PH earns India’s support in upholding sovereignty over WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): PH earns India’s support in upholding sovereignty over WPS (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

HARASSMENT. A Philippine civilian vessel on a supply mission for troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal is blasted with a water cannon by a Chinese coast guard vessel on March 5, 2024. Malacañang said Wednesday (March 27) that India has expressed support for the Philippines in asserting its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea amid China’s incursions in the busy waterway. (Photo courtesy of Armed Forces of the Philippines)

MANILA – India has expressed support for the Philippines in asserting its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid China’s incursions in the busy waterway, Malacañang said Wednesday.

The reaffirmation of India’s support was expressed during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s meeting with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement.

During the meeting, Marcos said getting support from “like-minded countries” such as India in terms of upholding international rules-based order is an “important development” for the Philippines.

Marcos expressed relief that the Philippines and India shared common interests, particularly in maintaining peace and order in the Indo-Pacific region.

“We have many shared interests, primary of that is to maintain the peace in our areas, and so this is a concern now, not only of India or of the Philippines alone, but the entire world,” Marcos told Jaishankar, as quoted by the PCO.

“So, whatever it is that we can do to make the situation better, in partnership with India, will certainly be an important development for us,” he added.

Jaishankar assured Marcos that India is “very resolute” in its position on the South China Sea (SCS) disputes, and acknowledges the validity of the 2016 Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling, which invalidates China’s claim on the Philippine waters.

Jaishankar said it is important for the Philippines, India, and other countries to coordinate and uphold international rules-based laws, such as the United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to maintain peace and order in the Indo-Pacific region.

He also expressed his willingness to become a “charter member” of the Philippines, as far as efforts against China’s aggression in the South China Sea are concerned.

Jaishankar said India is ready to help the Philippines, whatever consequences they may be confronted with.

“So, if you want a country, which actually says will accept the judgement even if it goes against us, we are actually a natural candidate. So, we can be on your ship,” Jaishankar told Marcos.

Marcos thanked Jaishankar and assured the latter that his administration will continue to uphold and adhere to the UNCLOS and international rules-based orders.

The Philippines and India have agreed to accelerate maritime cooperation and hold an inaugural dialogue soon to discuss potential partnerships from marine environment protection down to security, according to a joint statement issued by Jaishankar and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo after their bilateral meeting on Tuesday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221616

PBBM invited to visit India for deeper ties on agri, defense

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): PBBM invited to visit India for deeper ties on agri, defense (By Darryl John Esguerra)

DEEPER TIES. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) welcomes Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (3rd from left) at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday (March 26, 2024). During their meeting, the Indian official extended an invitation for Marcos to visit India to mark the 75th anniversary of the Philippines-India diplomaic relations. (Photo courtesy of Bongbong Marcos Facebook)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received an invitation for a state visit to India, as he looks to strengthen the Philippines’ partnership and economic cooperation with the South Asian giant in the areas of agriculture, infrastructure, and defense.

Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar extended the invitation to Marcos during his courtesy visit in Malacañang on Tuesday.

“Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi looks forward to welcoming Marcos in India for a state visit,” the Indian official said, as quoted by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a news release.

Jaishankar added that it would be nice if the President’s visit coincides with 75th anniversary celebration of the two countries’ diplomatic relations.

Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and India were established in 1949.

President Marcos welcomed the invitation, according to the PCO.

In their meeting, Marcos also expressed gratitude to India for its decision to export 295,000 metric tons of non-basmati white rice to the Philippines and said that he hoped that the two countries would “do better” in terms of cooperation in other areas.

“I’d like to thank you, and please extend my gratitude to your Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) for the timely provision of imported rice that we bought from India. The very critical… a very crucial time since we are in the right now suffering the effects [of] drought,” Marcos said.

“We hope to do better and I hope to continue this trade with India, but not only in agri products but in other [areas]. The ambassador has been working very hard to promote all of these different exchanges," he added.

In October last year, India, the world’s largest rice exporter, approved the shipping of 295,000 metric tons of non-basmati white rice to the Philippines, the highest allocation it gave to a foreign nation after lifting the restriction to specific countries to allay the rise in prices in its domestic market.

India also expressed support for the Philippines in asserting its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea in light of the China Coast Guard’s water cannon attack on a Philippine supply vessel over the weekend.

READ: PH earns India’s support in upholding sovereignty over WPS

READ: PBBM thanks India for rescuing Filipino seafarers in missile-hit ship

Likewise, the President expressed gratitude to the government of India for its “swift and decisive action” in rescuing the crew members of MV True Confidence, which included over a dozen Filipinos, after the merchant ship was attacked by Houthi rebels while plying the Gulf of Aden on March 6.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221626

DOJ charges 2 NPA members for financing terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): DOJ charges 2 NPA members for financing terrorism (By Benjamin Pulta

TERROR FINANCER. Leonor Taguinod Dumlao (in front, in yellow shirts) and a co-accused during a hearing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) last year. The DOJ on Wednesday (March 27, 2024) said Dumlao and Valentin Cruz Tolentino will be charged for violation of Section 8 of R.A. No. 10168, known as "The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012." (PNA photo by Ben Pulta)

MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday said it found compelling evidence to indict two members of the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) responsible for collecting revolutionary funds and financing terrorism.

Following information gathered by the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), accused Leonor Taguinod Dumlao and Valentin Cruz Tolentino will be charged with violation of Section 8 of R.A. No. 10168, known as "The Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012."

The charges will be filed before the Batangas City regional trial court, the DOJ said in a statement.

The two were originally arrested under Oplan Paglalansag in Mindoro Oriental and Rizal in August 2023.

According to reports, the two accused possessed firearms and ammunition with no definite source of income or apparent purpose, prompting authorities to initiate background checks and collaborate with intelligence counterparts from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) to ask the court’s issuance of search warrants against the two.

Authorities discovered firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), IED components, and a significant sum of money.

Dumlao and Tolentino, the DOJ said, are alleged members of the National Finance Commission (NFC) of the CPP/NPA which had direct involvement in demanding money from construction firms, telecommunication companies, bus companies, mining companies, and businessmen in the guise of "revolutionary taxes."

The two were also allegedly responsible for the creation of the National Economic Striking Force (NESF) of the CPP/NPA, which serves as security of the “Rebolusyonaryong Buwis sa Kaaway na Uri” or the RBKU.

“We will never let even an inch of terrorism’s tyranny sow fear among our citizens, much more let the cowards behind this menace run free. This is a time when we Filipinos should fortify our resolve and show our resilience in fighting this evil,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

“If proven guilty, we will not let them go unpunished.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221625

2025 mid-term polls ‘true test’ of peace, democracy in BARMM

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): 2025 mid-term polls ‘true test’ of peace, democracy in BARMM (By Zaldy De Layola)

Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman (File photo)

MANILA – House Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman on Wednesday described the 2025 mid-term elections “true test” of peace and democracy in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

He made this remark was given during the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that paved the way for the establishment of the BARMM.

"Ang halalan sa susunod na taon ang tunay na esensya ng kapayapaan at demokrasyang ipinaglaban natin sa Bangsamoro, dahil may kalayaan na ang mamamayan na pumili ng mga taong mamumuno sa rehiyon (The election next year is the true essence of peace and democracy that we pushed in Bangsamoro, because the people now have the freedom to choose their leaders in the region)," Hataman said in his message.

Hataman, former governor of the now defunct Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), called on residents of BARMM to work together for genuine peace in the Bangsamoro.

He said genuine peace will be realized “if democracy is vibrant and the freedom of the people to choose their leaders becomes a reality."

For the past five years, leaders of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) that make up the Bangsamoro Parliament have all been appointed by the President.

An election was supposed to be conducted in 2022, but Congress extended the life of the BTA for another three years.

Hataman said since the signing of the CAB on Mar. 27, 2014, he was reminded of the significant strides BARMM has made in the pursuit of lasting peace and development in Mindanao.

"This milestone in the peace process marks a pivotal moment in our history, one that has brought hope and optimism to the people of the Bangsamoro," he said.

"As a former governor of ARMM, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the peace process evolved and flourished under the Aquino administration, culminating in its finalization during the Duterte administration" he added.

Hataman said the establishment BARMM is a testament to the unwavering commitment of both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to find a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict in the region.

"Peace is integral to the progress and development of BARMM, and the CAB has provided the framework upon which we can build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all," Hataman said.

"It is crucial that we continue to uphold the principles and provisions outlined in the agreement, ensuring that the gains we have achieved are sustained and further strengthened in the years to come," he added.

He thanked the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) for its efforts in facilitating the peace process and ensuring the successful implementation of the CAB.

"As we celebrate this milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter future for the Bangsamoro people. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, towards the realization of our shared vision of peace, prosperity and unity in the region,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221633

NSC unaware of PH, China 'gentleman's agreement' on WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): NSC unaware of PH, China 'gentleman's agreement' on WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya (File photo)

MANILA – National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said on Wednesday they were unaware of any "gentleman's agreement" that the Philippines entered with China during the past administration regarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"We are not aware of any 'gentleman’s agreement' between China and the Philippines referred to by former secretary Harry Roque. The good former secretary should be one to explain to the public his statements since such an agreement, if it exists, infringes and violates our sovereignty as a nation," Malaya said in a statement forwarded to reporters.

Malaya, also National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) spokesperson, was referring to Roque's claims that former president Rodrigo R. Duterte reportedly had a verbal agreement with China not to construct and repair Philippine facilities in the WPS, including refraining from sending construction materials for BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57).

Roque also clarified that this agreement does not involve the towing or removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

"China has repeatedly claimed that there was an alleged promise to remove or tow away BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. In so far as the NTF-WPS is concerned, we have not seen any document from the former administration that validates or confirms the existence of this so-called 'gentleman’s agreement' and the terms of such agreement under the previous administration," Malaya noted.

The former presidential spokesperson added the agreement was non-binding on the term of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"In any case, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has settled the matter that even if such exists, he has rescinded it. Therefore, China’s repeated reference to such 'promises' serves no purpose as there is no legally binding agreement between the two countries under the Marcos Jr. administration," the NSC official noted.

Malaya also emphasized that the Philippines has not violated the Declaration of Conduct (DOC) as claimed by China.

"As has been seen by the world, the Philippines has acted with self-restraint in the conduct of activities and has not acted to complicate or escalate disputes that affect peace and stability," he added.

Also, Malaya said it was China that has been continually violating the DOC by interfering with a routinary resupply mission to a long-standing Philippine outpost in the WPS by water-cannoning, dangerous maneuvers, and other aggressive and illegal actions which have increased tensions in the vital waterway.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221642

NTF-ELCAC warns public vs. Sison-founded group

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): NTF-ELCAC warns public vs. Sison-founded group (By Benjamin Pulta)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Wednesday cautioned the public against the International League of Peoples’ Struggle (ILPS), an organization formed in 2001 by the founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the late Jose Maria Sison.

“The ILPS, a CPP-initiated organization camouflaged by its self-proclaimed advocacy for social justice and democratic struggles, poses a serious threat to the nation's stability and independence,” NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in a statement.

According to Torres, the group has a membership from over 40 different countries and currently chaired by Len Cooper of Australia.

"From what can be observed, their activities are quite fervent. Even within the UN (United Nations), they are attempting to sway opinions and submit reports that are irrational and, in some cases, not factual, to member countries of the ILPS," he said.

“The ILPS employs a sophisticated strategy aimed at undermining the government through a protracted people's war. They leverage their platform to circulate revolutionary narratives about the Philippines, intending to tarnish the nation's international reputation. By sowing discord and exploiting vulnerabilities, the ILPS seeks to gradually seize control and remodel the government to fit their ideology,” Torres said.

He added that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is “unmasking the motives of questionable foreign organizations and ensuring that foreign aid channels are directed towards legitimate organizations within the Philippines.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221632

Media groups belie Chinese MOFA claims of WPS coverage manipulation

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): Media groups belie Chinese MOFA claims of WPS coverage manipulation (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

NOT MANIPULATED. The Philippine resupply boat Unaizah May 4 being subjected to a water cannon blast by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel as it approached the Ayungin Shoal on March 23, 2024. Media groups on Wednesday (March 27) belied the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s accusation that the journalists who covered the routine Philippine resupply missions were manipulating the materials they release to the public. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – Media groups have belied the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s accusation that the journalists who covered the routine Philippine resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal were manipulating the materials they released to the public.

The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), in a statement Wednesday, dismissed the claim as a “barefaced lie”.

“[T]he association strongly rejects and condemns the false, baseless claims by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying and the Chinese Embassy in Manila that journalists ‘manipulate the videos they recorded’ in South China Sea to project the Philippines as a victim,’” it said.

The group, composed of foreign and Filipino journalists reporting for international media outlets, said it takes “deep offense at the insinuation that the press is a troublemaker and in cahoots with the government to forward a political agenda”.

“Members of FOCAP include both Filipinos and foreign nationals from around the world, some of whom have embedded in these Philippine missions,” it said.

“The claim that the Philippines ‘had [journalists] manipulate’ their footage is a barefaced lie,” it added.

It explained that a free and independent press "reports not what they are told, but what they observe, framed by historical and political context".

“The footage seen in the press is vetted by multiple sources and newsrooms. The work of journalists, including members of FOCAP and especially when carried by multiple media outlets, speaks for itself,” it said.

“The statements by the Foreign Ministry spokesman & Embassy are an insult to the integrity of journalists and an alarming attempt to muzzle an independent press,” it added.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, meanwhile, stated that the Philippine government had “no say” in the production and editorial decisions of reports related to the Ayungin coverage, except for “operational and national security considerations.”

“The media is not a party to the dispute and should not be demonized by parties for airing contending views on the issue and unflattering reports on incidents in the West Philippine Sea,” it said.

The West Philippine Sea refers to the areas in the South China Sea over which the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying on March 26 claimed that each time the Philippines delivered supplies to the Filipino troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre, “they had many journalists on board, and had them manipulate the videos they recorded” to “project the Philippines as a victim”.

The accusation follows the viral March 23 water cannon use of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) against Unaizah May 4 that was ferrying supplies to BRP Sierra Madre, leading to heavy damage to the civilian boat and injuries to its personnel.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian on March 25 confirmed the CCG actions, saying it was “justified, lawful, professional, restrained, and beyond reproach”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221678

PBBM: Gov't to work harder for BARMM dev’t

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27, 2024): PBBM: Gov't to work harder for BARMM dev’t (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday pledged that his administration would work harder to ensure peace and development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In his message for the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), Marcos said the national government remains committed to giving the Bangsamoro people a better future.

“Recognizing the importance of inclusivity and respect for diverse cultures, there were certainly many challenges but we persevere. Today, as your president, I stand before you, committed to fulfilling that promise,” Marcos said in a video message uploaded on his official Facebook page.

“We have seen progress and much needs to be done,” he added.

The CAB paves the way for the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, an enabling law that establishes the BARMM.

Marcos, a former legislator, recalled that he was one of the lawmakers who drafted the Bangsamoro law.

He promised that as the country’s chief executive, he would continue working with the Bangsamoro government for BARMM’s prosperity and progress.

“A decade after the CAB brought hope in our nation, we remain committed to empowering the Bangsamoro to chart their own prosperous future by enacting vital legislation and ensuring fair elections in 2025,” Marcos said.

Marcos also stressed that the development of the Bangsamoro region is crucial in building a “peaceful and unified Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines”.

“Peace is our legacy. Let us build it together,” he said. “A stronger BARMM means a stronger Mindanao. A stronger Mindanao means a stronger Philippines.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221681

PH Navy receives 10 power generators for WPS stations

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 28, 2024): PH Navy receives 10 power generators for WPS stations (By Priam Nepomuceno)

POWERING WPS STATIONS. PN chief Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr (center, 2nd row) together with AFPSLAI President and chief executive officer, retired Navy Vice Adm. Gaudencio Collado Jr., (5th from right, 2nd row), headquarters staff and AFPSLAI team during the turnover of the power generator sets at the Navy headquarters in Manila on March 26, 2024. These 10 power generator sets will be sent to the country's stations in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of the PN)

MANILA – The Armed Forces and Police Savings and Loans Associations, Inc. (AFPSLAI) has donated some 10 power generator sets to the Philippine Navy (PN), which would be deployed to the country's stations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

These equipment were formally received by Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. from AFPSLAI president and chief executive officer, retired Vice Adm. Gaudencio Collado Jr. in simple rites at the Philippine Navy (PN) headquarters in Manila on Tuesday.

"During the handover, the FOIC (Flag-Officer-in-Command underscored the importance of these mission-critical equipment in assisting personnel who put their lives on the line to defend the borders of our nation against all forms of threats, particularly in the WPS," PN spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos said in a statement Wednesday night.

During the turnover, Collado said the PN's role in defending the country's sovereignty and territory has become even more critical and that the AFPSLAI strongly supports the service in developing "a strong naval force capable of protecting the country’s maritime interests and securing the Filipino people."

He also said the equipment donation symbolizes AFPSLAI’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility and solidarity.

Meanwhile, Adaci expressed his sincere gratitude to the AFPSLAI team for their support to the welfare of the men and women in uniform over the years.

“Your contribution fulfills an immediate necessity for our troops and serves as a reminder that we can rely on your support in times of need," he stressed.

Littoral Combat Force gets new commander

As this developed, the Philippine Fleet (PF) announced that Capt. Lued Lincuna was appointed acting commander of the Littoral Combat Force (LCF) on Wednesday, replacing Commodore Carlo Lagasca who is set to retire from the military service.

PF spokesperson Lt. Giovanni Badidles, in a statement Thursday, said the turnover ceremonies were presided over by Fleet commander Rear Admiral Renato David at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

The PF commander lauded Lagasca for leading with distinction and dedication to the PN's mission and the well-being of its personnel. This is aside from upholding the highest standards of operational proficiency.

"His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the LCF capabilities that ensure its readiness to meet evolving challenges in maritime operations," David said.

Lincuna is a seasoned and decorated officer with a wealth of experience in naval operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221683

US to expedite aid initiatives to boost PH military's capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 28, 2024): US to expedite aid initiatives to boost PH military's capabilities (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The United States has agreed to expedite assistance aimed at beefing up the various capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

US Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Lloyd Austin III made this pledge following a phone call with Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. on Wednesday.

"They agreed to bolster bilateral and multilateral cooperation with like-minded partners in the South China Sea and committed to accelerate a number of bilateral initiatives to enhance information-sharing, interoperability, and capability enhancements for the AFP," the DOD statement said.

Both defense chiefs also underscored their countries' shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific grounded in transparency, the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

During the call, Austin reiterated the US commitment to the Philippines following the March 23 incident where a Filipino resupply ship to Ayungin Shoal was harassed and damaged by a severe water cannon attack from China's Coast Guard ships that also resulted in injuries among some of the crew.

"Secretary Austin reaffirmed the ironclad US commitment to the Philippines following the PRC (People's Republic of China) Coast Guard and maritime militia’s dangerous obstruction of a lawful Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal on March 23. He emphasized U.S. support for the Philippines in defending its sovereign rights and jurisdiction and reiterated that the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to both countries 'armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft—including those of its Coast Guard—anywhere in the Pacific, to include the South China Sea," the DOD statement added.

The two officials discussed the importance of preserving the rights of all nations to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows.

They also stressed that the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling is final and binding on the Parties and called on China to abide by its obligations under international law.

"The officials discussed historic momentum in US-Philippine defense ties and reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening the US-Philippine alliance, which has upheld peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region for over seventy years," it added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221686

UK: Bangsamoro one of world’s few successful peace processes

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 28, 2024): UK: Bangsamoro one of world’s few successful peace processes (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao administration building in Cotabato City. (File photo)

MANILA – The United Kingdom has hailed the creation of the Bangsamoro region as one of the world’s few successful peace processes as it joined the Philippines in celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agreement of the Bangsamoro (CAB).

In a statement dated March 27, 2024, the UK Embassy in Manila congratulated the government, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Bangsamoro people on the milestone.

“Today, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is one of the few successful peace processes in the world. We commend all the parties for the way in which they have worked together in the pursuit of long-lasting peace over the last ten years,” it said.

“As a member of the International Contact Group, the UK has been a long-standing supporter of the peace process,” it added.

The UK has been supporting the Mindanao peace process and has shared its own experience from the Northern Ireland Good Friday Agreement and the Scottish devolution process.

“Our programmes focused on strengthening governance, advancing the role of women in politics and peace and security, and fostering active civic participation,” it said.

“We remain strongly committed to supporting the Philippines and the BARMM in maintaining peace and promoting inclusive development in the BARMM in the years ahead,” it added.

In a separate post on X, Japanese Ambassador-designate to the Philippines Endo Kazuya also joined the country in commemorating a decade since the CAB signing.

“My heartfelt congratulations on the 10th Anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). Here’s to a decade of milestones and to even greater strides towards enduring peace in the Bangsamoro region in the years ahead,” he said.

Japan is also among the many countries that support the economic growth, basic public service delivery, and improvement of governance in BARMM.

Most recently, it announced a USD2.58 million (PHP141.9 million) project that will rehabilitate four peace and security stations in Mindanao as a way to sustain the peace efforts in the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221688

PCG, Indian Coast Guard boost partnership thru oil spill exercise

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 28, 2024): PCG, Indian Coast Guard boost partnership thru oil spill exercise (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and its Indian counterpart have boosted their partnership through a four-day oil pollution exercise that ended on Thursday.

In an interview over Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon on Wednesday, PCG spokesperson, Rear Admiral Armando Balilo, said the scenario during the exercise was a major oil spill that necessitated the help of nearby countries.

The goal of the exercise, he said, was to develop interoperability between the PCG and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

“[Tinignan din] natin ang best practices na pwede nating makuha sa ICG (We also looked at the best practices that we can learn from the ICG),” Balilo said.

The exercise was held during the visit of the ICG’s second pollution control vessel Samura Pahererar which arrived in the Port Area, Manila on Monday.

The ship is designed for the containment, recovery, and dispersal of oil spills.

The visit is the result of a memorandum signed last year that aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The cooperation agreement centers on capacity-building, environmental protection, maritime enforcement, maritime security, and maritime search and rescue.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221698

Marcos mounts ‘countermeasure’ vs. China aggression in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 28, 2024): Marcos mounts ‘countermeasure’ vs. China aggression in WPS (By Darryl John Esguerra)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PNA File Photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the implementation of a “response and countermeasure package” in the face of China’s continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a statement released on social media Thursday, Marcos said he has met with the country’s security and defense officials in the past few days following the water cannon attack of China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia on a Philippine supply vessel in Ayungin Shoal that left three crew members injured.

The President also bared that he has been in “constant communication” with representatives of the country’s allies, partners, and friends in the international community.

“They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our Sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific,” Marcos said.

“I have given them our requirements and we have been assured that they will be addressed,” he added.

According to the Chief Executive, the “response and countermeasure package” will be implemented by national government agencies and instrumentalities over the succeeding weeks.

He did not divulge specifics of the countermeasure package but he described it as “proportionate, deliberate, and reasonable in the face of the open, unabating, and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks” of China.

“We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience,” Marcos said.

“Filipinos do not yield,” he stressed.

At least three Navy personnel aboard the Unaizah May 4 (UM4) were injured over the weekend after the two vessels of the CCG water cannoned their vessel carrying supplies for the Filipino troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre, the grounded ship that serves as the country’s outpost in Ayungin Shoal.

The UM4 sustained heavy damaged after the incident, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The Department of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy to convey the Philippines’ strong protest over the incident, the second time this month that Filipino crew members were injured in a confrontation between Chinese and Philippine ships in the disputed territories.

Several countries have also expressed support to the Philippines as they condemned China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea and called for restraint and adherence to the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and the 2016 Arbitral decision.

China claims virtually the entire South China Sea, and maritime features in the West Philippine Sea that are well within Manila’s exclusive economic zone.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled to dismiss China’s sweeping historical claims to the waterway, but Beijing has refused to acknowledge the ruling.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221723

RPOC-6 backs ‘stable internal peace, security’ declaration for NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 25, 2024): RPOC-6 backs ‘stable internal peace, security’ declaration for NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

PEACE AND ORDER MEETING. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson (3rd from right), chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council-Western Visayas (Region 6), presides over the body’s first quarter meeting in Bago City on Monday (March 25, 2024). The RPOC-6 passed a resolution, declaring a state of stable internal peace and security in Negros Occidental. (Photo courtesy of PIO Negros Occidental)

BACOLOD CITY – The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-Western Visayas (Region 6) approved the declaration of a state of stable internal peace and security (SIPS) in Negros Occidental during its first quarter meeting in Bago City, just south of Bacolod, on Monday.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who chairs the RPOC-6, said that with the approval of the SIPS in Negros Occidental, the same status will also be declared in Negros Oriental.

Lacson, however, said the SIPS declaration does not mean that the troops of the Philippine Army will already leave Negros Island.

“It only just shows that the campaign against the local terrorist groups is really gaining ground. That is why the membership of the RPOC supported the resolution,” he told reporters.

Lacson said that after SIPS status of Negros Occidental was approved by the RPOC-6, the resolution will be presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is expected to be invited to declare a state of SIPS in Negros Island.

“They are trying to do it by April or the latest, May,” he added.

The 3rd Infantry Division (ID) recommended the declaration of a state of SIPS in Negros Occidental after government troops dismantled all five guerrilla fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army in Negros Island.

These are the Central Negros 1, Central Negros 2, South East Front, Northern Negros Front and South West Front.

Lacson earlier said he hopes that “investors will feel more confident” coming here “knowing that there is peace and order” in Negros Occidental.

“We’ve always wanted to reach that level that there is stable peace and order situation,” he said.

Last month, Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of 3ID, said having the SIPS status in a locality would attract investments, generate jobs and bring more opportunities to its people.

“The conditions have been met in Negros Island and the SIPS can now be formally declared by our concerned local chief executives,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221520

15 BIFF members yield in Maguindanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26, 2024): 15 BIFF members yield in Maguindanao Sur

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Fifteen members of the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) took the chance to return to mainstream society while observing the fasting month of Ramadan.

Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Brigade, welcomed Monday afternoon the surrender of the BIFF members.

Pangcog and Col. Michael Glenn Manansala, commander of the 6th Infantry Battalion (6IB), presented the combatants to Maguindanao del Sur Vice Governor Nathaniel Midtimbang during the surrender program and distribution of livelihood assistance at the 6IB headquarters in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, according to a news release.

The returnees also turned in their high-powered firearms.

“They are active members of the local terrorist group,” Manansala, who facilitated the surrender of the violent extremists, said.

Among the firearms that the BIFF turned over to the military were an 81mm mortar launcher and two homemade cal. 50 Barrett rifles.

Each surrenderer received a sack of rice and monetary and non-monetary assistance from the provincial government.

“Tell your colleagues to reconsider returning to the fold of the law and live peacefully with your loved ones,” Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, Army 6th Infantry Division commander, said.

Since January, at least 30 violent extremists operating in two Maguindanao provinces have surrendered to the military.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1221542