios are "generic in nature."
This year, we focus on global terrorism,
and of course for our part is territorial defense, and of course, disaster
response, so those are the 3 major capabilities which we would like to enhance
in this Balikatan exercise, so everything is a generic scenario," Gapay
said.
12-day Balikatan 2019 starts; more than 7,500 PH, U.S., Australian troops participating
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 1, 2019): 12-day Balikatan 2019 starts; more than 7,500 PH, U.S., Australian troops participating
Philippine, American and Australian service members gathered for the Balikatan 2019 opening at the Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday, April 1.
The 35th PH, US Balikatan Exercise opened at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Monday
Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, symbolizes the partnership between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and U.S. Forces.
Philippine and U.S. organizers said about 4,000 Philippine troops, 3,500 U.S. soldiers and 50 Australian Defence Force members will participate in the exercise.
U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Christopher McPhillips, thr U.S. Exercise Director, said Exercise Balikatan has become one of the premier military training events in the Pacific Hemisphere.
“Balikatan has helped us to maintain regional stability, uphold international norms, combat violent extremism, alleviate human suffering, and much more,” McPhillips said.
During Balikatan, which will run from April 1-12, Philippine and U.S. forces will conduct counterterrorism training, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations training, aviation operations, bilateral planning, subject matter expert exchanges, and humanitarian and civic assistance projects throughout Luzon.
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Philippines exercise director, said the 35th iteration of Exercise Balikatan is aimed at improving both AFP and US Forces’ interoperability through trainings that are focused on mutual defense operations and counterterrorism.
“The goal of such is to enhance both militaries’ employment of forces and assistance in the event of crises that threaten the safety and security of the nation,” Gapay said.
Gapay said Balikatan focuses on maintaining a high level of readiness and responsiveness, and enhancing combined military-to-military relations and capabilities.
Balikatan training helps to reinforcing maritime security, territorial defense capabilities, and responsiveness to humanitarian disasters.
The exercise also includes the participation of the Australian Defence Force for humanitarian and civic assistance projects and special operations forces training.
Philippine and U.S. military collaboration has served as a cornerstone for stability in the Indo-Pacific region for decades. Both militaries share a continuing interest in strengthening the longstanding alliance.
Philippine, American and Australian service members gathered for the Balikatan 2019 opening at the Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday, April 1.
The 35th PH, US Balikatan Exercise opened at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Monday
Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, symbolizes the partnership between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and U.S. Forces.
Philippine and U.S. organizers said about 4,000 Philippine troops, 3,500 U.S. soldiers and 50 Australian Defence Force members will participate in the exercise.
U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Christopher McPhillips, thr U.S. Exercise Director, said Exercise Balikatan has become one of the premier military training events in the Pacific Hemisphere.
“Balikatan has helped us to maintain regional stability, uphold international norms, combat violent extremism, alleviate human suffering, and much more,” McPhillips said.
During Balikatan, which will run from April 1-12, Philippine and U.S. forces will conduct counterterrorism training, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations training, aviation operations, bilateral planning, subject matter expert exchanges, and humanitarian and civic assistance projects throughout Luzon.
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Philippines exercise director, said the 35th iteration of Exercise Balikatan is aimed at improving both AFP and US Forces’ interoperability through trainings that are focused on mutual defense operations and counterterrorism.
“The goal of such is to enhance both militaries’ employment of forces and assistance in the event of crises that threaten the safety and security of the nation,” Gapay said.
Gapay said Balikatan focuses on maintaining a high level of readiness and responsiveness, and enhancing combined military-to-military relations and capabilities.
Balikatan training helps to reinforcing maritime security, territorial defense capabilities, and responsiveness to humanitarian disasters.
The exercise also includes the participation of the Australian Defence Force for humanitarian and civic assistance projects and special operations forces training.
Philippine and U.S. military collaboration has served as a cornerstone for stability in the Indo-Pacific region for decades. Both militaries share a continuing interest in strengthening the longstanding alliance.
'Scaled-up' Balikatan focuses on territorial defense, counterterrorism
From the Philippine Star (Apr 1, 2019): 'Scaled-up' Balikatan focuses on territorial defense, counterterrorism
Philippines exercise director Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Defense Undersecretary Cardozo Luna, United States Ambassador Sung Kim, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., US exercise director Brig. Gen. Chris McPhillips join hands during the opening ceremony of the 2019 Balikatan Exercise at Campa Aguinaldo in Quezon City. Philstar.com/Efigenio Toledo IV
Philippines exercise director Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Defense Undersecretary Cardozo Luna, United States Ambassador Sung Kim, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., US exercise director Brig. Gen. Chris McPhillips join hands during the opening ceremony of the 2019 Balikatan Exercise at Campa Aguinaldo in Quezon City. Philstar.com/Efigenio Toledo IV
This year's joint Balikatan exercises between the Philippines and the United States would focus more on territorial defense and counterterrorism.
The two allies launched the annual Balikatan, which means "shoulder-to-shoulder" in Filipino, which will run from April 1 to 12 in several areas in Luzon.
"Unique from the previous years, Balikatan 2019 have scaled-up exercises gaining more focus on the area of territorial defense and counterterrorism operations. It is our primary goal that the exercise outcome would be beneficial for everyone," Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said during the opening ceremony.
During the two-week exercises, Filipino, American and Australian troops will be participating in counterterrorism training, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations training, aviation operations, bilateral planning, subject matter expert exchanges and humanitarian and civic assistance projects.
US Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Chris McPhillips, US exercise director, noted that the Balikatan exercises demonstrate the American troops' commitment to staying "shoulder-to-shoulder" with their Filipino counterparts.
He added that this year's exercises would feature the largest joint combined forces in recent years.
"Balikatan 2019 will consist of the largest combined force in many years, including nearly 7,000 total Philippine, US service personnel," McPhillips said.
The military earlier disclosed that at least 4,000 from the AFP, 3,500 from the US Marine Corps and 50 from the Australian Defense Force will be participating this year.
Australian soldiers will participate in humanitarian and civic assistance and special operations forces training.
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Philippine exercise director, further explained that this year's joint military drills would have four major event categories — staff exercise, joint interoperability exercises, combined interoperability events and humanitarian and civic assistance events.
According to Gapay, the staff exercise seeks to enhance capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and counterterrorism operations.
"These events would provide an opportunity to properly test, evaluate, validate the Philippine-United States interoperability and unilateral and bilateral procedures and protocols," Gapay said.
Asked if the exercises would address the maritime dispute in the South China Sea, Gapay clarified that the Balikatan is not directed at any security threat.
"Balikatan is generic in nature. This year, we focus on terrorism, territorial defense and disaster response. Everything is generic and scenario-based," Gapay said.
The two allies launched the annual Balikatan, which means "shoulder-to-shoulder" in Filipino, which will run from April 1 to 12 in several areas in Luzon.
"Unique from the previous years, Balikatan 2019 have scaled-up exercises gaining more focus on the area of territorial defense and counterterrorism operations. It is our primary goal that the exercise outcome would be beneficial for everyone," Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said during the opening ceremony.
During the two-week exercises, Filipino, American and Australian troops will be participating in counterterrorism training, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations training, aviation operations, bilateral planning, subject matter expert exchanges and humanitarian and civic assistance projects.
US Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Chris McPhillips, US exercise director, noted that the Balikatan exercises demonstrate the American troops' commitment to staying "shoulder-to-shoulder" with their Filipino counterparts.
He added that this year's exercises would feature the largest joint combined forces in recent years.
"Balikatan 2019 will consist of the largest combined force in many years, including nearly 7,000 total Philippine, US service personnel," McPhillips said.
The military earlier disclosed that at least 4,000 from the AFP, 3,500 from the US Marine Corps and 50 from the Australian Defense Force will be participating this year.
Australian soldiers will participate in humanitarian and civic assistance and special operations forces training.
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Philippine exercise director, further explained that this year's joint military drills would have four major event categories — staff exercise, joint interoperability exercises, combined interoperability events and humanitarian and civic assistance events.
According to Gapay, the staff exercise seeks to enhance capabilities and preparedness to conduct territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and counterterrorism operations.
"These events would provide an opportunity to properly test, evaluate, validate the Philippine-United States interoperability and unilateral and bilateral procedures and protocols," Gapay said.
Asked if the exercises would address the maritime dispute in the South China Sea, Gapay clarified that the Balikatan is not directed at any security threat.
"Balikatan is generic in nature. This year, we focus on terrorism, territorial defense and disaster response. Everything is generic and scenario-based," Gapay said.
Army uncovers Maute terror plot
From the Philippine Star (Apr 1, 2019): Army uncovers Maute terror plot
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — The military has uncovered an alleged plot by the Maute terrorist group to launch bombings, kidnappings and extortion during the election period in Lanao provinces.
The information was intercepted by the military’s intelligence unit tracking down the remaining Maute group in Lanao del Sur, Col. Romeo Brawner, chief of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, said yesterday.
Brawner said the plot was confirmed by some members of the terrorist group, who have surrendered to the military, and documents recovered from the terrorists’ lairs.
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — The military has uncovered an alleged plot by the Maute terrorist group to launch bombings, kidnappings and extortion during the election period in Lanao provinces.
The information was intercepted by the military’s intelligence unit tracking down the remaining Maute group in Lanao del Sur, Col. Romeo Brawner, chief of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, said yesterday.
Brawner said the plot was confirmed by some members of the terrorist group, who have surrendered to the military, and documents recovered from the terrorists’ lairs.
“We heard of their plots to conduct bombings, continue their activities of kidnapping and other criminal acts like extortion. But they failed to carry these out due to our relentless operations against them,” Brawner said.
He said reports showed the Maute terrorist group was divided into smaller groups after the deaths of the leaders.
Brawner said intelligence reports indicated the group has only 15 remaining members.
He said he could not rule out the support the group is receiving from the relatives of its members.
“Although their relatives know that they are bandits, support is still given,” Brawner said.
The Western Mindanao Command vowed to deploy additional security men in several areas in Mindanao after the police listed 454 election hotspots in the region.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/04/01/1906172/army-uncovers-maute-terror-plot
He said reports showed the Maute terrorist group was divided into smaller groups after the deaths of the leaders.
Brawner said intelligence reports indicated the group has only 15 remaining members.
He said he could not rule out the support the group is receiving from the relatives of its members.
“Although their relatives know that they are bandits, support is still given,” Brawner said.
The Western Mindanao Command vowed to deploy additional security men in several areas in Mindanao after the police listed 454 election hotspots in the region.
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/04/01/1906172/army-uncovers-maute-terror-plot
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