Marcos: PH won't yield, waver on asserting West PH Sea rights

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): Marcos: PH won't yield, waver on asserting West PH Sea rights (By Priam Nepomuceno)

JOINT SAIL. The Philippine Navy missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna and the Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Ottawa conduct a bilateral sail activity in an undisclosed location in the West Philippine Sea in this Sept. 21, 2023 photo. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his third SONA on Monday (July 22, 2024) said Manila will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS). (Photo courtesy of AFP Western Command)

MANILA – The Philippines will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

"In the face of challenges to our territorial sovereignty, we will assert our rights and interests in the same fair and pacific way that we have always done. Proper diplomatic channels and mechanisms under the rules-based international order remain the only acceptable means of settling disputes," the Chief Executive said in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa.

Marcos also emphasized that peace and community-building are always the Philippines' way, especially since the country would be the chair and host of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

He also stressed the Philippines would find ways to de-escalate tensions in contested areas with other claimant nations without compromising the country's position and principles.

With more Filipinos realizing the need to secure and defend its vast territories, Marcos said the government would continue beefing up its defenses and engage with like-minded states to improve its security.

"We are now more conscious as a people and strategic in heightening our aerial and maritime domain awareness. We are continuing to strengthen our defense posture, both through developing self-reliance and through partnerships with like-minded states," he noted.

The WPS is a real part of the country's patrimony, the President stressed.

"Ito ay atin. At ito ay mananatiling atin, hangga’t nag-aalab ang diwa ng ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas. Pagtitibayin at palalaguin natin ang kamalayan at kaalaman ng buong bansa, at titiyaking maipapasa natin ito sa ating kabataan at ating susunod na mga salinlahi. (This is ours. And it will remain ours as long as our love for our country, the Philippines, remains ablaze. We will strengthen our nation's consciousness and knowledge over this territory and we will see to it that it is passed down to our youths and the next generation)," he added.

Marcos said Philippine laws on its maritime zones and archipelagic sea lanes would make sure that this intergenerational mandate would take root in the hearts and minds of our people.

In this regard, the President expressed his thanks, along with those of the nation, to the Armed Forces, the Coast Guard, and Filipino fisherfolks who continue to go about their lawful mandate in the WPS.

He added that this gratitude was only fitting for the sacrifices they made while standing guard over this vital waterway.

Fighting insurgency

Marcos also noted the elimination of active guerilla fronts due to the ongoing efforts by the military and government to ensure that the New People's Army (NPA) was neutralized decisively.

"We have come a long way in our quest for a lasting and inclusive peace. No guerilla fronts remain active across the country today. Only seven weakened groups remain to be dismantled, and they are the subject of focused operations," he added.

Along with the assertion of government might, Marcos said they were offering peace, community development, and reintegration programs for those who have returned to the fold of the law.

"Through a comprehensive and transformative approach, we have rebuilt not only lives but also conflict-affected communities," he added.

The peace agreement is now in its concluding phase, the President said.

"Former combatants now live peaceful and productive lives in their respective communities. Some of our former rebels are now absorbed into the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) serving in the defense of our Republic; while others are now part of the PNP BARMM (Philippine National Police Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao)" he added.

Marcos said the government would honor and fully comply with its remaining deliverables and commitments under these peace agreements.

"In November last year, we signed proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels. A month later, and then in June of this year, the House of Representatives and the Senate issued their respective resolutions concurring with these amnesty proclamations," Marcos noted.

Congressional support for these initiatives is a testament to the whole nation’s sincere desire for peace, the President said.

Laudable

As this developed, 50-year-old Mike Dela Cruz, a resident of Sampaloc, Manila, and a native of Ilocos Sur, expressed his support to the Chief Executive's ongoing programs.

Dela Cruz was spotted carrying a bobblehead of the President during the "Tunog ng Bagong Pilipinas" concert in front of the Sandiganbayan and Commission on Audit at Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City.

He lauded Marcos' governance for the past three years and expressed that he and all his family are supporters of the President. Dela Cruz also expressed hope that the Chief Executive could help curb the prices of goods in the market in the coming days.

His views were shared by Jover Dailo, 35, a barbecue vendor residing in Makati City, who also expressed hope that the President will be able to find a remedy against high prices of goods.

He lauded Marcos for ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving the Philippines' competitiveness. (with reports from Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229510

PH, US to discuss ways to enhance alliance during Manila talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): PH, US to discuss ways to enhance alliance during Manila talks (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

IMPROVED COOPERATION. US State Secretary Antony Blinken (left) and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo speak to foreign and local media after their bilateral meeting at Sofitel Manila on March 19, 2024. Manalo said an improved cooperation with Washington is vital for the Philippines to build its capacity not only for maritime but also for humanitarian operations. (PNA photo by Joyce Rocamora)

MANILA – The Philippines and the United States are set to discuss ways to bolster their 72-year-old alliance in the upcoming Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) next week.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday announced that Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. will meet with US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III in Manila for the 2+2 on July 30.

This will be the 4th iteration of the Philippine-US ministerial dialogue, following the meeting held in Washington DC last April 2023.

“The Philippines-U.S. Alliance has contributed to the maintenance of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region for over 70 years,” the DFA said in a press statement.

“During this year’s 2+2 Dialogue, the four Secretaries are expected to discuss how to further enhance our two countries’ ironclad commitment to this alliance while enabling a common program in support of the rules-based international order, enhanced economic ties, broad-based prosperity, and solutions to evolving regional and global security challenges,” it added.

In the last 2+2 meeting, the two states issued a joint statement that reaffirmed full support for international law, modernizing shared defense capabilities of the alliance, advancing economic and environmental security, and cultivating vibrant and robust people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Blinken and Austin are also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. during their visit to Manila, the DFA said.

The US has reiterated its “ironclad commitment” to the alliance on numerous occasions in the face of Beijing’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.

During his visit to Manila on March 19, Blinken said the US would continue to bolster its maritime, defense, as well as economic cooperation with Manila.

He said Washington DC’s foreign policy is to reinvigorate existing partnerships in the region and “build nuance that are fit” for the needs of its partner country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229554

PH eyes defense pacts with 3 more countries (By Priam Nepomuceno)

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): PH eyes defense pacts with 3 more countries (By Priam Nepomuceno)

DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. (File photo courtesy of the DND)

MANILA – The Philippines is looking to sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Canada, France, and New Zealand. Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. has said.

"We are going to work on an RAA hopefully with Canada, with France, (also) with New Zealand and with other countries that escaped my memory," Teodoro said in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel on Monday afternoon.

The DND chief also said a similar pact with these countries will center on interoperability between their military forces.

"They will all look the same, they will allow (the) Armed Forces of these different countries to operate with the Philippine Armed Forces within the Philippine territorial jurisdictions and vice versa so it will increase interoperability between these countries," he added.

The country's first RAA signed with Japan last July 8, aims to lift restrictions on military-to-military exchange between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan Self Defense Force.

The DND chief said he hopes to start talks with these countries on a possible RAA by next year.

"Hopefully by next year, it is not easy to negotiate the RAA, and that's why we want a Defense Transformation Bill to come out because our staff is limited," he added.

However, despite the DND only having 267 employees, Teodoro said that negotiating and finishing the RAA with Japan is a big accomplishment.

"I'm very proud with what everybody is doing in this department despite its handicap so I hope our legislators listen and capacitate us so that we can do more," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229567

AFP grateful for PBBM's special mention in SONA

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23, 2024): AFP grateful for PBBM's special mention in SONA (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMAND CONFERENCE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) leads the Mid-Year Command Conference of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on July 4, 2024. The AFP on Tuesday (July 23) thanked the President for recognizing its efforts in protecting the country's territories during his third State Of the Nation Address (SONA). (Photo courtesy of Presidential Photojournalists Association)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for recognizing its efforts in protecting the country's territories, including the West Philippine Sea (WPS), during his third State Of the Nation Address (SONA).

"The AFP expresses our gratitude for the President's recognition of our ongoing efforts in safeguarding our territory. This acknowledgment serves as an inspiration to all our personnel who tirelessly serve to ensure the safety and sovereignty of our beloved country," AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

She added that they take immense pride in the sacrifice and heroism of AFP members who continue to guard the nation.

"The President's recognition confirms that our efforts are noticed and boosts morale and dedication in fulfilling our duties. We will not be deterred from performing our mission to protect and uphold the sovereignty of our country. Your AFP will not yield nor waver," Padilla stressed.

Marcos, in Monday's address, thanked the military, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Filipino fishermen who continue to go about their lawful mandate in the WPS.

He also said the military, police and the PCG continuously undergo capacity-building and asset-upgrading for these to be more capable of preserving the country's peace and territorial defense.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229568

AFP echoes Marcos: No yielding in resolve to protect WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): AFP echoes Marcos: No yielding in resolve to protect WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) conducting another maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea on Sept. 22, 2023. (File photo courtesy of AFP Western Command)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has committed to rallying behind President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s tough stance on asserting Manila's rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in his State of the Nation Address on Monday.

"The AFP will continue to uphold our mission, ensuring that our sovereignty and territorial integrity are safeguarded and that we remain vigilant in our commitment to national defense. We will not yield and waver and will face open and covert threats to our national security with the courage of a true Filipino patriot," AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in a statement Tuesday.

While they are always ready to defend the country, Brawner said they also fully support the President's strategy of a fair and pacifist approach that emphasizes rules-based international order and efforts toward de-escalation.

"We believe in the importance of maintaining peace and stability through diplomatic means and constructive dialogue," he added.

Brawner said the AFP stands behind Marcos' vision of building strong relationships with like-minded nations to promote mutual security and cooperation.

He also thanked the President's unwavering support for AFP modernization efforts and the push towards self-reliance, which are essential for strengthening the country's defense capabilities.

"As we shift our focus towards external defense, we are thankful for the President's acknowledgment of our accomplishments in addressing internal security threats. We fully commit to the whole-of-nation approach and the fulfillment of our government's obligations and agreements aimed at ending decades of strife and ushering just and lasting peace in the country," Brawner said.

Meanwhile, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the support of the Commander-in-Chief for their efforts in the WPS will further strengthen their resolve to respond to the call of duty.

"Our men and women especially those in our occupied features are thankful their sacrifices are recognized. Your Navy will not yield, nor will we waiver in ensuring the integrity of our territory," he added.

Number of Chinese ships in WPS down to 80

As this developed, the PN on Tuesday said the number of Chinese vessels spotted in various features in the WPS from July 16 to 22 has reached 80.

This is greatly lower than the 105 assorted vessels monitored from July 9 to 15.

These can be broken down into nine China Coast Guard Vessels (CCGVs), two from the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and 69 from the Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMVs).

The PN said these ships were located in the following features:

--Bajo de Masinloc, two CCGV and seven CMMVs;

--Ayungin Shoal, four CCGVs, two PLAN, and 14 CMMVs;

--Pagasa Island, one CCGV and 10 CMMVs;

--Kota Island, two CMMVs;

--Lawak Island, one CMMV;

--Panata, one CMMV;

--Sabina Shoal, one CCGV and six CMMVs.

Mandatory prayer for peace

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued an "oratio imperata" (mandatory prayer) for peace to reign in the WPS.

In its "Oratio Imperata”, which will be prayed nationwide from July 25, 2024 to Jan. 1, 2025, the Catholic bishops are seeking divine intercession for the easing of tensions in these waters.

"Spare us, Lord, from the horrors of war. Hear our pleas as we cry out to You. Have mercy on us, Lord; rescue us from the malevolent forces that influence world leaders," said the CBCP prayer released Tuesday.

The prayer was approved during the 128th CBCP Plenary Assembly held recently in Mindanao.

"We pray for our leaders entrusted with making crucial decisions for our nation. We place all our hopes in You," it added.

Archdioceses and dioceses across the country have been given copies of the prayer.

CBCP president Bishop Pablo Virgilio David earlier said the issuance of the mandatory prayer is the Catholic Church’s contribution to the easing of tensions in the WPS. (with report from Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229592

Presidential security ready to secure VP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): Presidential security ready to secure VP (By Darryl John Esguerra)

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte (PNA file photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

MANILA – The Presidential Security Command (PSC) is ready to guard Vice President Sara Duterte, its Commander said Tuesday, following the recall of police officers from her protective security detail.

“The Presidential Security Command is ready to ensure the security and safety of the Vice President,” Brig. Gen. Nelson Morales, PSC commander, told reporters in a text message.

Earlier, Duterte confirmed that 75 Police and Security and Protection Group (PSPG) officers assigned to her have already been recalled by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the recall of Duterte’s police security detail is meant to rationalize deployment to security operations.

He also said the Vice President’s security is under the jurisdiction of the PSC and the PSPG only complements security details.

Formerly known as the Presidential Security Group, the PSC is a unit under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mandated to provide protection escort for the President, Vice President and their immediate families, as well as honor guard duties for visiting dignitaries.

To recall, the AFP activated in 2022 the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group before Duterte became the second highest official of the land.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229649

PH sustains diplomatic approach to deescalate tensions in SCS

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): PH sustains diplomatic approach to deescalate tensions in SCS (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

DIPLOMATIC APPROACH. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Charles Jose joins the post-SONA discussion session on Good Governance, Peace and Order, and Security on Wednesday (July 24, 2024). Jose said the Philippines will continue pursuing a diplomatic approach and uphold the rule of law in the South China Sea. (Photo courtesy of RTVM)

MANILA – The Philippines will continue pursuing a diplomatic approach and uphold the rule of law in the South China Sea, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as it expounds on the Marcos administration’s work to defend the country's rights in the West Philippine Sea through peaceful means.

Following the third State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., DFA Undersecretary Charles Jose said the Philippines will not waver in pursuing the peaceful settlement of disputes in line with international law in the area.

“In the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine position remains firm. We will continue to assert our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in our maritime zones and find ways forward through diplomacy and dialogue pursuant to what the President articulated during the SONA,” he said in the post-SONA discussions on Wednesday.

“We are committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes through international law. Our actions will continue to be firmly anchored on the rules-based international order that is governed by international law, particularly UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea,” he added.

Jose cited as example the 9th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism meeting with China, which provided the momentum for a series of consultations that led to the recently concluded “Arrangement on the Principles and Approaches” that will be observed during the Philippines' resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal.

The official said this understanding, reached without prejudicing the Philippine and Chinese positions over the South China Sea, is a “positive contribution to deescalate tensions” in the region.

Marcos in his SONA on Monday said the Philippines will neither yield nor waver in asserting its maritime rights.

He maintained that the West Philippine Sea, which refers to the maritime areas of the country in the South China Sea, is no mere figment of imagination.

“Ang West Philippine Sea ay hindi isang kathang-isip natin lamang. Ito ay atin. At ito ay mananatiling atin, hangga’t nag-aalab ang diwa ng ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas (The West Philippine Sea is not just a figment of imagination. It is ours. And it will remain ours as long as our love for our country, the Philippines, remains ablaze),” Marcos said.

Manila-based geopolitical analyst Don McLain Gill of the De La Salle University said Marcos has successfully articulated that the Philippines’ position in the region is rooted on facts.

“By stating that the WPS is not a figment of imagination, the president sent a strong message to China who claims a large percentage of our EEZ (exclusive economic zone) based on a historical basis that is not grounded on international law. The WPS is rooted on facts and on international law,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

“While empowering the military, the president reiterated the continuous goal of resolving disputes through peaceful means and based on international law- another veiled hit at China which has been pursuing its expansionist ambitions by breaking principles enshrined under UNCLOS and disregarding the 2016 Arbitral Ruling,” he added.

The Philippines, China and several other coastal states have overlapping territorial claims over the South China Sea.

Beijing continues to reject the UNCLOS-based arbitration award insisting on its claims over the vast trade route, including the country’s waters within the West Philippine Sea.

Preparing for ASEAN 2026

On the multilateral arena, Jose said the Philippines is preparing to host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the next two years.

This as Marcos emphasized that peace and community-building would be the Philippines’ clarion call, especially when the country serves as chair and the host of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

The ASEAN National Organizing Council or ASEAN NOC, Jose said, is leading the preparations to ensure the orderly and seamless hosting of the landmark event.

Jose likewise highlighted the country’s selection as the host of the Loss and Damage Fund Board.

“Through this mechanism, the Philippines will continue to leverage its leadership in climate action and its goodwill with developing nations in promoting climate equity,” he said.

He also noted the adoption by the UN Human Rights Council of the Philippine-led resolution titled “Promoting and Protecting the Enjoyment of Human Rights of Seafarers.”

This resolution is the first-ever on this subject to be introduced and adopted in the UNHRC.

“Rest assured that in the pursuit of the national interest, the DFA will continue to strengthen national security, contribute to economic growth, and protect the interest and welfare of overseas Filipinos through the strategic conduct of diplomacy,” Jose said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229754

Blinken condoles with PH typhoon victims, says US ready to provide aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26, 2024): Blinken condoles with PH typhoon victims, says US ready to provide aid (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (PNA file photo)

MANILA – United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday conveyed his sympathies to the Philippines after the devastation caused by Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon, which killed 14 people and injured two.

In a call with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Blinken reiterated that the US “stands ready to provide assistance.”

“Secretary Blinken further shared condolences for those in the Philippines who have died or been displaced as a result of Typhoon Gaemi and recent monsoon-related flooding. The Secretary noted that the United States stands ready to provide assistance,” the US State Department said in a readout.

Metro Manila had been placed under a state of calamity as the intensified southwest monsoon brought torrential rains that triggered massive flooding across the capital region and several other parts of the country.

About 1.3 million people were affected by the calamity, more than 200,000 of whom are currently taking shelter in evacuation centers, according to the latest data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

The foreign missions of New Zealand, the European Union, China, Australia, and Germany in Manila have also offered support upon the government’s request.

During the call, Blinken and Manalo also discussed the 2+2 US-Philippines Ministerial Dialogue, to be held in Manila on July 30, where the two officials will be joined by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Philippine defense chief Gilberto Teodoro for talks on wider cooperation.

“Secretary Blinken and Foreign Secretary Manalo reiterated the importance of the United States-Philippines Alliance and spoke about shared priorities, both in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world,” the State Department said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229843

PH, UK want to expand ties on maritime domain awareness

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 26, 2024): PH, UK want to expand ties on maritime domain awareness (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

COOPERATION. Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Marshall Louis Alferez and United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Southeast Asia department head Matthew Findlay (10th and 11th from left) join other members of the Philippine and UK delegations at the conclusion of the 2nd Philippine-UK Maritime Dialogue in London on July 5, 2024. The DFA on Friday (July 26) said the Philippines and the UK are seeking to strengthen cooperation on maritime domain awareness. (Photo courtesy of DFA)

MANILA – The Philippines and the United Kingdom (UK) are seeking to strengthen cooperation on maritime domain awareness (MDA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) shared on Friday.

During the 2nd Philippine-UK Maritime Dialogue in London on July 5, senior officials from the DFA and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) discussed ways to further deepen collaboration on maritime and ocean-related issues.

Key discussions during the dialogue included enhancing cooperation on MDA, safety of international merchant shipping vessels and seafarers, cybersecurity challenges in the maritime sector, strategic communications, crisis management, the law of the sea, marine environment, and ocean governance, the DFA said in its belated news release.

DFA Assistant Secretary Marshall Louis Alferez led the Philippine delegation, which included officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Space Agency and the Philippine Embassy in London.

The UK delegation was headed by the FCDO, including Head of Defence and Security Partnerships Department Jason Rheinberg, Legal Director Andy Murdoch, Head of South East Asia Department Matthew Findlay and British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils.

The two sides reaffirmed their adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and underscored the importance of upholding the rules-based international order in the South China Sea and the greater Indo-Pacific region.

The UK then conveyed its support for the Philippines' diplomatic approach to managing tensions in the South China Sea and called for adherence to the legally binding 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award under UNCLOS.

The dialogue also explored legal cooperation and exchanged views on the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea's recent Advisory Opinion on climate change and international law (Case No. 31), deep seabed mining and other pressing maritime and ocean related issues.

“Both sides commended the depth and comprehensiveness of the discussions, reflecting a strong and growing partnership between the two countries. Both sides expressed commitment to implement the dialogue's outcomes and agreed action points,” the DFA said.

Apart from the dialogue, the Philippine delegation visited the Joint Maritime Security Centre and the Maritime Trade Operation Information Centre in Portsmouth, both of which form pillars of the UK’s inter-agency architecture on maritime security at home and abroad.

Alferez also had a separate meeting with UK FCDO Director General for Indo-Pacific, Middle East and North Africa Owen Jenkins to discuss strategic issues related to the two countries’ maritime security cooperation and South China Sea matters.

The Philippine-UK Maritime Dialogue is a regular bilateral mechanism for the exchange of views on maritime and ocean related matters of mutual concern.

It is meant as the platform for elaborating existing engagements and identifying areas for expanding maritime cooperation.

The inaugural dialogue was held in Manila in February 2023.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229899

Army hunts gunmen who harassed patrol base in MagSur, killing soldier

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 22, 2024): Army hunts gunmen who harassed patrol base in MagSur, killing soldier (By Edwin Fernandez)

HUMANITARIAN WORK. Soldiers of the Army’s 99th Infantry Battalion help during the feeding program in Maguindanao del Sur while others secure the perimeter of an evacuation center in flood-affected Datu Salibo, Maguindanao del Sur, on Sunday (July 21, 2024). On the same day, gunmen harassed an Army base in Barangay Pagatin of the town, killing one and hurting two other soldiers. (Photo courtesy of 99IB)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Military pursuit operations are ongoing against a group of suspected local terrorists who harassed on Sunday government soldiers helping civilians affected by recent flash floods in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao del Sur.

Lt. Col. Roden Orbon, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the harassment occurred at about 1 p.m. while soldiers were manning checkpoints and flood control units during relief distribution activities for flood victims in Barangay Pagatin.

A soldier under the 99th Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur, was killed, and two others were slightly injured in the attack.

“We did not expect that to happen since we are helping our people there who were victims of calamities,” Orbon said in a radio interview on Monday.

Datu Salibo is one of the 17 towns in Maguindanao del Sur that is underwater due to floods brought by localized thunderstorms.

“Despite the harassment, we will continue to serve and help our civilians affected by floods,” Orbon said, adding that security has been increased to prevent similar attacks.

About 10 gunmen believed to be remnants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) or the Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group operating in the province carried out the attack.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229460

2 more Eastern Samar towns cleared from NPA threats

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 24, 2024): 2 more Eastern Samar towns cleared from NPA threats (By Sarwell Meniano)

NPA-FREE. Officials in Hernani, Eastern Samar release white pigeons as a sign of peace during a ceremony on July 23, 2024. The Philippine Army on Wednesday (July 24) said the municipalities of Hernani and Maydolong have been formally declared completely free from the threats of the New People's Army. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – Two more towns in Eastern Samar have been formally declared completely free from the threats of the New People's Army (NPA), the Philippine Army said on Wednesday.

In a statement on Wednesday, Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said the declaration led by the town mayors of Hernani and Maydolong marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability.

“With no sightings of armed rebels for several years now, these towns have achieved insurgency-free status and, officially, stable internal peace and security conditions (SIPS),” Vestuir said.

A town earns SIPC status if there has been no NPA activity in the area in the past two years, and no resident is identified as an active armed rebel, the 802nd Infantry Brigade commander told the Philippine News Agency in a text message.

Ceremonies were held on July 23 to highlight the declarations, which included the signing of memoranda of agreements and pledges of commitment, along with the simultaneous release of white doves, symbolizing peace and new beginnings.

In attendance were Hernani Mayor Amado Candido, Maydolong Mayor Godofredo Garado, police officials, Department of the Interior and Local Government representatives, and members of the provincial and municipal task forces to end local communist armed conflict.

Earlier this year, officials held the same declaration in the towns of Giporlos, Mercedes, San Julian, Sulat, and Taft in Eastern Samar.

Vestuir said these municipalities were cleared of communist terrorist group influence in 2022 and have since achieved conflict-manageable status.

The Army official disclosed that the NPA platoon running in the mountains of Eastern Samar and Samar provinces has significantly weakened this year.

From 47 members with 43 firearms in the third quarter of 2023, Apoy Platoon's strength dropped to just 16 members with 25 firearms as of the second week of June 2024.

Most have surrendered under the Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families initiative.

The military said several areas in the region have long been peaceful; hence, the declaration of the SIPS condition is just a formal and official manifestation of the commitment of local leaders and people to sustain the peace, and never allow any threat groups to gain a foothold in their communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229680

NPA squad leader killed in Eastern Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 25, 2024): NPA squad leader killed in Eastern Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)

CLASH. Photo from the Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade showing the location of a clash that killed a squad leader of the New People's Army on Thursday (July 25, 2024). The slain rebel was Joel Guarino alias Duran, the squad leader of squad 2 of the recently dismantled Apoy Platoon of the NPA, according to the Philippine Army's 78th Infantry Battalion (78IB). (Photo from PA 802nd IB)

TACLOBAN CITY – A top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in a clash between government forces and rebels in the upland Osmeña village in General MacArthur, Eastern Samar on Thursday.

The Philippine Army's 78th Infantry Battalion (78IB) identified the slain rebel as Joel Guarino alias Duran, the squad leader of squad 2 of the recently dismantled Apoy Platoon of the NPA.

Lt. Col. Joseph Bugaoan said in a statement that government forces had an armed encounter with a band of seven NPA combatants early Thursday while troops were conducting development and security operations in the upland village of General MacArthur.

No one was hurt from the government side during the 20-minute firefight.

After the clash, soldiers recovered several war paraphernalia, including one caliber .45 pistol, one homemade grenade, various war materials, and documents with high intelligence value.

Bugaoan attributed the successful operation to the collective effort of the community and the government to finally end the local communist armed conflict.

“The people tipped off the presence of these NPAs, that is why our soldiers were able to track their movement. But they were fired upon when the rebels saw the incoming troops,” Bugaoan said in an update sent to reporters Thursday night.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for tracking the remnants of the recently dismantled Apoy platoon.

“The neutralization of Guarino left the remnants of the newly dismantled platoon leaderless and without direction. Now, they have become just a roving band of bandits, hiding in the mountains to survive,” Vestuir said.

The Apoy platoon has only 15 remaining members as of mid-2024.

He said this is another breakthrough in their campaign to win peace in the province of Eastern Samar as he calls for the remaining members to give up the armed struggle now that their leader is gone.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229833

U.S. told Philippines it made ‘missteps’ in secret anti-vax propaganda effort

Posted to Reuters (Jul 26, 2024): U.S. told Philippines it made ‘missteps’ in secret anti-vax propaganda effort (By Christopher Bing and Karen Lema)

WASHINGTON, July 26 (Reuters) - The U.S. Defense Department admitted that it spread propaganda in the Philippines aimed at disparaging China’s Sinovac vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a June 25 document cited by a former top government official earlier this month.
The U.S. response to the Philippines was recounted in a podcast by Harry Roque, who served as spokesman for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Reuters subsequently reviewed the document, which hasn’t been publicly released by either government. The news agency was able to verify its contents with a source familiar with the U.S. response.

“It is true that the (Department of Defense) did message Philippines audiences questioning the safety and efficacy of Sinovac,” according to the document, which references information sent from the U.S. Defense Department to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of National Defense. According to the document, the Pentagon also conceded it had “made some missteps in our COVID related messaging” but assured the Philippines that the military “has vastly improved oversight and accountability of information operations” since 2022.

The U.S. admission followed a June 14 Reuters investigation that revealed how the Pentagon launched a secret psychological operation to discredit Chinese vaccines and other COVID aid in 2020 and 2021, at the height of the pandemic. As a result of the Reuters investigation, the Philippine Senate Foreign Relations Committee launched a hearing into the matter and sought a response from the U.S.
According to the June 25 document, Pentagon officials concluded its anti-vax campaign was “misaligned with our priorities.” It says the U.S. military told Filipino officials that operatives “ceased COVID-related messaging related to COVID-19 origins and COVID-19 vaccines in August 2021.”
The artificial intelligence pioneer on Thursday announced the launch of SearchGPT.

The Philippines’ defense and foreign affairs departments did not respond to requests for comment about the U.S. military’s admission that it ran the propaganda program. A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department referred Reuters to the Defense Department for comment. Pentagon spokesman Pete Nguyen declined to confirm the U.S. response cited in the document. But he acknowledged the Pentagon did distribute “social media content about the safety and efficacy of Sinovac.”

At the time the Pentagon launched its campaign, national security officials in Washington worried that China was exploiting the pandemic to negotiate important geopolitical deals and undermine U.S. alliances internationally by sending aid to the Philippines and other nations.
The clandestine psychological operation uncovered by Reuters wasn’t limited to the Philippines. It also targeted developing countries across Central Asia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia in 2020 and 2021. The Philippines and those other nations were, at the time, heavily reliant on China’s Sinvoac to inoculate their populations against the deadly virus.

Among Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines was among those hit hardest by the coronavirus. By 2024, COVID had killed almost 67,000 Filipinos, and the number of infections there had reached more than 4 million, according to World Health Organization data.

Working with a group of defense contractors and other non-military partners, the U.S. used networks of online bots and other phony social media accounts to influence foreign audiences, Reuters found. The news agency identified a network of hundreds of fake accounts on X, formerly Twitter, that closely matched descriptions shared by former U.S. military officials familiar with the Philippines operation. When Reuters asked X about the accounts, the social media company removed the profiles after independently determining they were part of a coordinated bot campaign. The Reuters article showcased a handful of these posts as examples of the messaging.

Pentagon spokesman Nguyen said an initial review by the Defense Department last month “found that the U.S. military was not responsible for the troubling social media content related to the Philippines” cited in the Reuters report. Asked whether the social media accounts with those particular posts were handled by contractors or other non-military partners working on behalf of the U.S. government, Nguyen declined to say. He also declined to answer questions about U.S. military anti-vax propaganda efforts across Central Asia and the Middle East.

In exposing the Pentagon’s anti-vax propaganda campaign, Reuters interviewed more than two dozen current and former U.S officials, military contractors, social media analysts, academic researchers and public health experts. The health experts called the propaganda campaign indefensible, saying it put innocent lives at risk.

In a statement to Chinese media after the Reuters investigation in June, a Sinovac spokeswoman blasted the U.S. military. “Stigmatizing vaccination will lead to a series of consequences, such as a lower inoculation rate, the outbreak and spread of disease, social panic and insecurity, as well as crises of confidence in science and public health,” said Sinovac spokeswoman Yuan Youwei.

The Reuters investigation has spurred a Senate investigation in the Philippines led by Senator Imee Marcos, head of the Foreign Relations committee. At a hearing on June 25, Marcos described the U.S. military campaign as “evil, wicked, dangerous, unethical.” She questioned whether it violated international law and wondered whether the Philippines had any legal recourse.

https://www.reuters.com/world/us-told-philippines-it-made-missteps-secret-anti-vax-propaganda-effort-2024-07-26/

98 rebels surrender in Antique under whole-of-nation approach

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 25, 2024): 98 rebels surrender in Antique under whole-of-nation approach (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)

SUCCESSFUL ELCAC. Antique Police Provincial Office Deputy Director for Operations Lt. Col. Angelo Pueblos (second from left) reports on the successful implementation of the whole-of-the-nation approach in the province on Thursday (July 25, 2024). He said 98 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered from 2023 until July 24 in Antique province. (PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The government’s whole-of-the-nation approach or End to Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) program encouraged 98 rebels in Antique to return to the fold of law since 2023, according to the Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO).

APPO Deputy Director for Operations, Lt. Col. Angelo Pueblos, said 44 of the former rebels surrendered in 2023 and 58 for this year.

Data from the Antique Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office showed that as of today, 43 former rebels have received assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, consisting of PHP50,000 as livelihood or reintegration assistance, PHP15,000 as immediate assistance, and remuneration of their surrendered firearms.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended PHP20,000 under the Sustainable Livelihood Program.

Pueblos said the DSWD, through its provincial counterpart, is still profiling the remaining surrenderees so that they could qualify for the package of assistance under the ECLIP.

“Not all of the surrenderees have been issued with the Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) Certificates,” Pueblos said in his report on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Arturo Balgos Jr, commanding officer of the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, said the number of surrenderees proves that the ELCAC program had been successful in dismantling the Southern Front Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) that operates in municipalities of San Remigio, Sibalom, Hamtic and in the adjacent municipalities of Iloilo province.

“There is no more fund generation or extortion activities among the businessmen in Antique now,” Balgos said.

He said that they continue to appeal to the remaining insignificant number of the communist terrorist group (CTG) to surrender and return to their normal lives.

The Philippine Army will remain in Antique or Panay province to sustain their program and prevent the revitalization of the CTG, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229826

Soldiers deployed to protect civilians after clashes in MagNor town

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 25, 2024): Soldiers deployed to protect civilians after clashes in MagNor town (By Edwin Fernandez)

PROTECTING CIVILIANS. Soldiers and police are deployed in three adjoining villages of Datu Odin Sinsuat, town, Maguindanao del Sur province, on Thursday (July 25, 2024) following hostilities involving Moro clans that already killed one and wounded three others. Over 200 families have fled to safer grounds to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. (Photo courtesy of Mark Tayco/DXMS-Cotabato)

COTABATO CITY – About a hundred soldiers, backed by Simba armoured personnel carriers, were deployed in the coastal villages of Datu Odin Sinsuat town, Maguindanao del Norte province following clashes between armed men that left one dead and three injured before dawn Thursday.

The clashes also sent hundreds of families to safer grounds to ensure safety and avoid getting caught in the crossfire.

Lt. Colonel Roden Orbon, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the soldiers were deployed to ensure the safety of civilians.

“The safety of civilians, especially women and children, are our priorities,” Orbon said in a radio interview.

Hostilities erupted on Wednesday night and continued until dawn Thursday in the adjoining villages of Mompong, Linek, Badak, and Kusiong, all in Datu Odin Sinsuat.

The fatality was identified as a certain Saidali Mantawil.

Soldiers and police officers put up checkpoints to prevent the conflict from escalating, while allowing local officials and traditional Muslim leaders to facilitate peace negotiations between the warring families.

About 300 displaced families are now housed at the Sarilika Village National High School in Barangay Semba, Datu Odin Sinsuat.

On Thursday, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament member Dr. Susana Anayatin filed a resolution before the regional legislative body urging the police and military authorities to ensure the safety of civilians in Barangay Kusiong.

She said most of the displaced families were peaceful settlers whose livelihood have been affected by the conflict.

Maguindanao del Norte Governor Abdulraof Macacua has condemned the atrocities perpetrated by armed groups who are yet to be officially identified.

“I call upon individuals involved in this incident to cease the hostilities immediately. Conflict and misunderstanding can be resolved through dialogue and peaceful negotiation, not by escalating violence,” he said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229827