House panel OKs consolidated bill on ROTC, NCST

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): House panel OKs consolidated bill on ROTC, NCST (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

File photo

MANILA – Two House of Representatives' panels on Tuesday approved the consolidation of several measures that would establish a mandatory National Citizens Service Training (NCST) program and an optional Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program.

During a joint hearing, the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, chaired by Baguio City Representative Mark Go and the Committee on Basic Education and Culture, chaired by Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo, approved the substitute bill consolidating 27 measures on the ROTC and NCST programs with House Bill 6486 principally authored by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez as the lead bill.

HB 6486 seeks to institute a national citizens service training program in all public and private tertiary education institutions by repealing Republic Act 9163, or the “National Service Training Act”.

The NCST program shall equip and organize the youth with necessary, essential, practical and pragmatic knowledge and skills for civic duty, emergency and disaster response and preparedness in the current frameworks of law enforcement, peace and order, territorial defense and national disaster risk reduction and management for mobilization for military and civil services that produces reservists for the National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC) and AFP Citizen Armed Force (AFP Reserve Force).

The lead bill also proposes an optional ROTC program for higher education students designed to produce officers for the Citizen Armed Force and Regular Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

In his sponsorship speech, co-author TINGOG Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said the establishment of a unified, comprehensive and holistic national citizens service training and mobilization system would enhance the capacity of Filipinos to mobilize and perform their constitutional duty to render personal military or civil service to the State in times of calamities and disasters, national or local emergencies, rebellion, war or invasion.

Acidre further said in the implementation of the national citizens service training and mobilization system, strict monitoring, evaluation and accountability would be observed to prevent all forms of abuses, corruption, hazing, torture, data privacy rights violation and all forms of violation of human rights.

“Any incident or report of abuses, corruption, hazing, torture, data privacy rights violation or any form of violation of human rights would be immediately investigated, addressed, as well as the maximum penalty imposed on any proven perpetrator or violator,” he said.

He said the proposal is a structured, coherent and comprehensive legislative measure for the training and mobilization of the youth for their holistic development.

"This bill also gives life to the constitutional mandate of raising the youth as partners in nation-building, encouraging their early involvement in public and civic affairs, and developing a citizenry that is ready to defend the State in personal military and civil service," he said.

Atty. Spocky Farolan, director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) legal and legislative service, informed members of both committees that the CHED, Department of National Defense (DND), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Education (DepEd) and some other relevant agencies like the National Youth Commission (NYC), have come up with a consensus bill which is embodied in the bill filed by Speaker Romualdez.

“This is already a product of the discussion and deliberations made by the different agencies which is supposed to implement this new program that we want to introduce to strengthen the citizen service program in the Philippines,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190223

Army reservists hailed for nation building, disaster response

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Army reservists hailed for nation building, disaster response (By Priam Nepomuceno)

RESERVIST. Deputy House Speaker and Colonel Isidro Ungab (Res.), who earlier received the Bronze Cross Medal, receives a memento from Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., during the first-ever Philippine Army Fellowship Night With Reservists held at the Philippine Army Officers’ Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Dec. 5, 2022. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has hailed its reservists for their role and dedication in nation building and disaster response efforts.

“They risk their lives to save the lives of others,” said Army chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., in a statement forwarded Tuesday night as the Army honored the services of these individuals in a fellowship night last Dec. 5.

PA spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said Brawner's fellow night with the reservists took place at the Army Officers’ Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

"The fellowship night's highlight was the recognition of Army reservists' service to the country and dedication to duty as well as the commissioning and incorporation of new reserve officers and enlisted personnel," he added.

Among the highlights of the event were Brawner's awarding of Deputy House Speaker and Colonel Isidro Ungab (Reserve) with the Bronze Cross Award, while Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, House Deputy Speaker and Cebu Representative Vincent Franco Frasco, and Lanao del Sur Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong were commissioned into the Army’s reserve force.

Singer-actress Jessa Zaragoza-Avanzado and actor-singer Brent Valdez were likewise enlisted as privates in the PA reserve force during the activity.

"The well-attended activity gathered reservists from all walks of life, most notably from the government, entertainment industry, private sector, and various professions. Senator and Brig. Gen. Francis Tolentino (Res.), who serves as the Commander of the 1501st Ready Reserve Brigade, and Senator and Lt. Col. Sherwin Gatchalian (Res.) also graced the event," Trinidad said.

Four enlisted celebrity reservists -- Francis Cyril "Dingdong" Avanzado, Julieane "Aya" Fernandez, Jean Christopher Santos, and Ivan Carapiet -- also received rank readjustments during the activity.

PH Army civilian employees kick off National Government Employee's Week

As this developed, PA "civilian human resources" or civilian employees kicked off the celebration for the National Government Employee’s Week with an early morning zumba exercise held at the grandstand of the Philippine Army headquarters last Dec. 6.

PA civilian human resource chief Letty Edith Lacanienta led the activity and laid out the activities for the week-long celebration.

During the activity, Lacanienta encouraged the attendees to participate in the upcoming activities in appreciation of the government employees employed by the PA.

The activities include the conduct of the Search for Ginang Kawani Philippine Army 2022 and Fellowship Dinner with Brawner.

"The civilian human resources of the PA perform an important part in the organization as they actively participate in the Command’s institutional transformation by providing administrative and personnel support to the uniformed personnel," Trinidad said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190250

2 Japanese jet fighters in PH for goodwill visit

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): 2 Japanese jet fighters in PH for goodwill visit (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of PAF-JASDF

MANILA – Two Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) McDonnell Douglas F-15 "Eagle" jet fighters landed at Clark Air Base, Pampanga last Dec. 6 as part of the goodwill visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing ties and capabilities of two services.

In a statement Wednesday, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the Japanese jet fighters were escorted by their FA-50PHs upon their arrival in the country.

"(This is) part of the goodwill visit of JASDF to the Philippines which aims to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two Air Forces as they jointly develop their defense capabilities through unit-to-unit exchanges," she added.

A F-15 jet fighter is twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter designed initially to meet the United States Air Force's requirement for a dedicated air superiority fighter.

It has a maximum speed of Mach 2.5 and a combat range of 1,061 nautical miles and is armed with a 20mm cannon and capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air missiles.

Exchanges will be held mainly at the Clark Air Base, Pampanga and the surrounding airspace.

Previously, the JASDF and PAF also conducted bilateral exercises on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) in July 2021 and June 2022.

These exercises aimed to enhance the JASDF and PAF HADR capabilities, particularly in the delivery of relief goods to affected people in severe emergencies.

The arrival of the two F-15Js were followed by a simple program that kicked-off the goodwill interaction between PAF and JASDF participants with Maj. Gen. Takahashi Hideo, JASDF Western Air Defense Force vice commander, as guest of honor.

Castillo said the activity was hosted by 5th Fighter Wing commander Col. Leo Fontanilla and attended by PAF pilots, officers and enlisted personnel, who later had the opportunity to interact with their JASDF counterparts.

"Meanwhile, in Taguig City, Gen Izutsu Shunji, JASDF chief-of-staff, visited the Libingan ng mga Bayani for a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of fallen Filipino soldiers. He was welcomed by the Air Force Inspector General, Maj. Gen. Araus Robert F. Musico, PAF and was led to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where he paid tribute and offered his prayers as the wreath was laid," she added.

The activities are in line with the bilateral agreement between PAF and JASDF to deepen defense cooperation and strengthen the bond of friendship between the two countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190251

Zambo Sur gov't vows to sustain NTF-ELCAC projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Zambo Sur gov't vows to sustain NTF-ELCAC projects (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo from NTF-ELCAC

MANILA – The Zamboanga Del Sur provincial government on Wednesday said it is committed to sustain development programs of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) particularly its "Project Good Life".

“As the governor, of course, it is my job to assess the project when it was first presented to me. But seeing how concrete and sound their plan is, and also considering the urgency of the need to address insurgency, I immediately gave my full confidence and support to ‘Project Good Life,’” Governor Victor Yu said following a courtesy call of NTF-ELCAC director for stakeholders engagement Stephen Cabanlet last Dec. 6.

In a statement, the NTF-ELCAC said "Project Good Life" is an initiative of Zamboanga Del Sur’s Provincial Task Force-ELCAC (PTF-ELCAC). It facilitates the reintegration of "Friends Rescued" (FRs) or former rebels into the society.

The project molds former rebels into productive citizens who are active members of the community.

Attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and development across the country is among the priority goals of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It is also the mandate of the national task force.

The end goal of the project is to establish the community’s total acceptance of FRs, absence any form of discrimination and the monitoring of their recovery and utilization of opportunities to lead a peaceful and secure life.

“What’s great about Project Good Life is how it addresses aspects of ‘pagbabalik-loob’ -- reintegration of FRs to the society as productive citizens and their healing from the wounds they suffered physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” Cabanlet said.

The project provides a transient facility, a fully functional halfway house for the FRs, where they can stay until fully prepared to live in the communities.

While in the halfway house, they are given access to training provided by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to equip them with useful skills, in preparation for employment.

TESDA trainer Artemio Tunacao said once training of these FRs are completed, they are eligible to receive the National Certificate 2, which certifies their skill levels and is widely recognized by companies.

This document also allows them to find jobs easier. The FRs are also receiving psychological therapy which helps in their healing.

One of the proponents of "Project Good Life", Dr. Moibe Olitres Ph.D., conducts psychological assessments necessary to completely prepare the FRs to socialize with others. Zamboanga del Sur’s Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Office of the Governor facilitate the processing of the FRs’ application for Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for them to avail the benefits of the service while in the halfway house.

Social workers also constantly volunteer to help "Project Good Life".

While the provinces of the Zamboanga Peninsula have been declared insurgency-free, Yu said there will be no letup in Zamboanga del Sur’s efforts to maintain peace and development in the area.

“This is not a reason for us to relax, insurgency is just around the corner. We are doing this to provide a better future for Zamboanga del Sur,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190269

Free legal aid for uniformed personnel bill hurdles 2nd reading

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Free legal aid for uniformed personnel bill hurdles 2nd reading (By Jose Cielito)

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading the proposed Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act.

House Bill 6509 seeks to provide free legal assistance to officers and uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in all stages of criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings arising from service-related incidents.

Under the measure, the free legal assistance shall include legal representation in all stages of civil, criminal or administrative proceedings involving service-related incidents; legal advice or consultations in relation to service-related cases or incidents; preparation of pleadings, motions, memoranda, and all other legal forms and documents in relation to service-related cases; and notarization of documents in relation to service-related cases, among others.

As defined under HB 6509, service-related cases refer to civil, criminal, and administrative cases filed against military and uniformed personnel (MUP) involving service-related incidents; while service-related incident refers to any act or omission committed by MUP in good faith that is the consequence of the discharge of their official functions or the performance of their duties, or that is relevant to their office or to the discharge of their official functions.

Officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, BFP, BJMP, PCG, or PNP who have been granted free legal assistance shall continue to enjoy such legal assistance even after their retirement from service.

Retired officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, BFP, BJMP, PCG, or PNP shall also be given free legal assistance for cases or charges involving service-related incidents committed by such retired officers or uniformed personnel while still in active duty.

HB 6509 likewise seeks to mandate the strengthening of the legal offices of the AFP, PNP, BJMP, BFP and PCG to render adequate and effective free legal assistance to qualified personnel.

It also entitles government lawyers representing qualified personnel to payment for actual expenses and honoraria per appearance, as may be authorized; and allows officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, PNP, BJMP, BFP or PCG to be provided with private counsel, when necessary, at the expense of the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190323

USAID study proposes solutions to address PH cyber security risks

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): USAID study proposes solutions to address PH cyber security risks (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

CYBERSECURITY. Executives and top officials from the Philippine government, USAID and IBM present the National Cybersecurity Talent Workforce Assessment Report of the Philippines at its launch in Conrad Hotel, Pasay City on Wednesday (Dec. 7, 2022). A study funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) proposed several solutions meant to address gaps in the country's current cybersecurity, particularly the lack of workforce in its cybersecurity ecosystem. (PNA photo by Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

MANILA – A study funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Wednesday proposed several solutions meant to address gaps in the country's current cybersecurity, particularly the lack of workforce in its cybersecurity ecosystem.

In a launch event at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, USAID's Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) Activity presented its "National Cybersecurity Talent Workforce Assessment of the Philippines" commissioned by IBM Consulting Services and written by Caryn LeMur and Jeff Krinock.

BEACON Chief of Party John Garrity said the study found a lack of credentialed or certified and experienced cybersecurity workforce in the country, particularly in the public sector, among women, and entry to mid-level job positions in the private sector.

"There is this cybersecurity skills shortage so this is an issue for organizations, government, enterprise, and even for individuals, especially young persons who can learn about the opportunity to participate in this sector where there is excess demand for trained professionals," Garrity said.

To address such issues, the study proposed several solutions that are divided into two tracks.

The first set of recommendations, he said, are incremental solutions that are "natural evolutions" of existing cybersecurity steps and are deemed as "low risk.”

"They are designed to move the Philippines' national cybersecurity forward in successive steps,” he added.

These include encouraging cyber awareness at all levels such as in schools, workplaces and homes and ensuring that the government is staffed by competent cybersecurity personnel while cybersecurity initiatives are "sufficiently funded" to toughen the country's information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure.

He also recommended the formal adoption of a cyber "common consistent lexicon" such as the US National Institute for Standards and Technology's (NIST) National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.

To allow regular Filipinos to resist cyberattacks themselves, the study also recommended ensuring Filipinos have to right to freeze their credit.

The second track of recommendations, he said, are "jumpstart" or adaptive solutions that are meant to move the country's cybersecurity posture by a "leap."

"The jumpstart/adaptive track recommendations are designed to 'prime the pump' for a more robust Philippines' cybersecurity ecosystem," he said.

One of these is appointing an executive agency for cybersecurity that would review and right-size current cyber laws, use tax incentives to create cyber apprentice programs and provide grants to create cybersecurity centers of excellence.

In addition, such an executive agency may provide vouchers for certification exams, provide "after-the-fact" 50 percent scholarship to computer engineering graduates that pass selected cyber- or privacy examinations as well as regulating the cost of training.

He highlighted that such agency would need to collaborate with several government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Agency (TESDA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Philippine legislature and the private sector.

The second "jumpstart" recommendation is implementing a cybersecurity curriculum that reflect local and global market demand.

To ensure that the national government has its own professional cybersecurity workforce, the study also proposed making the government cyber pay scale "competitive."

He said recruitment in the cyberspace sector is difficult for many nations and suggested that the best for a country to protect itself is to retain its "best people."

To ensure legal consequences for cybercriminals, the report also recommended enhancing and implementing cybersecurity legal training for judges.

"The Philippine Supreme Court should move to facilitate cybersecurity legal training for judges appointed to hear cybersecurity cases in coordination with the executive agency for cybersecurity," he said.

Lastly, the report recommended sponsoring a national cyber consortium in the Philippines.

"The executive agency for cybersecurity should sponsor and chair a national cyber consortium to ensure the cybersecurity ecosystem is improving and adapting to the changing local and global market," he said.

The consortium, he said, should consider meeting every quarter, or every three months, to "adapt these initiatives" and report back to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

He said representatives of the consortium should include those from the Office of the President (OP), DICT, cyber organizations in the military and intelligence, cyber law enforcement agencies, CHED, TESDA, Department of Education (DepEd), Supreme Court, the academic and private sector, as well as other relevant stakeholders.

If the country fails to adopt or address these recommendations, he said the Philippines will fail to increase the size of its cyber workforce, will continue to have "great difficulty" recruiting and retaining cyber talent (especially in the public sector), and be unable to take advantage of the growing world demand for cyber expertise through the country's business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

On the other hand, if the country is only able to adopt measures in the first track or incremental recommendations, there is a 75 percent possibility that the USD23 billion BPO sector in the country may be "jeopardized."

"Without a jumpstart for the Philippines cyber ecosystem, there is a high business risk to the Philippine economy," he said.

Another risk brought about by the continued lack in the cyber workforce, he said, would be the consequences of cyber attacks, noting that it is not a question of "if" but "when" such attacks happen.

However, if both tracks of recommendations are adopted, it will create a cybersecurity ecosystem that allows cybersecurity stakeholders to "ask questions that address issues and concerns above-and-beyond mere compliance."

The country's cyber ecosystem would also allow the use of "many positive levers" to manipulate its environment.

During the event, Garrity was joined by several government officials such as Senator Grace Poe, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, IBM Philippines president and country general manager Aileen Jiao, IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines executive director Frankie Antolin, and other top ranking executives and officials in the government and private sector.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190327

French military research center wants to partner with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): French military research center wants to partner with PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

IRSEM Acting Director Dr. Marjorie Vanbaelinghem (PNA photo by Joyce Ann Rocamora)

MANILA – A research center under France's Ministry of the Armed Forces is looking to partner and produce joint publications with Philippine education institutions.

The Institute for Strategic Research (IRSEM) said the potential scope for collaboration is broad given the country's position in the region and France's Indo-Pacific strategy.

"I believe that if we want to have an Indo-Pacific strategy as diversified as we want it to be, we need to pay attention to the viewpoints and realities not just of the biggest countries, like the US, China, or Japan, but also to very important players in the area," IRSEM Acting Director Marjorie Vanbaelinghem told reporters on Tuesday.

Vanbaelinghem is in the Philippines from Dec. 5 to 9 to meet with the National Defense College of the Philippines and the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG).

Among the topics discussed during these meetings were the importance of research, higher military education, as well as ASOG's studies on information warfare and the blue economy.

IRSEM mostly works on academic research focused on international relations, military doctrine, and the sociology of defense.

There is no timeline as to when an agreement between the French and Filipino institutes would be forged but Vanbaelinghem sees joint seminars and more IRSEM researchers visiting the Philippines in 2023.

She highlighted the need for "fresh research", given the developments in the region, including the Taiwan Strait tensions and maritime rows in the South China Sea.

"A lot of international relations theories don't help in the current situation. I think there's a lack of concepts and words, and that's one of the reason why at my institute, we're very eager to work with new actors and new researchers to come out of the old concepts," she said.

Vanbaelinghem, meanwhile, said she was struck by the "very balanced perspective" of the Filipino academe on the current state of play in Asia.

"What I'm very interested in the Philippines is that the country has been dealing with internal threats, as well as external threats. So this balancing of home affairs and international relations issues is quite unique," she said.

"That's probably the reason why people have such a well informed and deep viewpoints and expertise on those topics of security and defense."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190337

Recuperating troops get Christmas packages

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): Recuperating troops get Christmas packages (By Priam Nepomuceno)

GIFT GIVING. Department of National Defense officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr. (right), shares a light moment with combat-wounded troops during the gift-giving and visitation activity at the function hall of the Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 6, 2022. Faustino said the gift-giving activity is meant to uplift the morale of combat-wounded soldiers and recognize their sacrifice and service to the country. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – Combat-wounded troops recuperating from their injuries at the Army General Hospital (AGH) in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila received Christmas packages from Department of National Defense (DND) officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr., on December 6.

Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement Thursday, said the activity took place at the function hall of the AGH.

"Combat-wounded troops recuperating at the AGH received Christmas packages during the gift-giving and visitation activity led by DND officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr., and Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Adonis R. Bajao at the AGH Function Hall, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 6, 2022," he said.

Bajao and PA Headquarters and Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) commander Brig. Gen. Moises M. Nayve Jr. assisted Faustino in distributing the gift packs to the recuperating troops.

Faustino said the gift-giving activity is meant to uplift the morale of combat-wounded soldiers and to recognize their sacrifice and service to the country.

”Hindi man ito sapat upang masuklian ang sakripisyong inialay ninyo para sa ating bayan at mga kababayan, nawa ay magsilbi itong paalala sa ating mga kasundaluhan na walang maiiwanan, walang mapapabayaan. Sisikapin naming matugunan ang inyong pangangailangan bilang mga bayani ng ating bayan (While this may not be enough to compensate you for the sacrifices you made for the country and our fellow Filipinos, this will remind our soldiers that no one will be left behind and neglected. We will try to ensure that we provide for your needs as befitting a hero of the country)," he said.

The activity is part of the DND's Christmas tradition project called "KAPAGDAKA" (Kapakanan at Gabay sa Dating Kaanyuan), which promotes the welfare of soldiers who were injured during the fulfillment of the mission.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190342

Wescom task forces conduct Malampaya take down exercises

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): Wescom task forces conduct Malampaya take down exercises (By Priam Nepomuceno)

GOPLAT. Military personnel conduct a "GOPLAT" exercise aboard the Malampaya platform on Dec. 4, 2022. The exercise aims to assess the operational readiness and preparedness of Joint Task Force West and Joint Task Force Malampaya in securing the Malampaya Natural Gas to Power Project platform in cases of emergencies. (Photo courtesy of Naval Forces West)

MANILA – Western Command (Wescom) task forces have successfully conducted another series of "gas-oil platform takedown" (GOPLAT) exercises that aim to assess the capabilities of these units in protecting the vital Malampaya Natural Gas to Power Project (MNGPP) platform.

Involved in the GOPLAT exercises are the Joint Task Force West (JTFW) and Joint Task Force Malampaya (JTFM), the Naval Forces West said in a statement Wednesday night.

The drills took place on December 4 to 5, it added.

"Wescom, through JTFW and JTFM, carried out the fourth iteration of the GOPLAT exercise 2022 from December 4-5, 2022. The exercise aims to assess the operational readiness and preparedness of JTFW and JTFM in securing the MNGPP platform in cases of emergencies that may arise," it added.

During the exercise, activities such as vertical insertion, non-compliant visits, board, search, and seizure were conducted.

The units and assets that participated in the exercise included two multi-purpose attack craft, BA-483 and BA-484, special operation teams, an unmanned aerial system (UAS), a Navy AW-109 "Power", and an Air Force W-3A "Sokol" helicopter.

"This year’s iteration of the GOPLAT exercise was highlighted with the use of high-angle sniping on an AW-109 Navy helicopter and the use of UAS for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance," it added.

Naval Forces West deputy commander for fleet operations Capt. Brendo J. Casaclang, who is also co-director of the exercise, said participating units showcased their capabilities to respond in times of emergencies and acts of terrorism in the MNGPP.

JTFM deputy commander Capt. Arnel F. Teodoro said the exercise aims to enhance the command and control, collaboration, and readiness of the Armed Forces of the Philippines units and other stakeholders during emergencies in the asset.

“The Malampaya Project is one of the country’s economic crown jewels that provides more or less ten-hour of electricity to mainland Luzon, particularly in the National Capital Region. It is imperative that coordinated and unified protection of the project is guaranteed and available on time," he added.

Meanwhile, JTFM commander Marine Brig. Gen. Robert I. Velasco said only the Navy "has the capability to recover and take down the MNGPP in case of emergencies, attacks, and intrusions."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190341

PH Army concludes 1st aeromedical evacuation training program

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): PH Army concludes 1st aeromedical evacuation training program (By Priam Nepomuceno)

1ST AEROMEDICAL TRAINING. Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) Commander Brig. Gen. Moises M. Nayve, Jr., hands over the certificate to one of the graduates of the Philippine Army's first-ever aeromedical evacuation training program during the closing ceremony at the Philippine Army Officers’ Clubhouse Pavillion, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 5, 2022. The training enhances the student’s knowledge and skills in treating and increasing the survivability of combat-wounded soldiers. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has concluded on Dec. 5 its first-ever aeromedical evacuation training program which is designed to save the lives of its combat casualties.

PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement on Thursday, said 17 students completed the training program which is divided into the Army Flight Medic Course and the Army Critical Care Flight Medic Course.

Training of the participants started early this January. Closing ceremonies were at the PA Officers' Clubhouse Pavilion, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

"The two-tiered program, which is facilitated by the Office of the Army Chief Nurse and Office of the Amy Chief Surgeon in collaboration with the Army Aviation Regiment and the Philippine Emergency Medical Service Authority, enhanced the student’s knowledge and skills in treating and increasing the survivability of combat-wounded soldiers," Trinidad said.

He added the program also helped upgrade the Aviation Regiment’s aeromedical capability in light of the acquisition of new rotary wing assets that will be used in the transport of battle casualties.

”Through this course, we can proudly say that we already have the capability to rescue and take care of our combat casualties,” PA Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) commander Brig. Gen. Moises Nayve Jr. said in a speech on behalf of Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

Aerial medical evacuation is the fastest way to transport a combat-wounded soldier from the point of injury to the nearest medical treatment facility.

“The course will capacitate Army surgeons, nurses and flight technicians in improving the chances of survival of combat-wounded soldiers,” Army Chief Nurse Col. Maria Victoria Juan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190382

PH Army remains committed to fighting violence against women

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PH Army remains committed to fighting violence against women (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMITMENT. Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Adonis R. Bajao delivers his message during the Culmination Ceremony of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women on Dec. 6, 2022 held at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Bajao said the Philippine Army (PA) is committed to eliminating violence against women. (Photo from PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) is committed to eliminating violence against women (VAW) as it formally ends its 18th day campaign against this societal ill last Dec. 6.

“May our participation, not only in this campaign but also in our life-long commitment to fight the pervasive effects of VAW, serve as a reminder for us to always uphold our ethical duties as professional and disciplined servant-soldiers in the organization,” Army vice commander Maj. Adonis Bajao said in a statement Thursday.

The PA's 18-day campaign against VAW was made possible through its Office of the Army Gender and Development (OAGAD).

Closing ceremonies took place at PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

Bajao also expressed his gratitude to the Army personnel and resource speakers for their active support in the campaign.

As this developed, the PA, through the Office of the Inspector General (IG), conducted the 25th Inspector General Service Seminar 2022 last Dec. 6 and 7.

Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the activity was held at the Philippine Army Intelligence Center of Excellence (PAICOE) in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

He added PA acting chief-of-staff Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel M. Niembra, who served as guest-of-honor and speaker, stressed the significance of the IG’s job as the beacon of exemplary service.

"Maj. Gen. Niembra also encouraged PA Major Units (PAMU) Inspector General Service (IGS) units to utilize all fresh ideas for improvement and to strive on being the bearers of standards among fellow troops," Trinidad said.

The IGS Seminar was attended by 35 participants from various IG units.

The seminar reviewed the inspection parameters and rating system to be used for the 2023 Annual General Inspection (AGI). It pursued initiatives on empowering the IG units through collaborative discussions that addressed the issues and challenges by stakeholders in relation to the common and recurring AGI findings.

The gathering also sustained the initiatives of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) relevant to the IGS.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190406

PBBM leads blessing of 2 brand-new attack helicopters

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PBBM leads blessing of 2 brand-new attack helicopters (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of the Office of the President

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said his administration fully supports the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s ongoing modernization efforts as he led the ceremonial blessing of the two Turkish-made T129 "Atak" helicopters in Malacañang on Friday.

The Chief Executive also expressed hope that the modernization goal and PAF’s recent advancement will drive it to enhance its defense capabilities consistently, perform its duties effectively and protect the nation with vigor and pride.

Marcos said he expects that the recently acquired state-of-the-art helicopters will improve the Air Force’s operational readiness and responsiveness and empower it to fulfill its mandate to the country and the people.

The President also appreciated the contribution of the government of Turkiye and the Turkish Aerospace Industries for being reliable partners of the Philippine government in modernizing the PAF.

At the same time, President Marcos expressed gratitude to the PAF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for their invaluable contribution to the nation’s external defense, internal security operations, as well as disaster relief and response operations.

Last March, PAF received the two T129 along with unspecific logistics support equipment under a USD269 million government-to-government contract with Turkiye that was signed in July 2020.

The Philippines has six helicopters on order under the multi-million dollar contract, which is part of the Horizon 2 phase of the AFP modernization program.

The T129 helicopters are being manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries based on the AgustaWestland A129 Mangusta design.

The new assets will complement a pair of refurbished Bell AH-1S Huey "Cobra" attack helicopters from Jordan, along with armed light observation and transport helicopters in PAF’s inventory.

The first two T129s were delivered last March 9.

These aircraft will be utilized for territorial defense, aerial surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-insurgency combat operations and combat support operations.

Its roles are close air support, precision strike, deep strike, suppression of enemy Air defense, security/urban warfare, and air-to-air warfare.

The T129 is a twin-engine, tandem seat, multi-role, all-weather attack helicopter and armed with a variety of guns, rockets, missiles, sensors and targeting systems.

It has a cruising speed of 120 knots and a range of 250 nautical miles.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190437

PNP-SAF offers 5 specialized courses to enhance capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PNP-SAF offers 5 specialized courses to enhance capabilities (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Photo courtesy of PNP

MANILA – The Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) has opened five courses to further capacitate its operatives.

In a statement on Friday, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., officially opened the SAF training courses on Thursday in a simple ceremony held in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City.

Opened simultaneously were the Special Action Force Commando Course (SAFCC) Classes 120 and 121-2022, SAF Basic Airborne Course (SAFBAC) class 55-2022, Basic Mechanized Operation Course (BMOC) class 03-2022, SAF Sniper Course (SAFS) 14-2022, Intelligence Basic Course (IBC) CLASS 59-2022, and Parachute Packing Course (PPC) Class 01-2022.

Azurin said the PNP will continue to enhance the operational capability and efficiency of PNP-SAF in performing its mandate and functions.

He said the PNP elite unit enlivens its virtue to serve God, country and people with utmost excellence living up with the SAF motto, “By skill and Virtue, We Triumph”.

"We must be bolder, tougher, stronger and faster than the evil elements we are fighting against. We thus need men and women in the police force who will respond to the demands of the job and the expectations of the people we serve and protect," Azurin said. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190429

Calabarzon police lauded in ex-rebels' surrender in Batangas

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11, 2022): Calabarzon police lauded in ex-rebels' surrender in Batangas (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has lauded the Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A (Calabarzon) after former rebels surrendered with their firearms to authorities in Batangas.

In a statement on Saturday, Azurin said 14 members of Eduardo Dagli Command group under combat support element of Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4C and New People’s Army (NPA) yielded to authorities in Brgy. Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas on Friday.

They are now under the custody of 403rd Maneuver Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion 4-A.

"I commend all the units involved in this successful accomplishment headed by Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Regional Director PRO 4-A. Let us continue doing our best to ensure the maintenance of peace and order in our community, especially this coming holidays,” Azurin said.

“The PNP is continuously extending the government's arms of reconciliation and peace, especially to those who wish to return to the fold of the law, cooperate in nation-building and live peacefully and happily in the community together with their families,” he said.

Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration remains committed in addressing the country’s insurgency woes as it also provides assistance to former rebels to return to mainstream society.

Through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), Abalos said the national government has helped 1,100 former rebels get back to the fold of the society since July 1.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190509

Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A leader of a clan, listed as a potential private armed group, has surrendered to authorities in the province of Basilan, a top police official said Saturday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Sabtarul Arasalun, 66, surrendered around 10 a.m. Friday at the town hall of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan province.

Verceles said Arasalun is the leader of the Hamuto clan, listed as a potential private armed group in Barangay Lagayas, Tipo-Tipo.

Arasalun turned over a .38-caliber revolver with tampered serial number and ammunition.

With the surrender of Arasalun, the Hamuto clan will be delisted in the data of potential private armed groups in Basilan as of the fourth quarter of 2022.

Private armed groups are often utilized by politicians during elections.

Verceles said Arasalun will be reintegrated back into his community where he will be closely monitored by the Tipo-Tipo Municipal Police Station to ensure that he will abide by the law.

The surrender of Arasalun was witnessed by Tipo-Tipo Mayor Arcam Istarul and top police and military officials in Basilan province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190015