From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): Metrobank Foundation honors 3 outstanding soldiers
Three soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines were presented on Monday as among the 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos in a ceremony held at the General Headquarters here.
Major Francis Señoron of the Philippine Army, Lt. Col. Danilo Facundo of the Philippine Marine Corps, and Lt. Col. Thomas Ryan Seguin of the Philippine Air Force were recognized "for rendering service above and beyond his/her call of duty.
"The recognition that they have received today manifests their dedication to their duties and exemplary service not only for the benefit of the AFP, but more importantly for the whole country," AFP Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr. said.
Señoron, an assistant division chief in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, OJ4, was especially cited for his expertise in bomb disposal and management that has saved countless soldiers and civilians.
His particular ingenuity allowed him to develop devices similar to the galvanometer and disruptor that are much cheaper and sustainable compared to their commercial equivalents, costing the AFP only PHP1,500 and PHP600 respectively, and have been adopted and mass produce by the Philippine Army for EOD units nationwide.
Meanwhile, Facundo, director of the Marines' Mobile Training and Exercise Unit, was cited for conceptualizing and facilitating the creation of the Sustained Multi-Agency Assistance in Resorts and Tourist Areas (SMART-MARINES) and the Joint Inter-Agency Task Uniy Brooke's Point, Bataraza, Rizal, and Balabac (JIATU-BBRB).
Both agencies have military, local government, and private sector components that strengthened the information sharing protocol across Palawan province, securing the tourism hub from terrorism, kidnapping, and insurgency.
Seguin, commander of the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron, directed aerial missions vital in securing Marawi City against terrorists in 2017.
He was cited for flying 134 out of the 156 total air to ground attack missions and ably dropped a total of 267 bombs, equivalent to 134,000 lbs of explosives, in the Marawi City campaign.
"These awardees redefine the true essence of public service, raise the bar of excellence, and serve as good examples to their colleagues and their respective organizations," Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña said.
The awardees join the ranks of 655 outstanding public servants recognized by the Metrobank Foundation and Rotary Club of Makati Metro since 1985, which includes Galvez who was among The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers in 2007.
Formal conferment ceremonies will be held on September 7 at the Metrobank Plaza in Makati City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045417
Monday, August 20, 2018
PAF fighter pilot deserves Metrobank’s ‘Outstanding Filipino’ award
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): PAF fighter pilot deserves Metrobank’s ‘Outstanding Filipino’ award
Philippine Air Force (PAF) fighter pilot Lt. Col. Thomas Ryan Seguin, one of the service's best and a Marawi Siege veteran, deserves to be among the three military personnel selected for this year's Metrobank Foundation's "The Outstanding Filipinos".
"(Seguin) is (really) deserving of the award. (Siya ay) magaling (good), very professional and hardworking," PAF spokesperson Major Aris Galang said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency Monday.
"Magaling na piloto, prepared lagi before lumipad. Mataas na level ng skills niya kaya very matured sa liparan (He is a good pilot. He is always prepared before flight. His level of skills are high and this makes him matured in terms of flight experience)," Galang said, quoting one of Seguin's fellow pilots at the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron when asked on the awardee's flying abilities.
Seguin is the commander of the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron, a component of the Floridablanca, Pampanga-based 5th Fighter Wing, which played a key role in the five-month long Marawi Siege that started May 23, 2017 and ended in October.
Seguin is a graduate of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1999 and is the Number 4 graduate of his batch.
Seguin was cited for flying 134 out of the 156 total air-to-ground attack missions in the conflict.
This amounts to 267 bombs dropped in total equivalent to 134,000 pounds of explosives.
Aside from flying the above-mentioned missions, Seguin also directed aerial missions vital in securing Marawi City against the Maute Group terrorists due to the limited number of pilots equipped for command.
"In the face of overwhelming odds, Lt. Col. Seguin masterfully exemplified composure under fire – flying134 out of the 156 total air-to-ground attack missions over Marawi’s main battle area. Given the limited number of pilots equipped for command, Lt. Col. Seguin had to steer these missions day and night, over bodies of water, despite the impending risks brought about by unfavorable winds and weather conditions, and limited air visibility due to nighttime darkness and ground fires," Seguin's Metrobank citation read.
Constant PAF support to ground units in Marawi is instrumental in the neutralization of numerous local and foreign terrorists, including leaders of the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group terrorists.
Seguin is also instrumental in the training of a new generation of PAF fighter pilots.
"His efforts to enhance and intensify pilot training resulted to a total of 25 combat and mission ready pilots in PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing. This benefited not only the careers of these pilots as they progressed in the qualification ladder, but also the operational readiness of PAF—having significantly augmented their current roster of professionally trained pilots responsive to air operations for national defense," the citation added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045362
Philippine Air Force (PAF) fighter pilot Lt. Col. Thomas Ryan Seguin, one of the service's best and a Marawi Siege veteran, deserves to be among the three military personnel selected for this year's Metrobank Foundation's "The Outstanding Filipinos".
"(Seguin) is (really) deserving of the award. (Siya ay) magaling (good), very professional and hardworking," PAF spokesperson Major Aris Galang said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency Monday.
"Magaling na piloto, prepared lagi before lumipad. Mataas na level ng skills niya kaya very matured sa liparan (He is a good pilot. He is always prepared before flight. His level of skills are high and this makes him matured in terms of flight experience)," Galang said, quoting one of Seguin's fellow pilots at the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron when asked on the awardee's flying abilities.
Seguin is the commander of the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron, a component of the Floridablanca, Pampanga-based 5th Fighter Wing, which played a key role in the five-month long Marawi Siege that started May 23, 2017 and ended in October.
Seguin is a graduate of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1999 and is the Number 4 graduate of his batch.
Seguin was cited for flying 134 out of the 156 total air-to-ground attack missions in the conflict.
This amounts to 267 bombs dropped in total equivalent to 134,000 pounds of explosives.
Aside from flying the above-mentioned missions, Seguin also directed aerial missions vital in securing Marawi City against the Maute Group terrorists due to the limited number of pilots equipped for command.
"In the face of overwhelming odds, Lt. Col. Seguin masterfully exemplified composure under fire – flying134 out of the 156 total air-to-ground attack missions over Marawi’s main battle area. Given the limited number of pilots equipped for command, Lt. Col. Seguin had to steer these missions day and night, over bodies of water, despite the impending risks brought about by unfavorable winds and weather conditions, and limited air visibility due to nighttime darkness and ground fires," Seguin's Metrobank citation read.
Constant PAF support to ground units in Marawi is instrumental in the neutralization of numerous local and foreign terrorists, including leaders of the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group terrorists.
Seguin is also instrumental in the training of a new generation of PAF fighter pilots.
"His efforts to enhance and intensify pilot training resulted to a total of 25 combat and mission ready pilots in PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing. This benefited not only the careers of these pilots as they progressed in the qualification ladder, but also the operational readiness of PAF—having significantly augmented their current roster of professionally trained pilots responsive to air operations for national defense," the citation added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045362
Coast Guard bares new ‘anti-terrorism fast boat’ in Palawan
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): Coast Guard bares new ‘anti-terrorism fast boat’ in Palawan
ANTI-TERRORISM FAST BOAT. Commodore Allen T. Toribio, district commander of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Palawan, checks out the rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) that was donated to the Philippine government by Japan to help in deterring the entry of extremist groups like the Abu Sayyaf on Monday (Aug. 20, 2018). The RHIB, which has a night operation capability, is fitted with state-of-the-art navigational equipment and mounted with a 30-caliber machine gun. (Photo by CARF)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan –The Philippine Coast Guard District (PCGD)-Palawan showed off Monday the recently acquired "anti-terrorism fast boat" that has the capability for night operation and with a mounted 30-caliber machine gun.
The rigid hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) is part of the recently acquired high-speed fast boats and 44m class multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) from Japan by the Philippine government.
Commodore Allen T. Toribio, district commander of the PCGD in the province, said the fast boat has a speed of 40-60 knots (46.1-69.1 miles per hour), and a 350-horsepower engine with a fuel capacity of 320 liters.
He said the boat can deliver “dependability, style, and confidence when taking control of the coastal water," adding that it can accommodate 12 anti-terrorist personnel of the PCGD who will ensure the safety of the province’s coastal zones against any threat from extremist groups like the Abu Sayyaf.
“We fitted it with a caliber 30 machine gun and we placed a personnel who can operate it. It can really act as anti-terrorism fast boat here in Palawan,” he said.
He said it was sent to the province two weeks ago by Coast Guard chief Admiral Elson Hermogino in fulfillment of President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge to help the province in preventing the perpetration of terroristic activities.
It was a share of the donation of the Japanese government, which was requested by President Duterte for the PCG to have additional maritime assets, he said.
“Ano yan donated ng Japan government. Sometime ago, nag-request si President [Duterte] ng fast boats and they gave freely. Pito yan ang alam ko, at ang isa ay nabigay dito sa Palawan (It was donated by the Japan government. Sometime ago, President Duterte requested for fast boats and they gave freely. As far as I know, there are seven units and one was given to Palawan),” he said.
The anti-terrorism fast boats, he explained, has an apparatus to avoid running aground in shallow areas and has a propeller guard to get around coral heads.
He said the RHIB will be supported by some of the 44-meter MRRV class patrol vessels whose design and built were financed with the Japanese government’s support.
One of these is 4407 BRP “Sindangan,” which is already helping secure Palawan’s littoral areas.
“We will have floating assets dedicated to the east and west of Palawan, and we have so many aluminum boats, and this new asset that we are launching – the fast boat – this is for interdiction in our patrol,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045404
Interdiction, he explained, as “it is fast, complete with navigational equipment and can operate at night with the 30 caliber firepower machine gun aside from the M16 rifles of the anti-terrorist personnel.”
Toribio urged the public to help the Coast Guard, the military, the police, and the provincial government in ensuring the province’s safety by being alert and vigilant, especially in seaside communities.
The launching of the anti-terrorism fast boat came a barely a week after the Abu Sayyaf threat to conduct kidnappings in Palawan was disclosed by the Palawan Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) on Aug. 11.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045404
ANTI-TERRORISM FAST BOAT. Commodore Allen T. Toribio, district commander of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Palawan, checks out the rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) that was donated to the Philippine government by Japan to help in deterring the entry of extremist groups like the Abu Sayyaf on Monday (Aug. 20, 2018). The RHIB, which has a night operation capability, is fitted with state-of-the-art navigational equipment and mounted with a 30-caliber machine gun. (Photo by CARF)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan –The Philippine Coast Guard District (PCGD)-Palawan showed off Monday the recently acquired "anti-terrorism fast boat" that has the capability for night operation and with a mounted 30-caliber machine gun.
The rigid hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) is part of the recently acquired high-speed fast boats and 44m class multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) from Japan by the Philippine government.
Commodore Allen T. Toribio, district commander of the PCGD in the province, said the fast boat has a speed of 40-60 knots (46.1-69.1 miles per hour), and a 350-horsepower engine with a fuel capacity of 320 liters.
He said the boat can deliver “dependability, style, and confidence when taking control of the coastal water," adding that it can accommodate 12 anti-terrorist personnel of the PCGD who will ensure the safety of the province’s coastal zones against any threat from extremist groups like the Abu Sayyaf.
“We fitted it with a caliber 30 machine gun and we placed a personnel who can operate it. It can really act as anti-terrorism fast boat here in Palawan,” he said.
He said it was sent to the province two weeks ago by Coast Guard chief Admiral Elson Hermogino in fulfillment of President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge to help the province in preventing the perpetration of terroristic activities.
It was a share of the donation of the Japanese government, which was requested by President Duterte for the PCG to have additional maritime assets, he said.
“Ano yan donated ng Japan government. Sometime ago, nag-request si President [Duterte] ng fast boats and they gave freely. Pito yan ang alam ko, at ang isa ay nabigay dito sa Palawan (It was donated by the Japan government. Sometime ago, President Duterte requested for fast boats and they gave freely. As far as I know, there are seven units and one was given to Palawan),” he said.
The anti-terrorism fast boats, he explained, has an apparatus to avoid running aground in shallow areas and has a propeller guard to get around coral heads.
He said the RHIB will be supported by some of the 44-meter MRRV class patrol vessels whose design and built were financed with the Japanese government’s support.
One of these is 4407 BRP “Sindangan,” which is already helping secure Palawan’s littoral areas.
“We will have floating assets dedicated to the east and west of Palawan, and we have so many aluminum boats, and this new asset that we are launching – the fast boat – this is for interdiction in our patrol,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045404
Interdiction, he explained, as “it is fast, complete with navigational equipment and can operate at night with the 30 caliber firepower machine gun aside from the M16 rifles of the anti-terrorist personnel.”
Toribio urged the public to help the Coast Guard, the military, the police, and the provincial government in ensuring the province’s safety by being alert and vigilant, especially in seaside communities.
The launching of the anti-terrorism fast boat came a barely a week after the Abu Sayyaf threat to conduct kidnappings in Palawan was disclosed by the Palawan Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) on Aug. 11.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045404
Review camp defense plan vs NPA attacks, Eastern Visayas cops told
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): Review camp defense plan vs NPA attacks, Eastern Visayas cops told
The Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office here directed field commanders to review their camp defense plan to ensure that no police station in Eastern Visayas will be attacked by the New People’s Army (NPA).
PNP Region 8 Director, Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos, asked provincial directors and chiefs of police to intensify their intelligence monitoring to prevent any attack.
“I instructed our provincial directors that there should be no repeat of attacks of police stations. The order is to look at camp defense plans and conduct regular security inspections,” Carlos said in his first briefing in the region Monday.
Carlos assumed the post as PNP regional chief on Aug. 10, replacing Chief Supt. Marielle Magaway who was relieved from his post, hours after some 50 armed rebels raided the police station of Lapinig, Northern Samar.
The official has been going around the region to check the police stations’ readiness for possible attacks.
“There are two strategies to prevent raids -- improve our systems and talk with the NPAs. I am reaching out to them that if they have issues, we can talk,” he added.
On Aug. 10, about 50 communist rebels launched a pre-dawn attack at the police station of Lapinig, Northern Samar. The attack injured two policemen while the rebels carted several firearms, laptops and communication devices.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045410
The Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office here directed field commanders to review their camp defense plan to ensure that no police station in Eastern Visayas will be attacked by the New People’s Army (NPA).
PNP Region 8 Director, Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos, asked provincial directors and chiefs of police to intensify their intelligence monitoring to prevent any attack.
“I instructed our provincial directors that there should be no repeat of attacks of police stations. The order is to look at camp defense plans and conduct regular security inspections,” Carlos said in his first briefing in the region Monday.
Carlos assumed the post as PNP regional chief on Aug. 10, replacing Chief Supt. Marielle Magaway who was relieved from his post, hours after some 50 armed rebels raided the police station of Lapinig, Northern Samar.
The official has been going around the region to check the police stations’ readiness for possible attacks.
“There are two strategies to prevent raids -- improve our systems and talk with the NPAs. I am reaching out to them that if they have issues, we can talk,” he added.
On Aug. 10, about 50 communist rebels launched a pre-dawn attack at the police station of Lapinig, Northern Samar. The attack injured two policemen while the rebels carted several firearms, laptops and communication devices.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045410
Cops pursue leads in failed Koronadal bomb attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): Cops pursue leads in failed Koronadal bomb attack
Police are looking into a number of leads in the failed bomb attack at a department store along the main commercial area of Koronadal City on Saturday evening.
Supt. Marvin Duadua, spokesperson of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office, said Monday investigators are currently studying the possible motives and identities of the suspects behind the incident.
“We already have some leads but we’re also open to other possible angles that we can exploit,” Duadua said. He declined to provide details, however, to preempt ongoing investigation.
An improvised explosive device (IED) malfunctioned and set off prematurely at the baggage counter of Unitop General Merchandise-Koronadal branch along Osmena Street at around 8:25 p.m. Saturday.
The explosive, which was placed inside a backpack and sling bag, was reportedly left by a customer before the store closed at 8 p.m.
Responding personnel from the city police station and the South Cotabato police explosive ordnance disposal unit later detonated the IED.
As to the "signature" of the explosive, Duadua said they were still waiting for the report from the assigned composite investigation team.
The official said investigators are coordinating with the store's personnel, especially the duty baggage attendant and security guard during the incident, to establish the identity of the person who left the backpack.
He said they have also requested copies of the closed-circuit television or CCTV camera footages of Unitop and nearby establishments.
Duadua said they are going through the required processes in obtaining the footages to avoid possible problems once they would be presented to the court later as evidence.
Aside from these, he said are also looking into the possible lapses of the establishment, especially those assigned at the baggage section.
"It should have been detected earlier through the mandatory inspection of the bag. But that did not happen so we really need to engage and re-educate the store's management and personnel about that," he said.
The failed bomb attack happened as the city concluded on Saturday night the hosting of the week-long 2nd "Pyesta Kolon Datal: Koronadal International Folklore Festival."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045365
Police are looking into a number of leads in the failed bomb attack at a department store along the main commercial area of Koronadal City on Saturday evening.
Supt. Marvin Duadua, spokesperson of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office, said Monday investigators are currently studying the possible motives and identities of the suspects behind the incident.
“We already have some leads but we’re also open to other possible angles that we can exploit,” Duadua said. He declined to provide details, however, to preempt ongoing investigation.
An improvised explosive device (IED) malfunctioned and set off prematurely at the baggage counter of Unitop General Merchandise-Koronadal branch along Osmena Street at around 8:25 p.m. Saturday.
The explosive, which was placed inside a backpack and sling bag, was reportedly left by a customer before the store closed at 8 p.m.
Responding personnel from the city police station and the South Cotabato police explosive ordnance disposal unit later detonated the IED.
As to the "signature" of the explosive, Duadua said they were still waiting for the report from the assigned composite investigation team.
The official said investigators are coordinating with the store's personnel, especially the duty baggage attendant and security guard during the incident, to establish the identity of the person who left the backpack.
He said they have also requested copies of the closed-circuit television or CCTV camera footages of Unitop and nearby establishments.
Duadua said they are going through the required processes in obtaining the footages to avoid possible problems once they would be presented to the court later as evidence.
Aside from these, he said are also looking into the possible lapses of the establishment, especially those assigned at the baggage section.
"It should have been detected earlier through the mandatory inspection of the bag. But that did not happen so we really need to engage and re-educate the store's management and personnel about that," he said.
The failed bomb attack happened as the city concluded on Saturday night the hosting of the week-long 2nd "Pyesta Kolon Datal: Koronadal International Folklore Festival."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045365
3 NPAs killed in Sarangani clashes
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): 3 NPAs killed in Sarangani clashes
Three suspected New People's Army (NPA) members were killed in clashes with government troops on Sunday in a hinterland village in Maasim town, Sarangani Province.
Acting Maasim Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan said Monday the two encounters were part of the continuing operations against the rebels of the military under the Bravo Company of the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB).
Citing a report from the 27IB and the Maasim municipal police station, Cutan said at least two encounters happened on Sunday in Sitio Hitam-el along the boundary of Barangays Lumasal and Panag.
He said the troops briefly clashed with the rebels at around 9 a.m. and resumed at around 1:30 p.m.
The mayor said three NPA members were confirmed killed in the encounters based on the bodies recovered by 27IB elements at the encounter site.
He said the troops, which did not suffer any casualty, recovered unspecified high-powered firearms from the fatalities.
"We're still waiting for the arrival of the remains of the slain rebels so we can properly identify them and determine where they come from," the mayor said in a radio interview.
As of Monday morning, Cutan said the situation at the clash site has normalized but 27IB troopers are still conducting clearing operations towards portions of Kiamba town.
The Maasim police station has been directed to help monitor and secure the affected communities, he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045367
Three suspected New People's Army (NPA) members were killed in clashes with government troops on Sunday in a hinterland village in Maasim town, Sarangani Province.
Acting Maasim Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan said Monday the two encounters were part of the continuing operations against the rebels of the military under the Bravo Company of the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB).
Citing a report from the 27IB and the Maasim municipal police station, Cutan said at least two encounters happened on Sunday in Sitio Hitam-el along the boundary of Barangays Lumasal and Panag.
He said the troops briefly clashed with the rebels at around 9 a.m. and resumed at around 1:30 p.m.
The mayor said three NPA members were confirmed killed in the encounters based on the bodies recovered by 27IB elements at the encounter site.
He said the troops, which did not suffer any casualty, recovered unspecified high-powered firearms from the fatalities.
"We're still waiting for the arrival of the remains of the slain rebels so we can properly identify them and determine where they come from," the mayor said in a radio interview.
As of Monday morning, Cutan said the situation at the clash site has normalized but 27IB troopers are still conducting clearing operations towards portions of Kiamba town.
The Maasim police station has been directed to help monitor and secure the affected communities, he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045367
291 Army recruits undergo training in Zamboanga del Sur
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 20): 291 Army recruits undergo training in Zamboanga del Sur
Brig. Gen. Jacinto Bareng, Army's 1st Infantry Assistant Division commander, addresses the 291 Army aspirants who took oath as military recruits on Monday in Kuta Sang-an, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The recruits will undergo a 14-week rigid training starting Monday at the Division Training School. (Photo courtesy: Army's 1st Infantry Division Public Information Office)
Two-hundred ninety-one aspirant-soldiers are undergoing a 14-week training starting Monday at the Philippine Army's First Infantry Division Training School in Kuta Sang-an, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
The recruits consisted of 287 new Candidate Soldiers and four Privates, who took oath as military recruits on Monday in Kuta Sang-an, with Brig. Gen. Jacinto Bareng, 1st Infantry Assistant Division commander, as the guest speaker.
Maj. Ronald Suscano, Army’s 1st Infantry Division information officer, said the new recruits will comprise the Candidate Soldier Course Classes 567-18 and 568-18 of the command.
Suscano said that 264 of the 291 Army aspirants are males and the remaining 27 are females, including a Maranao from Butig, Lanao del Sur.
He said the chosen candidates are considered to be the most competent among over 1,000 applicants. They passed the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT), physical fitness test (PFT), and physical and medical examination.
The recruits will undergo rigid training in the next 14 weeks at the Division Training School (DTS)on “Transformation”, “Basic Squad Training”, and “Application of Knowledge,” all aimed at molding them to become well-disciplined, competent, and capable soldiers to fill in the ranks of the Army.
“The candidate soldiers’ training is indeed tedious as they will initially experience an abrupt change from being a civilian to adapting the military lifestyle,” Suscano quoted Bareng to have told the new recruits.
“I am reminding the personnel of DTS to instill discipline and respect to the recruits, share all their knowledge, skills, and professionalism and to guarantee that they will develop a mindset of survival in the profession of arms,” Bareng added.
He encouraged the new Army recruits to do their best and efforts to survive the four months rigid training as it will also test their mental, physical and spiritual capabilities if they are really fit to be a soldier.
The recruitment is an annual program of the Philippine Army to fill-up the vacancies left by retirees and those separated from the military service.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045438
Two-hundred ninety-one aspirant-soldiers are undergoing a 14-week training starting Monday at the Philippine Army's First Infantry Division Training School in Kuta Sang-an, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.
The recruits consisted of 287 new Candidate Soldiers and four Privates, who took oath as military recruits on Monday in Kuta Sang-an, with Brig. Gen. Jacinto Bareng, 1st Infantry Assistant Division commander, as the guest speaker.
Maj. Ronald Suscano, Army’s 1st Infantry Division information officer, said the new recruits will comprise the Candidate Soldier Course Classes 567-18 and 568-18 of the command.
Suscano said that 264 of the 291 Army aspirants are males and the remaining 27 are females, including a Maranao from Butig, Lanao del Sur.
He said the chosen candidates are considered to be the most competent among over 1,000 applicants. They passed the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT), physical fitness test (PFT), and physical and medical examination.
The recruits will undergo rigid training in the next 14 weeks at the Division Training School (DTS)on “Transformation”, “Basic Squad Training”, and “Application of Knowledge,” all aimed at molding them to become well-disciplined, competent, and capable soldiers to fill in the ranks of the Army.
“The candidate soldiers’ training is indeed tedious as they will initially experience an abrupt change from being a civilian to adapting the military lifestyle,” Suscano quoted Bareng to have told the new recruits.
“I am reminding the personnel of DTS to instill discipline and respect to the recruits, share all their knowledge, skills, and professionalism and to guarantee that they will develop a mindset of survival in the profession of arms,” Bareng added.
He encouraged the new Army recruits to do their best and efforts to survive the four months rigid training as it will also test their mental, physical and spiritual capabilities if they are really fit to be a soldier.
The recruitment is an annual program of the Philippine Army to fill-up the vacancies left by retirees and those separated from the military service.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1045438
Sunday, August 19, 2018
Most of rebels killed in Antique police raid were ranking NPA officials – Bulalacao
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 18): Most of rebels killed in Antique police raid were ranking NPA officials – Bulalacao
Most of the communist rebels who were killed in a police raid in Antique were ranking officials of the local New People’s Army (NPA), police officials disclosed Saturday as they denied the allegations that there was no firefight that occurred.
Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, director of the Western Visayas regional police, said they have been anticipating denial and twisting of stories about the operation in San Jose town of Antique since the operation had caused a leadership vacuum in the local communist rebel hierarchy.
Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao (PNP / MANILA BULLETIN)
“We reiterate that it was a legitimate police operation. Our men have warrants of arrest. The overwhelming pieces of evidence recovered speak for itself,” Bulalacao said.
“To claim therefore that they did not fire upon arresting military and PNP personnel is obviously absurd. We already anticipate these derogatory claims considering that those who perished in the shootout are mostly ranking officials of the Communist party of the Philippines- NPA in Western Visayas,” he added.
On Wednesday, joint police and military operatives killed seven suspected communist rebels and seized guns, grenades, gadgets, bank books and ATM cards along with alleged extortion letters with the letterhead of local NPA leadership.
Six of those who were killed were identified as Karen Ceralvo, Felix Salditos, Jason Sanchez, Rene Yap, Liezl Bandiola and Jason Talibo who is one of the two subjects of the arrest warrant. Joven Ceralvo, the other subject of the arrest warrant, was able to flee.
Bulalacao said the information they received was that most of those who died are holding key positions in NPA leadership in Western Visayas. In fact, he said some of those slain are not from Antique but from various areas in the region like Negros Occidental and Iloilo.
In a statement, the local leadership of the National Democratic Front condemned the operation and branded the death of the seven suspected communist rebels as a massacre.
The NDF-Panay admitted that the seven are members of the CPP-NDF and were assigned as education and propaganda staff but stressed that they were not armed and therefore not combatants.
According to the statement, some of those slain are veteran members of the CPP-NDF.
Bulalacao however stressed the claim of the NDF that there was no firefight was preposterous, saying they have enough proof that the slain rebels indeed engaged the raiding policemen and soldiers.
It was recalled that the operation stemmed from the serving of arrest warrant against two suspected communist rebels, one of them was killed while the other one survived and was able to flee.
Bulalacao also hit back at NDF for claiming that the slain rebels are noncombatants, saying it is the NPA which has the history of killing noncombatant government forces who were out for medical mission.
“We all know how brutal NPA guerillas are in killing government personnel even those involved in search and rescue operations, medical and SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operation) personnel who are noncombatants are being ambushed,” Bulalacao said .
“They are most welcome to file complaints as we are in a democratic country but with the overwhelming pieces of evidence we have at hand they know for sure they will fail. It is therefore expected that they will turn to black propaganda as usual,” he added.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/08/18/most-of-rebels-killed-in-antique-police-raid-were-ranking-npa-officials-bulalacao/
Most of the communist rebels who were killed in a police raid in Antique were ranking officials of the local New People’s Army (NPA), police officials disclosed Saturday as they denied the allegations that there was no firefight that occurred.
Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, director of the Western Visayas regional police, said they have been anticipating denial and twisting of stories about the operation in San Jose town of Antique since the operation had caused a leadership vacuum in the local communist rebel hierarchy.
Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao (PNP / MANILA BULLETIN)
“We reiterate that it was a legitimate police operation. Our men have warrants of arrest. The overwhelming pieces of evidence recovered speak for itself,” Bulalacao said.
“To claim therefore that they did not fire upon arresting military and PNP personnel is obviously absurd. We already anticipate these derogatory claims considering that those who perished in the shootout are mostly ranking officials of the Communist party of the Philippines- NPA in Western Visayas,” he added.
On Wednesday, joint police and military operatives killed seven suspected communist rebels and seized guns, grenades, gadgets, bank books and ATM cards along with alleged extortion letters with the letterhead of local NPA leadership.
Six of those who were killed were identified as Karen Ceralvo, Felix Salditos, Jason Sanchez, Rene Yap, Liezl Bandiola and Jason Talibo who is one of the two subjects of the arrest warrant. Joven Ceralvo, the other subject of the arrest warrant, was able to flee.
Bulalacao said the information they received was that most of those who died are holding key positions in NPA leadership in Western Visayas. In fact, he said some of those slain are not from Antique but from various areas in the region like Negros Occidental and Iloilo.
In a statement, the local leadership of the National Democratic Front condemned the operation and branded the death of the seven suspected communist rebels as a massacre.
The NDF-Panay admitted that the seven are members of the CPP-NDF and were assigned as education and propaganda staff but stressed that they were not armed and therefore not combatants.
According to the statement, some of those slain are veteran members of the CPP-NDF.
Bulalacao however stressed the claim of the NDF that there was no firefight was preposterous, saying they have enough proof that the slain rebels indeed engaged the raiding policemen and soldiers.
It was recalled that the operation stemmed from the serving of arrest warrant against two suspected communist rebels, one of them was killed while the other one survived and was able to flee.
Bulalacao also hit back at NDF for claiming that the slain rebels are noncombatants, saying it is the NPA which has the history of killing noncombatant government forces who were out for medical mission.
“We all know how brutal NPA guerillas are in killing government personnel even those involved in search and rescue operations, medical and SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operation) personnel who are noncombatants are being ambushed,” Bulalacao said .
“They are most welcome to file complaints as we are in a democratic country but with the overwhelming pieces of evidence we have at hand they know for sure they will fail. It is therefore expected that they will turn to black propaganda as usual,” he added.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/08/18/most-of-rebels-killed-in-antique-police-raid-were-ranking-npa-officials-bulalacao/
Philippines caught in US-Russia tug-of-war over submarines
From the Philippine Star (Aug 19): Philippines caught in US-Russia tug-of-war over submarines
The Philippines appears to be caught between the United States and Russia over the plan of the Duterte administration to purchase big-ticket military equipment, including a submarine, from Moscow.
On their respective social media accounts, both the US and Russian embassies in Manila have reaffirmed their partnership and strong commitment to work with the Philippines.
“As we celebrate the special partnership between our two countries, I would like to say maraming salamat to all for your warm friendship and generosity,” said US Ambassador Sung Kim in a video message released on Friday.
“Already a year and a half into my tenure, I’m still excited and grateful serving as the US ambassador in this amazing country. This is a truly great relationship for both countries. Friends, partners, allies forever,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Russian embassy commented on the supposed interference of an unidentified party on the strengthening partnership of Russia and the Philippines.
“Hope nobody will interfere,” the embassy tweeted as reaction to The STAR article on a Philippine Navy ship’s planned port call in Moscow.
In another tweet, the Russian embassy denounced what it dubbed as “unfair competition and blackmailing” directed at the Philippines over discussions of military cooperation between the two countries.
“Let’s be honest: recent speculations to disrupt Russia-Philippine military and technical cooperation is just unfair competition and blackmailing prior to our negotiations at the @ForumArmy2018 in Russia,” it said.
The embassy is referring to next week’s International Military-Technical Forum in Moscow, which it appears would be attended by a Philippine delegation.
While no party was identified in the tweet, the message seems to be directed at the US government, which earlier warned the Philippines of implications should it proceed with the purchase of military equipment from Russia.
While in Manila this week, US Defense Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs Randall Schriver told reporters that a deal between Manila and Moscow would be unhealthy for the US-Philippine relationship.
“I think they should think very carefully about that,” he said. “If they would have (to) proceed with procurement major Russian equipment, I don’t think that’s a helpful thing to do in the alliance.”
President Duterte and the Russian government both rebuked Schriver for his statement.
“You state your case why you are against my country buying Russian submarines… give me the reason why and make it public. You want us to remain backward?” Duterte told the US in a speech on Friday. “We are the only ones who have none, yet you don’t give us any (submarine).”
Moscow, meanwhile, said Schriver should refrain from making such comments.
“We cannot recall when Mr. Randall Schriver was hired as advisor to the government of the Philippines. Nevertheless the defense cooperation between Russia and the Philippines is a matter of bilateral relations and does not involve any third country in any way,” the Russian government said in a statement released by its embassy.
“We believe it meets strategic interests of the Philippine nation and will definitely contribute to the regional peace and stability,” it said.
Defense spokesman Arsenio Andolong said the Philippine government is acquiring military equipment from any country where it will be beneficial and advantageous to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“While our acquisition of submarines (from Russia) for the Philippines is still under study and nothing is final at this point, we emphasize that the defense department will procure equipment that is most advantageous for the AFP through the AFP Modernization Program,” he said.
Ties remain strong
On the other hand, a top defense blogger said the relations between the US and the Philippines will remain strong despite plans to buy military hardware from a third party.
Max Defense pointed out the Americans have no choice but to accept the fact that they’re not helping much in modernizing the Philippine military as their Congress are known for blocking military sales even to allies.
“Once the Russia submarines are already with the Philippines, the US has no choice to accept the reality,” Max Defense said.
While the decision to buy Russian submarines may not be strong reason to degrade the 1951 Phl-US Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) as well as other defense agreements, the US has the option to impose the sanctions such as Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) against the Philippines.
CAATSA is a State Department policy that can be imposed on US companies to limit, if not totally cancel its dealings to a country or those that are investing and contributing to the economy of a particular country.
Those who opposed the procurement of submarines from Russia pointed out that operating systems of the eastern military bloc are not compatible with the Philippine military, a NATO-bloc user.
An official said if the Philippine government proceeds to buy Kilo-Class submarines from Russia, it also needs to spend billions to reconfigure the operating systems of the Philippine Navy (PN), as well as that of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).
“This will have a direct impact in our ongoing efforts to establish an efficient interconnectivity systems between all operating units of the three major services. A Kilo-Class submarine cannot communicate with its surface counterparts in the Navy because of systems incompatibility,” one officer stressed.
Those in favor said the Navy can always install an independent communication systems on the two submarines, pointing out that no other countries in the Western bloc can match the soft loan being offered by Russia to bankroll the defense submarine acquisition project.
“Interconnectivity? That can be fixed. What is important here is we must have that submarine first, rather than getting none. Anyway, our military, for now, is not yet fully integrated in terms of real time interconnectivity,” another official said.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2018/08/19/1843911/philippines-caught-us-russia-tug-war-over-submarines
The Philippines appears to be caught between the United States and Russia over the plan of the Duterte administration to purchase big-ticket military equipment, including a submarine, from Moscow.
On their respective social media accounts, both the US and Russian embassies in Manila have reaffirmed their partnership and strong commitment to work with the Philippines.
“As we celebrate the special partnership between our two countries, I would like to say maraming salamat to all for your warm friendship and generosity,” said US Ambassador Sung Kim in a video message released on Friday.
“Already a year and a half into my tenure, I’m still excited and grateful serving as the US ambassador in this amazing country. This is a truly great relationship for both countries. Friends, partners, allies forever,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Russian embassy commented on the supposed interference of an unidentified party on the strengthening partnership of Russia and the Philippines.
“Hope nobody will interfere,” the embassy tweeted as reaction to The STAR article on a Philippine Navy ship’s planned port call in Moscow.
In another tweet, the Russian embassy denounced what it dubbed as “unfair competition and blackmailing” directed at the Philippines over discussions of military cooperation between the two countries.
“Let’s be honest: recent speculations to disrupt Russia-Philippine military and technical cooperation is just unfair competition and blackmailing prior to our negotiations at the @ForumArmy2018 in Russia,” it said.
The embassy is referring to next week’s International Military-Technical Forum in Moscow, which it appears would be attended by a Philippine delegation.
While no party was identified in the tweet, the message seems to be directed at the US government, which earlier warned the Philippines of implications should it proceed with the purchase of military equipment from Russia.
While in Manila this week, US Defense Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs Randall Schriver told reporters that a deal between Manila and Moscow would be unhealthy for the US-Philippine relationship.
“I think they should think very carefully about that,” he said. “If they would have (to) proceed with procurement major Russian equipment, I don’t think that’s a helpful thing to do in the alliance.”
President Duterte and the Russian government both rebuked Schriver for his statement.
“You state your case why you are against my country buying Russian submarines… give me the reason why and make it public. You want us to remain backward?” Duterte told the US in a speech on Friday. “We are the only ones who have none, yet you don’t give us any (submarine).”
Moscow, meanwhile, said Schriver should refrain from making such comments.
“We cannot recall when Mr. Randall Schriver was hired as advisor to the government of the Philippines. Nevertheless the defense cooperation between Russia and the Philippines is a matter of bilateral relations and does not involve any third country in any way,” the Russian government said in a statement released by its embassy.
“We believe it meets strategic interests of the Philippine nation and will definitely contribute to the regional peace and stability,” it said.
Defense spokesman Arsenio Andolong said the Philippine government is acquiring military equipment from any country where it will be beneficial and advantageous to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“While our acquisition of submarines (from Russia) for the Philippines is still under study and nothing is final at this point, we emphasize that the defense department will procure equipment that is most advantageous for the AFP through the AFP Modernization Program,” he said.
Ties remain strong
On the other hand, a top defense blogger said the relations between the US and the Philippines will remain strong despite plans to buy military hardware from a third party.
Max Defense pointed out the Americans have no choice but to accept the fact that they’re not helping much in modernizing the Philippine military as their Congress are known for blocking military sales even to allies.
“Once the Russia submarines are already with the Philippines, the US has no choice to accept the reality,” Max Defense said.
While the decision to buy Russian submarines may not be strong reason to degrade the 1951 Phl-US Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) as well as other defense agreements, the US has the option to impose the sanctions such as Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) against the Philippines.
CAATSA is a State Department policy that can be imposed on US companies to limit, if not totally cancel its dealings to a country or those that are investing and contributing to the economy of a particular country.
Those who opposed the procurement of submarines from Russia pointed out that operating systems of the eastern military bloc are not compatible with the Philippine military, a NATO-bloc user.
An official said if the Philippine government proceeds to buy Kilo-Class submarines from Russia, it also needs to spend billions to reconfigure the operating systems of the Philippine Navy (PN), as well as that of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).
“This will have a direct impact in our ongoing efforts to establish an efficient interconnectivity systems between all operating units of the three major services. A Kilo-Class submarine cannot communicate with its surface counterparts in the Navy because of systems incompatibility,” one officer stressed.
Those in favor said the Navy can always install an independent communication systems on the two submarines, pointing out that no other countries in the Western bloc can match the soft loan being offered by Russia to bankroll the defense submarine acquisition project.
“Interconnectivity? That can be fixed. What is important here is we must have that submarine first, rather than getting none. Anyway, our military, for now, is not yet fully integrated in terms of real time interconnectivity,” another official said.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2018/08/19/1843911/philippines-caught-us-russia-tug-war-over-submarines
The Blessing Ceremony of a newly maintained and painted Nomad aircraft of the Philippine Air Force
From Update Philippines (Aug 18): The Blessing Ceremony of a newly maintained and painted Nomad aircraft of the Philippine Air Force
The 220th Airlift Wing conducted a blessing ceremony of the Nomad N-22C aircraft with tail number 87 last August 03, 2018 at the 220th AW Hangar with the Wing Commander BRIGADIER GENERAL STEPHEN P PARREÑO AFP as host.
The Nomad aircraft play a major role in the conduct of light lift operations for years now such as maritime patrol, relief operations, medical evacuation specifically on remote areas, immediate search and reconnaissance, aerial survey mapping, troops relieving, tactical support, maintenance, training and VIP flights.
The said aircraft underwent a Check “D” Inspection which is a thorough and systematic maintenance inspection after 1,800 aircraft time in accordance with the AeroSpace Technologies of Australia (ASTA) published inspection requirements manual (IRM) Nomad series N22 & N24 Pub # 12.39-1.
The 223rd Airlift Squadron spearheaded the conduct of the inspection. Modifications and alterations were made to improve the appearance, services, and performance of the aging aircraft, like painting the aircraft using an AKZO NOBEL paint (the same paint used in the 212i aircraft), enhancing the VIP aircraft configurations such as the installation of VIP table, installation of galley for hot and cold beverages, installation of additional receptacle in the cabin compartment for external power, and the reactivation of fan motors which were not functional for more than 20 years.
The ceremony was conducted to celebrate another milestone achievement of the Airlifters who selflessly devoted their time, effort and skill to successfully complete the said inspection. The aircraft was declared Full Mission Capable (FMC) last July 30, 2018, after completing 50 hours of endurance flight.
The 220th Airlift Wing conducted a blessing ceremony of the Nomad N-22C aircraft with tail number 87 last August 03, 2018 at the 220th AW Hangar with the Wing Commander BRIGADIER GENERAL STEPHEN P PARREÑO AFP as host.
The Nomad aircraft play a major role in the conduct of light lift operations for years now such as maritime patrol, relief operations, medical evacuation specifically on remote areas, immediate search and reconnaissance, aerial survey mapping, troops relieving, tactical support, maintenance, training and VIP flights.
The said aircraft underwent a Check “D” Inspection which is a thorough and systematic maintenance inspection after 1,800 aircraft time in accordance with the AeroSpace Technologies of Australia (ASTA) published inspection requirements manual (IRM) Nomad series N22 & N24 Pub # 12.39-1.
The 223rd Airlift Squadron spearheaded the conduct of the inspection. Modifications and alterations were made to improve the appearance, services, and performance of the aging aircraft, like painting the aircraft using an AKZO NOBEL paint (the same paint used in the 212i aircraft), enhancing the VIP aircraft configurations such as the installation of VIP table, installation of galley for hot and cold beverages, installation of additional receptacle in the cabin compartment for external power, and the reactivation of fan motors which were not functional for more than 20 years.
The ceremony was conducted to celebrate another milestone achievement of the Airlifters who selflessly devoted their time, effort and skill to successfully complete the said inspection. The aircraft was declared Full Mission Capable (FMC) last July 30, 2018, after completing 50 hours of endurance flight.
PH troops compete at International Army Games in Belarus
From Update Philippines (Aug 16): PH troops compete at International Army Games in Belarus
MINSK, Belarus – Members of the Philippine Army recently competed at the International Army Games, a multi-event military competition held simultaneously in six countries from July 28 to August 11.
Eighteen countries battled it out in the event held in Russia, Belarus, China, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Iran. The Philippine contingent bagged 12th place in the “Sniper Frontier” category when they competed here.
“It’s a very good experience on the part of our shooting team. They have been competing in different shooting events in Asia and (won) gold medals. The competition [here in] Belarus was a learning experience [because] bago ang mga ginagamit na baril (new firearms were used),” said Major Dranreb Lansang of the Philippine Army Education and Training Branch in a text message.
He added that it was an “eye-opener” to mingle with soldiers from different countries with whom the Philippines does not have joint drills.
“Most of the participants come from special forces ng bawat (of every) country. And we can say [that] we Filipinos can compete with them.”
Aside from the Philippine team, other countries that competed in the Sniper Frontier competition were Russia, Belarus, Serbia, Myanmar, Kazakhstan, Iran, Mongolia, Armenia, China, Azerbaijan, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Bangladesh, and Syria.
Sergey Shoygu, Russian Defense Minister, opened the event. He said each year, more teams participate in the games and the contests become more complicated.
He stressed, however, that the spirit of courage, generosity and comradeship remain unchanged and continue to prevail on the mock battlefields.
https://www.update.ph/2018/08/ph-troops-compete-international-army-games-belarus/25372
MINSK, Belarus – Members of the Philippine Army recently competed at the International Army Games, a multi-event military competition held simultaneously in six countries from July 28 to August 11.
Eighteen countries battled it out in the event held in Russia, Belarus, China, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Iran. The Philippine contingent bagged 12th place in the “Sniper Frontier” category when they competed here.
“It’s a very good experience on the part of our shooting team. They have been competing in different shooting events in Asia and (won) gold medals. The competition [here in] Belarus was a learning experience [because] bago ang mga ginagamit na baril (new firearms were used),” said Major Dranreb Lansang of the Philippine Army Education and Training Branch in a text message.
He added that it was an “eye-opener” to mingle with soldiers from different countries with whom the Philippines does not have joint drills.
“Most of the participants come from special forces ng bawat (of every) country. And we can say [that] we Filipinos can compete with them.”
Aside from the Philippine team, other countries that competed in the Sniper Frontier competition were Russia, Belarus, Serbia, Myanmar, Kazakhstan, Iran, Mongolia, Armenia, China, Azerbaijan, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Bangladesh, and Syria.
Sergey Shoygu, Russian Defense Minister, opened the event. He said each year, more teams participate in the games and the contests become more complicated.
He stressed, however, that the spirit of courage, generosity and comradeship remain unchanged and continue to prevail on the mock battlefields.
https://www.update.ph/2018/08/ph-troops-compete-international-army-games-belarus/25372
Austal to build six 80-meter OPVs for the Philippine Navy
From Update Philippines (Aug 14): Austal to build six 80-meter OPVs for the Philippine Navy
Australian shipbuilder Austal will be delivering six offshore patrol vessels for the Philippine Navy, the company confirmed on August 13.
The confirmation follows Philippine media reports from August 11, which said the Defence Secretary of the Philippines government, Delfin Lorenzana, announced that the Australian company would be delivering the vessels from its shipyard in Cebu.
“Whilst further details on the acquisition are not currently available, Austal can confirm that it has submitted a design based on the proven Austal Cape Class Patrol Boat (CCPB) to the Philippines Navy as part of the acquisition process,” the company said in a statement.
The submitted design is for a larger, more capable variant of Austal’s Cape-class vessels that are currently in operation with the Australian Border Force and Royal Australian Navy, and that was recently announced by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago as its next maritime protection asset.
The variant developed for the Philippines is a circa 80-meter steel OPV which includes a dedicated helicopter flight deck and the latest technology in naval systems, including Austal’s MarineLink ship control system and ride control technology.
https://www.update.ph/2018/08/austal-build-six-80-meter-opvs-philippine-navy/25369
Australian shipbuilder Austal will be delivering six offshore patrol vessels for the Philippine Navy, the company confirmed on August 13.
The confirmation follows Philippine media reports from August 11, which said the Defence Secretary of the Philippines government, Delfin Lorenzana, announced that the Australian company would be delivering the vessels from its shipyard in Cebu.
“Whilst further details on the acquisition are not currently available, Austal can confirm that it has submitted a design based on the proven Austal Cape Class Patrol Boat (CCPB) to the Philippines Navy as part of the acquisition process,” the company said in a statement.
The submitted design is for a larger, more capable variant of Austal’s Cape-class vessels that are currently in operation with the Australian Border Force and Royal Australian Navy, and that was recently announced by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago as its next maritime protection asset.
The variant developed for the Philippines is a circa 80-meter steel OPV which includes a dedicated helicopter flight deck and the latest technology in naval systems, including Austal’s MarineLink ship control system and ride control technology.
https://www.update.ph/2018/08/austal-build-six-80-meter-opvs-philippine-navy/25369
Alleged NPA yields gun after checkpoint arrest
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 17): Alleged NPA yields gun after checkpoint arrest
An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was apprehended in a military checkpoint in Purok 11, Barangay Poblacion, Mawab, Compostela Valley on Sunday.
1Lt. Jhocell Asis, the civil-military operations officer of 71st Infantry Battalion, identified the suspect as Rutchel O. Dator, a reported Militia ng Bayan member under the NPA’s Guerilla Front 34.
Lt. Col. Esteveyn E. Ducusin, the commander of the 71st Infantry Battalion, said that Sgt. Marcelo T. Pacat, Jr., who led the team that mounted the checkpoint, observed that Dator was reportedly acting suspiciously. They accosted the suspect and found one .357 Magnum revolver and a knife from his possession.
The items were turned over to the Mawab Municipal Police Station as supporting evidence for the filing of the case against Dator.
“It was recalled that during last year’s Araw ng Mawab, we lost the lives of our two soldiers while securing the town’s celebration because of the treacherous and inhumane acts of the (NPAs),” Ducusin said.
He said the arrest of the suspect could have waylaid the plan of the NPA to disrupt the 59th Araw ng Mawab and 8th Pagsandugan Festival last Aug. 10 to 14, as well as the celebration of its town fiesta yesterday.
“We are very glad that this year’s celebration ended with no untoward incidents,” the battalion commander said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/alleged-npa-yields-gun-after-checkpoint-arrest/
An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was apprehended in a military checkpoint in Purok 11, Barangay Poblacion, Mawab, Compostela Valley on Sunday.
1Lt. Jhocell Asis, the civil-military operations officer of 71st Infantry Battalion, identified the suspect as Rutchel O. Dator, a reported Militia ng Bayan member under the NPA’s Guerilla Front 34.
Lt. Col. Esteveyn E. Ducusin, the commander of the 71st Infantry Battalion, said that Sgt. Marcelo T. Pacat, Jr., who led the team that mounted the checkpoint, observed that Dator was reportedly acting suspiciously. They accosted the suspect and found one .357 Magnum revolver and a knife from his possession.
The items were turned over to the Mawab Municipal Police Station as supporting evidence for the filing of the case against Dator.
“It was recalled that during last year’s Araw ng Mawab, we lost the lives of our two soldiers while securing the town’s celebration because of the treacherous and inhumane acts of the (NPAs),” Ducusin said.
He said the arrest of the suspect could have waylaid the plan of the NPA to disrupt the 59th Araw ng Mawab and 8th Pagsandugan Festival last Aug. 10 to 14, as well as the celebration of its town fiesta yesterday.
“We are very glad that this year’s celebration ended with no untoward incidents,” the battalion commander said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/alleged-npa-yields-gun-after-checkpoint-arrest/
Septuagenarian tribal leader killed by alleged NPA rebels
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 17): Septuagenarian tribal leader killed by alleged NPA rebels
Another tribal leader was murdered by alleged communist guerrillas, believed to be members of Section Committee 89, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, in Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasugong, Bukidnon on Aug. 13.
Capt. Norman Tagros, the civil-military operations officer of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, identified the victim as Benedicto Dinoy who was better known as Datu Mantalasan, 70, a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Dumalaguing.
Tagros said Datu Mantalasan was an Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative of the Higaonon tribe in the said community.
Accordingly, 10 unidentified armed men forcibly entered the residence of the victim around 9 p.m. on the same day and dragged him to an isolated area of the village.
Residents later heard gunshots.
His bullet-riddled body was found the next day.
Lt. Col. Ronald M. Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion, condemned the murder of the tribal leader.
“We mourn for the loss of the indigenous people’s community representative. This act is clear evidence that the CPP-NPA terrorists have no regard whatsoever to the culture of the indigenous peoples,” Illana said.
“They do not value the lives of others, especially the lives of innocent civilians who have no participation in any conflict,” he added.
He also said the rebels “violated the International Humanitarian Law, which protects civilians from harm regardless of race, religion, beliefs, and culture.”
Brig. Gen. Eric C Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division, said that Datu Mantalasan was not a legitimate target because he had no direct participation in the government’s anti-insurgency drive.
“The CPP-NPA has once again proven their true nature as terrorists and oppressors of the Lumads,” he said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/septuagenarian-tribal-leader-killed-by-alleged-npa-rebels/
Another tribal leader was murdered by alleged communist guerrillas, believed to be members of Section Committee 89, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, in Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasugong, Bukidnon on Aug. 13.
Capt. Norman Tagros, the civil-military operations officer of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, identified the victim as Benedicto Dinoy who was better known as Datu Mantalasan, 70, a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Dumalaguing.
Tagros said Datu Mantalasan was an Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative of the Higaonon tribe in the said community.
Accordingly, 10 unidentified armed men forcibly entered the residence of the victim around 9 p.m. on the same day and dragged him to an isolated area of the village.
Residents later heard gunshots.
His bullet-riddled body was found the next day.
Lt. Col. Ronald M. Illana, the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion, condemned the murder of the tribal leader.
“We mourn for the loss of the indigenous people’s community representative. This act is clear evidence that the CPP-NPA terrorists have no regard whatsoever to the culture of the indigenous peoples,” Illana said.
“They do not value the lives of others, especially the lives of innocent civilians who have no participation in any conflict,” he added.
He also said the rebels “violated the International Humanitarian Law, which protects civilians from harm regardless of race, religion, beliefs, and culture.”
Brig. Gen. Eric C Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division, said that Datu Mantalasan was not a legitimate target because he had no direct participation in the government’s anti-insurgency drive.
“The CPP-NPA has once again proven their true nature as terrorists and oppressors of the Lumads,” he said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/septuagenarian-tribal-leader-killed-by-alleged-npa-rebels/
NPA leader surrenders
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 20): NPA leader surrenders
A former liquidation squad leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the 66th Infantry Battalion on Friday, authorities said yesterday.
Lt. Col. Palmer Parungao, the 66IB commander, did not name the surrenderer but said the former rebel was the SPARU (Special Partisan Unit) leader of the now dismantled Guerilla Front 27 of the communist armed group.
Sensing that the military was also just a step behind him, the former squad leader coordinated with his former subordinates who earlier returned to the folds of law to arrange for his surrender.
Parungao said the group of the rebel leader encountered operatives of the 66th IB in Maragusan, Compostela Valley on a number of occasions in the past years.
The surrenderer also revealed a cache of improvised explosive devices hidden in the forested area of Barangay Camanlangan, New Bataan, Compostela Valley.
Government troopers immediately traced and seized the war materials, which were intended for Guerilla Front 2 in Sitio Bantuayan, Camanlangan last March.
http://mindanaotimes.net/npa-leader-surrenders-2/
A former liquidation squad leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the 66th Infantry Battalion on Friday, authorities said yesterday.
Lt. Col. Palmer Parungao, the 66IB commander, did not name the surrenderer but said the former rebel was the SPARU (Special Partisan Unit) leader of the now dismantled Guerilla Front 27 of the communist armed group.
Sensing that the military was also just a step behind him, the former squad leader coordinated with his former subordinates who earlier returned to the folds of law to arrange for his surrender.
Parungao said the group of the rebel leader encountered operatives of the 66th IB in Maragusan, Compostela Valley on a number of occasions in the past years.
The surrenderer also revealed a cache of improvised explosive devices hidden in the forested area of Barangay Camanlangan, New Bataan, Compostela Valley.
Government troopers immediately traced and seized the war materials, which were intended for Guerilla Front 2 in Sitio Bantuayan, Camanlangan last March.
http://mindanaotimes.net/npa-leader-surrenders-2/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)