Guns, food supplies recovered from rebel camp

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 7, 2023): Guns, food supplies recovered from rebel camp (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Assorted guns recovered by the RMFB 7 and PNP Special Action Force troopers during encounters in Santa Catalina and Sibulan, Negros Oriental.* PNP photos

Police troopers seized a New People’s Army camp and recovered assorted guns, following two encounters on February 3 and 4 in Santa Catalina and Sibulan, all in Negros Oriental, according to a report of the Police Regional Office 7.

The first encounter ensued Friday night, between troopers of the 705th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 7, and 15 suspected NPA rebels at Sitio Tubod Bagtik, Brgy. Enrique Villanueva, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

No casualties were reported on the government side.

The next day, troopers of the 704th Maneuver Company of the RMFB 7 and 61st Special Action Company of the PNP Special Action Force also encountered about 10 suspected NPA members in Sitio Bukal-bukal, Brgy. Talalak, Sta. Catalina, also in Negros Oriental.

The running gun battle, which lasted about eight minutes, ended with the communist rebels scampering in various directions, leaving behind a KG9 automatic pistol with two magazines containing ammunition, and an M203 grenade launcher with ammunition.

A follow up joint operation of the 705th Maneuver Company, also of the RMFB 7, 62nd Special Action Company of PNP SAF and Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion also resulted to the seizure of a rebel camp at Sitio Bukal-Bukal in Brgy. Talalak, Santa Catalina.

At the abandoned camp, government troopers recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a magazine containing ammunition, and food supplies left behind by the fleeing rebels.

In a statement, PBrig. Gen. Jerry Biarez, PRO 7 director, said that the accomplishments were made due to intelligence-driven operations, in tandem with other law enforcement agencies and the Philippine Army, in cooperation of residents in the area.

https://visayandailystar.com/guns-food-supplies-recovered-from-rebel-camp/

Bangsamoro mourns death of first Wali

From MindaNews (Jan 6, 2023): Bangsamoro mourns death of first Wali (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

Wali Khalifa Nando. Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro government

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 06 February) – Sheikh Khalifa Nando, the first Wali of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) died on Sunday morning of natural causes.

“It is with a deep sense of loss that we express our condolences and sympathy to the family of Sheikh Khalifa Nando, the Wali of the Bangsamoro on his return to the mercy of Allah today,” said lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM spokesperson and interior and local government minister.

“The Wali is the symbolic Head of the Bangsamoro Government and his demise is a loss not only to his family but to the entire Bangsamoro,” Sinarimbo added.

Nando, one of the founders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), was 81.

Around 1,500 family members, MILF leaders and fellow Muslims attended his burial on the same day in Barangay Kayaga, Pandag, Maguindanao del Sur.

Officials estimated the attendees at about 1,5000 family, friends and Bangsamoros.

Social media was flooded with messages of condolences and prayers.

Nando was last seen in public during the opening program of the BARMM 4th foundation anniversary last January 25, standing side by side with Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim and traveled to Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte for the turnover of the facilities for the orphans and grand Masjid.

Defense Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr, also the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity was saddened by the passing of Nando.

“Wali Nando was considered a major pillar of the Bangsamoro peace process,” Galvez said in a statement sent to the MILF and BARMM leaders.

“But Wali Nando will be best remembered for his work as a religious leader and peacebuilder. As the BARMM’s Wali, he was instrumental in promoting the culture of peace, inter-religious dialogue, and social healing and reconciliation among the Bangsamoro people,” he said.

“His legacy of peace will continue beyond his passing,” he added.

Nando, more known as “Sheikh Khalifa,” studied at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt along with MILF founding chair Salamat Hashim.

As a co-founder of the MILF, he served as chair of its Central Committee on Education, chair of Majlis Al-Shura (Consultative Assembly), and as head of the MILF Sharia Supreme Court.

During the inaugural session of the Interim Bangsamoro Parliament on March 29, 2019, he was appointed as the first Wāli of the newly constituted BARMM.

He likewise opened the inaugural session of the second interim parliament on September 15, 2022.

Sinarimbo said Nando led some of the efforts in strengthening the Bangsamoro resistance movement and was a constant source of wisdom and advice in the transition to peace and governance of the MILF.

“He has been very active even during these past few months in carrying out his role as symbolic head of the Bangsamoro Government and in visiting Bangsamoro communities in the islands and even in Muslim communities in Luzon,” he said.

The wālī is an elective position endorsed by the council of elders to be nominated by the parliament and is regarded as the ceremonial head of the Bangsamoro Government.

The holder of the position performs the following ceremonial functions: Opening of the parliament session, administering the oath of office, dissolving the Bangsamoro Parliament as advised by the Chief Minister, calling for the election of a new parliament, attending public ceremonies and welcoming foreign and local dignitaries. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/bangsamoro-mourns-death-of-first-wali/

1 Marine killed, 3 others injured in Lanao del Sur ambush

From MindaNews (Jan 5, 2023): 1 Marine killed, 3 others injured in Lanao del Sur ambush (By MARIVIC OMANDAM DAVIS)

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 05 Feb) – A Marine sergeant was killed while three others were injured in an ambush by still unidentified suspects on Saturday afternoon in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong, Lanao del Sur.

Killed was Sgt. Tonti Melbert Pamaran while injured were Sgt. Aninon, Sgt Jeram Aradji, and Cpl. Mark Anthony Banares from the of MBLT-2 Philippine Marines were wounded.

According to the report of P/Lt. Joseph Chicano of the Marogong Municipal Police station, they received a call at around 3:55 p.m. about the ambush. They said the Marines were just passing by when shot by still unidentified suspects.

Lt. Col. Sergio Reyes Ronquillo, Battalion Commander of MBLT2, said his soldiers were conducting community relations in the barangay when ambushed.

  

At the ambush site in Barangay Cabasan, Marogong, Lanao del Sur. Photo courtesy of Marogong Police.

Recovered from the scene of the ambush were empty shells from a 5.56 mm rifle.

The soldiers said they returned fire with their caliber .45 pistols and sought cover until their fellow Marines arrived. (Marivic Omandan Davis / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/1-marine-killed-3-others-injured-in-lanao-del-sur-ambush/

Retaliation eyed in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur

From MindaNews (Feb 6, 2023): Retaliation eyed in ambush of Marines in Lanao Sur (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

A scene after the ambush in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong, Lanao del Sur. Contributed Photo

COTABATO CITY (MindaNews / 06 February) – Officials of the Philippine National Police and Philippine Marines said the ambush of members of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) in Lanao Del Sur could be a retaliation after security forces foiled an attempt by suspected members of a group with alleged links to the ISIS to build a training camp in the area.

Killed in the attack on Saturday afternoon in Barangay Cabasaran, Marogong town was Marine Sgt Tonti Melbert Pamaran while wounded were Cpl. Mark Anthony Bañares, Sgt. Jeram Aradji and Sgt. Joan Aniñon.

“It’s possibly a retaliation,” according to Major Alvison Mustapha, spokesperson of the Lanao Del Sur police when asked what could be the possible motive of the attack.

He pointed to a group allegedly formed by remnants of Dawla Islamiya led by Faharuddin Hadjisatar, a.k.a. Abu Zacariah, as the perpetrators of the attack.

He said charges will be filed Monday in the local court against Hadjisatar, the alleged new ISIS emir in Southeast Asia.

Police said Hadjisatar has outstanding warrants of arrest.

Lt. Joseph Chicano of the Marogong Municipal Police Station said they received a call around 3:55 p.m. about the ambush.

Lt. Col. Sergio Reyes Ronquillo, battalion commander of MBLT-2, said his soldiers were conducting community relations in the barangay when ambushed.

Recovered from the scene of the ambush were empty shells from a 5.56 mm rifle. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/02/retaliation-eyed-in-ambush-of-marines-in-lanao-sur/

Local ISIS fighters ambush troops

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 6, 2023): Local ISIS fighters ambush troops

COTABATO CITY - Suspected Filipino Muslim militants ambushed a group of soldiers Saturday in the southern Philippines, leaving one dead and three others wounded, officials said Monday.

The attack came days after United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III visited a military base in Mindanao where he assured America will help the Philippines on its anti-terror crackdown in the south.

Soldiers belonging to 2nd Marine Battalion Landing Team were on a community service in the village of Cabasaran in the town of Marogong in Lanao del Sur shortly around 3:00 p.m. when they were attacked by an undetermined number of Daulah Islamiyah.

"Daulah Islamiyah" means "Islamic State" in the local language. Its membership comprises fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute Group, which had provided men and logistics during a five-month siege of Marawi by pro-IS fighters in 2017.

“There’s an ongoing pursuit operation against the perpetrators,” town police chief Lt. Joseph Chicano told a local radio station.

Killed in the ambush was Sgt. Tonti Melbert Pamaran while those wounded rushed to the local hospital Sgt.Aninon, Sgt. Jeram Aradji and Cpl Mark Anthony Banares, all members of Philippine Marines.

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said that based on their information the mastermind behind the incident was Faharudin Hadji Satar, one of the leaders of Daulah Islamiyah.

“They wanted to show that they still have capability,” he said.

The latest attack happened days after Austin met senior Filipino military officials in the country to convey America’s support for the Philippines.

In 2017, a small team of U.S. troops assisted Philippine forces in defeating pro-Islamic State (IS) militants who had seized the city of Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city in the southern Philippines.

While the American troops were restricted from combat operations, they helped their Filipino counterparts gather intelligence that led to victory in the five-month battle where at least 1,200 militants, government forces and civilians were killed.

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/02/local-isis-fighters-ambush-troops.html

2 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 7, 2023): 2 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

SULU - Two Abu Sayyaf terrorists have surrendered to the military authorities in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, once a stronghold of the dreaded pro-ISIS group.

Photo released by the Western Mindanao Command shows the two Abu Sayyaf terrorists following their surrender on Monday, February 6, 2023 in Sulu's Patikul town.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, has identified the duo only by their alias Hadjang, 50; and Nadz, 20. He said the two men surrendered on Monday, February 6, to the 6th Special Forces Battalion under Lt. Col. Harold Nemeño in the village of Buhanginan in Patikul town.

“The two Abu Sayyaf members surrendered to the military in Sulu on Monday morning, February 6. They also surrendered one M16 rifle and one .45-caliber pistol,” he said.

Army Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, lauded the surrender of the two Abu Sayyaf fighters.

“We attribute this success to the collaborative efforts of Joint Task Force Sulu, the provincial government of Sulu, our partners and stakeholders, and the peace-loving people of Sulu.”

“The employment of the whole-of-nation approach has brought our campaign against terrorism to a greater height. Rest assured that we will continue to intensify our efforts to bring lasting peace and progress in Sulu and the rest of the provinces in our area of operation,” Galido said.

Dozens of Abu Sayyaf terrorists had surrendered since last year and were provided financial aid by the provincial and municipal governments, including a livelihood package from the national government as part of a program to lure Muslim extremists to return to the fold of the law and live peacefully with their families and become responsible citizens. (Al Jacinto)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/02/2-sayyaf-terrorists-yield-in-sulu.html

DND lauds senators for support to EDCA, joint US-PH patrols

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): DND lauds senators for support to EDCA, joint US-PH patrols (By Priam Nepomuceno)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (left) and DND OIC-Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (right) (PNA file photo by Joey Razon)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. lauded three of the country's senators for expressing their support to the move of the Philippines and the United States to designate four more locations as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites and the possible conduct of joint maritime patrols.

"On behalf of the DND, I sincerely thank our lawmakers for expressing their support for EDCA and the resumption of joint PH-US maritime patrols," he added in a statement late Sunday.

Galvez said it is encouraging for the DND to know that lawmakers are aware of the importance of EDCA and joint maritime patrols to the national interest.

He was referring to the favorable sentiments shared by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian on these favorable Philippine defense and security developments last week.

Tolentino was earlier quoted as saying as "I am in favor of defense/security cooperation ‘upgrades’ with reliable allies like the United States, considering the evolving regional conditions and challenges, so long as this is anchored on solid constitutional foundations and for the greater interests of the nation and EDCA is evidently a good model."

Meanwhile, Escudero said there is no reason for the Philippines not to continue its joint patrols with the US considering that America has been the country's ally since the late 1940s.

Escudero also emphasized that joint patrols would help reduce encroachments and acts of harassment in the area.

Meanwhile, Gatchalian shared that joint patrols and other cooperative military activities with the US would enhance military interoperability between the two countries.

Gatchalian also stressed that these activities are not limited to combat operations but also cover disaster preparedness efforts.

Galvez also expressed hope that local government units realize that the EDCA is not just about security.

"We enjoin them to look into the potential foreign investments and economic development that EDCA sites will bring to their communities as well as the enhancement of the protection of our areas that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change and the quicker disaster response and mitigation if our front-liners are called to action," he added.

Galvez stressed that these efforts being done by the DND to boost the country's capabilities are consistent with the President's foreign policy of being a friend to everyone and an enemy to no one.

"It is truly encouraging that our distinguished senators are aware of the importance of EDCA and joint maritime patrols to our national interest. I thank them again for their support," he added.

Also, Galvez said the Philippines shares the vision of like-minded nations in ensuring freedom of navigation and a peaceful, stable and free Indo-Pacific.

"As a member of the international community, we have a responsibility to protect the global commons in order to prevent humanity from constricting itself by ensuring that vital sea lines of communications are kept open. We must also promote responsible stewardship over our marine resources which are being threatened by overfishing and man-made ecological degradation," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194447

BARMM's Wali Nando major pillar of peace process: OPAPRU

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): BARMM's Wali Nando major pillar of peace process: OPAPRU (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BARMM Wali Khalifa Nando (Photo courtesy of the Bangsamoro Office of the Wali)

MANILA – Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. extended his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Wali Khalifa Nando who passed away on Sunday.

"Wali Nando was considered a major pillar of the Bangsamoro peace process. He was appointed by the BARMM interim government as its first Wali on March 29, 2019. He also opened the inaugural session of the second Bangsamoro Parliament on September 15, 2022," Galvez said in a statement Monday.

Wali Nando is the ceremonial head of the BARMM.

Wali is an Arabic word that could be translated into "master," "authority," "custodian," and protector.

Galvez also paid tribute to Nando's work as a religious leader and peacebuilder.

He said the late leader was instrumental in promoting the culture of peace, interreligious dialogue, and social healing and reconciliation among the Bangsamoro people.

"His legacy of peace will continue beyond his passing," Galvez said.

"May Wali Nando find eternal peace in the hands of Allah. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un! (Surely, we belong to Allah and verily to Him do we return)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194449

PH-US 'Balikatan' exercises set in April

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): PH-US 'Balikatan' exercises set in April (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(File photo)

MANILA – This year's "Balikatan" military exercises between American and Filipino troops will take place in April.

"The AFP and the US Armed Forces are once again holding the 38th iteration of annual bilateral 'Balikatan' exercises. although this is a bilateral activity, the AFP takes the lead in planning and execution, supported by the US Armed Forces with other like-minded nations as observers," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement Monday.

Aguilar said "Balikatan" 38-2023 will help the AFP in developing its external defense capabilities and fulfilling its obligations to other countries in the region in terms of countering terrorism and other security threats.

"'Balikatan' 38-2023 will result in the development of the AFP capability not only in the conduct of external defense operations but also in fulfilling its obligation in working with other countries in the region against terrorism and other threats," he added.

The AFP neither indicated the exact dates of the exercises nor gave an exact number of participating American and Filipino military personnel for this year's exercises.

However, it said the maneuvers will be held in the areas of jurisdiction of the Northern Luzon Command, Visayas Command and Western Command.

"Yun (the) number of (participating) personnel is still undergoing discussion," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor told reporters.

He also said the "Balikatan" exercises are for the second week of April but added that this is still "tentative" and is still "to be finalized".

In the 2022 iteration of "Balikatan," around 3,800 members of the AFP and 5,100 US military personnel -- the largest number of combined personnel of the two militaries in the annual exercise since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in 2020, participated in the annual exercises.

The Philippines and US exercise forces employed more than 50 aircraft, four ships, 10 amphibious craft, four high mobility artillery rocket system launchers, and four Patriot missile systems during "Balikatan" 2022.

"Balikatan" 2022 also included approximately 40 personnel from the Australian Defense Force.

Meanwhile, Aguilar said the AFP is grateful for the support extended by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian to the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement where the Philippines and US both agreed on four new locations as EDCA sites last week.

"This manifestation of support is in line with our treaty obligation as contained in the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951," he added.

Since the signing of EDCA in 2014, Aguilar said EDCA has continuously facilitated the conduct of military exercises and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in support of the AFP mission.

"Likewise, with the threat of climate change, our partnership with modern and well-equipped countries such as the United States of America will develop the capability of our troops in executing HADR operations in times of natural calamities and disasters," Aguilar said.

"In addition to capability development, our engagement with a friend and a long-time ally also brings economic activities and opportunities that will benefit the people of the host local government units. This will further improve business confidence that will provide the economic stability that investors seek," he added.

Cagayan De Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez welcomed the decision to expand the EDCA with US.

“It is in our national interest to pursue and expand our defense partnership with the United States to deter further aggression from China in the West Philippine Sea and possible Chinese seizure of islets that belong to us under International law,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He said the expanded EDCA should be further broadened, including in areas where Filipino fishermen have been experiencing harassment.

“I support the Philippine Air Force base at the former Lumbia airport in our city. I expect the US government to pour in more funds to develop and fully capacitate the air base,” Rodriguez said.

He said the free ports in Subic, Zambales and Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga, which are former US military bases, should be part of EDCA training-exercises and humanitarian activities.
“The presence of the US in the former US Navy base in Subic could deter Chinese Coast Guard and military vessels from driving away our fishermen from their traditional fishing grounds in Scarborough or Panatag Shoal, or Bajo de Masinloc, which is near Zambales and Pangasinan,” he said.

Rodriguez proposed that Pag-asa Island off Palawan should also be included in EDCA.

He said expanded defense cooperation in the south should prompt the Marcos administration to allow and support oil and gas exploration in the Reed Bank near Palawan.

He noted that Reed Bank or Recto Bank is reportedly holding more oil and gas reserves than the Malampaya natural gas project, also located in Palawan. (with reports from Zaldy De Layola/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194466

AFP must be more agile in diplomacy, geopolitical talks: Marcos

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 6, 2023): AFP must be more agile in diplomacy, geopolitical talks: Marcos (By Azer Parrocha)

AGILE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the oath-taking ceremony of generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Malacañan Palace on Monday (Feb. 6, 2023). In his speech, he urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated." (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated."

He made this remark in a speech at the oath-taking ceremony of generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Malacañan Palace.

"We, therefore, have to be more agile in our responses not only in the military area but also in diplomacy, also in geopolitical negotiations, and in our partnerships that we foster with our friends and allies around the world," he said.

Marcos, as AFP commander-in-chief, underscored the need to strengthen the country's collaboration with various government agencies, allies, partners and other stakeholders to safeguard and advance the country's national interest amid tensions and challenges.

He said the role of the AFP and its commanders has changed hence the need to continue to keep up with the times.

"Not only has the situation – the geopolitical situation become more complex, even the method of warfighting has become more complex with the new technologies, with the new capabilities that have become available to us," he added.

He, likewise, said the military has to make sure it knows "very well how to use the tools that are given us to the best effect for the national interest."

Marcos lauded the AFP and congratulated the newly promoted generals and flag officers.

"The AFP has never failed in that mission, and I only hope to continue to inspire to keep up the good work and keep the Philippines safe," he added.

He also assured the administration's continuous support of the programs promoting the welfare of troops and their families, as he reiterated that the modernization of the AFP is one of his top priorities to address national security concerns.

The AFP consists of three main service branches: the Army, the Air Force and the Navy. It is currently headed by AFP chief of staff, Gen. Andres Centino.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194545

Mandatory ROTC to boost trainees' resilience, character

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Mandatory ROTC to boost trainees' resilience, character (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of PLM Reserve Officers' Training Corps 2022-2023 Facebook page)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. clarified that the proposed enhanced Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program would allow trainees to beef up their resilience and character -- qualities that are believed to foster good mental health.

The DND chief made this clarification Monday night after some reports claimed that ROTC would help "cure" or address mental health issues.

"We have learned of the sensitivities raised by our mental health practitioners and advocates on what they believe is the improper use at the Senate hearing on Monday, February 6, of the word 'cure' for mental health issues," Galvez said.

The DND chief said they understood and appreciated the concerns of these groups as mental health is an issue that affects the broadest spectrum of society.

"What we intended to convey during the hearing was that through our enhanced ROTC program, we would be able to build the strength of character and resilience of our trainees, qualities which positively foster mental health," Galvez said.

He also added that the ROTC program also aims to develop among the trainees the basic psychosocial support competencies that are crucial in responding to stressful situations and contexts.

Galvez stressed that the ROTC program they envisioned in the DND includes courses that are specifically designed to foster resilience, self-leadership, character-building and discipline.

"We believe these are virtues that our trainees must cultivate not only for their personal growth and development as individuals, but more importantly, enable them to play a key role in building a just, humane and democratic society," he added.

Galvez also assured the public that DND leadership shall carefully take into account the spirit of Republic Act 11036 (Mental Health Act of 2018) and the issues raised by our mental health experts in the crafting of the ROTC training program.

77 new senior AFP officers take oath

After a hiatus of three years brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the DND announced that 77 newly appointed and promoted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers took their oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañan Palace.

Taking their oath before the chief executive and commander in chief is one of the most important traditions of the AFP, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

"President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. administered the oath of office to 77 senior officers of the AFP on Monday, 6 February 2023 -- the first time the ceremony was undertaken since he was elected to office," he added.

The President congratulated the newly promoted officers and reminded them of "the new mission that our Armed Forces has to face in this day and age."

The Chief Executive also emphasized the AFP's crucial role in protecting the country's interests amid the complex security landscape "That is why it is up to us to make sure that we know very well how to use the tools that are given us to the best effect for the national interest," Marcos added.

Among the officers who took their oath are Lt.Gen. Arthur M. Cordura, vice chief of staff of the AFP; Lt. Gen. Rowen S. Tolentino, superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy; Vice Admiral Toribio D. Adaci Jr., Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy; Lt. Gen. Stephen P. Parreño, commanding general of the Philippine Air Force; and Lt. Gen. Efren P. Baluyot, commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command, and others.

"The act of taking our oath is a spiritual and emotional commitment to do our duty, render service to our nation and people, and uphold the supremacy of civilian authority over the military," Galvez stated.

He added that this ceremony headed by the commander in chief is a testament to the respect and full support of the national leadership for the AFP.

"We are grateful to the President for the importance that he gave to this milestone in the selfless service of the defenders of our republic as well as to their families, who also endure the hardships and sacrifice that every one of our soldiers faces when they risk their lives for our country and people," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194557

PH Army honors outgoing AFP deputy chief of staff

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): PH Army honors outgoing AFP deputy chief of staff (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) and AFP) deputy chief of staff Vice Adm. Rommel Anthony SD Reyes (left) (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has rendered honors to outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief of staff Vice Adm. Rommel Anthony SD Reyes who retires next month.

These honors were given after Reyes' exit call to PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio on Monday.

"Vice Admiral Reyes, who is set to cap his military service next month, thanked the 110,000-strong PA for being a responsive, professional, and committed force provider to the AFP," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Tuesday.

Reyes was appointed AFP deputy chief of staff in February 2022, succeeding Vice Adm. Erick Kagaoan.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1989 and has a Master’s in Public Management major in Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Reyes has specialized in various warfare and staff functions and has held key staff and command positions throughout his sterling career.

Meanwhile, Brawner graced the 53rd founding anniversary of the 4th Infantry Division at Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Feb. 3.

Anchored on the theme "Sustaining excellence, strengthening partnership," the anniversary ceremony recognized the efforts of all people behind the success of the unit throughout the years.

During the event, Brawner presided over the pinning of the Institutionalized Status of the 26th Infantry Battalion, which exhibited exemplary performance in good governance.

He also commended the division’s state-building capabilities through the support of the soldiers and stakeholders who always extended their service for the betterment of the community and the country.

“To all the military personnel and stakeholders, please continue supporting your PA and AFP. We need your support and help because if we work together, we will have a better nation,” Brawner said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194563

PH Army, USARPAC to help each other in capability dev't

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): PH Army, USARPAC to help each other in capability dev't (By Priam Nepomuceno)

United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) deputy commanding general Lt. Gen. James B. Jarrard (left) and Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. (right) (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) and its counterpart, the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), have agreed to support each other in their ongoing capability development.

This came following the courtesy call of USARPAC deputy commanding general, Lt. Gen. James B. Jarrard, to PA commander, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday.

"During the visit, Lt. Gen. Brawner and Lt. Gen. Jararrd explored a range of engagement opportunities to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The two generals also discussed the preparations on capability development and training, particularly the upcoming 'Salaknib' and 'Balikatan' exercises," said Army spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement.

"Salaknib" is scheduled for the first quarter of 2023 while "Balikatan" is on the second quarter of this year.

"Moreover, both Armies likewise agreed to support each other’s organizational and capability development plans, especially towards the PA’s modernization initiatives which would play a key role in revolutionizing and equipping the Army," Trinidad added.

Joining Jarrard in his courtesy call were 19 USARPAC delegates including 25th Infantry Division (25ID) commanding general, Maj. Gen. Joseph Ryan; 25ID deputy commanding general for operations, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Van Antwerp; 1st Multi-Domain Task Force commanding general, Brig. Gen. Bernard J. Harrington; and other staff members.

Jarrard also visited the Nueva Ecija, Fort Magsaysay-based 7th Infantry Division and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement project sites there.

He is set to visit the Northern Luzon Command which is located in Tarlac City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194593

AFP to send rescue teams to quake-hit Türkiye

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): AFP to send rescue teams to quake-hit Türkiye (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Bea Bernardo, PTV)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it would deploy 33 military personnel to help in ongoing search and rescue efforts in Türkiye which was rocked by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake on Monday.

The personnel are trained in search and rescue operations and have the equipment for the special task, according to AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Andres Centino.

"We are sending two groups, from the Army and the Air Force. A total of 33 personnel -- 21 from the Army, 12 from the Air Force," Centino told reporters on the sidelines of the inspection of responding troops and equipment at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

While this is the first time for some of the troops to be deployed abroad, Centino said they have responded to various calamities and typhoons in the Philippines, including the aftermath of Typhoon Odette in December 2021.

Centino said he advised the troops to prepare for Türkiye’s cold weather, which will fall to as low as 3 degrees Celsius in the next two weeks, according to forecasts.

The AFP will provide the proper clothing and equipment while security arrangements are being prepared.

PH rescue teams mobilized

Meanwhile, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chairperson and Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge (OIC) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. inspected and sends-off the inter-agency response teams to be deployed to Türkiye.

Galvez was accompanied by Centino, Department of Health OIC Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) OIC Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, Centino, Metro Manila Development Authority acting chairman Romando Artes, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Fire Department manager Ranny Magno.

The response came after the call for assistance from the international community of Türkiye through its embassy in Manila requesting for emergency medical teams (EMTs) and urban search and rescue (USAR) teams.

"Our response is in solidarity with the People of Türkiye who have helped our country, especially in attaining peace in Mindanao," Galvez said.

The Philippines is set to deploy an 85-man team that is composed of personnel two personnel from the OCD, 33 personnel from the medium USAR team of the AFP, 10 from the Metro Manila Development Authority, and nine from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and EMTs from the Department of Health numbering 31.

"We aim for this team to be self sufficient, who can rely on their own, and not a burden to the host country," Galvez added.

Aside from EMTs and USAR teams to be deployed, they will also bring with them goods to be donated to the affected people of the

These goods include clothing and sleeping kits for winter, and hygiene and sanitary kits, which will be provided by the OCD, together with the private sector and local government units.

The team will be deployed to Türkiye for at least two weeks and is set to depart on Wednesday at the earliest via a commercial flight provided by Turkish Airlines.

"This is our contribution to humanity, and the President ordered us for the response teams to prepare for deployment, for the People of Türkiye," Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194655

Marcos wants to ‘rationalize’ AFP promotion system

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7, 2023): Marcos wants to ‘rationalize’ AFP promotion system (By Azer Parrocha)

PROMOTION SYSTEM. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. poses for a photo opportunity with newly sworn in Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (Feb. 7, 2023). Marcos said he wants to “rationalize” the AFP promotion system. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he wants to “rationalize” the promotion system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

He made this remark after administering the oath of office to 77 newly appointed and promoted AFP generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Monday.

This is the first time that happened since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020.

“‘Yung promotion, SOP [standard operating procedure] na ‘yan (Promotion is already SOP). That’s why we did what we did earlier to normalize and I used the word rationalize ‘yung promotions system na ginawa sa AFP (the promotions system being done at AFP),” he said in a media interview after the 2023 Tax Campaign kickoff of the Bureau of Internal Revenue at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

“So this is just another part of that ongoing process. We normalize the process of promotion already and naibalik natin sa dati (brought it back to what it used to be),” he added.

In his speech during the oath-taking ceremony, Marcos urged the military to "keep up with the times" and be more agile in fostering partnerships as the global situation becomes "more and more complicated."

"We, therefore, have to be more agile in our responses not only in the military area but also in diplomacy, also in geopolitical negotiations, and in our partnerships that we foster with our friends and allies around the world," he said.

Marcos, as AFP commander-in-chief, underscored the need to strengthen the country's collaboration with various government agencies, allies, partners and other stakeholders to safeguard and advance the country's national interest amid tensions and challenges.

He said the role of the AFP and its commanders has changed hence the need to continue to keep up with the times.

"Not only has the situation – the geopolitical situation become more complex, even the method of warfighting has become more complex with the new technologies, with the new capabilities that have become available to us," he added.

NSC priority programs

Meanwhile, Marcos on Tuesday convened the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss its priority programs in a meeting at the state dining room of Malacañan Palace.

Marcos was joined by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr. and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile.

NSC Director General and National Security Adviser (NSA) Secretary Eduardo Año presented his report to the President.

Año was accompanied by NSC Deputy Director Generals Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Nestor Herico and Marlo Guloy, as well as National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Director Ernesto Torres Jr.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194642