Canada seeks to conclude defense MOU with PH by June

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2023): Canada seeks to conclude defense MOU with PH by June (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – The Canadian government is hoping to finalize and sign a defense cooperation deal with Manila on the margins of the Shangri-La Dialogue in June, the Canadian Embassy in Manila said Wednesday.

A senior embassy official who presented Ottawa’s new Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) on condition of anonymity during a briefing in Makati, said the memorandum of understanding would serve as a framework to improve defense relations stalled by disagreements during the past administration.

“We have not had a deep defense relationship and opportunities to build that relationship were interrupted by disagreements between the two countries on issues like human rights, etc,” he said.

“We have a new opportunity so we are negotiating that—both sides see an enormous potential and value,” he added.

Canada, the official said, is looking for opportunities to increase its participation in exercises in the absence of a Visiting Forces Agreement or a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement similar to what Manila has with the United States or Australia.

Once finalized, the MOU would cover expanded security partnerships, possible military exercises and training and capacity building, among others.

The official said the Armed Forces of the Philippines is interested in a range of different training and Canada is ready to evaluate this in line with the IPS, which places importance to the Philippines as a vital partner in the region.

“We're prepared to evaluate and look at that. And we were allocating resources to be able to do more in this part of the world,” he said.

Aside from defense, Canada looks forward to enhancing maritime cooperation with the country.

Manila has recently proposed a maritime dialogue, which the official sees as timely given the IPS’s launch in November 2022.

The official said the mechanism is being studied and would be “wide-ranging” to cover environmental protection, oil spill mitigation, maritime safety and fishery stock management.

‘Increased presence’

Canada plans to increase presence in the region through the 2.3 billion Canadian dollar IPS, spanning from peace and security initiatives to strengthening economic ties across the region.

In the said briefing, the official said Canada would also work with partners to push back against any unilateral actions that threaten status quo in the East and South China Sea, including the Taiwan Strait.

Beijing, Manila and other neighboring nations have overlapping claims over the vast and resource-rich South China Sea.

The official highlighted that Canada’s approach to China would be “inseparable” from its broader IPS and it would challenge the rising power “when we ought to” and cooperate with them when they must.

“China is looking to shape the international order into a more permissive environment for interests and values that increasingly depart from ours. And China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada,” the official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194173

Congressional gold medal awards highlight strong PH-US bond

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1, 2023): Congressional gold medal awards highlight strong PH-US bond (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AWARDING. Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. delivers a message during the 22nd United States Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) awarding ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Jan. 31, 2023. He thanked the US government for honoring Filipino war veterans. (Contributed photo)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. expressed his appreciation to the US government for honoring the Filipino World War II veterans which was highlighted by the 22nd United States Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) Awarding Ceremony last Tuesday.

The event, which served as a testament to the shared history and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the US, was held at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"The DND expresses its deepest gratitude to the US government for honoring our war veterans. They are living symbols of the shared history and strong bond between our nations,” Galvez said in a statement Wednesday night.

He also added that Filipino World War II veterans deserved the highest recognition possible for their gallantry and service.

“Our veterans are heroes in the truest sense. They deserve the highest form of recognition for serving in various capacities and fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with our American soldiers during the Second World War,” Galvez said.

A total of 38 Filipino World War II veterans were awarded during the ceremony.

Of the awardees, 23 of them personally received their medals, while 15 were awarded posthumously. Four of the awardees were also centenarians.

“It is remarkable and even more inspiring that despite their advanced age, some even stood up and walked to receive their CGM, including Private Arturo F. Coronel of the Mariano Ponce’s Regiment, who is now 100 years old,” the DND chief said.

Galvez also thanked Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), led by its administrator Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, for its outstanding work, as he called on the agency to continue protecting and promoting our veterans’ welfare.

Since 2018, the PVAO has conducted 22 awarding ceremonies not only in Metro Manila but in other provinces.

A total of 628 veterans have been recipients of the US CGM awards.

“Congratulations on today’s (Jan. 31) successful and heartwarming recognition ceremony,” he said.

“I also thank the hardworking team in PVAO for continuously and excellently serving our veterans and their beneficiaries by delivering the benefits, healthcare assistance, and scholarships they rightfully deserve. Your dedication to your duties shall ensure that our nation will never forget the lessons from our history,” he added.

Galvez, likewise, recognized the legacy of veterans, many of whom have children and grandchildren who chose to pay it forward by becoming public servants.

“I have no doubt that our veterans ignited their desire to become part of the government to serve our people and our communities across the country. Looking back, the stories of selfless service and sacrifices of our forebears inspired me and ultimately influenced my decision to join the Philippine military and later on, help push forward the comprehensive Philippine peace process,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mapagu underscored the importance of conferring the awards to as many of the country’s living veterans as possible.

“We, in the PVAO, along with our partners in the Filipino veterans community, various veterans organizations and local government units, will continue to work hard to make this happen,” the PVAO administrator said.

Mapagu said they have fought for the rightful recognition of Filipino veterans for many years. He added that they continue to do so because this is the least they can do for these heroes.

Galvez also thanked former DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and the people behind the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project, who initiated the legislation that provided for the US CGM awards to Filipino veterans.

“Its success is a testament to what the Filipino-American Veterans’ Community can achieve when united for a noble purpose,” he added.

Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy in the Philippines, Heather Variava, also paid tribute to the Filipino veterans.

“The Congressional Gold Medal ceremony takes us back in time to remember the contributions of our soldiers and how they overcame the adversities of war,” she said.

“Your stories are true testaments of lasting patriotism and bravery. And they are an indelible marker of an enduring relationship between our countries.”

Galvez noted that the CGM awarding ceremony is timely considering the arrival of US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in the Philippines. Their scheduled bilateral meeting, he said, is a testament of the strong and enduring ties between the two nations.

”As a fellow product of the United States Army Infantry School at Fort Benning in Georgia, I look forward to meeting with Secretary Austin and discussing how our respective defense departments can further strengthen our collaboration,” Galvez said.

“The United States has long been our country’s partner during crises, especially in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Filipinos during calamities,” he added.

He is hopeful that the meeting will open up more avenues for the two countries to pursue stronger and more strategic joint defense capabilities.

“We are looking at expanding our training and activities with our allies through exercises such as the Balikatan,” Galvez said.

He added the DND intends to continue building on the ironclad partnership with its US counterparts.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194184

32 senior Navy, Marine Corps officials promoted to higher ranks

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): 32 senior Navy, Marine Corps officials promoted to higher ranks (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

MANILA – Thirty-two officers of the Philippine Navy (PN) and Philippine Marine Corps were promoted to their next higher rank.

PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza, in a statement Thursday, said the promotion rites for 24 Navy captains and eight Marine colonels were held at Navy headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

He added that PN vice commander Rear Adm. Caesar Bernard Valencia presided over the activities.

"The PN is proud of all of you as your career advancement manifests our organization's continuous growth,” Valencia said.

The PN vice commander also described the donning ceremony as "our organization’s way of celebrating and acknowledging your commitment, your excellence and your leadership capabilities as you advance in your respective military careers."

“You are now a Captain, you are now a Colonel and that bears a lot of responsibilities. And I hope that all of you realize what this responsibility would be, to see what we want the Navy to be, a modern and multi-capable Philippine Navy by the year 2028,” Valencia said.

Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Capt. Antonio Lalisan, deputy commander of the Naval Special Operations Command, enjoined his fellow promotees to “work together and create a timing of leadership that will inspire the new generation of young officers, men and women of the Philippine Navy”.

He also assured that they will keep up the high ideals and standards of the organization.

Likewise, Col. John Manuel Cortez, the deputy commander of the Coastal Defense Regiment and representative of the eight Marine officer promotees encouraged everyone to “continue to work as hard, be more dedicated and more passionate in accomplishing our tasks and responsibilities, and continue to contribute to realizing the goals in our military service.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194189

PH Army to digitize all records

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): PH Army to digitize all records (By Priam Nepomuceno)

RECORDS DIGITIZATION. Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawne Jr. (center), Army Adjutant Col. Danilo E. Estrañero (left), and Master’s Stewards Information Technology (MIST) Solutions, Inc. managing director Mary Ann Cabal-Soleno (right) formalize the agreement for the digitization of military records during the signing ceremony in Fort Bonifacio on Wednesday (Feb. 1, 2023). The digitization project is part of the PA leadership’s efforts to leverage technology in providing relevant and responsive services to soldiers. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

MANILA – All records of the Philippine Army (PA) will now be digitized.

This came after the PA and technology solutions provider Master's Stewards Information Technology (MIST) signed a deal of digitization under the Office of the Army Adjutant at the Army Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio on Wednesday.

"The signing formalized the agreement between the PA, represented by Army Adjutant Col. Danilo E. Estrañero, and MIST Solutions, Inc. represented by its managing director Ms. Mary Ann Cabal-Soleno," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Thursday.

He added that the digitization project is part of the PA leadership’s efforts to leverage technology in providing relevant and responsive services to soldiers.

The Office of the Army Adjutant serves as the repository of information of all Army officers and men from commissionship or enlistment to retirement.

"This digitization will help the PA expedite the processing of benefits due to deserving personnel specifically our KIA (killed in action), wounded, sick and retirees,” PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194192

PNP chief cites Intel Group’s role in upholding peace and order

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): PNP chief cites Intel Group’s role in upholding peace and order (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

(Photo courtesy of PNP)

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. lauded the efforts and contributions of the Intelligence Group (IG) to maintaining peace and security in the country as the force's "brain, eyes and ears.”

“As the 'brain' of the organization, the group is responsible for analyzing and interpreting information to provide useful intelligence to our officers in the field and frontline units. They are the ones who identify potential threats and develop strategies to neutralize them. As the ‘eyes and ears’ of the organization, the group is responsible for the intelligence and counterintelligence efforts of the PNP. They gather information through various means and provide our officers with real-time intelligence about suspects and criminals' activities which enables the organization to stay ahead of the curve and proactively address potential threats to public safety and security,” Azurin said during the IG's 44th founding anniversary on Wednesday.

The PNP chief also said the IG is committed to this framework and works tirelessly for us to achieve these goals.

"But more importantly, the theme espouses that the PNP's operations must be conducted in accordance with the rule of law and that the rights of all citizens are respected and protected,” said Azurin.

This year's theme highlights the importance of intelligence in promoting peace, security, and progress, particularly in the context of the PNP’s M+K+K=K Peace and Security framework, which stands for "Malasakit + Kaayusan + Kapayapaan = Kaunlaran".

“And through the Kasimbayanan program that fosters collaboration with religious institutions and local communities, the group is able to gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing these communities, develop effective strategies to address them, and enable them to better identify and respond to emerging security threats. Thus, building trust with the people they serve,” the country’s top cop noted.

Azurin cited the notable accomplishments of IG in 2022 where it initiated the neutralization of 255 members of local terrorist groups (LTGs), including the mass surrender of 100 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members on July 30, 2022, in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu.

The IG's continuous efforts on the campaign against communist personalities resulted in the neutralization of 1,947 rebels through Case Operations and Intelligence Packet developed by Regional Intelligence Units (RIUs) and Operating Divisions (ODs) in full support to Executive Order No. 70 which created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Likewise, the IG’s police operations resulted in the blacklisting and deportation of a German national identified as Jean Pierre Pacaut who is included in the no-fly list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s terrorist screening center.

Pacaut is allegedly connected with the Al-Qaeda and a foreign terrorist suicide bomber identified as Abu Khatir Al-Maghribi/Al-Maghribi, a German-Moroccan citizen, who was responsible for the country’s first suicide bombing in Lamitan, Basilan on July 31, 2018.

On anti-criminality efforts, the group arrested 1,090 most wanted persons, 20 of whom with monetary rewards amounting to more than PHP3 million, 198 other wanted persons, 191 criminal groups, 77 private armed groups (PAGs), 291 on illegal gambling and 83 on loose firearms.

In the campaign against illegal drugs, the group provided Target Intelligence Packets (TIPs) which resulted in the arrest of 280 drug personalities and the seizure of more or less PHP27 million worth of illegal drugs in the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations.

Established in 1979, the IG's mandate is to gather, analyze and disseminate intelligence information to support the PNP's law enforcement operations.

Over the years, the group has continuously evolved to meet the changing security landscape and improve its capability to address emerging threats.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194197

PBBM reaffirms ‘strong’ US-PH partnership

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): PBBM reaffirms ‘strong’ US-PH partnership (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (left) and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (right) (PNA photo by Rey Baniquet)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday emphasized the importance of further bolstering the cooperation between the Philippines and the United States (US).

This was after he reaffirmed the two countries’ “strong relations’ during his meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

“I’ll be stating the obvious to say that our longest partner and ally has been the US,” Marcos told Austin who paid him a courtesy call. “I have always said, it seems to me the future of the Philippines and for that matter, the Asia Pacific, we’ll always have to involve the US simply because those partnerships are so strong.”

Marcos also thanked Austin for sharing his views on several geopolitical issues, especially in the Asia Pacific, saying the region “can only navigate properly with the help of our partners and our allies in the international sphere.”

“Thank you for finding your time to come and be with us and perhaps exchange some ideas and thoughts and comments and information on the current situation geopolitically, and of course more specifically here in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.

Before his meeting with Marcos, Austin had a dialogue with National Security Adviser Eduardo Año and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo at the Palace’s Aguado Mansion.

Austin’s visit to Manila is expected to strengthen the two nations’ alliance and existing defense agreements.

This is the second time Austin visited the Philippines. In April 2022, he came to the country to enhance the alliance between Manila and Washington DC.

Marcos, during a courtesy call of the US-Philippines Society at Malacañan on Monday, said the partnerships between the two countries “have become as important as ever.”

“And that is when we once again look to our friends and partners in the United States to be our treaty partner, and of course, our neighbors in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the entire Asia Pacific extending up to the Indo-Pacific,” he said.

In his remarks, Austin relayed US President Joe Biden’s commitment to further boost the two nations’ ties “in every way possible.”

The US, Austin said, considers the Philippines as an “important ally.”

“You made a number of comments about the strength of our relationship, I echo those comments. We do have a strong relationship and my goal, and certainly President Biden’s goal is to strengthen that relationship in every way possible,” Austin said.

Austin also pledged to boost the US’ defense cooperation with the Philippines.

“You are a key ally, an important ally, and so from the defense perspective, we will continue to work together with our great partners to build and modernize your capabilities as well as increase our interoperability,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194201

PH, US agree on 4 new EDCA locations

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): PH, US agree on 4 new EDCA locations (By Priam Nepomuceno)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (left) and Department of National Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (right) (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

MANILA – The Philippines and the United States agreed to designate four new locations to boost the full implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

"Today, the Philippines and the United States are proud to announce their plans to accelerate the full implementation of the EDCA with the full agreement to designate four new Agreed Locations in strategic areas of the country and the substantial completion of the projects in the existing five Agreed Locations," the US Department of Defense and the Department of National Defense said in a joint statement released on Thursday.

This came shortly after the arrival of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III at the DND building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City for a meeting with his counterpart Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr.

However, the four new locations agreed upon by the two nations were not identified.

The EDCA is a key pillar of the US-Philippines alliance, which supports combined training, exercises, and interoperability between Filipino and American forces.

"Expansion of the EDCA will make our alliance stronger and more resilient, and will accelerate the modernization of our combined military capabilities," the statement read.

The addition of these new EDCA locations will allow more rapid support for humanitarian and climate-related disasters in the Philippines and respond to other shared challenges.

"The United States has allocated over USD82 million toward infrastructure investments at the existing five sites under the EDCA, and is proud that these investments are supporting economic growth and job creation in local Philippine communities," it added.

Manila and Washington DC have committed to moving quickly in agreeing to the necessary plans and investments for the new and existing EDCA locations.

"The Philippine-US alliance has stood the test of time and remains ironclad. We look forward to the opportunities these new sites will create to expand our cooperation together," it said.

Finalized after eight rounds of talks in August 2013, the EDCA which was signed in 2014 allows US troops access to designated Philippine military facilities, the right to build facilities, and preposition equipment, aircraft, and vessels, but rules out permanent basing.

Under the EDCA, the Philippine government is working with the US to build the future facilities in Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation in Nueva Ecija; Lumbia Airfield in Cagayan de Oro City; Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa, Palawan; and Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194213

US defense chief affirms MDT commitment to PH vs. attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 2, 2023): US defense chief affirms MDT commitment to PH vs. attacks (By Priam Nepomuceno)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (left) and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

MANILA – United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and emphasized US support in case of attacks.

"We (have) note that the MDT applies to armed attacks on either of our Armed Forces, public vessels or aircraft anywhere in the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea. We discussed concrete actions to address destabilizing activities in the waters surrounding the Philippines including the West Philippine Sea," Austin said in a joint press conference with Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. held shortly after their meeting in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Austin said they are "committed to strengthening our mutual capacities to resist armed attack".

This includes ongoing efforts to modernize the Philippine-US alliance, he added.

"These efforts are especially important as (the) People's Republic of China continues to advance its illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea," he added.

Austin also expressed hope for a brighter future for the two nations' alliance in working "to defend our shared values of freedom, democracy and human dignity."

"As you heard me say, before, (the) United States and the Philippines are more than just allies, we're family," Austin stressed.

Strong bond

Meanwhile, Galvez the visit of his US counterpart to the country signifies a strong bond and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the United States, particularly in the areas of humanitarian assistance, economic development and peace and security among others.

This commitment will allow the relationship between the two countries to become "stronger and robust," he added.

"Moreover, the trip of the Honorable Secretary Austin symbolizes the United States government’s steadfast commitment to help its allies in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our nation shares the belief that sustainable development and genuine peace should go hand-in-hand," Galvez said.

During their meeting, Galvez said their priorities include the full implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) by completing the ongoing projects.

This includes agreement to designate new sites where EDCA agreed locations may be developed.

"We will work on the timely conclusion of the framework of cooperation that will facilitate secure exchange of information between our defense establishments. We also encourage the continued planning and conduct of high-impact and high-value activities, primarily through the Philippine-US Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagements Board or (MDB-SEB), and other Philippine-US cooperative mechanisms," he added.

Both defense chiefs also agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation to support the Philippines' defense capability needs as well as the alliance between the two nations.

"The bilateral meeting we had today (Thursday) will further strengthen our nation’s collaborative efforts in addressing present security threats within the region as well as effectively dealing with the natural disasters caused by climate change, a major global concern we need to confront head-on," Galvez said.

The DND chief also pledged to continue working towards maintaining a stable, rules-based, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region along with partner countries.

"We strongly oppose any unilateral action or attempt to disrupt current world order, and share the same views that all countries should resolve any issue peacefully and adhere to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS," he added.

Galvez also thanked the US for its continued support in the country's ongoing fight against Covid-19 and counter-terrorism efforts in the southern part of the Philippines.

"Our discussion focused on how our countries could continue to work together in order to preserve the Philippine territorial integrity. We also talked about the initiatives that our nations can carry out to mitigate the impact of climate change in our societies. These efforts, which we hope to jointly undertake is in line with the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos (Jr.) and that is for the defense department to make sure that not an inch of our nation’s territory will be lost and our people’s safety and security will be ensured by the strengthening of our diplomatic relations with our allies, preserve peace, and create a stable international environment in the Asia-Pacific region," he added.

Productive

Meanwhile, Austin said his meeting with Galvez is "very productive" and looks forwards to working more closely with his Filipino counterpart.

"Now, this is the fourth discussion that I had with the DND leaders since the start of the Marcos administration and that just underscores the importance that both of our countries place on this relationship. This is our oldest treaty alliance in Southeast Asia. We conduct more than 500 defense engagements together every year," the American official pointed out.

Also, Austin said US President Joseph Biden have made it very clear about American commitment to Philippine defense.

"President Biden has made clear America's commitment to the defense of the Philippines is iron clad, our alliance makes both of our democracies more secure and helps uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific and today we discussed ways to make this vital alliance even stronger," he added.

He also said that they are pleased with the decision of President Marcos to approve four new EDCA locations bringing the total number of the sites to nine.

‘Common aspiration’

Hours after the announcement, China accused the US of having a “zero-sum game mentality” by continuing to step up its military posture in the region.

“China always holds that defense and security cooperation between countries should be conducive to regional peace and stability, not target against any third party, even less to harm the interests of a third party,” the Chinese Embassy in Manila said in a statement Thursday.

“Its actions escalate regional tension and undermine regional peace and stability,” it added.

The embassy also dismissed the US Defense chief’s remarks over the South China Sea as contradictory to the “common aspiration” for regional peace.

“It is hoped that the Philippine side stays vigilant and resists from being taken advantage of and dragged into trouble waters,” it said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194258

No plans for permanent basing in PH: US defense chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 3, 2023): No plans for permanent basing in PH: US defense chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

MANILA – The United States is not interested in building permanent bases in the Philippines.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III made this clarification following the earlier announcement of the Department of National Defense (DND) and US Department of Defense that they have agreed to designate four new locations as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) facilities

"In terms of EDC locations, I just want to be clear that we are not seeking permanent basing in the Philippines, as you heard us say in our statements, EDCA is a collaborative agreement that enables rotational activities," he said in media briefing shortly after his meeting with DND Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. Thursday afternoon.

He also said these EDCA locations are a key pillar of training and opportunities to strengthen the interoperability of both Philippines and US forces.

"It also provides us the ability to respond effectively to humanitarian issues and also disaster relief and other types of crisis, not just for the Philippines but for the regions we are at," Austin said.

In the same press conference, Galvez said these four new EDCA locations would be revealed once they have finished consulting with the local communities where these facilities would be located.

"The President wanted that all actions will be consulted with our local governments and wanted also to see that these agreements of the four EDCA sites will be finished, " he added.

Finalized after eight rounds of talks in August 2013, the EDCA which was signed in 2014 allows US troops access to designated Philippine military facilities, the right to build facilities, and preposition equipment, aircraft, and vessels, but rules out permanent basing.

Under the EDCA, the Philippine government is working with the US to build the future facilities in Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation in Nueva Ecija; Lumbia Airfield in Cagayan de Oro City; Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; and Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu province.

PH needs more heavy, medium-lift capability for disaster response

Asked what capabilities are needed to boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Galvez said the military needs more heavy and medium-lift capability to boost its disaster response missions.

"I believe it's more on the (heavy and) medium-lift capability like what we have bought for our disaster relief and search and rescue operations," he added.

Galvez said this means more C-130 cargo transports and S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters which the AFP has already configured for search and rescue missions.

Aside from this, the DND chief said the AFP needs more assets to defend the country's maritime domain.

This includes the capability to detect submarines in the West Philippine Sea, Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194298

Army division in C. Mindanao has new commander

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2023): Army division in C. Mindanao has new commander (By Edwin Fernandez)

CHANGE OF COMMAND. Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner (center) leads the change of command of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division from Maj. Gen. Roy Galido (right) to Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera (left) at Camp Siongco in Maguindanao del Norte on Friday (Jan. 27, 2023). Rillera vows to continue the peace projects initiated at the 6ID by Galido, who moved up as the new commander of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera assumed Friday as the new head of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID), replacing Maj. Gen. Roy Galido.

Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner officiated the turnover ceremonies and change of command held at the 6ID parade grounds on Friday morning.

In turning over the reign of 6ID, Galido – now the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command – expressed confidence that the unit will be in “good hands” under Rillera.

Rillera vowed to sustain 6ID's peacebuilding projects, describing his new area of assignment as challenging due to the presence of local terrorist groups linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

The 6ID covers the provinces of Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, South Cotabato, parts of Sarangani, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Sur; and the cities of Cotabato, Tacurong, Koronadal and General Santos.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193802

3 NPA rebels fall in separate Caraga police ops

 From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 27, 2023): 3 NPA rebels fall in separate Caraga police ops (By Alexander Lopez)

WANTED NPA REBEL. The Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office reports Friday (Jan. 27, 2023) the arrest of Amit Hurod, a New People's Army fighter involved in an attack that killed four government troopers in 2021 in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. Two other NPA insurgents were also arrested on Thursday in separate police operations conducted in Surigao del Sur and Butuan City. (Photo courtesy of ADNPPO)

BUTUAN CITY – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were arrested in separate police operations conducted in Agusan del Norte, Butuan City and Surigao del Sur on Thursday.

The arrested NPA insurgents are all wanted for murder charges with arrest warrants issued by the local courts, police said.

In a statement Friday, Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADNPPO) chief Col. Filemon Pacios said Amit Hurod, 28, was arrested by the personnel of Jabonga Municipal Police Station on Thursday in Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga.

Hurod, an insurgent belonging to the NPA's Guerrilla Front 16B, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), is wanted for murder, according to the arrest warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 34 in Cabadbaran City in February last year.

“Hurod is listed as the top one most wanted person in the regional level,” Pacio said, adding that the suspect was among the 30 NPA guerrillas who attacked government troops in Barangay Maraiging, Jabonga in 2021.

The attack killed four government troopers, wounded another two, and slightly injured a civilian in the area.

During his arrest, Hurod was also served with two other arrest warrants issued by the same court in Cabadbaran City for a separate case of murder and robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons.

Meanwhile, the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) also reported the arrest of Richard M. Flores, in Barangay Pianing on Thursday.

In a report Friday, the BCPO said that Flores, who is wanted for murder, is an NPA rebel listed as a "top priority target" in the city.

Moreover, the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) also reported the arrest on Thursday of Beverly Llanos Vocales in Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel town.

Vocales, an NPA rebel belonging to the Weakened Guerrilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Committee Southland, NEMRC, has an arrest warrant for murder.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193779

Lanao Sur town police chief, 2 others hurt in gunfight

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 28, 2023): Lanao Sur town police chief, 2 others hurt in gunfight (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

GALLANTRY. Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) director, awards the "Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting" on Friday (Jan. 27, 2023) to three policemen for gallantry. The three policemen were wounded in a firefight with suspected members of the terror group Dawlah Islamiya in Marantao town, Lanao del Sur province on Thursday (Jan. 26, 2023). (Photo courtesy of PRO-BAR)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A town police chief in Lanao del Sur province and two other cops were wounded Thursday in a firefight with suspected members of a terrorist group, according to a late report reaching here Saturday.

Major Bobby Egera, the police chief of Marantao town in Lanao del Sur, and his men Corporal Mujahid Taurac and Corporal Al-sadat Jahari were wounded when members of local terror group Dawlah Islamiya engaged them in a gunbattle around 2:30 p.m. in Barangay Nataron, Marantao town.

The policemen were supposed to serve an arrest warrant against Abbas Dimmang Rampa, when they were fired upon by the latter’s group which eventually led to a gunfight, said Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command.

Rampa, who was listed as the number two most wanted person in Marantao, died during the firefight while two of his men identified as Ansaruna Mulingan Magi and Johari Taban Barani were captured by the authorities.

Verceles also said the policemen recovered at the clash site an M-16 Armalite rifle with ammunition, a grenade, 18 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of suspected shabu and drug paraphernalia.

He said the body of Rampa was immediately turned over to his family for burial under Islamic beliefs.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region director, on Friday, awarded the “Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting”, to the three wounded policemen for gallantry in action.

Guyguyon conferred the medal and gave financial assistance when he visited the three wounded policemen at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193827

S. Cotabato to improve operation of 'happy home' for ex-rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2023): S. Cotabato to improve operation of 'happy home' for ex-rebels (By Che Palicte)

DAVAO CITY – The South Cotabato provincial government has expressed interest in how the Davao Oriental province runs its Happy Home, a halfway house for former communist rebels.

In a statement Monday, Karen Lou Deloso, Davao Oriental’s provincial information officer, said delegates from South Cotabato visited the province's Happy Home last week to learn about management strategies in order to improve its own program for rebel returnees.

“The delegates from South Cotabato expressed their gratitude to the provincial government for giving them an idea about operating this kind of facility. South Cotabato began its facility’s operation only a year ago,” Deloso said.

During the visit, retired Brig. Gen. Leopoldo Imbang Jr., the action officer of Davao Oriental’s Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) Program, also took time to explain to the visitors how the facility has been helping former rebels start over with their new lives.

Davao Occidental Governor Corazon Malanyaon established the Happy Home in 2013, serving former communist New People’s Army (NPA) members.

“In the last 10 years since its operation, the facility has assisted more than 500 ex-rebels who have returned to the fold of the law and are now active partners in the country's peace-building,” Malanyaon said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193899

Village chief, wife slain in Maguindanao Norte ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2023): Village chief, wife slain in Maguindanao Norte ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)

AMBUSHED. Onlookers mill around the ill-fated pick-up vehicle of Polloc village chairperson Abobakar Abdul after he and his wife were ambushed by still unidentified gunmen in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, Monday (Jan. 30, 2023). A PHP100,000 reward has been offered by Parang Mayor Kahar Ibay for anyone who could identify the perpetrators of the incident. (Photo courtesy of Parang MPS)

PARANG, Maguindanao Norte – Unidentified gunmen ambushed and killed a village chairperson and his wife along a remote section of the national highway here, a police official reported Tuesday.

Maj. Christopher Cabugwang, Parang town police chief, identified the fatality as Abobakar Abdul, 40, village chair of Barangay Polloc, and his wife Bainisa, 39.

Cabugwang said Abdul and his wife were heading home in their pickup truck when two men-riding tandem on motorbike overtook and opened fire on the driver’s side of the vehicle at 5:45 p.m. Monday.

“He supervised the registration of new voters in the village to ensure it is orderly and was going home when ambushed in Barangay Timbangan,” Cabugwang said in an interview.

Police rushed the couple to the hospital but both were declared dead on arrival.

“We are still determining the possible motive, but initially we are looking at the political angle of the ambush,” Cabuwang said without elaborating.

Police found empty shells of a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.

Parang Mayor Kahar Ibay has offered a PHP100,000 reward money for anyone who can provide information that will lead to the whereabouts of the attackers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193988

Zambo Sur cops nab 2 NPA rebels for murder

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2023): Zambo Sur cops nab 2 NPA rebels for murder (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Dumingag municipality, Zamboanga del Sur.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities have arrested two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in manhunt operations in Zamboanga del Sur province, a police official said Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Neil Alinsañgan, Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) director, identified the NPA rebels as Dexter Buenaza, 26; and Redo Andata, 26, both members of the NPA Guerrilla Front Big Beautiful Country, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Alinsañgan said Buenaza was arrested by police and military operatives around 7:50 a.m. Monday in Purok 3, Barangay Saad, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur.

Buenaza has a standing warrant of arrest for murder with no recommended bail issued by a court in Dipolog City in 2018.

Meanwhile, Andata was arrested on the same day by a police and military team, also in Barangay Saad. He has a standing arrest warrant for murder with no bail issued by the same court in 2018.

Alinsañgan, however, said it was not immediately known whether Buenaza and Andata committed the crime together.

Both were placed under the temporary custody of the police in Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193986