Philippines' problem: China thinks there's no problem

From Rappler (Aug 12): Philippines' problem: China thinks there's no problem

'You can't solve a problem if you don't recognize that there is one,' the Philippines says after China rejected its South China Sea plan

“What tension? What problem?”

Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario criticized China on Monday, August 11, for supposedly keeping this mindset about the South China Sea.

For Del Rosario, China's refusal to "recognize" the problems in the contested sea makes it difficult for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to resolve the South China Sea disputes.

Del Rosario made the statement after China rejected the Philippines' proposal to freeze provocative activities in the disputed waters. (READ: PH hits China over sea plan: 'We're humoring ourselves')

The moratorium falls under the Triple Action Plan (TAP), which the Philippines recently proposed to the ASEAN.

The TAP aims to curb “specific” activities that raise tensions in the South China Sea. It also seeks to serve as a “more concrete definition” of Paragraph 5 the ASEAN-China Declaration of the Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the South China Sea, a 2002 statement to maintain peace in the disputed waters.

Paragraph 5 of the DOC, a non-binding document, says claimant states should “undertake to exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability.”

“I think if ASEAN can make the point to China strongly that we should have a serious, effective implementation of the DOC, especially Article 5, as a starter, then I think we're in business,” Del Rosario said.

“But that would assume that China recognizes there's a problem,” he added. “As I said, they established that, 'What tension? What problem?' You can't solve a problem if you don't recognize that there is one.”

Philippines rejects 'prejudice'

Del Rosario pointed out that the ASEAN was “very supportive” of the TAP and, in a rare move, posed no objections to the initiative. “Everyone agreed that there was a problem.”

The ASEAN ministers, however, did not explicitly support the TAP in their joint communiqué after their meeting. Despite this, the Philippines said the ministers adopted “parts” of the TAP as “doable.”

Del Rosario said China, for its part, opposed the TAP “immediately, as soon as I came out with it.”

“If something comes to you then you oppose it, it means you're prejudiced. We don't want them to take a prejudiced view of this. We want them to take an objective, constructive viewpoint,” the Philippines' top diplomat said.

Criticizing China, Del Rosario also said rejecting the TAP is like disregarding the DOC.

Del Rosario explained: “The TAP, if you take a look at it, is DOC-centered. And the message that I wanted to deliver is, TAP is good because it's DOC. If you don't accept TAP, then you don't believe in DOC. So let's stop talking about DOC, right? We're just humoring ourselves, 'di ba (right)?”

China: Philippines 'contradicts' proposal

China, for its part, rejected the TAP by saying the Philippines' behavior “contradicts” its own proposal, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

Wang questioned the Philippines' historic case against China even as legal moves fall under the TAP's “final approach.”

Wang said: “If the Philippines wish to pursue its 3-step plan, it should withdraw its push for international arbitration and return to the first step....They've already skipped straight to the third step. Their behavior already contradicts their own proposals.”

Wang was apparently referring to the moratorium on provocative actions as the first step, and arbitration as the third step.

Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose clarified that the TAP shouldn't be understood in terms of “steps,” but as approaches that can be pursued simultaneously. (READ: Philippines denies violating own South China Sea plan)

Despite China's refusal to heed it, the Philippines said the TAP can help even China itself.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/66006-philippines-china-problem-south-china-sea

China hits out at US proposal on South China Sea

From Rappler (Aug 12): China hits out at US proposal on South China Sea

China Foreign Minister: 'Countries outside the region can express reasonable concerns, but we are opposed to 'bossy gestures'... China and ASEAN are totally able to safeguard well the peace and stability of South China Sea'


China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrives at the ASEAN-China Ministerial Meeting in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, 09 August 2014. Nyein Chan Naing/EPA

China accused the US of deliberately stoking tensions in the South China Sea as it rejected Washington's proposal for a freeze on provocative actions in the region, the foreign ministry said Monday, August 11.

The remarks by Foreign Minister Wang Yi came on Sunday, August 10, at an ASEAN Regional Forum overshadowed by disputes over the strategically significant sea.

Beijing claims it almost in its entirety, putting it at odds with countries including the Philippines and Vietnam, and there have been several tense encounters in the area over recent months.

US Secretary of State John Kerry appeared at the Forum to push for a multilateral agreement to end all actions that risk further inflaming regional sensitivities.

But Wang said: "Some countries outside the region are restless, and stir up tensions... might their intention be to create chaos in the region?"

"Countries outside the region can express reasonable concerns, but we are opposed to 'bossy gestures'", Wang said, adding: "China and ASEAN are totally able to safeguard well the peace and stability of South China Sea."

His comments, posted on the foreign ministry's website Monday, were aimed squarely at the US, state-run media said.

China's official Xinhua news agency said that they amounted to a rejection of the US suggestion, in an article headlined: "China rebuffs US 'freeze' proposal on South China Sea."

Wang repeated China's long-standing rejection of multilateral talks over the sea, saying that "relevant disputes should be addressed by countries directly concerned", Xinhua said.

The state-run China Daily quoted Chinese official Wu Shicun as saying that Wang's proposal "leaves no excuse for other countries to interfere in the South China Sea issue".

The US has stepped up its rhetoric on the South China Sea following a series of maritime incidents between China and rival claimants, including Beijing's positioning of an oil rig in waters also claimed by Vietnam which sparked deadly riots in the Southeast Asian nation.

Kerry on Saturday, August 9, formally put forward Washington's proposal to cool maritime tensions based on claimant states agreeing to step back from actions that could "complicate or escalate disputes".

China's claims in the sea, which lies on key shipping routes and is said to be rich in mineral and oil deposits, also conflict with the Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan.
 

http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/65873-china-hits-us-proposal-south-china-sea

Photo of abducted German yachters in Philippines surfaces on Facebook

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Aug 11): Photo of abducted German yachters in Philippines surfaces on Facebook



       Herike Diesen and Stefan Viktor Okonek

A photograph of two German yachters who disappeared at sea off Palawan Island in the Philippines has surfaced on the Internet and in the picture were masked gunmen believed to be members of the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group guarding them.

The picture - shared on Facebook - shows the yachters Stefan Viktor Okonek, 71, and Herike Diesen, 55, behind a German flag and surrounded by at least 10 gunmen in a forest and a black flag with an Arabic inscription can be seen in the background. It was not immediately known who posted the picture on Facebook, but Philippine television TV5 also ran a story about the photograph.

The duo was believed snatched at sea in April 25 while heading to Sabah after from a holiday in Palawan and they were reported missing after Filipino fishermen spotted their empty yacht.

There was no immediate statement from Filipino security officials or the German embassy about the authenticity of the picture. The Abu Sayyaf is still holding several foreigners and Filipinos kidnapped in southern Philippines.

Because of the abductions of the Germans, the United Kingdom warned its citizens in May against travelling to southern Philippines due to threats of terrorism and clashes between security forces and insurgents, and kidnappings.

Britain said there are several terrorist groups operating in the Philippines that continue to pose a threat. It said there is a threat from kidnapping, particularly in the southern Philippines where kidnapping could occur anywhere, including on coastal and island resorts and on dive boats and sites in the Sulu Sea.

“Foreigners have been targeted in rural, urban and coastal areas in the past. In April 2014, two foreign nationals were kidnapped while yachting in the Sulu Sea. In February 2012, 2 foreign nationals were kidnapped from Parangan in the township of Panglima Sugala in the Tawi-Tawi island province.”

“The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking,” it said.

Britain was referring to the two German yachters and the two European wildlife photographers Ewold Horn, 52, from Holland; and Lorenzo Vinciguerre, 47, from Switzerland, who were taken captive by in the coastal village of Parangan in Panglima Sugala town in Tawi-Tawi province two years ago.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/08/photo-of-abducted-german-yachters-in.html

Mining firm pinasabugan

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Aug 12): Mining firm pinasabugan

Pinasabugan ng di-kilalang salarin ang tanggapan ng Kiamba Mining Company sa bayan ng Kiamba sa Sarangani province, ngunit wala naman inulat na sugatan o nasawi sa nasabing atake.

Ayon sa pulisya, naganap ang pagsabog gabi ng Lunes, subali't hindi pa mabatid ng mga awtoridad kung sino ang nasa likod nito o ang motibo.

Hindi rin masabi ng militar kung may kinalaman ang New People's Army sa naturang pagsabog, ngunit inaayawan umano ng mga residente ang operasyon ng kumpanya.

Kasalukuyang iniimbestigahan ng pulisya ang naturang insidente. Walang ibinigay na pahayag ang kumpanya sa naganap na atake.

Nangangamba naman ang ilang sektor sa naganap at baka umano'y maulit pa ito kung kaya't naghigpit ang pulisya ng siguridad nito sa nasabing bayan at naglabay ng checkpoint sa ibat-ibang lugar doon.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/08/mining-firm-pinasabugan.html

Negrenses urged to be part of ‘Bayanihan’ to further promote peace, development

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 11): Negrenses urged to be part of ‘Bayanihan’ to further promote peace, development

The head of the Philippine Army in Western Visayas has urged Negrenses to get involved in “Bayanihan” to further promote peace and development in Negros Occidental.

Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said the success of the government’s peace and security effort is dependent on the participation and support of the public.

Baladad, who was among the special guests during the 28th founding anniversary of the 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Murcia, Negros Occidental over the weekend, encouraged the 303rd IB to be more relevant to the needs of peace and development in the province.

The Army official said insurgency is multifaceted and the presence of non-government organizations and religious groups is needed to address the economic and socials issues.

He said the presence of political leaders will provide the directions and leadership for winning peace and contribute in solving the political problems in Negros Occidental.

During the 303rd IB’s anniversary rites, the Army’s stakeholders or Bayanihan” partners were recognized for their participation in the quest for peace in the province.

The Bayanihan partners, including different mayors in Negros Occidental, religious groups, provincial government employees, non-government organization, and the Negros Press Club, received plaques of recognition and “brown eagle” tokens given by Baladad along with Col. Jon Aying, commander of 303rd Brigade, and Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr.

Aying said the Philippine Army is working together with the stakeholders to address the insurgency problem in Negros Occidental and to achieve a level of normalization or highly stable Negros Island by 2016.

For his part, Marañon said the Negros First Program will work towards poverty alleviation and upliftment of the less privileged Negrenses.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=671612

Army foils NPA attempt to infiltrate Davao Oriental anew

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 11): Army foils NPA attempt to infiltrate Davao Oriental anew

Military troops in Davao Oriental thwarted attempts by the New People’s Army (NPA) to re-influence Davao Oriental, which has been declared by the government as development-ready in April 2013.

The troops from the Army’s 28th infantry Battalion met the armed group with two clashes, one in the morning of August 5 and another at noon of August 7, at Sitio Cabuntongan, Barangay Tagbinunga, Mati City, Davao Oriental. The operation in Tagbinunga led to the capture of an NPA member and the surrender of another.

Lt. Ernest Carolina, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said in a press statement that the government troops conducted patrols in the area in response to the complaints of the barangay folks regarding the recent recurrence of the extortion and harassment, forcing village folks to provide them food.

Carolina disclosed that three days before the first clash, the same group burned two units of bulldozers and two units of backhoe owned by Monarch Heavy Equipment at Sitio Sawidan of same barangay to force the owner to give in to their extortion demands.

While the engaged troops were searching the encounter site after the brief second firefight, a certain Felipe Nacion alias Jack, appeared and surrendered to them with his AK 47 rifle admitting that he is a member of Team Baking, Squad 2, GF 18, SMRC. Nacion was left behind by his comrades during their withdrawal.

Further clearing of the area resulted to the recovery of 3 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), 20 backpacks containing personal effects, medical and dental paraphernalia, and assorted ordnance items left behind by the withdrawing bandits.

Subsequently at around 7:00 p.m. of the same day, information was received of another NPA member with a gunshot wound surfaced at Sitio Calatagan, Barangay Calapagan, Lupon, and requested the residents to inform the military that he wanted to surrender. A team from 28IB was sent to the area to fetch the person, who was later identified to be a ranking leader (name withheld) of the NPA’s “PBC 3” group.

He was then evacuated to Hqs 701st Brigade and given initial treatment by its medical team. He was later brought to Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital for medical evaluation and further treatment.

Meanwhile, pursuing government troops with K9 Team tracked 3 IEDs, and 17 backpacks containing assorted NPA belongings.

In coordination with the provincial government under Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon and the Mati City government under Mayor Carlo Luis Rabat and the Provincial Police Office led by PSSUPT Jose Carumba, pulong-pulong/dialogues were held at Barangays Tagbinonga and Taguibo by Army troops led by LTC Benjamin Daniel Tianco, Commander of 28IB, to inform the people of the situation and assured them of the relentless effort of the government to ensure their safety.

Likewise, foodstuffs and relief goods were distributed to offset the disturbance of their productive livelihood activities.

The military operation has resulted to the recovery of one AK 47 Rifle with three magazines and ammunition, seven improvised explosive devices, three Rifle Grenades, assorted magazines and ammunition, 50 meters detonating wire, an electronic tester, 37 backpacks containing personal effects, assorted medical and dental paraphernalia and medicines, army and PNP uniforms, and subversive documents.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=671664

(Update/changing dateline) Army’s Peace and Development Team attacked, one dead

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 11): (Update/changing dateline) Army’s Peace and Development Team attacked, one dead

A Peace and Development Team (PDT) of Bravo Company, 60IB conducting Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) in the village of Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte, was attacked Monday by an undetermined number of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, leaving one soldier dead.

The Eastern Mindanao Command reported that at around 5:40 a.m. on Monday (August 11), the NPA fired at the temporary patrol base of a detachment of “B” Company, 60IB situated at the vicinity of Sitio Kapatagan, Bgy. Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

Capt. Jose Gamos said that based on the accounts, the NPA positioned themselves at a nearby school and church during the attack making it difficult for the government troops to retaliate. The attack left one soldier killed, whose name is withheld as of this posting.

According to Gamos, the government troops’ presence at Sito Kapatagan was requested by the tribal leaders of the area, as recently reiterated by IP leader Datu Arturo Davao and Kapalong Municipal Administrator Gaspar Balingao. The tribal leaders wished the area to be secured from armed insurgents who continuously posted a threat and intimidated the tribal folks.

He said the soldiers are currently in the phase of gathering vital data on the needs of the people in order to fast track the delivery of effective government projects.

Gamos surmised that the CPP- NPA probably sees the potential development in the area as a hindrance to the advancement of their political agenda and thus made efforts to disrupt the Peace and Development Outreach Program.

The casualty was immediately evacuated to Eastern Mindanao Headquarters, Panacan, this city. The area was immediately secured while government forces conduct hot pursuit operations. No civilian casualties were reported.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=671654

Police, military debunk charges of torture vs. 2 UP grads

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12): Police, military debunk charges of torture vs. 2 UP grads

Ranking police and military officials have maintained that the arrest of the two University of the Philippines (UP) graduates in Barangay TL Padilla, Carranglan town Saturday was lawful and conducted in order.

In a press briefing at the provincial police headquarters here Monday, Nueva Ecija police director Sr. Supt. Crizaldo Nieves and Philippine Army 703rd Brigade commander Col. Felimon Santos said the arrest of Gerald Salonga,23, and Guiller Cadano,23, were result of the lawful service of the arrest warrant against a certain Ely Taray alias Omeng who supposedly hides on the house where the the two were found allegedly with firearms and explosives.

The operation to arrest Taray was undertaken by composite team from the Philippine Army, Provincial Public Safety Company (PPSC) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Team--Nueva Ecija (CIDT-NE).

Taray, however, managed to elude arrest.

Nieves also dismissed reports that Dacano was tortured and forced to admit that he was a member of the communist-led New People's Army (NPA).

"They have undergone medical check-up immediately after their arrest," Nieves said, saying Salonga and Dacano were brought to Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital, a hospital run by the provincial government of Nueva Ecija, in Barangay Bitas here.

"You may see their medical check up record. We observe the process precisely to see to it that the rights of the suspects are never violated," the police officer said.

Santos clarified that the Philippine Army merely assisted police operatives in serving the warrant.

Capt. Mark Ruelos, information officer of the Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division, described the operation as "legitimate" conducted jointly by the PNP and the 7ID "to ensure that the warrant of arrest of Ely Taray alias Omeng will be served."

"The 7ID strictly adheres to the rules of law, human rights and international humanitarian law," Ruelos said.

In detention, Salonga and Dacano maintained they were in the place as volunteers to organize farmers and protect them from the perils of being misplaced in a road project.

Salonga said they have referred their cases to lawyers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=671798

Joint AFP, NBI teams arrest fugitive Major Gen. Palparan

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12): Joint AFP, NBI teams arrest fugitive Major Gen. Palparan

Operatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested fugitive Major Gen. Jovito Palparan, who is wanted for the disappearance of two UP coeds and a string of human rights violation cases, during operations in Manila Tuesday morning.

The arrest took place around 3: 30 a.m. in a house located at Teresa and Old Sta. Mesa sts. in Manila, AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.

Palparan went into hiding after a Bulacan Regional Trial Court judge issued a warrant arrest for him, Lt. Col. Felipe Anotado Jr., Staff Sgt. Edgardo Osorio and Master Sgt. Rizal Hilario in 2011 for the disappearance of UP students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan on June 26, 2006.

Anotado and Osorio voluntarily surrendered. Hilario remain at- large.

He added that AFP units were aided by the NBI's Anti-Organized Crime Division.

Palparan was immediately brought to the NBI headquarters in Taft Avenue, Manila for questioning.

The AFP participation in the arrest of the fugitive major general was borne out by the instructions of President Benigno S. Aquino III to Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin last December 12, ordering the military intelligence units to track and pursue leads that will led to the successful arrest of Palparan and other high profile fugitives.

"All of our intelligence units (Intelligence Services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other intelligence gathering units of the military) were told to help in tracking down and arresting high profile fugitives so that they will brought to the bars of justice," Zagala said.

These intelligence units form part of Task Force "Runway", which is spearheaded by the NBI, he added.

Zagala said that they managed to track down Palparan in Sta. Mesa, Manila through their intelligence build-up.

He added that the Palparan did not resist arrest although he appeared hesitant at first to go with NBI operatives.

No firearms or weapons were confiscated from the retired major general.

Zagala said that they are now looking into the possibilities that some people have sheltered Palparan during his long flight from the law.

"I think those are one of the areas (of) concern, we believe that there are some people who are helping him, as evidence by our tracking. There are some in Zambales, Cagayan De Oro and Leyte who have harbored him," the AFP public affairs office chief stressed.

He added that the successful arrest of Palparan shows that the AFP is not hiding him as claimed by some militant groups.

"The mere fact that we created a task force of all intelligence units led by Major Gen. Eduardo Ano, and that it only shows the professionalism of the AFP that there is no truth to that, we are professional unit, we are professional organization as attested by our intelligence units who did not cover for him despite the fact that he (Palparan) was a former intelligence operative," Zagala pointed out.

He also assures friends and relatives of Palparan that the latter's rights will be protected aside from giving him security to ensure that no harm will fall to him during his trial and detention.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=671809

2 arrested UP grads forced to admit Red ties, says group

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 12): 2 arrested UP grads forced to admit Red ties, says group

Suspects not harmed, says AFP

Two University of the Philippines (UP) graduates who were arrested by government troops on Saturday were forced to admit that they were communist rebels during an intense interrogation, a human rights watchdog said.

Sr. Cecil Ruiz, Karapatan chair in Central Luzon, told the Inquirer on Monday that Gerald Salonga and Guiller Cadano were blindfolded when a team of soldiers and policemen took them from a house in Barangay R.T. Padilla in Carranglan town, Nueva Ecija province.

“Much of their ordeal was psychological torture [rather] than physical torture. They were charged with illegal possession of firearms and explosives when they were just watching television in a house,” said Ruiz, who met Salonga and Cadano at the Provincial Public Safety Company (PPSC) office in Cabanatuan City on Sunday.

The two are not New People’s Army (NPA) members but organizers of the party-list groups Kabataan and Anakbayan, she said.

Military and police officials on Monday denied Ruiz’s claims, saying Salonga and Cadano were treated well and examined by a doctor at Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital in Cabanatuan.

Citing a report from Nueva Ecija police, Chief Supt. Raul Petrasanta, Central Luzon police director, said Salonga and Cadano were not harmed and forced to admit that they were rebels.

“In fact, the suspects’ families were present on Sunday before they were presented to the provincial prosecutor for inquest proceedings. They underwent medical examination and the doctor’s findings showed that they were clear. So what Karapatan is saying is speculation,” Petrasanta said.

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Senior Supt. Crizaldo Nieves, Nueva Ecija police director, said hospital records would show that Salonga and Cadano were in good physical condition.

Salonga, 24, and Cadano, 22, obtained degrees in psychology and business management, respectively, from the UP Diliman Extension Program in Pampanga at Clark Freeport.

The Army’s 7th Infantry Division, in a news release on Sunday, said Salonga and Cadano were companions of Ely Taray, also known as “Omeng,” who eluded arrest in Saturday’s operations. Taray is said to have standing warrants for attempted murder in 2006 and murder in 2008.

Interviewed on Sunday, Salonga and Cadano denied knowing Taray. They said they were in Carranglan to organize farmers who would be displaced by a road project that the government would undertake in cooperation with Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica).

“The expressway that would be built under the Dalton Pass Eastern Alignment Project threatens farmers there with displacement. Our investigation showed that the public-private partnership between the government and Jica is a threat to the farmers’ livelihood,” Cadano said.

The two, according to the 7th Infantry Division, are platoon guides of Platoon Nueva Ecija-Nueva Vizcaya-Eastern Pangasinan of the NPA operating in Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya, and in the eastern section of Pangasinan province.

The 7th Infantry Division said government troops recovered two 9-mm pistols, bullets, two hand grenades and antigovernment documents from Salonga and Cadano. The troops are members of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Brigade, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the PPSC in Nueva Ecija.

Asked about the items recovered from them, Salonga said, “We have asked more knowledgeable people to handle this issue.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/628257/2-arrested-up-grads-forced-to-admit-red-ties-says-group

General Palparan, 'The Butcher,' arrested in Manila

From Rappler (Aug 12): General Palparan, 'The Butcher,' arrested in Manila

Retired Major General Jovito Palparan, one of the country's most wanted men, is arrested almost 3 years after he went into hiding

Retired Major General Jovito Palparan, infamously tagged as “berdugo” (butcher) by human rights activists, was arrested in Manila early Tuesday, August 12, almost 3 years after an arrest warrant was issued against him.

In an interview with GMA News, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, confirmed Palparan was arrested at around 3 am Tuesday in Sta Mesa Manila by a composite team of the National Bureau of Investigation Anti-Organized Crime Division and the Armed Forces' Naval Intelligence Group.

De Lima said authorities were able to locate the retired general on Monday, August 11.

The Aquino government raised a P2-million bounty for the capture of the retired general – hailed by military peers for his relentless campaign against communism and assailed by human rights groups for allegedly killing innocent civilians in the process.

He went into hiding in December 2011, when a Bulacan regional trial court issued a warrant of arrest against him in connection with two cases of kidnapping and serious detention for the 2006 disappearance of students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeno.

In an interview with Rappler days before he went underground, Palparan talked about his arrest warrant: "I will consult with my lawyer. There may be legal remedies available for me. What they're doing is illegal."

We asked him then: Are you going to hide? He said: "Ang option na ganyan, minsan maiisip mo yan. Sarili mo yan. Ilalagay mo ba sarili mo sa alanganin? Ang daming threat sa akin." (That's an option. It's personal. Would I expose myself to trouble given the threats against me?)

As a courtesy to the former congressman, the Aquino government immediately requested for Palparan’s surrender. He refused, and announced he would challenge it.

It's been years of fruitless manhunt for the ex-general. In January 2012, authorities searched the Davao City home of Palparan's friend, former Bantay party list nominee Ramon Teodoro Garcia, on suspicion the fugitive was hiding in the area. They didn't find him.

Notorious

Palparan gained notoriety in his key assignments in Mindoro, Samar and central Luzon, where he served as commanding general of the military's 7th infantry division between 2005 and 2006, the height of the Arroyo administration's massive counter-insurgency campaign that targetted the mass base of the communist New People's Army.

Under the government of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, he was promoted twice in a short span of time, and even earned praise from Mrs Arroyo herself in her 2006 State of the Nation Address.

In the 2007 synchronized elections, Palparan's party list Bantay won a seat in Congress, making him a party-list representative.

Palparan and 3 other military personnel are charged with two counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the abduction of Cadapan and Empeño in 2006.

Kadapan, 27, and Empeno, 20, were abducted on June 26, 2006 from a farming community in Hagonoy, Bulacan.

At least two witnesses have testified that the two were tortured upon the orders of the general. (READ: The most wanted man in the country)

'Long overdue' arrest

Meanwhile, activist human rights group Karapatan welcomed what they called "the long overdue arrest" of Palparan.

"Palparan should be made fully accountable and be placed in jail for the disappearances of Empeño and Cadapan, and for all extrajudicial killings, torture, and disappearances he has committed," Karapatan secretary general Tinay Palabay told Rappler.

"No special treatment should be accorded to butchers like him in jail, there should be no more delays in delivering justice," Palabay said, stressing that the relatives of the human rights victims have suffered far too long.

Reports from the United Nations, Human Rights Watch, and the now-defunct Melo Commission noted that a sizable rise in the numbers of murdered activists and alleged communists in each area Palparan was assigned.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/65942-palparan-arrested-manila?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rappler%2Fnation+(Rappler%3A+Nation)

Basilan Mayors welcome new Army commander

From the Zamboanga Today (Aug 11): Basilan Mayors welcome new Army commander

Lamitan City Mayor Rose Furigay yesterday called on the newly assumed commander of the 104th Infantry Brigade, First Tabak Division, Philippine Army Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista to exert extra efforts in providing security to the people of Basilan Province.

This was the clear message of Furigay during last week’s change of command from outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. who is moving out of the province.

The mayor thanked Galvez for the many accomplishments and contributions to peace during his stint as commander of the Army in the province, the reason why her administration made the outgoing general as Lamitan’s Adopted Son because of his sterling performance.

“We are going to miss you Gen. Galvez but we also welcome another servant to peace in the person of Col. Bautista. Hopefully you will keep up with the momentum especially in protecting the people of Basilan as a whole,” Furigay said.

The lady mayor said her administration will always support the military and other peace keeping force in the province.

Meanwhile, Isabela City Mayor Cherry Santos Akbar also similarly expressed support to Bautista in his fight against terrorists and criminals in the province.

Akbar hopes Bautista will even surpass the security measures of his predecessor.

Also present during the turn over of command were Lamitan Vice Mayor Roderick Furigay, councilors, military, police and barangay officials.

http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/top-stories/18198-basilan-mayors-welcome-new-army-commander-.html

Abu Sayyaf demands RM5mil for release of marine cop

From The Star Online (Aug 12): Abu Sayyaf demands RM5mil for release of marine cop

KOTA KINABALU: Abu Sayyaf gunmen are apparently asking for high ransom payments for the release of marine police constable Zakiah Aleip who was kidnapped from Mabul Island in Semporna on July 12.

It is learnt that the gunmen are demanding sums of up to RM5mil for the release of the 26-year-old policeman whose colleague Kpl Ab Rajah Jamuan, 32, was shot dead by Filipino gunmen who raided the police post at a resort in Mabul.

Speaking to reporters after witnessing the handing over duties by acting state CID chief Asst Comm Mohd Shariff Abdul Wahid to new Sabah CID chief Sr Asst Comm Salehhudin Abdul Rahman, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman declined to disclose the amount involved.

He said negotiations to secure the freedom of Kons Zakiah might take a longer time, as the amount was “terlalu tinggi (too expensive)”.

Comm Jalaluddin said there were a total of 42 calls received by the wife and other policemen from either Kons Zakiah or the gunmen.

“The gunmen also gave him (Kons Zakiah) the chance to speak to his wife and family members, most of the time during the afternoon or evening,” he said.

“It is going to take time … the amount is too high,” Comm Jalaluddin said, adding that Kons Zakiah was unhurt though he was being moved about by the captors to evade arrest by the Philippines police.

On the call for assistance from the Government by Chin Pek Nyen, the wife of Chan Sai Chuin, 32, who was grabbed from his Kunak fish farm on June 16, Comm Jalaluddin said he had discussed Chan and Kons Zakiah’s cases with the Inspector-General of Police and other officers in Bukit Aman recently.

It is believed that the Abu Sayyaf group holding Chan is demanding RM3mil and the family is unable to raise the money.

On another matter, Comm Jalaluddin directed CID officers to speed up the clearing of backlog of cases where investigations might have been delayed due to officers retiring or being transferred.

“Some of the investigation papers are delayed up to three months, we have to clear it to meet our KPIs,” he said, adding that all officers must work diligently and update the complainants on the development of their respective cases.

“Reports against policemen should also be completed quickly as it is only then that the management and disciplinary unit can look at such cases,” he said.

http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2014/08/12/Abu-Sayyaf-demands-RM5mil-Gunmen-want-huge-sum-in-exchange-for-release-of-marine-cop/

Armed Forces builds new base in Zamboanga City

From the Manila Times (Aug 11): Armed Forces builds new base in Zamboanga City

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is building a new military outpost in Zamboanga City to serve as protective mantle against armed attacks, similar to what the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) did last year.

But contrary to the AFP’s claim, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said that it is more likely that the camp, which it said is worth P3.2 billion, is set to host and provide security for United States (US) soldiers and military hardware .

“There is ample reason to believe that the planned AFP camp, which will also provide space for the police and the Coast Guard, is nothing but a new US military base, to be constructed in accordance with the recently signed Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) where the US will be allowed to set up facilities in so-called ‘agreed locations’ within AFP cmps,” said the CPP.

AFP Public Affairs Office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala on Monday countered that the CPP does not know what they talking about.

“What the CPP is saying is inaccurate,” Zagala pointed out.

Zagala said what is to be built in the village of Rio Hondo in Zamboanga City is not really a camp but more of an outpost less than a hectare in size for the joint use of the AFP, Philippine National Police and Coast Guard.

He added that the city government of Zamboanga would shoulder the cost of the lot and the construction of the perimeter wall and other structures inside.

“We are occupying the property and the city of Zamboanga will purchase it to protect the city,” Zagala pointed out. “As of now we are waiting for the city to develop it.”

He likewise clarified that the P3.2 billion being referred to by the CPP was actually the total cost for the rehabilitation of conflict-affected villages of Zamboanga City.

Zagala said the planned outpost would serve as deterrent against any armed attacks in the city.

It will be recalled that in September last year, some 300 members of the MNLF-Misuari faction landed and occupied in the coastal village of Rio Honda that later spread to four adjacent coastal barangays.

It took the military and the police three weeks to quell the MNLF siege.

The AFP has an existing military base in Zamboanga City, the Camp General Basilio Navarro, which is also the home of the US Pacific Command’s 700-strong Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines.

http://www.manilatimes.net/armed-forces-builds-new-base-zamboanga-city/118160/

US, Australia eye military agreements

From the Manila Times (Aug 11): US, Australia eye military agreements

Australia and the United States will sign a 25-year deal allowing 2,500 US Marines and air force personnel to train Down Under, Defense Minister David Johnston said on Monday, describing it as a “win-win situation.”

The agreement will be inked Tuesday when US Secretary of State John Kerry and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel meet with their Australian counterparts Julie Bishop and Johnston in Sydney.

Trouble spots abroad including Iraq and Ukraine will also be on the agenda for the Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUS–MIN), which focus on regional security and military cooperation.

But the centerpiece will be the agreement allowing the Marine rotational deployment in the northern city of Darwin, which was first announced by US President Barack Obama in 2011 as part of his “pivot” toward Asia.

“Approximately 2,500 US defense force personnel will come to primarily the Northern Territory to exercise on the vast, open Commonwealth [government] military exercise grounds that we have,” Johnston told a joint press conference with Hagel.

“They will interoperate with Australia. They will do things that they want to, exercise activities that are important to them. We’ll assist them,” he added.

Johnston said as many as 1,200 US Marines and air force personnel were already rotating into Darwin during the current dry season in Australia’s tropical north.

“These are the things that are benefiting Australia and the flipside of that coin is that we have just a lot of space that’s open for practice, exercises . . . so it’s a win-win situation for both of us,” he said.

Hagel said the deal emphasized Washington’s “rebalance” towards the Asia-Pacific, saying the United States was a Pacific power holding about 200 ships and more than 360,000 personnel in the region.

“We are not going anywhere,” Hagel said.

“Our partnerships are here, our treaty obligations are here and are important to us,” he said.

“It’s pretty clear that the US is committed to this part of the world but also this does not mean a retreat from any other part of the world. We have interests all over the world,” Hagel added.

More ways to cooperate

 Hagel said the talks on Tuesday, which analysts had said would likely pave the way for enhanced military cooperation between the allies, would give officials an opportunity to explore “better ways we can cooperate.”

“We will address a number of issues tomorrow. They will focus on maritime security, special forces, missile defense and Afghanistan,” he said.

He said the situation in Ukraine would also be on the agenda, as well as the threat from jihadist fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq, where Australia has offered to assist the US in humanitarian airdrops to those trapped by the violence.

Bates Gill, chief executive of the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney, said the talks would be an important next step in what appeared to be “a growing degree of access and presence for American assets both human and materiel on Australian territory.”

http://www.manilatimes.net/us-australia-eye-military-agreements/118200/