Manhunt on vs. ‘NPA arsonists’ in Surigao

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13, 2021): Manhunt on vs. ‘NPA arsonists’ in Surigao (By Alexander Lopez)

NPA ATROCITY. Communist New People’s Army rebels torched some PHP5 million worth of construction equipment on Monday (April 12, 2021) in Barangay Mapawa, Surigao City. The equipment belongs to a company constructing a farm-to-market road in the area. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

A police and military manhunt operation has been ordered against a band of communist terrorists responsible for burning PHP5-million worth of construction equipment in Surigao City on April 12.

In a statement Tuesday, the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) said an undetermined number of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels torched a backhoe, a concrete mixer truck, and a generator at a construction site in Barangay Mapawa, Surigao City.

“The construction company that owns the equipment is working for the completion of a farm-to-market road (FMR) project in the area," said Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., PRO-13 director.

Caramat said the Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (SDNPMFC) and the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) are in pursuit of the perpetrators as of Tuesday morning.

“We eyed extortion behind the attack. The desperate NPA terrorists do not care for the local folks who are supposed to benefit from the road connecting the community to market centers,” he said.

He said the initial investigation indicated that the NPA's Guerilla Front 16B members were involved, even as he condemned the NPA for destroying civilian properties.

The incident, he said, "ruining the hopes of the ordinary residents, especially the farmers in the area who are expecting the completion" of the farm-to-market road.

“The long arm of the law will capture the enemies of the state and will be held accountable for the commission of crimes and illegal activities they committed,” he said.

The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136558

Dawlah Islamiya leader killed, 9 others wounded in Marawi clas

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13, 2021): Dawlah Islamiya leader killed, 9 others wounded in Marawi clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr)

KILLED. Usop Nasif, a leader of the ISIS-linked Dawlah Islamiya, was killed in a clash with government troops Monday (April 12, 2021) in Barangay Guimba, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. Nasif's wife was among the nine other people who were wounded during the clash that lasted for about 30 minutes. (Photo courtesy of Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

A leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-linked Dawlah Islamiya (DI) was killed while nine others, including eight lawmen, were wounded in a firefight in Marawi City, military officials announced Tuesday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), identified the slain DI leader as Usop Nasif alias Abu Asraf, who was killed in a firefight Monday in Barangay Guimba, Marawi City.

Vinluan said the firefight ensued and lasted for about 30 minutes after Nasif and his followers opened fire when they noticed the presence of soldiers and policemen approaching their hideout.

Vinluan said the troops launched a law enforcement operation after they received a report on the presence of Nasif and his followers in Barangay Guimba.

He said Nasif was rushed to Amai Pakpak Medical Center but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo, 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, said Nasif’s wife, Almaira Panduma, who was wounded, was also rushed to the same hospital for treatment.

The eight troopers who were wounded during the clash include seven policemen and a soldier, whose identities were withheld pending notification of their next of kin.

Cuerpo said Nasif is the primary suspect in the killing of three soldiers on Jan. 14 this year in the boundary of Poona Piagapo and Pantao Ragat towns in Lanao del Norte.

Cuerpo said Nasif was also implicated in the killing of some civilians who failed to give in to their extortion demands.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Joint Task Force ZamPeLan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao provinces) commended the troops for the successful neutralization of the notorious DI leader.

“We vow to remain relentless against the terrorist groups to sustain the peace and progress that we have attained in our area of responsibility,” Ponio said. “We also urge the public to continue to cooperate and report any threat in their locality for us to effectively perform our mandate.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136560

2 hurt in Basilan roadside bombing

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13, 2021): 2 hurt in Basilan roadside bombing (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

BASILAN BLAST. Two people, a soldier and a civilian, were wounded in a roadside bombing on Monday (April 12, 2021) in Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan province. Photo shows the bomb parts and other materials the troops recovered at the roadside and nearby hut. (Photo courtesy of the Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

Two persons, including a soldier, were wounded in a roadside bombing perpetrated by suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in the hinterlands of Basilan province, military officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the incident happened around 6:25 a.m. Monday in Sitio Bohe Bekew, Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

Vinluan said troops from the 12th Division Reconnaissance Company were conducting mobile patrol in Sitio Bohe Bekew when they accidentally tripped an improvised explosive device (IED) fashioned out as a landmine “which resulted in the wounding of one of our valiant soldiers and one civilian.”

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, said the two were immediately given first aid and rushed to a hospital in Lamitan City for further medical treatment.

“The victims are now in stable condition,” Gobway said.

He said troops have been deployed to track down the ASG bandits behind the roadside bombing.

He said that intelligence monitoring is bolstered to avert the recurrence of such a tragic event.

Vinluan condemned the horrendous act of the ASG bandits as he vowed to exert all efforts to prevent lawless elements from wreaking havoc in peaceful communities and victimizing soldiers and innocent civilians.

“The Abu Sayyaf Group tends to conduct desperate attacks since their weakened manpower and capability can no longer withstand the military’s all-out offensives. They engage in inhumane attacks to gain popularity and to show off their potentials. So, I urge the peace-loving people of Basilan to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person or object in their vicinity. Do not allow the evil-doers to destroy the peace and tranquility in your respective community,” Vinluan added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136563

Significance of April 15 in PH history cited

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2021): Significance of April 15 in PH history cited (By Severino Samonte)

PNA file photo

Did you know that April 15 is replete with many significant events in Philippine history, particularly during the Spanish, American and Japanese occupations, or even after the country gained complete independence in 1946?

For instance, a glance at the April 15 entries in the 1998 Centennial Edition of the Philippine Almanac published in September 1998 by Filway Marketing Inc. of Hector O. Tagaysay and the Children's Communication Center, then headed by now National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, would show that on this date in 1948, President Manuel A. Roxas, the fifth president of the Philippines (1946-1948), died of a heart attack while speaking during a visit to the then Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

It was in honor of Roxas that the then capital town of Capiz province was renamed Roxas City under Republic Act No. 603 on April 11, 1951. Roxas, who was born in Capiz on Jan. 1, 1892, took his oath as president on July 4, 1946.

On April 15, 1947, the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) (now Philippine Red Cross) was established through R.A. No. 95. Named as its first head was Mrs. Aurora Aragon Quezon, widow of the first Philippine Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon. Before World II, PNRC was just a branch of the United States Red Cross, an international organization that helps people worldwide during disasters and calamities.

On the same date (April 15) in 1962, then Manila City Mayor Arsenio H. Lacson died of a heart attack. He was honored by the city government with the renaming after him of Plaza Goiti in Sta. Cruz district, the Lacson Underpass in Quiapo, and the former Gov. Forbes St. in Sampaloc as A. H. Lacson Ave.

On April 15, 1975, the Kabataang Barangay (KB), a nationwide youth organization was created by the administration of then President Ferdinand E. Marcos. All Filipinos aged 15 to 21 years were automatic members of this body.

Its top officials were also ex-officio members of the city and municipal councils. The KB was abolished after Marcos was deposed in February 1986.

Much earlier, during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, the first vaccine against smallpox was brought to the Philippines by a Spanish expedition led by Dr. Francisco Xavier Balmis.

He started a smallpox vaccination program which made the vaccines available throughout the country by 1808 and helped reduce the mortality rate during subsequent epidemics

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136873

Año to submit shortlist of candidates for PNP chief April 30

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2021): Año to submit shortlist of candidates for PNP chief April 30 (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año (File photo)

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday said he will submit the names of three ranking officials as candidates for the next chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) by the end of April.

"Wala pa akong recommendation. Sa last week pa ng April ako mag submit kay PRRD (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte). Three names pa din. (I have no recommendation yet. I will be submitting a list by the last week of April to President Rodrigo R. Duterte. There will be three names in it)," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday.

The DILG chief declined to give the possible names on his list but observers said these could be most likely the ranking officers of the PNP command group who are known for their seniority and competence.

PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas will retire from the service on May 8.

Other members of the PNP command group include Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, deputy chief for administration; Lt. Gen. Cesar Hawthorne Binag and Lt. Gen. Joselito Vera Cruz, chief of the directorial staff.

Binag, however, will retire from the service on April 24 while Eleazar will retire on November 13.

Eleazar, Binag and Sinas belong to the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987.

Año formally returned to work on Friday after going on a three-month medical leave.

He started his medical leave on January 11 this year to fully recover from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

He extended his medical leave on February 2 and made another extension in March.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136962

PH reaffirms 'strong commitment' vs. chemical weapons threats

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15, 2021): PH reaffirms 'strong commitment' vs. chemical weapons threats

COMMITMENT VS. CHEMICAL WEAPONS. Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya (left) reaffirms to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) the Philippines’ strong commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, notably chemical weapons, on April 9, 2021. Malaya turned over the Philippine government’s contribution of USD15,000 or approximately PHP726,000 to the Trust Fund for a Center for Chemistry and Technology. (Photo courtesy of OPCW)

Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya reaffirmed to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) the Philippines’ strong commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, notably chemical weapons through a ceremonial signing and exchange of letters.

Malaya turned over the Philippine government’s contribution of USD15,000 or approximately PHP726,000 to the Trust Fund for a Center for Chemistry and Technology on April 9.

“I commend the work of the OPCW and its vision to establish the ChemTech Centre, which aims to strengthen the Organisation’s capability against new and emerging chemical weapons threats and support capacity building among OPCW Member States,” Malaya said in a news release on Thursday.

Director-General Fernando Arias, representing OPCW, thanked the Philippine government and noted that “the Philippine contribution advances the establishment of the ChemTech Centre which will be a centerpiece for research, analysis, and training for all Member States”.

The Center is currently planned to become operational at the end of 2022.

As the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, the OPCW, with its 193 Member States, oversees the global endeavor to permanently eliminate chemical weapons.

Since the Convention’s entry into force in 1997, it is the most successful disarmament treaty eliminating an entire class of weapons of mass destruction.

Over 98 percent of all declared chemical weapon stockpiles have been destroyed under OPCW verification. For its extensive efforts in eliminating chemical weapons, the OPCW received the 2013 Nobel Peace Prize.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136937

Let PRRD address WPS issue ‘privately’

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15, 2021): Let PRRD address WPS issue ‘privately’ (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

NTF-WPS photo

Malacañang on Thursday asked the public to let President Rodrigo Duterte settle in a private manner the issue of China’s supposed incursions into the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a virtual presser, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said diplomatic negotiations fall under the list of exceptions to Executive Order (EO) 2, also known as the Freedom of Information.

“Kung anuman ang ginagawa ng Presidente, hayaan na nating gawin niya ‘yun sa isang pribadong pamamaraan dahil hindi naman po dapat inaanunsiyo sa publiko kung ano ‘yung mga diplomatic initiatives at hakbang na ginagawa ng Pangulo (Whatever steps the President is taking, let him do it privately because it is not necessary to announce in public the diplomatic initiatives and other steps the President is doing),” Roque said.

On Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs filed two diplomatic notes against China amid the prolonged presence of its vessels in WPS despite the Philippines’ repeated demands to withdraw its ships.

The first diplomatic note counts as the daily protest so long as there are Chinese boats in and around Julian Felipe Reed in WPS, and the second is on the dispersal of Chinese ships to other parts of Philippine maritime zones.

Roque on Wednesday said the Philippines has stepped up its presence in WPS to protect Filipino fishermen and the marine resources.

China’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday appealed to the Philippine government to stop “hyping up” the WPS issue and “producing a negative impact on bilateral relations and peace and stability” in the disputed sea.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian, in a press briefing on April 13, maintained that China sought “friendly consultations” to “jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.”

In his latest statement, Roque said the presence of Chinese vessels in WPS is a “statement of fact.”

Roque, however, expressed optimism that China would withdraw all of its ships in WPS, considering that it is the Philippines’ “friend.”

He added that the Philippines, as the current country coordinator for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-China Dialogue Relations, remains committed to work for the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct (COC) in WPS which envisions a set of regional rules to avoid confrontation in the contested waters.

“Hindi ko po masasabi iyan pero inaasahan po natin na ‘yung malapit na pagkakaibigan natin, magiging dahilan kung bakit sila ay aalis ng maaga kaysa nang mas matagal (I could not say when will the ships be withdrawn but we expect them to pull out its vessels earlier than expected because of our friendship),” he said.

Roque said he is also confident that Duterte would make a “right” decision.

“The President must make the right decision no matter what. So let’s leave the President to his devices. Napakita naman po niya na (He’s able to prove that) so far, in the past five years of his administration, we have moved from a position of antagonism with China to a position of friendship,” he said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday said it will continue the conduct of air and naval patrols of WPS to provide a firm basis for diplomatic protests filed by the country due to continued Chinese incursions in the area.

The DFA’s latest filing of diplomatic protests against China came following reports that around 240 Chinese vessels were sighted in the Julian Felipe Reef on April 11.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136881

Sobejana gets 4th star as AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): Sobejana gets 4th star as AFP chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

4-STAR GENERAL. DND Undersecretary Cesar Yano (left) leads the donning ceremony for AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (right) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday (April 14, 2021). President Rodrigo Duterte approved the promotion of Sobejana to the rank of General effective April 8 following the approval of the Commission on Appointments last March 24. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, was formally donned with his fourth star on Wednesday, making him the highest-ranking military officer in the country.

Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary Cesar Yano, representing Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, presided over the donning of rank ceremony for Sobejana at the DND Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City,

“While these stars firmly resting on my shoulders are a testament to my personal achievements, it is still a strong reminder to everyone that they should never be conscious of their positions but should remain humble and thankful, and to always exercise due prudence and diligence in the discharge of their respective duties and responsibilities," Sobejana said.

Traditional military honors were subsequently accorded to Sobejana at the AFP General Headquarters canopy area.

Minimum health protocols were strictly observed during the activities in compliance with safety measures amid the coronavirus pandemic.

President Rodrigo Duterte approved the promotion of Sobejana to the rank of General effective April 8, 2021 following the approval of the Commission on Appointments last March 24.

“In the spirit of nation-building, we in the AFP, as the protectors of the dreams and aspirations of our fellow Filipinos, shall rise above ourselves so that the success that we may achieve today will not only benefit our organization, but more so, the whole Filipino nation,” Sobejana said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136796

PH steps up presence in West Philippine Sea: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): PH steps up presence in West Philippine Sea: Palace (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos) 

PH PRESENCE AT WPS. A photo taken on April 11, 2021 shows 136 Chinese maritime militia at the vicinity of Burgos (Gaven) Reef in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Malacañang said on Wednesday (April 14) said the Philippines has stepped up its presence in the WPS amid China’s incursions into the country’s exclusive economic zone. (NTF-WPS photo)

The Philippines has stepped up its presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid China’s incursions into the country’s exclusive economic zone, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

“The presence of Philippine maritime security and law enforcement forces have been stepped up in the municipality of Kalayaan to protect Filipino fishermen and the marine resources,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press statement.

Roque issued the statement the same day as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) once again filed two diplomatic notes against China after 200 Chinese vessels were spotted in the Julian Felipe Reef on April 11.

The first diplomatic protest counts as the daily protest as long as there are Chinese ships in and around Julian Felipe Reef and the second is on the dispersal of Chinese vessels to other parts of Philippine maritime zones.

Apart from the filing of diplomatic protests, the DFA also summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian over the current situation in Julian Felipe Reef, Roque said.

The Philippines first lodged a note verbale over the incident in Julian Felipe Reef on March 21 after around 200 Chinese vessels were spotted moored in line formation in the area. The number reportedly decreased to 44 ships based on a March 30 patrol by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Roque likewise reiterated that President Rodrigo Duterte, during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September last year, stressed the importance of the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s (PCA) ruling on the Philippines’ petition against China’s sweeping claims over the contested South China Sea.

He added that the National Task Force on West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) is “consistent” in invoking Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights over WPS.

On July 12, 2016, the PCA in the Hague, Netherlands ruled In favor of the Philippines after it invalidated China’s claim to nearly the entire SCS.

Avoid escalating tensions

During his commentary show “Counterpoint” on Wednesday, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo told journalists to avoid going to the WPS, saying any activity in the contested waters could only escalate tensions between the Philippines and China.

Panelo issued the statement after the news team of ABS-CBN reporter Chiara Zambrano earlier received a radio message from a ship of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) after trying to make its way to Ayungin Shoal.

Panelo slammed Zambrano for “exaggerating” news about the WPS issue.

“Ito ho, mahilig talaga itong ine-exaggerate nito ang lahat nang nakikita niyang balita. ‘Yung kaniyang pagbabalita, may kasamang pambanat sa gobyerno (She is fond of exaggerating every issue. Her style of reporting is when she delivers news, she criticizes the government),” he said.

Zambrano’s news team was recently aboard a local civilian vessel to cover the situation of Filipino fishermen amid the presence of Chinese vessels in the Julian Felipe Reef.

However, Zambrano’s team was reportedly driven away by CCG while onboard a civilian boat four miles away from Ayungin Shoal.

According to the ABS-CBN report, the Filipino captain decided to steer the boat away from the shoal but the CCG vessel “accelerated its speed and started to chase” the civilian ship and followed “its path home to mainland Palawan for an hour.”

Reminding media to be more prudent, Panelo said journalists could still make a story about Filipino fishermen without visiting WPS.

He said going to the disputed sea could only ignite unwanted hostilities between China and the Philippines.

“Kumbaga, maging maingat na tayo. There are many ways naman para malaman (Let us be careful. There are many ways to know [the situation of the Filipino fishermen]),” Panelo said. “Hindi na kailangan na kayo’y pumunta sa lugar na nagkakairingan. Tensyonado na nga, dadagdagan niyo pa (There’s no need to go to the disputed sea. You would just escalate the tension there).”

On April 9, the AFP launched a probe into the reported harassment of a Filipino civilian vessel by CCG.

The AFP also asked Filipino journalists to “exercise prudence in the course of their job,” but the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said Zambrano’s team should not be blamed for being harassed.

Panelo defended the AFP, saying Zambrano and her team should have avoided the contested WPS, considering that there is ongoing tension in the area.

“The point I’m saying is that alam na natin na nagkakaroon na ng tensiyon doon, eh bakit pa natin dadagdagan. Kumbaga we’re creating situation na papa-reactin pa natin. Kaya hinabol (The point I’m saying is we know that there’s already a tension there, so why would we add more tension? We’re just creating situation that would make China react against us. That’s why they went after them),” he said.

Panelo said the government is trying to resolve the issue in WPS without causing hostilities.

“Ayaw na nga natin ng hostilities. Kung puwedeng mapag-usapan iyan sa lamesa ng diplomatikong pamamaraan, yun ang gawin natin (We do not want to create hostilities. If we can address it through diplomatic approach, that’s what we will do),” he said.

The AFP on Wednesday said it will continue the conduct of air and naval patrols off WPS to provide a firm basis for diplomatic protests filed by the Philippines due to continued Chinese incursions in the area.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136801

Swarming of Chinese ships in WPS detrimental to region's security

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): Swarming of Chinese ships in WPS detrimental to region's security (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PLAN Corvette class warship at Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reef spotted during a sovereignty patrol on April 11. 2021 (NTF WPS photo)

Chinese ships continue to swarm the West Philippine Sea that is detrimental to the peace and security of the region, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF WPS) said in a statement Tuesday.

"The continuous swarming of Chinese vessels poses a threat to the safety of navigation, the safety of life at sea, and impedes the exclusive right of Filipinos to benefit from the marine wealth in the EEZ," the NTF WPS said, reiterating the Philippine government’s demand for China to withdraw all its ships in the West Philippine Sea.

This, after an April 11 sovereignty patrol observed an estimated 240 Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessels lingering in the area.

Citing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command report, the CMM vessels were reported in the territorial waters of the Municipality of Kalayaan, Palawan, and the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), with 136 militia vessels spotted off Burgos (Gaven) Reefs; nine at Julian Felipe (Whitsun) Reef; 65 off Chigua (McKennan) Reef, six (6) off Panganiban (Mischief) Reef; three off Zamora (Subi) Reef; four off Pag-asa (Thitu) Island; one off Likas (West York) Island; five off Kota (Loaita) Island; and 11 at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.

Also spotted during the April 11 sovereignty patrol were the following People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels: two Houbei class missile warships off Panganiban Reef; a corvette-class warship off Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reef; and a Navy tugboat at Zamora Reef.

Some two CCG vessels were also seen in the territorial sea off Pag-asa Island.

Additional monitoring by the AFP reported two PLAN, three CCG, and 10 CMM vessels off Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough) Shoal.



Some 136 Chinese Maritime Militia vessels spotted in the vicinity of Gaven Reef on April 11, 2021 (NTF WPS photo)

Militarization

All these warships of the PLA Navy contribute to the militarization of the area.

It added that the combined presence of PLAN warships, CCG and CMM off Kalayaan and the Philippine EEZ is prejudicial to the peace and security of the region.

"Finally, the NTF WPS views with serious alarm the recent reports that a civilian vessel carrying a local news crew conducting interviews of Filipino fishermen was followed and shadowed by a CCG vessel and an armed Houbei class missile warship as it traveled from the vicinity of Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal to the coast of Palawan. The incident is now under investigation," NTF WPS said.

It added that ships, which are now scattered off Pagkakaisa (Union) Banks and Pag-asa Island, are estimated to be 60 meters in length.

"A minimum estimate that each can catch one ton of fish amounts to a conservative total of 240,000 kilos of fish illegally taken from Philippine waters every single day that the massed Chinese fishing vessels remain in the West Philippine Sea,” the statement read.

These acts, it added, fall under illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF).



Some three Chinese fishermen harvest giant clams in the vicinity of Pagasa Islands on March 28, 2021. (NTF WPS photo)

In an earlier patrol by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Chinese poachers were likewise spotted illegally collecting giant clams in the vicinity of the Pag-asa Island.

The report said the Chinese poachers immediately left when approached by the PCG.

NTF WPS said the harvesting of giant clams is a blatant violation of Philippine fisheries and wildlife laws, and the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

"In keeping with its role as a development partner, China should take the Philippine representations seriously and respect Philippine sovereignty, rights, and interests in consonance with the further strengthening of Philippine-China bilateral relations," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136725

DFA to file anew diplomatic protest over Chinese vessels in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): DFA to file anew diplomatic protest over Chinese vessels in WPS (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will file anew another diplomatic protest against China amid reports that some 240 Chinese vessels were sighted in the Julian Felipe Reef on April 11, indicating its continued presence in the area despite repeated demands from the Philippines to withdraw its ships.

Over Twitter, DFA Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. announced Wednesday the order to fire another diplomatic note.

Asked for details, the DFA said the agency is verifying reports and checking with facts on the ground to ensure the protest is worded accordingly.

The latest development came two days after the government summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian over the swarming of Chinese ships, believed to be militias, in the area that is within the country's exclusive economic zone.

In an update Wednesday afternoon, the DFA said it filed two diplomatic notes on April 14, one counts as the daily protest as long as there are Chinese ships in and around Julian Felipe Reef and the second is on the dispersal/displacement of Chinese ships to other parts of Philippine maritime zones.

The agency first lodged a note verbale over the amassing in Julian Felipe Reef on March 21 after some 200 Chinese vessels were spotted moored in line formation in the area. The number reportedly decreased to 44 ships based on a March 30 patrol by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

READ: Swarming of Chinese ships in WPS detrimental to region's security

The tiff intensified as the vessels continued to linger in the area, prompting the DFA to call out on April 5 the Chinese Embassy's "blatant falsehoods" such as claims of adverse weather conditions when there were none. It then vowed to blast diplomatic protests "for every day of delay" to pull out their ships.

In a forum titled "Maintaining a Rules-Based Maritime Order", Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute (ADRi) president Dindo Manhit said these Chinese incursions "has been strongly condemned not only by the Philippine government, but by the full spectrum of Philippine society".

"The persistent and deliberate swarming maneuverings of their maritime militia vessels in Philippine waters reveals China’s expansionist ambitions and renders false their pronouncements to safeguard peace and stability in the region. They continue to instigate deceptive rhetoric and acts that undermine the precepts of peaceful resolution and stability in the region," he said.

Liz Derr, founder and CEO of Simularity, said the country's maritime law enforcement authorities must frequent patrols to further protect the features and fishing grounds in the Philippine EEZ.

"Then, I recommend 'occupying', even in a token way, the unoccupied features in the Philippine EEZ. Let’s not let them take any more," she said during the forum.

Simularity is a US-based geospatial software firm that uses an artificial intelligence-powered system to detect any relevant anomalies in the South China Sea, such as new human activity, potentially illegal fishing, incursions into the EEZs of the countries in the area, fortification and construction, dredging, and reclamation.

China's Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, reiterates its position on the area as its bats for "friendly consultations" to "jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea."

"We have noticed that President Duterte recently said that the Philippines will continue to resolve the issue peacefully through diplomatic channel. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi reached consensus with Foreign Secretary Locsin on the proper settlement of the relevant dispute during the latter's visit to China recently," Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said in a press briefing on April 13.

"We hope certain Philippine officials can stop hyping up the issue and avoid producing a negative impact on bilateral relations and peace and stability in the South China Sea," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136717

House panels OK reports on amnesty resolutions for rebel groups

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): House panels OK reports on amnesty resolutions for rebel groups (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

Two House of Representatives' panels on Wednesday approved the committee reports on four concurrent resolutions granting amnesty to members of four major rebel groups.

In a joint hearing, the House Committees on Justice and on National Defense and Security, chaired by Leyte Rep. Vicente Veloso III and Iloilo Rep. Raul Tupas, respectively, approved the committee reports on House Concurrent Resolutions 12, 13, 14, and 15.

The resolutions, authored by Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, concur with Proclamation Nos. 1090, 1091, 1092, and 1093, all dated Feb. 5, 2021, granting amnesty to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), and former rebels of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), who have committed crimes punishable under Act No. 3815 or the Revised Penal Code, and special penal laws in furtherance of their political beliefs.

Tupas said the grant of amnesty to former rebels is an integral component of the government’s comprehensive peace efforts.

“As the joint committees approve the committee reports for the House Concurrent Resolutions 12, 13 14 and 15, we have taken firm steps in concretizing the peace agenda. We have affirmed the peace process and expressed support to the government’s effort in attaining a just and hopefully sustainable peace for the Filipino people,” Tupas said in his opening remarks.

Velasco said the amnesty program would be a huge step toward achieving just and lasting peace in the country and giving former rebels a path back into civilian life.

“The amnesty will also provide a meaningful and complete transformation and assimilation of the MILF decommissioned combatants into peaceful and progressive lives towards national reconciliation and healing in the Bangsamoro,” Velasco said.

Velasco said the granting of amnesty is proof of the government’s sincerity and determination to attain sustainable peace in the country.

“Both Houses of Congress recognize that transforming MNLF members from armed combatants to productive citizens and peace partners is necessary to achieve the paramount ends of the peace process—national unity, solidarity and progress for all Filipinos,” he said.

In his proclamations, President Rodrigo Duterte said the government’s peace policy is to nurture a climate conducive for peace, as well as to implement programs for reconciliation and reintegration of rebels into mainstream society.

“There is a need for the government to act on former combatants request for the grant of amnesty so that they may live in peace in the pursuit of productive endeavors without prejudice to any legal arrangement that may result from a negotiated settlement which the government is pursuing with the various rebel and insurgent groups,” the proclamations read.

According to the presidential proclamations, the grant of amnesty in favor of the former rebels will “promote an atmosphere conducive to the attainment of a just, comprehensive, and enduring equanimity.”

Granting amnesty is also in line with the government’s call for peace, unity, and reconciliation to bring closure to past enmity, rancor, and bitterness that has stymied lasting amity among Filipinos, the proclamations said.

The amnesty will not be granted to those who have been proscribed or changed under the Human Security Act of 2007 or Republic Act 9372 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or RA 11479.

The proclamations note that the crimes committed in pursuit of a political belief include “acts and omissions performed or undertaken as part of a plan, program of action or strategy decided by the rebel leadership to overthrow and replace the National Government, any of its political subdivisions, or duly constituted authority, with or without the use of arms.”

The amnesty granted shall not cover kidnap for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, and other crimes committed against chastity as defined in the amended Revised Penal Code, crimes committed for personal ends, violation of Comprehensive Dangerous Act of 2002 or RA 9165, and grave violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949.

Other crimes not covered by Duterte’s amnesty are those identified by the United Nations that can never be amnestied such as genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, enforced disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights.

If granted amnesty, former rebels will be able to restore their civil or political rights suspended or lost by virtue of criminal conviction, based on the proclamations.

The amnesty will also extinguish any criminal liability for acts committed in pursuit of political beliefs, without prejudice to the grantee’s civil liability for injuries or damages caused to private persons whose right to be indemnified is fully recognized.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136738

WPS patrols info to back PH diplomatic protests: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14, 2021): WPS patrols info to back PH diplomatic protests: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said it will continue the conduct of air and naval patrols off the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to provide a firm basis for diplomatic protests filed by the country due to continued Chinese incursions in the area.

"Hindi rin po titigil ang inyong Armed Forces sa ating ginagawang pagpapatrol, ang mga ulat na ating ginagawa upang sa ganun ay lagi pong may bagong data ang ating DND (Department of National Defense) at ating DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) upang sa ganun ay meron po tayong mga pagbabasehan kung ano mang diplomatic protest na kailangang gawin (The Armed Forces will not stop its patrolling and sending of reports so that there is always new data for the DND and DFA to base their diplomatic protests)," AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a radio interview.

Arevalo added that information from patrols will also keep the country's allies informed regarding the issue.

"(Para) sa mga allied nations na makita nila ang development dito sa Pilipinas, at sa katunayan yun nga pong development na yan ay nag-trigger ng mga reaction na favorable sa Pilipinas buhat sa Amerika, sa ibang mga bansa kagaya ng Japan, Australia, Canada at iba pa (This is for the allied nations to see the development here in the Philippines. In fact, this development has already triggered reactions from the United States and other countries like Japan, Australia, Canada and others that are favorable to the Philippines)," he added.

He said they are now coordinating with other government agencies capable of conducting maritime patrols like the Department of Transportation which has jurisdiction over the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Maritime Group of the Philippine National Police to a "limited extent".

"Kung magpapatrolya man po tayo ika nga, hindi sya indibidwal, hindi siya unscheduled by agency, mas mabuti po ang ating gagawin ay coordinated na po yung ating patrols (If we will do patrols, this will not be on an individual basis or unscheduled by agency. It would be better if our patrols would be coordinated)," he said.

He also said they are now planning to include media members in patrol activities for them to "see for themselves" the developments in the disputed waters.

On Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it will file anew another diplomatic protest against China amid reports that some 240 Chinese vessels were sighted in the Julian Felipe Reef on April 11, indicating its continued presence in the area despite repeated demands from the Philippines to withdraw its ships.

The DFA's move came just two days after it summoned Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian over the swarming of Chinese ships, believed to be militias, in the area that is within the country's exclusive economic zone.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136735

DFA summons Chinese envoy; demands anew ships' withdrawal in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13, 2021): DFA summons Chinese envoy; demands anew ships' withdrawal in WPS (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Photo courtesy of AFP

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian on Monday to express "utmost displeasure" over the presence of Chinese vessels off the Julian Felipe Reef.

"[T]he DFA reiterated the firm demand of the Philippines that China ensures the immediate departure of all its vessels from the area of Julian Felipe Reef and other maritime zones of the Philippines," it said in a statement on Tuesday.

DFA Acting Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso told Huang that Julian Felipe Reef lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and that the Chinese vessels around the feature are a "source of regional tension."

The official also said the July 2016 Award in the South China Sea Arbitration ruled that claims to historic rights, or other sovereign rights or jurisdiction that exceed the geographic and substantive limits of maritime entitlements under UNCLOS, are without lawful effect.

On the previous untoward statements of the Chinese embassy spokesperson on Defense Secretary Lorenzana, Buensuceso reminded the Chinese side of proper decorum and manners in the conduct of their duties as guests of the Philippines.

"Both sides affirmed the use of peaceful settlement of disputes in addressing their differences on the South China Sea/West Philippines issue," the DFA said.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said there are still nine Chinese ships left in the area.

'Tradition yields to law'

The Chinese side has insisted that the Julian Felipe Reef or what it calls Niu'e Reef is part of its territory, adding the reef and its adjacent waters are traditional fishing grounds for Chinese fishermen.

In previous Chinese Foreign Ministry statements, it also said China has "historical rights in the South China Sea."

In a separate tweet, Locsin said tradition yields to law and that the law on the matter is the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

"There are a little over a dozen left. Come, come, time to go. As I said, while it may well be traditional fishing grounds, tradition yields to law and the law on the matter are UNCLOS and The Arbitral Award and the common rules of statutory construction," he said.

Locsin also said these incursions achieve nothing in law as fishing is not an act of possession nor a claim of ownership.

"Also that it is a goddamned distraction from the beneficial potential of the good relations China and the Philippines have built under PRRD (President Rodrigo Duterte) and that these incursions achieve nothing in law because, e.g., fishing is not an act of possession nor a claim of ownership; fishing is just fishing and even if you take your damned time fishing in the same spot it is still only what you claim it is—fishing," he said.

"Our partnership has so much potential not just for our mutual but even more for the benefit of Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). What a waste of great opportunities for good. Let’s give it a rest," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136613

ATF-West eyes more sovereignty patrols in West Philippine Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13, 2021): ATF-West eyes more sovereignty patrols in West Philippine Sea (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Government sea assets will be continuously deployed to different areas of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) for maritime sovereignty patrols and other law enforcement activities, the Area Task Force (ATF)-West of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said on Tuesday.

In a statement, the body said this is part of its efforts in addressing the recent developments in the WPS through a more extensive and collaborative effort among its member agencies.

"Sea assets are and shall be continuously deployed to different areas in the WPS to conduct maritime and sovereignty patrols, and other law enforcement activities, including the Julian Felipe Reef, Pag-asa Cay, Recto Bank, and other parts of the Kalayaan Island Group," the body said.

It added that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409), while the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has sent two more ships in the area.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through the Western Command, has deployed four Philippine Navy vessels, namely BRP Dagupan City (LS-551), BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS-36), BRP Magat Salamat (PS-20), and BRP Miguel Malvar (PS-19).

These ships will provide support and assistance to PCG and BFAR vessels in the area.

"These inter-agency efforts are very essential in the way we address the national concerns in the WPS. The ATF-West shall continue to do so to ensure that our government forces and agencies will be able to collaborate, complement, and support each other in performing respective mandates in support to national policy and strategy," ATF-West chair Vice Admiral Ramil Roberto Enriquez said.

The ATF-West also urged all Palawan residents and all Filipinos to know and understand their role, and to take their part in the nation's stake in the West Philippine Sea.

It added that through a whole-of-nation approach on the issue, the country's interests and security will be safeguarded for the present and future generation of Filipinos.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136565