UPDATE: 3 Abu Sayyaf brigands killed, 14 wounded in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): UPDATE: 3 Abu Sayyaf brigands killed, 14 wounded in Sulu clash

Three Abu Sayyaf brigands were killed while 14 others, including four brigands, were wounded in a fierce gun battle Friday in the province of Sulu, a top military official said.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, said the firefight broke out when the marine troops encountered some 300 Abu Sayyaf brigands around 6:29 a.m. Friday in Mount Awak, Barangay Latih, Patikul, Sulu.

Arrojado said the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) troops were conducting focus military operation when the spotted the Abu Sayyaf brigands.

Arrojado said the troops have also noticed that four Jemaah Islamiyah militants were together with the Abu Sayyaf brigands during the clash.

He said the slain Abu Sayyaf brigands were identified as Umaili Jarmaani, Aljimar Barin, Ardam Muhajili based on the report of the ground troops.

He said two of the wounded Abu Sayyaf brigands were identified as a certain Sueb and a certain Anas.

He said the 10 wounded MBLT-2 troops were airlifted to a military hospital in this city after undergoing initial medical treatment at the Trauma Hospital in Camp Gen. Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.

Arrojado said the Fire Base Santol pounded the positions of the enemy forces with 81-mm mortar shells while another platoon reinforced the engaged troops forcing the JIs and brigands to scamper to different directions.

He said the Abu Sayyaf brigands that figured in the firefight against the troops are led by Hatib Hajan Sawajaan, Muamar Askali, Almuktar Suddung, Namiel Ahajari, Basaron Arok and Yasser Igasan.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=798160

Farmers unearth abandoned IED in North Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Farmers unearth abandoned IED in North Cotabato

MATALAM, North Cotabato -- Alert villagers and palm oil plantation workers prevented what could be a bloody Friday when they discovered live improvised bombs under palm oil trees, police said on Friday.

Supt. Bernard Tayong, North Cotabato police spokesperson, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA), the plantation workers putting fertilizers on palm oil trees found the explosives at about 3 p.m.

To avoid premature explosion, the workers reported their discovery to the plantation owner, who in turn alerted the Matalam police.

Tayong said the IED was composed of a 40 mm projectile and live fragmentation grenade left unattended in the vast Zerudo palm oil plantation in Barangay Upper Valdevieso, Matalam, North Cotabato.

Police immediately cordoned off the area and directed plantation workers to stay away because of the danger of premature explosion if the ground moves.

Army bomb experts from the 57th Infantry Battalion safely defused the IEDs.

Tayong said the explosives could have been left unconsciously by armed men or Moro rebels operating in the hinterlands of Matalam.

No one claims ownership of the explosive which are now under the custody of 57th IB for safekeeping and proper disposal.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=798204

P-Noy to lead National Heroes' Day celebrations Monday

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): P-Noy to lead National Heroes' Day celebrations Monday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the commemoration of National Heroes’ Day with a simple wreath-laying ceremony and commemorative program at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB), Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Monday.

The event will take place 8 a.m.

Aquino will be joined in by other top government officials, senior military officers and enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, members of the diplomatic corps, students, and members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP).

A full military honor composed of personnel from the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy (Fleet and Marines) and Philippine Air Force will also be tendered to the President upon his arrival at the LNMB.

National Heroes' Day is a national holiday in the Philippines, celebrated every last Monday of August to pay tribute to our Filipino heroes, particularly soldiers fallen during combat and/or while performing in humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=798039

Yordan appointed AFP-GHQ and HSC commander

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Yordan appointed AFP-GHQ and HSC commander

Brig. Gen. Vicente M. Yordan was appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines-General Headquarters (GHQ) and Headquarters Support Command (HSC) commander during simple ceremonies Friday.

He replaces Brig. Gen. Arthur P. Ang who retired after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

The latter is a member of Philippine Military Academy "Dimalupig" Class of 1981.

Ang served for 34 year in the military.

His replacement, Yordan, is a member of the PMA "Sandigan" Class of 1982.

His accomplishments as a military leader stems from his passion for excellence and perfection in everything he does.

Yordan is said to be a perfectionist to whom small details are important.

Prior to becoming AFP GHQ and HSC head, he held the position of Commander of 51st Engineering Brigade of Philippine Army.

He also held various military positions. Among the offices he held were executive office of OJ5 of AFP GHQ in 2007, Director of Doctrine Center, Training and Doctrine Command in Camp O’Donell Capas, Tarlac from 2009 to 2010, Army Chief of Engineers from 2010 to 2012, and Brigade Commander of 55th Engineering Brigade in Mindanao from 2012 to 2013.

Yordan underwent various schoolings including Scout Ranger Orientation Course, Basic Airborne Course and Counter Intelligence Course.

He also underwent schoolings abroad including National Security Course at Korea National Defense University, International Defense Resource Management in United States Naval Post Graduate School, and Mapping Charting and Geodesy Course at Fort Belvoir, Unites States of America.

Among the awards he received were Distinguished Service Star, Presidential Unit Citation Badge, Civic Military Action Medal, Mindanao Sulu Campaign Medal and Gawad sa Kaunlaran Award.

Yordan was born on August 6, 1960 in Mandaue City, Cebu. He is married to Aileen Sarmiento-Yordan, a researcher, with whom he had a son, Benedict John.

While Ang is a known adept in military diplomacy and international politics.

He was designated as military attaché to Beijing from 2005-2008.

Prior to his designation as commander of GHQ and HSC from March 28, 2014 until Aug. 28, he also served as Assistant Division Commander of 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, based in Camp Mateo Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal from 2012 to 2014.

 

Among the positions he held were Brigade Commander of 901st Brigade of 9th Infantry Division in Albay, Bicol from 2010 to 2012, Chief of Staff of 9th Infantry Division Headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur from 2009 to 2010 and Executive Officer of AFP GHQ’s OJ2 from 2005 to 2009.

Ang is also a graduate of Scout Ranger Orientation Course, Security Intelligence Officer Course, Counter Intelligence Officer Course and Field Artillery Officer Basic Course.

He also received international schooling including Rural Tradecraft Training in United States, Political Warfare Course in Taiwan and Foreign Officer Tactical Intelligence Course in Australia.

Among the decorations and awards he received were Anti-Dissidence Campaign Medal and Ribbon, Military Merit Medals, Distinguished Service Stars, Bronze Cross Medal and Gawad sa Kaunlaran.

He is also a recipient of Royal Thailand Army Airborne Wings.

Ang was born on Aug. 29, 1959 in Bacolod City. He is married to Evangeline Gabriel-Ang with whom he had a son, Arthur Angelo.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=798042

PMAAAI to conduct 4th Heroes Run

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): PMAAAI to conduct 4th Heroes Run

The Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association, Inc. (PMAAAI) on Friday announced that it will hold its fourth Heroes Run this coming Nov. 29.

Around 5,000 runners nationwide are expected to attend in this event.

This year's Heroes Run is the biggest get-together for military men and women as well as the general running public on their quest to aid the fallen and injured soldiers' dependents.

This year, the event will have three simultaneous gun starts: Manila, Ilo-Ilo (Visayas) and the recently added, Davao (Mindanao).

The nationwide run will have four categories: 3K for Php 500; 5K for Php 700; 10K for Php 800; and 21K for Php 900.

The aim of the run is to unite Filipino runners, whether professional or amateur to take part in this nationalistic effort.

Col. Leo Guinid, PMAAAI athletic representative, " "Heroes Run has been one of the most successful events in the country in terms of uniting the public and the military. It breaks down boundaries and shows the good nature of each side. It adds inspiration to the soldiers while it makes the public appreciate more the sacrifices our soldiers make for the sake of the country's peace and order."

Conceptualization of the Heroes Run started when PMAAAI saw the opportunity to unite the public and the military. For years, military men and women had marathons of their own.

It's part of their leisurely activities to promote camaraderie and a way of relaxation.

But in the past years, the public also became more health and fitness inclined holding runs and marathons of their own as well.

This sparked the idea to hold a run initiated by the military and open it to the public.

So far, Heroes Run gathered more and more runners in the past.

Just last year, it had two gun starts; one in Manila and the other in Ilo-Ilo.

It became very successful that PMAAAI decided to take it to the next level this year: to allow the whole nation join from Luzon to Mindanao.

And just like every Heroes Run, the fund-raising event's top mission is to help the families left behind by fallen soldiers or even the injured ones.

The chosen organization for 2015 is the Armed Forces of the Philippines Educational Benefit System Office (AFPEBSO).

"Our AFPEBSO has been consistent in managing the educational scholarship programs for the dependent of our hero soldiers. However, they need all the support we can give to ensure sustainability of these programs. Through this endeavor, we have the best chance to give back to our soldiers by participating in this event and by sponsoring," PMAAAI president Col. John Jurado said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=797991

National flags in all PA camps to be in half-staff Monday

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): National flags in all PA camps to be in half-staff Monday

In honor of Filipino soldiers who have fallen in combat or conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions (HADR), all national flags in Philippine Army (PA) camps and bases will be placed in half-staff Monday.

This will start at 5 a.m. and will end on 12 noon, PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said.

Incidentally, the country will be celebrating National Heroes Day Monday.

"The PA will implement the half-staffing of national flag to pay tribute to our Filipino heroes, particularly soldiers fallen during combat and/or while performing in HADR operations," Hao stressed.

Under Republic Act No. 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, the Philippine Flag can be flown at half-mast or half-staff during the death anniversary of heroes and heroines, calamities or grave adversity of national or international solemnity as ordered by the Office of the President.

National flag can also be lowered to half-mast as a sign of mourning upon official announcement of the death of select government officials or other persons determined by the National Historical Institute.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=798086

12 rebels, arms cache seized in Bukidnon operations

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): 12 rebels, arms cache seized in Bukidnon operations

Troopers from the Eastern Mindanao Command have arrested 12 suspected New People's Army (NPA) fighters and seized their arms cache during operations in Bukidnon last Aug. 26.

Reports forwarded Friday by Capt. Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command public affairs office chief, said the rebel weapons consist of an improvised M-16 automatic rifle, a M-79 grenade launcher, three rifle grenades, two unexploded improvised explosive devices, detonators and blasting caps, assorted ammunition, and subversive documents.

Aside from these items, 12 rebels from the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee were arrested by troopers of the 8th Infantry Battalion and the PNP Public Safety Company at Barangay Kulaman, Kitaotao town, Bukidnon 5: 30 a.m.

The successful capture was made possible after concerned residents reported to the military the presence of these heavily-armed rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=798232

15 farmers, including minor arrested in Bukidnon, forced to board helicopter

From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Aug 27): 15 farmers, including minor arrested in Bukidnon, forced to board helicopter



Fifteen peasants including a mother and his 12-year old son were allegedly rounded-up by soldiers and forced to board a helicopter on Thursday in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, a town-based peasant organization said.

Isidro Indao, spokesperson of the Kahugpongan sa mga Mag-uuma Sa Kitaotao (KMK) said they have received sketchy report from its chapter, Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Barangay White Culaman (NAMABAW) that its chairperson, Ellen Manlimbaas, was among those arrested by Army men.

Arrested with Manlimbaas were Felizardo Labadan, Editha Bontao, Jun Pellazar, Camilo Asunan, Noeda Manlumaray and her 12-year old son and eight others, all residents of Sitio Placatta, Indao said.

“Troops from (the Army’s) 23rd and 8th Infantry Battalions searched through the houses at Poblacion, Barangay White Culaman since 5:00 am yesterday (Wednesday) and arrested Manlimbaas and the others,” said Indao.

Indao said that the arrested were made to stay at the barangay hall since yesterday and at 8:00 am to lunchtime today, “they were taken aboard a helicopter and taken to Cagayan de Oro in two batches”.

“Evidence like subversive documents, bombs and other materials were planted to have a reason to arrest them,” said Indao.

Indao alleged that White Kulaman Barangay Captain Felipe Cabugnason “had knowledge and consent of the incident and in fact tolerated it even if the rights of the individuals were clearly violated.”

“He demanded to immediately halt the operation of Misfi (Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Incorporated) School in Sitio Dao,” he said.

Indao said the school was “requested by the people” and was built thru Misfi last 2014.
Misfi schools and another tribal schools ran by missionaries have complained in May this year that their students and teachers were being harassed by the Army.

The Army has denied the allegations and accused the schools of “teaching IPs (indigineous peoples) to hate the government.”

A post in Misfi Academy’s social media Facebook account a year ago shows administrators, teachers, students and IP leaders in a tribal ritual opening the school classes and its grade seven program.

Meanwhile, Indao said he and other officer and members of the provincial IP and peasant organization Apo Sandawa Lumadnong Panaghiusa sa Cotabato (ASLPC) will conduct an onsite fact-finding mission tomorrow.

http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/15-farmers-including-minor-arrested-in-bukidnon-forced-to-board-helicopter/

MILF: ICAN sponsors Seminar on Peace advocacy-“Communicating for Peace” at BLMI

Posted to the MILF Website (Aug 27): ICAN sponsors Seminar on Peace advocacy-“Communicating for Peace” at BLMI

The International Children’s Action Network (ICAN) in conjunction with Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) held a Seminar on “Communicating for Peace” with the theme:” Bangsamoro’s Quest for Right-to-Self-Determination and Just Peace” at BLMI Training Center, Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on August 24-26. 2015.

Thirty individuals from BTC Communication Group, Committee on Information of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and from other affiliate agencies of the Moro Front participated in the activity. 

In the opening program, Mr. Abdullah Cusain, Head of the BTC Communication Group expressed his gratitude to ICAN for their initiatives in sponsorship the program and hoping that the participants optimize their time in acquiring knowledge that will enable them to educate and inform the people on  the significance of peace-building. 

Ms. Akiko Matsuuda, a dynamic Peace Builder lady from Japan and ICAN Foundation Project Manager presented the organization’s programs. She related the ICAN active involvements particularly in Peace-Building Education, Conflict resolution and other Humanitarian Affairs interventions not only in Mindanao but throughout the country. 

Mr. Edwin Antipuesto and ICAN team leader presented the course overview and its objectives. He cited them as technical knowledge on peace advocacy initiatives, planning, techniques and their corresponding applications. 

Mr. Antipuesto presented the definition of advocacy, concept and principles and stressed its significant dynamics by understanding its context vividly. Thereafter, the participants engaged in workshops by group and presented them. 

Mr. Antipuesto wrapping up the group presentations by synthesizing the ideas, issues and concerns that each group wanted to stress in their outputs. Antipuesto also emphasized the context analysis on the influential stakeholders which are directly or indirectly involved in decision making on issues specifically the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL)  

Identification of problems and analysis are very important in coming up with calibrating mechanisms responsive to the problems, he said. To address the concrete problems must be first solved the root causes of the problem, hence, the problem must be viewed in a broader perspective, Mr. Antipuesto further said. 

On the final day of the program, presentation and discussions were focused on the elements of advocacy and negotiations by elucidating its core components, techniques and the aspects of social marketing through the mass media. 

During the closing program, the participants expressed their profoundest gratitude to officials and Staff of ICAN, Japan-Bangsamoro Initiative Reconstruction Development (J-BIRD) and BLMI for the opportunity and knowledge imparted them.

Sheikh Mahmod S. Ahmad, BLMI Executive Director in his closing message appealed to the participants that they can impart and apply the knowledge they acquired to Bangsamoro cause and share it to their fellowmen. 

Mr. Antipuesto on his part expressed his appreciation to participants for their active participations and their desire to enhance their respective expertise, and looked forward to have more engagements with BTC and BLMI. 

I C.A.N Foundation is an International Non-Government Organization based in Japan and has been operating in Philippines since 1994. Its programs are mostly concentrated on Peace Building Education but also actively involved in relief operations and other humanitarian affairs throughout the country.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/544-ican-sponsors-seminar-on-peace-advocacy-communicating-for-peace-at-blmi

Authorities nab 9 farmers suspected to be NPA rebels

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 27): Authorities nab 9 farmers suspected to be NPA rebels

Nine farmers suspected to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA), were recently arrested in a hinterland village in Kitao-tao town in Bukidnon.

Authorities said they recovered from the suspects an improvised explosive device and several subversive documents.

One of those arrested was identified as Helen Manlibaas, secretary-general of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) in Bukidnon and a resident of Barangay White Kulaman, Kitao-tao.

It was in Manlibaas’ possession that the arresting officers seized subversive materials, according to reports.

Also arrested were Camilo Asunan, Selmo Manlomaray, Lolok Manlipay, Ronaldo Gesta, Markie Manlomaray, Ar-ar Manlomaray, Jun-Jun Pilisar, and Tonton Labadan, all farmers and members of KMP-Bukidnon.

The suspects were placed under the custody of the 8th Infantry Battalion of the Army in Kitao-tao, one of the arresting units.

Relatives and neighbors of the suspects considered the arrest unjust and a clear violation of human rights.

Claro Lawigan, also a KMP member and a resident of Barangay White Kulaman, said the pieces of evidence were planted by the arresting officers.

“The landmines were planted, even the subversive documents. They were arrested because of intrigues,” said Lawigan.

Lawigan said the raid on Wednesday was the second in Kitao-tao since May this year.

In May, four residents of Barangay Calapaton, suspected of being NPA members, were arrested by government troops.

http://www.mb.com.ph/authorities-nab-9-farmers-suspected-to-be-npa-rebels/

Rebel returnees receive livelihood projects from the government

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 27): Rebel returnees receive livelihood projects from the government

Camp Bancasi, Butuan City — Heavily armed New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who voluntarily returned to the fold of the government on Tuesday received P70,000 each for the livelihood program extended to them by the government to start their new way of life, a regional Army spokesman yesterday said.

The rebel returnees will also receive cash assistance from the AFP Guns for Peace Program as remuneration for the high powered firearms they’ve surrendered on Tuesday, said Capt. Joe Patrick A. Martinez.

“The government wants them to be productive in their respective localities, in their new way of life,” the spokesperson of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division said.

From the original list of 35 former NPAs who yielded on Tuesday, 7 rebels were added to the list during the surrender rites at the municipal gym in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur on Tuesday.

Vilma Quillano, a 24-year-old mother who joined the armed movement last 2010 to avenge the death of her mother during an encounter with the military in Surigao del Sur, was among the rebel returnees who took their oath of allegiance.

After having her own family, she then realized the importance of being a mother. She chose to leave the armed struggle because she wanted her family, especially her two-year-old son to have a better and brighter future.

 “Before, I cannot understand my anger against the government because of the death of my mother who was a member of the NPA. But now that I already have my own family, I realized the importance of my family especially my two-year-old son, how I love them so much. I don’t want them to experience the bitter life that I’ve experienced. I thank the Lord and everyone who helped me along the way. Everything went normal when I chose my family over revolution,” she said in vernacular.

http://www.mb.com.ph/rebel-returnees-receive-livelihood-projects-from-the-government/

MNLF intel officer escapes in drug bust

From the Philippine Star (Aug 27): MNLF intel officer escapes in drug bust

An intelligence officer of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) escaped a drug buy-bust operation Wednesday in a coastal village of Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.

Police Inspector Dahlan Samuddin, information officer of the Police Regional Office 9, identified the suspect as Muksin Batulla, 45, intelligence officer of the MNLF central committee.

His alleged cohorts, Botchoy Ybernas-Daud and Aldazer Idai Sapurani, both residents of Barangay Bucana were captured by the authorities.

Police Chief Inspector Joseph Reales-Maulad, acting police chief of Siocon, said Batulla is ranked No. 2 in the drug watch list personalities of the region.

Maulad and his team conducted the drug buy-bust operation at the house of Batulla, sending a poseur buyer to purchase a small pack of shabu using the marked money.

Batulla however sensed the presence of the authorities and immediately fled the area, leaving his two companions behind.

The operatives recovered a piece of heat sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu, including drug paraphernalia.

Maulad said a manhunt operation is launched to capture Batulla.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/08/27/1492892/mnlf-intel-officer-escapes-drug-bust

US Pacific Command chief ends Philippine visit

From ABS-CBN (Aug 27): US Pacific Command chief ends Philippine visit

US Pacific Command chief Admiral Harry Harris on Thursday capped his three-day visit to the Philippines with a meeting with the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)'s Western Command chief.

AFP WesCom is involved in military operations in the disputer areas in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

"He is an operational commander and I am also an operational commander, so it's a matter of meeting of the minds how do we do things," said AFP Western Command chief Vice Adm. Alexander Lopez, referring to his meeting with Harris.

Harris arrived at the Wescom headquarters in Puerto Princesa City around 10 a.m. Armed Forces chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri also joined the meeting.

According to Lopez, they briefed Harris on the recent developments in the disputed sea, where the Spratly Islands are located.

Earlier reports said China has turned aggressive in its claims in the area over the past years, reclaiming at least seven areas.

"They (Americans) knew it, actually he said 'we know that'," said Lopez, who believe that the US may be more knowledgeable of the developments in the area than the Philippines.

For Lopez, it is only natural for Harris to stay neutral on the issue of China's reclamation.

"They would want to be neutral. They won't take sides…They will be rooting for regional peace and stability, that's all what they want. They don't want violence to break out."

"In whatever form, they will try to be present and prevent (violence), they have plans," said Lopez.

"When we asked how will they (Americans) help, they said they will help in whatever ways," he added.

Wescom spokesperson Lt. Cherryl Tindog said they also introduced Harris to their group.

"We told them what is Wescom, what do we do, what are our peculiar challenges."

"Definitely, West Philippine Sea was part of the briefing because that is where we are busy at present…We discussed the reclamation and construction activities (by China) at the West Philippine Sea because that is our biggest concern, and what we are doing about it," said Tindog.

Tindog said the common reaction of both American and Filipino officials was to maintain security and stability in the area.

"He (Harris) renewed the assurance that US is for the peaceful resolution of the conflict, and they value the long-enduring alliance and friendship of Philippines and US."

Lopez also narrated that it was him who invited Harris to visit the country. He met with Harris at the Shang-rila Dialogue in Singapore in May, a few days after Harris assumed his position as Pacific Command chief.

"I told him that when you're already on area familiarization, you may visit Philippines, visit me at the Western Command. And he said 'I want to visit our command', thus the visit," said Lopez, recalling his conversation with Harris in Singapore.

AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said Iriberri described the meeting "as a great opportunity to further enhance a long lasting and enduring alliance."

"It was also in furtherance of a collective effort at ensuring regional security and stability as well as leveling of expectations," added Padilla.

According to Lopez, he and Harris did not talk about the possibility of US assistance in delivering supplies to Filipino troops in the disputed areas, contrary to what Department of National Defense (DND) spokesman Peter Paul Galvez said.

"We didn't discuss that during our meeting," said Lopez, adding there was no US commitment to deploy US ships or aircraft in the disputed areas.

"Based on the meeting between the SND (secretary of national defense) and Adm. Harris, the US PACOM is ready and willing to lend assistance in our maritime security concerns particularly in ensuring freedom of navigation and flight in the sea," he added.

According to Galvez, the topic of US assistance was raised by the Philippine side during the meeting.

"We brought the issue up due to our previous experiences," he said, referring to harassments done by Chinese ships against resupplying Filipino vessels.

Galvez said such US assistance is needed, given the Chinese threat to Filipino soldiers in the area.

"For security reasons, we are constrained to give details of said assistance…For security missions, we cannot give details on the exact assistance," Galvez said, refusing to elaborate on said assistance.

Harris went back to Manila after the meeting. He arrived in the country on Tuesday.

The USPACOM is the US' unified combatant command tasked to protect US interests in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Its area of operation comprises 36 countries, including the Philippines, Japan, and China.

It covers the largest area among all American geographic combatant units, and utilizes the US Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps to serve its purposes.

This is Harris' first visit to the Philippines as USPACOM commander.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/08/27/15/us-pacific-command-chief-ends-philippine-visit

Army chief orders immediate distribution of new rifles

From ABS-CBN (Aug 27): Army chief orders immediate distribution of new rifles

Army chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano has ordered the immediate distribution of brand new M4 Remington rifles.

Army spokesman Col. Benjamin Hao said the Army is hoping to complete the distribution of the rifles to troops in the frontline before the end of the year.

"The instruction of the commanding general is we will issue these firearms to our troops as soon as the processes are finished. Our target is these firearms will be with our troops before the end of the year," said Hao.

"Right now, the instruction of the commanding general is to release it as soon as all procedures are met," Hao also said, adding that these firearms were supposed to have been distributed as early as last year.

The military set aside P1.9 billion for the acquisition of over 50,000 M4 rifles as part of its ongoing modernization program. Remington began delivering the firearms as early as July last year.

Hao said 44,000 of the firearms were for the Army while the 6,000 others were for the use of Marine soldiers.

President Aquino led the ceremonial turnover of the firearms to Army soldiers the following month, only to be discovered by the military's Technical Inspection and Inspection Committee that the firearms had defects.

Remington was informed of the problem - moving rear sight - involving the firearms for the Army, and the company replaced the part of the firearms and formally accepted by the military last August 13.

The firearms for the Marines, on the other hand, had no defect because they had no rear sights. Placed in the slots for the rear sight were optics or rifle scopes.

At present, a large part of the firearms for the Army are still undergoing ballistic testing by the PNP Crime Laboratory - the last procedure to be hurdled. The firearms are kept at a storage facility in Camp Aguinaldo.

The official said the PNP Crime Laboratory is using the Integrated Ballistic Identification System, a computer-based system that gathers digital images of cartridge casing and bullets fired from these firearms.

Hao acknowledged that the issuance of these firearms was "definitely" delayed brought about by the defects in the delivered firearms.

"It was indeed delayed. You know, when it was first shown to us, the soldiers, including the officials, were very happy. But we don't want to have firearms that have problems…We don't want a moving rear sight," he said.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/08/27/15/army-chief-orders-immediate-distribution-new-rifles

Soldier dead, another wounded in NPA ambush in Davao del Sur

From GMA News (Aug 27): Soldier dead, another wounded in NPA ambush in Davao del Sur

A soldier was killed while another was wounded after they were ambushed by suspected members of the New People's Army in Banganga, Davao del Sur on Wednesday, the Armed Forces revealed on Thursday.

Capt. Alberto Caber, the public affairs officer of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said the soldiers were on a security patrol in Barangay Binondo when they were shot at by the rebels at 11 a.m.

Caber said the rebels withdrew after a 20-minute firefight.

There is no report of deaths from among the rebels.

Meanwhile, members of the 60th IB have arrested a suspected NPA rebel in Barangay Datu Davao in Laak, Compostela Valley.

Caber said the rebel, whose identity isn't immediately available, was inside a nipa hut when he was caught. Two M-16 rifles were seized during the operation.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/534571/news/regions/soldier-dead-another-wounded-in-npa-ambush-in-davao-del-sur