From GMA News (Jan 18): PCG to check damage to Tubbataha Reef after US warship grounding
The Philippine Coast Guard will send a team to Tubbataha Reef to check for a possible oil spill and damage to the coral reef there, after a United States Navy minesweeper ran aground in the area earlier this week. Coast guard spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Armand Balilo said the team will include divers who will check on the damage to the coral reef, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported Friday. Balilo was quoted in the report as saying the Coast Guard may also ask for an explanation from the US ship's crew on the circumstances that led to the incident.
On Thursday, the US Navy said the USS Guardian, its mine countermeasures ship, ran aground at Tubbataha Reef at 2:25 a.m. Jan. 17 while transiting the Sulu Sea. "The Avenger-class ship had just completed a port call in Subic Bay, Olongapo City and was en route to her next port of call when the grounding occurred," the US Navy said. It added the ship got stuck on the reef, and the crew is working "to determine the best method of safely extracting the ship." An earlier US Navy report said no one was reported hurt in the incident.
The US Navy said the USS Guardian, forward-deployed to Sasebo in Japan, was commissioned on Dec. 16, 1989. It has a crew of about 80.
Possible damage to reef
An earlier effort to check the condition of the area where the warship has been stuck were hampered by the refusal of US Navy personnel to allow park rangers to inspect the place.
In expressing concern, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park supervisor Angelique Songco said, "An attempt [by park rangers to board the Navy ship] after identifying themselves was not entertained. They were told instead that the US embassy will negotiate with Tubbataha and that another US navy boat will be arriving."
"There is environmental damage here. Our rangers need to assess the coral damage but they cannot even go near the site," Songco added.
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a 97,030-hectare World Heritage Site consisting of two coral atolls that harbor a wide range of marine species including large marine life such as manta rays, sharks, and turtles.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/290868/news/nation/pcg-to-check-damage-to-tubbataha-reef-after-us-warship-grounding
Thursday, January 17, 2013
NPA seize soldier, policeman in Compostela Valley
From InterAksyon (Jan 18): NPA seize soldier, policeman in Compostela Valley
A soldier and a policeman were seized by New People’s Army guerrillas who had set up a checkpoint in Laak town, Compostela Valley Thursday, the military said. Major Jacob Thaddeus Obligado, commander of the Army's 10th Civil Military Operations Battalion, said 30 rebels, 12 of them in military uniform, set up the checkpoint at Sitio Mangob, Barangay Imelda at around 9 a.m.
The captives were identified as Private First Class Jezreel Culango, from a unit based in San Isidro, Davao del Norte and on his way to visit his girlfriend in Barangay Mangloy, and Police Officer 1 Ruel Pasion of the San Isidro police. The rebels then headed north towards Sitio Tugpahan, also in Barangay Imelda. Obligado said police and military personnel launched pursuit operations to rescue the two.
The incident happened the same day Lieutenant General Emmanuel Bautista assumed command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, an occasion the Communist Party of the Philippines greeted with orders to the NPA to step up offensives and two days after the longest ceasefire between the rebels and government forces ended on January 15.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/52988/npa-seize-soldier-policeman-in-compostela-valley
A soldier and a policeman were seized by New People’s Army guerrillas who had set up a checkpoint in Laak town, Compostela Valley Thursday, the military said. Major Jacob Thaddeus Obligado, commander of the Army's 10th Civil Military Operations Battalion, said 30 rebels, 12 of them in military uniform, set up the checkpoint at Sitio Mangob, Barangay Imelda at around 9 a.m.
The captives were identified as Private First Class Jezreel Culango, from a unit based in San Isidro, Davao del Norte and on his way to visit his girlfriend in Barangay Mangloy, and Police Officer 1 Ruel Pasion of the San Isidro police. The rebels then headed north towards Sitio Tugpahan, also in Barangay Imelda. Obligado said police and military personnel launched pursuit operations to rescue the two.
The incident happened the same day Lieutenant General Emmanuel Bautista assumed command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, an occasion the Communist Party of the Philippines greeted with orders to the NPA to step up offensives and two days after the longest ceasefire between the rebels and government forces ended on January 15.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/52988/npa-seize-soldier-policeman-in-compostela-valley
Cultural worker Ericson Acosta out of jail, taken to National Kidney Institute
From InterAksyon (Jan 18): Cultural worker Ericson Acosta out of jail, taken to National Kidney Institute
Political prisoner Ericson Acosta (center), accompanied by Public Attorney's Office head Persida-Rueda Acosta (right) is flanked by supporters who welcomed him on his arrival at the NAIA3 Friday morning. Acosta, a poet and former editor of the UP Collegian, was granted temporary release by a Samar court to undergo treatment at the National Kidney Institute. (photo courtesy of Kaparatan)
Cultural worker and former UP Collegian editor Ericson Acosta, one of the best-known political prisoners in the country, arrived in Manila Friday morning and was taken to the National Kidney Institute for treatment of renal problems after he was granted reprieve by a Samar trial court.
The human rights alliance Karapatan, one of the groups working for Acosta’s release since his arrest by the military more than two years ago, quoted him as telling relatives and supporters who welcomed him at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 that it was his “first time to ride an airplane.”
Acosta, 40, who authorities claim is a leader of the communist rebels movement, was arrested in San Jorge town and was detained for 23 months at the Calbayog Sub-Provincial Jail while being tried by the Gandara Regional Trial Court on charges of illegal possession of explosives. His family and supporters maintain he was doing volunteer research work for a local peasant group when he was captured.
The court allowed his temporary release to undergo a medical check-up and treatment after Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Rueda-Acosta visited him with a medico-legal consultant who confirmed he is suffering from nephritis, a condition characterized by blood in the urine, lower back pains, fevers and painful urination and that no hospital in Samar is equipped to treat Acosta’s condition.
“Matagal na naming hinihintay ang mapatingnan si Eric (We have long waited to have Eric examined),” Karapatan quoted Acosta’s 80-year old mother, Liwayway, as saying. The group said Liwayway went to the airport alone because her husband, who has been working ceaselessly for their son’s release, also had an appointment with a doctor to treat a spinal condition.
“Gusto nga sana niyang sumama kay Attorney Persida pero hindi na niya kinaya ang sakit (He even wanted to go with Attorney Persida but he could no longer stand the pain),” she said. The PAO head has acknowledged that the case against Acosta was questionable because “there were no private complainants; these are all Army people in the list…”
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr., a convenor of the Free Ericson Acosta Campaign, blamed the detainee’s condition on his alleged torture and incarceration at “the hands of a government that politicizes political opposition and what it arbitrarily tags as ‘enemies of the state’.” Karapatan said Acosta’s temporary release was granted amid a spike in the arrest of activists nationwide. Since last month, the group said authorities have arrested 28 members of activist organizations, among them government workers.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/52989/free-for-now--cultural-worker-ericson-acosta-out-of-jail-taken-to-national-kidney-institute
Political prisoner Ericson Acosta (center), accompanied by Public Attorney's Office head Persida-Rueda Acosta (right) is flanked by supporters who welcomed him on his arrival at the NAIA3 Friday morning. Acosta, a poet and former editor of the UP Collegian, was granted temporary release by a Samar court to undergo treatment at the National Kidney Institute. (photo courtesy of Kaparatan)
Cultural worker and former UP Collegian editor Ericson Acosta, one of the best-known political prisoners in the country, arrived in Manila Friday morning and was taken to the National Kidney Institute for treatment of renal problems after he was granted reprieve by a Samar trial court.
The human rights alliance Karapatan, one of the groups working for Acosta’s release since his arrest by the military more than two years ago, quoted him as telling relatives and supporters who welcomed him at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 that it was his “first time to ride an airplane.”
Acosta, 40, who authorities claim is a leader of the communist rebels movement, was arrested in San Jorge town and was detained for 23 months at the Calbayog Sub-Provincial Jail while being tried by the Gandara Regional Trial Court on charges of illegal possession of explosives. His family and supporters maintain he was doing volunteer research work for a local peasant group when he was captured.
The court allowed his temporary release to undergo a medical check-up and treatment after Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Rueda-Acosta visited him with a medico-legal consultant who confirmed he is suffering from nephritis, a condition characterized by blood in the urine, lower back pains, fevers and painful urination and that no hospital in Samar is equipped to treat Acosta’s condition.
“Matagal na naming hinihintay ang mapatingnan si Eric (We have long waited to have Eric examined),” Karapatan quoted Acosta’s 80-year old mother, Liwayway, as saying. The group said Liwayway went to the airport alone because her husband, who has been working ceaselessly for their son’s release, also had an appointment with a doctor to treat a spinal condition.
“Gusto nga sana niyang sumama kay Attorney Persida pero hindi na niya kinaya ang sakit (He even wanted to go with Attorney Persida but he could no longer stand the pain),” she said. The PAO head has acknowledged that the case against Acosta was questionable because “there were no private complainants; these are all Army people in the list…”
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr., a convenor of the Free Ericson Acosta Campaign, blamed the detainee’s condition on his alleged torture and incarceration at “the hands of a government that politicizes political opposition and what it arbitrarily tags as ‘enemies of the state’.” Karapatan said Acosta’s temporary release was granted amid a spike in the arrest of activists nationwide. Since last month, the group said authorities have arrested 28 members of activist organizations, among them government workers.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/52989/free-for-now--cultural-worker-ericson-acosta-out-of-jail-taken-to-national-kidney-institute
AFP confirms operations near Tampakan mine site
From MindaNews (Jan 17): AFP confirms operations near Tampakan mine site
The military here confirmed ongoing military operations near the boundary of South Cotabato and Cotabato provinces that could include areas near the mine site of Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) in Tampakan, South Cotabato. Col. Edgardo “Boogie” de Leon, operations officer of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said a composite team of soldiers from the different military units under the 1002nd Brigade is moving towards the boundary near the area of responsibility of the neighboring 602nd Brigade.
De Leon, however, declined to reveal the exact location and direction of the government forces that are said to be running after heavily armed members of the New People’s Army who recently celebrated the 44th founding anniversary of its political arm, the Communist Party of the Philippines.
“We cannot divulge their exact positions for security reasons,” he said.
The military officer said intelligence reports from the 602IB allegedly monitored a column of NPA rebels getting into the direction of a remote military detachment during the Christmas season when a mutually agreed ceasefire was supposed to be in effect, prompting the AFP to launch the operations. De Leon said it is a routine security operation.
MindaNews earlier reported that five military trucks arrived in Tampakan Tuesday evening coming from the direction of Kiblawan in Davao del Sur. The report quoted Capt. William Rodriguez, civil military officer of the 1002IB, as saying in a text message the soldiers reportedly “passed by the mines development site towards their detachments in Tampakan town.”
The statement of Rodriguez contradicted De Leon, who said the troop movement by the 1002IB is a coordinated operation with the 602IB aimed at flushing out NPA rebels in the area. The MindaNews report earlier said fugitive tribal leader Daguil Capion saw the soldiers arrive in Tampakan Tuesday evening.
In October, Capion’s wife Juvy and two sons were killed when elements from the 27th Infantry Battalion raked their hut in Kimlawis, Kiblawan with heavy automatic and machinegun fire. Capion cheated death by opting to sleep outside their house the night before the soldiers swooped down on their hut. The killing was immediately condemned by local Catholic churches here and international human rights groups.
Capion took arms in protest over the continued mining operations of SMI in the quad boundaries of Tampakan in South Cotabato, Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, Malungon in Sarangani and Kiblawan in Davao del Sur. He has since admitted responsibility over the ambush-slayings of several people that included three SMI drill contractors and a security consultant and two security guards of the mining company. A warrant of arrest has been issued against Capion who is said to be leading at least 15 heavily armed Blaan tribe members who are opposing the mining operations of SMI.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2013/01/18/afp-confirms-operations-near-tampakan-mine-site/
The military here confirmed ongoing military operations near the boundary of South Cotabato and Cotabato provinces that could include areas near the mine site of Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) in Tampakan, South Cotabato. Col. Edgardo “Boogie” de Leon, operations officer of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said a composite team of soldiers from the different military units under the 1002nd Brigade is moving towards the boundary near the area of responsibility of the neighboring 602nd Brigade.
De Leon, however, declined to reveal the exact location and direction of the government forces that are said to be running after heavily armed members of the New People’s Army who recently celebrated the 44th founding anniversary of its political arm, the Communist Party of the Philippines.
“We cannot divulge their exact positions for security reasons,” he said.
The military officer said intelligence reports from the 602IB allegedly monitored a column of NPA rebels getting into the direction of a remote military detachment during the Christmas season when a mutually agreed ceasefire was supposed to be in effect, prompting the AFP to launch the operations. De Leon said it is a routine security operation.
MindaNews earlier reported that five military trucks arrived in Tampakan Tuesday evening coming from the direction of Kiblawan in Davao del Sur. The report quoted Capt. William Rodriguez, civil military officer of the 1002IB, as saying in a text message the soldiers reportedly “passed by the mines development site towards their detachments in Tampakan town.”
The statement of Rodriguez contradicted De Leon, who said the troop movement by the 1002IB is a coordinated operation with the 602IB aimed at flushing out NPA rebels in the area. The MindaNews report earlier said fugitive tribal leader Daguil Capion saw the soldiers arrive in Tampakan Tuesday evening.
In October, Capion’s wife Juvy and two sons were killed when elements from the 27th Infantry Battalion raked their hut in Kimlawis, Kiblawan with heavy automatic and machinegun fire. Capion cheated death by opting to sleep outside their house the night before the soldiers swooped down on their hut. The killing was immediately condemned by local Catholic churches here and international human rights groups.
Capion took arms in protest over the continued mining operations of SMI in the quad boundaries of Tampakan in South Cotabato, Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, Malungon in Sarangani and Kiblawan in Davao del Sur. He has since admitted responsibility over the ambush-slayings of several people that included three SMI drill contractors and a security consultant and two security guards of the mining company. A warrant of arrest has been issued against Capion who is said to be leading at least 15 heavily armed Blaan tribe members who are opposing the mining operations of SMI.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2013/01/18/afp-confirms-operations-near-tampakan-mine-site/
Outgoing AFP chief Dellosa bares death threats in war on corruption
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 17): Outgoing AFP chief Dellosa bares death threats in war on corruption
Revealing he had received death threats, outgoing Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Gen. Jessie Dellosa, on Saturday said the military needs to increase the number of personnel handling internal affairs in the course of improving and correcting purchase and budgetary procedures. He said battles in the front lines are not as difficult as battles within the Armed Forces of the Philippines, now that changes in the protocol for procurement of supplies had unearthed more anomalous transactions, this time in AFP-run hospitals.
Dellosa discussed this partly in his speech after he was given a testimonial parade by the Philippine Military Academy in honor of his retirement on Jan. 20, when he turns 56 years old. “In the furtherance of security sector reform, I would also like to emphasize that battles are fought not only in the front lines but also in our headquarters and workplaces to realize a more professional, efficient and morally upright military institution,” he said.
“All too often internal reform is much more difficult, as institutional and cultural barriers have prevented us from acknowledging our shortfalls and deficiencies. But change we must and malpractices we must spurn,” Dellosa said. “My experience in this office leads me to say that the AFP needs to enhance the capability of [its] investigative staff and offices in view of the increasing and sensitive tasks they handle,” he said. These offices and personnel, he said, probe abuses or infractions “that could potentially tarnish the image of the military.”
In a press conference, Dellosa said part of the reforms his administration undertook involved fixing the procedures for restocking and equipping military hospitals, where more anomalous transactions had been discovered. He, however, declined to provide details of the investigation and the amount of money involved in these irregularities. “Actually, we have received death threats,” Dellosa said. “But I have to continue this. Not only me but also other officers who are involved in reforms. We don’t mind [the threats], for as long as we are doing the right thing.”
Dellosa said his administration had reviewed the procurement and financial transactions of supply firms with hospitals, like the AFP Medical Center (V. Luna Hospital) “which did not receive the proper attention before and which turned up many anomalies.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/341747/outgoing-afp-chief-dellosa-bares-death-threats-in-war-on-corruption
Revealing he had received death threats, outgoing Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Gen. Jessie Dellosa, on Saturday said the military needs to increase the number of personnel handling internal affairs in the course of improving and correcting purchase and budgetary procedures. He said battles in the front lines are not as difficult as battles within the Armed Forces of the Philippines, now that changes in the protocol for procurement of supplies had unearthed more anomalous transactions, this time in AFP-run hospitals.
Dellosa discussed this partly in his speech after he was given a testimonial parade by the Philippine Military Academy in honor of his retirement on Jan. 20, when he turns 56 years old. “In the furtherance of security sector reform, I would also like to emphasize that battles are fought not only in the front lines but also in our headquarters and workplaces to realize a more professional, efficient and morally upright military institution,” he said.
“All too often internal reform is much more difficult, as institutional and cultural barriers have prevented us from acknowledging our shortfalls and deficiencies. But change we must and malpractices we must spurn,” Dellosa said. “My experience in this office leads me to say that the AFP needs to enhance the capability of [its] investigative staff and offices in view of the increasing and sensitive tasks they handle,” he said. These offices and personnel, he said, probe abuses or infractions “that could potentially tarnish the image of the military.”
In a press conference, Dellosa said part of the reforms his administration undertook involved fixing the procedures for restocking and equipping military hospitals, where more anomalous transactions had been discovered. He, however, declined to provide details of the investigation and the amount of money involved in these irregularities. “Actually, we have received death threats,” Dellosa said. “But I have to continue this. Not only me but also other officers who are involved in reforms. We don’t mind [the threats], for as long as we are doing the right thing.”
Dellosa said his administration had reviewed the procurement and financial transactions of supply firms with hospitals, like the AFP Medical Center (V. Luna Hospital) “which did not receive the proper attention before and which turned up many anomalies.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/341747/outgoing-afp-chief-dellosa-bares-death-threats-in-war-on-corruption
2 killed, 1 hurt as Moros clash at North Cotabato border
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 17): 2 killed, 1 hurt as Moros clash at North Cotabato border
At least two men were killed and another was wounded when armed groups belonging to rival Moro factions clashed over territorial claims in a village bordering North Cotabato and Maguindanao on Wednesday, according to the military. Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the clash between members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front prompted authorities to block off a portion of the highway leading to the village to prevent motorists and commuters from getting caught in the crossfire.
Hermoso, quoting police, said the clash started when MILF members, led by a certain Commander Maguinda Sindangan, attacked the house of a certain Eddie Buisan in Barangay Malaya, Kabacan town past noon on Wednesday. Followers of Buisan, who is known as Commander Iranon Mansa of the MNLF, returned fire leading to a gunfight that ceased only after a team from the ceasefire committees of the government and MILF arrived. The highway was reopened to traffic when the clash ended, said Hermoso. He said the groups of Sindangan and Buisan each suffered a casualty. Their identities have yet to be determined. Hermoso said the feud is between the two armed leaders and not between the MILF and MNLF.
The ceasefire committees of the government and MILF are trying to find a peaceful solution to the land dispute between the two men, said Hermoso. The MILF is a group that broke off from the MNLF in protest of the MNLF’s signing of the Tripoli Agreement with the then Marcos dictatorship. The agreement was hardly enforced and the MNLF went to war fighting alongside the MILF in some of the bloodiest battles of the Moro rebellion. In 1996, the MNLF entered into a peace agreement with the then Ramos administration, leaving out the MILF in the process. The MILF in October last year entered into a framework peace agreement with the Aquino administration.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/342223/2-killed-1-hurt-as-moros-clash-at-north-cotabato-border
At least two men were killed and another was wounded when armed groups belonging to rival Moro factions clashed over territorial claims in a village bordering North Cotabato and Maguindanao on Wednesday, according to the military. Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the clash between members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front prompted authorities to block off a portion of the highway leading to the village to prevent motorists and commuters from getting caught in the crossfire.
Hermoso, quoting police, said the clash started when MILF members, led by a certain Commander Maguinda Sindangan, attacked the house of a certain Eddie Buisan in Barangay Malaya, Kabacan town past noon on Wednesday. Followers of Buisan, who is known as Commander Iranon Mansa of the MNLF, returned fire leading to a gunfight that ceased only after a team from the ceasefire committees of the government and MILF arrived. The highway was reopened to traffic when the clash ended, said Hermoso. He said the groups of Sindangan and Buisan each suffered a casualty. Their identities have yet to be determined. Hermoso said the feud is between the two armed leaders and not between the MILF and MNLF.
The ceasefire committees of the government and MILF are trying to find a peaceful solution to the land dispute between the two men, said Hermoso. The MILF is a group that broke off from the MNLF in protest of the MNLF’s signing of the Tripoli Agreement with the then Marcos dictatorship. The agreement was hardly enforced and the MNLF went to war fighting alongside the MILF in some of the bloodiest battles of the Moro rebellion. In 1996, the MNLF entered into a peace agreement with the then Ramos administration, leaving out the MILF in the process. The MILF in October last year entered into a framework peace agreement with the Aquino administration.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/342223/2-killed-1-hurt-as-moros-clash-at-north-cotabato-border
Military clears men in Atimonan shooting
From Rappler (Jan 17): Military clears men in Atimonan shooting
If the military is to be believed, what happened in Atimonan, Quezon, on January 6 was a shootout. Maj Gen Allan Luga, commander of the military's Southern Luzon Command, said that according to his men involved in the incident the 13 suspects fired at them at a checkpoint, prompting them to return fire. This contradicts reports showing that the police and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have ruled out a shootout. All the 13 victims were killed, with most of them shot in the head. Luga said he's taking the Special Forces soldiers' word for it -- for now. Thus, not one of the 25 Army soldiers involved in the incident has been subjected to administrative proceedings. They are restricted to barracks, though.
Luga said he based his judgment on the statement made by Lt Col Abang, the Special Forces battalion commander assigned to the Atimonan checkpoints. "During the checkpoint operations when they blocked the two vehicles, they were fired upon that's why policemen and soldiers fired back," Luga told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo after the turnover ceremonies for the new chief of staff, Lt Gen Emmanuel Bautista. "Malinaw na sinabi sa akin ng SF Battalion commander na inunahan sila," Luga added. Luga said he will allow the soldiers to be investigated by the NBI.
At the Philippine National Police, Director General Alan Purisima said they are now readying administrative charges against the police officers involved in the shooting. Purisima said the case of the police officers led by Supt Hansel Marantan is now with the Internal Affairs Service. The PNP earlier said noted the police violated several police operational procedures in the conduct of the checkpoint, such as not wearing the proper uniform and using unmarked vehicles.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/19926-military-clears-men-in-atimonan-shooting
If the military is to be believed, what happened in Atimonan, Quezon, on January 6 was a shootout. Maj Gen Allan Luga, commander of the military's Southern Luzon Command, said that according to his men involved in the incident the 13 suspects fired at them at a checkpoint, prompting them to return fire. This contradicts reports showing that the police and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have ruled out a shootout. All the 13 victims were killed, with most of them shot in the head. Luga said he's taking the Special Forces soldiers' word for it -- for now. Thus, not one of the 25 Army soldiers involved in the incident has been subjected to administrative proceedings. They are restricted to barracks, though.
Luga said he based his judgment on the statement made by Lt Col Abang, the Special Forces battalion commander assigned to the Atimonan checkpoints. "During the checkpoint operations when they blocked the two vehicles, they were fired upon that's why policemen and soldiers fired back," Luga told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo after the turnover ceremonies for the new chief of staff, Lt Gen Emmanuel Bautista. "Malinaw na sinabi sa akin ng SF Battalion commander na inunahan sila," Luga added. Luga said he will allow the soldiers to be investigated by the NBI.
At the Philippine National Police, Director General Alan Purisima said they are now readying administrative charges against the police officers involved in the shooting. Purisima said the case of the police officers led by Supt Hansel Marantan is now with the Internal Affairs Service. The PNP earlier said noted the police violated several police operational procedures in the conduct of the checkpoint, such as not wearing the proper uniform and using unmarked vehicles.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/19926-military-clears-men-in-atimonan-shooting
US Navy ship damaged coral in Tubbataha
From Rappler (Jan 17): US Navy ship damaged coral in Tubbataha
A US Navy minesweeper ran aground near Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park management is now investigating coral damage, a park official said on Thursday, January 17. Protected area superintendent and head of the Tubbataha management office Angelique Songco told Rappler that the ship "entered without a permit" in violation of section 19 of Republic Act 10067 or the Tubbataha Reefs National Park (TRNP) Act of 2009. Asked if there will be damage to the coral, she said: "Definitely, yes."
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park official explained that the amount of damage to the coral will be determined by a joint team of the USS Guardian and personnel from the marine park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Songco added that the once the damage is assessed, the owner of the ship – the US Navy – can expect to pay P12,000 per sqm of destroyed reefs. "The most probable cause is mis-navigation," said Major Oliver Banaria, commander of the AFP's 6th Civil Relations Group based in Palawan.
In a statement, the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs said it is closely coordinating with the US Embassy, the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Coast Guard on this. The DFA also said it expects the Philippine government to look into the incident.
Rangers barred by US Navy
The US ship ran aground in Tubbataha Reef early morning Thursday. A statement from the US Pacific Fleet revealed that the USS Guardian, an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship, ran aground at 2.25 am near the world heritage site, which is about 98 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa City.
The Park sent its Rangers Thursday morning to visit the ship but were barred by the Americans, according to Songco. "We have not yet been able to approach the boat as there are armed soldiers on deck," she said. As well as unauthorized entry, the USS Guardian is also liable to be charged with destroying and disturbing resources inside the marine protected area under section 26 of the TRNP Act. Park officials have not heard yet from the US Navy, the source added.
US ship came from Subic
Banaria said the incident was reported to them at 3 am. The ship came from a routine port call in Subic, Zambales last Monday, January 14. "The Avenger-Class ship had just completed a port call in Subic Bay, Olongapo City and was en route to her next port of call when the grounding occurred. The ship is currently stuck on the reef, approximately 80 miles east-southeast of Palawan. The crew is currently working to determine the best method of safely extracting the ship," the US Navy added in its statement. No injuries were reported among the 80-man crew and no fuel leak has been discovered.
A Nomad Islander plane from the Philippine Air Force conducted air reconnaissance over the area, while a patrol gunboat from the Coast Guard is on standby to assist the US ship.
'Baffling and lamentable'
http://www.rappler.com/nation/19918-us-navy-ship-damaged-coral-in-tubbataha
A US Navy minesweeper ran aground near Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park management is now investigating coral damage, a park official said on Thursday, January 17. Protected area superintendent and head of the Tubbataha management office Angelique Songco told Rappler that the ship "entered without a permit" in violation of section 19 of Republic Act 10067 or the Tubbataha Reefs National Park (TRNP) Act of 2009. Asked if there will be damage to the coral, she said: "Definitely, yes."
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park official explained that the amount of damage to the coral will be determined by a joint team of the USS Guardian and personnel from the marine park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Songco added that the once the damage is assessed, the owner of the ship – the US Navy – can expect to pay P12,000 per sqm of destroyed reefs. "The most probable cause is mis-navigation," said Major Oliver Banaria, commander of the AFP's 6th Civil Relations Group based in Palawan.
In a statement, the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs said it is closely coordinating with the US Embassy, the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Coast Guard on this. The DFA also said it expects the Philippine government to look into the incident.
Rangers barred by US Navy
The US ship ran aground in Tubbataha Reef early morning Thursday. A statement from the US Pacific Fleet revealed that the USS Guardian, an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship, ran aground at 2.25 am near the world heritage site, which is about 98 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa City.
The Park sent its Rangers Thursday morning to visit the ship but were barred by the Americans, according to Songco. "We have not yet been able to approach the boat as there are armed soldiers on deck," she said. As well as unauthorized entry, the USS Guardian is also liable to be charged with destroying and disturbing resources inside the marine protected area under section 26 of the TRNP Act. Park officials have not heard yet from the US Navy, the source added.
US ship came from Subic
Banaria said the incident was reported to them at 3 am. The ship came from a routine port call in Subic, Zambales last Monday, January 14. "The Avenger-Class ship had just completed a port call in Subic Bay, Olongapo City and was en route to her next port of call when the grounding occurred. The ship is currently stuck on the reef, approximately 80 miles east-southeast of Palawan. The crew is currently working to determine the best method of safely extracting the ship," the US Navy added in its statement. No injuries were reported among the 80-man crew and no fuel leak has been discovered.
A Nomad Islander plane from the Philippine Air Force conducted air reconnaissance over the area, while a patrol gunboat from the Coast Guard is on standby to assist the US ship.
'Baffling and lamentable'
In a statement, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) called the incident "baffling and lamentable" and said that "a quick ocular inspection" shows that at least 10 m of the ship's hull have damaged the reef.
WWF called on the US Navy to coordinate directly with the park management through the embassy.
"The extent of damage to the reef must be determined. Furthermore, the swift, safe, and proper extrication of the vessel, should cause no further damage to the Park. This must be done without delay," the statement added.
Tubbataha – a multi-awarded conservation project and one of the world's best dive sites – is a 97,030-hectare World Heritage Site with two main atolls home to a huge variety of marine life species including large pelagics such as manta rays and sharks as well as pristine coral. 2013 is the 25th anniversary of the area's recognition by UNESCO.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/19918-us-navy-ship-damaged-coral-in-tubbataha
Kidnappers call victim's family
Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jan 17): Kidnappers call victim's family
THE kidnappers who are holding hostage a Zamboangueño businessman already established contact with the victim's family, a top police official said. The call came after almost a week of the abduction of 42-year-old businessman Edgar Fabella. Zamboanga Peninsula Police Director Juanito Vaño said it follows that when kidnappers call the victim’s family, ransom demand follows.
Fabella was seized by five gunmen in front of his residence around 7:30 p.m. last Friday in the village of Maasin, 13 kilometers west of the city. He was forced to board on a motorized banca, which docked at the shore across his residence that sped towards Basilan. The victim owns and manages a general merchandise store and eatery.
Vaño said the family refused to say whether there is already a ransom demand. Meanwhile, Zamboanga City police officer-in-charge Senior Superintendent Edwin de Ocampo said they are verifying information concerning the captive's whereabouts. De Ocampo heads the Task Force Edgar activated to find solution to the abduction of Fabella.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2013/01/17/kidnappers-call-victims-family-263405
THE kidnappers who are holding hostage a Zamboangueño businessman already established contact with the victim's family, a top police official said. The call came after almost a week of the abduction of 42-year-old businessman Edgar Fabella. Zamboanga Peninsula Police Director Juanito Vaño said it follows that when kidnappers call the victim’s family, ransom demand follows.
Fabella was seized by five gunmen in front of his residence around 7:30 p.m. last Friday in the village of Maasin, 13 kilometers west of the city. He was forced to board on a motorized banca, which docked at the shore across his residence that sped towards Basilan. The victim owns and manages a general merchandise store and eatery.
Vaño said the family refused to say whether there is already a ransom demand. Meanwhile, Zamboanga City police officer-in-charge Senior Superintendent Edwin de Ocampo said they are verifying information concerning the captive's whereabouts. De Ocampo heads the Task Force Edgar activated to find solution to the abduction of Fabella.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2013/01/17/kidnappers-call-victims-family-263405
Armed struggle not a solution, new AFP chief tells communist rebels
From the Sun Star (Jan 17): Armed struggle not a solution, new AFP chief tells communist rebels
The man behind the military's counter-insurgency program formally assumed on Thursday as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff with a call to the communist rebels to abandon their decades-old armed struggle. In his speech during the AFP Change of Command ceremonies, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Bautista cited the framework agreement forged by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as "a national triumph for peace" and hoped that the communist rebels will also "pursue the road to peace."
"We hope that the [Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF)] will likewise pursue the road to peace and abandon the armed struggle. As we have long realized, armed struggle is not the solution to our problems," said Bautista.
Bautista led the formulation of the military's counter-insurgency program, the Internal Peace and Security Plan "Bayanihan." He was then the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, in the AFP when crafted the said plan in July 2010.
Colonel Arnulfo Burgos, AFP spokesman, earlier described Bautista's appointment as "very timely" since the IPSP Bayanihan "shifts to high gear" in its third year of implementation. "Being the chief architect of IPSP Bayanihan and now at the helm of the AFP, we are highly optimistic that he would be able to lead and enable the organization to make vital progress and significant development which will help the organization and its partner agencies and stakeholders to achieve the shared goals of a just and lasting peace for our country," said Burgos.
Bautista is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, Dimalupig class of 1981. In 1985, he earned a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of the Philippines, among other pertinent academic credentials obtained from various institutions here and abroad during his career.
Meanwhile, President Benigno Aquino III gave his first challenge to the new AFP chief, which is to ensure a peaceful conduct of the May 2013 polls. "Ang hamon ko po sa inyo: ang AFP, kasama ng ating kapulisan, ang may obligasyon na siguruhing maidaraos nang mapayapa at may integridad ang darating na halalan. Nais nating mangibabaw ang boses ng bayan, at hindi ito mabusalan ng armas, takot, at karahasan," Aquino said in his speech.
On the other hand, Bautista guaranteed fairness in the part of the military. "We are likewise sworn to protect our democratic institutions and processes. Your AFP shall remain non-partisan in the upcoming May elections. You can count on us to assist in ensuring honest, credible, orderly and peaceful elections," Bautista said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2013/01/17/armed-struggle-not-solution-new-afp-chief-tells-communist-rebels-263354
The man behind the military's counter-insurgency program formally assumed on Thursday as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff with a call to the communist rebels to abandon their decades-old armed struggle. In his speech during the AFP Change of Command ceremonies, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Bautista cited the framework agreement forged by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as "a national triumph for peace" and hoped that the communist rebels will also "pursue the road to peace."
"We hope that the [Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF)] will likewise pursue the road to peace and abandon the armed struggle. As we have long realized, armed struggle is not the solution to our problems," said Bautista.
Bautista led the formulation of the military's counter-insurgency program, the Internal Peace and Security Plan "Bayanihan." He was then the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, in the AFP when crafted the said plan in July 2010.
Colonel Arnulfo Burgos, AFP spokesman, earlier described Bautista's appointment as "very timely" since the IPSP Bayanihan "shifts to high gear" in its third year of implementation. "Being the chief architect of IPSP Bayanihan and now at the helm of the AFP, we are highly optimistic that he would be able to lead and enable the organization to make vital progress and significant development which will help the organization and its partner agencies and stakeholders to achieve the shared goals of a just and lasting peace for our country," said Burgos.
Bautista is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, Dimalupig class of 1981. In 1985, he earned a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of the Philippines, among other pertinent academic credentials obtained from various institutions here and abroad during his career.
Meanwhile, President Benigno Aquino III gave his first challenge to the new AFP chief, which is to ensure a peaceful conduct of the May 2013 polls. "Ang hamon ko po sa inyo: ang AFP, kasama ng ating kapulisan, ang may obligasyon na siguruhing maidaraos nang mapayapa at may integridad ang darating na halalan. Nais nating mangibabaw ang boses ng bayan, at hindi ito mabusalan ng armas, takot, at karahasan," Aquino said in his speech.
On the other hand, Bautista guaranteed fairness in the part of the military. "We are likewise sworn to protect our democratic institutions and processes. Your AFP shall remain non-partisan in the upcoming May elections. You can count on us to assist in ensuring honest, credible, orderly and peaceful elections," Bautista said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2013/01/17/armed-struggle-not-solution-new-afp-chief-tells-communist-rebels-263354
3 NPA members surrender
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 17): 3 NPA members surrender
Three alleged members of the New People's Army surrendered to the Philippine Army in Sigma, Capiz, Monday, the military reported yesterday. Capt. Ryan Joseph Cayton of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division in Capiz identified them as Joecel Labanza “alias Ka Jacky/Nhene,” a medical officer of the Igabon Platoon, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay; Precy Ortiz “alias Ka Leah”, under commander Rhea from Montalban, Rizal; and Leo Glorian “alias Ka Rio”, finance and logistic officer of the Tugalbong Platoon, KR-P.
Cayton said too much hardship in the mountains, the unfulfilled promises of the NPA hierarchy, and the concern of the returnees for their families, drove the rebel cadres to give themselves up before soldiers of the 3ID. He said Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta, commanding general of the 3ID based in Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, assured the returnees of government assistance while they are in the process of relocation, and livelihood training programs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/January/17/police.htm
Three alleged members of the New People's Army surrendered to the Philippine Army in Sigma, Capiz, Monday, the military reported yesterday. Capt. Ryan Joseph Cayton of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division in Capiz identified them as Joecel Labanza “alias Ka Jacky/Nhene,” a medical officer of the Igabon Platoon, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay; Precy Ortiz “alias Ka Leah”, under commander Rhea from Montalban, Rizal; and Leo Glorian “alias Ka Rio”, finance and logistic officer of the Tugalbong Platoon, KR-P.
Cayton said too much hardship in the mountains, the unfulfilled promises of the NPA hierarchy, and the concern of the returnees for their families, drove the rebel cadres to give themselves up before soldiers of the 3ID. He said Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta, commanding general of the 3ID based in Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz, assured the returnees of government assistance while they are in the process of relocation, and livelihood training programs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/January/17/police.htm
MILF firm on pushing for lead role in Bangsamoro transition
From GMA News (Jan 17): MILF firm on pushing for lead role in Bangsamoro transition
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will insist on leading the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and vowed to push for a clear agreement with the government stating such. At a forum in Makati City on Thursday, MILF chief negotiator Mohaqher Iqbal said it is only proper that the MILF lead the transition authority since it was the one that negotiated and signed a framework agreement with the government. “We are partners in the negotiation, we signed the framework agreement, we headed the transition commission and then all of the sudden someone has taken in place of the MILF leading the Transition Authority,” Iqbal told local and foreign reporters.
“In negotiation, we cannot allow vagueness. We have to be clear, otherwise you are just suspending the controversy to some other time. We have to be very clear right now,” he added. The latest round of negotations in Malaysia in December ended in impasse and without a signed joint statement when the government panel insisted on naming the Transition Authority as “Bangsamoro-led Transition Authority” instead of “MILF-led Transition Authority.” The Bangsamoro framework agreeement, signed in October 2012, states that all devolved authorities shall be vested in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority during the interim period.
It also states that “the ministerial form and Cabinet system of government shall commence once the Bangsamoro Transition Authority is in place." The Bangsamoro Transition Authority may also "reorganize the bureaucracy into institutions of governance appropriate thereto." In her New Year's message in December 2012, government panel head Miriam Coronel Ferrer said “both parties are open to consider options on the remaining eight or so issues, across the annexes, including the 'technical impasse' pertaining to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.” “We firmly believe that there is no deal-breaker in this process, in which much trust and effort have been invested, and for which much more support will be given,” she added.
Iqbal, for his part, said they trust President Benigno Aquino III but “the real assurance is in the document.” He said the government and MILF are expected to meet this month for another round of talks. He expects the annex on modalities and transitional arrangements to be finished first followed by the annex on power sharing.
Ferrer earlier said that the annexes would be finished in two months. She said there has been important breakthrough in coming to terms with the principles that will guide the “intergovernmental relations” between the Central and Bangsamoro governments and constituent parts such as the principle to settle conflicts in laws, programs or policies in a non-adversarial manner. She said this way harmony is maintained between and among the parts not only under the Aquino administration but also under all future national administrations.
Also, the three lists defining the allocation of powers – reserved to the Central government, devolved or exclusive to the Bangsamoro, and concurrent – are almost complete and only about four power-sharing issues remain to be discussed. “These remaining issues are substantial and rather technical. The parties have agreed to solicit advice from technical experts to help them find workable solutions,” she said.
She said there is a working consensus on a new and better sharing formula in relation to government revenues derived from the exploration and utilization of natural resources. “This wealth-sharing formula, a set of devolved taxes, and the system of block grants reflect the mutual desire of the two parties to achieve sustainable self-governance and fiscal autonomy for the Bangsamoro,” Ferrer had said.
She said that soon, the government and MILF panels will be presenting to the public a jointly produced road map that shall serve as the official guide to the implementation of the framework agreement signed in October last year.. “There are many more consensus points in the current draft annexes. These will be openly discussed in due time,” she said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/290779/news/nation/milf-firm-on-pushing-for-lead-role-in-bangsamoro-transition
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will insist on leading the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and vowed to push for a clear agreement with the government stating such. At a forum in Makati City on Thursday, MILF chief negotiator Mohaqher Iqbal said it is only proper that the MILF lead the transition authority since it was the one that negotiated and signed a framework agreement with the government. “We are partners in the negotiation, we signed the framework agreement, we headed the transition commission and then all of the sudden someone has taken in place of the MILF leading the Transition Authority,” Iqbal told local and foreign reporters.
“In negotiation, we cannot allow vagueness. We have to be clear, otherwise you are just suspending the controversy to some other time. We have to be very clear right now,” he added. The latest round of negotations in Malaysia in December ended in impasse and without a signed joint statement when the government panel insisted on naming the Transition Authority as “Bangsamoro-led Transition Authority” instead of “MILF-led Transition Authority.” The Bangsamoro framework agreeement, signed in October 2012, states that all devolved authorities shall be vested in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority during the interim period.
It also states that “the ministerial form and Cabinet system of government shall commence once the Bangsamoro Transition Authority is in place." The Bangsamoro Transition Authority may also "reorganize the bureaucracy into institutions of governance appropriate thereto." In her New Year's message in December 2012, government panel head Miriam Coronel Ferrer said “both parties are open to consider options on the remaining eight or so issues, across the annexes, including the 'technical impasse' pertaining to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.” “We firmly believe that there is no deal-breaker in this process, in which much trust and effort have been invested, and for which much more support will be given,” she added.
Iqbal, for his part, said they trust President Benigno Aquino III but “the real assurance is in the document.” He said the government and MILF are expected to meet this month for another round of talks. He expects the annex on modalities and transitional arrangements to be finished first followed by the annex on power sharing.
Ferrer earlier said that the annexes would be finished in two months. She said there has been important breakthrough in coming to terms with the principles that will guide the “intergovernmental relations” between the Central and Bangsamoro governments and constituent parts such as the principle to settle conflicts in laws, programs or policies in a non-adversarial manner. She said this way harmony is maintained between and among the parts not only under the Aquino administration but also under all future national administrations.
Also, the three lists defining the allocation of powers – reserved to the Central government, devolved or exclusive to the Bangsamoro, and concurrent – are almost complete and only about four power-sharing issues remain to be discussed. “These remaining issues are substantial and rather technical. The parties have agreed to solicit advice from technical experts to help them find workable solutions,” she said.
She said there is a working consensus on a new and better sharing formula in relation to government revenues derived from the exploration and utilization of natural resources. “This wealth-sharing formula, a set of devolved taxes, and the system of block grants reflect the mutual desire of the two parties to achieve sustainable self-governance and fiscal autonomy for the Bangsamoro,” Ferrer had said.
She said that soon, the government and MILF panels will be presenting to the public a jointly produced road map that shall serve as the official guide to the implementation of the framework agreement signed in October last year.. “There are many more consensus points in the current draft annexes. These will be openly discussed in due time,” she said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/290779/news/nation/milf-firm-on-pushing-for-lead-role-in-bangsamoro-transition
MILF rogue commander attacks in N. Cotabato
From the Philippine Star (Jan 17): MILF rogue commander attacks in N. Cotabato
Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in North Cotabato were wounded when a rival group led by a rogue commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked them noontime Wednesday, triggering a 30-minute firefight. The hostilities at Barangay Kayaga in Kabacan, North Cotabato erupted when an MILF commander named Maguinda Simbangan and his followers surrounded a village where MNLF members reside and opened fire with rifles and grenades.
The police director of North Cotabato, Senior Supt. Danilo Peralta, said Simbangan and his men targeted an MNLF leader in the area, Eddie Buisan, also known as Commander Iranun Mansa.
Peralta said the two groups are squabbling over control of strategic patches of land at the border of Barangays Kayaga and Bulit in nearby Montawal town in Maguindanao. The conflict sent dozens of villagers running for their lives. Peralta said Simbangan belongs to the MILF’s 108th Base Command.
Two MNLF members who were wounded in the encounter, Nari Kamsa and Meno Maganaka, were rushed by responding barangay officials and policemen to the Kabacan Polymedic Cooperative Hospital. The military and police in Kabacan and Montawal were forced to close to traffic for almost two hours on a stretch of the Cotabato-Davao Highway traversing the areas where the two groups fought to prevent commuters and motorists from getting trapped in the crossfire.
Peralta said the hostilities waned only when members of the government-MILF ceasefire committee arrived to pacify the feuding factions. The Army’s 602nd Brigade, which has jurisdiction over Kabacan and Montawal towns, has asked the ceasefire committee to investigate on the incident and initiate efforts to reconcile the two groups.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/17/898046/milf-rogue-commander-attacks-ncotabato
Two members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in North Cotabato were wounded when a rival group led by a rogue commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked them noontime Wednesday, triggering a 30-minute firefight. The hostilities at Barangay Kayaga in Kabacan, North Cotabato erupted when an MILF commander named Maguinda Simbangan and his followers surrounded a village where MNLF members reside and opened fire with rifles and grenades.
The police director of North Cotabato, Senior Supt. Danilo Peralta, said Simbangan and his men targeted an MNLF leader in the area, Eddie Buisan, also known as Commander Iranun Mansa.
Peralta said the two groups are squabbling over control of strategic patches of land at the border of Barangays Kayaga and Bulit in nearby Montawal town in Maguindanao. The conflict sent dozens of villagers running for their lives. Peralta said Simbangan belongs to the MILF’s 108th Base Command.
Two MNLF members who were wounded in the encounter, Nari Kamsa and Meno Maganaka, were rushed by responding barangay officials and policemen to the Kabacan Polymedic Cooperative Hospital. The military and police in Kabacan and Montawal were forced to close to traffic for almost two hours on a stretch of the Cotabato-Davao Highway traversing the areas where the two groups fought to prevent commuters and motorists from getting trapped in the crossfire.
Peralta said the hostilities waned only when members of the government-MILF ceasefire committee arrived to pacify the feuding factions. The Army’s 602nd Brigade, which has jurisdiction over Kabacan and Montawal towns, has asked the ceasefire committee to investigate on the incident and initiate efforts to reconcile the two groups.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/01/17/898046/milf-rogue-commander-attacks-ncotabato
Globe cellsite in Zamboanga bombed; 1 hurt
From the Philippine Star (Jan 17): Globe cellsite in Zamboanga bombed; 1 hurt
A Globe Telecom cellsite was bombed in Zamboanga del Norte on Tuesday morning, injuring a security guard. Authorities said an improvised explosive device was used in the bombing of the cellsite, located at Barangay Poblacion in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. The attack, meanwhile, had no effect on Globe's service in the area.
“Our guard on duty suffered very minor injuries and was immediately given treatment at a nearby Siocon medical clinic. Despite the unfortunate incident, our subscribers did not experience any service disruption as all mobile services are up and running in the Zamboanga area,” said Globe spokesperson Yoly Crisanto. Crisanto said Globe is waiting for the results of the official investigation from the Zamboanga police to determine possible motives behind the attack.
Globe reported it is currently undergoing a US$700 million network modernization program meant to completely transform its network. About 84 percent of the modernization has been completed, with the whole program set for completion within the 1st quarter of 2013. The company added 100 percent of Globe Telecom cellsites have already been upgraded in Davao, Cebu, CAMANAVA, South Luzon and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
A Globe Telecom cellsite was bombed in Zamboanga del Norte on Tuesday morning, injuring a security guard. Authorities said an improvised explosive device was used in the bombing of the cellsite, located at Barangay Poblacion in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. The attack, meanwhile, had no effect on Globe's service in the area.
“Our guard on duty suffered very minor injuries and was immediately given treatment at a nearby Siocon medical clinic. Despite the unfortunate incident, our subscribers did not experience any service disruption as all mobile services are up and running in the Zamboanga area,” said Globe spokesperson Yoly Crisanto. Crisanto said Globe is waiting for the results of the official investigation from the Zamboanga police to determine possible motives behind the attack.
Globe reported it is currently undergoing a US$700 million network modernization program meant to completely transform its network. About 84 percent of the modernization has been completed, with the whole program set for completion within the 1st quarter of 2013. The company added 100 percent of Globe Telecom cellsites have already been upgraded in Davao, Cebu, CAMANAVA, South Luzon and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Transition Commission to explore possibility of amending Constitution: MILF
From the Philippine Star (Jan 17): Transition Commission to explore possibility of amending Constitution: MILF
The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have agreed to empower the Transition Commission to discuss whether there is a necessity to amend the Constitution, a senior MILF official said today. "One of the powers of the Transition Commission is to propose amendments to the Constitution if it is necessary. Meaning, we will reach a point whether it is necessary or not," Mohagher Iqbal, chief negotiator of the former Muslim rebel group MILF, said during a forum with the foreign press.
Mr. Iqbal said MILF considered that constitutional change is needed in order to implement the peace agreement with the government, "But the position of the government is that it is not necessary," he added. Under the peace framework agreement, which the Philippine government and the MILF inked in October last year, the 15-man Transition Commission will draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law for the future Bangsamoro state in Mindanao.
According to their agreement, eight members of the Transition Commission will be nominated by the MILF, while the rest will be designated by the government.
http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2013/01/17/898364/transition-commission-explore-possibility-amending-constitution-milf
The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have agreed to empower the Transition Commission to discuss whether there is a necessity to amend the Constitution, a senior MILF official said today. "One of the powers of the Transition Commission is to propose amendments to the Constitution if it is necessary. Meaning, we will reach a point whether it is necessary or not," Mohagher Iqbal, chief negotiator of the former Muslim rebel group MILF, said during a forum with the foreign press.
Mr. Iqbal said MILF considered that constitutional change is needed in order to implement the peace agreement with the government, "But the position of the government is that it is not necessary," he added. Under the peace framework agreement, which the Philippine government and the MILF inked in October last year, the 15-man Transition Commission will draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law for the future Bangsamoro state in Mindanao.
According to their agreement, eight members of the Transition Commission will be nominated by the MILF, while the rest will be designated by the government.
http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2013/01/17/898364/transition-commission-explore-possibility-amending-constitution-milf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)