New BARMM top cop assumes office

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): New BARMM top cop assumes office

PRO-BARMM LEADERSHIP. Brigadier General Marni Marcos (left), incoming chief of the Police Regional Office – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM), replaced on Tuesday (May 28) Brigadier General Graciano Mijares (right), who is reassigned to another area. Both graduated at the Philippine Military Academy in 1998. (Combined photos courtesy of PRO-BARMM)

The chief of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) is now the new regional director of the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Brig. Gen. Marni Marcos, formerly director of PNP-ACG, assumed office on Tuesday as PRO-BARMM regional director, replacing his “mistah” (batchmate) in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Brig. Gen. Graciano Mijares.

Both graduated from the PMA in 1988. Mijares will take over the post vacated by Marcos at the ACG.

Mijares will be leaving a police organization that played major roles in settling amicable clan wars involving Moro families in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

As he leaves PRO-BARMM, his home for the past year and a half, Mijares called on the officers and rank and file personnel to give Marcos the same support he received from them.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070855

Explosion rocks house of Pangasinan barangay captain

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): Explosion rocks house of Pangasinan barangay captain



EXPLOSION. The San Fabian Police Station and other operatives are investigating the explosion incident that happened in front of the house of an incumbent barangay captain in San Fabian town. (Photo courtesy of San Fabian Police Station)

SAN FABIAN, Pangasinan -- An explosion caused by still unknown explosive device Monday night damaged the house of an incumbent barangay captain.

Maj. Melecio Mina, officer in charge of San Fabian Police Station, said Chairman Virgilio Garcia of Barangay Armal reported the explosion incident Tuesday morning.

“Garcia and his family heard a motorcycle in front of their house before the explosion happened. They did not bother to check who the culprit is due to fear. They reported the incident morning the following day, the only time they were able to check the extent of the damage caused by the explosion,” he said in an interview Tuesday.

Based on an initial investigation, Mina said the blast caused by still unknown explosive device destroyed the glass windows of Garcia’s house, and the windows and windshield of their car and van parked in front of their house.

The roof and pavement were also damaged.

No injury was reported after the incident.

“The barangay captain reported in our station the previous week about the threat he has been receiving,” he said.

Mina said investigators are still identifying the explosive device used by the suspect or suspects, and determining the motive.

“The suspect/ suspects took advantage of the heavy downpour last night in executing the crime,” he added.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070886

AFP chief confident PMA Class 2019 will serve PH well

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): AFP chief confident PMA Class 2019 will serve PH well



Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Jr. is confident that all 261 graduates of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Mabalasik Class" of 2019 will do well and serve the country faithfully, in whatever branch of service they will opt to join.

"Being an alumnus myself, I am confident that the Academy has prepared each one of them to be "fleet-ready, field-ready, and squadron-ready," he said in a statement to reporters late Monday.

Madrigal, a member of PMA Class of 1985, also welcomed the new military officers into the AFP and expressed confidence that they will rise up to every challenge in their careers.

The PMA Class of 2019 formally graduated on Sunday at the grounds of Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City.

"The unfolding chapter of their career will be full of challenges that will test their mettle, as well as opportunities for further learning," the AFP chief added.

From this point, Madrigal said these new officers will be deployed in rural communities and be given the chance to address the persisting problems and root causes of conflict in the country, many of which can change their perspective, present them with hard choices, and, in some cases, sacrifice their lives.

"In all these, I hope that they will never forget the Honor Code and the character that was built upon them and "hold the trust long after they have left the long gray line. Ultimately, in the face of the hardest of challenges to their life, dignity, and integrity, be guided by the Academy's Core Values of selfless service, honor, and excellence," the AFP chief said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070833

Rapid Gun ideal weapon for Jose Rizal-class frigates

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): Rapid Gun ideal weapon for Jose Rizal-class frigates

Photo courtesy: Hyundai Heavy Industries

Having a high rate of fire and the ability to shoot down air targets like missiles makes the Oto Melara 76mm Rapid Gun an ideal weapon for the newly-launched BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the country's first ever missile-armed frigate.

This was emphasized by Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Captain Jonathan Zata in response to Philippine News Agency's queries on how good and efficient the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid Gun is.

"It (the gun) is capable of intercepting air targets to include missiles using special munitions," the Navy spokesperson told the Philippine News Agency Tuesday, quoting Offshore Combat Force head, Commodore Caesar Bernard Valencia.

Also, the Super Rapid Gun has a faster rate of fire, around 120 rounds per minute, compared to the current 76mm guns in the PN inventory which is only 80 rounds per minute.

These slower-firing 76mm guns are fitting for the three Del Pilar-class offshore patrol vessels and three Jacinto-class patrol vessels.

Having the Super Rapid Gun fitted to BRP Jose Rizal and the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) -- currently being built -- is ideal as PN personnel are already trained in the maintenance of 76mm guns and compatible with the current munition inventory.

"(And the Super Rapid Gun is) within Approved Budget Contract for the (frigates' weapons systems)," Zata said.

The Philippines and South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) signed a PHP16-billion contract for two missile-armed frigates with another PHP2 billion set aside for its weapon systems and munition in October 2016.

The BRP Jose Rizal was launched at HHI's Ulsan shipyard last May 23 while its sister ship, BRP Antonio Luna, had its keel laid also on the same day.

Aside from the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid Gun, the ships will be also be armed with an Aselsan SMASH 30mm remote-controlled secondary cannon, anti-submarine torpedoes and anti-air and ship missiles.

It is also equipped with Hanwha Systems' Naval Shield combat management system (CMS), which integrates all shipboard sensors and weapons and decides on which is ideal to deal with any incoming threats.

The above-mentioned system can also detect and track around 4,000 targets and is used in various configurations by the Republic of Korea Navy, Royal Malaysian Navy, and the Indonesian Navy.

The ships measure 351 feet long and 46 feet wide and have a maximum speed of 25 knots and can travel up to 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots and can sustain operational presence for 30 days. It is also capable to withstand rough sea conditions up to Sea State 7.

"Each frigate has a complement of more than 100 officers and crew. It has a flight deck located at the stern with the ability to handle one maritime helicopter weighing up to 12 tons. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats will be carried to conduct military and emergency operations at sea," Zata added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070845

Albayalde OKs reshuffle of 5 key PNP officials

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): Albayalde OKs reshuffle of 5 key PNP officials



Five police officials were included in the reshuffle of top Philippine National Police (PNP) officials, which took effect on Tuesday.

“I have approved the recommendation of the Senior Officers Placement and Promotion Board and Oversight Committee to implement another round of reorganization of senior officers occupying key positions in the Directorial and Special Staff, National Support Units, and Police Regional Offices,” PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde told reporters.

Those designated to new positions are Brig. Gen. Froilan Flores Quidilla, former deputy director for administration of the Police Regional Office (PRO 4-B) in Mimaropa, who was assigned as the acting director of the Zamboanga PRO.

Quidilla replaces Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Licup, who was assigned as the acting deputy director of the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management.

Taking the helm as deputy director for administration in Mimaropa is Col. Nelson Bondoc, who was formerly assigned at the PNP Engineering Service.

Meanwhile, Anti-Cyber Crime Group director Brig. Gen. Marni Marcos Jr. was appointed as the new acting regional director of the PRO-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). He switched positions with BARMM regional director Brig. Gen. Graciano Mijares.

Albayalde ordered a reshuffle in the organization's top brass, stressing that they were out to ensure that the right person will be in the right post.

“The latest reorganization is prompted by the series of retirement of senior PNP officials this year, the two-year maximum tenure in positions and the Performance Evaluation Rating that created vacancies need to be filled to ensure continuity of command,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070850

PNP alert status returns to 'normal' except in Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): PNP alert status returns to 'normal' except in Mindanao



The Philippine National Police (PNP) has downgraded its alert status from full to normal alert nationwide, except in Mindanao which is under martial law.

PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde said regional directors of Police Regional Offices (PRO) 1 to 8, Cordillera, and National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) are given the discretion to raise the alert level if deemed necessary and based on the prevailing threat situation.

“Our police force will continue to be aggressive and intelligence-driven against criminal gangs, terrorists, and lawless elements as we intensify our focused police operations to address threats and violence,” Albayalde said in a statement on Tuesday.

At the same time, the country’s top cop said the PNP will field a total of 120,000 personnel in accordance with the security and safety plans for the opening of classes on June 3.

Albayalde said the PNP’s guidelines for 'Ligtas Balik-Eskwela 2019' is to ensure the operational readiness of police units in responding to peace and order concerns including threats from criminal elements that may take advantage of the situation.

“Along these efforts, we set our plans with enough number of police force to be deployed to launch mobile and foot patrols along major routes and highways for the 2019 Balik Eskwela leading to all schools and other learning institutions,” Albayalde said.

He said the PNP will establish Police Assistance Desks (PADs) in all school campuses and other learning institutions nationwide in coordination with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, school authorities, local government units, and barangay force multipliers.

Albayalde assured the public that the PNP is committed to provide security coverage for public safety services and institute various crime prevention operations, focusing on the Enhanced Managing Police Operations Strategy to maintain peace and order within and around the vicinity of schools.

Upon invitations by school authorities, he said the PNP may conduct inspections of dormitories and schools.

Other police efforts are establishing task units to address bullying in schools, intelligence and information gathering against kidnappings in schools, presence of improvised explosive devices, and other efforts against threats as feared by the public.

He said around 29 million students across the country in various grade levels are expected to troop to schools for simultaneous opening of classes in both public and private learning institutions.

He said policemen are also instructed to conduct foot and mobile patrolling in the vicinity of schools and would be on the lookout for drug traffickers, muggers, and violent street gangs that may infiltrate the ranks of students.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070866

PAF allots P25-M for repairs of aircraft propellers

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): PAF allots P25-M for repairs of aircraft propellers



The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Bids and Awards Committee, has allocated the sum of PHP25,078,000 for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the repair and maintenance of the propeller blades of two of its two Airbus Military C-295 medium transport aircraft.

The spares are intended for C-295 medium aircraft tail numbers 140 and 142.

Submission of bids is scheduled for June 7, 9:15 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room of Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

"Prospective bidders should have an experience in a similar project within the last five years," said PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair, Brig. Gen. Carlo Bueno N. Buena, in the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System Tuesday.

The PAF has three C-295 in its inventory. All three are assigned to the 220th Airlift Wing which is based in Mactan, Cebu. All three planes are worth PHP5.3 billion.

"The PAF reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders," he added.

The Airbus Military C-295 is a new generation, very robust and reliable, highly versatile tactical airlifter able to carry up to nine tonnes of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt /480 km/h.

Fitted with retractable landing gear and a pressurized cabin, it can cruise at altitudes up to 25,000 ft, while retaining remarkable short take-off and landing performance from unprepared short, soft and rough airstrips, as well as low-level flight characteristics.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070856

Japan will support PH security needs: envoy

From the Philippine News Agency (May 28, 2019): Japan will support PH security needs: envoy

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose Laurel V.
The Philippines can rely on Japan, particularly in security, amid the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), an envoy said on Tuesday.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose Laurel V made this response when asked in a press conference at the Philippine embassy in Japan about the commitment the Philippines can get from Japan in terms of upholding the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

“Japan will support the Philippines in its needs particularly in security,” Laurel told the Filipino journalists who will cover President Rodrigo Duterte’s third trip to Japan since he assumed the presidency in 2016.

“So, Japan is a trading country. It survives on selling their manufactured goods to the world. They have to keep the shipping lanes open,” he added.

Laurel also cited Japan’s “intimate” relationship with the Philippines such that it provided the latter with 10 ships, jet planes, helicopters among others.

“Well you must remember that because we are very intimate friends, Japan greatly also depends on the Philippines,” Laurel said.

“Although let’s admit it, they created war during the 40’s, but they have paid for it. And they have --- and the complexities of the world has changed,” he added.

The ambassador described Japan as “a true friend with no conditions”.

Duterte left Manila Tuesday afternoon to attend Nikkei’s 25th International Conference on The Future of Asia in Tokyo.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1070935

LOOK: Honoring 17,000 fallen US, PH troops on Memorial Day

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 26, 2019): LOOK: Honoring 17,000 fallen US, PH troops on Memorial Day



Philippine and American flags stand side by side in front of crosses marking the graves of Filipino and US soldiers who fought and died in World War II. INQUIRER.NET / NEIL MERCADO

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States remembered more than 17,000 soldiers who died in World War II during Sunday’s Memorial Day rites at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City.

U.S. Embassy Charge d’Affaires John C. Law said that Memorial Day commemorates the sacrifices of soldiers who died in the war while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Memorial Day is when we remember those men and women who gave their lives in defense of our countries and defense of our freedom,” Law told INQUIRER.net following the celebration.

Among those in attendance were representatives from the US Embassy, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and several American and Filipino veterans.



US Embassy Chargè d’Affaires John Law delivers their Memorial Day message at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City on Sunday, May 26, 2019. INQUIRER.NET / NEIL MERCADO

The Philippine Marine Corps and the United States Marine Corps presented the colors followed by the offering of flowers by the US Embassy and the AFP.

The event was held at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Fort Bonifacio where 17,000 American and Filipino soldiers are buried.

“Here in Manila, we are so lucky because we have a site that commemorates the shared fight and the shared sacrifices of Americans and Filipinos and if you walk around the site, you will see Americans and Filipinos buried side by side,” Law said.

Aside from the graves, over 36,000 names of missing soldiers are also inscribed in the walls of a building inside the cemetery.

Visitors to the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City walk among the walls of the missing on Memorial Day, May 26, 2019. INQUIRER.NET / NEIL MERCADO

“On the walls you will see Americans and Filipino names as they fought together in spirit here. Today is the day when we remember and thank them for what they did,” Law said.

The AFP also showed its support towards the United States, noting that remembering the courage of the fallen troops is essential in reminding younger generations of past hardships.

“We are given the opportunity to glorify and celebrate their courage and to relive their memories so that future generations, they come to know and appreciate their selfless sacrifice,” said AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Salvador Mison.



The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is host to more than 17,000 remains of Filipino and American soldiers who died in World War II. INQUIRER.NET / NEIL MERCADO

“Despite the chaos and destruction that wars have caused, [we] came together as the community of nations strive for a better world to live in,” Mison added.

On Saturday, more than 200 volunteers placed American and Filipino flags on the graves of the fallen soldiers.

Memorial Day is an American holiday observed every fourth Monday of May.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/175591/look-honoring-17000-fallen-us-ph-troops-on-memorial-day

From communist rebels to Army men: 84 ex-NPAs get private rank

From the Business Mirror (May 27, 2019): From communist rebels to Army men: 84 ex-NPAs get private rank

AT least 84 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have joined the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and were given the rank of private following months of rigorous military training.

The new soldiers are among the 275 Army recruits, who graduated from two batches of candidate soldier courses administered by the Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division.

The 275 new soldiers, all with the rank of a private, are lumads, former members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit and former members of the NPA who have yielded to the government.

Capt. Regie H. Go, acting spokesman of the 4th ID, said the Army recruits officially joined the service following a joint closing ceremony late last week in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The new enlisted personnel went through grueling months of training administered by the 4th Division Training School (4DTS), which registered the military’s record-high number of former rebels as trainees.

Go, quoting Lt. Col. Jeff Villanueva, commander of the 4DTS, said that both classes forming the 275 new soldiers, entered the military training during the fourth quarter of last year and began their Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course in April this year.

One of the enlisted personnel whom Go identified through his alias as Rios, reportedly a former vice commander of the NPA operating in Mindanao, thanked the government for giving him and the other former rebels a chance to join the service.

“I have never regretted my decision to return to the folds of the law and so, I call on to those who are still in the mountains, there’s a better life waiting for you here and the NPA will never be able to give you a peaceful life,” Go quoted Rios as saying.

Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, commander of the 4th ID, welcomed the new members of the Diamond troopers.

“You are now officially soldiers, use the skills, knowledge and discipline which you have learned from DTS to protect our fellow Filipinos. Let us uphold our honor, patriotism and duty to our beloved country,” he told the new soldiers.

“I also congratulate the 4DTS for a job well done. Let us continue to produce world-class soldiers who have burning desires to fight for long-lasting peace in Mindanao,” he added.

Go said the 275 privates will be deployed to the different units of 4th ID in Mindanao.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/05/27/from-communist-rebels-to-army-men-84-ex-npas-get-private-rank/

US Pacific Air Forces chief boosts partnership with PAF

From the Manila Times (May 27, 2019): US Pacific Air Forces chief boosts partnership with PAF

US Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Commander Gen. Charles Brown Jr. traveled to the Philippines from May 15 to 17 to meet with senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

“Our relationship with the Philippines is one of our most enduring relationships in the Indo-Pacific region. It’s an honor to be here to be part of the friendship and cooperation between our two nations and our two air forces,” said Brown.

During his visit to Manila, Brown met with Chief of Staff of the AFP Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo to discuss increasing multilateral training opportunities between PACAF and AFP.
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“Enhanced engagement between our people and our forces benefits the entire region, and is grounded in personal relationships established during visits such as these,” shared Brown.

Commander of US Pacific Air Forces Gen. Charles Brown, Jr. (center) and Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez (right) receive arrival honors at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base.

After his office call with Madrigal, Brown met with the Commanding General of the PAF Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez at Villamor Air Base, where they participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of the Fallen Airmen and discussed building partner capacity in the Philippines.

“I commend the vision laid out by the PAF in their Flight Plan 2028,” said Brown. “We have the same vision of peace, security and friendship not just for today, but for tomorrow and the future ahead.”

Brown’s visit was his first to the Philippines since taking command of PACAF, the air component command of Indo-Pacific Command. The visit reinforces the US Air Force’s commitment to its bilateral relationship with the Philippine Air Force.

https://www.manilatimes.net/us-pacific-air-forces-chief-boosts-partnership-with-paf/560083/

“No definite date yet” on resumption of “Kathanor” profiling of IDPs in Marawi

From MindaNews (May 27, 2019): “No definite date yet” on resumption of “Kathanor” profiling of IDPs in Marawi

The influx of people pretending to be residents displaced by the Marawi Siege two years ago, led to the May 22 suspension of the ‘Kathanor’ profiling of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and there is “no definite date yet” on when it will resume, Assistant Secretary Felix Castro, field office manager of Task Force Bangon Marawi, said.

“Maraming fake IDP” (there are many fake IDPs), said Castro. He told MindaNews. they had to suspend on May 22 because during this last schedule for May 20 to 31, an unusually high number of people came to the field office even as they were not residents of Marawi City and specifically, not residents of the 250-hectare, 24-barangay Ground Zero, the main battle area between government forces and the IS-linked Maute Group in the five-month war from May to October 2017, now referred to as the Most Affected Area (MAA).

Assistant Secretary Felix Castro, field office manager of Task Force Bangon Marawi explains to MindaNews the reasons why Kathanor was suspended on May 22, 2019. MindaNews photo by GREGORIO BUENO

As of May 20, a total of 44,497 households of IDPs inside and outside the MAA had been profiled since October 7 last year, Castro said.

Of this number, 15,677 were from the MAA and 15,584 had been given 73,000 pesos assistance – 53,000 pesos for the transitory family support package and 20,000 for livelihood settlement grant — during the payout from April 6 to May 24. The 93 other profiled households in the MAA qualified to receive the assistance have not come to collect it.

Marawi residents displaced by the siege but outside the MAA can avail of 20,000 pesos livelihood assistance but the payout for this has yet to be scheduled, Castro said.

He said Kathanor was supposed to have ended in March and the May 20 to 31 schedule was supposedly only for those with grievances or complaints or those who were unable to meet the schedules for their barangays.

No problem until…

He said there was no problem in the profiling process from October 2018 to March 2019. The problem on fake IDPs, he said, surfaced during the May 20 to 31 schedule when “doon dumagsa” (people came in droves).

Marawi residents join the long queue at the provincial capitol compound in Marawi City for their biometrics to be taken by the staff of Task Force Bangon Marawi on 15 April 2019. MindaNews photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

Last Thursday, exactly two years from May 23, 2017 (Day 1 of the Marawi Siege), Housing Secretary and TFBM chair Eduardo del Rosario told a press conference at the 103rd Infantry Brigade that they “discovered there are so many individuals pretending to be Meranaw residents” and that a director of the National Bureau of Investigation himself overheard those falling in line instruct people on what to asnwer.

Del Rosario said they also discovered that some receipts presented as proof of residence, supposedly from utility firms such as light and water, and even police clearances were fake.

He said a barangay official was found to have colluded with a non-resident he certified to be a resident of his barangay, allegedly in exchange for half of what the non-resident would get.

Using biometrics, the Kathanor (organization) profiling collects data on the number, location and status of Marawi residents displaced by the siege, as well as those who have returned to Marawi, which TFBM then consolidates, to come up with an accurate database to improve its delivery of services and to help design better programs and projects for the recovery of Marawi.

Kathanor aims to correct the inaccuracies of the previous listings, which included multiple registrations, fraud and other irregularities in the IDP database.

From other towns

“With due respect, there are some reports na maraming nag-aapply even outside Marawi City or from different municipalities are also applying to undergo biometric process so alam naman natin bakit ganon maybe because of some gain,” Mayor Majul Gandamra said.

Gandamra was referring to the 73,000 pesos financial assistance given to owners and sharers of structures in Ground Zero who have already been profiled.

A Maranao boy’s fingerprints are scanned.for the Kathanor profiling of IDPS IN Marawi City on 15 April 2019. MindaNews photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

Del Rosario said the mayor and the barangay captains have to ensure that those given certificates by the barangay chairs are genuine residents of Marawi “otherwise magkaroon ng bloated figures ang Marawi City.”

“Nagiging rampant (it became rampant) so when I arrived yesterday here in Marawi, I was surprised that a kilometer away before reaching field office, there were so many vehicles and motercycle tricycles around. I was thinking celebration or some sort of a fiesta in MSU only to find out those people were lined up in our field office because they would like to be profiled (when) most of them are not real residents in Marawi City,’’ he said.

He stressed the need to conduct a re-validation so that those who submitted fake documents will be disallowed. He said the Department of Interior and Local Government will be calling on officials of the 24 barangays in the MAA and will suspend them if they issue certificates of residency to those who were not residents of their villages before the siege.

In trickles

Del Rosario said those already profiled, numbering some 45,000, came in trickles since October.

On the average, he said, around 200 to 300 submitted themselves to profiling but “just the other day, it’s thousands. Biglang dumaami ang dumating so we had to stop .” He said Castro coordinated with the mayor before suspending it.

He said the DILG as well as the Armed Forces of the Philippines “will help the barangay captains so that we can ensure that only credible residents will be profiled and be given assistance by the government.”

“Naging magnet kasi yung 20,000 and 53,000 pesos na ibinibigay pati kapitbahay nakatira sa ibang municipalities (The 20,000 and 53,000 pesos assistance being given became a magnet and so even those living in other municipalities) … all of a sudden they would like to be profiled also,” he said.

In ‘Kathanor,’ IDP household heads and members aged five and above are required to go to the venue together for the process; those aged 14 and above must present two government-issued IDs and they are supposed to register on dates scheduled for their barangays.

The TFBM listed eight steps in the process: get a priority number at the registration desk; attend the Kathanor orientation; submit two valid government ID at the Identification and Residency Screening Desk; complete handwashing for fingerprint readability; fingerprinting; photo-taking; interview with the heads of household; and return priority number and submit Kathanor form.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/05/no-definite-date-yet-on-resumption-of-kathanor-profiling-of-idps-in-marawi/

New facilities, curriculum to greet PMA cadets

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 28, 2019): New facilities, curriculum to greet PMA cadets

LONG GRAY LINE Members of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mabalasik” Class of 2019 join the long gray line of military officers who finished their training at the PMA, the country’s leading military training institution. —EV ESPIRITU

FORT DEL PILAR, BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Brand-new equipment, refurbished facilities and a revised curriculum will ensure that the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) continues to deliver quality education and training to future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Lt. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista, PMA superintendent, said.

In remarks during Sunday’s graduation of the PMA “Mabalasik” Class of 2019, Evangelista cited the newly renovated Regis Hall that, he said, would give relief to cadets now living in congested quarters.

The renovation that replaced the three-story hall named after the late Lt. Leopoldo Regis, topnotcher of PMA Class 1951, cost the government P335 million.

Quality education
Evangelista said the PMA established an electronic library and an online database for its faculty and cadets to efficiently use digitized collection of books and other reference materials.

The academy also upgraded its firing range by adding a simulated moving automated random target system and an arm simulation laboratory.

Apart from the new equipment and facility, the PMA also revised its curriculum to add a Bachelor of Science in National Security Management. The new program was inspired by the 2017 Marawi siege that claimed the lives of civilians and soldiers and destroyed property.

REUNION PMA valedictorian Dionne Mae Umalla reunites with her father, Reuben, during her graduation on Sunday. —EV ESPIRITU

“We will commit to do this (deliver quality education and training) to the next cadets as PMA continues to produce intervention measures to cope with the changing times,” Evangelista said.

Addressing the new PMA graduates, he said: “You are and should always be warriors of the people. The people expect a lot from you. Do not fail them.”

Challenge

On Monday, the AFP chief of staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., reminded the new PMA graduates to adhere to the honor code in facing challenges that would test their mettle.

“The unfolding chapter of their (PMA graduates’) career will be full of challenges that will test their mettle, as well as opportunities for further learning,” said Madrigal, a member of PMA Class 1985.

“From here onward, they will immerse in the communities and be given the chance to address the persisting problems and root causes of conflict in the country, many of which can change their perspective, present them with hard choices, and, in some cases, sacrifice their lives,” he said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1123869/new-facilities-curriculum-to-greet-pma-cadets

Don’t forget the ‘honor code,’ AFP chief tells new PMA grads

From the Business Mirror (May 28, 2019): Don’t forget the ‘honor code,’ AFP chief tells new PMA grads

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. welcomed into the ranks on Monday the 261 junior officers who graduated a day earlier from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

In a news statement, the chief of staff said he was confident that the PMA has prepared the new officers to be up for the challenge after four years of “life-defining and world-class training.”

“Being an alumnus myself, I am confident that the academy has prepared each one of them to be fleet-ready, field-ready and squadron-ready,” he said.

The 261, topped by a female cadet, graduated from the PMA on Sunday, with no less than President Duterte gracing the ceremony.

Madrigal said the “unfolding chapter” of the junior officers’ career “will be full of challenges that will test their mettle, as well as opportunities for further learning.”

“From here onward, they will immerse in the communities and be given the chance to address the persisting problems and root causes of conflict in the country, many of which can change their perspective, present them with hard choices, and, in some cases, sacrifice their lives,” he said.

As he welcomed the officers’ into the roster of the AFP, Madrigal said he was hoping that they will not forget the “Honor Code” and the character that was built upon them and “hold the trust long after they have left the long gray line.”

“Ultimately, in the face of the hardest of challenges to their life, dignity, and integrity, be guided by the academy’s core values of selfless service, honor, and excellence,” he said.

The junior officers will join the military’s three major armed services.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/05/28/dont-forget-the-honor-code-afp-chief-tells-new-pma-grads/

Fishers’ shelter built on Batanes Island

From the Manila Times (May 28, 2019): Fishers’ shelter built on Batanes Island

APARRI, Cagayan: The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)-Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) turned over to the Batanes provincial government on Monday a multi-purpose shelter in Mavulis Island, Itbayat for local fishing and not a Marine base as earlier reported.

The Mavulis Project handover ceremony was led by the AFP-Nolcom with Undersecretary Ricardo David Jr. of the Department of National Defense as guest of honor and speaker.

Mavulis, (also called Y’ami Island in textbooks) is the northernmost Batanes island, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Taiwan. It is uninhabited, but frequently visited by local fishers, most of whom are from Itbayat town.

The Mavulis Project was launched in March 2018 for the construction of building facilities, which were reportedly a Marines base to boost defense arrangements and discourage poachers from its fishing grounds.

Before the project, Nolcom officials reportedly said their presence was needed, thus the building work on Mavulis Island, and while the island was uninhabited, they were building a facility to guard the Philippine maritime domain against poaching during the fishing period.

Both the Philippine and Taiwan coast guard ships have confronted each other in the rich fishing waters in the Mavulis area where their exclusive economic zones overlap, and even nearly cut ties in 2013 after a Philippine vessel fired on a Taiwanese fishing boat, killing a fisher.

Both countries also have overlapping claims in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea), along with Brunei, China, Malaysia and Vietnam, that more than 20 years ago, Philippine defense officials said Taiwan proposed leasing the island as a gunnery range for its military. Taiwan reportedly even promised to donate a secondhand fighter as part of the deal. However, as Manila recognizes Beijing’s one-China policy, nothing came of the agreement.

According to Nolcom officials, the base will help monitor ships passing through the international trade route called Balintang Channel in northern Philippines. The channel is used by vessels crossing from the busy waterway of the South China Sea to the Pacific Ocean.

Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, former Nolcom spokesman, said the Mavulis Project would increase the presence of local fishers in the region, contributing to the protection of the Philippine marine resources and enhancing information gathering around the northern maritime area.

“The structure will serve as a multipurpose shelter for locals fishing in the vicinity and double up as shelter for troops visiting the island to guard our maritime domain in that isolated area during the poaching season,” he stressed.

https://www.manilatimes.net/fishers-shelter-built-on-batanes-island/560766/