From GMA News (Oct 6): 700 MILF fighters join gov’t’s anti-drugs campaign in Cotabato
Once enemies on the battlefield, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have joined forces to do combat, this time in the government's war against drugs.
The troops of MILF and AFP, despite the unsealed peace deal between them, are tasked to go after groups behind the proliferation of narcotics in Central Mindanao.
“There are 746 Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) mostly from 118th MILF Base Command helping us in tracking these enemy armed groups hiding in Liguasan Marsh," said Colonel Noly Samarita, commander of the 602nd Brigade based in Carmen, Cotabato, on Wednesday.
Samarita is referring to the group of Moks Masgal alias Commander Madrox who heads a lost command group dealing in illegal activities, including the narco trade.
Government troops launched a bigtime operation against the group of Madrox on August 14 but failed to arrest him.
The troops' movements were detected, and an ambush was staged, resulting in the death of three soldiers and the target’s group escape to the marshland of Liguasan at the border of Cotabato and Maguindanao provinces.
“The troops came back today bigtime, this time with MILF troopers and we were successful to arrest one of the suspects of the ambush, the son of Madrox, early morning today,” Samarita added.
He identified the suspect as Kamarudin Masgal, 21. He was arrested at the old house of the main suspect together with nine individuals now being investigated for drug use and trading which others admitted. They are followers of Kumander Madrox.
Samarita said Kamarudin is one of the suspects behind the ambush that killed government troopers.
The manhunt continues as of posting time, forcing joint forces to navigate the vast area of Liguasan Marsh at night using boats to identify the possible location of the target.
The operation is dubbed as a “confidence operation versus illegal drugs,” according to Samarita.
The MILF’s military spokesperson said they would issue an official statement in the next few hours.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/584002/news/regions/700-milf-fighters-join-gov-t-s-anti-drugs-campaign-in-cotabato
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
RMN, Indonesian Navy ships search for missing soldiers
From the Borneo Post Online (Oct 6): RMN, Indonesian Navy ships search for missing soldiers
Ahmad Kamarulzaman (second right) shares a light moment with delegation members after photo-call during the opening the Maritime Warfare Asia 2016 conference. — Bernama photo
Seven Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) vessels, along with three others belonging to Indonesian Navy, have been deployed for the search and rescue (SAR) operation for the two Malaysian soldiers reported missing at sea near Langkawi last Monday.
RMN chief Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin said two RMN-owned Super Lynx and Fennec helicopters were also involved in the operation.
“With the additional assets, the search area has also been expanded,” he told reporters after opening the Maritime Warfare Asia 2016 conference here yesterday.
The two soldiers, who are members of the Fourth Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment, were on duty at Pulau Perak when they went missing after falling into the sea.
Corporal Johbartlee Kanil, 32, from Kota Marudu, Sabah and Corporal Mohd Faizol Rosli, 29, from Baling, Kedah, are currently based in Oran, Perlis.
Without disclosing the search radius, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said it had been expanded in accordance with the ocean currents and involved areas in the Straits of Melaka.
He said the operation, which also involved the Royal Malaysian Air Force and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency personnel, would continue until the two missing soldiers were found.
“We will not stop the SAR operation and we will continue searching even at night, but that depends on the weather conditions,” he said.
Meanwhile, in his opening speech earlier, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said maritime security was one of the topics constantly discussed at international-level conferences, besides efforts to share experiences and innovative approaches in maritime security.
“In addition, methods of cooperation between three Asean member countries concerning security patrol in Sulu Ocean were also discussed to ensure maritime issues could be tackled more effectively with the cooperation between the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia,” he said.
The conference was attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Bangladesh, Australia, India, South Korea, Japan, Turkey, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Singapore and Thailand. — Bernama
http://www.theborneopost.com/2016/10/06/rmn-indonesian-navy-ships-search-for-missing-soldiers/
Ahmad Kamarulzaman (second right) shares a light moment with delegation members after photo-call during the opening the Maritime Warfare Asia 2016 conference. — Bernama photo
Seven Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) vessels, along with three others belonging to Indonesian Navy, have been deployed for the search and rescue (SAR) operation for the two Malaysian soldiers reported missing at sea near Langkawi last Monday.
RMN chief Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin said two RMN-owned Super Lynx and Fennec helicopters were also involved in the operation.
“With the additional assets, the search area has also been expanded,” he told reporters after opening the Maritime Warfare Asia 2016 conference here yesterday.
The two soldiers, who are members of the Fourth Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment, were on duty at Pulau Perak when they went missing after falling into the sea.
Corporal Johbartlee Kanil, 32, from Kota Marudu, Sabah and Corporal Mohd Faizol Rosli, 29, from Baling, Kedah, are currently based in Oran, Perlis.
Without disclosing the search radius, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said it had been expanded in accordance with the ocean currents and involved areas in the Straits of Melaka.
He said the operation, which also involved the Royal Malaysian Air Force and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency personnel, would continue until the two missing soldiers were found.
“We will not stop the SAR operation and we will continue searching even at night, but that depends on the weather conditions,” he said.
Meanwhile, in his opening speech earlier, Ahmad Kamarulzaman said maritime security was one of the topics constantly discussed at international-level conferences, besides efforts to share experiences and innovative approaches in maritime security.
“In addition, methods of cooperation between three Asean member countries concerning security patrol in Sulu Ocean were also discussed to ensure maritime issues could be tackled more effectively with the cooperation between the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia,” he said.
The conference was attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Bangladesh, Australia, India, South Korea, Japan, Turkey, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Singapore and Thailand. — Bernama
http://www.theborneopost.com/2016/10/06/rmn-indonesian-navy-ships-search-for-missing-soldiers/
The struggle for peace in Mindanao
From the East Asia Forum (Oct 6): The struggle for peace in Mindanao (By Mark Turner)
Duterte has called for an end to ‘centuries of mistrust and warfare’ on Mindanao at his first State of the Nation address. This plea related to a consistent theme of President Duterte’s election campaign — how to secure peace and development in Mindanao.
He has acknowledged ‘historical injustices’ committed against the Muslim or Moro people and the need to correct them. He has also stated that he is ideally equipped to end the conflict which has been dragging on for almost half a century.
The Muslim populations of Mindanao and neighbouring small islands were subject to US colonial rule at the beginning of the 20th century. But mistrust of the Manila government and the mass migration of Christians from other more populated islands led to conflict and full-scale warfare in the 1970s.
Since then, there have been various peace initiatives by past presidents: the Tripoli Agreement of Ferdinand Marcos in 1976; the creation of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARRM) under Corazon Aquino in 1989; the peace agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in 1997 when Fidel Ramos was the president; and Benigno Aquino’s Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2014.
With the latter agreement it was hoped that a final peace would be obtained. But the tragic massacre of 44 Special Action Force police in January 2015 derailed the passing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by Congress.
It is now President Duterte’s turn to pursue peace and he appears to have a combination of factors working in his favour.
First, he has prioritised peace in Mindanao, establishing it as an important agenda item at the beginning of his administration. This gives him ample time to hammer home his peace mantra and secure the support of a wide range of NGOs, the population and congress. And, he currently has the highest trust rating ever for a Philippine president, plus a ‘super majority’ in the congress.
Second, coming from Mindanao, he is credited with being more familiar with Mindanao politics and leaders than his presidential predecessors. As the Vice-Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Ghazali Jaafar recently stated of President Duterte, ‘No one will understand better the Moro issue but a Mindanaon’. Many others adhere to this view, especially in Mindanao.
Third, he has adopted an inclusive orientation involving the most significant Muslim groups, notably the MNLF, the MILF and politicians from the ARRM. A weakness of earlier agreements was that significant Muslim actors were often omitted, leading to antagonism or lack of cooperation.
This time, leaders of the MILF and MNLF have declared their trust in President Duterte and his ability to bring about a lasting and comprehensive peace agreement. They have even established formal arrangements for cooperation to ensure a united Moro front.
Finally, the choice of Jesus Dureza as Presidential Peace Adviser brings in another man of great Mindanao experience, including with earlier peace negotiations. Dureza has also indicated that he seeks to build on earlier work and that there should be a ‘peace dividend’ in the form of concrete developmental gains for the citizens of Mindanao.
But there is a long way to go to realise President Duterte’s ambitions of peace and potential problems lie ahead. One is the lack of clarity about the ‘roadmap’ to peace. In his State of the Nation address, President Duterte said he would ask the Congress to pass the BBL ‘minus the constitutional issues that are contentious’.
But apart from a police force under the control of the Bangsamoro authority, it is not clear what the other constitutional issues are. Nor will it be easy to get the Moro groups to agree to their omission from a final agreement or to get congress to pass the law.
Adding to the uncertainty is President Duterte’s determination to push through legislation for a federal system of government. He has provided no clear rationale for this dramatic change and no indication of how it would work.
While President Duterte is currently enjoying great popularity, this is not indefinite. The Mamasapano massacre resulted in a massive swing of public opinion against the BBL, including in Christian-majority areas of Mindanao. Current public opinion on the BBL is unknown. And it is not known how well cooperation between the different Moro groups will proceed.
The fragmentation of the MNLF into at least three factions could also be problematic. And violence created by the Abu Sayyaf and several other splinter groups opposed to peace could turn into a major obstacle if more people are kidnapped and killed and property destroyed.
Finally, a major stumbling block with previous peace agreements has been implementation. Moro groups have claimed that previous agreements were not fully implemented. Securing a peace agreement has proved to be the easier part of peace making in Mindanao. The future success of any peace agreement in Mindanao hinges on its implementation.
Mark Turner is Honorary Professor at the School of Business, UNSW Canberra.
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2016/10/06/the-struggle-for-peace-in-mindanao/
Duterte has called for an end to ‘centuries of mistrust and warfare’ on Mindanao at his first State of the Nation address. This plea related to a consistent theme of President Duterte’s election campaign — how to secure peace and development in Mindanao.
He has acknowledged ‘historical injustices’ committed against the Muslim or Moro people and the need to correct them. He has also stated that he is ideally equipped to end the conflict which has been dragging on for almost half a century.
The Muslim populations of Mindanao and neighbouring small islands were subject to US colonial rule at the beginning of the 20th century. But mistrust of the Manila government and the mass migration of Christians from other more populated islands led to conflict and full-scale warfare in the 1970s.
Since then, there have been various peace initiatives by past presidents: the Tripoli Agreement of Ferdinand Marcos in 1976; the creation of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARRM) under Corazon Aquino in 1989; the peace agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in 1997 when Fidel Ramos was the president; and Benigno Aquino’s Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2014.
With the latter agreement it was hoped that a final peace would be obtained. But the tragic massacre of 44 Special Action Force police in January 2015 derailed the passing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by Congress.
It is now President Duterte’s turn to pursue peace and he appears to have a combination of factors working in his favour.
First, he has prioritised peace in Mindanao, establishing it as an important agenda item at the beginning of his administration. This gives him ample time to hammer home his peace mantra and secure the support of a wide range of NGOs, the population and congress. And, he currently has the highest trust rating ever for a Philippine president, plus a ‘super majority’ in the congress.
Second, coming from Mindanao, he is credited with being more familiar with Mindanao politics and leaders than his presidential predecessors. As the Vice-Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Ghazali Jaafar recently stated of President Duterte, ‘No one will understand better the Moro issue but a Mindanaon’. Many others adhere to this view, especially in Mindanao.
Third, he has adopted an inclusive orientation involving the most significant Muslim groups, notably the MNLF, the MILF and politicians from the ARRM. A weakness of earlier agreements was that significant Muslim actors were often omitted, leading to antagonism or lack of cooperation.
This time, leaders of the MILF and MNLF have declared their trust in President Duterte and his ability to bring about a lasting and comprehensive peace agreement. They have even established formal arrangements for cooperation to ensure a united Moro front.
Finally, the choice of Jesus Dureza as Presidential Peace Adviser brings in another man of great Mindanao experience, including with earlier peace negotiations. Dureza has also indicated that he seeks to build on earlier work and that there should be a ‘peace dividend’ in the form of concrete developmental gains for the citizens of Mindanao.
But there is a long way to go to realise President Duterte’s ambitions of peace and potential problems lie ahead. One is the lack of clarity about the ‘roadmap’ to peace. In his State of the Nation address, President Duterte said he would ask the Congress to pass the BBL ‘minus the constitutional issues that are contentious’.
But apart from a police force under the control of the Bangsamoro authority, it is not clear what the other constitutional issues are. Nor will it be easy to get the Moro groups to agree to their omission from a final agreement or to get congress to pass the law.
Adding to the uncertainty is President Duterte’s determination to push through legislation for a federal system of government. He has provided no clear rationale for this dramatic change and no indication of how it would work.
While President Duterte is currently enjoying great popularity, this is not indefinite. The Mamasapano massacre resulted in a massive swing of public opinion against the BBL, including in Christian-majority areas of Mindanao. Current public opinion on the BBL is unknown. And it is not known how well cooperation between the different Moro groups will proceed.
The fragmentation of the MNLF into at least three factions could also be problematic. And violence created by the Abu Sayyaf and several other splinter groups opposed to peace could turn into a major obstacle if more people are kidnapped and killed and property destroyed.
Finally, a major stumbling block with previous peace agreements has been implementation. Moro groups have claimed that previous agreements were not fully implemented. Securing a peace agreement has proved to be the easier part of peace making in Mindanao. The future success of any peace agreement in Mindanao hinges on its implementation.
Mark Turner is Honorary Professor at the School of Business, UNSW Canberra.
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2016/10/06/the-struggle-for-peace-in-mindanao/
PAF says perfectly normal to stockpile aircraft spares including engines
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 6): PAF says perfectly normal to stockpile aircraft spares including engines
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced that it is perfectly normal to acquire and stockpile various aircraft spare parts including engines.
This was disclosed by PAF spokesperson Col. Antonio Z. Francisco in a message to the Philippines News Agency on Wednesday.
"Yes, its perfectly normal to have spare engines. We do that in all of our aircraft," he added.
Francisco issued this reply when queried about the Department of National Defense (DND) announcement that it is allocating PHP416,476,000 for the acquisition of brand-new engine unit for one of its two FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft.
Funds for the engine will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Earlier, reports claimed that the engine of one of the two operational FA-50PHs was totally destroyed after a bird strike in Clark Field, Pampanga.
The first two FA-50PHs, out of 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries, was delivered last November.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the engine within 720 days upon receipt of Notice to Proceed.
They should have also completed a similar project within the last five years.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement, left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10 a.m. at the same venue.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=929072
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced that it is perfectly normal to acquire and stockpile various aircraft spare parts including engines.
This was disclosed by PAF spokesperson Col. Antonio Z. Francisco in a message to the Philippines News Agency on Wednesday.
"Yes, its perfectly normal to have spare engines. We do that in all of our aircraft," he added.
Francisco issued this reply when queried about the Department of National Defense (DND) announcement that it is allocating PHP416,476,000 for the acquisition of brand-new engine unit for one of its two FA-50 "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft.
Funds for the engine will be sourced from the Philippine Air Force General Appropriations Act CY 2016.
Earlier, reports claimed that the engine of one of the two operational FA-50PHs was totally destroyed after a bird strike in Clark Field, Pampanga.
The first two FA-50PHs, out of 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries, was delivered last November.
Winning bidders are required to deliver the engine within 720 days upon receipt of Notice to Proceed.
They should have also completed a similar project within the last five years.
The DND Bids and Awards Committee will hold a pre-bid conference on Oct. 13, 10 a.m. at the DND BAC Conference Room, basement, left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
While bid opening is on Oct. 25, 10 a.m. at the same venue.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=929072
Cooperation reason why PHL, US marines working very well together, says PHL marine official
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 6): Cooperation reason why PHL, US marines working very well together, says PHL marine official
Cooperation is the reason why the Philippines' and the US' marine corps are working together very well, the head of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) has said.
"Both within and outside our Marine Corps, cooperation is a key factor in the institutionalization of the culture of jointness. Jointness, on a side note, gives us the assurance of inter-operability among marine units with different flags, diverging motivations, and proud roots," Maj. Gen. Andre Costales said, adding that the lack of inter-operability undermines "the integration inside an organization".
"Without integration within, we can expect a lot of challenges and task saturation," he added.
Costales said the ongoing Philippines Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) presents a wonderful opportunity to maximize integration among members of the PMC and the US Marine Corps.
PHIBLEX started last Oct. 4 and will end on October 12. Some 1,400 American soldiers and 500 Filipino troops are participating in the eight-day maneuvers.
"It further provides an avenue for closer integration among Filipinos and other partner nationalities of goodwill. PHIBLEX is presented as a military platform for cooperation, but let us not limit the extent of its effects only in the development of military skills and military inter-operability," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=929116
Cooperation is the reason why the Philippines' and the US' marine corps are working together very well, the head of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) has said.
"Both within and outside our Marine Corps, cooperation is a key factor in the institutionalization of the culture of jointness. Jointness, on a side note, gives us the assurance of inter-operability among marine units with different flags, diverging motivations, and proud roots," Maj. Gen. Andre Costales said, adding that the lack of inter-operability undermines "the integration inside an organization".
"Without integration within, we can expect a lot of challenges and task saturation," he added.
Costales said the ongoing Philippines Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) presents a wonderful opportunity to maximize integration among members of the PMC and the US Marine Corps.
PHIBLEX started last Oct. 4 and will end on October 12. Some 1,400 American soldiers and 500 Filipino troops are participating in the eight-day maneuvers.
"It further provides an avenue for closer integration among Filipinos and other partner nationalities of goodwill. PHIBLEX is presented as a military platform for cooperation, but let us not limit the extent of its effects only in the development of military skills and military inter-operability," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=929116
Baguio dad challenges PMA cadets to persevere
From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 5): Baguio dad challenges PMA cadets to persevere
“Never give up, never give up and never give up,” said Mayor Maurico G. Domogan as he challenged the Cadet Corps of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to be strong physically and mentally in facing the rigid day to day life in the academy.
Domogan, chairman of the PMA Host Parents Association Inc. (PMAHPA), encouraged the cadets especially those who s from less fortunate families to take advantage of the opportunities offered to them at PMA.
The mayor presented his seven core messages to the cadets: in everything you do put God first; love what you do; be passionate; stay healthy; guard yours minds to think only of good things; work smartly until your dreams became reality and do not compromise your integrity.
PMA Superintendent Major General Donato B. San Juan II acknowledged the support of the Baguio host parents in helping raise the cadets to become professionals and deserving leaders of the country in the future.
The PMA Host Parent program was formed in 1979 with the objective of bringing in a good relationship between the community and the PMA cadets as well as to encourage local folks to have a significant role in shaping the character and values of the cadets as future leaders.
Hiyasmin Bardilas, an active host parent, shared that they have to see to it that their foster cadets are studying well and doing their responsibilities at PMA, and guide and give them advices. They also bring them out for community immersion and social activities.
“We have to do our role as second parent to our ward. We have to make them feel that they have a family here because their biological families are far away; it’s providing them a home away from home”, Bardilas said.
For those who want to be a PMA host parent, you can get or submit your application to the Mayor’s Office at the Baguio City Hall or to the Office of the Military Affairs (MA) – 7 at the PMA in Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/91474959468/baguio-dad-challenges-pma-cadets-to-persevere
“Never give up, never give up and never give up,” said Mayor Maurico G. Domogan as he challenged the Cadet Corps of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to be strong physically and mentally in facing the rigid day to day life in the academy.
Domogan, chairman of the PMA Host Parents Association Inc. (PMAHPA), encouraged the cadets especially those who s from less fortunate families to take advantage of the opportunities offered to them at PMA.
The mayor presented his seven core messages to the cadets: in everything you do put God first; love what you do; be passionate; stay healthy; guard yours minds to think only of good things; work smartly until your dreams became reality and do not compromise your integrity.
PMA Superintendent Major General Donato B. San Juan II acknowledged the support of the Baguio host parents in helping raise the cadets to become professionals and deserving leaders of the country in the future.
The PMA Host Parent program was formed in 1979 with the objective of bringing in a good relationship between the community and the PMA cadets as well as to encourage local folks to have a significant role in shaping the character and values of the cadets as future leaders.
Hiyasmin Bardilas, an active host parent, shared that they have to see to it that their foster cadets are studying well and doing their responsibilities at PMA, and guide and give them advices. They also bring them out for community immersion and social activities.
“We have to do our role as second parent to our ward. We have to make them feel that they have a family here because their biological families are far away; it’s providing them a home away from home”, Bardilas said.
For those who want to be a PMA host parent, you can get or submit your application to the Mayor’s Office at the Baguio City Hall or to the Office of the Military Affairs (MA) – 7 at the PMA in Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/91474959468/baguio-dad-challenges-pma-cadets-to-persevere
U.S.-Philippine law enforcement cooperation results in arrest of cocaine smuggler
From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 6): U.S.-Philippine law enforcement cooperation results in arrest of cocaine smuggler
The United States Embassy in Manila congratulations to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and member agencies of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group on the arrest of Jonjon Villamin, Jr. for attempting to smuggle 4.4 kilograms of cocaine into the Philippines.
The Embassy said, "We are especially pleased that information from the U.S. Embassy's Drug Enforcement Administration Office was instrumental in making this arrest, a testament to our longstanding bilateral counternarcotics and law enforcement coordination." (US Embassy Manila)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475672362/u-s--philippine-law-enforcement-cooperation-results-in-arrest-of-cocaine-smuggler
The United States Embassy in Manila congratulations to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and member agencies of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group on the arrest of Jonjon Villamin, Jr. for attempting to smuggle 4.4 kilograms of cocaine into the Philippines.
The Embassy said, "We are especially pleased that information from the U.S. Embassy's Drug Enforcement Administration Office was instrumental in making this arrest, a testament to our longstanding bilateral counternarcotics and law enforcement coordination." (US Embassy Manila)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475672362/u-s--philippine-law-enforcement-cooperation-results-in-arrest-of-cocaine-smuggler
U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces repair schools in Cagayan Valley
From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 5): U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces repair schools in Cagayan Valley
U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB) have been working alongside their Armed Forces of the Philippines counterparts to repair portions of the Palawig and San Vicente Elementary Schools in Cagayan Valley from Sept. 23 – Oct. 11. The construction work is part of Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX), a U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise that includes community assistance projects. In addition to repair work, members of the U.S. armed forces are also conducting first aid and dental hygiene classes for approximately 60 local students.
3d MEB’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region facilitates quick response to areas affected by humanitarian disasters to save lives and reduce human suffering. Bilateral exercises such as PHIBLEX 33 ensure the U.S. and Philippine armed forces train together to respond effectively during a real-world humanitarian disaster.
3d MEB is in the Philippines to participate in PHIBLEX 33, which is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions to include humanitarian assistance and amphibious capabilities demonstration. (US Embassy Manila) .
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475674926/u-s-and-philippine-armed-forces-repair-schools-in-cagayan-valley
U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB) have been working alongside their Armed Forces of the Philippines counterparts to repair portions of the Palawig and San Vicente Elementary Schools in Cagayan Valley from Sept. 23 – Oct. 11. The construction work is part of Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX), a U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise that includes community assistance projects. In addition to repair work, members of the U.S. armed forces are also conducting first aid and dental hygiene classes for approximately 60 local students.
3d MEB’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region facilitates quick response to areas affected by humanitarian disasters to save lives and reduce human suffering. Bilateral exercises such as PHIBLEX 33 ensure the U.S. and Philippine armed forces train together to respond effectively during a real-world humanitarian disaster.
3d MEB is in the Philippines to participate in PHIBLEX 33, which is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions to include humanitarian assistance and amphibious capabilities demonstration. (US Embassy Manila) .
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475674926/u-s-and-philippine-armed-forces-repair-schools-in-cagayan-valley
U.S. Air Contingent enhances Philippine military, civilian mass casualty response skills
From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (Sep 29): U.S. Air Contingent enhances Philippine military, civilian mass casualty response skills
U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Mark Gaskins, a hospital corpsman (right), observes proper patient loading procedures during a civilian and military disaster response exercise as part of the current iteration of a rotational Air Contingent at Brigadier General Benito N Ebuen Air Base, Philippines Sept. 29, 2016. Two C-130 Hercules aircraft and crews from the 374th Airlift Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan, the 36th Contingency Response Group from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and other units from across U.S. Pacific Command conducted bilateral training missions and subject matter expert exchanges alongside their Philippine Air Force counterparts. The Air Contingent is helping build the capacity of the Philippine Air Force and increases joint training, promotes interoperability and provides greater and more transparent air and maritime situational awareness to ensure safety for military and civilian activities in international waters and airspace. Its missions include air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, combating piracy, and assuring access to the air and maritime domains in accordance with international law. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Mark Lazane)
BRIGADIER GENERAL BENITO N EBUEN AIR BASE, LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines-- Senior military representatives from both the United States and the Philippines completed the joint and bilateral U.S.-Philippine mass casualty response training with a capstone event here as part of U.S. Pacific Command’s Air Contingent Sept. 29.
The Air Contingent is helping build the capacity of the Philippine Air Force and increases joint training, promotes interoperability and provides greater and more transparent air and maritime situational awareness to ensure safety for military and civilian activities in international waters and airspace. Its missions include air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, combating piracy, and assuring access to the air and maritime domains in accordance with international law.
For this engagement, U.S. experts in mass casualty response from across the Department of Defense exchanged ideas and techniques with their Filipino military and civilian counterparts in the critical skills of triaging, staging, treating and transporting victims of a mass casualty event, a critical skill in an area of the world long-affected by disasters of various size and scope.
The culminating event was a simulated mass casualty event in which Philippine military and civilian personnel had to rapidly assess, treat and transfer over 100 patients, tracking their movements and ensuring patients’ injuries were treated to the best of their ability while awaiting transport.
“I help them utilize their plan to create organization,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Courtney Finkbeiner, casualty evacuation mission commander for the event. “Once they have an organized plan, they can move forward with action.”
Transportation for the drill was provided by U.S. and Filipino air assets, including Philippine Air Force UH-1 helicopters as well as C-130s from both the United States and the Philippines.
The airpower component afforded the opportunity for Philippine medical providers to practice patient care and loading procedures with C-130 engines running, with the planes then taking off and flying a pattern to simulate real-world patient flow.
“They’ve never worked with their Air Force for an exercise like this,” said Finkbeiner. “Just building that communication is huge. They’ll trust that if there’s an issue and they need to evacuate patients, someone from their Air Force will be able to communicate with them and help get them resources.”
“This was a good exercise because it incorporated all the affected entities and local government units,” said Philippine Army Capt. Melvin Hiponia, deputy education and training officer, 53rd Engineering Brigade. “It allows us to have the big picture as to what will happen in a real scenario, to find out how to sort through the chaos and to understand what to improve upon. I hope the U.S. will continue to give support for the capability enhancement that covers exercises like this.”
The relationship between the U.S. military and both civic and military leaders throughout the Philippines is marked by a long tradition of cooperation.
“The United States armed forces has a wealth of experience assisting with mass casualty response, coupled with advanced equipment,” said Rhafael Luche, Cebu provincial disaster response officer. “The Philippines has a lot to learn in terms of technology, tactics and techniques. We learned a lot from today’s exercises and we will take the good points and integrate them into our system. Perhaps we can conduct more similar exercises of this nature to further improve upon what we’ve already learned.”
The deployment of the air contingent detachment is another example of how the United States and the Philippines are committed to maintaining credible combat power throughout the Indo-Asia Pacific region while the U.S. continues to work closely with the Philippines and our network of partner nations.
“This is how it’s supposed to be, the way it came out today,” said Finkbeiner. “It’s even better than I thought it would be. The Filipinos feel good about it and about themselves, they trust their system, they trust each other. I’m in awe of the leadership not only in the province of Cebu but in their military system. I’m in awe of how they stood up to the challenge and took it head on and improvised and made this a huge success.”
This is just one way the U.S. is demonstrating our commitment to our partners and allies in the region.
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/211227/us-air-contingent-enhances-philippine-military-civilian-mass-casualty-response-skills
U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Mark Gaskins, a hospital corpsman (right), observes proper patient loading procedures during a civilian and military disaster response exercise as part of the current iteration of a rotational Air Contingent at Brigadier General Benito N Ebuen Air Base, Philippines Sept. 29, 2016. Two C-130 Hercules aircraft and crews from the 374th Airlift Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan, the 36th Contingency Response Group from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and other units from across U.S. Pacific Command conducted bilateral training missions and subject matter expert exchanges alongside their Philippine Air Force counterparts. The Air Contingent is helping build the capacity of the Philippine Air Force and increases joint training, promotes interoperability and provides greater and more transparent air and maritime situational awareness to ensure safety for military and civilian activities in international waters and airspace. Its missions include air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, combating piracy, and assuring access to the air and maritime domains in accordance with international law. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Mark Lazane)
BRIGADIER GENERAL BENITO N EBUEN AIR BASE, LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines-- Senior military representatives from both the United States and the Philippines completed the joint and bilateral U.S.-Philippine mass casualty response training with a capstone event here as part of U.S. Pacific Command’s Air Contingent Sept. 29.
The Air Contingent is helping build the capacity of the Philippine Air Force and increases joint training, promotes interoperability and provides greater and more transparent air and maritime situational awareness to ensure safety for military and civilian activities in international waters and airspace. Its missions include air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, combating piracy, and assuring access to the air and maritime domains in accordance with international law.
For this engagement, U.S. experts in mass casualty response from across the Department of Defense exchanged ideas and techniques with their Filipino military and civilian counterparts in the critical skills of triaging, staging, treating and transporting victims of a mass casualty event, a critical skill in an area of the world long-affected by disasters of various size and scope.
The culminating event was a simulated mass casualty event in which Philippine military and civilian personnel had to rapidly assess, treat and transfer over 100 patients, tracking their movements and ensuring patients’ injuries were treated to the best of their ability while awaiting transport.
“I help them utilize their plan to create organization,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Courtney Finkbeiner, casualty evacuation mission commander for the event. “Once they have an organized plan, they can move forward with action.”
Transportation for the drill was provided by U.S. and Filipino air assets, including Philippine Air Force UH-1 helicopters as well as C-130s from both the United States and the Philippines.
The airpower component afforded the opportunity for Philippine medical providers to practice patient care and loading procedures with C-130 engines running, with the planes then taking off and flying a pattern to simulate real-world patient flow.
“They’ve never worked with their Air Force for an exercise like this,” said Finkbeiner. “Just building that communication is huge. They’ll trust that if there’s an issue and they need to evacuate patients, someone from their Air Force will be able to communicate with them and help get them resources.”
“This was a good exercise because it incorporated all the affected entities and local government units,” said Philippine Army Capt. Melvin Hiponia, deputy education and training officer, 53rd Engineering Brigade. “It allows us to have the big picture as to what will happen in a real scenario, to find out how to sort through the chaos and to understand what to improve upon. I hope the U.S. will continue to give support for the capability enhancement that covers exercises like this.”
The relationship between the U.S. military and both civic and military leaders throughout the Philippines is marked by a long tradition of cooperation.
“The United States armed forces has a wealth of experience assisting with mass casualty response, coupled with advanced equipment,” said Rhafael Luche, Cebu provincial disaster response officer. “The Philippines has a lot to learn in terms of technology, tactics and techniques. We learned a lot from today’s exercises and we will take the good points and integrate them into our system. Perhaps we can conduct more similar exercises of this nature to further improve upon what we’ve already learned.”
The deployment of the air contingent detachment is another example of how the United States and the Philippines are committed to maintaining credible combat power throughout the Indo-Asia Pacific region while the U.S. continues to work closely with the Philippines and our network of partner nations.
“This is how it’s supposed to be, the way it came out today,” said Finkbeiner. “It’s even better than I thought it would be. The Filipinos feel good about it and about themselves, they trust their system, they trust each other. I’m in awe of the leadership not only in the province of Cebu but in their military system. I’m in awe of how they stood up to the challenge and took it head on and improvised and made this a huge success.”
This is just one way the U.S. is demonstrating our commitment to our partners and allies in the region.
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/211227/us-air-contingent-enhances-philippine-military-civilian-mass-casualty-response-skills
Philippines set to re-launch bid to acquire close-air support aircraft
From IHS Janes 360 (Oct 5): Philippines set to re-launch bid to acquire close-air support aircraft
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is preparing to launch its fourth bid in two years to procure close-air support (CAS) aircraft, IHS Jane's understands.
The Philippines Air Force is looking to replace its fleet of OV-10 Bronco aircraft (seen here in US Air Force colours) in the close-air support role. (US Department of Defense/Tech Sgt Hans H Deffner)
A source confirmed on 4 October that the PAF is scheduled to issue another request for proposals (RFP) in the coming months and that the programme is expected to be competed for by two aircraft: the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano and Beechcraft T-6 Texan II, a US version of the Swiss Pilatus PC-9 Advanced Turbo Trainer.
IHS Jane's understands from PAF officials that the Super Tucano is the preferred platform.
Previously published tender documents show that the programme features the acquisition of six CAS aircraft and an accompanying logistics support package for PHP4.9 billion (USD101 million).
The project was launched in 2014 but has repeatedly failed at the bidding stage due partly to specifications that have disqualified potential candidates. For instance, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KT-1C, an armed version of the KT-1 Woong-Bee trainer, did not meet payload requirements.
It is believed that other candidates have failed due to the requirements of the Philippine defence procurement process. A particular stumbling block has been the stipulation, outlined in tender documents, for the successful supplier to already have exported its product to the armed forces in the country of origin or used by the armed forces of at least two foreign countries.
This requirement is one of the main reasons why the Super Tucano is considered in Manila as the favoured option. As well as meeting technical requirements, the aircraft is operated by the Brazilian Air Force as well as several foreign air forces, including those in Indonesia, Colombia, Chile and Ecuador.
A source told IHS Jane's that the RFP is expected to be issued "very soon". Recent delays in the programme, he said, were due to changes in administration in the Philippines.
[Subscription required for full article.]
http://www.janes.com/article/64358/philippines-set-to-re-launch-bid-to-acquire-close-air-support-aircraft
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is preparing to launch its fourth bid in two years to procure close-air support (CAS) aircraft, IHS Jane's understands.
The Philippines Air Force is looking to replace its fleet of OV-10 Bronco aircraft (seen here in US Air Force colours) in the close-air support role. (US Department of Defense/Tech Sgt Hans H Deffner)
A source confirmed on 4 October that the PAF is scheduled to issue another request for proposals (RFP) in the coming months and that the programme is expected to be competed for by two aircraft: the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano and Beechcraft T-6 Texan II, a US version of the Swiss Pilatus PC-9 Advanced Turbo Trainer.
IHS Jane's understands from PAF officials that the Super Tucano is the preferred platform.
Previously published tender documents show that the programme features the acquisition of six CAS aircraft and an accompanying logistics support package for PHP4.9 billion (USD101 million).
The project was launched in 2014 but has repeatedly failed at the bidding stage due partly to specifications that have disqualified potential candidates. For instance, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KT-1C, an armed version of the KT-1 Woong-Bee trainer, did not meet payload requirements.
It is believed that other candidates have failed due to the requirements of the Philippine defence procurement process. A particular stumbling block has been the stipulation, outlined in tender documents, for the successful supplier to already have exported its product to the armed forces in the country of origin or used by the armed forces of at least two foreign countries.
This requirement is one of the main reasons why the Super Tucano is considered in Manila as the favoured option. As well as meeting technical requirements, the aircraft is operated by the Brazilian Air Force as well as several foreign air forces, including those in Indonesia, Colombia, Chile and Ecuador.
A source told IHS Jane's that the RFP is expected to be issued "very soon". Recent delays in the programme, he said, were due to changes in administration in the Philippines.
[Subscription required for full article.]
http://www.janes.com/article/64358/philippines-set-to-re-launch-bid-to-acquire-close-air-support-aircraft
U.S., Philippine Marines Participate in Engineering Civic Assistance Project
From the Defense Video Imagery Distribution System (Sep 28): U.S., Philippine Marines Participate in Engineering Civic Assistance Project
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Eneas Mori participates in the engineering civic assistance project at the Palawig Elementary School during Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX) in Cagayan, Philippines, Sept. 24, 2016. PHIBLEX is a bilateral training exercise designed to improve the interoperability, readiness and professional relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps and partner nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carl King)
The famous entrepreneur Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”
During the engineering civic assistance project in Cagayan Valley, Philippines, U.S. and Philippine service members have done exactly that — come together, kept together, and worked together with a focus on success.
U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, III Marine Expeditionary Force, recently deployed in support of Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX). PHIBLEX is an annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral exercise that is a signature element of their alliance focused on a variety of missions including humanitarian assistance and amphibious capabilities demonstration.
The partnered nations are currently working side by side for 10 to 12 hours per day to renovate the San Vicente Elementary School and the Palawig Elementary School, which have extensive damage caused by weather and erosion over the years.
“The buildings were almost completely destroyed due to the typhoons and heavy weather that come through the Philippines on a yearly basis,” said U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Justin Kabilian, the civil affairs officer for Bravo Co., 9th ESB. “The students could not sit in the class rooms because of the damaged infrastructure and some of the classes had to be held outside.”
The service members are not only renovating the schools, but are also working on military cohesion in the event that they would have to work together because of a natural disaster.
“This is my first time with the [U.S.] Marines and it is great,” said Seaman 2nd Class Ariel Calingacion, a sailor with the Philippine Navy. “I feel comfortable working with them.”
“It’s very easy working alongside the Philippine service members, because they are very knowledgeable,” said Lance Cpl. Ricardo Montes, an Orland, Calif., native, and combat engineer with Bravo Co., 9th ESB. “They know a lot about construction and are very versatile.”
Each year, PHIBLEX provides an opportunity for the U.S. and Philippine armed forces to learn together, exchange best practices and build enduring relationships.
“The purpose of this exercise is to generally rehearse the concepts we have learned overtime with the Philippine military, those concepts being operations we would have to perform in a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission,” said Kabilian, a native of Marshfield, Mass.
3d MEB generates speed of response in the Asia-Pacific region to areas affected by humanitarian disasters and provides capability as quickly as possible to save lives and reduce human suffering. Bilateral exercises such as PHIBLEX 33 ensure the U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces train together to respond effectively during a real-world humanitarian disaster.
“[I am] looking forward to a better future and better cooperation between the U.S. Marines, U.S. Seabees and all of you,” said Calingacion. “Thank you for caring and we love you guys.”
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/211318/us-philippine-marines-participate-engineering-civic-assistance-project
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Eneas Mori participates in the engineering civic assistance project at the Palawig Elementary School during Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX) in Cagayan, Philippines, Sept. 24, 2016. PHIBLEX is a bilateral training exercise designed to improve the interoperability, readiness and professional relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps and partner nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carl King)
The famous entrepreneur Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”
During the engineering civic assistance project in Cagayan Valley, Philippines, U.S. and Philippine service members have done exactly that — come together, kept together, and worked together with a focus on success.
U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, III Marine Expeditionary Force, recently deployed in support of Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 (PHIBLEX). PHIBLEX is an annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral exercise that is a signature element of their alliance focused on a variety of missions including humanitarian assistance and amphibious capabilities demonstration.
The partnered nations are currently working side by side for 10 to 12 hours per day to renovate the San Vicente Elementary School and the Palawig Elementary School, which have extensive damage caused by weather and erosion over the years.
“The buildings were almost completely destroyed due to the typhoons and heavy weather that come through the Philippines on a yearly basis,” said U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Justin Kabilian, the civil affairs officer for Bravo Co., 9th ESB. “The students could not sit in the class rooms because of the damaged infrastructure and some of the classes had to be held outside.”
The service members are not only renovating the schools, but are also working on military cohesion in the event that they would have to work together because of a natural disaster.
“This is my first time with the [U.S.] Marines and it is great,” said Seaman 2nd Class Ariel Calingacion, a sailor with the Philippine Navy. “I feel comfortable working with them.”
“It’s very easy working alongside the Philippine service members, because they are very knowledgeable,” said Lance Cpl. Ricardo Montes, an Orland, Calif., native, and combat engineer with Bravo Co., 9th ESB. “They know a lot about construction and are very versatile.”
Each year, PHIBLEX provides an opportunity for the U.S. and Philippine armed forces to learn together, exchange best practices and build enduring relationships.
“The purpose of this exercise is to generally rehearse the concepts we have learned overtime with the Philippine military, those concepts being operations we would have to perform in a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission,” said Kabilian, a native of Marshfield, Mass.
3d MEB generates speed of response in the Asia-Pacific region to areas affected by humanitarian disasters and provides capability as quickly as possible to save lives and reduce human suffering. Bilateral exercises such as PHIBLEX 33 ensure the U.S. and Philippine Armed Forces train together to respond effectively during a real-world humanitarian disaster.
“[I am] looking forward to a better future and better cooperation between the U.S. Marines, U.S. Seabees and all of you,” said Calingacion. “Thank you for caring and we love you guys.”
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/211318/us-philippine-marines-participate-engineering-civic-assistance-project
Duterte vows to equip Army to fight well
From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 6): Duterte vows to equip Army to fight well
President Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to provide the military with more firearms for protection in the fight against illegal drugs and criminality.
During his visit to the Philippine Army headquarters on Tuesday October 4, President Duterte reiterated his resolve to end the country’s problem on illegal drugs but ensuring that no soldier or policemen would be killed in the process.
“In my time, you’d have everything you need to fight effectively. You have no problem with me. You have priority in government spending just do your duty because I know how hard it is to keep the peace of the country and to protect its integrity,” he said.
“It’s a very difficult job. It’s a very tall order that’s why I asked [National Defense Secretary] Delfin [Lorenzana], buy as many Barretts as possible. We’re doing well with the long-range thing and Kevlar,” he added.
The President even quipped that he would want to provide each soldier with two pistols just to make sure that they defeat their enemies.
The 120,000-strong military force will be equipped with Glock 30 .45 caliber pistol.
“Until the last pusher is out of the streets, this campaign will continue even if it will cost me my life, my honor, and even the presidency itself,” the President said.
Seeing the gravity of the drug problem, Duterte again called on the soldiers to finish the fight against illegal drugs until the end to save the next generation of Filipinos.
“I’m not asking for loyalty, I’m not even asking for nice words. But in case I go, before the problem is solved, or if the problem would outlast me, you have seen the monster that has four million, scattered all over the country, it will destroy the country forever,” he said. “If it would outlast me: kindly take care of your country. Finish this problem,” he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475668568/duterte-vows-to-equip-army-to-fight-well
President Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to provide the military with more firearms for protection in the fight against illegal drugs and criminality.
During his visit to the Philippine Army headquarters on Tuesday October 4, President Duterte reiterated his resolve to end the country’s problem on illegal drugs but ensuring that no soldier or policemen would be killed in the process.
“In my time, you’d have everything you need to fight effectively. You have no problem with me. You have priority in government spending just do your duty because I know how hard it is to keep the peace of the country and to protect its integrity,” he said.
“It’s a very difficult job. It’s a very tall order that’s why I asked [National Defense Secretary] Delfin [Lorenzana], buy as many Barretts as possible. We’re doing well with the long-range thing and Kevlar,” he added.
The President even quipped that he would want to provide each soldier with two pistols just to make sure that they defeat their enemies.
The 120,000-strong military force will be equipped with Glock 30 .45 caliber pistol.
“Until the last pusher is out of the streets, this campaign will continue even if it will cost me my life, my honor, and even the presidency itself,” the President said.
Seeing the gravity of the drug problem, Duterte again called on the soldiers to finish the fight against illegal drugs until the end to save the next generation of Filipinos.
“I’m not asking for loyalty, I’m not even asking for nice words. But in case I go, before the problem is solved, or if the problem would outlast me, you have seen the monster that has four million, scattered all over the country, it will destroy the country forever,” he said. “If it would outlast me: kindly take care of your country. Finish this problem,” he added.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1141475668568/duterte-vows-to-equip-army-to-fight-well
Groups appeal for release of Lumad teachers
From the Sun Star-Manila (Oct 5): Groups appeal for release of Lumad teachers
TO COMMEMORATE Teacher's Day, various groups held protest in front of the Department of Justice (DOJ) Wednesday to call for the release of illegally detained Lumad teachers in Mindanao.
Representatives from Save our Schools (SOS), Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP), Salinlahi, and women's group Gabriela appealed to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II to review the cases of detained teachers in Mindanao Amelia Pond and Dominiciano Duya.
Pond, 64, a missionary teacher, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG) in Cebu on August 19 after attending an assembly of RMP. Her arrest was based on a warrant named after a certain Adelfa Toledo.
According to the groups, she is facing "trumped up charges" for murder and frustrated murder while Duya is also facing "fabricated charges" of illegal possession of firearms, multiple murder, double frustrated murder, robbery with double homicide and damage to properties.
Salinlahi Secretary General Kharlo Felipe Manano believes that these charges filed against the Lumad teachers undermine the rights of the indigenous people in the Southern Philippines.
"Their arrests are part of the systematic design by state forces to undermine the rights of the lumads, targeting as well those individuals and advocates who are supportive of the struggle," Manano said.
Based on a joint affidavit from certain Alberto Egagamo, Jaymar Gonzaga and Andro Bansag, Pond is a member of the New People's Army (NPA) involved in the killing of a barangay official in Compostella Valley in 2000.
The allegation was denied by Pond. Oliver Castor of RMP also claimed that Pond is not Adelfa Toledo, contrary to the claims of the CIDG.
The groups are seeking for a dialogue with Aguirre to discuss the cases of the two and appeal for their unconditional release.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2016/10/05/groups-appeal-release-lumad-teachers-501759
TO COMMEMORATE Teacher's Day, various groups held protest in front of the Department of Justice (DOJ) Wednesday to call for the release of illegally detained Lumad teachers in Mindanao.
Representatives from Save our Schools (SOS), Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP), Salinlahi, and women's group Gabriela appealed to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II to review the cases of detained teachers in Mindanao Amelia Pond and Dominiciano Duya.
Pond, 64, a missionary teacher, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG) in Cebu on August 19 after attending an assembly of RMP. Her arrest was based on a warrant named after a certain Adelfa Toledo.
According to the groups, she is facing "trumped up charges" for murder and frustrated murder while Duya is also facing "fabricated charges" of illegal possession of firearms, multiple murder, double frustrated murder, robbery with double homicide and damage to properties.
Salinlahi Secretary General Kharlo Felipe Manano believes that these charges filed against the Lumad teachers undermine the rights of the indigenous people in the Southern Philippines.
"Their arrests are part of the systematic design by state forces to undermine the rights of the lumads, targeting as well those individuals and advocates who are supportive of the struggle," Manano said.
Based on a joint affidavit from certain Alberto Egagamo, Jaymar Gonzaga and Andro Bansag, Pond is a member of the New People's Army (NPA) involved in the killing of a barangay official in Compostella Valley in 2000.
The allegation was denied by Pond. Oliver Castor of RMP also claimed that Pond is not Adelfa Toledo, contrary to the claims of the CIDG.
The groups are seeking for a dialogue with Aguirre to discuss the cases of the two and appeal for their unconditional release.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2016/10/05/groups-appeal-release-lumad-teachers-501759
Du30 set to meet Misuari in Davao
From Tempo (Oct 4): Du30 set to meet Misuari in Davao
President Duterte is set to meet Moro National Liberation Front founding chairman Nur Misuari in Davao soon to advance the peace process in Mindanao.
The President said Misuari, former governor of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, would be given safe passage when he comes out of hiding for their meeting.
“Nur Misuari is scheduled to get out of his camp, bigyan ko lang siya ng conduct pass. He will go to Davao, we will talk,” the President said during his remarks at the Masskara Festival in Bacolod City.
Duterte first announced his intention to meet the fugitive leader in his first weeks in office but such meeting did not push through. Misuari has long been wanted by authorities for his alleged involvement in the deadly Zamboanga City siege in 2013.
Last month, the President said he was willing to meet Misuari in any place, including Malaysia, the rebel leader’s preferred venue, to promote peace and prevent bloodshed in Mindanao.
Duterte said he told Misuari via phone that the police have been directed not to enforce a pending arrest warrant against him.
In refusing to arrest the MNLF leader, Duterte explained he wanted to avoid a situation in which Misuari might die while under government custody. “He’s the only known leader who has the influence and the structure. Nobody else,” he said.
http://tempo.com.ph/2016/10/04/du30-set-to-meet-misuari-in-davao/
The President said Misuari, former governor of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, would be given safe passage when he comes out of hiding for their meeting.
“Nur Misuari is scheduled to get out of his camp, bigyan ko lang siya ng conduct pass. He will go to Davao, we will talk,” the President said during his remarks at the Masskara Festival in Bacolod City.
Duterte first announced his intention to meet the fugitive leader in his first weeks in office but such meeting did not push through. Misuari has long been wanted by authorities for his alleged involvement in the deadly Zamboanga City siege in 2013.
Last month, the President said he was willing to meet Misuari in any place, including Malaysia, the rebel leader’s preferred venue, to promote peace and prevent bloodshed in Mindanao.
Duterte said he told Misuari via phone that the police have been directed not to enforce a pending arrest warrant against him.
In refusing to arrest the MNLF leader, Duterte explained he wanted to avoid a situation in which Misuari might die while under government custody. “He’s the only known leader who has the influence and the structure. Nobody else,” he said.
http://tempo.com.ph/2016/10/04/du30-set-to-meet-misuari-in-davao/
NDF Chair Jalandoni says amnesty proclamation possible with Duterte’s ‘supermajority’
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Oct 4): NDF Chair Jalandoni says amnesty proclamation possible with Duterte’s ‘supermajority’
“We think the concurrence of Congress will be gotten by President (Rodrigo) Duterte because the PDP-Laban now has an overwhelming majority in the House of Representatives,” Jalandoni told Davao Today in an interview Monday (7:00 pm PH time).
PDP-Laban or the Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas – Lakas ng Bayan is the President’s political party.
Jalandoni said they got reports that “from three members originally, they have gone up to more than 260, out of the 292.”
“In the Senate, due to various arrangements with the members of the Senate, we expect that the Senate will be able to give the majority for a declaration of amnesty by President Duterte,” he said.
Both negotiating panels of the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines are looking forward to the success of the next round of talks.
But while they have similar hopes to have positive developments for the peace negotiations, the two panels apparently differ in the priorities to be attained immediately.
Three days before the talks, Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza said the government panel hopes to come up with a ceasefire agreement. He also said the agreement will include a joint monitoring and a possible third party overseer.
During his State of the Nation Address on July 25, President Duterte announced a unilateral ceasefire with the NDF. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army National Operations Command declared a unilateral ceasefire on August 28.
But Dureza said the government “is eyeing a more permanent cessation of hostilities.”
“We need to craft mechanisms to monitor violations and resolve conflicts and issues arising from them,” Dureza said.
Dureza said this is only possible if the negotiating panels achieve an agreement on social economic reforms described as “the heart and soul” of the peace process.
Meanwhile, the NDF is drumbeating the release of political prisoners in “compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).”
“The amnesty and release of all political prisoners is an act of righting the violations of the CARHRIHL and the Hernandez political offense doctrine,” NDFP chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison said in a statement on Monday, October 3.
The Hernandez doctrine or the Amado V. Hernandez doctrine refers to the Supreme Court ruling in 1956, in the case People of the Philippines vs. Hernandez, saying that a person who commits a political offense could be charged with rebellion but not with common crimes such as murder, arson, robbery, etc.
Sison said the release of all political prisoners “would also serve as a very big incentive for a stable kind of ceasefire.”
Government panel head and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said there is already a draft amnesty proclamation that they will submit when the talks resume on this week in Oslo, Norway.
“The list has been narrowed down to just over 400 from a high of more than 500. As per agreement during the formal resumption of the peace talks in August, the proclamation will only cover NDF members currently detained,” Bello said.
Bello, in the same statement, said Duterte, who ordered the release of 22 detained peace consultants of the NDF “could declare a general amnesty once the peace talks are brought to a successful conclusion.” The declaration of general amnesty will also require the concurrence of Congress, which Jalandoni said Duterte could do.
The government believes that it will be able to strike a deal with the communist rebels waging the longest Maoist insurgency in Asia by August next year.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/ndf-chair-jalandoni-says-amnesty-proclamation-possible-with-dutertes-supermajority/
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines believe that under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, the Congress may pass the amnesty proclamation for more than 400 political prisoners. (davaotoday.com file photo by Paulo C. Rizal)
National Democratic Front chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni said the concurrence of Congress for the declaration of a general amnesty for political prisoners is possible under the Duterte administration.
PDP-Laban or the Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas – Lakas ng Bayan is the President’s political party.
Jalandoni said they got reports that “from three members originally, they have gone up to more than 260, out of the 292.”
“In the Senate, due to various arrangements with the members of the Senate, we expect that the Senate will be able to give the majority for a declaration of amnesty by President Duterte,” he said.
Both negotiating panels of the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines are looking forward to the success of the next round of talks.
But while they have similar hopes to have positive developments for the peace negotiations, the two panels apparently differ in the priorities to be attained immediately.
Three days before the talks, Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza said the government panel hopes to come up with a ceasefire agreement. He also said the agreement will include a joint monitoring and a possible third party overseer.
During his State of the Nation Address on July 25, President Duterte announced a unilateral ceasefire with the NDF. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army National Operations Command declared a unilateral ceasefire on August 28.
But Dureza said the government “is eyeing a more permanent cessation of hostilities.”
“We need to craft mechanisms to monitor violations and resolve conflicts and issues arising from them,” Dureza said.
Dureza said this is only possible if the negotiating panels achieve an agreement on social economic reforms described as “the heart and soul” of the peace process.
Meanwhile, the NDF is drumbeating the release of political prisoners in “compliance with the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).”
“The amnesty and release of all political prisoners is an act of righting the violations of the CARHRIHL and the Hernandez political offense doctrine,” NDFP chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison said in a statement on Monday, October 3.
The Hernandez doctrine or the Amado V. Hernandez doctrine refers to the Supreme Court ruling in 1956, in the case People of the Philippines vs. Hernandez, saying that a person who commits a political offense could be charged with rebellion but not with common crimes such as murder, arson, robbery, etc.
Sison said the release of all political prisoners “would also serve as a very big incentive for a stable kind of ceasefire.”
Government panel head and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said there is already a draft amnesty proclamation that they will submit when the talks resume on this week in Oslo, Norway.
“The list has been narrowed down to just over 400 from a high of more than 500. As per agreement during the formal resumption of the peace talks in August, the proclamation will only cover NDF members currently detained,” Bello said.
Bello, in the same statement, said Duterte, who ordered the release of 22 detained peace consultants of the NDF “could declare a general amnesty once the peace talks are brought to a successful conclusion.” The declaration of general amnesty will also require the concurrence of Congress, which Jalandoni said Duterte could do.
The government believes that it will be able to strike a deal with the communist rebels waging the longest Maoist insurgency in Asia by August next year.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/ndf-chair-jalandoni-says-amnesty-proclamation-possible-with-dutertes-supermajority/
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