Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Charges readied vs NPAs in Davao Sur attacks

From the Philippine Star (Mar 12): Charges readied vs NPAs in Davao Sur attacks

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) was readying charges against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who swooped down on the police station in Matan-ao, Davao del Sur and pulled off the landmine attack on a truckload of soldiers on Monday morning.

The NPA attacks resulted in the deaths of 11 people, including seven soldiers who were killed in the landmine blast. Government forces were pursuing the fleeing rebels when a landmine went off along a road in Barangay Saboy, Matan-ao town.

Two policemen and two rebels were also killed when the insurgents raided the Matan-ao police station at around 4 a.m. last Monday. 

Eight other soldiers were wounded in the landmine explosion, and three others in the police station raid. 

“Right now they (CIDG men) are in a case conference. They are preparing the cases to be filed against the rebels,” Chief Superintendent Wency Pascual, Southern Mindanao police director, told The STAR yesterday.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/03/12/1299730/charges-readied-vs-npas-davao-sur-attacks

2 more ASG members fall in Basilan

From the Philippine Star (Mar 11): 2 more ASG members fall in Basilan

Government security forces have arrested two members of the extremist Abu Sayyaff Group involved in the kidnapping of foreign and local tourists during operations in Basilan province, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) disclosed on Tuesday.

PAOCC chairman and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa said Kudairi Abdulla and Abdulgappar Inambakal were arrested by operatives of the Philippine National Police and National Bureau of Investigation in separate operations in Basilan.

Abdulla was captured in a PAOCC-supported seaborne operation conducted by combined agents of the PNP Special Action Force, the Police Regional Office 9 and the NBI in his hideout in Lampinigan Island last March 5.

Abdulla, 33, was arrested for his involvement in the Dos Palmas kidnappings where Abu Sayyaf gunmen seized 20 hostages in May 2001.

The hostage crisis led in the deaths of at least five of the original hostages including two Americans -- Gullermo Sobero, a Peruvian-born American from California who was beheaded by the terrorists, and Martin Burnham, a missionary from Kansas, USA, and Filipino nurse Ediborah Yap during a commando raid on June 7, 2002.
The other victims were Chinese and Filipino tourists.

Last March 2, combined agents of the NBI and the PNP-SAF arrested Inambakal, an ASG member who carries a P1 million bounty, during a boat interdiction operation in Maluso, Basilan.

"The suspect is wanted for 13 counts of murder and 11 counts of frustrated murder,"NBI director Virgilio Mendez said.

Inambakal is now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Western Mindanao unit.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/03/11/1299672/2-more-asg-members-fall-basilan

Sincere, sustained peace program of Abra draws more rebels back

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 11): Sincere, sustained peace program of Abra draws more rebels back

More and more  New People’s Army (NPA) members  operating in the province  are  rejoining mainstream society.

Col. Raul Bautista, Deputy Commander of the 503rd Infantry Brigade, Lt. Col. Danilo R. Domingo, commander of the 41st IB presented  two more  former rebels to Governor Bersamin  on February 24, 2014 at the Provincial Capitol.

It was done in  the presence of  Decimia D. Cabang, head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development who serves as the secretariat of the Social Integration Program (SIP) for the former rebels.

Both FRs surrendered voluntarily to the officers of the 41st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Sitio Baquero, Nalbuan, Licuan-Baay on January 30, 2014 and February 14, respectively.

In a pep talk with the two FRs,  they  bared that they were inspired to come back to the fold of the law because they have seen the sincerity of Governor Bersamin and the sustainability of his peace program through  the ‘Kabsatko Ipategko Program’ (KIP)  which is carried out in partnership with the Philippine Army and the different partner agencies and individuals who are willing to help the FRs live a normal life.

The two also told the Governor  that the difficult living condition in the underground movement  where they were both members of the Kilusang Larangan Guerilla operating in the municipalities of Malibcong, Lacub, Tineg, Licuan-Baay, Lagangilang and San Juan in Abra, had drawn them to come back to the fold of the law.

Bersamin extended immediate cash assistance to the  FRs during their presentation.

Meanwhile, the PSWD will process their application for livelihood assistance from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process  and from the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the provincial government of Abra.

Edelyn Barcelo of the Philippine Red Cross facilitated the stress de-briefing of the  two FRs  after undergoing a medical check-up in a hospital in Bangued.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=111393576165

Suspected NPA rebels burn nickel firm’s dump trucks

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 10): Suspected NPA rebels burn nickel firm’s dump trucks
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Philippines — Suspected New People’s Army rebels burned two dump trucks working for a nickel mining company operating in the town of Sofronio EspaƱola, southern Palawan Sunday night, police said Monday morning.

An initial report received by the Provincial Police Office in Palawan showed that eight communist rebels flagged down the vehicles while on their way to the pier in Sitio Ulnog, Barangay Pulot Interior in Sofronio Espanola town to unload ore from the stockpiles of Citinickel Mining Corp. for shipment at 8:30 p.m.

After seizing the vehicles and freeing its crew, the  rebels doused the trucks with gasoline and set them on fire on the road side before fleeing.

Insp. Pearl Marzo, the provincial police office spokeperson, and the spokesman of the Citinickel Mining Corp. both confirmed the attack in separate statements. Government troops have been deployed to pursue the rebels believed to be operating around the area.

“We are still completing the investigation,” Marzo told  Philippine Daily Inquirer. The NPA in Palawan has not released a statement concerning the attack.

Pamela Miguel, Citinickel spokesperson, said in a radio interview Monday morning that they did not receive any demand from the NPA before the attack.

“I am not aware of any demand, not in my level,” she said in Filipino. Miguel added that the trucks were owned by a trucking contractor of Citinickel, Cherry Construction Inc.

Citinickel was recently a subject of a complaint raised by indigenous communities in Espanola about the company’s failure to release their royalty share from the mining operations’ profit as required by the Philippine Mining Code.

“Ang kabuuan hindi pa nairerelease (the entire amount has yet to be released) but we have made partial releases for scholarships that they asked. That was coming from their royalty funds,” Miguel said.

Citinickel is majority-owned by Caroline Tanchay’s Oriental Peninsula Resources Group that controls several large blocks of mining claims in the nickel-rich southern Palawan towns of Sofronio Espanola and Narra.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/583979/suspected-npa-rebels-burn-nickel-firms-dump-trucks

MILF: Bangsamoro Women creates Coordinating Council for Unified Advocacy on Bangsamoro

From the MILF Website (Mar 12): Bangsamoro Women creates Coordinating Council for Unified Advocacy on Bangsamoro



With great challenge in mind on how to win the hearts of the Bangsamoro communities to support the crafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL)  and the referendum after its promulgation by Congress,  the Muslim Women Advocacy for Good Governance (MWAGG) and the Ittihadun-Nisa’ Foundation (INFo) with support from The Asia Foundation (TAF) and British Embassy - Manila steered the conduct of the “Workshop on Women Leaders’ Participation in the Advocacy for the Bangsamoro Government”  held on March 1-2, 2014 at EM Manor Hotel, Cotabato City.  

The 2-day workshops were participated in by a total of 53 women leaders representing nine (9) national and local women organizations, namely, Muslim Women Advocacy for Good Governance (MWAGG), Ittihadun-Nisa’ Foundation (INFo), Noorus Salam, United Youth of the Philippines (UnYPhil)-Women, Moro Women Development and Cultural Center (MWDECC), Muslim Women Organization (MWO), Political Committee-Women Sector, Bangsamoro Women Auxiliary  Brigade (BWAB), and Social Welfare Committee (SWC).   The workshops were conceptualized in response to the pressing issues confronting the Bangsamoro communities, especially the Bangsamoro women, on their lack of awareness on the progress of the GRP-MILF peace process specifically the upcoming Bangsamoro Regional Government that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
 
This workshops gave an opportunity for participating members of women organizations to realize the importance of women leaders’ participation in the advocacy on the envisioned Bangsamoro Government, provide  women leaders’  the avenue to  understand deeply the  status of women in Islam especially in politics and facilitated the creation of a coordinating body for women organizations to strengthen advocacy program.  As a result of the workshops, the participants were able to level-off on Muslim women participation in politics in the context of Islam, share realities on the ground about the level of awareness and understanding of women on FAB and the proposed Bangsamoro region, and come-up with strategies for an effective advocacy program.

Grand Mufti Abu Hurayra Abdul Rahman Udasan was one of the speakers who shed light on women issues on leadership and governance through his topic “Women in Islamic Leadership and Governance.”  Other topics discussed were “Political Participation of Women in the Context of Islam” discussed by Aleema Faudzia Musanif, “Updates on the GRP-MILF Peace Process” specifically on the FAB by Prof. Raby Angkal, and “Advocacy and Lobbying” by MWAGG President, Naima Gumaga.  


To inspire and to further boost the morale of the participants in their commitment to solidify their groups for a unified and stronger advocacy on the proposed Bangsamoro Government, the group paid a visit to the Office of MILF 1st Vice-Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar, as an addendum to the contents of the activity. The 1st Vice-Chairman was very grateful and gave his briefing on how the women can contribute much to best prepare for the new phase of the struggle that the Bangsamoro people would be entering soon.

The workshops ended with planning the next steps of the newly-created Women Coordinating Council for the Bangsamoro Government.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/867-bangsamoro-women-creates-coordinating-council-for-unified-advocacy-on-bangsamoro

MILF: Peace Advocacy Group launched in Lanao Del Sur

From the MILF Website (Mar 12): Peace Advocacy Group launched in Lanao Del Sur

 

Marawi City - A Special Committee Called Bangsamoro National Movement for Peace Advocacy was organized In Lanao Del Sur Last Month. The Committee is composed mainly of local Media men and Professionals based in Lanao Del Sur. Their main task is to gather popular Support for the Passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in the Congress and during the Plebiscite to be called for the Establishment of the Bangsamoro Government.
  
Agakhan M. Sharief, Chairman of the said Committee during a televised briefing in Marawi Islamic Televsion Channel -8, informed the Public that their Group already sent a special delegation in Metro manila and nearby Regions as far as Baguio City to Campaign and talk to Muslim Communities to Support  the Bangsamoro Basic Law and Bangsamoro  Government.

Abdullah Macaorao a Member of that delegation that went to Metro Manila, also gave a detailed Report of their accomplishments, Tens of thousand Muslims living in NCR pledged to attend the Thanks giving Rally that will be held in Metro Manila during the Signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro slated this last week of March 2014. The said Thanks giving Rally will be spearheaded by the Said Committee.

Atty. Dadatoon Disoma also urged other organizations Based in Metro manila to Participate in the Said thanks Giving event, “ We all must observe Vigilance and ensure Smooth Passage of the BBL.” added by Atty. Disoma.

The Group is also organizing a Peace Caravan that will Travel from Marawi City all the Way to the Venue of the signing of CAB.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/866-peace-advocacy-group-launched-in-lanao-del-sur

NPA rebels gun down ex-councilor in Sorsogon ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): NPA rebels gun down ex-councilor in Sorsogon ambush

New People's Army (NPA) rebels killed in an ambush a former town councilor of Magallanes, Sorsogon, in Barangay Bulala, Magallanes town on Monday morning.

A police report said Gleen Lee, married, businessman and a resident of Barangay Banacud of the same town, was on board his motorcycle at about 11:30 a.m. Monday when four young men armed with M-16 armalite rifle blocked his way and asked him and his companion, Wilfredo Mella, to alight from the vehicle.

As soon as they had alighted, the youthful-looking armed men shot dead Lee and casually walked away after telling Mella that the victim was a suspected military and police asset in the area who had been feeding information on the activities of the communist insurgents.

It has been a practice of the NPA rebels to send young recruits on a test mission, like liquidation of suspected military and police asset, police said.

Mella immediately asked assistance from authorities in the area, who brought the victim’s lifeless body to the Municipal Rural Health Unit for autopsy.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=624329

Army soldier wounded in encounter with NPA rebels in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Army soldier wounded in encounter with NPA rebels in Sorsogon

A Philippine Army soldier was wounded in an encounter with New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Sitio (sub-village) Inarado, Barangay Bugtong, Barcelona, Sorsogon, at about 2:30 p.m. Monday.

A police report identified the wounded Army member as Pfc. Arnulfo Copla, assigned with the PA’s 31st Infantry Battalion, who was rushed to the Sorsogon Doctors Hospital.

The report said the soldiers were on security patrol in the area when they met the group of NPA dissidents who were coming out of the village.

A 10-minute encountered ensued where Copla was wounded.

The rebels fled upon seeing the coming reinforcement from the government side.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=624331

Military on heightened alert in Northern Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Military on heightened alert in Northern Mindanao

The military has thrown a region wide security dragnet as it moved to a heightened alert following an attack on a police outpost in the nearby province of Davao Del Sur on Monday morning.

Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, on Tuesday said the entire military and police forces in Northern Mindanao were on full alert in anticipation of communist rebel attacks on military outposts in the region.

Uy said the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), will be commemorating its 45th founding anniversary on March 29, which usually preludes rebel attacks on military and police outposts.

Uy cited the attack on the Matanao Municipal Police Station in Davao Del Sur about 7:00 a.m. on Monday where two policemen were killed and three others wounded as the communist rebels desperate efforts to show their dwindling forces.

He said the communist rebels would always attack on military installations and the community of innocent civilians to pursue the group’s ideals of sowing terror.

The military, however, assures that the government troopers would always be around to secure the civilian community and its people, Uy added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=624437

2 RPA-ABB members shot dead in Negros town

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): 2 RPA-ABB members shot dead in Negros town

Two members of Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) were shot dead in Negros Occidental.

Report reaching here Tuesday morning identified the fatalities as Lenmar Pat, 34, and Jomar Torichilia, 33, both residents of Hacienda. Angelita in Brgy. Sag-ang, La Castellana,Negros Occidental.

The report said the shooting incident happened about 2:30 a.m. early Tuesday morning wherein the tagged suspect was identified as Carlo Apostol, a watchman of the hacienda.

Based on the investigation made by the La Castellana Philippine National Police, the suspect invited the two former New People’s Army break-away member for a drinking binge.

After the duo were already drunk and asleep, the suspect treacherously shot them dead.

The presently at -large suspect also carted away handguns of the two slain RPA-ABB members in his escape.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=624422

Army in NegOcc extra cautious as NPA anniversary approaches

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Army in NegOcc extra cautious as NPA anniversary approaches

The Philippine Army in Negros Occidental is taking extra precautions as the New People’s Army (NPA) marks its 45th anniversary on March 29.

Col. Jon Aying, commander of the Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade, said the Philippine Army and other government law enforcement forces are always on alert.

“But we will be extra cautious on that day,” he said.Aying was at the Capitol here to attend the Provincial Integration Peace and Development Unit planning workshop from March 11 to 12.

He said government forces have monitored movements of the NPA rebels as well as sightings in different areas in the province.

There also reports that the NPA rebels are out to mark their anniversary with possible attacks of soft targets like government installations and police stations well as army detachments.

Aying said the NPA’s strength has declined through the years with the Bayanihan approach of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in coordination with the local government units aimed at “freeing” the mass base of the NPA rebels from their influence.

Meanwhile, Aying said the planning workshop is also being attended by service providers and non-government organizations from the towns of Toboso and Calatrava and Escalante City in northern Negros.

Through the planning-workshop, the participants will identify the services that will be undertaken in the identified 22 communities located in the uplands of the three localities affected by armed conflict or lawlessness.

"They are going to come up with their action plan to address the problems in the community level,” Aying said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=624418

Army troopers repel lawless elements in Tanjay City

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Army troopers repel lawless elements in Tanjay City

Troopers from the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion successfully repelled an attack by lawless elements in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental Tuesday morning.

Major Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said the government security forces are conducting pursuit operations against the 15 New People's Army (NPA) members whom they earlier encountered in Barangay Bahian at around 6:45 a.m.

The five-minute firefight resulted in the recovery of one KG-9 submachine gun with fully loaded magazine and personal belongings.

Tiongson said that government forces sustained no casualties in the firefight, while the lawless band suffered an undetermined number of wounded and killed during their retreat.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624633

Families of slain, wounded soldiers to be succored --PA spokesman

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Families of slain, wounded soldiers to be succored --PA spokesman

The Philippine Army said on Tuesday the families of the soldiers slain and wounded during a series of encounters with rebel forces in Matanao town, Davao Del Sur Monday will be given appropriate assistance.

Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato, Army spokesperson, said that families or next-of-kin of the soldiers killed in battle will be given burial assistance amounting to P100,000 each.

Aside from this, relatives of the slain troopers will also be receiving P250,000 cash assistance from the Presidential Management Staff, in addition to other service benefits, Detoyato added.

Besides monetary aid, children of slain soldiers will also be given scholarship grants and other educational aid.

Meanwhile, those wounded severely will be receiving P100,000, while those who sustained minor injuries will get P50,000.

And depending on the recommendation of their unit commander, wounded personnel may be also given the "Wounded Medal Award" and those killed in action may be decorated with the "Military Merit Medal," "Gold Cross Medal" and "Distinguished Conduct Star."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624259

Eastern Mindanao Command chief dons rank to newly-promoted reservists

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Eastern Mindanao Command chief dons rank to newly-promoted reservists

Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Eastern Mindanao Command, personally donned the ranks of newly-promoted reservists on Monday at the command's headquarters in Davao City.

The newly-promoted reservist officer was Col. Marvin Manos while Major Hermenegildo Cardona Jr. took oath for his appointment from the AFP Reserve Force commander Brig. Gen. Quirino S. Calonzo.

Cruz congratulated Manos for his promotion and Maj. Cardona for his appointment.

“May this promotion and appointment further inspire you to work with us in the service for our people. We thank you for your enthusiasm to share your talents and skills in the name of the service. As doctors, you are mostly engaged in our respective careers, but still you can be peace agents even when not in military uniform,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624282

No violations found in 'Honor Committee' ruling ordering dismissal of Cudia

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): No violations found in 'Honor Committee' ruling ordering dismissal of Cudia

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Major Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. said on Tuesday the Philippine Military Academy Cadet Review and Appeals Board has found nothing irregular in the ruling of the "Honor Committee" which ordered the dismissal of Cadet First Class Aldrin Jeff Cudia for violations of the "Honor Code."

"I was informed by the superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy, Major Gen. Oscar Lopez, that he has already submitted to AFP general headquarters the result of the CRAB as regards the case of Cadet Cudia. The CRAB has looked into all the things as far as the case is concerned and has found regularity in the procedures that was followed from the time Cadet Cudia was reported for violation of the 'Honor Code' till the time the recommendation for dismissal was made," he added.

"Major Gen. Lopez made mentioned that they are reaffirming the first recommendation of the former superintendent as far as the dismissal of Cadet Cudia and by its conduct of review has found regularity in this and now has submitted a second recommendation for upholding the dismissal of Cadet Cudia, this review has been submitted to the (AFP) chief-of-staff dated March 10, 2014 and General Headquarters, AFP has already endorsed this with the same recommendation to the Office of the President through the office of the Secretary of National Defense," Tutaan stressed.

In effect, Cudia will not be joining PMA Class of 2014 during its graduation this coming March 16.

The AFP spokesperson declined to comment on what President Benigno S. Aquino III's decision on the Cudia case will be now that the matter is in the hands of the Chief Executive.

"His current status now is administratively discharged and placed on indefinite leave. He is not included anymore in the graduating class," PMA spokesperson Major Agnes Lynnette Flores earlier said.

Cudia was ordered dismissed after being found guilty of violating precepts of the PMA's "Honor Code."

The PMA earlier stated that all trainees of the institution are duty-bound to adhere to the above-mentioned precepts.

"The development of character and integrity among the cadets is a fundamental objective of the PMA," Flores stressed.

She added that the "Honor Code" and the "Honor System" are among the primary instruments in attaining this objective.

Flores said this is a unique system, which molds all the cadets to develop themselves into upright leaders of tomorrow.

"Members of the Cadet Corps, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP) are bound by the 'Honor Code' which they swore to uphold. The essence of the 'Honor Code' is that the cadets do not lie, cheat, steal nor tolerate among them those who do. The 'Honor Code' is absolute and it does not distinguish between the degree of the offense committed. Once they lied, cheated, stole or tolerated the commission of these offenses, there is only one punishment –- separation," the PMA public affairs office chief stressed.

"Cadet Cudia’s case is not an issue about being late in class. While it started as a violation of the regulations, which is coming to class late, the findings of the preliminary investigation conducted revealed a possibility of Cadet Cudia violating the 'Honor Code' which led to the opening of formal investigation by the 'Honor Committee'. While the Academy recognizes his academic performance, this does not exempt him from strict observance of the Code," she pointed out.

Flores stressed that the PMA has observed due process in the matter.

"As the breeding ground for future leaders of the AFP, PMA will continue to uphold the tenets of the 'Honor Code' which have been emplaced for generations. This code takes its roots within the heart and continues to live on long after each cadet graduates from the Philippine Military Academy. This binds the Cadet Corps with its alumni or the members of the long gray line," Flores stated.

While saddened by the turn of events, she stressed that the PMA cannot be selective in its application of the "Honor Code."

"We are deeply saddened in seeing such great talent go. But the PMA, and the Cadet Corps, in particular cannot be selective in its application of the Code regardless of a cadet’s academic performance and even personal circumstances," she said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624339

PHL calls China’s actions a 'clear and urgent threat' to its territorial rights; Protests move to block PHL vessels to Ayungin

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): PHL calls China’s actions a 'clear and urgent threat' to its territorial rights; Protests move to block PHL vessels to Ayungin

The Philippines on Tuesday called China’s recent act of blocking two Filipino vessels carrying naval personnel and provisions to Manila-controlled Ayungin Shoal off the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) a “clear and urgent threat” as it called on Beijing to stop interfering in its operations in its territory.

China’s acting ambassador was summoned to the Department of Foreign Affairs Tuesday morning to receive the Philippine government’s diplomatic protest, containing Manila’s “objection” to the Chinese action.

It was the second protest handed by the Philippines to China in two weeks. Last Feb. 25, the Philippines accused China of harassing a group of Filipino fishermen off the Scarborough Shoal – another Philippine-claimed feature in the West Philippine Sea - now under Chinese control after a standoff in 2012.

China’s actions constitute a clear and urgent threat to the rights and interests of the Philippines under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez told a press briefing.

The Philippines also demanded China to “desist from any further interference from the efforts of the Philippines to undertake rotation and re-supply operations at Ayungin Shoal.”

According to Hernandez, this is the first time that China prevented a Philippine supply mission and personnel rotation to Ayungin since it established a presence in the area 15 years ago.

An old Philippine Navy ship – the BRP Sierra Madre – has been grounded at the shoal since 1999. The Philippines posted seven navy personnel there to guard the territory, which is 105.77 nautical miles from the nearest Philippine province of Palawan and constitutes part of the country’s 200-nautical mile continental shelf as provided under the UNCLOS.

UNCLOS is a 1982 accord by 163 nations, including the Philippines and China – that aims to limit maritime boundaries of states.

China, in response, rejected the fresh protest lodged by the Philippines, insisting indisputable and sovereign claim over the shoal, also known by its international name as Second Thomas Shoal.

Based on a report provided to the DFA, Hernandez said the incident happened around 9:30 in the morning of March 9 wherein the two civilian vessels contracted by the Philippine Navy were trailed by two Chinese Coast Guard Vessels with numbers 3112 and 3113.

Thirty minutes later, the Chinese ships tried to block and prevent the Philippine vessels to proceed to Ayungin Shoal, Hernandez said.

At 12:40 p.m., the Chinese Coast Guard demanded the Philippine vessels through a digital signboard, sirens and megaphones “to leave the area,” saying it is “part of their jurisdiction.”

Then at 2:30 p.m., the Philippine vessels decided to abort the re-supply mission and the rotation of personnel in Ayungin Shoal and went back to Palawan, Hernandez said.

Part of the South China Sea within Manila’s territorial boundaries, have been renamed West Philippine Sea by the Philippine government to stressed its claim.

The strategic waters, where a bulk of the world’s trade pass, are said to be sitting atop huge oil and gas reserves and have been the subject of decades-long conflict among China, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.

All claimants have stationed military troops in their claimed areas, except Brunei.

China’s claim covered nearly the entire sea, citing ancient maps and documents to back its assertion.

The Philippines filed a case against China in 2013 before The Hague-based arbitral tribunal to denigrate China’s massive claim. The court will convene to hear Manila’s case soon as its written argument is submitted on or before its deadline on March 30.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624398

Eastern Mindanao Command to intensify operations in Davao del Sur boundaries

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Eastern Mindanao Command to intensify operations in Davao del Sur boundaries

To foil another possible New People's Army (NPA) infiltration attempts in Davao del Sur, the Eastern Mindanao Command has intensified its security operations in the boundaries of the province.

This was revealed Tuesday by Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, head of the military unit.

"We will intensify our operations in the boundaries of (Davao del Sur) in order to prevent the NPAs from infiltrating again," he said.

This is in wake of the series of rebel attacks which killed soldiers, three police officers and wounded nine troopers and policemen Monday in Matanao town

Cruz also said that criminal charges against these NPA rebels are now being readied.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624419

Names of Top 10 graduates of PMA Class of 2014 released

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11): Names of Top 10 graduates of PMA Class of 2014 released

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has released the names of the "Top 10" graduates of the PMA Class of 2014 Tuesday.

These cadets and their 213 comrades will be graduating this coming March 16.

Getting the No. 1 spot is Cadet First Class Jheorge Millena Llona, 22.

He will be joining the Air Force and will be awarded the following merits:

-Presidential Saber -Philippine Air Force Saber -Academic Group Award -Management Plaque -Air Force Professional Courses Plaque -JUSMAG Award -General Antonio Luna Award -Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.

Llona is a native of Maopi, Daraga, Albay.

While at No. 2 is Cadet First Class Liza Jumawid Dango, 25.

She is a resident of Cagayan De Oro City and will be joining Army upon graduation.

Dango will be presented the following awards:

-Vice Presidential Saber -Philippine Army Saber -Humanities Plaque -Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.

At No. 3 is Cadet First Class Billy Casibi Codiam, 25.

He will also be joining the Army.

Codiam is a native of Kalinga and will be awarded the following:

-Secretary of National Defense Saber -Social Sciences Plaque -Spanish Armed Forces Saber.

At No. 4 is Cadet First Class Leo Mac Callueng Tuliao, 21.

He will be joining the Air Force and is native of Cagayan.

At No. 5 is Cadet First Class Noel De Venecia Raguindin

The 24 Raguindin will be joining the Navy shortly after his graduation from the PMA.

He is a native of Pangasinan and will awarded the following:

-Philippine Navy Saber -Tactics Group Award

At No. 6 is Cadet First Class Carlito Christopher Pajarillo Agustin, 21

He also will be joining the Army.

Agustin is a native of Tuguegarao City.

At No. 7 is Cadet First Class Frank J. Anzale, 25.

He will be entering the Army upon graduation.

Anzale will be receiving the Natural Sciences Plaque.

At No. 8 is Cadet First Class King Kristian Dennis Marca Argoso.

The 22-year-old Argoso will be joining the Air Force.

He is a native of Gumaca, Quezon.

At No. 9 Cadet First Class Greg Philip Lesmoras Monsalud. He will be also joining the Navy.

The 24-year-old Cagayan De Oro Native will be receiving Navy Professional Courses Plaque.

While at No. 10 is Cadet First Class Alvin Kantala Balangcod, who will be also joining the Army.

The 21-year-old Benguet native will be receiving the Army Professional Courses Plaque upon graduation.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624458

13 ex-rebels received financial assistance from government

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): 13 ex-rebels received financial assistance from government

The 1002nd Infantry Brigade announced that 13 ex-rebels has received P845,000 worth of livelihood assistance from the government.

In a statement forwarded to the Philippines News Agency Wednesday, Capt. William Alfred T. Rodriquez, unit spokesperson, said that the money came from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Sarangani Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.

He added that the surrenderees consists of 11 men and two women.

Each of them were given P65,000, or a total of P845,000.

Out of this sum, P50,000 will be used for the surrenderees' long-term socio-economic assistance, which includes livelihood, capacity building, psycho-social healing and integration in their chosen communities, while the remaining P15,000 was allocated as immediate assistance, which includes food, medicine and transportation.

The former rebels will also given a one-year PhilHealth coverage reinforced by the Sarangani Provincial Health Office.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624527

Eastern Mindanao Command honors 7 soldiers killed in action

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Eastern Mindanao Command honors 7 soldiers killed in action

The Eastern Mindanao Command on Wednesday honored the seven soldiers of the 39th Infantry Battalion who were killed while defending Matanao town, Davao Del Sur from rebel attacks last Monday.

Capt. Ernest Carolina, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, and one of the field units attached to the command, said that a short mass was held at Camp Panacan, Davao City around 8:00 a.m.

After the mass, funeral honors were accorded to the fallen soldiers.

Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato, Army spokesperson, earlier said that families or next-of-kin of soldiers killed in battle will be given a burial assistance amounting to P100,000.

Aside from this, relatives of the slain troopers will also be receiving P250,000 cash assistance from the Presidential Management Staff.

This aside from other service benefits, Detoyato added.

Besides monetary aid, children of slain soldiers will also be given scholarship grants and other educational aid.

Meanwhile, those wounded severely will be receiving P100,000 while those who sustained minor injuries will be paid P50,000.

Depending on the recommendation of their unit commander, wounded personnel may be also given the "Wounded Medal Award" and those killed in action may be decorated with the "Military Merit Medal", "Gold Cross Medal" and "Distinguished Conduct Star".

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624530

Army troopers capture major NPA base in Misamis Occidental

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Army troopers capture major NPA base in Misamis Occidental

Troopers from the 15th Division Reconnaissance Company and 55th Infantry Battalion captured the main camp of the New People’s Army (NPA) under Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) in Bonifacio town, Misamis Occidental following a series of operations that started Monday and ended Tuesday afternoon.

The above-mentioned units are under the Zamboanga Del Sur-based 1st Infantry Division.

Capt. Jefferson Mamauag, 1st Infantry Division spokesperson, said the rebel base was captured following a series of encounters with rebel forces in Barangays Canao Canao and Mapurog.

He added that initial firefight started Monday around 10:00 a.m.

Mamauag stated that the last gun battle ended 4:30 p.m. Tuesday and this resulted in the capture of the WMRPC main camp located in a very defensible terrain.

The 1st Infantry Division spokesperson said the fleeing NPA fighters left behind their personal belongings, subversive documents, propaganda materials, foodstuff, one hand grenade, one K-G9 sub-machinegun, one sack of medical kit, assorted ammunition and electrical wirings, four blasting caps, detonator switch, six small radio and one cellphone used for making trigger devices for improvised explosive device or landmines.

The captured rebel base can can accommodate more or less 100 rebel fighters with 70 bunkers, four advance posts with water point and with enough space that can serve as basketball, volleyball with place for their teaching and training.

The military learned of the WMRPC main camp location from concerned residents long tired of the rebels' extortion and intimidation tactics.

Mamauag said one trooper was killed while five others were wounded in the series of operations.

He added that the NPA sustained an undetermined number of casualties and fatalities as evidenced on the blood trails uncovered in the nearby forests.

"As of now, names of the casualties are withheld pending the notification of next-of-kin. Clearing operations are still ongoing," he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624536

Farmer's son from Albay is PMA valedictorian

From Rappler (Mar 11): Farmer's son from Albay is PMA valedictorian
 
22-year-old Cadet First Class (CFC) Jheorge Millena Llona, who used to walk great distances to his elementary school, will be handed the Presidential Saber as valedictorian of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Siklab Diwa" Class of 2014.

Besides receiving the award from President Benigno Aquino III, Llona will also receive 6 other awards, including the Philippine Air Force Saber.

The son of a farmer, Nelson, from the rural barangay of Maopi in Daraga, Albay, Llona is graduating at the top of his class that numbers 222.

Encouraged by his brother, he joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps so he could get a scholarship in Bicol University. He took up accountancy but his ROTC training got in the way. Fortunately he was accepted at the PMA in his second year, even getting a full scholarship from the Commission on Higher Education.

Upon graduation, he will receive a Management plaque, a Jusmag award that will allow him to study in the US, and the Australian defense best overall performance award.

One classmate that will miss this year's graduation rites is CFC Aldrin Jeff Cudia who has been separated from the academy for breaching the academy's honor code.

The social media posts of Cudia's family alleged that he was dismissed for being two minutes late in class and exposed the confidential deliberation process in the academy.

Cudia's separation

Cudia was supposed to graduate salutatorian and receive the Navy saber as the top graduate of the Navy class.

PMA Superintendent Major General Oscar Lopez affirmed the recommendation of his predecessor Major General Edgar Abogado that Cudia be separated from the academy. (READ: Cudia will not graduate from PMA)

Lopez said that because Cudia has not presented any contrary evidence up to now, he had no choice but to affirm Abogado's recommendation. Separation from the academy is tantamount to expulsion.

Only President Aquino can save Cudia who, according to his family, was vying for salutatorian – until he was found to have violated the Honor Code.

In 2013, the son of a tuba gatherer, Jestony Lanaja of Davao del Sur was class valedictorian. He graduated at the top of his class which numbered 124. The year before, the son of a carpenter from Batangas, Tom Puertollano became class valedictorian.

Other top grads

CFC Liza Jumawid Dango, the only female in the Top 10, is class salutatorian. The daughter of a soldier, the Marawi-born cadette, studied in Cagayan de Oro. Being an army officer had been her dream since she was young, Dango said.

The rest of the Top 10 graduates include the following:
  • CFC Billy Codiam of Tanudan, Kalinga, who will join the Army. Like Llona, his father is also a farmer, while his mother is a government employee.
  • CFC Leo Mac Tuliao of PeƱablanca, Cagayan. The 21-year-old son of a farmer is one of the youngest in the graduating class.
  • CFC Noel de Venezia Raguindin of Dagupan City, who will join the Navy. While his mother is an OFW, his father tends to the family.
  • CFC Carleton Pajarillo Agustin, the son of government employees in Tuguegarao City.
  • CFC Frank Anzale of Babatngon, Leyte. He said it was his classmates who inspired him to persevere. It was the values of humility and optimism which helped him achieve his goals.
  • CFC King Christian Argoso of Gumaca, Quezon, who will join the Air Force. He is the family's first soldier.
  • CFC Greg Monsalud of Cagayan de Oro city. At one point he considered the seminary just so he could go to college for free.
  • CFC Alvin Balangcod of Kapangan, Benguet who used to work in a bakery until an accident paralyzed his hands. Luckily, he recovered.
Among the women, CFC Leonora Paulino garnered the other Australian defense best overall performance award. She joins Llona and Dango.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/52714-farmer-son-albay-pma-valedictorian

PH faces major hurdle in China case

From Rappler (Mar 12): PH faces major hurdle in China case

In the first place, should the arbitral tribunal hear the historic case?

Before anything else, the Philippines needs to clear this major hurdle – a question on jurisdiction – in its case against China over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

To attack the case, Chinese analysts argue that the arbitral tribunal lacks jurisdiction.

In a recent forum, Philippine Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza said the tribunal will rule on jurisdiction “together with the merits,” or the meat of its arguments.

Since China is unlikely to participate and prolong the case, the Philippines expects the ruling by 2015.

“We hope to win on both, that we have jurisdiction and they will approve all of our claims,” Jardeleza said.

The Philippines is set to submit its memorial, or written pleading in the case, by March 30.

Sources told Rappler that China offered incentives to stop the Philippines from doing this. Other observers warned that if the Philippines does, China is ready with its “sticks.”

'Tactically better off'

Jardeleza said the Philippines will discuss both jurisdiction and merits in its memorial.

In other arbitration proceedings, he said, parties “bifurcate” the case. This means they tackle jurisdiction first, then the merits. In these cases, he said the first question is: “Do you or do you not have jurisdiction? Indeed if there is no jurisdiction, there is no need to go into the merits.”

He said the Philippines “proposed to the tribunal that we do it together.” “We are tactically better off having both jurisdiction and merits,” he said.

Jardeleza explained the Philippines chose to do this because the country is “very strong on the merits.”

“If you have a very strong case, you do not talk about jurisdiction. You go to straight to the case,” he said.


“And then,” he added, “if you convince the judges that you're strong on the merits and our claim is just, then the issue of jurisdiction will be folded in as a win on the merits. That's the reason why while ordinarily, you go first for a question on jurisdiction, in the particular circumstances of this case, the legal team decided that we propose – and we were allowed – to discuss jurisdiction and the merits at the same time.”

Jardeleza said it ends up cheaper, too, “because then you just spend once on one memorial.” He declined to reveal the cost.

What China 'does not accept'

Chinese analysts, on the other hand, reject the tribunal's jurisdiction by citing a declaration China made on Aug 25, 2006.

In this declaration, China said it “does not accept” arbitral jurisdiction over certain disputes. One of the excluded disputes, which the Chinese often cite, involves sea boundary limitations.

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) allows such exclusions.

Philippine Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said disputes on maritime boundary delimitation arise from overlapping exclusive economic zones (EEZs), among others.

The EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from a country's baselines, or edges, within which a state has the sovereign rights to explore and exploit, and conserve and manage natural resources, among others.

It has everything to do about the right of Filipino fishermen to fish in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines claims China is violating this right every time it drives away Filipino fishermen there. (READ: PH protests China's moves in Ayungin Shoal)

While the EEZ lies at the heart of the Philippines' argument, Carpio said the arbitral tribunal has jurisdiction over the historic case. China, for one, “has no EEZ that overlaps with the Philippines' EEZ in the Scarborough area.” (READ: What's at stake in our case vs China)

He explained: “China’s baselines are either along the coast of Hainan Island, which is 580 NM from Luzon, or along the coast of mainland China, which is 485 NM miles from the Zambales coastline in Luzon facing Scarborough Shoal. Even if you grant the Chinese-held Paracels an EEZ, the Paracels are about 480 NM from Luzon. To have overlapping EEZs, the distance between the opposite baselines must be less than 400 NM. In the Scarborough area, there is no baseline in Luzon where its distance from the nearest Chinese baseline is less than 400 NM.”

Not among China's exceptions

In its Notification and Statement of Claim, the Philippines raises several points to prove the arbitral tribunal should hear the case.

The Philippines, for one, acknowledged the exceptions that China invoked in 2006.

It said none of the exceptions allowed by UNCLOS, however, “is applicable to the Philippines' claims in this arbitration.”

The country explained: “It follows that the Philippines' claims do not fall within China's Declaration of 25 August 2006, because they do not: concern the interpretation of Articles 15, 74, and 83 relating to sea boundary delimitations; involve historic bays or titles within the meaning of the relevant provisions of the Convention; concern military activities or law enforcement activities; or concern matters over which the Security Council is exercising functions assigned to it by the UN Charter.”

The Philippines' lawyer in its case against China, Paul Reichler, told Rappler he is confident the Philippines will win by 2015. (READ: PH lawyer on China: Being 'int'l outlaw' has its price)

“I will simply say that the entire legal team that has been engaged by the Philippines believes that the Philippines has a strong case, both on jurisdiction and on the merits,” Reichler said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/52764-philippines-china-arbitral-tribunal-jurisdiction

Cadet forced to vote vs Cudia - witness

From Rappler (Mar 11): Cadet forced to vote vs Cudia - witness

GRADUATING CLASS. The top 10 of Class 2014 Siklab Diwa excludes dismissed cadet Jeff Cudia. Photo by Dave Leprozo Jr

GRADUATING CLASS. The top 10 of Class 2014 Siklab Diwa excludes dismissed cadet Jeff Cudia. Photo by Dave Leprozo Jr

Dismissed Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Cadet First Class Aldrin Jeff Cudia found a witness to testify that he was a victim of a supposed mistrial by the Honor Committee. The original 8-1 vote was reportedly rigged to become a 9-0 unanimous vote against him.

Cudia failed to submit this new evidence, however, in time for his March 4 deadline. The PMA denied his motion to extend his deadline and then decided to uphold his dismissal on grounds that he lied about the reason he was late for one class.

Public Attorney's Office (PAO) chair Persida Acosta called up Rappler Tuesday night, March 11, to say her office is protesting the PMA's refusal to wait for Cudia's appeal, adding the gag order in the academy made it difficult for them to interview witnesses and gather evidence. She sent a copy of Cudia's new appeal. (The PAO provides free legal counsel to Filipinos who can't afford lawyers' fees.)

Commander Junjie Tabuanda of the Philippine Navy executed an affidavit detailing his conversation in January with Cadet First Class Lagura, who was in his office at the PMA headquarters in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City. Lagura is a member of the Honor Committee who, according to Tabuanda, originally voted to acquit Cudia. (The document does not provide Lagura's first name.)

Tabuanda said in his affidavit that Lagura was in his office in the morning of either January 23 or 24, giving him an opportunity to ask about Cudia's case.

Tabuanda's affidavit reads:
 
"When he was about to leave I called him, 'Lags, halika muna dito,' and he approached me and I let him sit down in the chair in front of my table. I told and asked him, 'Talagang nadali si Cudia ah…..ano ba ang nangyari? Mag-tagalog or mag-Bisaya ka?' He replied, 'Talagang NOT GUILTY ang vote ko sa kanya sir,' and I asked him, 'oh, bakit naging guilty di ba pag may isang nag NOT GUILTY, abswelto na?' He replied 'Chinamber ako sir, bale pinapa-justify kung bakit NOT GUILTY vote ko, at na-pressure din ako sir kaya binago ko, sir.' So, I told him, 'sayang sya, matalino at mabait pa naman' and he replied 'oo nga sir.' After that conversation, I let him go.” (I asked him about what happened to Cudia. He said I voted not guilty, sir. I asked, but if you voted not guilty, shouldn't he been acquitted then? He replied: I was put in chambers and was asked to justify my not guilty vote. I was pressured to change my vote, which was what I did, sir.)

Under PMA rules, a unanimous vote by the Honor Committee is needed to require a cadet to resign. The committee is composed entirely of cadets. Its proceedings are confidential and its decisions are usually final. This system however has been subjected to various controversies. (READ: Ex-AFP chief's son 'violated' code, managed to graduate)

Cudia's appeal, which he failed to submit to the PMA because he sought for an extension, named Honor Committee chairman Cadet First Class Mogol as the one who ordered, after the initial 8-1 vote, to "go to a secret room."

After their closed-door meeting, the verdict became 9-0, Cudia's camp said.

Cudia argued that the original 8-1 vote absolved him of charges of violating the Honor Code, which compels cadets not to lie or cheat.

Grave abuse

The rules of the Honor Committee are not clear. There are alumni who claimed that there have been changes in the honor system that allow for a second voting in a tight case.

If it were a 5-4 vote, for example, a second voting is not required. An 8-1 vote, however, would merit a second voting, they said.

Acosta said the affidavit is a new piece of evidence that the PMA should consider. She intends to bring the appeal to MalacaƱang and the Armed Forces general headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo.

The PAO argued that the Honor Committee "gravely abused its discretion when it chambered one of its voting members."

It added the committee also abused its discretion when "it failed to consider the explanation of Dr Costales," the instructor who made Cudia wait after class and subsequently caused him to be late in the next class.

Acosta is calling on the PMA to continue its review of Cudia's case. Convinced that Cudia should not be expelled, Acosta said they may bring the case to the court.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/52756-witness-honor-committee-pma

PHL protests China's shooing away of 2 boats on Ayungin Shoal

From InterAksyon (mar 11): PHL protests China's shooing away of 2 boats on Ayungin Shoal

Acting on a report by its military, the Philippine government has protested China’s recent act of shooing away Philippine boats on Ayungin Shoal, calling Beijing's acts a "clear and urgent threat" to the country's rights.

"Ayungin Shoal is part of the continental shelf of the Philippines and therefore the Philippines is entitled to exercise sovereignty rights and jurisdiction in the area without the permission of other States. Furthermore, the civilian vessels contracted by the Philippine Navy were only conducting rotation of personnel and resupply operations," said a statement issued Tuesday (March 11) by the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The DFA said China’s actions "constitute a clear and urgent threat to the rights and interests of the Philippines under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)."

he DFA summoned the Chinese Charge d’Affaires Tuesday afternoon to a note verbale to express the government’s objection to China’s actions and urged China "to desist from any further interference with the efforts of the Philippines to undertake rotation and resupply operations at the Ayungin Shoal."

China said on Monday that its coast guard ships had driven away two Filipino vessels that tried to approach a shoal in the South China Sea, which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea, in the latest flare-up of a long-running territorial dispute, said an earlier Reuters report.

The Chinese ships were patrolling waters around Second Thomas Shoal, known in China as the Ren'ai reef, when they spotted the boats, carrying construction materials and Philippine flags, which left the area after being warned off, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said. The incident happened on Sunday, he added.

Qin said that China had repeatedly demanded the Philippines remove a ship that had been grounded on the shoal in 1999, but that Manila had cited technical reasons for being unable to do so.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/82472/phl-protests-chinas-shooing-away-of-2-boats-on-ayungin-shoal

Who are the Top 10 graduates of PMA Class of 2014?

From InterAksyon (Mar 12): Who are the Top 10 graduates of PMA Class of 2014?



The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has released the names of the "Top 10" graduates of the PMA Class of 2014 Tuesday.

These cadets and their 213 comrades will be graduating this coming March 16.
Getting the No. 1 spot is Cadet First Class Jheorge Millena Llona, 22, and a native of Maopi, Daraga, Albay.

Llona will be joining the Air Force and will be awarded the following merits: Presidential Saber, Philippine Air Force Saber, Academic Group Award, Management Plaque, Air Force Professional Courses Plaque, JUSMAG Award, General Antonio Luna Award, and Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.
While at No. 2 is Cadet First Class Liza Jumawid Dango, 25.

She is a resident of Cagayan De Oro City and will be joining the Army upon graduation.

Dango will be presented the following awards: Vice Presidential Saber, Philippine Army Saber, Humanities Plaque, and Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.

At No. 3 is Cadet First Class Billy Casibi Codiam, 25, and a native of Kalinga.
He will also be joining the Army.

Codiam will be awarded the following: Secretary of National Defense Saber, Social Sciences Plaque,  and Spanish Armed Forces Saber.

At No. 4 is Cadet First Class Leo Mac Callueng Tuliao, 21.

He will be joining the Air Force and is native of Cagayan.

At No. 5 is Cadet First Class Noel De Venecia Raguindin
The 24-year-old Raguindin will be joining the Navy shortly after his graduation from the PMA.

He is a native of Pangasinan and will awarded the following: Philippine Navy Saber, and Tactics Group Award.

At No. 6 is Cadet First Class Carlito Christopher Pajarillo Agustin, 21
A native of Tuguegarao City, Agustin also will be joining the Army.
At No. 7 is Cadet First Class Frank J. Anzale, 25.

He will be entering the Army upon graduation.

Anzale will be receiving the Natural Sciences Plaque.

At No. 8 is Cadet First Class King Kristian Dennis Marca Argoso, who hails from Gumaca, Quezon

The 22-year-old Argoso will be joining the Air Force.

At No. 9 is Cadet First Class Greg Philip Lesmoras Monsalud. He will be also joining the Navy.
The 24-year-old Cagayan De Oro native will be receiving the Navy Professional Courses Plaque.

At No. 10 is Cadet First Class Alvin Kantala Balangcod, who will be also joining the Army.

The 21-year-old Benguet native will be receiving the Army Professional Courses Plaque upon graduation.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/82512/who-are-the-top-10-graduates-of-pma-class-of-2014

Kidnappers free Filipina teacher

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Mar 11): Kidnappers free Filipina teacher





Freed teacher Cathy Mae Casipong together with Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Isabelle Salazar in this photo posted on the politician's Facebook account and an advisory from City Hall on the woman's safe release on March 11, 2014.
Kidnappers have freed late Tuesday a government teacher they seized in Zamboanga City after three months in captivity in southern Philippines, officials said.

Officials said Cathy Casipong, who was seized by 10 gunmen in December, had been freed in Ipil town in Zamboanga Sibugay province. Casipong, who teaches at the Sibogtok Elementary School in Limaong Island, was immediately recovered by security forces after her family informed authorities of her release.

It was unknown if ransom has been paid to the kidnappers in exchange for Casipong’s freedom. She was brought to the army brigade headquarters in Ipil town where she is reunited with her family.

Capt. Jefferson Mamauag, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, said Casipong was freed at a bus terminal in Ipil.“The safe release of the kidnapped victim was done through the efforts of the military and police,” he told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Isabelle Salazar also confirmed the release of Casipong and said the teacher will have to undergo medical treatment. Salazar gave no further details about Casipong’s release.

“Mayor Climaco officially confirms the release of kidnapped teacher Cathy Casipong at 6:40 p.m. in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. This is the fruit of coordination of all concerned. Per instruction of the City Mayor, Casipong will need to have a medical treatment and will allow her to rest.”

“This is the new protocol she has set up that a victim be made to undergo medical check up, rest and debriefing and spend time with the family. We are very thankful to the police and the military and all those who have helped and we continue to support the safety of teachers as vital tools to the education of our children particularly in island barangays,” an advisory from Zamboanga City Hall said.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/03/kidnappers-free-filipina-teacher.html

NPA rebels own up deadly attacks in Philippines; vow to strike at plantations, mining firms

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Mar 11): NPA rebels own up deadly attacks in Philippines; vow to strike at plantations, mining firms



Communist rebels have owned up to daring and deadly attacks on police and military targets in the southern Philippines that killed at least a dozen people.

Dencio Madrigal, a spokesman for the New People's Army-Valentine Palamine Command, said the attacks on a police base and military forces in Davao del Sur’s Matanao town was a punishment for their “reign of terror” against indigenous tribes and other communities opposing mining operations in the province.

“The March 10 police headquarters raid and ambush demonstrated the NPA’s determination to punish the fascist AFP and PNP units operating in Davao del Sur and its boundaries. The 39th Infantry Battalion remains as security forces and fascist thugs of Glencore Xstrata - a mining giant poised to continue to exploit the nearly 100,000 hectares of mining-rich ancestral lands of Lumad Blaans and peasants in the region.”

“The AFP and PNP units in Matanao and other towns in Davao del Sur deserved to be disarmed and punished because in their defense of Xstrata mining, they have killed, injured, discharged aerial bombs, all part of their reign of terror against the Lumad and settlers communities who have fiercely battled against mining since 1992 when the project was still under the Western Mining Corporation,” Madrigal said in a statement sent to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

Madrigal said rebel forces seized seven M16 automatic rifles and several ammunition vests, two 9 mm pistols, one .45-caliber pistol, and a radio communication set from the police headquarters. He said the raid left 3 policemen and two other lawmen were killed in the fighting that also left two rebels dead.

He also accused the police of coddling drug pushers and other criminal syndicates in the province. “They are, thus, legitimate targets of the people’s army at any time of the year,” he said.

Madrigal also condemned the arrest of 9 innocent civilians on suspicion they were part of the NPA forces that attacked in Matanao town. “Their failure at intelligence work, notwithstanding, the Matanao PNP trained its eyes against nine hapless civilians, namely, Renante Urot, Joey Alberca, Rufoboy Gama, Laudemer Gama, Noel Morangit, Roger Natonton, Julio Sales, John Rey Pabillo and Christopher Sales.”

“The police tagged them as NPA members and arrested the group after the raid, at 7 in the morning. The civilians were on their way to attend a fiesta at Barangay Savoy in Matanao when they were illegitimately arrested,” he said.

Madrigal said 9 soldiers were also killed, including Lt. Ludevico Alejo; and 7 more wounded after rebels remotely detonated a military truck carrying reinforcements in the village of Asbang.  He also dismissed allegations by the Eastern Mindanao Command that the NPA has been using landmines.

“It is hypocritical for the Philippine government and the AFP to condemn the NPA’s continued use of command detonated explosives as the latter's main weapon of choice for guerrilla warfare. The country’s mining laws and the state’s counter-insurgency policy, the Oplan Bayanihan, have resulted in the massive and indiscriminate pillage of resources, killings, and displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilian communities,” he said, adding mining companies are legitimate target of the NPA.

NPA targets

Jorge Madlos, a regional rebel spokesman, has previously warned mining firms and fruit plantations in the southern Philippines.

“Military operations in Mindanao have escalated and have become more extensive with the aim to thwart the ever growing and widespread people’s protest against destructive mining operations and plantations owned by imperialists, the big comprador bourgeois and big landlords. “

“After having ravaged the environment by way of wanton logging, imperialists and the local ruling clique insidiously intend to inflict even greater devastation to the environment; and, to deprive, oppress and exploit further the Lumads, Moro, peasants and workers in order to satiate their greed for super profit,” he said.

Madlos said aming their targets are Russell Mines and Minerals, Apex Mining Corp. and Philco in southern Mindanao; Dolefil, Del Monte and Sumifru plantations in northern Mindanao; TVI Resource Development Philippines whose operations in ancestral domain of indigenous Subanen and Moro tribes are being opposed by the rebel group.

“If one recalls, more than 400 families were forced to evacuate their ancestral lands because of TVI and the ruthless military operations that ensued to protect it in Buug, Zamboanga del Sur. In order to defend the people’s human rights and general wellbeing, the NPA launched tactical offensives against TVI as well as against units of the AFP-PNP-CAFGU protecting it, such as the ambush on February 2012 that hit elements of the army intelligence group operating on the behest of TVI and the imposition of the local government to allow TVI mining operations on Subanen ancestral lands is one of the bases the NPA raided on April 9, 2012 the PNP station in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur,” Madlos said.

NPA rebels also intercepted a group of army soldiers who were using a borrowed truck from TVI and disarmed them in Diplahan town in Zamboanga Sibugay province two years ago. The rebels also burned the truck before releasing the soldiers.

“In view of these events, the NDFP in Mindanao calls upon the Lumad and Moro peoples, peasants and workers, religious and other sectors to further strengthen their unity and their courage to oppose the interests of imperialist mines and plantations, which are exceedingly damaging to Mindanao, to its people and to the environment. We call upon the units of the NPA in Mindanao to be ever more daring in their defense of people’s interests against the greed and rapacity of the local ruling classes and their imperialist master,” Madlos said.

TVI Resource Development Philippines has repeatedly denied all accusations against them. It recently ended its gold mining operation in Mount Canatuan in Zamboanga del Norte’s Siocon town after several years of operations and now has a gold-silver project in the town of Bayog in Zamboanga del Sur province and a nickel plant in Agusan del Norte province.

It is among mining companies operating in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte that had been attacked in the past by Muslim and communist rebels.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/03/npa-rebels-own-up-deadly-attacks-in.html